Diagnosis and management of metastatic cervical spine tumors

Odontoid Fracture with Accompanying Severe Atlantoaxial Instability in Elderly Patients-Analysis of Treatment, Adverse Events, and Outcome

(1) Background: In elderly patients with type II odontoid fractures, accompanying severe atlantoaxial instability (AAI) is discussed as a marker possibly warranting more aggressive surgical therapy. This study aimed to characterize adverse events as well as the radiological and functional outcomes of surgical vs. conservative therapy in patients with odontoid fracture and AAI. (2) Methods: Patients aged 65 years and older with type II odontoid fracture and AAI treated were included. AAI was assumed if the mean subluxation across both atlantoaxial facet joints in the sagittal plane was greater than 50%. Data on demographics, comorbidities, treatment, adverse events, radiological, and functional outcomes were analyzed. (3) Results: Thirty-nine patients were included. Hospitalization time was significantly shorter in conservatively treated patients compared to patients with ventral or dorsal surgery. Adverse events occurred in 11 patients (28.2%), affecting 10 surgically treated patients (35.7%), and 1 conservatively treated patient (9.1%). Moreover, 25 patients were followed-up (64.1%). One secondary dislocation occurred in the conservative group (11.1%) and three in the surgical group (18.8%). (4) Conclusions: Despite the potential for instability in this injury, conservative treatment does not seem to lead to unfavorable short-term results, less adverse events, and a shorter hospital stay and should thus be considered and discussed with patients as a treatment option, even in the presence of severe AAI.

Comparison of three techniques in the surgical management of metastatic vertebral fracture with posterior wall damage: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

To retrospectively compare the safety and efficacy of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP), internal fixation (IF), and kyphoplasty combined with internal fixation (KP + IF) in treating metastatic vertebral fracture (MVF) with posterior wall damage.

METHODS

87 patients with MVF with posterior wall damage underwent surgery. In Group PKP, 36 patients underwent PKP; in Group IF, 20 patients underwent pedicle screw fixation; and in Group KP + IF, 31 patients underwent kyphoplasty combined with pedicle screw fixation. Operative time, intraoperative blood loss, clinical and radiological results, and complication rate in each group were evaluated and compared.

RESULTS

Significant improvement on the VAS, ODI scores, vertebral height and local kyphotic angle (LKA) was noted in each group (P < 0.001). Group PKP and Group KP + IF achieved better pain relief than Group IF (P < 0.05). At postoperative 3 days, Group PKP had better pain relief than Group KP + IF (P < 0.05). At other follow-up time points, there were no differences between Group PKP and KP + IF (P > 0.05). Group KP + IF and Group IF were more efficacious than Group PKP in terms of height restoration and LKA correction (P < 0.05). Group KP + IF had a higher incidence of postoperative complications than Group PKP and Group IF(P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PKP was safe and effective in treating MVF with posterior wall damage. It can achieve similar clinical outcomes compared to KP + IF, but associated with less operative time, less blood loss and fewer complications. IF alone should not be the first treatment option for its poorer analgesic effect.

The efficacy of laser interstitial thermal therapy in the management of spinal metastases: a systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND

In the last years, laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) has started to be used also in neurosurgical setting. Its efficacy for intracranial pathologies, namely, tumors and epilepsy, has been widely demonstrated. However, the literature evidences about the use of LITT for spinal lesions are recent, and it is still a topic of discussion regarding its efficacy. Here, the authors sought to present a systematic review of the literature investigating the utility of LITT for spinal lesions.

METHODS

Using PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, the authors performed a systematic review of the literature focused on the use of spinal laser interstitial thermal therapy (sLITT). Included in the search were randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and clinical series. Two independent reviewers conducted the study appraisal, data abstraction, and quality assessments of the studies.

RESULTS

Out of the initial 134 studies, 6 met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review, resulting in a total of 206 patients. All the patients have been treated with sLITT for compressive spinal metastases. Most of the lesions were thoracic (88.8%). All the studies reported an effective local control of the disease with a reduction of epidural compression at 30 days. Complication rate was 12.6%, but most of them were transient conditions, and only 3.4% patients needed a revision surgery.

CONCLUSION

sLITT is safe and provides effective local control for epidural compression from metastases, particularly in the thoracic spine. The authors propose considering sLITT as an alternative to open surgery in selected patients with spinal metastases.

Posterior Endoscopic Cervical Decompression in Metastatic Cervical Spine Tumors: An Alternative to Palliative Surgery

Metastatic spinal cord compression of the cervical spine is a well-known consequence of cancer that generally manifests as an oncological emergency. This study presents and describes an alternative to the minimally invasive posterior full-endoscopic approach for direct decompression and tumor debulking from the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the cervical spine. A 54-year-old man presented with progressive cervical radiculopathy that had persisted for 3 months. The underlying disease was HCC. Radiographic examination revealed evidence of metastatic spinal cord compression with an epidural mass at the C4-C5 levels, which compressed the C4-C5 spinal cord without bony destruction. The modified Tomita score was 6 to 8 points based on palliative surgery. A posterior full-endoscopic approach to remove the tumor from the metastasis of HCC in the cervical spine was done. A postoperative radiographic study revealed adequate tumor mass resection and spinal decompression. The patient was extremely satisfied with this alternative treatment and achieved complete neurologic recovery at 1 month and no recurrent symptoms at the 6-month follow-up. The technique of posterior full-endoscopic decompression of cervical metastasis causing unilateral radiculopathy, presented in this study, is feasible. This surgical intervention seems to be optional minimally invasive and acts as an alternative to palliative surgery.

Metastatic intradural extramedullary spinal cord tumor from ovarian cancer: A case report with a literature review

Context: Metastatic intradural extramedullary spinal cord tumors are extremely rare.Findings: A 76-year-old woman presented with intractable neck pain. Three years earlier, she had been treated for ovarian cancer with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. A year later, she underwent resection of a brain metastasis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an encapsulated intradural extramedullary mass at C4-C5. C4-C5 hemilaminectomy, tumor resection, and biopsy were performed. Histological examination of the resection revealed an adenocarcinoma. After surgery, her intolerable neck-shoulder pain was fully resolved, and she had no difficulties with daily living activities. However, two months later, she underwent gamma knife radiosurgery for the recurrent metastatic brain tumor, and four months later, she died from cachexia.Conclusion: Although cases of metastatic intradural extramedullary spinal tumors from ovarian cancer are extremely rare, their possibility should be considered in the differential diagnosis. A history of brain metastases and enhancement on T1-weighted MRI were helpful for making an accurate diagnosis.

A rare occurrence of a metastatic urothelial carcinoma to the thoracic vertebra: A case report

Background

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is a common urinary tract malignancy that predominantly affect the urinary bladder with a low recurrence rate after surgical removal. It usually metastasizes to the lungs, regional lymph nodes, and liver. However, it rarely spread to the thoracic spine and bones, especially in the Asian populations.

Case presentation

A 50-years-old Asian man, with a one-year history of surgically resected UC, presented to us with a complaint of worsening upper back pain for three months. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a destructed second thoracic (T2) vertebra with lytic lesion. A thoracic vertebrectomy was performed and histopathological examination (HPE) showed high-grade infiltrating metastatic malignant UC. Postoperatively, he was well and did not have any back pain. He was followed up under combined spine and oncology clinic regularly and was planned for chemoradiotherapy.

Discussion

UC commonly metastasizes to the lungs, liver, and lymph nodes. In young Asians, thoracic spinal metastases are rare. Urgent palliative spinal surgery is indicated to prevent further deterioration of function. Intraoperative usage of targeted controlled infusion (TCI) of remifentanil and propofol as maintenance of anaesthesia are gold standard in assisting spine surgeons who are guided by neuromuscular monitoring.

Conclusion

Spinal metastasis to the thoracic vertebra is rare among young Asian men. Patients presented with acute neurological deficits and back pain are indicated for spinal surgery. Multidisciplinary approach is needed for management of patients with spinal metastasis. Targeted controlled infusion (TCI) of remifentanil and propofol are gold standard for maintenance of anaesthesia for spine surgeries which are guided by somatosensory, and motor evoked potential monitoring.

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Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is a common urinary tract malignancy.

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Metastatic spread of UC to the thoracic vertebra is extremely rare among Asian men.

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Patients presented with acute neurological deficits are indicated for palliative spinal surgery.

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Judicious anaesthetic and surgical preparations are needed to avoid severe complications.

Anterior Corpectomy and Plating with Carbon-PEEK Instrumentation for Cervical Spinal Metastases: Clinical and Radiological Outcomes

Background: Anterior cervical corpectomy and plating has been recognized as a valuable approach for the surgical treatment of cervical spinal metastases. This study aimed to report the surgical, clinical and radiological outcomes of anterior carbon-PEEK instrumentations for cervical spinal metastases. Methods: Demographical, clinical, surgical and radiological data were collected from 2017 to 2020. The Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaire for neck pain, EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire for quality of life, Nurick scale for myelopathy and radiological parameters (segmental Cobb angle and cervical lordosis) were collected before surgery, at 6 weeks postoperatively and follow-up. Results: Seventeen patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 60.9 ± 7.6 years and mean follow-up was 12.9 ± 4.0 months. The NDI (55.4 ± 11.7 to 25.1 ± 5.4, p < 0.001) scores and the EORTC QLQ-C30 global health/QoL significantly improved postoperatively and at the last follow-up. The segmental Cobb angle (10.7° ± 5.6 to 3.1° ± 2.2, p < 0.001) and cervical lordosis (0.9° ± 6.7 to −6.2 ± 7.8, p = 0.002) significantly improved postoperatively. Only one minor complication (5.9%) was recorded. Conclusions: Carbon/PEEK implants represent a safe alternative to commonly used titanium ones and should be considered in cervical spinal metastases management due to their lower artifacts in postoperative imaging and radiation planning. Further larger comparative and cost-effectiveness studies are needed to confirm these results.

Symptomatic spinal metastases from neuroendocrine neoplasms: surgical outcomes and prognostic analysis

OBJECTIVES

In this article, we investigated the efficiency of surgery in treating symptomatic spinal metastases from neuroendocrine neoplasms and performed univariate analysis for identification of possible prognostic factors.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed, enrolling a total of 19 patients who received surgeries in our center for symptomatic spinal metastases from neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN). The Kaplan-Meier method was adopted to estimate overall survival (OS) and recurrence free survival (RFS). Univariate analysis was performed for identification of possible prognostic factors.

RESULTS

All patients recruited displayed stable recovery after surgical intervention, with a median OS of 27.3 months (95% Confidence Interval: 16.4-38.1 months) and a median RFS of 23.0 months (95% Confidence Interval: 12.1-33.8 months). Postoperatively, 15 patients exhibited improved neurological function based on the Frankel classification, while 16 patients experienced significant pain relief, with mean visual analog scale (VAS) score decreasing from 7.47 ± 2.32-2.47 ± 1.25 (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed that the presence of visceral metastases (p = 0.034) and extraspinal bone metastases (p = 0.016) are both related with poor prognosis. Additionally, well histologic differentiation (p = 0.010) and administration of postoperative octreotide (p = 0.041) or bisphosphonate (p = 0.023) are all indicators for better outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery is an efficient option for treating symptomatic spinal metastases from NEN due to its immediate and assured benefits in pain alleviation, restoration of function and stability reconstruction.

Comparison of 30-Day Outcomes in Patients with Cervical Spine Metastasis Undergoing Corpectomy Versus Posterior Cervical Laminectomy and Fusion: A 2006-2016 ACS-NSQIP Database Study

BACKGROUND

Patients with metastatic disease to the cervical spine have historically had poor outcomes, with an average survival of 15 months. Every effort should be made to avoid complications of surgical intervention for stabilization and decompression.

METHODS

We identified patients who had undergone anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) or posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion (PCLF) for metastatic disease of the cervical spine using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2006 to 2016. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were subsequently propensity matched 1:1. We compared the overall complications, intensive care unit level complications, mortality, and return to the operating room between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

After identifying the patients who met the inclusion criteria and propensity matching, a cohort of 240 patients was included, with 120 (50%) in the ACCF group and 120 (50%) in the PCLF group. The patients in the ACCF group were more likely to have experienced any complication (odds ratio, 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-4.1; P = 0.026) but not severe complications or a return to the operating room (P = 0.406 and P = 0.450, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In the present study, we found that anterior surgical approaches (ACCF) for metastatic cervical spine disease resulted in a significantly greater rate of overall complications (2.1 times more) compared with PCLF in the first 30 days. Although more studies are required to further elucidate this relationship, the general belief that the anterior approach is better tolerated by patients might not apply to patients with metastatic tumors.

Kyphoplasty in the treatment of occult and non-occult metastatic vertebral tumors

To compare the efficacy and safety of kyphoplasty (KP) in the treatment of occult metastatic vertebral tumors (OMVT) and non-occult metastatic vertebral tumors (MVT).From January 2013 to December 2017, 65 cases of occult metastatic vertebral tumors and 82 cases of metastatic vertebral tumors were selected and divided into 2 groups. After KP, they were followed up by a year of outpatient visits and telephone calls. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores, the amount of bone cement injected, the change of vertebral height and the incidence of complications were recorded, compared and analyzed by SPSS software. t test was used to compare the differences between the same group of patients at different times and between the 2 groups of patients.In the OMVT group, the operation time was 24.52 ± 4.24 minutes, the fluoroscopy time was 10.18 ± 1.53 minutes and the volume of bone cement was 3.62 ± 0.93 ml. The VAS score decreased from 7.26 ± 01.08 preoperatively to 2.77 ± 0.93 postoperatively (P < .01). The ODI score decreased from 64.89 ± 9.05 preoperatively to 25.82 ± 4.63 postoperatively (P < .01). In the MVT group, the operation time was 26.63 ± 4.61 minutes, the fluoroscopy time was 11.04 ± 2.15 minutes and the volume of bone cement was 4.09 ± 1.10 ml. The VAS score decreased from 7.73 ± 0.94 preoperatively to 3.22 ± 0.80 postoperatively (P < .01). The ODI score decreased from 69.20 ± 7.14 preoperatively to 28.02 ± 4.40 postoperatively (P < .01). The vertebral height of MVT patients was significantly improved after operation (P < .01), but there was no difference in OMVT patients (P > .05).Occult metastatic vertebral tumors can be detected by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and KP may be more effective and safer in the treatment of OMVT.

Application of monoexponential, biexponential, and stretched-exponential models of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the differential diagnosis of metastases and myeloma in the spine-Univariate and multivariate analysis of related parameters

OBJECTIVE

To explore the value of related parameters in monoexponential, biexponential, and stretched-exponential models of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in differentiating metastases and myeloma in the spine.

METHODS

53 metastases and 16 myeloma patients underwent MRI with 10 b-values (0-1500 s/mm²). Parameters of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), true diffusion coefficient (D), pseudo-diffusion coefficient (D*), perfusion fraction (f), the distribution diffusion coefficient (DDC), and intravoxel water diffusion heterogeneity (α) from DWI were calculated. The independent sample t test and the Mann-Whiney U test were used to compare the statistical difference of the parameter values between the two. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was used to identify the diagnostic efficacy. Then substituted each parameter into the decision tree model and logistic regression model, identified meaningful parameters, and evaluated their joint diagnostic performance.

RESULTS

The ADC, D, and α values of metastases were higher than those of myeloma, whereas the D* value was lower than that of myeloma, and the difference was significant (p < 0.05); the area under the ROC curve for the above parameters was 0.661, 0.710, 0.781, and 0.743, respectively. There was no significant difference in the f and DDC values (p > 0.05). D and α were found to conform to the decision tree model, and the accuracy of model diagnosis was 84.1%. ADC and α were found to conform to the logistic regression model, and the accuracy was 87.0%.

CONCLUSION

The 3 models of DWI have certain values indifferentiating metastases and myeloma in spine, and the diagnostic performance of ADC, D, α and D*was better. Combining ADC with α may markedly aid in the differential diagnosis of the two.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

Monoexponential, biexponential, and stretched-exponential models can offer additional information in the differential diagnosis of metastases and myeloma in the spine. Decision tree model and logistic regression model are effective methods to help further distinguish the two.

Safety of Cement Distribution Patterns in Metastatic Vertebral Tumors: A Retrospective Study

Background

Kyphoplasty (KP) is a palliative treatment for patients with metastatic vertebral tumors. The distribution pattern of cement affects safety and efficacy. The distribution pattern of cement has not been previously reported for patients with metastatic vertebral tumors.

Material/Methods

From January 2013 to December 2017, patients with metastatic vertebral tumors who met our criteria were divided into cement fusion (n=91) and separation (n=97) groups. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and middle vertebral height (MVH) were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively, and 1 year after surgery. Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score, fluoroscopy time, operation time, cement volume, cement leakage, and vertebral fractures were recorded and evaluated.

Results

Compared with the fusion group, the separation group had significantly different (P<0.001) operation time, fluoroscopy time, and cement volume. Compared with preoperative status, VAS and MVH were significantly improved 3 days postoperatively and 1 year postoperatively in both groups (P<0.001). The difference in cement leakage between the 2 groups (P<0.05) and in the number of adjacent vertebral fractures between the 2 groups (P<0.05) were significant.

Conclusions

The distribution patterns of the bone cement had a good analgesic effect and preventive effect on vertebral collapse. However, the separation of bone cement may be safer.

Clinical outcomes and risk factors in patients with cervical metastatic spinal cord compression after posterior decompressive and spinal stabilization surgery

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical results of surgery for cervical spine metastasis and identify clinical risk factors affecting postoperative survival and neurological outcome.

Patients and methods

A retrospective analysis of medical records was performed on 19 patients who had undergone decompressive surgery and spine stabilization due to metastatic spinal cord compression in the cervical spine. All patients had severe pain before surgery. Worst pain, average pain, and pain interference were evaluated using the visual analog scale (range, 0–10) for each patient at baseline and following surgery. Neurological recovery was assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Score (JOAS). In addition, associations between ten characteristics and postoperative survival and neurological outcomes were analyzed in the study.

Results

The mean worst pain score in a 24-hour period was 8.6 before the operation. At 1 day, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the operation, the mean worst pain scores decreased to 5.6, 4.5, 3.8, 2.6, and 2.4 (all P<0.001 vs baseline), respectively. Similar decreases in average pain and pain interference were also observed. The median JOAS in a 24-hour period was 11.0 before the operation. At 1 day, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the operation, the median JOAS increased to 12.0 (P=0.469), 13.0 (P=0.010), 14.0 (P<0.001), 15.0 (P<0.001), and 14.0 (P<0.001), respectively. According to the multivariate analysis, postoperative survival was significantly associated with the type of primary tumor (P=0.033), preoperative ambulatory status (P=0.004), extra-spinal bone metastasis (P=0.021), ¹²⁵I seed brachytherapy (P=0.014), and complication status (P=0.009). Better neurological outcome was found to be correlated with higher JOAS (P=0.013). Surgery-related complications occurred in 26.3% of patients.

Conclusion

Posterior decompression and spine stabilization for painful cervical spine metastasis resulting from spinal cord compression were found to be effective for neurological recovery and pain control with a tolerable rate of complications.

Anterolateral Cervical Kyphoplasty for Metastatic Cervical Spine Lesions

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical and radiological efficacy of anterolateral kyphoplasty for cervical spinal metastasis.

Overview of Literature

Although the spine is the third most common site of tumor metastasis, the cervical spine is the least commonly affected (incidence, 10%–15%). Surgical decompression is highly challenging because of the proximity of neural and vascular elements. Kyphoplasty for cervical spine metastasis has been described in small case reports with promising results.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospective collected single-center spine metastasis database was done for cervical kyphoplasty cases. Data pertaining to age, sex, primary tumor diagnosis, modified Tokuhashi score, Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS), preoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, and analgesic medication were extracted. Postoperative data included VAS score at postoperative day 1, duration of hospitalization, self-reported functional outcome, and VAS score at the last follow-up.

Results

Eleven patients (mean age, 62.5 years) with cervical spine metastases were treated with 15-level kyphoplasty. Mean Tokuhashi score was 8.1, and mean SINS was 7.85. Mean preoperative pain score was 7.1, and 82% of patients used opioid analgesics. Mean total bleeding volume was 100 mL. Mean complication-free length of stay was 2.6 days with a decrease in postoperative pain (VAS score=2.8, p <0.05). There was a 56% decrease in opioid dosage and the number of consumed analgesics (1.09, p =0.004). Eighty-two percent of the patients reported excellent improvement at the last follow-up self-assessment.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this case series represents the largest series of vertebral augmentation using balloon kyphoplasty for cervical spinal metastasis. This technique is associated with low postoperative complications as well as significant decrease in pain, use of opioids, and length of hospital stay. The main indications for vertebral kyphoplasty are lytic lesions of the cervical spine, painful lesions refractory to medical treatment, SINS score of 6–10, and absence of posterior wall defect.

Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty for Metastatic Spinal Lesions: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

The spine is the most common site of bone metastases. Vertebroplasty (VP) and kyphoplasty (KP) have been proposed as potential minimally invasive therapeutic options for metastatic spinal lesion (MSL) pain. However, the efficacy of VP and KP on MSL pain is currently unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of VP and KP compared with each other, usual care, or other treatments on pain, disability, and quality of life following MSL.

METHODS

We included randomized controlled trials and prospective nonrandomized controlled clinical trials assessing VP or KP for the treatment of pain following MSL without cord compression. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and CENTRAL.

RESULTS

The literature search revealed 387 citations. Of these, 9 trials met all eligibility criteria and were included in the qualitative analysis. In total, there were 622 patients enrolled in the trials and of them 432 were in the surgical treatment group (92 received KP, 97 received VP, 134 received VP and chemotherapy, 68 received VP and radiotherapy, and 41 received Kiva implant) and 190 were in the nonsurgical treatment group (83 received chemotherapy, 46 received radiotherapy, and 61 received other treatment). Using the grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation approach, pain (low-quality evidence) and functional scores (very low-quality evidence) improved more with VP plus chemotherapy than with chemotherapy alone (pain: mean difference, -3.01; 95% confidence interval, -3.21 to -2.80; functional score: mean difference, 15.46; 95% confidence interval, 13.58-17.34). KP seemed to lead to significantly greater improvement in pain, disability, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) compared with nonsurgical management. VP plus Iodine-125 seemed to lead to significantly greater improvement in pain and disability in comparison with VP alone. VP plus radiochemotherapy resulted in better pain relief and HRQoL postoperatively in comparison with routine radiochemotherapy. There was low-quality evidence to prove that surgical treatment significantly decreases pain, and improves functional score and HRQoL following MSL in comparison with nonsurgical management.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of the analysis of currently published trial data, it is unclear whether VP for MSL provides benefits over KP.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2.

Diagnostic Value of Technetium-99m Bone Scintigraphy in the Detection of Cervical Spine Metastases in Oncological Patients

MINI: Bone scan remains the modality of choice for the screening of bone metastases. This study demonstrated the diagnostic value of bone scan in detecting bone metastases limited to the cervical spine in oncological patients remains uncertain due to the moderately high false-negative diagnostic rate.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort, radiographic study.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of bone scintigraphy (BS) for the detection of cervical spine metastases in oncological patients.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

BS remains the modality of choice for the screening of bone metastases, because of its feasibility in whole-body scanning and its widespread availability at low cost. Current practice guidelines for patients with malignant diseases recommend BS imaging as the primary screening method for detecting both axial and appendicular skeletal metastases.

METHODS

Of 481 patients, 242 were diagnosed with cervical spinal metastases from a primary cancer. The BS findings of these patients, evaluated by nuclear medicine physicians, were assessed with respect to their usefulness for detecting cervical spine metastases. Magnetic resonance imaging findings, evaluated by radiologists, were used as the reference standards. The diagnostic value of BS was compared between subgroups according to the order in which the diagnostic procedures (magnetic resonance imaging and BS) were completed, the presence of pathological fractures, the location of the primary malignancy, and the number of cervical metastases.

RESULTS

The sensitivity of BS in the detection of cervical spine metastases was 59.1%, with a 40.9% rate of false-negative diagnoses; the specificity was 94.6%, with a 5.4% rate of false-positive diagnoses. The sensitivity tended to be higher in the presence of pathological fractures (72.1% in cases with a fracture vs. 3% in cases without a fracture) and a greater number of lesions (r = 0.921). Neither the order in which the diagnostic examinations were performed nor the location of the primary cancer, except for those in the stomach and liver, appeared to affect the diagnostic accuracy of BS.

CONCLUSION

Considering the moderately high false-negative diagnostic rate obtained in the present study, BS alone cannot accurately diagnose metastases in the cervical spine in oncological patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Bladder metastasis presenting as neck, arm and thorax pain: a case report

BACKGROUND

A case of metastatic carcinoma secondary to urothelial carcinoma presenting as musculoskeletal pain is reported. A brief review of urothelial and metastatic carcinoma including clinical presentation, diagnostic testing, treatment and chiropractic considerations is discussed.

CASE PRESENTATION

This patient presented in November 2014 with progressive neck, thorax and upper extremity pain. Computed tomography revealed a destructive soft tissue mass in the cervical spine and additional lytic lesion of the 1st rib. Prompt referral was made for surgical consultation and medical management.

CONCLUSION

Distant metastasis is rare, but can present as a musculoskeletal complaint. History of carcinoma should alert the treating chiropractic physician to potential for serious disease processes.

Palliative Surgery for Advanced Cancer: Identifying Evidence-Based Criteria for Patient Selection: Case Report and Review of Literature

BACKGROUND

Criteria for selecting patients with advanced cancer for palliative surgery (PS) remains poorly defined. Decision making for PS requires realistic treatment goals with well-defined criteria. Here we discuss a 71-year-old Jehovah's Witness with advanced stage renal cell carcinoma (RCC) who presented with profound anemia due to intractable bleeding from gastric metastasis. After repeated attempts with endoscopic and angiographic management, she underwent surgical palliation. Through this case, we developed 10-item evidence-based criteria for selecting patients for PS.

OBJECTIVE

The study objective was to provide a review of pertinent literature for PS and identify evidence-based criteria for patient selection. These criteria were relevant for selecting this patient with metastatic RCC and may prove beneficial for selecting advanced cancer patients for PS.

METHODS

A MEDLINE search revealed 175 publications relevant to PS. Among these, 17 articles defining patient selection criteria (PSC) were reviewed. A frequency-based analysis of each criterion was performed. Another search returned 30 cases of RCC gastric metastases from 25 published reports. Outcome analysis was determined by the Kaplan-Meier actuarial method.

RESULTS

Ten criteria were identified: symptom control, prognosis, preoperative performance status, quality of life (QoL), tumor burden amenable to palliation, procedure-related morbidity and mortality, feasibility of nonsurgical therapies, anticipated hospitalization, requirement for additional palliation, and cost. This patient met all inclusion criteria and underwent a successful gastrectomy. Median survival for patients with RCC gastric metastasis was 20 months.

CONCLUSIONS

This report illustrates an example of implementation of evidence-based criteria for selecting advanced cancer patients for PS. Validation of these criteria is warranted.

Factors Affecting Survival in Patients Undergoing Palliative Spine Surgery for Metastatic Lung and Hepatocellular Cancer: Dose the Type of Surgery Influence the Surgical Results for Metastatic Spine Disease?

Background

Surgical treatment for metastatic spine disease has been becoming more prominent with the help of technological advances and a few favorable reports on the surgery. In cases of this peculiar condition, it is necessary to establish the role of surgery and analyze the factors affecting survival.

Methods

From January 2011 to April 2015, 119 patients were surgically treated for metastatic spine lesions. To reduce the bias along the heterogeneous cancers, the primary cancer was confined to either the lung (n = 25) or the liver (n = 18). Forty-three patients (male, 32; female, 11; mean age, 57.5 years) who had undergone palliative surgery were enrolled in this study. Posterior decompression and fusion was performed in 30 patients (P group), and anteroposterior (AP) reconstruction was performed in 13 patients (AP group) for palliative surgery. Pre- and postoperative (3 months) pain (visual analogue scale, VAS), performance status (Karnofsky performance score), neurologic status (American Spinal Injury Association [ASIA] grade), and spinal instability neoplastic score (SINS) were compared. The survival period and related hazard factors were also assessed by Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Most patients experienced improvements in pain and performance status (12.3% ± 17.2%) at 3 months postoperatively. In terms of neurologic recovery, 9 patients (20.9%) graded ASIA D experienced neurological improvement to ASIA E while the remainder was status quo. In an analysis according to operation type, there was no significant difference in patient demographics. At 12 months postoperatively, cumulative survival rates were 31.5% and 38.7% for the P group and the AP group, respectively (p > 0.05). Survival was not affected by the pre- and postoperative pain scale, Tokuhashi score, neurologic status, SINS, or operation type. Preoperative Karnofsky performance score (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89 to 0.96) and improvement of performance status after surgery (hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.92 to 0.97) significantly affected survival after operation.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in surgical outcomes and survival rates between posterior and AP surgery for metastatic lesions resulting from lung and hepatocellular cancer. Preoperative Karnofsky score and improvement of performance status had a significant impact on the survival rate following surgical treatment for these metastatic spine lesions.

Utilization of laser interstitial thermotherapy guided by real-time thermal MRI as an alternative to separation surgery in the management of spinal metastasis

OBJECT

High-grade malignant spinal cord compression is commonly managed with a combination of surgery aimed at removing the epidural tumor, followed by spinal stereotactic radiosurgery (SSRS) aimed at local tumor control. The authors here introduce the use of spinal laser interstitial thermotherapy (SLITT) as an alternative to surgery prior to SSRS.

METHODS

Patients with a high degree of epidural malignant compression due to radioresistant tumors were selected for study. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain and quality of life were obtained before and within 30 and 60 days after treatment. A laser probe was percutaneously placed in the epidural space. Real-time thermal MRI was used to monitor tissue damage in the region of interest. All patients received postoperative SSRS. The maximum thickness of the epidural tumor was measured, and the degree of epidural spinal cord compression (ESCC) was scored in pre- and postprocedure MRI.

RESULTS

In the 11 patients eligible for study, the mean VAS score for pain decreased from 6.18 in the preoperative period to 4.27 within 30 days and 2.8 within 60 days after the procedure. A similar VAS interrogating the percentage of quality of life demonstrated improvement from 60% preoperatively to 70% within both 30 and 60 days after treatment. Imaging follow-up 2 months after the procedure demonstrated a significant reduction in the mean thickness of the epidural tumor from 8.82 mm (95% CI 7.38-10.25) before treatment to 6.36 mm (95% CI 4.65-8.07) after SLITT and SSRS (p = 0.0001). The median preoperative ESCC Grade 2 was scored as 4, which was significantly higher than the score of 2 for Grade 1b (p = 0.04) on imaging follow-up 2 months after the procedure.

CONCLUTIONS

The authors present the first report on an innovative minimally invasive alternative to surgery in the management of spinal metastasis. In their early experience, SLITT has provided local control with low morbidity and improvement in both pain and the quality of life of patients.

Atlantoaxial instability in acute odontoid fractures is associated with nonunion and mortality

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Odontoid fractures are the most common geriatric cervical spine fractures. Nonunion rates have been reported to be up to 40% and mortality up to 35%, and poor functional outcomes are common. Atlantoaxial instability (AAI) is a plausible prognostic factor, but its role has not been previously examined.

PURPOSE

To determine the effect of severe AAI on the outcomes of nonunion and mortality in patients with acute odontoid fractures.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort/single institution.

PATIENT SAMPLE

One hundred twenty-four consecutive patients with acute odontoid fractures.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Rates of nonunion and mortality.

METHODS

Two independent blinded reviewers measured AAI using postinjury computed tomography scans. Patients were classified as having "severe" or "minimal" AAI on the basis of greater versus less than or equal to 50% mean subluxation across each C1-C2 facet joint. Rates of nonunion and mortality were compared using independent samples t tests and adjusted for age, displacement, and subtype using binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

One hundred seven patients had minimal AAI and 17 had severe AAI. Mean follow-up was 4.4 months (standard deviation=4.6). Patients with severe AAI were more likely to experience nonunion (29% vs. 10%, respectively; p=.03) and mortality (35% vs. 14%, respectively; p=.03) regardless of treatment modality. Fracture displacement correlated with AAI (r(2)=0.65). When adjusted for patient age, the odds ratio of nonunion with severe AAI approached significance at 3.3 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.9-11.7). Mortality prediction with AAI approached a twofold increased risk (odds ratio=2.1; 95% CI: 0.6-6.8). In patients with Type-II fractures, the odds of mortality with severe AAI approached a threefold higher risk (odds ratio=3.3; 95% CI: 0.9-12.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with acute odontoid fractures and severe AAI may be more likely to experience nonunion and mortality, suggesting the possibility that aggressive management could be warranted. Further investigation with a large prospective study including patient-important functional outcomes is justified.

Diagnosis and surgical management of breast cancer metastatic to the spine

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy and the second leading cause of death in Western women. Breast cancer most commonly metastasizes to the bone and has a particular affinity with the spine, accounting for 2/3 of osseous metastases discovered. With significant improvements in cancer therapies, the number of patients at risk for symptomatic spinal metastases is likely to increase. Patients may suffer from intractable pain and neurological dysfunction, negatively influencing their quality of life. Timely diagnosis of patients is crucial and has been aided by several breakthrough advances in imaging techniques which aid in detection, staging, and follow-up of bone metastases. Breast metastases are usually responsive to hormonal therapy and pharmacologic interventions, but skeletal metastases often require surgical intervention. The treatments are palliative but goals include the preserving or restoring neurologic function, ensuring spinal stability, and relieving pain. Advances in surgical techniques and instrumentation have allowed more effective decompression and stabilization of the spine, and with the support of recent evidence the trend has shifted towards using more advanced surgical options in appropriately selected patients. In this review, the clinical presentation, diagnosis, patient selection, and surgical management of breast cancer metastatic to the spine are discussed.

Spinal metastasis in thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

Thyroid carcinoma generally responds well to treatment and spinal metastasis is an uncommon feature. Many studies have looked at the management of spinal metastasis and proposed treatments, plans and algorithms. These range from well-established methods to potentially novel alternatives including bisphosphonates and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy, amongst others.The purposes of this systematic review of the literature are twofold. Firstly we sought to analyse the proposed management options in the literature. Then, secondly, we endeavoured to make recommendations that might improve the prognosis of patients with spinal metastasis from thyroid carcinomas.

METHODS

We conducted an extensive electronic literature review regarding the management of spinal metastasis of thyroid cancer.

RESULTS

We found that there is a tangible lack of studies specifically analysing the management of spinal metastasis in thyroid cancer. Our results show that there are palliative and curative options in the management of spinal metastasis, in the forms of radioiodine ablation, surgery, selective embolisation, bisphosphonates and more recently the VEGF receptor targets.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of spinal metastasis from thyroid cancer should be multi-disciplinary. There is an absence; it seems, of a definitive protocol for treatment. Research shows increased survival with 131I avidity and complete bone metastasis resection. Early detection and treatment therefore are crucial. Studies suggest in those patients below the age of 45 years that treatment should be aggressive, and aim for cure. In those patients in whom curative treatment is not an option, palliative treatments are available.

Spinal metastasis in head and neck cancer

Background

The incidence of head and neck cancer is relatively low in developed countries and highest in South East Asia. Notwithstanding advances in surgery and radiotherapy over the past several decades, the 5-year survival rate for head and neck cancer has stagnated and remains at 50–55%. This is due, in large part, to both regional and distant disease spread, including spinal metastasis. Spinal metastasis from head and neck cancer is rare, has a poor prognosis and can significantly impede end-stage quality of life; normally only palliative care is given.

This study aims to conduct a systematic review of the evidence available on management of spinal metastasis from head and neck cancer and to use such evidence to draw up guiding principles in the management of the distant spread.

Methods

Systematic review of the electronic literature was conducted regarding the management of spinal metastasis of head and neck malignancies.

Results

Due to the exceptional rarity of head and neck cancers metastasizing to the spine, there is a paucity of good randomized controlled trials into the management of spinal metastasis. This review produced only 12 case studies/reports and 2 small retrospective cohort studies that lacked appropriate controls.

Conclusion

Management should aim to improve end-stage quality of life and maintain neurological function. This review has found that radiotherapy +/− medical adjuvant is considered the principle treatment of spinal metastasis of head and neck cancers.

There is an absence of a definitive treatment protocol for head and neck cancer spinal metastasis. Our failure to find and cite high-quality scientific evidence only serves to stress the need for good quality research in this area.