Prevertebral soft tissue swelling after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with plate fixation

Lateral Deviation of the Hyoid Bone and Thyroid Cartilage Influences Prevertebral Soft-Tissue Swelling and Dysphagia After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Prevertebral soft-tissue swelling (PSTS) after anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF) is known to be influenced by several factors. We considered the effect of lateral deviation on the traction force and attempted to find a relationship with the PSTS. This study was designed to evaluate the preoperative lateral deviation of the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage and its effect on PSTS, airway collapse, and clinical outcomes after ACDF.

METHODS

Preoperative lateral deviations of the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage at the superior cornu and inferior cornu were measured. To assess the effect of lateral deviation, patients who underwent 1 or 2 level ACDF with the left-sided approach were divided into a deviation group (left-sided deviation >5 mm or >10 mm) and a nondeviation group (left-sided deviation <5 mm or <10 mm). Difference of preoperative and postoperative PSTS (dPSTS), airway collapse, dysphagia score, and Neck Disability Index were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Lateral deviation was measured in 290 patients, and 145 were enrolled to assess the effect of lateral deviation. Left-sided deviation was more common than right-sided deviation in all 3 structures (the hyoid bone, superior cornu, and inferior cornu of the thyroid cartilage). The deviation group demonstrated a significantly larger dPSTS at the C3 and C4 levels, more airway collapse at the C4 level, and a higher dysphagia score. There was no significant difference in the Neck Disability Index between the 2 groups. Lateral deviation significantly correlated with dPSTS (C3, C4, C5, and C6 levels) and airway collapse (C3 and C4 levels).

CONCLUSION

A left-sided deviation of more than 5 mm of the hyoid bone or thyroid cartilage discouraged the left-sided approach for ACDF because of the aggravation of dPSTS, airway collapse, and dysphagia postoperatively.

Does Operative Level Impact Dysphagia Severity After Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?: A Multicenter Prospective Analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective multicenter cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the association between operative level and postoperative dysphagia after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia is common after ACDF and has several risk factors, including soft tissue edema. The degree of prevertebral soft tissue edema varies based on the operative cervical level. However, the operative level has not been evaluated as a source of postoperative dysphagia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Adult patients undergoing elective ACDF were prospectively enrolled at 3 academic centers. Dysphagia was assessed using the Bazaz Questionnaire, Dysphagia Short Questionnaire, and Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) preoperatively and at 2, 6, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively. Patients were grouped based on the inclusion of specific surgical levels in the fusion construct. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to evaluate the independent effects of the number of surgical levels and the inclusion of each particular level on dysphagia symptoms.

RESULTS

A total of 130 patients were included. Overall, 24 (18.5%) patients had persistent postoperative dysphagia at 24 weeks and these patients were older, female, and less likely to drink alcohol. There was no difference in operative duration or dexamethasone administration. Patients with persistent dysphagia were significantly more likely to have C4-C5 included in the fusion construct (62.5% vs . 34.9%, P = 0.024) but there were no differences based on the inclusion of other levels. On multivariable regression, the inclusion of C3-C4 or C6-C7 was associated with more severe EAT-10 (β: 9.56, P = 0.016 and β: 8.15, P = 0.040) and Dysphagia Short Questionnaire (β: 4.44, P = 0.023 and (β: 4.27, P = 0.030) at 6 weeks. At 12 weeks, C3-C4 fusion was also independently associated with more severe dysphagia (EAT-10 β: 4.74, P = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

The location of prevertebral soft tissue swelling may impact the duration and severity of patient-reported dysphagia outcomes at up to 24 weeks postoperatively. In particular, the inclusion of C3-C4 and C4-C5 into the fusion may be associated with dysphagia severity.

Postoperative Airway Management after Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Retrospective Neurosurgical Multicenter Study

Airway complications that occur after anterior cervical spine surgery pose a life-threatening risk, which encompasses complications including prolonged intubation, unplanned reintubation, and/or necessity of tracheostomy. The present study aimed to identify the surgical risks associated with postoperative airway complications in neurosurgical training institutes. A retrospective, multicenter, observational review of data from 365 patients, who underwent anterior cervical spine surgery between 2018 and 2022, at three such institutes was carried out. Postoperative airway complication was defined as either the need for prolonged intubation on the day of surgery or the need for unplanned reintubation. The perioperative medical information was obtained from their medical records. The average age of the cohort was over 60 years, with males comprising approximately 70%. Almost all surgeries predominantly involved anterior cervical discectomy and fusion or anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion, with most surgeries occurring at the level of C5/6. In total, 363 of 365 patients (99.5%) were extubated immediately after surgery, and the remaining two patients were kept under intubation because of the risk of airway complications. Of the 363 patients who underwent extubation immediately after surgery, two (0.55%) required reintubation because of postoperative airway complications. Patients who experienced airway complications were notably older and exhibited a significantly lower body mass index. The results of this study suggested that older and frailer individuals are at an elevated risk for postoperative airway complications, with immediate postoperative extubation generally being safe but requiring careful judgment in specific cases.

Anterior Percutaneous Full-Endoscopic Transcorporeal with Single-Incision Treatment for Noncontiguous 2-Level Cervical Disc Herniation: Technical Report and Early Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

Noncontiguous 2-level cervical disc herniation (NCT-CDH) is a common condition that often requires surgical intervention. In this study, we developed a surgical approach for the treatment of NCT-CDH using anterior percutaneous full-endoscopic single incision through the vertebral body. We provide a brief overview of its safety, efficacy, and feasibility, along with a description of our relevant surgical experience.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted, involving 30 patients who were followed up for at least 12 months. Preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale, Japanese Orthopedic Association scores, Nurick scores, intervertebral disc height, and modified Macnab criteria were recorded. Patients underwent regular radiological evaluations throughout the follow-up period.

RESULTS

Postoperative computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and X-ray examinations revealed bone tunnel healing, intact drilled vertebral bodies without collapse, adequate decompression of the spinal canal, and normal cervical mobility. There was a significant improvement in postoperative visual analog scale, Japanese Orthopedic Association scores, Nurick scores, and modified Macnab criteria compared to the preoperative values (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed that the anterior percutaneous full-endoscopic transcorporeal with single-incision treatment for NCT-CDH is a safe and feasible surgical method. Therefore, it can be considered as a viable treatment option for patients with NCT-CDH.

Effect of Furosemide on Prevertebral Soft Tissue Swelling after Anterior Cervical Fusion: A Comparative Study with Dexamethasone

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of furosemide on prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PSTS) after anterior cervical fusion (ACF) and compare it with the effect of dexamethasone.

OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE

Postoperative PSTS is a common complication of ACF. Dexamethasone has been used for its treatment; however, its efficacy remains controversial. Furosemide may reduce PSTS if it is soft tissue edema; however, no studies have demonstrated the effect of furosemide on PSTS after ACF.

METHODS

The symptomatic PSTS group received intravenous (IV) administration of dexamethasone or furosemide. The asymptomatic PSTS group did not receive any medication. Patients were divided into the control (no medication, n=31), Dexa (IV dexamethasone, n=25), and Furo (IV furosemide, n=28) groups. PSTS was checked daily with simple radiographs and medication-induced reductions in PSTS from its peak or after medication.

RESULTS

The peak time (postoperative days) of PSTS in the control (2.27±0.47, p<0.05) and Dexa (1.91±0.54, p<0.01) groups were significantly later than that in the Furo group (1.38±0.74). PSTS was significantly lower in the Furo group than in the Dexa group from postoperative days 4 to 7 (p<0.05). PSTS reduction after the peak was significantly greater in the Furo group than in the control (p<0.01) and Dexa (p<0.01) groups. After starting the medication therapy, the Furo group showed a significantly greater reduction in PSTS than the Dexa group (p<0.01). No difference was found in symptom improvement among the three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

If furosemide is used to reduce PSTS after ACF, it can effectively reduce symptoms.

Biomechanical evaluation of the novel assembled internal fixed system in C2-C3 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a finite element analysis

BACKGROUND

To analyze and compare the biomechanical characteristics of the new combined cervical fusion device (NCCFD) and the traditional cage-plate construct (CPC) to ascertain its effectiveness in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) using finite element analysis.

METHODS

A finite element model of the cervical spine, inclusive of the occipital bone was created and validated. In the ACDF model, either CPC or NCCFD was implanted at the C2-C3 segment of the model. A pure moment of 1.0 Nm combined with a follower load of 50 N was directed onto the superior surfaces of the occipital bone to determine flexion, extension, lateral bending (left and right), and axial rotation (left and right). The range of motion (ROM), stress distribution at the bone-implant interface, and facet joint forces were investigated and compared between CPC and NCCFD systems.

RESULT

The results showed that the ROMs of the fused levels in both models were nearly zero, and the motions of the unfused segments were similar. In addition, the maximum displacement exhibited nearly identical values for both models. The maximum stress of NCCFD screws in lateral bending and rotational conditions is significantly higher than that of the CPC, while the NCCFD model's maximum stress remains within an acceptable range. Comparing the maximum fusion stress, it was found that the CPC experiences much lower fusion stress in anterior flexion and extension than the NCCFD, with no significant difference between the two in lateral bending and rotational states. Stress on the cage was mainly concentrated on both sides of the wings. Comparing the maximum IDP in the CPC and NCCFD, it was observed that maximum stresses rise in extension and lateral bending for both models. Lastly, stress distributions of the facet joints were generally similar across the two devices.

CONCLUSION

NCCFD not only provides the same level of biomechanical stability as CPC but also avoids postoperative complications associated with uneven force damage to the implant. The device offers a novel surgical alternative for ACDF in C2-C3 level.

Percutaneous Endoscopic Posterior Lateral Approach for the Treatment of Central Cervical Disc Herniation

BACKGROUND

To design percutaneous endoscopic surgery via a posterolateral approach for the treatment of central cervical disc herniation.

METHODS

From October 2019 to October 2020, 12 consecutive patients with central cervical disc herniation underwent percutaneous endoscopic posterior lateral cervical surgery. The imaging examination (dynamic X-ray, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine) was conducted after the operation. Visual analog scale score and the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association score was performed before and after the operation.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (6 men and 6 women; mean age 52.08 ± 9.3 years) were included, and the average operation time was 105.00 ± 10.55 minutes. Postoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging results showed that the treatment segment of all patients was prominent, the cervical intervertebral disc was completely removed, the cervical spinal cord was fully decompressed, and there were no cases of infection, cerebrospinal fluid leakage or neurological complications. The average follow-up time after the operation was 22.83 ± 3.13 months. One year after the operation, there was no cervical instability in the X-ray examination of cervical flexion and extension position. Preoperative visual analog scale score and the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association score were significantly improved at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous endoscopic posterior lateral cervical discectomy provides a new surgical method for the endoscopic treatment of central cervical disc herniation. This treatment has a better surgical field and easier operation, which can remove the protruding cervical disc under the endoscope and make sure that the cervical spinal cord is fully decompressed. The clinical effect is satisfactory. A small amount of pedicle resection will not cause cervical instability.

Anterior cervical X-shape-corpectomy and fusion vs. anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion for two-level cervical spondylosis

PURPOSE

Anterior cervical X-shape-corpectomy and fusion (ACXF) is a novel cervical surgery, designed as partial alternative to the classic technique, anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF). The aim of this study was to evaluate the early-stage outcomes of ACXF in treating two-level cervical spondylosis (CS) through comparisons with ACCF.

METHODS

A retrospectively comparative study was conducted in two cohorts of patients who underwent single-vertebral ACXF or ACCF to treat two-level CS during September 2019 and October 2021. Clinical and radiological data of all the patients were collected from pre-operation to 1 year after the surgery, following by intra- and intergroup analyses and comparisons.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients were included, with 24 undergoing ACXF and 33 undergoing ACCF. ACXF group had significantly shorter drainage duration (2.13 ± 0.61 days vs. 3.48 ± 1.30 days, P < 0.001) and less drainage volume (30.21 ± 26.88 ml vs. 69.30 ± 37.65 ml, P < 0.001) than ACCF group. Both techniques significantly improved all the clinical parameters (P < 0.01) with comparable effects (P > 0.05). Each complication rate in ACXF group was lower than that in ACCF group without significant difference (P > 0.05). ACXF showed a significantly smaller transverse decompression range than ACCF (11.93 ± 1.27 mm vs. 16.29 ± 1.88 mm, P < 0.001). Postoperatively, ACXF yielded a comparable fusion rate (P > 0.05) and a significantly lower subsidence rate (P < 0.01) than ACCF technique at all time points.

CONCLUSIONS

ACXF is a potential surgical alternative for certain patients with two-level CS, as it provides both adequate decompression range and fewer adverse events than ACCF. The further modifications on ACXF worth exploration.

Postoperative Measurement of the Retropharyngeal Space Predicts the Risk of Dysphagia After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Postoperative dysphagia is a common complication of anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF), although its pathophysiology remains poorly understood. Patients with severe dysphagia may suffer from serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia, in addition to difficulty with oral intake or malnutrition; therefore, a prompt indicator for postoperative management would be helpful. We quantitatively evaluated the retropharyngeal space (RS) after ACDF and investigated its association with postoperative dysphagia.

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study analyzed the clinical data of 82 consecutive patients who underwent ACDF. The anteroposterior distance (APD) of the RS was measured at the C2 level using a lateral radiographic view on postoperative day 1. Postoperative dysphagia was subjectively assessed using the Bazaz-Yoo Dysphagia Severity Scale. We statistically evaluated the association between the APD of the RS and postoperative dysphagia.

RESULTS

The mean APD of the RS in all 82 patients was 3.6 mm preoperatively and significantly increased to 8.2 mm postoperatively (P < .0001). Twenty-two patients (26.8%) had postoperative dysphagia. Multivariable analysis revealed that the postoperative APD was associated with postoperative dysphagia (odds ratio 1.27, 95% CI 1.10-1.50, P = .0007). The receiver operating characteristic curve (area under the curve 0.70, 95% CI 0.58-0.83) demonstrated that the postoperative APD of the RS cutoff value was 6.1 mm, with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 35%. With this cutoff value, the positive and negative predictive values for postoperative dysphagia were 36% and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that a value of 6.1 mm for the APD of the RS is an effective indicator for dysphagia after ACDF, which contributes to optimizing the patient management in the acute postoperative period.

Risk Factors for Prevertebral Soft Tissue Swelling Following Single-Level Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery

OBJECTIVE

Anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS) is a common surgical procedure used to treat cervical spinal degenerative diseases. One of the complications associated with ACSS is prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PSTS), which can result in airway obstruction, dysphagia, and other adverse outcomes. This study aims to investigate the correlation between various cervical sagittal parameters and PSTS following single-level ACSS, as well as to identify independent risk factors for PSTS.

METHODS

A retrospective study conducted at a single institution. The study population included all patients who underwent single-level ACSS between January 2014 and December 2022. Patients with a history of cervical spine surgery or trauma were excluded from the study. The presence and severity of PSTS was assessed by reviewing pre- and postoperative imaging studies. The potential risk factors for PSTS that were examined include patient age, sex, body mass index, tobacco use, comorbidities, serum albumin levels, operative time, implant type, implanted level, and various cervical spine sagittal parameters. Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to identify the independent risk factors for PSTS.

RESULTS

A total of 62 consecutive patients who underwent single-level ACSS over a 8-year period at a single institution were enrolled in this study. Only preoperative segmental angle showed positive correlation with PSTS among various cervical spine sagittal parameters (r=0.36, p=0.005). Artificial disc replacement showed a negative correlation with PSTS (β=-0.38, p=0.002), whereas the use of demineralized bone matrix (DBM) had a positive impact on PSTS (β=0.33, p=0.009). We found that male sex, lower preoperative serum albumin, and implantation of upper cervical level (above C5) were independent predictors for PSTS after single-level ACSS (β=1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.27 to 2.15; p=0.012; β=-1.63; 95% CI, -2.91 to -0.34; p=0.014; β=1.44; 95% CI, 0.38 to 2.49; p=0.008, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our study identified male sex, lower preoperative serum albumin levels, and upper cervical level involvement as independent risk factors for PSTS after single-level ACSS. These findings can help clinicians monitor high-risk patients and take preventive measures to reduce complications. Further research with larger sample sizes and prospective designs is needed to validate these findings.

Risk Factors for Unexpected Conversion From Ambulatory to Inpatient Admission Among One-level or Two-level ACDF Patients

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

A retrospective observational study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with the conversion of patient status from ambulatory anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) to inpatient.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Surgeries are increasingly performed in an ambulatory setting in an era of rising healthcare costs and pressure to improve patient satisfaction. ACDF is a common ambulatory cervical spine surgery, however, there are certain patients who are unexpectedly converted from an outpatient procedure to inpatient admission and little is known about the risk factors for conversion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent one-level or two-level ACDF in an ambulatory setting at a single specialized orthopedic hospital between February 2016 to December 2021 were included. Baseline demographics, surgical information, complications, and conversion reasons were compared between patients with ambulatory surgery or observational stay (stay <48 h) and inpatient (stay >48 h).

RESULTS

In total, 662 patients underwent one-level or two-level ACDF (median age, 52 yr; 59.5% were male), 494 (74.6%) patients were discharged within 48 hours and 168 (25.4%) patients converted to inpatient. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that females, low body mass index <25, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification (ASA) ≥3, long operation, high estimated blood loss, upper-level surgery, two-level fusion, late operation start time, and high postoperative pain score were considered independent risk factors for conversion to inpatient. Pain management was the most common reason for the conversion (80.0%). Ten patients (1.5%) needed reintubation or remained intubated for airway management.

CONCLUSIONS

Several independent risk factors for prolonged hospital stay after ambulatory ACDF surgery were identified. Although some factors are unmodifiable, other factors, such as procedure duration, operation start time, and blood loss could be potential targets for intervention. Surgeons should be aware of the potential for life-threatening airway complications in ambulatory-scheduled ACDF.

The role of prevertebral soft tissue swelling in dysphagia after anterior cervical corpectomy fusion: change trends and risk factors

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to analyze the change trends of prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PSTS) for anterior cervical corpectomy fusion(ACCF) and to evaluate the risk factors of PSTS for postoperative dysphagia.

METHODS

There were 309 patients with degenerative cervical diseases who were treated with ACCF from November 2015 and September 2019 in our hospital. According to the symptom of swallowing function after ACCF, those were divided into the dysphagia group and the normal-swallowing function group. Cervical computed tomography(CT) was analyzed, and radiological evaluation of the prevertebral soft tissue was measured between the antero-inferior corner of each vertebral body and the air shadow of the airway through CT mid-sagittal slice images before operation and after operation(one week, one month, eight months and twelve months).

RESULTS

The incidence of dysphagia after ACCF was 41.1%. 120 of 127(94.5%) patients had dysphagia disappeared at the 8 months after ACCF, and all disappeared at the 12 months. In both groups, PSTS would be biggest at 1 week postoperatively comparing to the preoperative, and then get smaller from 1 week to 12 months postoperatively (p < 0.05). After 12 months of operation, the PSTS of all cervical spinal levels would get equal to the preoperative size in the normal-swallowing function group, while the PSTS in dysphagia group would get equal only in C5-7 levels. The PSTS of preoperative C6 level and postoperative C2 level were more closely related to the present of postoperative dysphagia (OR: 9.403, 95%CI: 2.344-37.719, OR: 3.187, 95%CI: 1.78-5.705). It was more important to predict postoperative dysphagia using the value of PSTS at preoperative C6 level and postoperative C2 level, with the cutoff threshold for the PSTS of preoperative C6 level ≦1.51 cm and postoperative C2 level ≦1.3915 cm, which could get sensitivity & specificity 66.929% and 61.54%, 77.17% and 64.29%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that the increasing of the PSTS after ACCF should be considered as a risk factor of dysphagia after surgery. With the recovery of PSTS over time, the incidence of postoperative dysphagia decreases. The PSTS of preoperative C6 level and and postoperative C2 level should play an important part in predicting the risk of postoperative dysphagia.

The role of esophageal area for dysphagia after anterior cervical corpectomy fusion: Change trends and risk factors

The objective of this study is to assess the change trends of perioperative esophageal area for anterior cervical corpectomy fusion (ACCF) and to analyze the risk factors of the area for postoperative dysphagia. We retrospectively analyzed 309 patients who underwent ACCF due to degenerative cervical diseases between November 2015 and September 2019 at our hospital. Patients were divided into 2 groups named the dysphagia group and the normal swallowing function group, according to the swallowing function after ACCF. The esophageal area was measured at T1 level using computed tomography axial plane images before and after surgery (1 week, 1 month, 8 months, and 12 months), in order to assess the change trends of esophageal area perioperatively and analyze risk factors of the area for dysphagia after ACCF. The area was highest at 1 week after surgery and would be decreased over time in both groups, which was recovered to the preoperative levels in 12 months after surgery. The incidence of dysphagia after ACCF was 41.1%. In the dysphagia group, 127 patients (mean age 59.299 years) had dysphagia after ACCF. In the normal-swallowing function group, 182 patients (mean age 59.8352 years) had normal swallowing function after ACCF. The preoperative esophageal area was larger in the dysphagia group than in the normal-swallowing function group. Preoperative esophageal area was correlated with postoperative dysphagia (odds ratio: 1.3457, 95% confidence interval: 1.106-1.637). When the esophageal area at preoperation was above 3.388 cm2, the risk of postoperative dysphagia was higher. The esophageal area was the biggest at 1 week postoperatively, significantly decreased over time and would be recovered to the normal size at 12 months after surgery. Preoperative esophageal area should be considered when evaluating the risk factor for dysphagia after ACCF.

Safety and Efficacy of Local Steroid Application on Dysphagia Following Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of local steroid application (LSA) on dysphagia after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Dysphagia is one of the most common adverse events in the early postoperative period of ACDF. LSA is reported as an effective method to reduce the swelling of soft tissues, thereby decreasing the incidence of dysphagia. However, the safety and efficacy of LSA on dysphagia after ACDF need to be systematically reviewed and analyzed.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was carried out in the database PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Clinical key, Cochrane library, and Wiley Online Library to screen papers that report LSA in ACDF surgery. The Cochrane Collaboration tool and a methodological index for nonrandomized studies were used for the assessment of study quality. Data were analyzed with the Review Manager 5.3 software.

RESULTS

A total of 10 studies were included. The results revealed no significant differences between the steroid group and the control group in ACDF regarding postoperative drainage, estimated blood loss, and neck disability index score (P > 0.05). LSA significantly alleviates visual analog scale score for neck pain (or odynophagia) (P < 0.05), reduces the length of hospital stay (weighted mean difference, -1.00 (-1.05 to -0.95); P < 0.001), and mitigates dysphagia rate and prevertebral soft-tissue swelling in the early postoperative period (P < 0.05). There seemed to be no significant increase in the complication rate and steroid-related adverse events in the steroid group compared with the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

LSA shows advantages in reducing the length of hospital stay, decreasing dysphagia rate, and mitigating prevertebral soft-tissue swelling in the early postoperative period of ACDF. Further large-scale studies are urgently required for the development of a standard protocol for LSA and further analysis of potential delay complications.

Variation in Prevertebral Soft Tissue Swelling after Staged Combined Multilevel Anterior-Posterior Complex Cervical Spine Surgery: Anterior Then Posterior (AP) versus Posterior Then Anterior-Posterior (PAP) Surgery

The influence of the sequence of surgery in the development of prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PSTS) in staged combined multilevel anterior-posterior complex spine surgery was examined. This study was conducted as a retrospective study of patients who underwent staged combined multilevel anterior-posterior complex cervical spine surgery from March 2014 to February 2021. Eighty-two patients were identified, of which fifty-seven were included in the final analysis after screening. PSTS was measured from routine serial monitoring lateral cervical radiographs prior to and after surgery for five consecutive days at each cervical level from C2 to C7 in patients who underwent anterior then posterior (AP) and posterior then anterior-posterior (PAP) surgery. The mean PSTS measurements significantly differed from the preoperative to postoperative monitoring days at all cervical levels (p = 0.0000) using repeated measures analysis of variance in both groups. PSTS was significantly greater in PAP than in AP at level C2 on postoperative day (POD) 1 (p = 0.0001). PSTS was more prominent at levels C2-4 during PODs 2-4 for both groups. In staged combined multilevel anterior-posterior complex spine surgery, PSTS is an inevitable complication. Therefore, surgeons should monitor PSTS after surgery when performing anterior-posterior complex cervical spine surgery, especially in the immediate postoperative period after PAP surgery.

A novel technique using ultrasonography in upper airway management after anterior cervical decompression and fusion

Background

Airway complications are the most serious complications after anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) and can have devastating consequences if their detection and intervention are delayed. Plain radiography is useful for predicting the risk of dyspnea by permitting the comparison of the prevertebral soft tissue (PST) thickness before and after surgery. However, it entails frequent radiation exposure and is inconvenient. Therefore, we aimed to overcome these problems by using ultrasonography to evaluate the PST and upper airway after ACDF and investigate the compatibility between X-ray and ultrasonography for PST evaluation.

Methods

We included 11 radiculopathy/myelopathy patients who underwent ACDF involving C5/6, C6/7, or both segments. The condition of the PST and upper airway was evaluated over 14 days. The Bland–Altman method was used to evaluate the degree of agreement between the PST values obtained using radiography versus ultrasonography. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between the PST measurement methods. Single-level and double-level ACDF were performed in 8 and 3 cases, respectively.

Results

PST and upper airway thickness peaked on postoperative day 3, with no airway complications. The Bland–Altman bias was within the prespecified clinically nonsignificant range: 0.13 ± 0.36 mm (95% confidence interval 0.04–0.22 mm). Ultrasonography effectively captured post-ACDF changes in the PST and upper airway thickness and detected airway edema.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography can help in the continuous assessment of the PST and the upper airway as it is simple and has no risk of radiation exposure risk. Therefore, ultrasonography is more clinically useful to evaluate the PST than radiography from the viewpoint of invasiveness and convenience.

Intraoperative Use of Topical Retropharyngeal Steroids for Dysphagia after Anterior Cervical Fusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Purpose

The anterior cervical approach is commonly used clinically for cervical spondylosis, but it also results in frequent postoperative dysphagia, which can increase the risk of complications and poor treatment satisfaction in severe cases. Intraoperative local application of retropharyngeal steroids has an impact on reducing the occurrence and severity of dysphagia; however, the results of current studies vary. The meta-analysis of this randomized trial was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intraoperative topical retropharyngeal steroids for the control of dysphagia after anterior cervical spine surgery.

Methods

Two authors searched electronic databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, respectively. The search terms were “Dysphagia,” “Steroids,” “Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion,” etc. A random effects model was used to conduct a meta-analysis based on deviance information criteria.

Results

A total of 8 studies were included in this meta-analysis after screening of 792 studies. Bazaz scores were not significantly different in the steroid group at one day postoperatively (P = 0.38), and dysphagia was significantly improved at 14 days postoperatively (95% CI: 0.15 to 0.64; P = 0.002). PSTSI was significantly improved one day (P = 0.03) and 14 days after surgery (P < 0.0001). VAS scores were all lower versus controls (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Perioperative local retropharyngeal steroid administration as an adjunct to anterior cervical spine surgery reduces the incidence and severity of dysphagia compared with placebo control. However, future high-quality randomized controlled studies could incorporate nonsubjective dysphagia measures and long-term follow-up on the occurrence of associated complications or other side effects.

Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial to Study the Effect of Local Steroids in the Retropharyngeal Space After Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of local steroids in the retropharyngeal space after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) in reducing prevertebral soft-tissue swelling (PSTS) and complications associated with it.

METHODS

A total of 50 consecutive patients operated with ACDF were double-blinded randomized into 2 groups: steroids (25) and control (25). Triamcinolone in collagen sponge was used in the steroid group and normal saline in gelatin sponge in the control group. Patients' lateral radiographs were taken on the immediate postoperative day; days 2, 4, and 6; at 2 weeks; and 2 and 6 months postoperatively. The PSTS ratio at C3 to C7 and PSTS index were calculated. Patients were clinically evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score for odynophagia and radiating pain, modified Japanese Orthopedic Association Score (mJOA), and Neck Disability Index (NDI).

RESULTS

PSTS showed a significant reduction in the steroid group as compared with the control group on the immediate postoperative day; days 2, 4, and 6; and at 2 weeks. However, at 2 and 6 months, PSTS remained the same. VAS score for odynophagia also showed a significant difference between the 2 groups on the immediate postoperative day; days 2, 4, and 6; and 2 weeks postoperatively, with no significant difference at the 2- and 6-month follow-up. mJOA and NDI showed no significant difference between the 2 groups at the 2- and 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Use of retropharyngeal steroids helps in reducing the postoperative odynophagia on a short-term basis without any complication.

Does Local Steroid Reduce Dysphagia After Cervical Disc Replacement? A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Double-blinded Study

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded study.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of intraoperatively administered local Depo-Medrol on the incidence and severity of postoperative dysphagia in patients undergoing cervical disk replacement (CDR) surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Dysphagia is often reported as an adverse event after anterior cervical surgeries. One method for reducing the incidence of postoperative dysphagia in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgeries is the intraoperative application of topical corticosteroids to the retroesophageal space. There have been no studies examining the effect of local steroids on dysphagia after CDR surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-three patients underwent CDR surgery by a single surgeon at a single institution. A 1 cm ×3 cm ×3 mm gel foam collagen sponge was saturated by the nurse with either saline (1 cc) or Depo-Medrol (40 mg/1 cc) based on randomization protocol. The sponge was placed ventral to the cervical disk implant in the retroesophageal space. Study follow-up occurred on postoperative day 1, 4, 7, 14 and postoperative month 1, 2, and 3. Dysphagia outcomes were classified using the Bazaz Dysphagia Score and Eating Assessment Tool 10.

RESULTS

The steroid group, compared with the control group, had significantly reduced incidence of dysphagia (50% vs. 75%; P=0.0427) and severe dysphagia (12% vs. 36% Bazaz score, P=0.0253; 18% vs. 42% Eating Assessment Tool 10, P=0.0378) at POD4. There was no significant long-term difference in rates of dysphagia between the control and the steroid group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides level 1 evidence that the use of intraoperative locally administered Depo-Medrol significantly reduces the incidence and severity of dysphagia within the first week after CDR surgery. The use of local steroid may provide patients undergoing CDR surgery with a more pleasant early recovery experience with respect to dysphagia.

Assessment of the self-reported dysphagia in patients undergoing one-level versus two-level cervical disc replacement with the Prestige-LP prosthesis

OBJECTIVES

Cervical disc replacement (CDR) has been established as an alternative to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for treating cervical degenerative pathologies over the past decade. However, swallowing difficulties challenge patient safety due to the increased risk of malnutrition, dehydration and aspiration pneumonia after CDR. Currently, there are limited studies focusing on the incidences, severity and associated risk factors for dysphagia after CDR. This paucity, therefore, necessitated this retrospective study on post-operative dysphagia after one- and two-level CDR.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred and fourteen patients underwent one-level CDR and forty eight patients underwent two-level CDR were recruited with a mean follow-up of 21 months (ranging from 14 to 30 months). The prevalence and severity of dysphagia was evaluated by the Bazaz grading system during the follow-up time. Regression analyses were done to identify risk factors associated with post-operative dysphagia after CDR.

RESULTS

The overall dysphagia occurrences in the one- and two-level CDR groups were 17.54% and 35.41% at week one, 12.28% and 25% after one month, 9.65% and 18.75% after three months, 6.14% and 14.58% after six months, 4.39% and 6.25% after one year, and 3.51% and 4.17% at the final follow-up, respectively. The identified risk factors for dysphagia after CDR were advanced age, C4/5 surgery, two-level surgery, dC2-C7 angle ≥ - 5° and ≥ 6 mm changes in the prevertebral soft tissue swelling (dPSTS).

CONCLUSION

The patients who experienced two-level CDR may have poor swallowing functions in the early post-operative term. However, these patients also can recover well with increasing length of follow-up. In addition, patients with advanced age, C4/5 surgery, dC2-C7 angle ≥ - 5° and ≥ 6 mm changes in dPSTS may prone to occur dysphagia after CDR.

Evaluation of Benefit and Cost Utility of Immediate Postanesthesia Care Unit Radiographs to Predict Airway Compromise After Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review.

OBJECTIVE

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a commonly performed procedure that may be complicated by airway compromise postoperatively. This life-threatening complication may necessitate reintubation and reoperation. We evaluated the cost utility of conventional postoperative x-ray.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Studies have demonstrated minimal benefit in obtaining an x-ray on postoperative day 1, but there is some utility of postanesthesia care unit (PACU) x-rays for predicting the likelihood of reoperation.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of consecutive patients who underwent ACDF between September 2013 and February 2017. Patients were dichotomized into those who received PACU x-rays and those who did not (control group). Primary outcomes were reoperation, reintubation, mortality, and health care costs.

RESULTS

Eight-hundred and fifteen patients were included in our analysis: 558 had PACU x-rays; 257 did not. In those who received PACU x-rays, mean age was 53.7 ± 11.3 years, mean levels operated on were 2.0 ± 0.79, and mean body mass index (BMI) was 30.3 ± 6.9. In those who did not, mean age was 51.8 ± 10.9 years, mean levels operated on were 1.48 ± 0.65, and mean BMI was 29.9 ± 6.3. Complications in the PACU x-ray group were reintubation-0.4%, reoperation-0.7%, and death-0.3% (due to prevertebral swelling causing airway compromise). Complications in the control group were reintubation-0.4%, reoperation-0.8%, and death-0. There were no differences between groups with respect to reoperation (P = 0.92), reintubation (P = 0.94), or mortality (P = 0.49). The mean per-patient cost was significantly higher (P = 0.009) in those who received PACU x-rays, $1031.76 ± 948.67, versus those in the control group, $700.26 ± 634.48. Mean length of stay was significantly longer in those who had PACU x-rays (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Although there were no differences in reoperation, reintubation, or mortality, there was a significantly higher cost for care and hospitalization in those who received PACU x-rays. Further studies are warranted to validate the results of the presented study.Level of Evidence: 3.

A rare case of difficult airway management in a Klippel-Feil syndrome pediatric patient with osseous torticollis undergone orthopedic surgery : Difficult airway in pediatric patient with torticollis

Background

Orthopedic surgery for cervical torticollis poses potential threat to airway management both in tracheal intubation and extubation. Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) is a complex syndrome of osseous and visceral anomalies. The anatomical characteristics of KFS might have significant implications for airway management.

Case presentation

This is a rare case of an 8-year-old boy presenting with osseous torticollis, congenital occipito-atlantal deformity, congenital basilar invagination and KFS undergone elective torticollis correction surgery. Though with difficulty, tracheal intubation was successfully performed. Extubation failed twice on postoperative day 2 and 10, and required tracheostomy. Based on radiological findings, we speculated that prolonged airway edema accounted for the main reason of the failed extubation, the hypertrophic tonsil and occipito-cervical fusion resulted in reduced oropharyngeal space and limited cervical range of motion. Moreover, the Chiari malformation and KFS complicated the airway condition and lead to prolonged airway obstruction. The tracheostomy casing was removed 1 month later.

Conclusions

Cautions should be taken in extubation of pediatric patients undergone major osseous torticollis surgery. Reintubation should be prepared in case of failed extubation. Severe post-operative airway edema, complicated with hypertrophic tonsil, the structural abnormalities in the oropharyngeal cavity, and occipito-cervical deformities constituted the decreased oropharyngeal space and resulted in failed extubation. For severe airway compromise and prolonged intubation, tracheostomy should be considered.

Outcomes of Discectomy by Using Full-Endoscopic Visualization Technique via the Transcorporeal and Transdiscal Approaches in the Treatment of Cervical Intervertebral Disc Herniation: A Comparative Study

Objective

To compare the difference in clinical and radiographic outcomes between anterior transcorporeal and transdiscal percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (ATc-PECD/ATd-PECD) approaches for treating patients with cervical intervertebral disc herniation (CIVDH).

Method

We selected 77 patients with single-segment CIVDH and received ATc-PECD or ATd-PECD in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between March 1, 2010, and July 1, 2015. 35 patients suffered from ATc-PECD, and there were 42 patients in the ATd-PECD group. Obtaining the data of 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively, the VAS for neck and arm pain and the modified MacNab criteria were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes, comparing radiographic outcomes and complications of these two groups.

Results

We found that the mean operative time was significantly longer in the ATc-PECD group (P < 0.05). At the 2-year follow-up, the mean VAS score for neck and arm pain was significantly decreased in both two groups. There was no significant difference in the VAS score for arm pain and neck pain between the two groups at the 2-year follow-up (P=0.783 and P=0.785, respectively). For the ATc-PECD group, the difference in the height of IVS or vertebral body was significant between the preoperative and postoperative groups (P < 0.05, respectively). For the ATd-PECD group, there was only a significant decrease in the height of the IVS (P < 0.05); the decrease in the surgical vertebral body was not significant between the preoperative and postoperative groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

In the 2-year follow-up, there is no significant difference in the clinical outcomes between the 2 approaches. While the longer time was consumed in the ATc-PECD group, the lower rate of disc collapse and recurrence is notable. Additionally, when the center diameter of tunnel was limited to 6 mm, the bony defect can be healed without the occurrence of the collapse of the superior endplate, and ATc-PECD may be preferable in the endoscopic treatment of CIVDH.

Treatment of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy with posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy: Short-term outcomes of 24 cases

To determine the short-term clinical outcomes of single-segment cervical spondylotic radiculopathy treated with posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PPECD).Data of a total of 24 patients who underwent PPECD and local anesthesia for single-level segmental cervical spondylotic radiculopathy between March 2016 and December 2017 were reviewed. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association, visual analog scale (VAS), and neck disability index scores at preoperative 1 day, postoperative 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year were recorded. The modified MacNab criteria at the last follow-up were re-recorded for the evaluation of clinical effectiveness.All operations were successfully completed under endoscopic guidance. No patient showed spinal cord, nerve root, vascular injuries, dural tears or other complications. The postoperative VAS scores of the arm and neck were significantly reduced compared with the preoperative VAS scores (P < .05), while postoperative the Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores were significantly increased (P < .05). The postoperative neck disability index scores were significantly reduced compared with preoperative scores (P < .05). The modified MacNab criteria at the last follow-up showed 16 excellent cases, 8 good cases, 0 fine cases, and 0 poor cases. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging and cervical 3-dimensional computed tomography reconstruction showed that the intervertebral disc was adequately resected and the nerve root was not under compression.PPECD is safe and effective for the treatment of single-segment cervical spondylotic radiculopathy.

Upper Cervical Surgery, Increased Signal Intensity of the Spinal Cord, and Hypertension as Risk Factors for Dyspnea After Multilevel Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the associated risk factors for acute respiratory distress after multilevel anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with a focus on the subjective symptom, dyspnea.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Acute respiratory distress after ACDF is a relatively common adverse event, the cause of which is usually soft tissue swelling or hematoma. It can result in serious morbidity and requires careful, focused treatment.

METHODS

We reviewed the records of 532 patients (from January 2014 to August 2018) who had undergone multilevel ACDF surgery. Acute respiratory distress was defined as a complaint of dyspnea within 5 postoperative days. We investigated the patients' demographic parameters, comorbidities, and surgical procedure details. We also investigated radiologic parameters, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with special attention to the prevertebral soft tissue thickness at C3 and C6. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student's t test and multiple logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 484 patients studied after exclusion criteria were applied, 31 patients (6.6%) experienced dyspnea after surgery. We selected 92 patients from the non-dyspnea group and compared them with 31 patients from the dyspnea group. On univariate analysis, upper cervical surgery involving C3, increased cord signal intensity on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), hypertension, smoking, and prevertebral soft tissue swelling at C3 level on postoperative day 1 were statistically significant factors associated with dyspnea. On logistic regression analysis, upper cervical surgery involving C3, increased cord signal intensity on T2WI MRI, and hypertension were found to be statistically significant variables (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing upper cervical surgery involving C3, and having increased cord signal intensity on T2WI MRI and hypertension need to be monitored more carefully for acute respiratory distress after multilevel ACDF.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

A Case Report Describing Three Cases of Challenging or Failed Intubation after Cervical Spine Surgery: A Peril of Early Extubation

Postoperative airway complications can be a common, yet perhaps underappreciated, complication in patients undergoing cervical spine surgery. Presented here are three cases in which patients experienced postoperative airway compromise, resulting in difficulty establishing a secure airway following cervical spine operations. Establishing factors that contribute to airway complications after cervical spine surgery can aid in early identification of high-risk patients to create an appropriate airway management strategy. Ultimately, the frequency of airway difficulty after removal of the endotracheal tube in patients undergoing cervical spine surgery should not be taken lightly.

Percutaneous full-endoscopic anterior transcorporeal cervical discectomy and channel repair: a technique note report

Background

Compared to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), cervical motion segment and disc was retained through anterior transcorporeal herniotomy (ATH). But surgical field and manipulation in traditional ATH was restricted by the narrow channel. Percutaneous full-endoscopic transdiscal cervical discectomy is a minimally invasive and functional spine surgery. However, significant loss of intervertebral disc height was inevitable. This study was done to illustrate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy and present our surgical experience of percutaneous full-endoscopic anterior transcorporeal cervical discectomy (PEATCD) and channel repair (CR) for the treatment of cervical disc herniation (CDH).

Methods

Four patients with CDH were chosen to undergo PEATCD and CR with a follow-up care for at least 22 months. The visual analogue score (VAS), Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA), and modified Macnab criteria were recorded during the postoperative periods. CT images were obtained to observe the healing of the channel at 1 week and 3 months after the operation.

Results

The average operating time was 83.75 min. Drainage tubes were unnecessary. No procedure-related complications occurred. The postoperative VAS and JOA scores were improved compared to those of the preoperative assessment. The clinical efficacy was excellent in 3 patients and good in 1 patient at final follow up stage according to the modified Macnab criteria. The hernia was removed completely in all patients according to postoperative MRI. Migration of the repair implementation and collapse of the drilled vertebrae were not observed during the postoperative periods. The bony channel was nearly absent on CT images obtained at 3 months postoperative.

Conclusion

This is the first time that the anterior transcorporeal cervical discectomy and CR have been performed simultaneously under endoscopy. Less damage to disc and the retained cervical motion segment were achieved through this method. This is a feasible, safe, and minimally invasive procedure.

Trial registration

Numbers: ChiCTR1800016383. Registered 29 may 2018. Retrospectively registered. Trial registry: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12891-019-2659-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Acute post-operative airway complications following anterior cervical spine surgery and the role for cricothyrotomy

Anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS) is a common procedure, but not without its own risks and complications. Complications that can cause airway compromise occur infrequently, but can rapidly lead to respiratory arrest, leading to severe morbidity or death. Knowing emergent post-operative airway management including surgical airway placement is critical. We aim to review the different etiologies of post-operative airway compromise following ACSS, the predictable timeline in which they occur, and the most appropriate treatment and management for each. We place special emphasis on the timing and proper surgical technique for an emergent cricothyrotomy. Angioedema is seen the earliest as a cause of post-operative airway compromise, typically within 6-12 hours. Retropharyngeal hematomas can be seen between 6-24 hours, most commonly within 12 hours. Pharyngolaryngeal edema is seen within 24-72 hours. After 72 hours, retropharyngeal abscess is the most likely etiology. Several studies have utilized delayed extubation protocols following ACSS based on patient risk factors and found reduced postoperative airway complications and reintubation rates. The administration of perioperative corticosteroids continues to be controversial with high-level studies recommending both for and against their use. Animal studies showed that after cardiac arrest, the brain can recover if oxygenation is restored within 5 minutes, but this time is likely shorter with asphyxia prior to cardiac arrest. Experience and training are essential to reduce the time for successful cricothyrotomy placement. Physicians must be prepared to diagnose and treat acute postoperative airway complications following ACSS to prevent anoxic brain injury or death. If emergent intubation cannot be accomplished on the first attempt, physicians should not delay placement of a surgical airway such as cricothyrotomy.

Posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy through lamina-hole approach for cervical intervertebral disc herniation

BACKGROUND

The optimal PECD surgical approach for cervical intervertebral disc herniation (CIVDH) remains controversial. The conventional posterior K-hole approach for PECD leads to damage of facet joint.

OBJECTIVES

This article is to first describe a novel posterior lamina-hole approach of percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PECD) for CIVDH. The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and short-term clinical effect of this approach.

METHODS

Single-center retrospective observational study of all patients managed with posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PPECD) using the lamina-hole approach for symptomatic single-level CIVDH between January 2015 and January 2016. The clinical outcomes were evaluated with the visual analog scale, modified MacNab criteria and radiographical results.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (seven women, five men) were enrolled in the study. Positive clinical response for pain relief was achieved in these patients receiving PPECD through lamina-hole approach for CIVDH. Postoperative MRI showed complete removal of the disc material in all the patients, no failure due to residual fragment was observed.

CONCLUSION

As an alternative surgical approach of PPECD, PPECD through lamina-hole approach is a novel access for CIVDH and may be considered a valid and safe therapeutic option for CIVDH. The advantages of this approach are not only providing a valid and secure access to herniated cervical intervertebral fragment but also avoiding the iatrogenic damage to the facet joint and relevant functional spinal unit (FSU). Theoretically, the potential of secondary degeneration of FSU is low.

A Novel Posterior Trench Approach Involving Percutaneous Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy for Central Cervical Intervertebral Disc Herniation

OBJECTIVE

This report describes a novel posterior trench approach involving percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PECD) for central cervical intervertebral disc herniation (CIVDH) and an evaluation of the feasibility, safety, and short-term clinical effect of this approach.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Central CIVDH is considered the contraindication for posterior PECD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single-center retrospective observational study was performed with 30 patients managed with posterior PECD using the trench approach for symptomatic single-level central CIVDH. Primary outcomes included the measures of bodily pain and physical function based on the SF-36 and modified MacNab criteria. Radiographical follow-up included the static and dynamic cervical plain radiographs, computed tomographic scans, and magnetic resonance images.

RESULTS

A positive clinical response for symptom relief was achieved in all patients. The postoperative MRI showed total removal of the herniated disc.

CONCLUSIONS

As a supplement to the described surgical techniques of PECD, this trench approach provides novel access for the treatment of CIVDH, especially for the central type. The advantages of this technique include the provision of access to decompress the ventral region of the thecal sac and the ability to avoid damage to the facet joint. The steep learning curve might be a major disadvantage, and the sample volume is a limitation of the study; the effectiveness and reliability of the trench approach should be further verified in a comparative cohort study with a large volume of patients.

Cervical disc herniation: which surgery?

PURPOSE

Cervical disc herniation is a common pathology. It can be treated by different surgical procedures. We aimed to list and analyzed every available surgical option. We focused on the comparison between anterior cervical decompression and fusion and cervical disc arthroplasty.

RESULTS

The anterior approach is the most commonly used to achieve decompression and fusion by the mean of autograft or cage that could also be combined with anterior plating. Anterior procedures without fusion have shown good outcomes but are limited by post-operative cervicalgia and kyphotic events. Posterior cervical foraminotomy achieved good outcomes but is not appropriate in a case of a central hernia or ossification of the posterior ligament. Cervical disc arthroplasty is described to decrease the rate of adjacent segment degeneration. It became very popular during the last decades with numerous studies with different implant device showing encouraging results but it has not proved its superiority to anterior cervical decompression and fusion. Anterior bone loss and heterotopic ossification are still to be investigated.

CONCLUSION

Anterior cervical decompression and fusion remain the gold standard for surgical treatment of cervical disc herniation.

Usage of Bone Wax to Facilitate Percutaneous Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy Via Anterior Transcorporeal Approach for Cervical Intervertebral Disc Herniation

BACKGROUND

Currently, anterior transdiscal access and posterior interlaminar approach are the main approaches for percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PECD). To overcome access shortcomings, we previously described a novel anterior endoscopic transcorporeal approach on a migrated cervical disc. We innovatively introduced bone wax into endoscopic surgery to aid hemostasis and facilitate the process of drilling an intracorporeal tunnel.

METHODS

Five patients with cervical intervertebral disc herniation (CIDH) were treated by PECD via the anterior transcorporeal approach. During the operation, we marked the punctured tunnel with bone wax containing indigo carmine as a guide and smeared bone wax on the endoscopic burr to aid hemostasis.

RESULTS

A satisfactory clinical outcome was observed in all 5 patients postoperatively; pain and neurologic condition were dramatically improved. Surgery-related complications, such as esophageal injury, vascular rupture, hematoma, intervertebral disc infection, or postoperative headache, were not encountered. A computed tomography scan was used to observe the process of bone healing. At 3-month postoperative follow-up, the bone defect within the drilling tunnel had partially shrank and was completely healed at 6 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

The anterior endoscopic transcorporeal approach for PECD is a novel, valuable alternative for the treatment of CIDH. Bone wax could indeed facilitate the operation by guiding the drilling process and instantly controlling the bleeding without obvious interference with bone healing. Long-term follow-up is warranted in further clinical studies.

Adverse Outcomes and Prediction of Cardiopulmonary Complications in Elective Spine Surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to report incidence of cardiopulmonary complications in elective spine surgery, demographic and surgical predictors, and outcomes. Understanding the risks and predictors of these sentinel events is important for risk evaluation, allocation of hospital resources, and counseling patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) was performed on 60 964 patients undergoing elective spine surgery (any region; laminectomy, arthrodesis, discectomy, or laminoplasty) between 2011 and 2013. Incidence of myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, unplanned reintubation, on ventilator >48 hours, perioperative pneumonia, and pulmonary embolism was measured. Demographic and surgical predictors of cardiopulmonary complications and associated outcomes (length of stay, discharge disposition, and mortality) were measured using binary logistic regression controlling for confounders.

RESULTS

Incidence rates per 1000 elective spine patients were 2.1 myocardial infarctions, 1.3 cardiac arrests, 4.3 unplanned intubations, 3.5 on ventilator >48 hours, 6.1 perioperative pneumonia, and 3.7 pulmonary embolisms. In analysis of procedure, diagnosis, and approach risk factors, thoracic cavity (odds ratio = 2.47; confidence interval = 1.95-3.12), scoliosis diagnosis, and combined approach (odds ratio = 1.51; confidence interval = 1.15-1.96) independently added the most risk for cardiopulmonary complication. Cardiac arrest had the highest mortality rate (34.57%). Being on ventilator greater than 48 hours resulted in the greatest increase to length of stay (17.58 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Expected risk factors seen in the Revised Cardiac Risk Index were applicable in the context of spine surgery. Surgical planning should take into account patients who are at higher risk for cardiopulmonary complications and the implications they have on patient outcome.

Analysis of the Risk Factors Associated with Prolonged Intubation or Reintubation after Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery

BACKGROUND

Standardized postoperative airway management is essential for patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS). The paucity of clinical series evaluating these airway complications after ACSS has been resulted in a significant limitation in statistical analyses.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed regarding airway distress (intubation for more than 24 hours or unplanned reintubation within 7 days of operation) developed after ACSS. If prevertebral soft tissue swelling was evident after the operation, patients were managed with prolonged intubation (longer than 24 hours). Preoperative and intraoperative patient data, and postoperative outcome (time to extubation and reintubation) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Between 2008 and 2016, a total of 400 ACSS were performed. Of them, 389 patients (97.25%) extubated within 24 hours of surgery without airway complication, but 11 patients (2.75%) showed postoperative airway compromise; 7 patients (1.75%) needed prolonged intubation, while 4 patients (1.00%) required unplanned reintubation. The mean time for extubation were 2.75 hours (range: 0-23 hours) and 50.55 hours (range: 0-250 hours), respectively. Age (P = 0.015), diabetes mellitus (P = 0.003), operative time longer than 5 hours (P = 0.048), and estimated blood loss (EBL) greater than 300 mL (P = 0.042) were associated with prolonged intubation or reintubation. In prolonged intubation group, all patients showed no airway distress after extubation.

CONCLUSION

In ACSS, postoperative airway compromise is related to both patients and operative factors. We recommend a prolonged intubation for patients who are exposed to these risk factors to perform a safe and effective extubation.

Validity and reliability of a novel patient reported outcome tool to evaluate post-operative dysphagia, odynophagia, and voice (DOV) disability after anterior cervical procedures

Background

Existing evaluative instruments for dysphagia, odynophagia, and voice disturbance are cumbersome, focus pre-dominately on dysphagia, and often require administration by a certified Speech Pathologist. This study was conducted to utilize widely accepted instruments such as the American Speech and Hearing Association's National Outcomes Measurement System (NOMS) and VAS pain scales to validate a novel, patient-reported instrument that quantifies the severity of post-operative dysphagia, odynophagia, and voice disabilities (DOV).

Methods

The DOV was developed and subjected to multiple rounds of face and content validation by representative patient cohorts and a panel of clinical experts. An established, prospective clinical registry was utilized to collect pre and post-operative VAS-swallow related pain and DOV measurements for subjects with recent anterior cervical procedures (n=25 content validation, n=20 criterion validation), or recent lumbar decompressions (n=33). NOMS evaluations were performed by a certified Speech Language Pathologist on the first post-operative day after minimally invasive anterior approaches to cervical reconstruction were performed in the criterion validation cohort.

Results

Content validity: Subjects with a recent anterior cervical procedure reported a significant increase in post-operative dysphagia (pre-op: 0.13±0.35, post-op: 1.08±1.41, p=0.01), odynophagia (pre-op: 0.24±0.69, post-op: 0.84±0.90, p=0.001), and voice (pre-op: 0.10±0.41, post-op: 0.88±0.92, p=0.0004) disturbance. In contrast, subjects with a recent lumbar procedure did not demonstrate a significant increase in post-operative dysphagia, odynophagia, or voice disturbance (p>0.05).Criterion validity: Chi-squared contingency testing for independence between converted NOMS and DOV instrument scores accepted linkage between the two instruments for dysphagia X2(DF: 12, n=20, Expected: 21.03, Observed: 24.4, p: 0.02) and voice X2(DF: 6, n=20, Expected: 12.60, Observed: 21.28, p: 0.002) dimensions. Similarly, converted swallow related VAS and DOV odynophagia instruments demonstrated linkage X2(DF: 9, n=20, Expected: 16.92, Observed: 24.21, p: 0.004).Internal Reliability: Chronbach's alpha coefficient of reliability was 0.74 between all DOV survey dimensions.

Conclusions

The DOV survey is a valid patient-reported instrument to rapidly and reliably detect post-operative swallow and voice dysfunction.

Trend of Spine Surgeries in the Outpatient Hospital Setting Versus Ambulatory Surgical Center

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database review.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to examine how often spine surgery is being performed in an outpatient hospital setting versus a more "true" ambulatory setting, specifically ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) in which admission and discharge are required on the same calendar day.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Recent studies have assessed the safety, satisfactory clinical outcomes, and increasing utilization of both cervical and lumbar spinal surgeries performed in the outpatient setting. No studies have delineated between true ambulatory settings and outpatient hospitals when assessing the rates of these procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the Truven Health Marketscan Research Databases was conducted for patients undergoing spine operations between 2003 and 2014. The frequency of each Common Procedural Terminology code was identified per year, and then categorized into each of "inpatient hospital," "outpatient hospital," or "ASC" in states that clearly define ASCs as facilities in which patients are discharged on the same calendar day of the operation, and do not stay overnight.

RESULTS

During the period between 2003 and 2014, the procedures that had the most dramatic increase as an outpatient hospital procedure included lumbar decompression laminotomy first level (18.7%-68.5%) and posterior cervical decompression laminectomy without facetectomy discectomy first level (0%-46.7%). ASC procedures had more modest increases during this time period with the most significant increases in lumbar decompression laminotomy first level (0.7%-10.6%) and posterior cervical decompression laminotomy first level (0%-23.4%).

CONCLUSION

"True" ambulatory surgeries are not increasing at the same rate as outpatient procedures with 23-hour observation capacity. Although prior studies have demonstrated the safety of outpatient spine surgery, one possible reason for this trend may be that surgeons feel that this safety may not be comparable to that of other outpatient procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Soft tissue swelling incidence using demineralized bone matrix in the outpatient setting

AIM

To assess use of demineralized bone matrix (DBM) use in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) in outpatient setting.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-five patients with prospectively collected data undergoing single and two level ACDF with DBM packed within and anterior to polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages. Two groups created, Group 1 (75) outpatients and control Group 2 (70) hospital patients. Prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PVSTS) was measured anterior to C2 and C6 on plain lateral cervical radiographs preoperatively and one week postoperatively and fusion assessed at two years.

RESULTS

There was no intergroup significance between preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scales (VAS) and neck disability index (NDI) scores between Group 1 and 2. Mean preoperative PVSTS in Group 1 was 4.7 ± 0.2 mm at C2 level and 11.1 ± 0.5 at C6 level compared to Group 2 mean PVSTS of 4.5 ± 0.5 mm and 12.8 ± 0.5, P = 0.172 and 0.127 respectively. There was no radiographic or clinical evidence of adverse reaction noted. In Group 1 mean postoperative PVSTS was 5.5 ± 0.4 mm at C2 and 14.9 ± 0.6 mm at C6 compared Group 2 mean PVSTS was 4.9 ± 0.3 mm at C2 and 14.8 ± 0.5 mm at C6, P = 0.212 and 0.946 respectively. No significant increase in prevertebral soft tissue space at C2 and C6 level demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

ACDF with adjunct DBM packed PEEK cages showed a statistical significant intragroup improvement in VAS neck pain scores and NDI scores (P = 0.001). There were no reported serious patient complications; post-operative radiographs demonstrated no significant difference in prevertebral space. We conclude that ACDF with DBM-packed PEEK cages can be safely done in an ASC with satisfactory outcomes.

Risk factors and preventative measures of early and persistent dysphagia after anterior cervical spine surgery: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To conduct a systematic review of literature to determine risk factors and preventative measures of early and persistent dysphagia after anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS).

METHODS

On March 2017, we searched the database PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, the Cochrane library, Clinical key, Springer link and Wiley Online Library without time restriction using the term 'dysphagia', 'swallowing disorders', and 'anterior cervical spine surgery'. Selected papers were examined for the level of evidence by published guidelines as level I, level II, level III, level IV studies. We investigated risk factors and preventative measures of early or persistent dysphagia after ACSS from these papers.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 515 citations. Fifty-nine of these studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Three of them were level I evidence studies, 29 were level II evidence studies, 22 were level III evidence studies, and 3 were level IV evidence studies. Preventable risk factors included prolonged operative time, use of rhBMP, endotracheal tube cuff pressure, cervical plate type and position, dC2-C7 angle, psychiatric factors, tobacco usage, prevertebral soft tissue swelling, SLN or RLN palsy or injury of branches. Preventative measures included preoperative tracheal traction exercise, maintaining endotracheal tube cuff pressure at 20 mm Hg, avoiding routine use of rhBMP-2, use of zero-profile implant, use of Zephir plate, use of new cervical retractor, steroid application, avoiding prolonged operating time, avoiding overenlargement of cervical lordosis, decreasing surgical levels, ensuring knowledge of anatomy of superior laryngeal nerve and recurrent laryngeal nerve, to comfort always, patients quitting smoking and doctors ensuring improved skills. Unpreventable risk factors included age, gender, multilevel surgery, revision surgery, duration of preexisting pain, BMI, blood loss, upper levels, preoperative comorbidities and surgical type.

CONCLUSION

Adequate preoperative preparation of the patients including preoperative tracheal traction exercise and quitting smoking, proper preventative measures during surgery including maintaining endotracheal tube cuff pressure at 20 mm Hg, avoiding routine use of rhBMP-2, use of zero-profile implant, use of Zephir plate, use of new cervical retractor, steroid application, avoiding prolonged operating time, avoiding overenlargement of cervical lordosis and decreasing surgical levels, doctors ensuring knowledge of anatomy, improved surgical techniques and to comfort always are essential for preventing early and persistent dysphagia after ACSS.

Airway Management Protocol After Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Analysis of the Results of Risk Factors Associated With Airway Complication

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective comparative cohort analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of postoperative airway management protocol (ASAN Extubation Protocol, AEP) on incidence of airway complications for patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS).

BACKGROUND

Postoperative airway compromise remains crucial for patients undergoing ACSS. Despite the potential severity of these complications, the data in the published literature addressing this issue is sparse.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed regarding airway complications (postoperative airway edema requiring unplanned reintubation or tracheostomy) between groups of patients undergoing ACSS before and after applying our standardized protocol (AEP) for postoperative extubation. The AEP was developed based on 5 clinical risk factors reported having relation to airway complication. Postoperative patients with any oneor more risk factors were kept intubated for at least overnight and extubation was conducted according to the amount of prevertebral soft tissue swelling.

RESULTS

A total of 538 ACSS patients were identified from 2008 to 2016. The nonprotocol group (before protocol application, 275 patients) and the Protocol group (after protocol, 263 patients) were compared; airway complication rates were significantly different between two groups (nonprotocol: 3.64% (10/275) vs.

PROTOCOL

0.76% (2/263), P = 0.024). The possible factors that may increase airway complication include operative indications (P = 0.002), trauma (P = 0.000), medical comorbidity risk (P = 0.011), combined anterior and posterior surgery (P = 0.002), and operation time longer than 5 hours (P = 0.045). In multivariate analysis, medical comorbidity risk, trauma, and airway protocol adoption were significant factors. AEP reduced the airway complication rate by odds ratio 0.125 (P = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Postoperative airway complication is not very common after ACSS. AEP contributed to reduce the incidence of airway complications. The potentially life-threatening event of loss of airway patency, even though it is a rare complication, should be cautiously analyzed with identification of risk factors before the surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

The natural course of prevertebral soft tissue swelling after anterior cervical spine surgery: how long will it last?

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PSTS) after anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS) has been regarded as one of the critical complications that cause airway obstruction. Still, however, no research has dealt with how PSTS returns to presurgery status after ACSS; most recommendations are being performed without information about its natural course, focusing on acute-phase swelling after surgery.

PURPOSE

The study aimed to examine how long postsurgery PSTS lasts and when it returns to its presurgery state, and to analyze the actual influence of a number of factors to observe the natural progress of postsurgery PSTS.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

This is a prospective observational study.

PATIENT SAMPLE

The sample included a total of 160 patients who underwent ACSS, including anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and cervical total disc replacement (TDR).

OUTCOME MEASURES

The diameter of PSTS measured at each set time point after surgeries was compared with PSTS measurements before surgery, and analyzed with factors influencing PSTS.

METHODS

Anterior and posterior diameters of the anterior soft tissue of C3 (pharyngeal airway) and C6 (laryngeal airway) were measured using simple lateral radiography before surgery, immediately after surgery, at 2 weeks, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. The progress of postsurgery PSTS was analyzed according to patients' individual characteristics, such as age, gender, weight, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, use of antiplatelet therapy, hypertension and diabetes mellitus, complaints of dysphagia, along with surgical factors such as anesthesia time, operation time, numbers of involved operation segments, transfusion, estimated blood loss , and operation method. Multivariable analysis by generalized linear mixed model was used to perform additional univariable analysis on variables found to be related to PSTS. In addition, to find the postsurgery interval at which PSTS naturally stabilizes, repeated measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni method were used to perform post-hoc tests. There were no sources of funding and no conflicts of interest associated with this study.

RESULTS

For ACDF, the mean values (95% confidence interval [CI]) of PSTS in C3 were 4.38 (4.04~4.71), 10.40 (9.64~11.17), 7.72 (7.10~8.35), 6.24 (5.74~6.69), 5.43 (5.03~5.82), 5.14 (4.77~5.50), and 4.96 (4.59~5.33) mm at each follow-up time, respectively. In C6, the average values (95% CI) of PSTS were 14.43 (13.96~14.91), 19.18 (18.59~19.77), 17.92 (17.37~18.47), 16.98 (16.45~17.51), 16.18 (15.67~16.69), 15.95 (15.50~16.40), and 15.49 (15.50~16.40) mm. For cervical TDR, the mean values (95% CI) of PSTS in C3 were 3.67 (3.45~3.89), 8.05 (7.17~8.93), 5.42 (4.92~5.91), 4.57 (4.21~4.92), 4.12 (3.99~4.36), 4.10 (3.87~4.34), and 3.90 (3.66~4.14) mm at each follow-up time, respectively. In C6, the average values (95% CI) of PSTS were 13.61 (12.96~14.25), 16.51 (15.80~17.21), 15.77 (15.13~16.42), 15.24 (14.61~15.87), 14.62 (14.01~15.22), 14.52 (13.88~15.17), and 13.94 (13.20~14.68) mm. It is discovered that PSTS after surgery returned to presurgery status within 1 to 3 months in the pharyngeal airway (C3) and within 3 to 6 months in the laryngeal airway (C6), and gender, BMI, and surgery method (ACDF) were determined to be the factors having influence on PSTS after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

It is necessary to pay attention to PSTS and patient conditions after ACSS for at least 1 to 6 months postsurgery, depending on surgical method and operation levels.

Incidence, Risk Factors, and Mortality of Reintubation in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study of an administrative database.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to investigate the incidence, risk factors, and mortality rate of reintubation after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

BACKGROUND DATA

There are limited data regarding the occurrence of reintubation after ASD surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from 2002 to 2011 was used to identify adult patients who underwent elective surgery for scoliosis. Patients who required reintubation were identified and compared with controls (no reintubation). A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent factors associated with reintubation.

RESULTS

A total of 9734 patients who underwent surgery for ASD were identified, and 182 required reintubation [1.8%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.6%-2.1%] on average 2 days after surgery (range, 0-28 d). After multivariable analysis, the strongest independent risk factors associated with reintubation included postoperative acute respiratory failure [odds ratio (OR), 12.0; 95% CI, 8.6-16.6], sepsis (OR, 6.9; 95% CI, 3.5-13.6), and deep vein thrombosis (OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 3.0-10.9); history of chronic lung disease (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.3) and fusion of 8 or more segments (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1-2.2) were also independent risk factors. Mortality rates were significantly higher in reintubated patients (7.3%) compared with that in nonreintubated patients (0.2%, P<0.001). More importantly, reintubation was an independent risk factor for inpatient mortality (OR, 9.8; 95% CI, 4.1-23.5; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The reintubation rate after ASD surgery is approximately 1.8%. Patients with a history of chronic lung disease and patients undergoing fusion of 8 or more segments may be at an increased risk for reintubation; other associated factors included acute respiratory failure, sepsis, and deep vein thrombosis. Patients who required postoperative airway management after ASD surgery were 9.8 times more likely to die during their hospital stay compared with controls.

Prevalence and Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Reintubation After Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Results From the AOSpine North America Multicenter Study on 8887 Patients

STUDY DESIGN

A multicenter, retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate clinical outcomes in patients with reintubation after anterior cervical spine surgery.

METHODS

A total of 8887 patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery were enrolled in the AOSpine North America Rare Complications of Cervical Spine Surgery study. Patients with or without complications after surgery were included. Demographic and surgical information were collected for patients with reintubation. Patients were evaluated using a variety of assessment tools, including the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale, Nurick score, Neck Disability Index, and Short Form-36 Health Survey.

RESULTS

Nine cases of postoperative reintubation were identified. The total prevalence of this complication was 0.10% and ranged from 0% to 0.59% across participating institutions. The time to development of airway symptoms after surgery was within 24 hours in 6 patients and between 5 and 7 days in 3 patients. Although 8 patients recovered, 1 patient died. At final follow-up, patients with reintubation did not exhibit significant and meaningful improvements in pain, functional status, or quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the prevalence of reintubation was very low, this complication was associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Clinicians should identify their high-risk patients and carefully observe them for up to 2 weeks after surgery.

Noninfectious prevertebral soft-tissue inflammation and hematoma eliciting swelling after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

OBJECTIVE

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures are performed to treat patients with cervical myelopathy or radiculopathy. Dysphagia is a post-ACDF complication. When it coincides with prevertebral space enlargement and inflammation, surgical site infection and pharyngoesophageal perforation must be considered. The association between dysphagia and prevertebral inflammation has not been reported. The authors investigated factors eliciting severe dysphagia and its relationship with prevertebral inflammation in patients who had undergone ACDF.

MATERIALS

The clinical data of 299 patients who underwent 307 ACDF procedures for cervical radiculopathy or myelopathy at Kushiro Kojinkai Memorial Hospital and Kushiro Neurosurgical Hospital between December 2007 and August 2014 were reviewed.

RESULTS

After 7 ACDF procedures (2.3%), 7 patients suffered severe prolonged and/or delayed dysphagia and odynophagia that prevented ingestion. In all 7 patients the prevertebral space was enlarged. In 5 (1.6%) the symptom was thought to be associated with prevertebral soft-tissue edema; in all 5 an inflammatory response, hyperthermia, and an increase in the white blood cell count and in C-reactive protein level was observed. After 2 procedures (0.7%), we noted prevertebral hematoma without an inflammatory response. None of the patients who had undergone 307 ACDF procedures manifested pharyngoesophageal perforation or surgical site infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe dysphagia and odynophagia are post-ACDF complications. In most instances they are attributable to prevertebral soft-tissue edema accompanied by inflammatory responses such as fever and an increase in the white blood cell count and in C-reactive protein. In other cases these anomalies are elicited by hematoma not associated with inflammation.

Multivariate analysis of airway obstruction and reintubation after anterior cervical surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 774 patients

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study.

PURPOSE

To explore the risk factors for reintubation after airway obstruction following anterior cervical surgery.

STUDY BACKGROUND

Anterior cervical surgery is an effective surgical therapy for cervical spine disorders. As the anterior approach is adopted more frequently, some rare postoperative complications come under the spotlight, among which, airway obstruction is extremely detrimental. However, the risk factors and the pathogenesis of the airway obstruction still remain unknown. Therefore, finding out the incidence rate and the risk factors of airway obstruction after anterior cervical surgery weighs significantly on preventing airway obstruction.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the history and follow-up data of 774 patients who underwent anterior cervical surgery during January 2007 and June 2016. The patients were divided into two groups according to the occurrence of airway obstruction complication. Patients' age, sex, smoking history, drinking history, the presence of diabetes, body mass index (BMI), course of disease, surgical method, the location of the surgical segment, operation duration and the number of surgical segments were recorded and analyzed. Univariate analysis was conducted for the foregoing factors which might associate with concurrent airway obstruction, to screen out statistically significant factors, followed by a multivariate logistic regression analysis to analyze the relationship between these factors and the incidence rate of reintubation for airway obstruction after anterior cervical surgery.

RESULTS

14 of 744 patients developed postoperative airway obstruction followed by reintubation, which makes the incidence rate of 1.81% (14/774) for patients having airway obstruction after anterior cervical surgery. Among the 14 patients, 12 (85.7%) developed airway obstruction within 48 h after surgery, and 2 (14.3%) postoperative showed delayed airway obstruction in 9-11d after surgery. All of them had reintubation. The results of univariate analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences in age, smoking history, body mass index (BMI), surgical method, the location of the surgical segment, operation duration and the number of surgical segments between the two groups (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR = 2.038, 95% CI = 1.045-4.012), smoking (OR = 1.502, 95% CI = 1.012-2.375), BMI (OR = (OR = 1.807, 95% CI = 1.126-2.842), operation duration (OR = 2.503, 95% CI = 1.580-3.966), surgical method (OR = 3.386, 95% CI = 1.036-3.625), the location of the surgical segment (OR = 2.391, 95% CI = 1.085-5.159) and the number of surgical segments (OR = 2.512, 95% CI = 1.564-3.768) were the risk factors for airway obstruction and reintubation after anterior cervical surgery (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Age, smoking, obesity, the number of surgical segments, surgical method and surgical segment location are the important factors which may induce airway obstruction after anterior cervical surgery and therefore led to the decision of reintubations.