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Cronin AE, Liebig P, Detombe SA, Duggal N, Bartha R. Reproducibility of 3D pH-weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer contrast in the healthy cervical spinal cord. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2024; 37:e5103. [PMID: 38243648 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.5103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord ischemia and hypoxia can be caused by compression, injury, and vascular alterations. Measuring ischemia and hypoxia directly in the spinal cord noninvasively remains challenging. Ischemia and hypoxia alter tissue pH, providing a physiologic parameter that may be more directly related to tissue viability. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) is an MRI contrast mechanism that can be made sensitive to pH. More specifically, amine/amide concentration independent detection (AACID) is a recently developed endogenous CEST contrast that has demonstrated sensitivity to intracellular pH at 9.4 T. The goal of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of AACID CEST measurements at different levels of the healthy cervical spinal cord at 3.0 T incorporating B1 correction. Using a 3.0 T MRI scanner, two 3D CEST scans (saturation pulse train followed by a 3D snapshot gradient-echo readout) were performed on 12 healthy subjects approximately 10 days apart, with the CEST volume centered at the C4 level for all subjects. Scan-rescan reproducibility was evaluated by examining between and within-subject coefficients of variation (CVs) and absolute AACID value differences. The C4 level of the spinal cord demonstrated the lowest within-subject CVs (4.1%-4.3%), between-subject CVs (5.6%-6.3%), and absolute AACID percent difference (5.8-6.1%). The B1 correction scheme significantly improved reproducibility (adjusted p-value = 0.002) compared with the noncorrected data, suggesting that implementing B1 corrections in the spinal cord is beneficial. It was concluded that pH-weighted AACID measurements, incorporating B1-inhomogeneity correction, were reproducible within subjects along the healthy cervical spinal cord and that optimal image quality was achieved at the center of the 3D CEST volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia E Cronin
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Sarah A Detombe
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neil Duggal
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert Bartha
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Lebret A, Lévy S, Pfender N, Farshad M, Altorfer FCS, Callot V, Curt A, Freund P, Seif M. Investigation of perfusion impairment in degenerative cervical myelopathy beyond the site of cord compression. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22660. [PMID: 38114733 PMCID: PMC10730822 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49896-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine tissue-specific blood perfusion impairment of the cervical cord above the compression site in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) using intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging. A quantitative MRI protocol, including structural and IVIM imaging, was conducted in healthy controls and patients. In patients, T2-weighted scans were acquired to quantify intramedullary signal changes, the maximal canal compromise, and the maximal cord compression. T2*-weighted MRI and IVIM were applied in all participants in the cervical cord (covering C1-C3 levels) to determine white matter (WM) and grey matter (GM) cross-sectional areas (as a marker of atrophy), and tissue-specific perfusion indices, respectively. IVIM imaging resulted in microvascular volume fraction ([Formula: see text]), blood velocity ([Formula: see text]), and blood flow ([Formula: see text]) indices. DCM patients additionally underwent a standard neurological clinical assessment. Regression analysis assessed associations between perfusion parameters, clinical outcome measures, and remote spinal cord atrophy. Twenty-nine DCM patients and 30 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. At the level of stenosis, 11 patients showed focal radiological evidence of cervical myelopathy. Above the stenosis level, cord atrophy was observed in the WM (- 9.3%; p = 0.005) and GM (- 6.3%; p = 0.008) in patients compared to healthy controls. Blood velocity (BV) and blood flow (BF) indices were decreased in the ventral horns of the GM (BV: - 20.1%, p = 0.0009; BF: - 28.2%, p = 0.0008), in the ventral funiculi (BV: - 18.2%, p = 0.01; BF: - 21.5%, p = 0.04) and lateral funiculi (BV: - 8.5%, p = 0.03; BF: - 16.5%, p = 0.03) of the WM, across C1-C3 levels. A decrease in microvascular volume fraction was associated with GM atrophy (R = 0.46, p = 0.02). This study demonstrates tissue-specific cervical perfusion impairment rostral to the compression site in DCM patients. IVIM indices are sensitive to remote perfusion changes in the cervical cord in DCM and may serve as neuroimaging biomarkers of hemodynamic impairment in future studies. The association between perfusion impairment and cervical cord atrophy indicates that changes in hemodynamics caused by compression may contribute to the neurodegenerative processes in DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lebret
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Simon Lévy
- CNRS, CRMBM, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- APHM, CEMEREM, Hôpital Universitaire Timone, Marseille, France
- MR Research Collaborations, Siemens Healthcare Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nikolai Pfender
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Mazda Farshad
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Balgrist University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Virginie Callot
- CNRS, CRMBM, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- APHM, CEMEREM, Hôpital Universitaire Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Armin Curt
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Freund
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Wellcome Trust Center for Neuroimaging, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Neurophysics, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maryam Seif
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurophysics, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany.
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Chen G, Lin C, Zhu Z, Tong K, Li S, Chen H, Xu Z, Chen N, Liu X, Liu S. Increased blood flow of spinal cord lesion after decompression improves neurological recovery of degenerative cervical myelopathy: an intraoperative ultrasonography-based prospective cohort study. Int J Surg 2023; 109:1149-1157. [PMID: 36999826 PMCID: PMC10389533 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000000361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Surgical decompression is a highly effective therapy for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), but the mechanisms of neurological recovery following decompression remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the spinal cord blood flow status after sufficient decompression by intraoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) and to analyze the correlation between neurological recovery and postdecompressive spinal cord blood perfusion in DCM. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with multilevel DCM were treated by ultrasound-guided modified French-door laminoplasty using a self-developed rongeur. Neurological function was evaluated using the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score preoperatively and at 12 months postoperatively. Spinal cord compression and cervical canal enlargement before and after surgery were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomography. The decompression status was evaluated in real time by intraoperative ultrasonography, while the spinal cord blood flow after sufficient decompression was assessed by CEUS. Patients were categorized as favourable (≥50%) or unfavourable (<50%) recovery according to the recovery rate of the mJOA score at 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients were included in the study. The mJOA scores were significantly improved in all patients from 11.2±2.1 preoperatively to 15.0±1.1 at 12 months postoperatively, with an average recovery rate of 64.9±16.2%. Computerized tomography and intraoperative ultrasonography confirmed adequate enlargement of the cervical canal and sufficient decompression of the spinal cord, respectively. CEUS revealed that patients with favourable neurological recovery had a greater increased blood flow signal in the compressive spinal cord segment after decompression. CONCLUSIONS In DCM, intraoperative CEUS can clearly reflect spinal cord blood flow. Patients with increased blood perfusion of the spinal cord lesion immediately after surgical decompression tended to achieve greater neurological recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoliang Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Guangdong Provincial Biomedical Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
| | - Chengkai Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Guangdong Provincial Biomedical Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
| | - Zhengya Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Guangdong Provincial Biomedical Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
| | - Kuileung Tong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Guangdong Provincial Biomedical Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
| | - Shiming Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Guangdong Provincial Biomedical Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
| | - Hongkun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Guangdong Provincial Biomedical Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
| | - Zuofeng Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ningning Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Biomedical Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Department of Orthopedic Surgery
| | - Xizhe Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
| | - Shaoyu Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology/Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
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Liu F, Huang Y, Wang H. Rodent Models of Spinal Cord Injury: From Pathology to Application. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:340-361. [PMID: 36303082 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03794-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) often has devastating consequences for the patient's physical, mental and occupational health. At present, there is no effective treatment for SCI, and appropriate animal models are very important for studying the pathological manifestations, injury mechanisms, and corresponding treatment. However, the pathological changes in each injury model are different, which creates difficulties in selecting appropriate models for different research purposes. In this article, we analyze various SCI models and introduce their pathological features, including inflammation, glial scar formation, axon regeneration, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and oxidative stress, and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each model, which is convenient for selecting suitable models for different injury mechanisms to study therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuze Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China.
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Long HQ, Ren ZX, Xu JH, Cheng X, Xu GX. Pathophysiological mechanisms of chronic compressive spinal cord injury due to vascular events. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:790-796. [DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.353485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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In vivo imaging in experimental spinal cord injury – Techniques and trends. BRAIN AND SPINE 2022; 2:100859. [PMID: 36248104 PMCID: PMC9560701 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2021.100859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is one of the leading causes of disability in the world. Treatment is limited to supportive care and no curative therapy exists. Experimental research to understand the complex pathophysiology and potential mediators of spinal cord regeneration is essential to develop innovative translational therapies. A multitude of experimental imaging methods to monitor spinal cord regeneration in vivo have developed over the last years. However, little literature exists to deal with advanced imaging methods specifically available in SCI research. Research Question This systematic literature review examines the current standards in experimental imaging in SCI allowing for in vivo imaging of spinal cord regeneration on a neuronal, vascular, and cellular basis. Material and Methods Articles were included meeting the following criteria: experimental research, original studies, rodent subjects, and intravital imaging. Reviewed in detail are microstructural and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Micro-Computed Tomography, Laser Speckle Imaging, Very High Resolution Ultrasound, and in vivo microscopy techniques. Results Following the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews, 689 articles were identified for review, of which 492 were sorted out after screening and an additional 104 after detailed review. For qualitative synthesis 93 articles were included in this publication. Discussion and Conclusion With this study we give an up-to-date overview about modern experimental imaging techniques with the potential to advance the knowledge on spinal cord regeneration following SCI. A thorough knowledge of the strengths and limitations of the reviewed techniques will help to optimally exploit our current experimental armamentarium in the field. In vivo imaging is essential to enhance the understanding of SCI pathophysiology. Multiple experimental imaging methods have evolved over the past years. Detailed review of in vivo (f)MRI, μCT, VHRUS, and Microcopy in experimental SCI. Experimental imaging allows for longitudinal examination to the cellular level. Knowledge of the strengths and limitations is essential for future research.
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Yu Z, Cheng X, Chen J, Huang Z, He S, Hu H, Lin S, Zou Z, Huang F, Chen B, Wan Y, Peng X, Zou X. Spinal Cord Parenchyma Vascular Redistribution Underlies Hemodynamic and Neurophysiological Changes at Dynamic Neck Positions in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. Front Neuroanat 2021; 15:729482. [PMID: 34887731 PMCID: PMC8650056 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2021.729482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a degenerative condition of the spine that caused by static and dynamic compression of the spinal cord. However, the mechanisms of motor and somatosensory conduction, as well as pathophysiological changes at dynamic neck positions remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the interplay between neurophysiological and hemodynamic responses at dynamic neck positions in the CSM condition, and the pathological basis behind. We first demonstrated that CSM patients had more severe dynamic motor evoked potentials (DMEPs) deteriorations upon neck flexion than upon extension, while their dynamic somatosensory evoked potentials (DSSEPs) deteriorated to a similar degree upon extension and flexion. We therefore generated a CSM rat model which developed similar neurophysiological characteristics within a 4-week compression period. At 4 weeks-post-injury, these rats presented decreased spinal cord blood flow (SCBF) and oxygen saturation (SO2) at the compression site, especially upon cervical flexion. The dynamic change of DMEPs was significantly correlated with the change in SCBF from neutral to flexion, suggesting they were more sensitive to ischemia compared to DSSEPs. We further demonstrated significant vascular redistribution in the spinal cord parenchyma, caused by angiogenesis mainly concentrated in the anterior part of the compressed site. In addition, the comparative ratio of vascular densities at the anterior and posterior parts of the cord was significantly correlated with the perfusion decrease at neck flexion. This exploratory study revealed that the motor and somatosensory conductive functions of the cervical cord changed differently at dynamic neck positions in CSM conditions. Compared with somatosensory conduction, the motor conductive function of the cervical cord suffered more severe deteriorations upon cervical flexion, which could partly be attributed to its higher susceptibility to spinal cord ischemia. The uneven angiogenesis and vascular distribution in the spinal cord parenchyma might underlie the transient ischemia of the cord at flexion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengran Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xing Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiacheng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Huang
- Institute of Neuroanatomy and Cell Biology, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Shaofu He
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sixiong Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyuan Zou
- Department of Orthopedic, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Fangli Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bolin Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Wan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinsheng Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuenong Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Tadokoro N, Hashimoto K, Yanagawa Y, Maehara H, Sano T. Nerve root morphological and functional changes after degenerative cervical myelopathy surgery: preliminary study using ultrasound and electrophysiology. Spinal Cord 2021; 60:301-305. [PMID: 34556821 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-021-00707-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A prospective observational study. OBJECTIVES To depict morphological and functional changes in the cervical nerve roots before and after spinal cord decompression surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). SETTING A general hospital in Japan. METHODS Thirteen DCM patients who underwent posterior spinal cord decompression surgery, laminoplasty or laminectomy, were included in this study. The neural foramen shown on MRI and the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the nerve roots on ultrasound were used to evaluate the C5 and C6 nerve roots. The compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) of deltoid and biceps muscle were also recorded. RESULTS All patients showed sensorimotor functional improvement without the postoperative C5 palsy after surgery. Foraminal stenosis and preoperative CSA of the nerve root: C4/5 foramen and C5 nerve root, C5/6 foramen and C6 nerve root, had no significant correlation (P = 0.53 and 0.08). CSA of the C5 nerve root displayed no significant change before and after surgery (P = 0.2), however, that of the C6 nerve root reduced significantly after surgery (P = 0.038). The amplitude of the deltoid and biceps CMAPs displayed no significant change before and after surgery (P = 0.05 and 0.05). CONCLUSION The C6 nerve root CSA change was observed after spinal cord decompression surgery with functional recovery. However, deltoid and biceps CMAPs amplitude showed no significant change. Independent CSA changes on ultrasound might be useful when conducting a functional evaluation of the postoperative nerve root. SPONSORSHIP The Grant of Japan Orthopaedics and Traumatology Research Foundation No. 395.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuaki Tadokoro
- Department of Orthopaedic surgery, Kochi prefectural Hata Kenmin hospital, Sukumo, Kochi, Japan
| | - Kyuichi Hashimoto
- Department of Orthopaedic surgery, Kochi prefectural Hata Kenmin hospital, Sukumo, Kochi, Japan
| | - Yuki Yanagawa
- Department of Orthopaedic surgery, Kochi prefectural Hata Kenmin hospital, Sukumo, Kochi, Japan
| | - Haruka Maehara
- Department of Orthopaedic surgery, Kochi prefectural Hata Kenmin hospital, Sukumo, Kochi, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Sano
- Department of Orthopaedic surgery, Kochi prefectural Hata Kenmin hospital, Sukumo, Kochi, Japan.
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Cheng X, Yu Z, Xu J, Quan D, Long H. Pathophysiological Changes and the Role of Notch-1 Activation After Decompression in a Compressive Spinal Cord Injury Rat Model. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:579431. [PMID: 33584186 PMCID: PMC7876297 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.579431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Surgical decompression is the primary treatment for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) patients with compressive spinal cord injury (CSCI). However, the prognosis of patients with CSCI varies, and the pathophysiological changes following decompression remain poor. This study aimed to investigate the pathophysiological changes and the role of Notch-1 activation after decompression in a rat CSCI model. Surgical decompression was conducted at 1 week post-injury (wpi). DAPT was intraperitoneally injected to down-regulate Notch-1 expression. Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scores and an inclined plane test were used to evaluate the motor function recovery. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to assess pathophysiological changes, while hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), von Willebrand factor (vWF), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, MMP-2, Notch-1, and Hes-1 expression in the spinal cord were examined by immunohistochemical analysis or quantitative PCR. The results show that early decompression can partially promote motor function recovery. Improvements in structural and cellular damage and hypoxic levels were also observed in the decompressed spinal cord. Moreover, decompression resulted in increased VEGF and vWF expression, but decreased MMP-9 and MMP-2 expression at 3 wpi. Expression levels of Notch-1 and its downstream gene Hes-1 were increased after decompression, and the inhibition of Notch-1 significantly reduced the decompression-induced motor function recovery. This exploratory study revealed preliminary pathophysiological changes in the compressed and decompressed rat spinal cord. Furthermore, we confirmed that early surgical decompression partially promotes motor function recovery may via activation of the Notch-1 signaling pathway after CSCI. These results could provide new insights for the development of drug therapy to enhance recovery following surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Cheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengran Yu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghui Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daping Quan
- PCFM Lab, GD HPPC Lab, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Houqing Long
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Cheng X, Xu J, Yu Z, Xu J, Long H. LncRNA Xist Contributes to Endogenous Neurological Repair After Chronic Compressive Spinal Cord Injury by Promoting Angiogenesis Through the miR-32-5p/Notch-1 Axis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:744. [PMID: 32850853 PMCID: PMC7423840 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous repair after chronic compressive spinal cord injury (CCSCI) is of great clinical interest. Ischemia-hypoxia-induced angiogenesis has been proposed to play an important role during this repair process. Emerging evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in the pathophysiological processes of various diseases. Here, we identified a lncRNA (Xist; X-inactive specific transcript) with upregulated expression in cervical spine lesions during endogenous neurological repair in CCSCI rats. Therapeutically, the introduction of Xist to rats increased neurological function in vivo as assayed using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) score and inclined plane test (IPT). We found that the introduction of Xist enhanced endogenous neurological repair by promoting angiogenesis and microvessel density after CCSCI, while depletion of Xist inhibited angiogenesis and cell sprouting and migration. Mechanistically, Xist promoted angiogenesis by sponging miR-32-5p and modulating Notch-1 expression both in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest a role of the Xist/miR-32-5p/Notch-1 axis in endogenous repair and provide a potential molecular target for the treatment of ischemia-related central nervous system (CNS) diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Cheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengran Yu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghui Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Houqing Long
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Jiang L, Cao Y, Liu Z, Ni S, Liu J, Ha Y, Luo Z, Li C, Liu S, Li J, Yin X, Wu T, Lu H, Hu J. SRμCT Reveals 3D Microstructural Alterations of the Vascular and Neuronal Network in a Rat Model of Chronic Compressive Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury. Aging Dis 2020; 11:603-617. [PMID: 32489705 PMCID: PMC7220295 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2019.0529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex pathology of chronic thoracic spinal cord compression involves vascular and neuroarchitectural repair processes that are still largely unknown. In this study, we used synchrotron radiation microtomography (SRμCT) to quantitatively characterize the 3D temporal-spatial changes in the vascular and neuronal network after chronic thoracic spinal cord compression in order to obtain further insights into the pathogenesis of this disease and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms. Direct 3D characterization of the spinal cord microvasculature and neural microstructure of the thoracic spinal cord was successfully reconstructed. The significant reduction in vasculature and degeneration of neurons in the thoracic spinal cord visualized via SRμCT after chronic compression were consistent with the changes detected by immunofluorescence staining. The 3D morphological measurements revealed significant reductions of neurovascular parameters in the thoracic spinal cord after 1 month of compression and became even worse after 6 months without relief of compression. In addition, the distinct 3D morphological twist and the decrease in branches of the central sulcal artery after chronic compression vividly displayed that these could be the potential triggers leading to blood flow reduction and neural deficits of the thoracic spinal cord. Our findings propose a novel methodology for the 3D analysis of neurovascular repair in chronic spinal cord compression, both qualitatively and quantitatively. The results indicated that compression simultaneously caused vascular dysfunction and neuronal network impairment, which should be acknowledged as concurrent events after chronic thoracic spinal cord injury. Combining neuroprotection with vasoprotection may provide promising therapeutic targets for chronic thoracic spinal cord compression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuan Jiang
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yong Cao
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- 3The First Chenzhou People's Hospital, Chenzhou, China
| | - Shuangfei Ni
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Liu
- 3The First Chenzhou People's Hospital, Chenzhou, China
| | - Yoon Ha
- 4Department of Neurosurgery, Spine and Spinal Cord Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Zixiang Luo
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Chengjun Li
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Shaohua Liu
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingsong Li
- 5Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xianzhen Yin
- 6Center for Drug Delivery System, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianding Wu
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Hongbin Lu
- 2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China.,7Department of Sports Medicine, Research Centre of Sports Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianzhong Hu
- 1Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,2Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
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12
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Akter F, Yu X, Qin X, Yao S, Nikrouz P, Syed YA, Kotter M. The Pathophysiology of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy and the Physiology of Recovery Following Decompression. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:138. [PMID: 32425740 PMCID: PMC7203415 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), also known as cervical spondylotic myelopathy is the leading cause of spinal cord compression in adults. The mainstay of treatment is surgical decompression, which leads to partial recovery of symptoms, however, long term prognosis of the condition remains poor. Despite advances in treatment methods, the underlying pathobiology is not well-known. A better understanding of the disease is therefore required for the development of treatments to improve outcomes following surgery. Objective: To systematically evaluate the pathophysiology of DCM and the mechanism underlying recovery following decompression. Methods: A total of 13,808 published articles were identified in our systematic search of electronic databases (PUBMED, WEB OF SCIENCE). A total of 51 studies investigating the secondary injury mechanisms of DCM or physiology of recovery in animal models of disease underwent comprehensive review. Results: Forty-seven studies addressed the pathophysiology of DCM. Majority of the studies demonstrated evidence of neuronal loss following spinal cord compression. A number of studies provided further details of structural changes in neurons such as myelin damage and axon degeneration. The mechanisms of injury to cells included direct apoptosis and increased inflammation. Only four papers investigated the pathobiological changes that occur in spinal cords following decompression. One study demonstrated evidence of axonal plasticity following decompressive surgery. Another study demonstrated ischaemic-reperfusion injury following decompression, however this phenomenon was worse when decompression was delayed. Conclusions: In preclinical studies, the pathophysiology of DCM has been poorly studied and a number of questions remain unanswered. The physiological changes seen in the decompressed spinal cord has not been widely investigated and it is paramount that researchers investigate the decompressed spinal cord further to enable the development of therapeutic tools, to enhance recovery following surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Akter
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States.,Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Xinming Yu
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Xingping Qin
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shun Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Parisa Nikrouz
- Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Trust, Maidstone, United Kingdom
| | - Yasir Ahmed Syed
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute (NMHRI), Cathays, United Kingdom.,School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, The Sir Martin Evans Building, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Kotter
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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13
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Hernandez-Gerez E, Fleming IN, Parson SH. A role for spinal cord hypoxia in neurodegeneration. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:861. [PMID: 31723121 PMCID: PMC6853899 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-2104-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The vascular system of the spinal cord is particularly complex and vulnerable. Damage to the main vessels or alterations to the regulation of blood flow will result in a reduction or temporary cessation of blood supply. The resulting tissue hypoxia may be brief: acute, or long lasting: chronic. Damage to the vascular system of the spinal cord will develop after a traumatic event or as a result of pathology. Traumatic events such as road traffic accidents, serious falls and surgical procedures, including aortic cross-clamping, will lead to an immediate cessation of perfusion, the result of which may not be evident for several days, but may have long-term consequences including neurodegeneration. Pathological events such as arterial sclerosis, venous occlusion and spinal cord compression will result in a progressive reduction of blood flow, leading to chronic hypoxia. While in some situations the initial pathology is exclusively vascular, recent research in neurodegenerative disease has drawn attention to concomitant vascular anomalies in disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy and muscular sclerosis. Understanding the role of, and tissue response to, chronic hypoxia is particularly important in these cases, where inherent neural damage exacerbates the vulnerability of the nervous system to stressors including hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Hernandez-Gerez
- Institute of Medical Sciences University of Aberdeen Foresterhill Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK
| | - Ian N Fleming
- Institute of Medical Sciences University of Aberdeen Foresterhill Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK
| | - Simon H Parson
- Institute of Medical Sciences University of Aberdeen Foresterhill Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK.
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14
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Comparison of Three-Dimensional Micro-CT Angiography of Cervical Spinal Cord between Two Contrast Agents. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2019; 2019:5215923. [PMID: 31110469 PMCID: PMC6487131 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5215923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Barium sulfate and lead oxide are commonly used for angiographic studies, but there is no report on the comparison of two contrast agents in angiography of cervical spinal cord. This study was aimed to compare the microvascular architecture of cervical spinal cord in rats after angiography with the barium sulfate agent to the lead oxide agent. Methods Twelve adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the barium sulfate group (n=6) and the lead oxide group (n=6). Each rat was perfused under the same protocol using either two contrast agents. The angiography was evaluated with the vascular number at different ranks. The cervical spinal cord samples were scanned using micro-CT with low resolution and high resolution. The microvascular parameters, including ratio of vascular volume to tissue volume (VV/TV), vascular number (V.N), diameter (V.Dm), separation (V.Sp), connectivity density (Conn.D), structure model index (SMI), percentage, and volume of vessels at different diameters were measured. Results The perfusion was better in the barium sulfate group, with more blood vessel trees of rank II and III visible compared to the lead oxide group. Low-resolution micro-CT analysis showed no difference in microvascular parameters except SMI between the two groups. High-resolution micro-CT analysis results showed that V.N and Conn.D of barium sulfate group were 60% and 290% more than those of the lead oxide group; however, V.Sp was 41% less than the lead oxide group. The percentage of vessels with diameter of 10 μm and 20 μm, and the volume of vessels with diameter of less than 100 μm was higher in the barium sulfate group than in the lead oxide group. The SMI index in the barium sulfate group was higher than that in the lead oxide group at both low resolution and high resolution. Conclusions Compared with lead oxide, barium sulfate is more suitable for perfusion of cervical spinal cord microvessels, and cheap and nontoxic with high resolution.
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15
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Cheng X, Long H, Chen W, Xu J, Wang X, Li F. The correlation between hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and functional recovery following chronic spinal cord compression. Brain Res 2019; 1718:75-82. [PMID: 31054885 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) are poorly understood. To assess the correlation between HIF-1α, MMP-9 and functional recovery following chronic cervical spinal cord compression (CSCI). Rats in the sham group underwent C5 semi-laminectomy, while a water-absorbable polyurethane polymer was implanted into the C6 epidural space in the chronic CSCI group. Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan score and somatosensory evoked potentials were used to evaluate neurological function. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to assess pathological changes in the spinal cord, while immunohistochemical analysis was used to examine HIF-1α and MMP-9 expression on days 7, 28, 42 and 70 post-surgery. Normal rats were only used for HE staining. The BBB score was significantly reduced on day 28 following CSCI, while SEPs exhibited decreased amplitude and increased latency. In chronic CSCI group, the BBB score and SEPs significantly improved on day 70 compared with day 28. HE staining revealed different level of spinal cord edema after chronic CSCI. Compared with the sham group, immunohistochemical analyses revealed that HIF-1α- and MMP-9-positive cells were increased on day 7 and peaked on day 28. HIF-1α and MMP-9 expression were demonstrated to be significantly positively correlated, whereas HIF-1α expression and BBB score were significantly negatively correlated, as well MMP-9 expression and BBB score. HIF-1α and MMP-9 expression are increased following chronic spinal cord compression and are positively correlated with one another. Decreased expression of HIF-1α and MMP-9 may contribute to functional recovery following CSCI. This expression pattern of HIF-1α and MMP-9 may give a new perspective on the molecular mechanisms of CSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Cheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China.
| | - Houqing Long
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wenli Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinghui Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Fobao Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China
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16
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Liu Y, Liu Q, Li R, Yang Z, Huang Z, Huang Z, Liu J, Wu X, Lin J, Wu X, Zhu Q. Three-Dimensional Changes in Cervical Spinal Cord Microvasculature During the Chronic Phase of Hemicontusion Spinal Cord Injury in Rats. World Neurosurg 2019; 126:e385-e391. [PMID: 30822573 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.02.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The angioarchitecture of the spinal cord and microvascular changes after acute and subacute spinal cord injury (SCI) have been reported in rodents. Microvascular changes after chronic SCI have not been explored. We characterized three-dimensional microvascular changes during the chronic phase of cervical hemicontusion SCI in rats. METHODS At 12 weeks after 1.2-mm hemicontusion injury, microvascular parameters, including vascular volume, ratio of vascular volume to tissue volume, vascular number, and vascular separation, were measured at the epicenter and each cord segment, and the percentage and volume of spinal vessels with different diameters were measured by micro computed tomography at the injury segment. RESULTS The 1.2-mm hemicontusion injury applied a compressive force of 1.050 ± 0.103 N to the cord, resulting in a cavity and a significant decrease in microvasculature at the epicenter. The vascular volume, ratio of vascular volume to tissue volume, and vascular number of the C5 cord decreased by 40%, 38%, and 36% at 12 weeks after SCI, whereas vascular separation increased by 54% compared with the control group. In the chronic phase after SCI, the percentage and volume of spinal microvessels at the contusion segment decreased significantly (especially vessels with diameters <40 μm). CONCLUSIONS Blood supply to the cervical spinal cord is insufficient during the chronic phase of cervical hemicontusion SCI, especially in microvessels with diameters <40 μm. These results may provide a basis to explore microvascular changes of SCI during the chronic phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yapu Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Department of Spinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Li
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiping Huang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zucheng Huang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junhao Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuhua Wu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junyu Lin
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoliang Wu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingan Zhu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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17
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Pennington Z, Zygourakis C, Ahmed AK, Kalb S, Zhu A, Theodore N. Immediate improvement of intraoperative monitoring signals following CSF release for cervical spine stenosis: Case report. J Clin Neurosci 2018; 53:235-237. [PMID: 29716808 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2018.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a degenerative pathology characterized by partial or complete conduction block on intraoperative neuromonitoring. We describe a case treated using osseoligamentous decompression and durotomy for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) release. Intraoperative monitoring demonstrated immediate signal improvement with CSF release, suggesting that clinical improvement in CSM may result from resolution of CSF flow anomalies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach Pennington
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Corinna Zygourakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States.
| | - A Karim Ahmed
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Samuel Kalb
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, Saint Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Alex Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nicholas Theodore
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States
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18
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Morphometric Analysis of Rat Spinal Cord Angioarchitecture by Phase Contrast Radiography: From 2D to 3D Visualization. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2018; 43:E504-E511. [PMID: 28885295 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000002408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN An advanced imaging of vasculature with synchrotron radiation X-ray in a rat model. OBJECTIVE To develop the potential for quantitative assessment of vessel network from two-dimensional (2D) to 3D visualization by synchrotron radiation X-ray phase contrast tomography (XPCT) in rat spinal cord model. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Investigation of microvasculature contributes to the understanding of pathological development of spinal cord injury. A few of X-ray imaging is available to visualize vascular architecture without usage of angiography or invasive casting preparation. METHODS A rat spinal cord injury model was produced by modified Allen method. Histomorphometric detection was simultaneously analyzed by both histology and XPCT from 2D to 3D visualization. The parameters including tissue lesion area, microvessel density, vessel diameter, and frequency distribution of vessel diameter were evaluated. RESULTS XPCT rendered the microvessels as small as capillary scale with a pixel size of 3.7 μm. It presented a high linear concordance for characterizing the 2D vascular morphometry compared with the histological staining (r = 0.8438). In the presence of spinal cord injury model, 3D construction quantified the significant angioarchitectural deficiency in the injury epicenter of cord lesion (P<0.01). CONCLUSION XPCT has a great potential to detect the smallest vascular network with pixel size up to micron dimension. It is inferred that the loss of abundant microvessels (≤40 μm) is responsible for local ischemia and neural dysfunction. XPCT holds a promise for morphometric analysis from 2D to 3D imaging in experimental model of neurovascular disorders. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.
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19
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Xu J, Long H, Chen W, Cheng X, Yu H, Huang Y, Wang X, Li F. Ultrastructural Features of Neurovascular Units in a Rat Model of Chronic Compressive Spinal Cord Injury. Front Neuroanat 2018; 11:136. [PMID: 29375327 PMCID: PMC5767600 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2017.00136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic spinal cord compression is the most common cause of spinal cord impairment worldwide. Objective of this study is to assess the ultrastructural features of the neurovascular unit (NVU) in a rat model of chronic compressive spinal cord injury, 24 SD rats were divided into two groups: the control group (n = 12), and the compression group (n = 12). A C6 semi-laminectomy was performed in the control group, whereas a water-absorbent polyurethane polymer was implanted into the C6 epidural space in the compression group. The Basso Beattie Bresnahan (BBB) scores and the somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP) were used to evaluate neurological functions. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was performed to investigate the change of NVU at the 28th day after modeling. Compared with the control group, the compression group shows a significant reduction (P < 0.05) of BBB score and a significant severity (P < 0.05) of abnormal SEP. TEM results of the compression group showed a striking increase in endothelial caveolae and vacuoles; a number of small spaces in tight junctions; a significant increase in pericyte processing area and vessel coverage; an expansion of the basement membrane region; swollen astrocyte endfeet and mitochondria; and the degeneration of neurons and axons. Our study revealed that damage to NVU components occurred followed by chronic compressive spinal cord injury. Several compensatory changes characterized by thicker endothelium, expansive BM, increased pericyte processing area and vessel coverage were also observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghui Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Houqing Long
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenli Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xing Cheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoyang Yu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangliang Huang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fobao Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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20
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Abstract
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a common spinal cord disease caused by chronic mechanical compression of the spinal cord. The mechanism by which mechanical stress results in spinal cord injury is poorly understood. The most common mechanisms involved in the pathobiology of DCM include apoptosis, inflammation, and vascular changes leading to loss of neurons, axonal degeneration, and myelin changes. However, the exact pathophysiologic mechanisms of DCM are unclear. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of DCM is required for the development of treatments to improve outcomes. This review highlights the mechanisms of injury and pathology in DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Akter
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Ann McLaren Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, University of Cambridge, West Forvie Building, Forvie Site Box 213, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0SZ, UK.
| | - Mark Kotter
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Ann McLaren Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, University of Cambridge, West Forvie Building, Forvie Site Box 213, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0SZ, UK
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21
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Three-dimensional micro-computed tomography analysis for spinal instability after lumbar facetectomy in the rat. 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; 26:2014-2020. [PMID: 28012080 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-016-4920-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intervertebral disc degeneration is thought to contribute to low back pain. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms remain controversial. In a previous study, we developed an animal model that showed delayed gait disturbance after lumbar facetectomy in the rat. We believe that this gait disturbance was caused by low back pain, although the mechanisms of this gait abnormality remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate structural changes of the lumbar spine after facetectomy in the rat utilizing three-dimensional micro-computed tomography (3DμCT) compared to histology. METHODS Thirty male SD rats were divided into three groups. In the Sham group (n = 13), only exposure of bilateral facet joints at the L4-5 level was performed. In the Experimental group (n = 13), complete resection of bilateral L4-5 facet joints was achieved. Naïve rats (n = 4) were used for controls. At 7-week postoperative, 3DµCT and histological analyses were performed. RESULTS On 3DµCT images, increased disc height and endplate irregularities at the L4-5 segment and decreased disc height at adjacent segments were observed in the Experimental group. Histological scores were also higher in the Experimental group than the Sham Group. CONCLUSIONS Degenerative changes were observed at the facetectomy level. These may correspond with the previously reported delayed gait disturbance after facetectomy. This animal model may be useful to create mechanically induced disc degeneration without direct tissue damage to the disc.
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22
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Cao Y, Zhou Y, Ni S, Wu T, Li P, Liao S, Hu J, Lu H. Three Dimensional Quantification of Microarchitecture and Vessel Regeneration by Synchrotron Radiation Microcomputed Tomography in a Rat Model of Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2016; 34:1187-1199. [PMID: 27676128 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2016.4697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A full understanding of the mechanisms behind spinal cord injury (SCI) processes requires reliable three-dimensional (3D) imaging tools for a thorough analysis of changes in angiospatial architecture. We aimed to use synchrotron radiation μCT (SRμCT) to characterize 3D temporal-spatial changes in microvasculature post-SCI. Morphometrical measurements revealed a significant decrease in vascular volume fraction, vascular bifurcation density, vascular segment density, and vascular connectivity density 1 day post-injury, followed by a gradual increase at 3, 7, and 14 days. At 1 day post-injury, SRμCT revealed an increase in vascular tortuosity (VT), which reached a plateau after 7 days and decreased slightly during the healing process. In addition, SRμCT images showed that vessels were largely concentrated in the gray matter 1 day post-injury. The maximal endothelial cell proliferation rate was detected at 7 days post-injury. The 3D morphology of the cavity appears in the spinal cord at 28 days post-injury. We describe a methodology for 3D analysis of vascular repair in SCI and reveal that endogenous revascularization occurs during the healing process. The spinal cord microvasculature configuration undergoes 3D remodeling and modification during the post-injury repair process. Examination of these processes might contribute to a full understanding of the compensatory vascular mechanisms after injury and aid in the development of novel and effective treatment for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Cao
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Central South University , Changsha, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- 2 Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha, China
| | - Shuangfei Ni
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Central South University , Changsha, China
| | - Tianding Wu
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Central South University , Changsha, China
| | - Ping Li
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Central South University , Changsha, China
| | - Shenghui Liao
- 3 School of Information Science and Engineering, Central South University , Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Jianzhong Hu
- 1 Department of Spine Surgery, Central South University , Changsha, China
| | - Hongbin Lu
- 4 Department of Sports Medicine, Research Centre of Sports Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha, China
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