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Şık N, Bulut SK, Şalbaş ÖY, Yılmaz D, Duman M. Evaluation of traumatic spinal injuries: a pediatric perspective. Childs Nerv Syst 2024; 40:2775-2780. [PMID: 38856745 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-024-06447-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the present study is to provide information about pediatric patients with spinal trauma. METHODS A single-center retrospective chart review was carried out. Children who arrived at the pediatric emergency department due to trauma and those with spinal pathology confirmed by radiological assessment were included. Demographics, mechanisms of trauma, clinical findings, radiological investigations, applied treatments, hospital stay and prognosis were recorded. RESULTS A total of 105 patients [59 (56.2%) boys; mean age: 12.9 ± 3.8 years (mean ± SD)] were included. The most common age group was that of 14-18 years (58.1%). The three most common trauma mechanisms were road traffic collisions (RTCs) (60.0%), falls (32.4%), and diving into water (2.9%). A fracture of the spine was detected in 97.1% patients, vertebral dislocation in 10.7%, and spinal cord injury in 16.3%. Of the patients, 36.9% were admitted to the ward and 18.4% to the pediatric intensive care unit; 17.1% were discharged with severe complications and 2.9% cases resulted in death. While 34.3% of the patients had a clinically isolated spine injury, the remaining cases entailed an injury to at least one other body part; the most common associated injuries were to the head (39.8%), abdomen (36.1%), and external areas (28.0%). CONCLUSION Spinal trauma was found to have occurred mostly in adolescent males, and the majority of those cases were due to RTCs. Data on the incidence and demographic factors of pediatric spinal trauma are crucial in furthering preventive measures, allowing for the identification of at-risk populations and treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihan Şık
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sena Kalkan Bulut
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Özge Yıldırım Şalbaş
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Durgül Yılmaz
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Murat Duman
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey.
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Ejide C, Bandyopadhyay S, Lakhoo K. Paediatric Spinal Cord Injury: A Review of Current Management. Cureus 2024; 16:e63306. [PMID: 39070359 PMCID: PMC11283304 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.63306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) in the paediatric population is considered a separate entity from the same injury in adults due to the unique anatomical, physiological, and biomechanical properties of the pediatric spine. No comprehensive, standardized, international guidelines currently exist for physicians to follow regarding the management of paediatric spinal cord injuries. Therefore, a narrative literature review approach was employed to explore the management of paediatric spinal cord injuries. The review adhered to the methodological frameworks that entailed identifying a curated selection of pertinent articles on the topic, rather than an exhaustive comprehensive search that is utilised in systematic reviews, this was followed by a reflective interpretation of their content. Using the electronic databases, PubMed and Google Scholar, a search of peer-reviewed studies conducted only in the English language was included. Only studies in which the full article was available were included. Paediatric populations are defined as individuals aged between 0 and 18 years. In total, 26 studies were included in our review. We conclude that it is necessary to factor in specific paediatric considerations, such as disproportionate head size, increased ligament laxity, increased prevalence of upper cervical injury, and future development of scoliosis, in the prehospital, medical, and surgical management of paediatric spinal cord injuries. Clinicians should be made aware of these considerations, as they can improve the outcomes in the paediatric population who suffer from this devastating injury. There is a lack of high-quality studies and data concerning the paediatric population who have sustained SCIs. This literature review highlights the available data and calls for more studies to be conducted in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikolum Ejide
- Oxford University Global Surgery Group, University of Oxford, Oxford, GBR
| | | | - Kokila Lakhoo
- Oxford University Global Surgery Group, University of Oxford, Oxford, GBR
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Hashimoto K, Nishimura S, Shinyashiki Y, Goto K. Grisel's Syndrome After COVID-19 in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report. Cureus 2024; 16:e62028. [PMID: 38989331 PMCID: PMC11233925 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
An eight-year-old female presenting with posterior neck pain and torticollis who had been diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) three weeks earlier was radiographed and diagnosed with atlantoaxial rotatory fixation (AARF). Following treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the posterior neck pain improved, and the torticollis was cured. Symptoms returned after two weeks, and computed tomography showed a 3.94 mm atlantodental interval and axis rotation. The patient was diagnosed with AARF relapse; symptoms resolved spontaneously prior to subsequent examination, and no further relapses were observed. This case highlights the need for clinicians to be aware that AARF may develop after COVID-19. Treatment options should be carefully considered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shunji Nishimura
- Orthopedic Surgery, Kindai University Hospital, Osakasayama, JPN
| | - Yu Shinyashiki
- Orthopedic Surgery, Kindai University Hospital, Osakasayama, JPN
| | - Koji Goto
- Orthopedic Surgery, Kindai University Hospital, Osakasayama, JPN
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Oude Alink M, Stassen H, Spoor J, Renkens J, Moors X, Dremmen M, Stolker RJ, van der Marel C. Traumatic Spinal Injury in Children; Time to Revise Pre-Hospital and Diagnostic Protocols? J Clin Med 2024; 13:2372. [PMID: 38673645 PMCID: PMC11051567 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Traumatic spinal injury in children is a rare but serious life event. Predicting pediatric patients at risk for spinal injury remains difficult. This study focuses on the cause of the injury and predictors to identify children at risk and appropriate diagnostic procedures. Methods: Retrospective chart review from the Landelijke Trauma Registratie of patients with spinal injury from 2010 to 2021 in a level 1 pediatric trauma center. Results: We included 114 children with spinal injury, 79.8% of whom were aged 12-17 years. In the overall trauma population, the incidence of spinal injury was 10% in children aged 12-17 years, 2.3% in children aged 6-11 years, and 0.4% in children 0-5 years of age. Neurological deficits were present in 27.2% of patients in the emergency department, with permanent deficits in 14.0%. Spinal fractures were present in 91.2% of 12-17-year-olds, 43.8% in 6-11-year-olds, and 71.4% in 0-5-year-olds. ISS was 23 (SD 14) in children with spinal injury compared to 8 (SD 9) for children without spinal injury. Conclusions: In children 0-11 years old, spinal injury is very rare compared to the overall trauma population, and there are more non-osseous injuries. Clinicians should consider MRI as the next step after conventional X-ray to diagnose or exclude spinal injuries in this group. In older children aged 12-17 years, the incidence of spinal injury is much higher, at 10%. Although ISS is higher in children with spinal injury, a low ISS does not exclude spinal injury. If one fracture is found, more fractures in other regions of the spine may be present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Oude Alink
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (H.S.); (X.M.); (R.J.S.); (C.v.d.M.)
| | - Huub Stassen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (H.S.); (X.M.); (R.J.S.); (C.v.d.M.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Jochem Spoor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Jeroen Renkens
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Xavier Moors
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (H.S.); (X.M.); (R.J.S.); (C.v.d.M.)
- Helicopter Emergency Medical Services, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Dremmen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Robert Jan Stolker
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (H.S.); (X.M.); (R.J.S.); (C.v.d.M.)
| | - Caroline van der Marel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (H.S.); (X.M.); (R.J.S.); (C.v.d.M.)
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Tavender E, Eapen N, Wang J, Rausa VC, Babl FE, Phillips N. Triage tools for detecting cervical spine injury in paediatric trauma patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 3:CD011686. [PMID: 38517085 PMCID: PMC10958760 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011686.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric cervical spine injury (CSI) after blunt trauma is rare but can have severe consequences. Clinical decision rules (CDRs) have been developed to guide clinical decision-making, minimise unnecessary tests and associated risks, whilst detecting all significant CSIs. Several validated CDRs are used to guide imaging decision-making in adults following blunt trauma and clinical criteria have been proposed as possible paediatric-specific CDRs. Little information is known about their accuracy. OBJECTIVES To assess and compare the diagnostic accuracy of CDRs or sets of clinical criteria, alone or in comparison with each other, for the evaluation of CSI following blunt trauma in children. SEARCH METHODS For this update, we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and six other databases from 1 January 2015 to 13 December 2022. As we expanded the index test eligibility for this review update, we searched the excluded studies from the previous version of the review for eligibility. We contacted field experts to identify ongoing studies and studies potentially missed by the search. There were no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA We included cross-sectional or cohort designs (retrospective and prospective) and randomised controlled trials that compared the diagnostic accuracy of any CDR or clinical criteria compared with a reference standard for the evaluation of paediatric CSI following blunt trauma. We included studies evaluating one CDR or comparing two or more CDRs (directly and indirectly). We considered X-ray, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine, and clinical clearance/follow-up as adequate reference standards. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened titles and abstracts for relevance, and carried out eligibility, data extraction and quality assessment. A third review author arbitrated. We extracted data on study design, participant characteristics, inclusion/exclusion criteria, index test, target condition, reference standard and data (diagnostic two-by-two tables) and calculated and plotted sensitivity and specificity on forest plots for visual examination of variation in test accuracy. We assessed methodological quality using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies Version 2 tool. We graded the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS We included five studies with 21,379 enrolled participants, published between 2001 and 2021. Prevalence of CSI ranged from 0.5% to 1.85%. Seven CDRs were evaluated. Three studies reported on direct comparisons of CDRs. One study (973 participants) directly compared the accuracy of three index tests with the sensitivities of NEXUS, Canadian C-Spine Rule and the PECARN retrospective criteria being 1.00 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48 to 1.00), 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00), respectively. The specificities were 0.56 (95% CI 0.53 to 0.59), 0.52 (95% CI 0.49 to 0.55) and 0.32 (95% CI 0.29 to 0.35), respectively (moderate-certainty evidence). One study (4091 participants) compared the accuracy of the PECARN retrospective criteria with the Leonard de novo model; the sensitivities were 0.91 (95% CI 0.81 to 0.96) and 0.92 (95% CI 0.83 to 0.97), respectively. The specificities were 0.46 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.47) and 0.50 (95% CI 0.49 to 0.52) (moderate- and low-certainty evidence, respectively). One study (270 participants) compared the accuracy of two NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) head injury guidelines; the sensitivity of the CG56 guideline was 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00) compared to 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00) with the CG176 guideline. The specificities were 0.46 (95% CI 0.40 to 0.52) and 0.07 (95% CI 0.04 to 0.11), respectively (very low-certainty evidence). Two additional studies were indirect comparison studies. One study (3065 participants) tested the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria; the sensitivity was 1.00 (95% CI 0.88 to 1.00) and specificity was 0.20 (95% CI 0.18 to 0.21) (low-certainty evidence). One retrospective study (12,537 participants) evaluated the PEDSPINE criteria and found a sensitivity of 0.93 (95% CI 0.78 to 0.99) and specificity of 0.70 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.72) (very low-certainty evidence). We did not pool data within the broader CDR categories or investigate heterogeneity due to the small quantity of data and the clinical heterogeneity of studies. Two studies were at high risk of bias. We identified two studies that are awaiting classification pending further information and two ongoing studies. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is insufficient evidence to determine the diagnostic test accuracy of CDRs to detect CSIs in children following blunt trauma, particularly for children under eight years of age. Although most studies had a high sensitivity, this was often achieved at the expense of low specificity and should be interpreted with caution due to a small number of CSIs and wide CIs. Well-designed, large studies are required to evaluate the accuracy of CDRs for the cervical spine clearance in children following blunt trauma, ideally in direct comparison with each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Tavender
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Departments of Paediatrics and Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nitaa Eapen
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Vanessa C Rausa
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Franz E Babl
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Departments of Paediatrics and Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Emergency Department, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Emergency Department, Queensland Children's Hospital, Children's Health Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Biomechanics and Spine Research Group, Centre for Children's Health Research, School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Ezra D, Barash A, Levy S, Vardi I, Nielsen M, Dror G. Morphologic aspects of the cervical (C3 to C7) annular epiphysis: a skeletal study. Spine J 2023:S1529-9430(23)00159-6. [PMID: 37141994 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT The annular epiphysis (AE) is a peripheral ring of cortical bone that forms a secondary ossification center in the superior and inferior surfaces of vertebral bodies (VBs). The AE is the last ossification site in the skeleton, typically forming at about the 25th year of life. The AE functions jointly with vertebral endplates to anchor the intervertebral discs to the VBs. PURPOSE To establish accurate data on the sizes of the AE of the cervical spine (C3-C7); to compare the ratios between areas and the ratios of the AE to VBs; to compare the ratios between the superior and inferior VB surface areas; and to compare AE lengths between the posterior and anterior midsagittal areas. STUDY DESIGN Measurement of 424 cervical spines (C3-C7) obtained from the skeletal collection of the Natural History Museum, Cleveland, Ohio (USA). METHODS The sample was characterized by sex, age, and ethnic origin. The following measurements were recorded for each vertebra: (1) the surface area of the VBs and the AE, (2) the midsagittal anterior and posterior length of the AE, (3) the ratios between the AE and VB surface areas, and (4) the ratios between the superior and inferior disc surface areas. RESULTS The study revealed that the AE and VBs in men were larger than in women. With age, the AE and VBs became larger; the ratio between the AE and VB surface was ∼0.5 throughout the middle to lower cervical spine. The ratio of superior to inferior VBs was ∼0.8. We found no differences between African Americans versus European Americans or between the anterior versus the posterior midsagittal length of the AE of the superior and inferior VBs. CONCLUSION The ratios between the superior and inferior VBs is ≥0.8, and the ratio is the same for the entire middle to lower spine. Thus, the ratio between the superior and inferior VBs to the AE is ≥ 0.5. Men had larger AEs and VBs than women did, with both VBs and AEs becoming larger with age. Knowing these relationships are important so that orthopedic surgeons can best correct these issues in young patients (<25 years old) during spine surgery. The data reported here provide, for the first time, all the relevant sizes of the AE and VB. In future studies, AEs and VBs of living patients can be measured with computed tomography. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The ER location and function are clinically significant showing any changes during life that might lead to clinical issues related to intervertebral discs such as intervertebral disc asymmetry, disc herniation, nerve pressure, cervical osteophytes and neck pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ezra
- School of Nursing Sciences, the Academic College of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Tel Aviv 6818211, Israel.
| | - Alon Barash
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel.
| | - Sigal Levy
- Statistics Education Unit, The Academic College of Aviv-Jaffa, Tel Aviv 6818211, Israel.
| | - Ilor Vardi
- School of Behavioral Sciences, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Tel Aviv 6818211, Israel.
| | - Mark Nielsen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
| | - Gideon Dror
- School of Computer Sciences, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Tel Aviv 6818211, Israel.
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Stephenson KJ, Bullard KL, Wyrick DL, Ramakrishnaiah RH, Albert GW, Maxson RT. Can you see with CT? Is cervical spine computed tomographic imaging sufficient in pediatric trauma? Am J Surg 2023:S0002-9610(23)00097-1. [PMID: 36922323 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic cervical spine injury (CSI) is fundamentally different in children, and imaging recommendations vary; however, prompt diagnosis is necessary. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study, evaluating children who presented after traumatic injury from 7/1/2012 to 12/31/2019 receiving a cervical spine CT. Evaluation of the incidence and clinical significance of CSI undetected on CT subsequently diagnosed on MRI was conducted. Additionally, all with CSI underwent image review to evaluate for potential overlooked, but visible pathology. RESULTS 1487 children underwent a cervical spine CT, revealing 52 with CSI. 237 underwent MRI due to an abnormal CT or continued clinical concern. Ultimately, three were discovered to have clinically significant CSI missed on CT. In all cases, retrospective review demonstrated a retroclival hematoma when soft tissue windows were formatted in sagittal and coronal views. CONCLUSIONS A normal CT may be sufficient to rule-out clinically significant CSI. However, the presence of a retroclival hematoma must be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista J Stephenson
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Arkansas Children's Hospital, 1 Children's Way, Slot 837, Little Rock, AR, 72202, United States.
| | - Kori L Bullard
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 5301 W Markham St, Slot 520, Little Rock, AR, 72205, United States
| | - Deidre L Wyrick
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Arkansas Children's Hospital, 1 Children's Way, Slot 837, Little Rock, AR, 72202, United States
| | - Raghu H Ramakrishnaiah
- Department of Pediatric Neuroradiology, Arkansas Children's Hospital, 1 Children's Way, Slot 105, Little Rock, AR, 72202, United States
| | - Gregory W Albert
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Arkansas Children's Hospital, 1 Children's Way, Slot 838, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - R Todd Maxson
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Arkansas Children's Hospital, 1 Children's Way, Slot 837, Little Rock, AR, 72202, United States
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Kalanjiyam GP, Kanna RM, Rajasekaran S. Pediatric spinal injuries- current concepts. J Clin Orthop Trauma 2023; 38:102122. [PMID: 36846073 PMCID: PMC9945789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcot.2023.102122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal injuries in children contribute to the highest mortality and morbidity among all pediatric injuries. Fortunately, these injuries are a rare clinical entity but pose a difficulty in diagnosis due to challenges in neurological evaluation of a child and varied radiological presentation. Anatomical and biomechanical aspects of developing musculoskeletal system, relative plasticity of the pediatric spine make children vulnerable to spine injuries. Though motor vehicle collisions are common, children also suffer non-accidental trauma, falls and sports injuries. More chances of cervical spine involvement, higher susceptibility of spinal cord to tensile forces and associated multisystem injuries result in devastating consequences in children compared to adults. Injuries like SCIWORA, vertebral apophyseal injuries, birth-related spinal cord injuries are more specific injuries in pediatric age group. A vigilant clinical, neurological and radiological evaluation is mandatory in all children with suspected spinal injuries. Normal radiological features like ossification centers, pseudosubluxation and physiological vertebral wedging should be carefully noted as they could be misinterpreted as injuries. While CT scans help in better understanding of the fracture pattern, Magnetic Resonance Imaging in children is beneficial especially in detecting SCIWORA and other soft tissue injuries. Management principles of these pediatric spinal injuries are similar to adults. Literature evidences support conservative management in injuries like SCIWORA, unless there is an ongoing spinal cord compression. As in adults, the role of high dose methylprednisolone is still controversial in pediatric spinal cord injuries. Stable spinal injuries can be managed conservatively using orthosis or halo. Instrumentation by both anterior and posterior techniques has been described, but it is challenging due to smaller anatomy and poor implant purchase. In addition to pedicle screw instrumentation, wiring techniques are very beneficial especially in younger children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rishi Mugesh Kanna
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore, India
| | - S. Rajasekaran
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore, India
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O'Neill C, Wenzel A, Walterscheid Z, Carmouche J. Distinguishing Pseudosubluxation From True Injury: A Case of C2-3 and C3-4 Subluxation in a Pediatric Patient. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev 2021; 5:01979360-202112000-00002. [PMID: 34860729 DOI: 10.5435/jaaosglobal-d-20-00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A 6-year-old girl presented with a one-week history of neck pain after a trampoline accident. Cervical radiographs interpreted as pseudosubluxation of C2 on C3. CT demonstrated the reversal of lordosis with anterolisthesis of C2-C3 and C3-C4. Ten weeks after two months of halo traction, radiographs demonstrated anatomic alignment and maintained disk heights. This case highlights the similarities of pseudosubluxation and true injury, emphasizing the need for high index of suspicion in this population and a successful treatment of subluxation using a halo construct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor O'Neill
- From the Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Orthopaedics, Richmond, VA (Dr. O'Neill); Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA (Ms. Wenzel and Dr. Carmouche); University of Washington Department of Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, Seattle, WA (Dr. Walterscheid); and Carilion Clinic Department of Orthopaedics, Roanoke, VA (Dr. Carmouche)
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Taher AW, Falls CJ, Page PS, Stadler JA. Temporary Internal Bracing for Pediatric Odontoid Synchondrosis Fracture. Cureus 2021; 13:e17639. [PMID: 34646687 PMCID: PMC8485764 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.17639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Children are predisposed to injuries of the upper cervical spine given their relatively immature osteology, ligamentous laxity, underdeveloped musculature, and larger ratios of head to body mass. Odontoid process fractures involving the synchondroses are among the most common of these injuries. Though many of these fractures can be treated conservatively with external bracing, fractures with significant displacement that are unable to be reduced require operative management. In these cases, most patients undergo C1-2 posterior fusion with arthrodesis with permanent limitation to atlantoaxial range of motion (ROM). Here, we present a novel operative approach to manage odontoid synchondrosis fractures with temporary internal bracing via C1-2 posterior instrumentation without arthrodesis. We saw a three-year-old female who presented after a motor vehicle collision with a displaced odontoid synchondrosis fracture that was unable to be adequately reduced in a closed fashion. In an attempt to preserve maximal atlantoaxial ROM, temporary internal bracing was carried out with excellent results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman W Taher
- Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
| | - Cody J Falls
- Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
| | - Paul S Page
- Neurosurgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
| | - James A Stadler
- Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
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11
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Booker J, Hall S, Dando A, Dare C, Davies E, McGillion S, Mathad N, Waters R, Tsitouras V, Mundil N, Wahab S, Chakraborty A. Paediatric spinal trauma presenting to a UK major trauma centre. Childs Nerv Syst 2021; 37:1949-1956. [PMID: 33515056 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05044-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Paediatric spine trauma is uncommon and is managed differently from adults due to the anatomical differences of the paediatric spine. The paediatric spine is less ossified, with lax ligaments and a higher fulcrum in the c-spine which results in a different pattern of injuries. The aim of this study is to provide a contemporary audit of paediatric spinal trauma. METHODS A retrospective review was conducted using the Trauma and Audit Research Network database at a major trauma centre (2011-2018). All patients < 18 years old with a spine injury underwent case note and radiology review. RESULTS A total of 72 patients (37, 51.4% male with an average age of 13.3 (± 5.9) years old) were identified. The most common mechanism of injury was road traffic collisions (n = 39, 54.2%). The most common sporting cause was motocross accidents (n = 6, 8.3%), and a further 6 (8.3%) patients had a suspected inflicted injury. Eight patients (11.1%) sustained a spinal cord injury. Twenty-seven (37.5%) patients underwent surgical intervention to treat their spinal injury. CONCLUSION This series demonstrates the profile of injury mechanisms causing paediatric spinal injuries. Paediatric spine injuries continue to have the potential for lifelong disability and require careful, specialist management. This series also highlights certain causes such as motocross accidents and suspected inflicted injury which are more frequent than expected and raise potential public health concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Booker
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Samuel Hall
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - Alexander Dando
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Christopher Dare
- Department of Orthopaedics, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Evan Davies
- Department of Orthopaedics, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Stephen McGillion
- Department of Orthopaedics, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Nijaguna Mathad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Ryan Waters
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Vassilios Tsitouras
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Nilesh Mundil
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Salima Wahab
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Aabir Chakraborty
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wessex Neurological Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
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12
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Konovalov N, Peev N, Zileli M, Sharif S, Kaprovoy S, Timonin S. Pediatric Cervical Spine Injuries and SCIWORA: WFNS Spine Committee Recommendations. Neurospine 2020; 17:797-808. [PMID: 33401857 PMCID: PMC7788416 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2040404.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical trauma in children have variations from the adults mainly due to anatomic differences. An optimal diagnostic and treatment strategy is critical, particularly when there is a lack of standardized protocols for the management of such cases. This review paper examines the diagnostic and treatment options of pediatric cervical trauma and Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormality (SCIWORA). A literature search for the last 10 years were conducted using key words. Case reports, experimental studies, papers other than English language were excluded. Up-to-date information on pediatric cervical trauma and SCIWORA were reviewed and statements were produced to reach a consensus in 2 separate consensus meeting of WFNS Spine Committee. The statements were voted and reached a consensus using Delphi method. This review reflects different aspects of contemporary pediatric cervical trauma decision-making and treatment, and SCIWORA. The mainstay of SCIWORA treatment is nonsurgical with immobilization, avoidance of risky activities. Prognosis generally depends on the initial neurological status and magnetic resonance imaging. Due to a significant discrepancy in the literature on diagnostic and management, future randomized controlled trials are needed to aid in generating standardized protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Konovalov
- Burdenko Institute Department of Neurosurgery, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Nikolay Peev
- Department of Neurosurgery, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Northern Ireland, Belfast, UK
| | - Mehmet Zileli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Salman Sharif
- Neurosurgery Liaquat National Hospital & Medical College, Karachi Pakistan, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Stanislav Kaprovoy
- Burdenko National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Stanislav Timonin
- Burdenko National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery, Moscow, Russian Federation
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13
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Lykissas M, Gkiatas I, Spiliotis A, Papadopoulos D. Trends in pediatric cervical spine injuries in the United States in a 10-year period. J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong) 2020; 27:2309499019834734. [PMID: 30862255 DOI: 10.1177/2309499019834734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical spine fractures (CSFs) are potentially devastating injuries in pediatric population. Fortunately, these injuries are uncommon in pediatric patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the epidemiology, the risk factors, mechanisms of injury and to identify possible strategies for prevention. In addition, the aim of the current study was to compare CSF sustained in 2003 to CSF sustained in 2008 and 2013 so as to recognize the trend of pediatric CSFs in the United States. METHODS The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was queried for CSF sustained in pediatric population up to 16 years of age for years 2003, 2008, and 2013. Outcomes of interest were patient characteristics (age and sex), causes of CSF, and mechanism of injury. RESULTS Eighty pediatric patients with CSF were identified. The average age was 10.5 years. Boys sustained significantly more CSF than girls. Statistically significant more CSF were occurred in children of 10-16 years than in children up to 9 years. Sports or recreational activities and home-related accidents were the predominant causes of CSF. Mechanisms of injury were age-related, with younger children sustaining CSF as a result of home-related accidents while adolescents commonly injured during sporting or recreational activities. In contrast to current data in literature, motor vehicle accidents were not a major cause of CSF. Comparing the years 2003, 2008, and 2013, statistically significant differences in the incidence of CSF were not found. CONCLUSIONS Our study confirms previous findings that adolescents who sustain CSF have higher incidence of sport or recreation-related accidents than younger patients who sustain commonly home-related accidents as a consequence of insufficient parental supervision. The perception that motor vehicle accidents comprise major cause of CSF appears not to be true.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Lykissas
- 1 Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics, Metropolitan Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Gkiatas
- 2 Orthopaedic Department, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Antonios Spiliotis
- 3 Department of General, Visceral, Vascular and Pediatric Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg, Saarland, Germany
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14
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Benmelouka A, Shamseldin LS, Nourelden AZ, Negida A. A Review on the Etiology and Management of Pediatric Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries. ADVANCED JOURNAL OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2019; 4:e28. [PMID: 32322796 PMCID: PMC7163256 DOI: 10.22114/ajem.v0i0.256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Pediatric traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is an uncommon presentation in the emergency department. Severe injuries are associated with devastating outcomes and complications, resulting in high costs to both the society and the economic system. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION The data on pediatric traumatic spinal cord injuries has been narratively reviewed. RESULTS Pediatric SCI is a life-threatening emergency leading to serious outcomes and high mortality in children if not managed promptly. Pediatric SCI can impose many challenges to neurosurgeons and caregivers because of the lack of large studies with high evidence level and specific guidelines in terms of diagnosis, initial management and of in-hospital treatment options. Several novel potential treatment options for SCI have been developed and are currently under investigation. However, research studies into this field have been limited by the ethical and methodological challenges. CONCLUSION Future research is needed to investigate the safety and efficacy of the recent uprising neurodegenerative techniques in SCI population. Owing to the current limitations, there is a need to develop novel trial methodologies that can overcome the current methodological and ethical limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ahmed Negida
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Egypt
- Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
- Neurosurgery Department, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
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15
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Copley PC, Tilliridou V, Kirby A, Jones J, Kandasamy J. Management of cervical spine trauma in children. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2019; 45:777-789. [PMID: 30167742 PMCID: PMC6791958 DOI: 10.1007/s00068-018-0992-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Paediatric cervical spine injuries are fortunately a rare entity. However, they do have the potential for devastating neurological sequelae with lifelong impact on the patient and their family. Thus, management ought to be exceptional from the initial evaluation at the scene of the injury, through to definitive management and rehabilitation. METHODS We set out to review cervical spine injuries in children and advise on current best practice with regards to management. RESULTS Epidemiology, initial management at the scene of injury, radiological findings and pitfalls of cervical spine trauma are outlined. Strategies for conservative and surgical management are detailed depending on the pattern of injury. The management of spinal cord injuries without radiological abnormality (SCIWORA) and cranio-cervical arterial injuries is also reviewed. CONCLUSIONS Due to a paucity of evidence in these rare conditions, expert opinion is necessary to guide best practice management and to ensure the best chance of a good outcome for the injured child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Correia Copley
- Department of Neurosurgery, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
| | - Vicky Tilliridou
- Department of Radiology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Andrew Kirby
- Department of Radiology, The Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jeremy Jones
- Department of Radiology, The Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jothy Kandasamy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
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16
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Saekhu M, Ashari S, Tandian D, Nugroho SW. Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion in a 7-year-old boy: a case report. MEDICAL JOURNAL OF INDONESIA 2019. [DOI: 10.13181/mji.v28i2.2673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bicycle mishap, a common and ordinary event occurring in children, can have devastating consequences associated with cervical spine injury. Furthermore, either diagnosis or surgical management of cervical spine injury in children is a challenging issue. This research report a challenging case of an anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion with plating in a 7-year-old boy due to cervical spine instability with spinal cord compression after a bicycle mishap. After 20 months of the primary surgery, the titanium-based cervical plate was removed by a second surgery to allow the growth of the cervical spine.
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17
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Hopper SM, McKenna S, Williams A, Phillips N, Babl FE. Clinical clearance and imaging for possible cervical spine injury in children in the emergency department: A retrospective cohort study. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 32:93-99. [PMID: 31317676 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES While cervical spine injuries (CSIs) are rare in the paediatric population, presentations to EDs with possible neck injuries are common. Based on a lack of Australian data we set out to determine how many possible injuries are clinically cleared, what imaging is used on the remainder and the incidence and characteristics of confirmed paediatric CSIs. METHODS We undertook a retrospective electronic medical record review of children <18 years with potential CSIs at a large tertiary paediatric trauma centre in Victoria, Australia over a 12 month period (annual census 87 000). For possible injuries we extracted key epidemiologic, imaging and short-term outcome data. RESULTS During the study period, a total of 617 patients with potential neck injuries were seen in the ED (617/87 000, 0.7%). The median age was 11 years. The most common mechanisms of injury were falls (41%), motor vehicle injuries (28%) and sports-related injuries (24%). Four hundred and fourteen of 617 (67%) underwent neck imaging (345/414, 83% plain radiograph; 100/414, 24% computed tomography; 7/414, 1.6% magnetic resonance imaging). Twenty-three of 617 (4.1%) had radiologically documented CSIs. Two required operative interventions for their neck injuries. CONCLUSION While two-thirds of children with potential CSIs undergo radiological evaluation, actual injuries are rare (<4%). These data suggest that there is a potential for improved targeting of cervical spine imaging for trauma. The development of a clinical decision tool may help reduce neck radiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy M Hopper
- Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stewart McKenna
- Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amanda Williams
- Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Child Health Research Centre, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Franz E Babl
- Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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18
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Complete remodelling of a displaced odontoid synchondrosis fracture managed conservatively: a case report. J Pediatr Orthop B 2019; 28:411-414. [PMID: 30921249 DOI: 10.1097/bpb.0000000000000623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Odontoid synchondrosis fractures are the most common cervical fracture in young children, although their overall incidence is rare. Various strategies have been proposed in the management of injuries with significant displacement or angulation. In this report, we present the long-term functional and radiological outcomes following nonoperative treatment of such a fracture in a 5-year-old female. The patient was referred to our tertiary centre with radiological progression of angulation from 10° to 35° within 5 weeks of the injury, despite wearing a rigid collar. She had no neurological compromise. Although we examined the fracture under general anaesthetic, and subsequently applied halo traction, there was no effect on alignment. The halo device was removed after 11 days and a rigid collar was fitted again. The patient had no pain or neurological symptoms out of the collar at 12 weeks after injury (6 weeks after removal of halo), and a computed tomography scan at 15 weeks confirmed that the fracture had united in malalignment. However, serial radiographs and MRI subsequently have shown that the axis has remodelled completely. At 7 years follow-up, there has been no impact on the patient's functional range of movement or quality of life. This case highlights the preservation of the motion segment and the remarkable remodelling potential of the paediatric cervical spine.
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19
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Geuther M, Grassner L, Mach O, Klein B, Högel F, Voth M, Bühren V, Maier D, Abel R, Weidner N, Rupp R, Fürstenberg CH, Schneidmueller D. Functional outcome after traumatic cervical spinal cord injury is superior in adolescents compared to adults. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2019; 23:248-253. [PMID: 30579697 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determining differences in neurological and functional outcome between adolescents and adults after acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN Retrospective, multi-center case-control study. METHODS 100 cases of patients under 18 years at accident with acute traumatic cervical SCI admitted to SCI centers participating in the European Multi-center study about SCI (EMSCI) between January 2005 and April 2016 were reviewed. According to their age at accident, age 13 to 17, patients were selected for the adolescent group. After applying in- and exclusion criteria 32 adolescents were included. Each adolescent patient was matched with two adult SCI patients for analysis. OUTCOME MEASURES ASIA Impairment scale (AIS) grade, neurological, sensory, motor level, total motor score, and Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM III) total score. RESULTS Mean AIS conversion, neurological, motor and sensory levels as well as total motor score showed no significantly statistical difference in adolescents compared to the adult control group after follow up of 6 months. Significantly higher final SCIM scores (p < 0.05) in the adolescent group compared to adults as well as a strong trend for a higher gain in SCIM score (p < 0.061) between first and last follow up was found. CONCLUSIONS Neurological outcome after traumatic cervical SCI is not superior in adolescents compared to adults in this cohort. Significantly higher SCIM scores indicate more functional gain for the adolescent patients after traumatic cervical SCI. Juvenile age appears to be an independent predictor for a better functional outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Geuther
- Center for Spinal Cord Injuries, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany.
| | - Lukas Grassner
- Center for Spinal Cord Injuries, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany; Department of Neurosurgery, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany; Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020, Salzburg, Austria; Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Orpheus Mach
- Center for Spinal Cord Injuries, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany
| | - Barbara Klein
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020, Salzburg, Austria; Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Florian Högel
- Center for Spinal Cord Injuries, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany; Institute of Biomechanics, Trauma Center Murnau and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Strubergasse 22, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Maika Voth
- Department of Trauma-, Hand- and Reconstructive Surgery, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Volker Bühren
- Center for Spinal Cord Injuries, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany
| | - Doris Maier
- Center for Spinal Cord Injuries, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany
| | - Rainer Abel
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Klinik Hohe Warte, Hohe Warte 8, 95445, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Norbert Weidner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Rupp
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carl Hans Fürstenberg
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, SRH Klinikum Karlsbad-Langensteinbach, Guttmannstr. 1, 76307, Karlsbad, Germany
| | | | - Dorien Schneidmueller
- Department of Pediatric Traumatology, Trauma Center, Prof.-Küntscher-Str. 8, 82418, Murnau, Germany
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20
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Poorman GW, Segreto FA, Beaubrun BM, Jalai CM, Horn SR, Bortz CA, Diebo BG, Vira S, Bono OJ, DE LA Garza-Ramos R, Moon JY, Wang C, Hirsch BP, Tishelman JC, Zhou PL, Gerling M, Passias PG. Traumatic Fracture of the Pediatric Cervical Spine: Etiology, Epidemiology, Concurrent Injuries, and an Analysis of Perioperative Outcomes Using the Kids' Inpatient Database. Int J Spine Surg 2019; 13:68-78. [PMID: 30805288 DOI: 10.14444/6009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The study aimed to characterize trends in incidence, etiology, fracture types, surgical procedures, complications, and concurrent injuries associated with traumatic pediatric cervical fracture using a nationwide database. Methods The Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) was queried. Trauma cases from 2003 to 2012 were identified, and cervical fracture patients were isolated. Demographics, etiologies, fracture levels, procedures, complications, and concurrent injuries were assessed. The t-tests elucidated significance for continuous variables, and χ2 for categoric values. Logistic regressions identified predictors of spinal cord injury (SCI), surgery, any complication, and mortality. Level of significance was P < .05. Results A total of 11 196 fracture patients were isolated (age, 16.63 years; male, 65.7%; white, 65.4%; adolescent, 55.4%). Incidence significantly increased since 2003 (2003 vs 2012, 2.39% vs 3.12%, respectively), as did Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI; 2003 vs 2012, 0.2012 vs 0.4408, respectively). Most common etiology was motor vehicle accidents (50.5%). Infants and children frequently fractured at C2 (closed: 43.1%, 32.9%); adolescents and young adults frequently fractured at C7 (closed: 23.9%, 26.5%). Upper cervical SCI was less common (5.8%) than lower cervical SCI (10.9%). Lower cervical unspecified-SCI, anterior cord syndrome, and other specified SCIs significantly decreased since 2003. Complications were common (acute respiratory distress syndrome, 7.8%; anemia, 6.7%; shock, 3.0%; and mortality, 4.2%), with bowel complications, cauda equina, anemia, and shock rates significantly increasing since 2003. Concurrent injuries were common (15.2% ribs; 14.4% skull; 7.1% pelvis) and have significantly increased since 2003. Predictors of SCI included sports injury and CCI. Predictors of surgery included falls, sports injuries, CCI, length of stay, and SCI. CCI, SCIs, and concurrent injuries were predictors of any complication and mortality, all (P < .001). Conclusions Since 2003, incidence, complications, concurrent injuries, and fusions have increased. CCI, SCI, falls, and sports injuries were significant predictors of surgical intervention. Decreased mortality and SCI rates may indicate improving emergency medical services and management guidelines. Level of Evidence III. Clinical Relevance Clinicians should be aware of increased case complexity in the onset of added perioperative complications and concurrent injuries. Cervical fractures resultant of sports injuries should be scrutinized for concurrent SCIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory W Poorman
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Frank A Segreto
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Bryan M Beaubrun
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Cyrus M Jalai
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Samantha R Horn
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Cole A Bortz
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Bassel G Diebo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Shaleen Vira
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Olivia J Bono
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | | | - John Y Moon
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Charles Wang
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Brandon P Hirsch
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Jared C Tishelman
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Peter L Zhou
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Michael Gerling
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Peter G Passias
- Division of Spinal Surgery, Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases at NYU Langone Medical Center, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
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21
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Mallory A, Stammen J, Zhu M. Cervical and thoracic spine injury in pediatric motor vehicle crash passengers. TRAFFIC INJURY PREVENTION 2019; 20:84-92. [PMID: 30715907 DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2018.1529412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Motor vehicle occupants aged 8 to 12 years are in transition, in terms of both restraint use (booster seat or vehicle belt) and anatomical development. Rear-seated occupants in this age group are more likely to be inappropriately restrained than other age groups, increasing their vulnerability to spinal injury. The skeletal anatomy of an 8- to 12-year-old child is also in developmental transition, resulting in spinal injury patterns that are unique to this age group. The objective of this study is to identify the upper spine injuries commonly experienced in the 8- to 12-year-old age group so that anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs) representing this size of occupant can be optimized to predict the risk of these injuries. METHODS Motor vehicle crash cases from the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) were analyzed to characterize the location and nature of cervical and thoracic spine injuries in 8- to 12-year-old crash occupants compared to younger (age 0-7) and older age groups (age 13-19, 20-39). RESULTS Spinal injuries in this trauma center data set tended to occur at more inferior vertebral levels with older age, with patients in the 8- to 12-year-old group diagnosed with thoracic injury more frequently than cervical injury, in contrast to younger occupants, for whom the proportion of cases with cervical injury outnumbered the proportion of cases with thoracic injury. With the cervical spine, a higher proportion of 8- to 12-year-olds had upper spine injury than adults, but a substantially lower proportion of 8- to 12-year-olds had upper spine injury than younger children. In terms of injury type, the 8- to 12-year-old group's injury patterns were more similar to those of teens and adults, with a higher relative proportion of fracture than younger children, who were particularly vulnerable to dislocation and soft tissue injuries. However, unlike for adults and teens, catastrophic atlanto-occipital dislocations were still more common than any other type of dislocation for 8- to 12-year-olds and vertebral body fractures were particularly frequent in this age group. CONCLUSIONS Spinal injury location in the cervical and thoracic spine moved downward with age in this trauma center data set. This shift in injury pattern supports the need for measurement of thoracic and lower cervical spine loading in ATDs representing the 8- to 12-year-old age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mallory
- a Technical Services, Transportation Research Center Inc. , East Liberty , Ohio
- b Ohio State University
| | - Jason Stammen
- c Vehicle Research and Test Center, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration , East Liberty , Ohio
| | - Motao Zhu
- d Nationwide Children's Center for Injury Research and Policy , Columbus , Ohio
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Praneeth K, Karthigeyan M, Salunke P, Ray N. Synchondral Fracture of the Posterior "Hemiarch" of Pediatric Atlas with Cerebrospinal Fluid Fistula following a Penetrating Neck Injury. Pediatr Neurosurg 2019; 54:424-427. [PMID: 31600753 DOI: 10.1159/000503109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As such, the incidence of spinal fractures in young children is less than that of adults due to an increased pliability of the immature bones. The presence of unfused synchondroses in these children predisposes them to an infrequent pattern of fractures that traverse through ossification centers. Such synchondral injuries are uncommonly reported in the C1 and C2 vertebrae. Those that have been occasionally described in C1 involved the anterior synchondrosis. Furthermore, penetrating injuries to a pediatric spine are relatively rare. CASE PRESENTATION In this context, we present a 4-year-old child in whom a penetrating injury to an immature atlas led to an unusual disjunction of the posterior synchondrosis with fracture displacement of the posterior "hemiarch" of the atlas that plunged into the dura, resulting in a cerebrospinal fluid fistula. CONCLUSION We discuss the possible mechanism and considerations in the management of this unique presentation. Such an atypical fracture pattern involving the posterior hemi ring of the pediatric atlas is previously unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kokkula Praneeth
- Department of Neurosurgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Madhivanan Karthigeyan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India,
| | - Pravin Salunke
- Department of Neurosurgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Nirmalya Ray
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
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Abstract
Acute onset of neurological signs and symptoms referable to the spine including difficulty walking, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and paresthesias in the extremities may be manifestations of pediatric spine emergency. Trauma is the most common etiology for a pediatric spinal emergency. Because a history of trauma is often available, the role of imaging involves detection of spinal injuries. Other pathologies such as infection, inflammation, vascular, and neoplasms may lead to pediatric spinal emergencies that also require imaging for assistance in determining the etiology and appropriate management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Suzanne Traylor
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
| | - Stephen F Kralik
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
| | - Rupa Radhakrishnan
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202.
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Quadri SA, Farooqui M, Ikram A, Zafar A, Khan MA, Suriya SS, Claus CF, Fiani B, Rahman M, Ramachandran A, Armstrong IIT, Taqi MA, Mortazavi MM. Recent update on basic mechanisms of spinal cord injury. Neurosurg Rev 2018; 43:425-441. [PMID: 29998371 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-018-1008-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-shattering neurological condition that affects between 250,000 and 500,000 individuals each year with an estimated two to three million people worldwide living with an SCI-related disability. The incidence in the USA and Canada is more than that in other countries with motor vehicle accidents being the most common cause, while violence being most common in the developing nations. Its incidence is two- to fivefold higher in males, with a peak in younger adults. Apart from the economic burden associated with medical care costs, SCI predominantly affects a younger adult population. Therefore, the psychological impact of adaptation of an average healthy individual as a paraplegic or quadriplegic with bladder, bowel, or sexual dysfunction in their early life can be devastating. People with SCI are two to five times more likely to die prematurely, with worse survival rates in low- and middle-income countries. This devastating disorder has a complex and multifaceted mechanism. Recently, a lot of research has been published on the restoration of locomotor activity and the therapeutic strategies. Therefore, it is imperative for the treating physicians to understand the complex underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed A Quadri
- California Institute of Neuroscience, 2100 Lynn Road, Suite 120, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, USA. .,National Skull Base Center, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA.
| | - Mudassir Farooqui
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Asad Ikram
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Atif Zafar
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Muhammad Adnan Khan
- California Institute of Neuroscience, 2100 Lynn Road, Suite 120, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, USA.,National Skull Base Center, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Sajid S Suriya
- California Institute of Neuroscience, 2100 Lynn Road, Suite 120, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, USA.,National Skull Base Center, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Chad F Claus
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. John Providence Hospital and Medical Centers, Michigan State University, Southfield, MI, USA
| | - Brian Fiani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
| | - Mohammed Rahman
- Department of Neurology, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
| | - Anirudh Ramachandran
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Ian I T Armstrong
- California Institute of Neuroscience, 2100 Lynn Road, Suite 120, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, USA.,National Skull Base Center, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Muhammad A Taqi
- California Institute of Neuroscience, 2100 Lynn Road, Suite 120, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, USA.,National Skull Base Center, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Martin M Mortazavi
- California Institute of Neuroscience, 2100 Lynn Road, Suite 120, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, USA.,National Skull Base Center, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
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Saul D, Dresing K. Epidemiology of vertebral fractures in pediatric and adolescent patients. Pediatr Rep 2018; 10:7232. [PMID: 29721244 PMCID: PMC5907726 DOI: 10.4081/pr.2018.7232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal injuries in children and adolescents are rare injuries, but consequences for the growing skeleton can be devastating. Knowledge of accident causes, clinical symptoms and diagnostics should be part of every trauma department treating these patients. We retrospectively analyzed patients with radiographically proven vertebral fractures of the spine. After clinical examination and tentative diagnosis the fractures and injuries were proven with conventional X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The study included 890 fractures in 546 patients with an average age of 12.8±6.2 (6.6-19.4) years. Females had an average age of 13.7±6.3 (7.4-20.0) years, whereas males were on average 12.0 (6.0-18.0) years old. Fall from height (58%) was the main cause of accident and the most common region of fracture was the thoracolumbar spine with a shift towards the thoracic spine the more fractures occurred. Merely 3.7% of all patients required operative treatment. If a vertebral fracture is found in children and adolescents, it is highly recommended to exclude synchronous additional spine fractures in other levels; prevention should concentrate on fall and traffic accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Saul
- Department of Trauma, Orthopedics and Reconstructive Surgery, Georg- August-University of Goettingen, Germany
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26
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Slaar A, Fockens MM, Wang J, Maas M, Wilson DJ, Goslings JC, Schep NWL, van Rijn RR. Triage tools for detecting cervical spine injury in pediatric trauma patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 12:CD011686. [PMID: 29215711 PMCID: PMC6486014 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011686.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric cervical spine injury (CSI) after blunt trauma is rare. Nonetheless, missing these injuries can have severe consequences. To prevent the overuse of radiographic imaging, two clinical decision tools have been developed: The National Emergency X-Radiography Utilization Study (NEXUS) criteria and the Canadian C-spine Rule (CCR). Both tools are proven to be accurate in deciding whether or not diagnostic imaging is needed in adults presenting for blunt trauma screening at the emergency department. However, little information is known about the accuracy of these triage tools in a pediatric population. OBJECTIVES To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the NEXUS criteria and the Canadian C-spine Rule in a pediatric population evaluated for CSI following blunt trauma. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases to 24 February 2015: CENTRAL, MEDLINE, MEDLINE Non-Indexed and In-Process Citations, PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database, OpenGrey, ClinicalTrials.gov, World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, the Health Technology Assessment, and the Aggressive Research Intelligence Facility. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all retrospective and prospective studies involving children following blunt trauma that evaluated the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria, the Canadian C-spine Rule, or both. Plain radiography, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine, and follow-up were considered as adequate reference standards. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed the quality of included studies using the QUADAS-2 checklists. They extracted data on study design, patient characteristics, inclusion and exclusion criteria, clinical parameters, target condition, reference standard, and the diagnostic two-by-two table. We calculated and plotted sensitivity, specificity and negative predictive value in ROC space, and constructed forest plots for visual examination of variation in test accuracy. MAIN RESULTS Three cohort studies were eligible for analysis, including 3380 patients ; 96 children were diagnosed with CSI. One study evaluated the accuracy of the Canadian C-spine Rule and the NEXUS criteria, and two studies evaluated the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria. The studies were of moderate quality. Due to the small number of included studies and the diverse outcomes of those studies, we could not describe a pooled estimate for the diagnostic test accuracy. The sensitivity of the NEXUS criteria of the individual studies was 0.57 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.18 to 0.90), 0.98 (95% CI 0.91 to 1.00) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.88 to 1.00). The specificity of the NEXUS criteria was 0.35 (95% CI 0.25 to 0.45), 0.54 (95% CI 0.45 to 0.62) and 0.2 (95% CI 0.18 to 0.21). For the Canadian C-spine Rule the sensitivity was 0.86 (95% CI 0.42 to 1.00) and specificity was 0.15 (95% CI 0.08 to 0.23). Since the quantity of the data was small we were not able to investigate heterogeneity. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There are currently few studies assessing the diagnostic test accuracy of the NEXUS criteria and CCR in children. At the moment, there is not enough evidence to determine the accuracy of the Canadian C-spine Rule to detect CSI in pediatric trauma patients following blunt trauma. The confidence interval of the sensitivity of the NEXUS criteria between the individual studies showed a wide range, with a lower limit varying from 0.18 to 0.91 with a total of four false negative test results, meaning that if physicians use the NEXUS criteria in children, there is a chance of missing CSI. Since missing CSI could have severe consequences with the risk of significant morbidity, we consider that the NEXUS criteria are at best a guide to clinical assessment, with current evidence not supporting strict or protocolized adoption of the tool into pediatric trauma care. Moreover, we have to keep in mind that the sensitivity differs among several studies, and individual confidence intervals of these studies show a wide range. Our main conclusion is therefore that additional well-designed studies with large sample sizes are required to better evaluate the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria or the Canadian C-spine Rule, or both, in order to determine whether they are appropriate triage tools for the clearance of the cervical spine in children following blunt trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelie Slaar
- WestfriesgasthuisDepartment of RadiologyMaelsonstraat 3HoornNoord HollandNetherlands1624 NP
| | - M M Fockens
- University of AmsterdamAcademic Medical CenterAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Academic Medical CenterDepartment of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and BioinformaticsMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105 AZ
| | - Mario Maas
- Academic Medical CenterDepartment of RadiologyUniversity of AmsterdamMeibergdreefAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - David J Wilson
- St Lukes HospitalDepartment of RadiologyLatimer RoadHeadingtonOxfordUKOX3 7PF
| | - J Carel Goslings
- Academic Medical CenterTrauma Unit, Department of SurgeryMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105 AZ
| | - Niels WL Schep
- Academic Medical CenterDepartment of Surgery/Trauma UnitMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105AZ
| | - Rick R van Rijn
- Academic Medical Center AmsterdamDepartment of RadiologyMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105 AZ
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Beez T, Brown J. Traumatic atlanto-occipital dislocation in children-a case-based update on clinical characteristics, management and outcome. Childs Nerv Syst 2017; 33:27-33. [PMID: 27757567 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-016-3265-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atlanto-occipital dislocation (AOD) is a rare but severe sequela of high energy trauma. Children are at increased risk, due to their immature spine and biomechanical characteristics. LITERATURE REVIEW The prevailing mechanism of injury is motor vehicle collision as passenger. AOD commonly presents with cardiorespiratory arrest, spinal cord injury or cranial nerve deficits. Concomitant injuries, such as traumatic brain injury, are frequently encountered. Diagnosis is made on CT and MRI imaging. Posterior internal fixation is the recommended treatment. Thirty-four percent of patients die, 41 % survive with deficits and 25 % have a complete neurological recovery. Initial symptoms, GCS score and degree of spinal cord injury appear to be predictors of outcome. ILLUSTRATIVE CASE We report the case of a 9-year-old boy, who presented in extremis with cardiac arrest after a motor vehicle collision. Upon successful resuscitation, diagnostic imaging showed AOD and a Chiari I malformation. An occiput-C2 posterior instrumented fusion was performed. The patient subsequently received intensive rehabilitation and recovered to independent ambulation, with a persistent, asymptomatic Chiari I malformation. CONCLUSION This case highlights the potential for positive outcome in paediatric AOD, despite the presence of strong predictors of poor or fatal outcome at presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Beez
- Paediatric Neurosurgery, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Jennifer Brown
- Paediatric Neurosurgery, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK
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28
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Madura CJ, Johnston JM. Classification and Management of Pediatric Subaxial Cervical Spine Injuries. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2016; 28:91-102. [PMID: 27886885 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Appropriate management of subaxial spine injury in children requires an appreciation for the differences in anatomy, biomechanics, injury patterns, and treatment options compared with adult patients. Increased flexibility, weak neck muscles, and cranial disproportion predispose younger children to upper cervical injuries and spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality. A majority of subaxial cervical spine injuries can be treated nonoperatively. Surgical instrumentation options for children have significantly increased in recent years. Future studies of outcomes for children with subaxial cervical spine injury should focus on injury classification and standardized outcome measures to ensure continued improvement in quality of care for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey J Madura
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Avenue South, Lowder Suite 400, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, USA
| | - James M Johnston
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Avenue South, Lowder Suite 400, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, USA.
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29
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Cervical sagittal alignment variations in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients treated with thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthosis. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2016; 26:1217-1224. [DOI: 10.1007/s00586-016-4884-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Revised: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Baumann F, Ernstberger T, Neumann C, Nerlich M, Schroeder GD, Vaccaro AR, Loibl M. Pediatric Cervical Spine Injuries: A Rare But Challenging Entity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 28:E377-84. [PMID: 26165728 DOI: 10.1097/bsd.0000000000000307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injuries to the cervical spine in pediatric patients are uncommon. A missed injury can have devastating consequences in this age group. Because of the lack of routine in diagnosis and management of pediatric cervical spine injuries (PCSI), each of these cases represents a logistic and personal challenge. METHODS By means of clinical cases, we demonstrate key points in diagnostics and treatment of pediatric spine injuries. We highlight typical pediatric injury patterns and more adult-like injuries. RESULTS The most common cause of injury is blunt trauma. There is an age-related pattern of injuries in pediatric patients. Children under the age of 8 frequently sustain ligamentous injuries in the upper cervical spine. After the age of 8, the biomechanics of the cervical spine are similar to adults, and therefore, bony injuries of the subaxial cervical spine are most likely to occur. Clinical presentation of PCSI is heterogeneous. Younger children can neither interpret nor communicate neurological abnormalities, which make timely and accurate diagnosis difficult. Plain radiographs are often misinterpreted. We find different types of injuries at different locations, because of different biomechanical properties of the immature spine. We outline that initial management is crucial for long-term outcome. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge of biomechanical properties and radiographic presentation of the immature spine can improve the awareness for PCSI. Diagnosis and management of pediatric patients after neck trauma can be demanding. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Baumann
- *Department of Trauma Surgery, Regensburg University Medical Center, Regensburg, Germany †The Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
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Lemley K, Bauer P. Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury: Recognition of Injury and Initial Resuscitation, in Hospital Management, and Coordination of Care. J Pediatr Intensive Care 2015; 4:27-34. [PMID: 31110847 DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1554986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury is uncommon in the pediatric population with a lifelong impact for the patient and family. Knowledge of spine embryology, mechanisms of injury that lead to specific injuries, appropriate utilization of radiographic imaging based on suspected injury, prehospital and hospital management of various spinal cord injuries is essential for providers attending to traumatically injured patients. In addition to patients who present with soft tissue and bony injuries diagnosed with clinical examination and confirmed with computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, it is important to note that the pediatric population is at a higher risk for spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality than the adult population. Patients who survive the acute phase of injury face long-term rehabilitation and have an increased risk of depression and mortality. Understanding the long-term sequelae of spinal cord injuries is also an essential management component of traumatically injured children. A program that provides long-term rehabilitation, psychosocial and spiritual support, and adaptive environmental supports gives patients and their families the best opportunity for long-term recovery. A review of the current literature on the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of pediatric spinal cord injury is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Lemley
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, Children's Mercy Hospital and Clinics, Kansas City, Missouri, United States
| | - Paul Bauer
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, Children's Mercy Hospital and Clinics, Kansas City, Missouri, United States
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32
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Jain A, Brooks JT, Rao SS, Ain MC, Sponseller PD. Cervical fractures with associated spinal cord injury in children and adolescents: epidemiology, costs, and in-hospital mortality rates in 4418 patients. J Child Orthop 2015; 9:171-5. [PMID: 25953413 PMCID: PMC4486498 DOI: 10.1007/s11832-015-0657-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical spine fractures with spinal cord injury (CFSCI) can be devastating. We describe the epidemiology of children and adolescents with CFSCI. METHODS Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database, we identified 4418 patients (≤18 years old) who had CFSCI from 2000 through 2010. Outcomes of interest were patient characteristics (age, sex), injury characteristics [fracture location, spinal cord injury (SCI) pattern], economic variables (duration of hospital stay, total hospital charges), and mortality. RESULTS Upper cervical fractures (UCFs) occurred half as often (31.4 %) as lower cervical fractures (LCFs; 68.8 %). Among patients <8 years old, 73.6 % had UCFs; among patients ≥8 years old, 72.3 % had LCFs. Overall, 68.7 % had incomplete SCI, 22.4 % had complete SCI, 6.6 % had central cord syndrome, and 2.3 % had anterior cord syndrome. Patients with complete SCI had the longest hospital stays and highest hospital charges. The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 7.3 %, with a sixfold higher rate in patients <8 (30.6 %) vs. those ≥8 (5.1 %) years old (p < 0.001). There was a threefold higher mortality rate in patients with upper (13.5 %) vs. lower (4.3 %) cervical fractures (p < 0.001). Patients with complete SCI had a 1.85-fold higher mortality rate than patients with other cord syndromes (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Patients <8 years old were more likely than older patients to sustain UCFs. Patients with UCFs had a significantly higher mortality rate than those with LCFs. Patients with complete SCI had the longest duration of hospital stay and highest hospital charges and in-hospital mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Jain
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline Street, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Jaysson T. Brooks
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline Street, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Sandesh S. Rao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline Street, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Michael C. Ain
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline Street, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Paul D. Sponseller
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline Street, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
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Neonatal C1 TO C2 osteomyelitis leading to instability and neurological decline: novel treatment with occiput-C1-C2 fusion and occiput to thorax growing rods. A case report. J Pediatr Orthop 2015; 35:379-84. [PMID: 25171676 DOI: 10.1097/bpo.0000000000000309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vertebral osteomyelitis of the upper cervical spine requiring surgical treatment in children is rare. Surgical treatment of the immature spine is commonly associated with certain risks and complications. We describe a unique treatment approach for a young child that required emergent stabilization of the upper cervical spine due to progressive instability caused by osteomyelitis. METHODS A 3-month-old infant with neurological decline from progressive instability of the occiput C1 and C2 was admitted for surgical treatment after failed bracing. The patient had reduction and occiput to C2 posterior fusion and segmental instrumentation, with nonsegmental instrumentation extending in the soft tissues from C2 to T4 with the intent of providing stabilization without fusion and permitting further growth. RESULTS The implants were removed 1 year after the original procedure. At 2 years following implant removal, he continued to have mild global developmental delay but was progressing well and was able to navigate independently with a posterior walker, using AFOs for support. Subaxial cervical motion and x-ray appearance were normal. CONCLUSIONS The technique used here to overcome the difficulty of providing secure immobilization of the craniocervical junction while not creating inadvertent fusion of the subaxial cervical spine may have application in other clinical situations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V.
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34
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Slaar A, Fockens MM, Wang J, Maas M, Wilson DJ, Goslings JC, Schep NWL, van Rijn RR. Triage tools for detecting cervical spine injury in pediatric trauma patients. Hippokratia 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Annelie Slaar
- Academic Medical Center (AMC); Department of Radiology; Amsterdam Netherlands 1105 AZ
| | | | - Junfeng Wang
- Academic Medical Center; Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics; Meibergdreef 9 Amsterdam Netherlands 1105 AZ
| | - Mario Maas
- Academic Medical Center; Department of Radiology; University of Amsterdam Meibergdreef Amsterdam Netherlands
| | - David J Wilson
- St Lukes Hospital; Department of Radiology; Latimer Road Headington Oxford UK OX3 7PF
| | - J Carel Goslings
- Academic Medical Center; Trauma Unit, Department of Surgery; Meibergdreef 9 Amsterdam Netherlands 1105 AZ
| | - Niels WL Schep
- Academic Medical Center; Department of Surgery/Trauma Unit; Meibergdreef 9 Amsterdam Netherlands 1105AZ
| | - Rick R van Rijn
- Academic Medical Center Amsterdam; Department of Radiology; Meibergdreef 9 Amsterdam Netherlands 1105 AZ
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Parikh RN, Muranjan M, Karande S, Sankhe S. Atlas shrugged: cervical myelopathy caused by congenital atlantoaxial dislocation aggravated by child labor. Pediatr Neurol 2014; 50:380-3. [PMID: 24486223 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2013.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Revised: 11/14/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Symptomatic atlantoaxial dislocation is common in predisposing genetic or acquired disorders. However, an isolated atlantoaxial dislocation frequently is congenital and silent unless discovered during course of evaluation for neurological symptoms of cervical spinal cord injury attributed to minor or chronic, repetitive trauma. PATIENT A 12-year-old girl working as a farm laborer developed calf pain provoked by walking, which increased in severity and progressed to involve the upper limbs. It was followed by progressive ascending quadriplegia. The illness resembled acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy with respiratory involvement. Presence of "claw" hands bilaterally and wasting of intrinsic muscles of the hands led to the suspicion of a cervical myelopathy. RESULT Neuroimaging confirmed a congenital atlantoaxial dislocation with basilar invagination. The absence of abnormal signals in the cervical spinal cord was unusual. The symptomatic congenital atlantoaxial dislocation was postulated to be precipitated by chronic trauma suffered while habitually carrying heavy loads on the head and leading to spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormalities. Correction via surgery was successful. CONCLUSIONS Congenital atlantoaxial dislocation should be suspected in a clinical setting of neurological symptoms of cervical spinal cord injury without obvious trauma or predisposing primary diseases. Prompt cervical spine imaging reveals the correct diagnosis. Physicians in countries in which child labor is rampant should be aware of the potential complications of cervical cord injuries from child labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roneil N Parikh
- Department of Pediatrics, Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College and King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Mamta Muranjan
- Department of Pediatrics, Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College and King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India.
| | - Sunil Karande
- Department of Pediatrics, Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College and King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Shilpa Sankhe
- Department of Radiology, Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College and King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
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Special considerations in the interpretation of plain radiographs of the cervical spine in children. A review of the literature. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2013; 39:647-52. [PMID: 26815550 DOI: 10.1007/s00068-013-0305-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2013] [Accepted: 05/19/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review provides an overview of the special considerations with regard to correct diagnosis of plain radiographs of the pediatric cervical spine. Injuries to the cervical spine are rare in children. The leading trauma mechanism is motor vehicle injury. Plain radiographs are a common tool in the search for a diagnosis. Taking the growth process into account there are many differences to be found compared to the adult c-spine. Knowledge of these differences is important when working towards the correct interpretation of plain radiographs of the pediatric c-spine. METHODS To create this review, a literature search of the electronic databases Cochrane, PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase was conducted. RESULTS Special considerations of plain radiographs of the pediatric c-spine are presented. Biomechanical and embryology specifics have been a focus of this review. They are explained relating on the development of the c-spine. The known auxiliary lines used in the interpreting of the pediatric c-spine are reported. A selection of these auxiliary lines is shown. CONCLUSION Knowledge of the c-spines characteristics is of major importance for every physician involved in pediatric trauma care. This could lead to not only avoiding misdiagnosis but could also lead to avoiding the overuse of computed tomography of the pediatric c-spine.
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Developmental biomechanics of the human cervical spine. J Biomech 2013; 46:1147-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2013.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2012] [Revised: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Severe spinal cord injury in craniocervical dislocation. Case-based update. Childs Nerv Syst 2013; 29:187-94. [PMID: 22961360 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-012-1915-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Accepted: 08/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Craniocervical distraction injuries, including atlanto-axial dislocation (AAD) and atlanto-ocipital dislocation (AOD), are often associated with severe spinal cord involvement with high morbidity and mortality rates. Many patients with these injuries die at the accident scene, but advances in emergency resuscitation and transport permit that many patients arrive alive to hospitals. DISCUSSION Children with craniocervical distraction injuries usually present with a severe cranioencephalic traumatism that is the most relevant lesion at admission. After resuscitation and hemodynamic stabilization, the spinal cord damage appears as the main lesion. Apnea and quadriparesis, or quadriplegia, are usually present at the onset. Early diagnosis and management perhaps decrease life-threatening manifestations of the spinal lesion. But even so, the primary spinal cord insult is often irreversible and precludes obtaining a satisfactory functional outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS We report the findings of four children with craniocervical distraction injuries (AOD and AAD) who presented with severe spinal cord damage. All patients were admitted with respiratory distress or apnea together with significant brain injuries. The medical records pertaining to these patients are summarized in regard to clinical features, management, and outcome. CONCLUSIONS In spite of timely and aggressive management, craniocervical injuries with spinal cord involvement continue to have a dismal prognosis. Outcome is closely related to the severity of the initial brain and spinal cord damage and is nearly always fatal in cases of complete spinal cord transection. Priority should be given to life-threatening complications. Ethic issues on indications for surgery deserve a detailed discussion with the children's parents.
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Yi P, Dong L, Tan M, Wang W, Tang X, Yang F, Zhang G. Clinical application of a revised screw technique via the C1 posterior arch and lateral mass in the pediatric population. Pediatr Neurosurg 2013; 49:159-65. [PMID: 24603124 DOI: 10.1159/000358807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pediatric patients with insufficient height (≤4 mm) of the C1 posterior arch may restrict atlas screw placement via the posterior arch and lateral mass (PALM). For these patients, we modified this technique, called the 'pedicle exposure technique' (PET). We aimed to analyze the clinical feasibility and safety of the PET in the pediatric population. METHODS Twenty pediatric patients with atlantoaxial instability (AAI) were enrolled in this study. The average C1 posterior arch was 3.1 (2.5-3.9) mm on CT scan. All patients underwent the C1 PET and C2 pedicle screw fixation. The imaging was performed to evaluate the accuracy of screw placement and bony fusion. RESULTS Forty screws were inserted via C1 PALM using the PET. Venous plexus bleeding occurred in 1 patient and the internal wall of the C1 lateral mass was perforated in 1 patient. There were no perioperative neurological deficits or vertebral artery injury. Follow-up was performed in all 20 cases over a period ranging from 6 to 80 months. Bony union was seen within 3-6 months. At the final follow-up visit, 14 patients had experienced an improvement, while 6 had complete resolution of their neck pain. Myelopathy symptoms were improved in 9 patients with spinal compression. CONCLUSION The PET is an effective alternative for pediatric AAI when the height of the C1 posterior arch is <4 mm. Because of the higher screw entry point through the C1 posterior arch, there is effective biomechanical stability and less irritation of the venous plexus and C2 nerve root.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review. OBJECTIVE To determine the incidence and clinical characteristics of noncontiguous spinal injuries (NCSI) in a pediatric population. The secondary objective is to identify high-risk patients requiring further imaging to rule out NCSI. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA NCSI can add significant complexity to the diagnosis, management, and outcome of children. There is very little in the pediatric literature examining the nature, associated risk factors, management, and outcomes of NCSI. METHODS All children up to 18 years of age with a spinal injury, as defined by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes, at one pediatric trauma hospital were included (n = 211). Data for patient demographics, mechanism of injury, spinal levels involved, extent of neurological injury and recovery, associated injuries, medical complications, treatment, and outcome were recorded. RESULTS Twenty-five (11.8%) of 211 patients had NCSI, with a median age of 13.0 years (interquartile range = 8-15). The most common pattern of injury was a double thoracic noncontiguous injury. Sixteen percent of the cases of NCSI were initially missed, with no clinical deterioration due to missed diagnosis. Associated injuries occurred in 44% of patients with NCSI. Twenty-four percent of patients with multiple NCSI had a neurological injury compared with 9.7% in patients with single-level or contiguous injuries (P = 0.046). CONCLUSION There is a high incidence of children with multiple NCSI who are more likely to experience neurological injuries compared with patients with single-level or contiguous spinal injuries. Patients with a single-level spinal injury on existing imaging with an associated neurological injury should undergo at least plain films of the entire spine to exclude noncontiguous injuries. In patients without neurological injury and a single spinal fracture, radiography showing at least 4 levels above and below the fracture should be performed. All children with spinal injury should have associated injuries carefully excluded.
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