Psychometric properties of the 30-m walking test in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy: results from two prospective multicenter cohort studies

Determinants of quality of life in degenerative cervical myelopathy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is the most common cause of chronic, progressive spinal cord impairment worldwide. Patients experience substantial pain, functional neurological decline and disability. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) appears to be particularly poor, even when compared to other chronic diseases. However, the determinants of HRQoL are poorly understood. The objective was to perform a systematic review of the determinants of quality of life of people with DCM.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE and Embase following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO CRD42018115675). Full-text papers in English, exclusively studying DCM, published before 26 March 2020 were eligible for inclusion and were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool. Study sample characteristics, patient demographics, cohort type, HRQoL instrument utilised, HRQoL score, and relationships of HRQoL with other variables were qualitatively synthesised.

RESULTS

A total of 1176 papers were identified; 77 papers and 13,572 patients were included in the final analysis. A total of 96% of papers studied surgical cohorts and 86% utilised the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) as a measure of HRQoL. HRQoL determinants were grouped into nine themes. The most common determinant to be assessed was surgical technique (38/77, 49%) and patient satisfaction and experience of pain (10/77, 13%). HRQoL appeared to improve after surgery. Pain was a negative predictor of HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

Current data on the determinants of HRQoL in DCM are limited, contradictory and heterogeneous. Limitations of this systematic review include lack of distinction between DCM subtypes and heterogenous findings amongst the papers in which HRQoL is measured postoperatively or post-diagnosis. This highlights the need for greater standardisation in DCM research to allow further synthesis. Studies of greater precision are necessary to account for HRQoL being complex, multi-factorial and both time and context dependent.

Quantitative physical performance tests can effectively detect Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This review aimed to identify effective physical performance tests (PPT) as clinical outcome indicators for detecting and monitoring degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM).

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed on seven electronic databases on the effectiveness in detection and monitoring of DCM by PPT. All included studies were reviewed and undergone quality assessments on the risk-of-bias by Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and were pooled by random-effect analysis with level of significance at 0.05. Homogeneity among studies was assessed by I²-statistics and effect of PPT was confirmed by Cohen's d effect size and confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Totally, 3111 articles were retrieved, and 19 studies were included for review and meta-analysis. There were 13 studies investigating PPT regarding the upper limbs and 12 studies regarding the lower limbs. Performance in 10-second-Grip-and-Release Test (G&R) and 9-Hole-Peg Test (9HPT) was studied in 10 and 3 articles, respectively, while 10-second-Stepping Test (SST), 30-meter-Walking Test (30MWT) and Foot-Tapping Test (FTT) for lower limbs were studied in 5, 4, and 3 articles correspondingly. Only 1 study utilized the Triangle-Stepping Test. High-quality study with fair risk-of-bias was revealed from Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Large effect size facilitated detection and monitoring in DCM was unveiling for G&R, 9HPT, SST, and 30MWT. FTT, while also effective, was hindered by a high-degree heterogeneity in the meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

Effective PPT including G&R, 9HPT, SST, 30MWT, and FTT was identified for disease detection and monitoring in DCM.

Gait assessment tools for degenerative cervical myelopathy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a common progressive neurological disorder which may affect one's activities of daily living or even result in paraplegia/tetraplegia if left untreated. Currently, there is lack of consensus of the gait assessment tools for DCM. This systematic review aims to (I) provide an appraisal of the psychometric properties of the available gait assessment tools for DCM, (II) to assess their methodological quality according to The Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement COSMIN risk of bias checklist and (III) to assess each measurement property result against externally validated criteria.

METHODS

Six electronic full-text databases [PubMed (via NLM^® database], Medline (via OvidSP), CINAHL (via Ebsco), EMBASE (via Ovid), PsycINFO (via CSA) and Web of Science (via Thomson Reuters)] were systematically searched from inception to June 2020. The methodological quality of each study was analysed using the COSMIN risk of bias checklist. The measurement property result and methodological quality of each study were evaluated.

RESULTS

Twenty studies were included from 3,339 citations retrieved. Twelve assessment tools for assessing gait in DCM were identified. According to COSMIN criteria, only five studies (25%) included in this review were found to have "very good" methodological quality. For construct validity, five tools had "sufficient" quality. For reliability, two assessment tools [the Total modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association Score (Italian Translation) (mJOA-ITTotal) and the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (Italian Translation) Motor dysfunction of the Lower Extremity (mJOA-ITMDLE)] were rated as "sufficient" for interobserver reliability while six assessment tools (the 10 second step test (10 sec ST), 30 minute walk test (30MWT), foot tapping test, mJOA-ITTotal, mJOA-ITMDLE and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Cervical Myelopathy Evaluation Questionnaire) were rated as "sufficient" for test-retest reliability. The JOA (6 scores) received a "sufficient" rating for internal consistency. No assessment was available for responsiveness, as only the effect size was available.

DISCUSSION

Based upon current evidence, the mJOA in combination with an objective functional test (i.e., 30MWT) is recommended for clinicians assessing gait in DCM, although this may change with an increase in the number of studies completed. Given the importance of assessment tools possessing adequate measurement properties, a focus on studies in this area is warranted.

Improving Assessment of Disease Severity and Strategies for Monitoring Progression in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 4]

STUDY DESIGN

Narrative Review.

OBJECTIVE

To (i) discuss why assessment and monitoring of disease progression is critical in Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM); (ii) outline the important features of an ideal assessment tool and (iii) discuss current and novel strategies for detecting subtle deterioration in DCM.

METHODS

Literature review.

RESULTS

Degenerative cervical myelopathy is an overarching term used to describe progressive injury to the cervical spinal cord by age-related changes of the spinal axis. Based on a study by Smith et al (2020), the prevalence of DCM is approximately 2.3% and is expected to rise as the global population ages. Given the global impact of this disease, it is essential to address important knowledge gaps and prioritize areas for future investigation. As part of the AO Spine RECODE-DCM (Research Objectives and Common Data Elements for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy) project, a priority setting partnership was initiated to increase research efficiency by identifying the top ten research priorities for DCM. One of the top ten priorities for future DCM research was: What assessment tools can be used to evaluate functional impairment, disability and quality of life in people with DCM? What instruments, tools or methods can be used or developed to monitor people with DCM for disease progression or improvement either before or after surgical treatment?

CONCLUSIONS

With the increasing prevalence of DCM, effective surveillance of this population will require both the implementation of a monitoring framework as well as the development of new assessment tools.

Balance effort, Cone of Economy, and dynamic compensatory mechanisms in common degenerative spinal pathologies

BACKGROUND

Changes in balance are common in individuals with spinal disorders and may cause falls. Balance efficiency, is the ability of a person to maintain their center of gravity with minimal neuromuscular energy expenditure, oftentimes referred to as Cone of Economy (CoE). CoE balance is defined by two sets of measures taken from the center of mass (CoM) and head: 1) the range-of-sway (RoS) in the coronal and sagittal planes, and 2) the overall sway distance. This allows spine caregivers to assess the severity of a patient's balance, balance pattern, and dynamic posture and record the changes following surgical intervention. Maintenance of balance requires coordination between the central nervous and musculoskeletal systems.

RESEARCH QUESTION

To discern differences in balance effort values between common degenerative spinal pathologies and a healthy control group.

METHODS

Three-hundred and forty patients with degenerative spinal pathologies: cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS), sacroiliac dysfunction (SIJD), degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS), single-level lumbar degeneration (LD), and failed back syndrome (FBS), and 40 healthy controls were recruited. A functional balance test was performed approximately one week before surgery recorded by 3D video motion capture.

RESULTS

Balance effort and compensatory mechanisms were found to be significantly greater in degenerative spinal pathologies patients compared to controls. Head and Center of Mass (CoM) overall sway ranged from 65.22 to 92.78 cm (p < 0.004) and 35.77-53.31 cm (p < 0.001), respectively in degenerative spinal pathologies patients and in comparison to controls (Head: 44.52 cm, CoM: 22.24 cm). Patients with degenerative spinal pathologies presented with greater trunk (1.61-2.98°, p < 0.038), hip (4.25-5.87°, p < 0.049), and knee (4.55-6.09°, p < 0.036) excursion when compared to controls (trunk: 0.95°, hip: 2.97°, and knee: 2.43°).

SIGNIFICANCE

The results of this study indicate that patients from a wide variety of degenerative spinal pathologies similarly exhibit markedly diminished balance (and compensatory mechanisms) as indicated by increased sway on a Romberg test and a larger Cone of Economy (CoE) as compared to healthy controls. Balance effort, as measured by overall sway, was found to be approximately double in patients with degenerative spinal pathologies compared to healthy matched controls. Clinicians can compare CoE parameters among symptomatic patients from the different cohorts using the Haddas' CoE classification system to guide their postoperative prognosis.

Fear-avoidance and Patients' Reported Outcomes are Strongly Correlated With Biomechanical Gait Parameters in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Patients

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to explores whether fear-avoidance is associated with altered gait patterns in cervical spinal myelopathy (CSM) patients.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Fear-avoidance is associated with activity restriction and emotional distress in chronic pain patients and with poorer spine surgery outcomes. In adults with spinal deformity, fear and avoidance correlates with gait pattern disruptions. Patients having CSM also display distorted gait.

METHODS

Ninety CSM patients completed the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) questionnaire, and the Fear-avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ). Each patient performed a series of gait trials. Pearson's product correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between the self-reported fear of movement measures and the objective gait biomechanical data.

RESULTS

The TSK total score was correlated with walking speed ( P =0.003), cadence ( P =0.012), stride ( P =0.010) and step ( P =0.036) time, and stride ( P =0.018) and step ( P =0.035) length. The FABQ physical dimension was correlated with walking speed ( P <0.001), cadence ( P <0.001), stride ( P <0.001) and step ( P =0.006) time, stride ( P <0.001) and step ( P <0.001) length, and gait deviation index ( P <0.001). The FABQ work dimension was correlated with walking speed ( P =0.001), cadence ( P =0.001), stride ( P =0.001) and step ( P =0.008) time, and stride ( P =0.014) and step ( P =0.002) length.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide a framework for further investigation of the relationship between psychosocial factors and objectively measured function in patients with CSM. This study demonstrates a strong correlation between fear and avoidance of movement, as measured with the TSK and FABQ and multiple biomechanical gait parameters, as measured with gait analysis. The current results may imply that fear and avoidance may compound and worsen functional deficits arising from CSM, and strongly suggest that fear and avoidance beliefs should be included as a component of presurgical diagnostic process for CSM patients.

Cervical and Thoracic Spondylotic Myelopathies

Spondylotic myelopathies are among the most common disorders of the spine, yet the clinical and treatment approach is far from standardized. This article discusses our current understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical assessment, natural history, and treatment options in degenerative myelopathies of the cervical and thoracic spine. We additionally review diagnostic modalities including imaging modalities of the spine and neurophysiological tools such as electromyography/nerve conduction studies, somatosensory-evoked potentials, and motor-evoked potentials. Assessment instruments that can be used for the assessment of myelopathies are reviewed, including the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, modified-JOA scale, Nurick scale, nine-hole peg test, and 30-m walking test. We also review common disorders that mimic spondylotic myelopathies, as well as helpful diagnostic clues in differentiating spondylotic and nonspondylotic myelopathies.

Cone of economy classification: evolution, concept of stability, severity level, and correlation to patient-reported outcome scores

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective cohort study OBJECTIVE: To determine a classification system for cone of economy (CoE) measurements that defines clinically significant changes in altered balance and to assess if the CoE measurements directly impacts patients reported outcome measures (PROMs). Preoperative functional data is a crucial component of determining patient disability and prognosis. The CoE has been theorized to be the foundation of biomechanical changes that leads to increased energy expenditure and disability in spine patients. PROMs have been developed to quantify the level of debilitation in spine patients but have various limitations.

METHODS

A total of 423 symptomatic adult patients with spine pathology completed a series of PROMs preoperatively including VAS, ODI, Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), Fear and Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ), and Demoralization (DS). Functional balance was tested in this group using a full-body reflective marker set to measure head and center of mass (CoM) sway.

RESULTS

PROMs scores were correlated with the magnitude of the CoE measurements. Patients were separated by the following proposed classification: CoM coronal sway > 1.5 cm, CoM sagittal sway > 3.0 cm, CoM total sway > 30.0 cm, head coronal sway > 3.0 cm, head sagittal sway > 6.0 cm, and head total sway > 60.0 cm. Significant differences were noted in the ODI (< 0.001), FABQ physical activity (< 0.001-0.009), DS (< 0.001-0.023), and TSK (< 0.001-0.032) across almost all planes of motion for both CoM and head sway. The ODI was most sensitive to the difference between groups across CoM and head sway planes with a mean ODI of 47.5-49.5 (p < 0.001) in the severe group versus 36.6-39.3 (p < 0.001) in the moderate group.

CONCLUSIONS

By classifying CoE measurements by the cutoffs proposed, clinically significant alterations in balance can be quantified. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that across spinal pathology, higher magnitude CoE and range of sway measurements correlate with worsening PROMs. The Haddas' CoE classification system in this study helps to identify patients that may benefit from surgery and guide their postoperative prognosis.

Predictors of Return to Normal Neurological Function After Surgery for Moderate and Severe Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: An Analysis of A Global AOSpine Cohort of Patients

BACKGROUND

Multiple studies have established the safety and efficacy of surgical intervention for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). Although the main goal of surgery is symptom stabilization, a subset of patients achieves remarkable improvements.

OBJECTIVE

To identify predictors of return to normal neurological function after surgery for moderate or severe DCM.

METHODS

This is an analysis of 2 prospective multicenter studies (the AOSpine CSM-North America and CSM-International studies) conducted between 2005 and 2011. For patients with complete preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 2-yr follow-up, characteristics were compared between those who achieved a modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score of 18 at 2 yr (no signs of myelopathy) vs controls. Only patients with baseline mJOA ≤ 14 (moderate and severe myelopathy) were included to minimize ceiling effects.

RESULTS

A total of 51 patients (20.3%) out of 251 with moderate or severe baseline myelopathy achieved an mJOA score of 18 at 2 yr. On stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis, T1-weighted (T1W1)-hypointensity (odds ratio [OR] 0.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01-0.79; P = .03) and longer walking time on the 30-m walking test (OR 0.95; 95% CI, 0.92-0.99; P = .03) were independent predictors of outcome, with an area under the curve of 0.71 for the model.

CONCLUSION

In this study, T1W-hypointensity on MRI and longer walking time were found to predict a less likelihood of achieving return to normal neurological function after surgery for moderate or severe DCM. These findings may provide useful information for patient counseling and perioperative expectations.

Efficacy and Safety of Surgery for Mild Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Results of the AOSpine North America and International Prospective Multicenter Studies

BACKGROUND

There is controversy over the optimal treatment strategy for patients with mild degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the degree of impairment in baseline quality of life as compared to population norms, as well as functional, disability, and quality of life outcomes following surgery in a prospective cohort of mild DCM patients undergoing surgical decompression.

METHODS

We identified patients with mild DCM (modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association [mJOA] 15 to 17) enrolled in the prospective, multicenter AOSpine CSM-NA or CSM-I trials. Baseline quality of life Short Form-36 version 2 (SF-36v2) was compared to population norms by the standardized mean difference (SMD). Outcomes, including functional status (mJOA, Nurick grade), disability (NDI [Neck Disability Index]), and quality of life (SF-36v2), were evaluated at baseline and 6 mo, 1 yr, and 2 yr after surgery. Postoperative complications within 30 d of surgery were monitored.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-three patients met eligibility criteria. Mean age was 52.4 yr. There were 67 females (34.7%). Patients had significant impairment in all domains of the SF-36v2 compared to population norms, greatest for Social Functioning (SMD –2.33), Physical Functioning (SMD –2.31), and Mental Health (SMD –2.30). A significant improvement in mean score from baseline to 2-yr follow-up was observed for all major outcome measures, including mJOA (0.87, P < .01), Nurick grade (–1.13, P < .01), NDI (–12.97, P < .01), and SF-36v2 Physical Component Summary (PCS) (5.75, P < .01) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) (6.93, P < .01). The rate of complication was low.

CONCLUSION

Mild DCM is associated with significant impairment in quality of life. Surgery results in significant gains in functional status, level of disability, and quality of life.

Two surgical strategies for treating multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy combined with kyphotic deformity

This study compared the surgical outcomes of two surgical methods for treating multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy (MCSM) combined with cervical kyphotic deformity (CKD): (1) the ELTA method consisted of expansive open-door laminoplasty (EOLP) followed by three-segment anterior cervical discectomy fusion (ACDF), and (2) the LAPI method consisted of long-segment ACDF followed by long-level posterior instrumented fusion (PIF). Surgical treatment of CKD combined with MCSM remains challenging. Surgical considerations should include adequate spinal cord decompression and restoration of satisfactory cervical sagittal alignment (CSA). In certain situations, a solid PIF structure is vital to prevent failure.We included 105 patients who underwent the aforementioned surgical methods for MCSM combined with CKD from January 2013 to December 2017. The minimum follow-up period was 1 year. Comparative analysis was performed to compare the two surgical strategies' preoperative and postoperative functional outcomes, including a visual analog scale for neck pain, neck disability index, the Japanese Orthopedic Association cervical myelopathy score, and the Nurick score, as well as the CSA radiographic outcomes, including C2-7 Cobb angle, C2-7 sagittal vertical axis, and C7 slope. The risk factors related to reduced improvement in functional status were analyzed.A total of 63 patients underwent ELTA and 42 patients underwent LAPI. Improvements in functional outcomes were considerable in both groups. The mean C2-7 Cobb angle was restored from 7.4° ± 2.1° kyphosis to 8.8° ± 4.7° lordosis in the ELTA group and from 15.3° ± 4.2° kyphosis to 15.8° ± 8.1° lordosis in the LAPI group. The maximal correction angle was 22.6° in the ELTA group and 42.6° in the LAPI group.Although changes in CSA seemed to be significantly correlated with improvements of functional status, the ELTA and LAPI methods were both effective for treating MCSM combined with CKD, when appropriately selected. The ELTA method was indicated for MCSM patients who had a low degree of CKD, whereas the LAPI method was indicated for MCSM patients who had poor function scores and a high degree of CKD.

The Effect of Surgical Decompression on Functional Balance Testing in Patients With Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

Quantify the extent of change in dynamic balance and stability in a group of patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) after cervical decompression surgery and to compare them with matched healthy controls.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

CSM is a naturally progressive degenerative condition that commonly results in loss of fine motor control in the hands and upper extremities and in gait imbalance. Whereas this was previously thought of as an irreversible condition, more recent studies are demonstrating postoperative improvements in balance and stability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty subjects with symptomatic CSM and 25 matched asymptomatic controls between the ages of 45 and 75 years underwent functional balance testing using a 3D motion capture system to gather kinematic and spatiotemporal parameters. CSM subjects underwent testing 1 week before surgery and again 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Patients with CSM exhibited markedly diminished balance as indicated by increased sway on a Romberg test and requiring significantly more time and a wider stance to complete tandem gait tests. The surgical intervention resulted in improved balance at the 3-month postoperative time point; however, kinematic and spatiotemporal parameters did not completely normalize to the levels observed in asymptomatic controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Human motion video capture can be used to robustly quantify balance parameters in the setting of CSM. Compared with healthy controls, such patients exhibited increased standing sway and poorer performance on a tandem gait task. The surgical intervention resulted in significant improvement in many of the measures of functional balance, but overall profiles had not completely returned to normal when measured 3 months after surgery. These data reinforce the importance of operative intervention in the treatment of symptomatic CSM with the goal of halting disease progress but the expectation that balance may actually improve postoperatively.

Outcome Measures and Variables Affecting Prognosis of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: WFNS Spine Committee Recommendations

This study is conducted to review the literature systematically to determine most reliable outcome measures, important clinical and radiological variables affecting the prognosis in cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients. A literature search was performed for articles published during the last 10 years. As functional outcome measures we recommend to use modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association scale, Nurick’s grade, and Myelopathy Disability Index. Three clinical variables that affect the outcomes are age, duration of symptoms, and severity of the myelopathy. Examination findings require more detailed study to validate their effect on the outcomes. The predictive variables affecting the outcomes are hand atrophy, leg spasticity, clonus, and Babinski’s sign. Among the radiological variables, the curvature of the cervical spine is the most important predictor of prognosis. Patients with instability are expected to have a poor surgical outcome. Spinal cord compression ratio is a critical factor for prognosis. High signal intensity on T2-weighted magnetic resonance images is a negative predictor for prognosis. The most important predictors of outcome are preoperative severity and duration of symptoms. T2 hyperintensity and cord compression ratio can also predict outcomes. New radiological tests may give promising results in the future.

Functional Balance Testing in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Patients

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to quantify the amount of sway associated with maintaining a balanced posture in a group of untreated cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) patients.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Balance is defined as the ability of the human body to maintain its center of mass (COM) within the base of support with minimal postural sway. Sway is the movement of the COM in the horizontal plane when a person is standing in a static position. CSM patients have impaired body balance and proprioceptive loss.

METHODS

Thirty-two CSM patients performed a series of functional balance tests a week before surgery. Sixteen healthy controls (HCs) performed a similar balance test. Patients are instructed to stand erect with feet together and eyes opened in their self-perceived balanced and natural position for a full minute. All test subjects were fitted to a full-body reflective markers set and surface electromyography (EMG).

RESULTS

CSM patients had more COM sway in the anterior-posterior (CSM: 2.87 cm vs. C: 0.74 cm; P = 0.023), right-left (CSM: 5.16 cm vs. C: 2.51 cm; P = 0.003) directions as well as head sway (anterior-posterior - CSM: 2.17 cm vs. C: 0.82 cm; P = 0.010 and right-left - CSM: 3.66 cm vs. C: 1.69 cm; P = 0.044), more COM (CSM: 44.72 cm vs. HC: 19.26 cm, p = 0.001), and head (Pre: 37.87 cm vs. C: 19.93 cm, P = 0.001) total sway in comparison to controls. CSM patients utilized significantly more muscle activity to maintain static standing, evidenced by the increased trunk and lower extremity muscle activity (multifidus, erector spinae, rectus femoris, and tibialis anterior, P < 0.050) during 1-minute standing.

CONCLUSION

In symptomatic CSM patients, COM and head total sway were significantly greater than controls. Individuals with CSM exhibit more trunk and lower extremity muscle activity, and thus expend more neuromuscular energy to maintain a balanced, static standing posture. This study is the first effort to evaluate global balance as a dynamic process in this patient population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Gait Alteration in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Elucidated by Ground Reaction Forces

STUDY DESIGN

.: Prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

.: Analyze GRF parameters in cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) patients to elucidate gait alterations as compared with healthy controls.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

.: During the human gait cycle, the magnitude and direction of the force each foot imparts on the ground varies in a controlled fashion to propel the body's center of mass forward. Alterations in GRF patterns can both point to subtle gait disturbances and explain altered gait patterns such as that seen in CSM.

METHODS

.: Thirty-two patients with symptomatic CSM who have been scheduled for surgery, along with 30 healthy controls (HC), underwent clinical gait analysis a week before surgery. Vertical GRF parameters and force magnitude and timing at various points of the gait cycle (i.e., heel contact, maximum weight acceptance, mid-stance, and push off) were analyzed and compared between groups.

RESULTS

.: Increased heel contact (CSM: 60.13% vs. HC: 27.82% of body weight, BW,P = 0.011), maximum weight acceptance (CSM: 120.13% vs. HC: 100.97% of BW, P = 0.016), and diminished push off (CSM: 91.35% vs. HC: 106.54% of BW, P = 0.001) forces were discovered in CSM patients compared with HC. Compared with controls CSM patients had delayed heel contact (CSM: 9.32% vs. HC: 5.12% of gait cycle, P = 0.050) and earlier push off (CSM: 54.96% vs. HC: 59.0% of gait cycle, P = 0.050), resulting in a shorter stance phase.

CONCLUSION

.: This study reinforces how CSM patients commonly exhibit altered gait patterns, but also uniquely demonstrates the increased heel-contract and maximum weight acceptance forces, diminished toe-off forces, and the shorter stance phase to absorb the BW load. When examined from a global perspective, these altered GRF parameters reflect the difficulty CSM patients have with catching their center of mass during heel-contact to avoid falling and with subsequently propelling themselves forward.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

LAMINOPLASTY AND CORPECTOMY IN THE TREATMENT OF CERVICAL SPONDYLOTIC MYELOPATHY

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cervical Spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a disabling manifestation of extended cervical stenosis characterized by pronounced neurological dysfunction. Decompressive interventions contribute to significant regression of symptoms and, in some cases, complete recovery can be achieved. Objective: To explore the potential of laminoplasty in patients with extended cervical spondylotic stenoses complicated by myelopathy, and to develop approaches for surgical intervention in these patients. Methods: Fifty-six patients were included in the study. Laminoplasty was performed in 34 patients. Corpectomy was performed in 22 patients who made up the comparison group. The frequency and initial severity of concomitant non-neurological disorders in both groups were comparable. Results: Indications for laminoplasty were determined. They include: symptoms of spondylotic myelopathy, three or more levels of compression, preservation of lordosis, absence of signs of segmental instability, inability to perform anterior decompression, and age over 55 years. The presence of signs of segmental instability, kyphotic deformation, and history of mental disorders may be considered as contraindications for this surgery. Conclusions: Due to a number of advantages, laminoplasty is the treatment of choice for extended cervical spondylotic stenosis. Adequate selection of patients based on the evaluation of clinical symptoms, extension of stenosis, neurological signs and neuroimaging features enable excellent results to be achieved. Level of Evidence: II. Type of Study: Prospective comparative study.