Comparing outcomes of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in workman's versus non-workman's compensation population

The Influence of Workers' Compensation Status on Patient-Reported Outcomes after Cervical Disc Arthroplasty at an Ambulatory Surgical Center

INTRODUCTION

Workers' compensation (WC) status tends to negatively affect patient outcomes in spine surgery. This study aims to evaluate the potential effect of WC status on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after cervical disc arthroplasty (CDR) at an ambulatory surgical center (ASC).

METHODS

A single-surgeon registry was retrospectively reviewed for patients who had undergone elective CDR at an ASC. Patients with missing insurance data were excluded. Propensity score-matched cohorts were generated by the presence or lack of WC status. PROs were collected preoperatively and at 6-week, 12-week, 6-month, and 1-year time points. PROs included the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function (PROMIS-PF), visual analog scale (VAS) neck and arm pain, and Neck Disability Index. PROs were compared within and between groups. Minimum clinically important difference (MCID) achievement rates were compared between groups.

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients were included, with 36 without WC (non-WC) and 27 with WC. The non-WC cohort demonstrated postoperative improvement in all PROs at all time points, with the exception of VAS arm past the 12-week point ( P ≤ 0.030, all). The WC cohort demonstrated postoperative improvement in VAS neck at 12-week, 6-month, and 1-year time points ( P ≤ 0.025, all). The WC cohort improved in VAS arm and Neck Disability Index at the 12-week and 1-year points as well ( P ≤ 0.029, all). The non-WC cohort reported superior PRO scores in every PRO at one or more postoperative time points ( P ≤ 0.046, all). The non-WC cohort demonstrated higher rates of minimum clinically important difference achievement in PROMIS-PF at 12 weeks ( P ≤ 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Patients with WC status undergoing CDR at an ASC may report inferior pain, function, and disability outcomes compared with those with private or government-provided insurance. Perceived inferior disability in WC patients persisted into the long-term follow-up period (1 year). These findings may aid surgeons in setting realistic preoperative expectations with patients at risk of inferior outcomes.

Differences in Time to Achieve Minimum Clinically Important Difference Between Patients Undergoing Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion and Cervical Disc Replacement

OBJECTIVE

To compare patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) versus cervical disc replacement (CDR) for time to minimum clinically important difference (MCID) achievement and predictors of delayed MCID achievement for the patient-reported outcomes (PROs), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function, Neck Disability Index, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) neck, and VAS arm.

METHODS

PROs of patients undergoing ACDF or CDR were collected preoperatively and postoperatively at 6-week/12-week/6-month/1-year/2-year periods. MCID achievement was calculated through comparison of changes in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement to previously established values in literature. Time to MCID achievement and predictors for delayed MCID achievement were determined through Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariable Cox regression, respectively.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-seven patients were identified, with 118 and 79 undergoing ACDF and CDR, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated faster time to achieve MCID for CDR patients in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function (P = 0.006). Early predictors of MCID achievement through Cox regression were CDR procedure, Asian ethnicity, elevated preoperative PROs of VAS neck and VAS arm (hazard ratio, 1.16-7.28). Workers' compensation was a late predictor of MCID achievement (hazard ratio, 0.15).

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients achieved MCID in physical function, disability, and back pain outcomes within 2 years of surgery. Patients undergoing CDR achieved MCID faster in physical function. Early predictors of MCID achievement were CDR procedure, Asian ethnicity, and elevated preoperative PROs of pain outcomes. Workers' compensation was a late predictor. These findings may be helpful in managing patient expectations.

Does Symptom Duration Prior to Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion for Disc Herniation Influence Patient-Reported Outcomes in a Workers' Compensation Population?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of symptom duration before anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in workers' compensation patients.

METHODS

A prospective registry was searched for workers' compensation patients who underwent ACDF for herniated disc. Two cohorts based on symptom duration were formed: lesser duration (LD) (<6 months) and prolonged duration (PD) (≥6 months). PROs were collected preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. PROs were compared within and between groups. Rates of minimum clinically important difference (MCID) were compared between groups.

RESULTS

The study included 63 patients. The LD cohort reported improvement in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Physical Function (PROMIS-PF), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and visual analog scale (VAS) neck at 12 weeks and 6 months and VAS arm at all periods (all P ≤ 0.036). The LD cohort reported improvement in NDI at 12 weeks and 6 months and VAS arm at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months (all P ≤ 0.037). Between groups, the LD cohort demonstrated superior scores in PROMIS-PF at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months; NDI preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months; VAS neck at 12 weeks; and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at 6 months (all P ≤ 0.045). The LD group was more likely to achieve MCID in PROMIS-PF at 12 weeks (P = 0.012). The PD group was more likely to achieve MCID in PHQ-9 at 6 months (P = 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of length of symptom duration before ACDF in workers' compensation patients, the patients demonstrated improvements in disability and arm pain. Patients with LD also demonstrated improvements in physical function and neck pain. Patients with LD demonstrated superior scores in physical function, pain, disability, and mental health and were more likely to achieve clinically significant improvement in physical function. Patients with PD were more likely to achieve clinically significant improvement in mental health.

Does Age and Medicare Status Affect Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion?

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine if Medicare status and age affect clinical outcomes following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.

METHODS

Patients who underwent cervical discectomy and fusion between 2014 and 2020 with complete preoperative and 1-year postoperative patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were grouped based on Medicare status and age: no Medicare under 65 years (NM < 65), Medicare under 65 years (M < 65), no Medicare 65 years or older (NM ≥ 65), and Medicare 65 years or older (M ≥ 65). Multivariate regression for ΔPROMs (Δ: postoperative minus preoperative) controlled for confounding differences between groups. Significant was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 1288 patients were included, with each group improving in the visual analog score (VAS) Neck (all, P < 0.001), VAS Arm (M < 65: P = 0.003; remaining groups: P < 0.001), and Neck Disability Index (M < 65: P = 0.009; remaining groups: P < 0.001) following surgery. Only M < 65 did not significantly improve in the Physical Component Score (PCS-12) and modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score (P = 0.256 and P = 0.092, respectively). When comparing patients under 65 years, non-Medicare patients had better preoperative PCS-12 (P < 0.001), Neck Disability Index (P < 0.001), and modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (P < 0.001), as well as better postoperative values for all PROMs (P < 0.001), but there were no differences in ΔPROMs. Multivariate analysis identified M < 65 to be an independent predictor of decreased improvement in ΔPCS-12 (β = -4.07, P = 0.015), ΔVAS Neck (β = 1.17, P = 0.010), and ΔVAS Arm (β = 1.15, P = 0.025) compared to NM < 65.

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of age and Medicare status, all patients undergoing cervical discectomy and fusion had significant clinical improvement postoperatively. However, Medicare patients under age 65 have a smaller magnitude of improvement in PROMs.

Relationship between smoking and postoperative complications of cervical spine surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

To determine whether smoking has adverse effects on postoperative complications following spine cervical surgery (PROSPERO 2021: CRD42021269648). We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science through 13 July 2021 for cohort and case–control studies that investigated the effect of smoking on postoperative complications after cervical spine surgery. Two researchers independently screened the studies and extracted data according to the selection criteria. The meta-analysis included 43 studies, including 27 case–control studies and 16 cohort studies, with 10,020 patients. Pooled estimates showed that smoking was associated with overall postoperative complications (effect estimate [ES] = 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.62–2.44, p < 0.0001), respiratory complications (ES = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.62–4.49, p < 0.0001), reoperation (ES = 2.06, 95% CI: 1.50–2.81, p < 0.0001), dysphagia (ES = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.06–2.10, p = 0.022), wound infection (ES = 3.21, 95% CI: 1.62–6.36, p = 0.001), and axial neck pain (ES = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.25–3.12, p = 0.003). There were no significant differences between the smoking and nonsmoking groups in terms of fusion (ES = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94–1.00, p = 0.0097), operation time (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 0.08, 95% CI: −5.54 to 5.71, p = 0.977), estimated blood loss (WMD = −5.31, 95% CI: −148.83 to 139.22, p = 0.943), length of hospital stay (WMD = 1.01, 95% CI: −2.17 to 4.20, p = 0.534), Visual Analog Scale-neck pain score (WMD = −0.19, 95% CI: −1.19 to 0.81, p = 0.707), Visual Analog Scale-arm pain score (WMD = −0.50, 95% CI: −1.53 to 0.53, p = 0.343), Neck Disability Index score (WMD = 11.46, 95% CI: −3.83 to 26.76, p = 0.142), or Japanese Orthopedic Association Scores (WMD = −1.75, 95% CI: −5.27 to 1.78, p = 0.332). Compared with nonsmokers, smokers seem to be more significantly associated with overall complications, respiratory complications, reoperation, longer hospital stay, dysphagia, wound infection and axial neck pain after cervical spine surgery. It is essential to provide timely smoking cessation advice and explanation to patients before elective cervical spine surgery.

The Risk of Nonunion in Smokers Revisited: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Systemic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To review and establish the effect of tobacco smoking on risk of nonunion following spinal fusion.

METHODS

A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to December 31, 2020, was conducted. Cohort studies directly comparing smokers with nonsmokers that provided the number of nonunions and fused segments were included. Following data extraction, the risk of bias was assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Studies Tool, and the strength of evidence for nonunion was evaluated using the GRADE working group criteria. All data analysis was performed in Review Manager 5, and a random effects model was used.

RESULTS

Twenty studies assessing 3009 participants, which included 1117 (37%) smokers, met inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis found that smoking was associated with increased risk of nonunion compared to not smoking ≥1 year following spine surgery (RR 1.91, 95% CI 1.56 to 2.35). Smoking was significantly associated with increased nonunion in those receiving either allograft (RR 1.39, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.73) or autograft (RR 2.04, 95% CI 1.54 to 2.72). Both multilevel and single level fusions carried increased risk of nonunion in smokers (RR 2.30, 95% CI 1.64 to 3.23; RR 1.79, 95% CI 1.12 to 2.86, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Smoking status carried a global risk of nonunion for spinal fusion procedures regardless of follow-up time, location, number of segments fused, or grafting material. Further comparative studies with robust methodology are necessary to establish treatment guidelines tailored to smokers.

Workers' Compensation Association With Clinical Outcomes After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion

BACKGROUND

Research has suggested that workers' compensation (WC) status can result in poor outcomes after anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the influence WC status has on postoperative clinical outcomes after ACDF.

METHODS

A surgical database was reviewed for patients undergoing primary or revision single-level ACDF. Patients were grouped into WC vs Non-WC, and differences in baseline characteristics were assessed. Postoperative improvement was assessed for differences in mean scores between WC subgroups for visual analog scale (VAS) arm, VAS neck, 12-item Short Form Physical Composite Score, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System physical function (PF), and Neck Disability Index (NDI) at preoperative and postoperative time points. Minimum clinically important difference (MCID) achievement was compared between groups.

RESULTS

The patient cohort included 44 with WC and 95 without. The cohort was 40% female with an average age of 48 years and mean body mass index of 30. Mean VAS arm, VAS neck, NDI, 12-item Short-Form Physical Composite Score, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System PF scores differed between groups; however, the difference was not sustained at the 1-yr time point. MCID achievement among WC subgroups was different for VAS arm (6 wk through 6 mo, P = .005), VAS neck (3 and 6 mo, P < .01), and NDI (3 and 6 mo, P < .05). No statistically significant difference was noted between cohorts for overall rates of MCID achievement for all patient-reported outcome measures collected.

CONCLUSION

WC patients reported similar preoperative and 1-yr postoperative neck and arm pain compared with non-WC patients after ACDF. One-yr MCID achievement rates were similar between cohorts for disability and PF scores.

Effects of Anterior Plating on Achieving Clinically Meaningful Improvement Following Single-Level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Objective

The clinical utility of anterior cervical plating for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures remains controversial. This study aims to compare the impact of cervical plating on achievement of minimum clinically important difference (MCID) up to 2 years following ACDF.

Methods

Patients undergoing primary, single-level ACDF procedures were grouped based on whether their procedure included application of an anterior cervical plate. Demographics, preoperative spinal diagnoses, operative characteristics, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were compared between plating groups. Achievement of an MCID was assessed using the following previously established thresholds: 12-item Short Form health survey physical component summary (SF-12 PCS) 8.1, visual analogue scale (VAS) neck 2.6, VAS arm 4.1, Neck Disability Index (NDI) 8.5. Rates of MCID achievement were compared between groups.

Results

The cohort included 192 patients of whom 102 received plating and 90 received no plating. Plating status was significantly associated with Charlson Comorbidity Index and insurance status. Operative duration and estimated blood loss were significantly greater for the plating group. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements at the majority of postoperative timepoints. Significant intergroup differences in PROM improvement were demonstrated for VAS neck and NDI at 6 weeks. Rates of MCID achievement differed significantly between groups for NDI at 6 weeks, and 12 weeks, and SF-12 PCS overall.

Conclusion

Patients improved significantly in terms of pain, disability and physical function, regardless of plating status, and with the exception of early neck pain and disability, these improvements were similar between groups. Patients that underwent plating as part of their ACDF procedure achieved an MCID for physical function at lower rates overall.

The Effect of Smoking on the Fusion Rate of Spinal Fusion Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the fusion rate after spinal fusion surgery between smokers and nonsmokers.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science electronic databases through March 10, 2021 for cohort and case-control studies assessing the effect of smoking on the fusion rate of spinal fusion surgery. Two researchers independently screened the literature and extracted data according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan, version 5.4.

RESULTS

A total of 26 studies, including 4 case-control studies and 22 cohort studies, with 4409 patients, were included in the present meta-analysis. Follow-up was at least 6 months. Overall, the pooled results demonstrated that the fusion rate of smokers after spinal fusion was significantly lower than that of nonsmokers. The odds ratio (OR) was 0.55 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45-0.67, P < 0.0001). Subgroup analyses by fusion level showed the adverse effect of smoking on the fusion rate at single level (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.41-0.91, P = 0.02) was more significant than that of multiple levels (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.38-0.80, P = 0.0010). Subgroup analysis according to the type of bone graft revealed an apparent association between smoking and fusion rate in the autograft subgroup (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.33-0.66, P < 0.0001) but not in the allograft subgroup (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.47-1.01, P = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

The fusion rate of smokers is significantly lower than that of nonsmokers in spinal fusion surgery. Smokers should be encouraged to quit smoking to improve the outcome of spinal fusion surgery.

Employment Status for the First Decade Following Randomization to Cervical Disc Arthroplasty Versus Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

An analysis of employment status data up to 10 years following the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) randomized trial and extension as post-approval study comparing BRYAN cervical disc (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN) arthroplasty (CDA) versus single-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) was performed.

OBJECTIVE

Ten-year experience with the BRYAN disc arthroplasty trial provides opportunity to report patient employment data.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The long-term consequences of arthroplasty remain incomplete, including the occurrence of occupational compromise.

METHODS

Patients' employment status were measured at regular intervals in both groups up to 10 years.

RESULTS

The preoperative employment status proportion was comparable between investigational (BRYAN CDA) and control (ACDF) groups. In the investigational group, 49.2% returned to work at 6 weeks compared with 39.4% of the control group (P = 0.046). At 6 months and 2 years postoperatively, there was a similar likelihood of active employment in both groups. After 2 years at all time points, 10% drop-off seen in control group employment, but not in investigational group. At 10 years, 76.2% CDA patients were employed to 64.1% ACDF patients (P = 0.057). Preoperative variables influencing work status at 10 years following CDA included: preoperative work status, age, and SF-36 Mental Component Score (SF-36 MCS); whereas, no significant preoperative factor identified with ACDF. Time to return to work was influenced in both groups by preoperative work status; and in the ACDF group: reaching age 65 at 10-year visit, preoperative arm pain and NDI score had significant influences.

CONCLUSION

More patients returned to work at 6 weeks after CDA compared with ACDF, although there was no difference by 6 months. After 2 years, a nonsignificant trend toward higher employment rates in the arthroplasty group was evident, but this difference could not be validated due to the very high rate of loss of patients to the follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

PROMIS PF in the Evaluation of Postoperative Outcomes in Workers' Compensation Patients Following Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the improvement of clinical outcomes in Workers' Compensation (WC) patients compared with non-WC patients utilizing Patient-reported Outcome Measurement Information System Physical Function (PROMIS PF) following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

To our knowledge, there has not been a study to evaluate clinical outcomes of WC patients utilizing the PROMIS PF survey.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Patients undergoing a primary, 1 to 3-level ACDF were retrospectively reviewed and stratified according to insurance (WC and non-WC). Demographic and perioperative characteristics were compared using χ test and independent t tests. Change in PROMIS PF scores was calculated using paired t tests. Differences in postoperative PROMIS PF scores and changes in PROMIS PF from baseline were compared using linear regression.

RESULTS

In total, 124 1 to 3-level ACDF patients were included: 36 had WC insurance and 88 had non-WC insurance. WC patients were younger and more likely to be obese. WC patients reported significantly lower PROMIS PF scores preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months timepoints. However, both cohorts reported comparable PROMIS PF scores at the 1-year timepoint. WC patients demonstrated similar improvements from baseline through 1-year postoperatively compared with non-WC patients. For both non-WC and WC cohort, the change in the postoperative PROMIS PF score from baseline was significant at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. However, in both cohorts, the change in the postoperative PROMIS PF score from baseline was not significantly different at 6 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, WC patients had worse baseline physical function as indicated by lower preoperative PROMIS PF scores and reported lower PROMIS PF scores postoperatively. However, there were no significant differences when comparing the postoperative change from baseline between the cohorts. Both cohorts experienced significant postoperative improvements from baseline. This study established that PROMIS PF is an effective tool to evaluate recovery of WC patients following ACDF.

Risk Factors Associated With Failure to Reach Minimal Clinically Important Difference in Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Background

The minimum clinically importance difference (MCID) represents a threshold for improvements in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) that patients deem important. No previous study has comprehensively examined risk factors for failure to achieve MCID after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures for radiculopathic symptomatology. The purpose of this study is to determine risk factors for failure to reach MCID for Neck Disability Index (NDI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) neck pain, and VAS arm pain in patients undergoing 1- or 2-level ACDF procedures.

Methods

A surgical registry of patients who underwent primary, 1- or 2-level ACDF from 2014 to 2016 was reviewed. Rates of MCID achievement for NDI, VAS neck pain, and VAS arm pain at final follow-up were calculated based on published MCID values. Patients were then categorized into demographic and procedural categories. Bivariate regression was used to test for association of demographic and procedural characteristics with failure to reach MCID for each PRO. The final multivariate model including all demographic and procedural categories as controls was created using backward stepwise regression.

Results

Eighty-three, 84, and 77 patients were included in the analysis for VAS neck, VAS arm, and NDI, respectively. Rates of MCID achievement for VAS neck, VAS arm, and NDI were 55.4%, 36.9%, and 76.6%, respectively. On bivariate analysis, patients with Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) ≥ 2 were less likely to achieve MCID for NDI than patients with CCI < 2 (P = .025). On multivariate analysis, CCI ≥ 2 (P = .025) was further associated with failure to reach MCID for NDI.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that the majority of patients do not reach MCID for arm pain. Additionally, higher comorbidity burden as evidenced by higher CCI scores is a negative predictive factor for the achievement of MCID in neck disability following ACDF.

Level of Evidence

3.

Effect of Social Factors on Surgical Outcomes in Cervical Disc Disease

Background

Daily clinical practice shows us how diametrically different surgical outcomes can occur in particular groups of patients sharing the same diagnosis and being subjected to the same treatment. Patient-reported outcomes appear to be significantly influenced by social factors and patients’ emotional status. Data on such variables were collated and analyzed statistically with the aim of confirming our clinical observations.

Methods

We analyzed a group of 100 patients following cervical disc surgery. The clinical evaluation was based on a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the neck disability index (NDI). Non-clinical data comprised education status, employment status, body mass index (BMI), and history of depressive episodes in the period immediately preceding the surgery, which was investigated using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).

Results

Patients who had completed university or secondary school education had a significantly lower BMI and lower BDI scores and they reported less pain at 12 months postoperatively than patients with vocational or elementary school education only. Patients who were employed at the time of the study or were retired demonstrated significantly lower NDI scores both before the surgery and at 12 months postoperatively, as well as lower BDI scores compared to those who were unemployed or drew disability pensions. Factors such as age or BMI score did not exert a direct effect on treatment outcomes assessed as changes in the VAS and NDI scores.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment for the cervical disc disease decreases pain and improves patients’ quality of life. Treatment outcomes are also influenced by social factors and patients’ emotional status.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Outcomes over 10 Years: A Prospective Study

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study with >10-year follow-up.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the long-term, >10-year clinical outcomes of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and to compare outcomes based on primary diagnosis of disc herniation, stenosis or advanced degenerative disc disease (DDD), number of levels treated, and preexisting adjacent level degeneration.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

ACDF is a proven treatment for patients with stenosis and disc herniation and results in significantly improved short- and intermediate-term outcomes. Motion preservation treatments may result in improved long-term outcomes but need to be compared to long-term ACDF outcomes reference.

METHODS

Patients who had disc herniation, stenosis, and DDD and underwent ACDF with or without decompression were prospectively enrolled and followed for a minimum of 10 years with outcome assessment at various intervals. All 159 consecutive patients had autogenous tricortical iliac crest bone graft and plate instrumentation used. Outcomes included visual analog scale for neck and arm pain. pain drawing, Oswestry Disability Index, and self-assessment of procedure success. Preoperative adjacent-level disc degeneration, pseudarthrosis, and secondary operations were analyzed.

RESULTS

For all diagnostic groups, significant outcomes improvement was seen at all follow-up periods for all scales relative to preoperative scores. Outcomes were not related to age, gender, number of levels treated, and minimally to preexisting degeneration at the adjacent level. The use of narcotic pain medication decreased substantially. Neurological deficits almost all resolved. Patient self-reported success ranged from 85% to 95%. Over the long term, additional surgery for pseudarthrosis (10%) occurred in the early follow-up period, and for adjacent segment degeneration (21%), which occurred linearly during the >10-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

ACDF leads to significantly improved outcomes for all primary diagnoses and was sustained for >10 years' follow-up. Secondary surgeries were performed for pseudarthrosis repair and for symptomatic adjacent-level degeneration.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

Spine Surgery Outcomes in Workers' Compensation Patients

Occupational spine injuries place a substantial burden on employees, employers, and the workers' compensation system. Both temporary and permanent spinal conditions contribute substantially to disability and lost wages. Numerous investigations have revealed that workers' compensation status is a negative risk factor for outcomes after spine injuries and spine surgery. However, positive patient outcomes and return to work are possible in spine-related workers' compensation cases with proper patient selection, appropriate surgical indications, and realistic postoperative expectations. Quality improvement measures aimed at optimizing outcomes and minimizing permanent disability are crucial to mitigating the burden of disability claims.

Relationship between depression and clinical outcome following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

BACKGROUND

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a commonly performed procedure for patients with symptomatic degenerative conditions of the cervical spine. The objective is to assess the impact of preoperative depression and other baseline characteristics on patient reported clinical outcomes following ACDF surgery based on the experience at our institution.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of some patients undergoing ACDF at a single institution from 2012 to 2014. Ninety-three patients that underwent an ACDF procedure were included. The primary outcome measure was post-operative Nurick score.

RESULTS

Sixteen (17.2%) patients had a formal diagnosis of depression compared to 77 (82.8%) patients without depression. On univariate analysis, patients with depression had statistically significantly higher Nurick scores compared to patients without depression after surgery (coefficient =0.55, 95% CI: 0.21-0.90, P=0.002). On multivariate analysis, there was a trend toward higher postoperative Nurick scores in patients that had depression (coefficient =0.31, 95% CI: -0.01-0.63, P=0.057).

CONCLUSIONS

This small retrospective study reveals an inverse relationship between preoperative depression and functional outcome. Further research should be performed to investigate this relationship and to investigate if treating depression can improve postoperative outcomes.

Worker's Compensation Status and Outcomes Following Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Prospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Anterior lumbar-interbody fusion (ALIF) is a commonly performed procedure for degenerative spinal disorders with reasonable clinical and safety outcomes, although there is limited evidence regarding the impact of ALIF in patients receiving worker's compensation (WC) compared with those without. The aim of our study is to identify whether WC status affects the clinical outcome and rates of complication following ALIF surgery in a prospective cohort.

METHODS

We followed prospectively 114 consecutive patients undergoing ALIF surgery from 2012-2014. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: those with worker's compensation (WC) (n = 24) and those without (n = 90). Patients were evaluated preoperative and postoperatively. Outcome measures included Short Form-12 (SF-12), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), surgical complications, and subsidence.

RESULTS

In terms of baseline traits, the WC group had a significantly higher proportion of class III/IV obesity patients, who were younger (46.3 vs. 60.2 years) compared with non-WC. There were no significant differences in fusion rates or preoperative or postoperative disk height. No significant differences were found for hospital stay, blood loss, or operation duration. Similar rates of complications were found between WC versus non-WC cohorts. No significant difference was noted in clinical improvement between the 2 cohorts with SF-12 PCS, SF-12 MCS, or ODI (P = 0.232). No significant difference was found in the proportion of patients achieving minimal clinically important difference for SF-12 PCS/MCS or ODI.

CONCLUSIONS

In our prospective cohort, there were no significant differences found between WC versus non-WC patients in terms of fusion rates, complications, clinical outcomes, or proportion of patients achieving minimal clinically important difference.

The Impact of Preoperative Depression and Health State on Quality-of-Life Outcomes after Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion

Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Objective We sought to assess the predictive value of preoperative depression and health state on 1-year quality-of-life outcomes after anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF). Methods We analyzed 106 patients who underwent ACDF. All patients had either bilateral or unilateral cervical radiculopathy. Preoperative and 1-year postoperative health outcomes were assessed based on the visual analog scale, Pain Disability Questionnaire (PDQ), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire. Univariable and multivariate regression analyses were performed to assess for preoperative predictors of 1-year change in health status according to the EQ-5D. Results Compared with preoperative health states, the ACDF cohort showed statistically significant improved PDQ (78.5 versus 57.9), PHQ-9 (9.7 versus 5.3), and EQ-5D (0.55 versus 0.68) scores at 1 year postoperatively and surpassed the minimum clinically important difference for the EQ-5D of 0.1 units (all p ≤ 0.01). Multivariate linear regression indicated that anxiolytic use and higher EQ-5D preoperative scores were associated with less 1-year postoperative improvement in health status. Although not statistically significant, clinically important effects of preoperative depression, as measured by the PHQ-9, were observed on postoperative QOL outcome (-0.006, 95% confidence interval -0.014 to 0.001). Conclusions Of patients who undergo ACDF with similar preoperative QOL health states, those with a greater degree of depression may have lower improvements in postoperative QOL compared with those with less depression. Patients with anxiety and better preoperative health states also attain less 1-year QOL improvements.

Factors Affecting Length of Stay and Complications After Elective Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: A Study of 2164 Patients From The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project Database (ACS NSQIP)

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of the prospective American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (ACS NSQIP) database with 30-day follow-up of 2164 patients undergoing elective anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

OBJECTIVE

To determine factors independently associated with increased length of stay (LOS) and complications after ACDF to facilitate preoperative planning and setting of realistic expectations for patients and providers.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The effect of individual preoperative factors on LOS and complications has been evaluated in small-scale studies. Large database analysis with multivariate analysis of these variables has not been reported.

METHODS

The ACS NSQIP database from 2005 to 2010 was queried for patients undergoing ACDF procedures. Preoperative and perioperative variables were collected. Multivariate regression determined significant predictors (P<0.05) of extended LOS and complications.

RESULTS

Average LOS was 2.0±4.0 days (mean±SD) with a range of 0-103 days. By multivariate analysis, age 65 years and above, functional status, transfer from facility, preoperative anemia, and diabetes were the preoperative factors predictive of extended LOS. Major complications, minor complications, and extended surgery time were the perioperative factors associated with increased LOS. The elongating effect of these variables was determined, and ranged from 0.5 to 5.0 days. Seventy-one patients (3.3%) had a total of 92 major complications, including return to operating room (40), venous thrombotic events (13), respiratory (21), cardiac (6), mortality (5), sepsis (4), and organ space infection (3). Multivariate analysis determined ASA score ≥3, preoperative anemia, age 65 years and above, extended surgery time, and male sex to be predictive of major complications (odds ratios ranging between 1.756 and 2.609). No association was found between levels fused and LOS or complications.

CONCLUSION

Extended LOS after ACDF is associated with factors including age, anemia, and diabetes, as well as the development of postoperative complications. One in 33 patients develops a major complication postoperatively, which are associated with an increased LOS of 5 days.

The Effect of Workers' Compensation Status on Outcomes of Cervical Disc Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Comparative, Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Receiving Workers' Compensation benefits has been associated with inferior outcomes after lumbar fusion. The purpose of our study was to compare the outcomes of cervical disc arthroplasty between patients receiving and those not receiving Workers' Compensation.

METHODS

Patient-reported outcomes, reoperations, complications, and return-to-work status were analyzed at one year after surgery in an observational cohort of consecutive patients who underwent single-level or multilevel cervical disc arthroplasty for symptomatic cervical disc conditions, including radiculopathy or discogenic pain with or without radiculopathy, exclusive of myelopathy.

RESULTS

Of the 189 patients who underwent cervical disc arthroplasty, 144 received Workers' Compensation and forty-five did not. The mean scores on all patient-reported measures improved significantly from preoperative baseline to one year after surgery (p < 0.001), and the improvement in patient-reported outcomes did not differ significantly between the Workers' Compensation and the non-Workers' Compensation group (respectively, 22.7 compared with 25.0 for the Neck Disability Index; 8.3 compared with 9.6 for the Short Form (SF)-36 physical component summary; 7.9 compared with 9.6 for the SF-36 mental component summary; 3.5 compared with 3.7 for neck pain; and 2.6 compared with 2.8 for arm pain). The two groups also did not differ significantly in the rate of reoperations (7.6% for those receiving Workers' Compensation compared with 13.3% for those not receiving Workers' Compensation) and complications (2.8% compared with 4.4%, respectively). At one year after surgery, the proportion of patients who had returned to work was comparable (77.7% in the Workers' Compensation group and 79.4% in the non-Workers' Compensation group); however, the patients receiving Workers' Compensation had significantly more days off before returning to work (a mean of 145.2 compared with 61.9 days; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

After cervical disc arthroplasty, patients receiving Workers' Compensation had outcomes that were similar to those of patients not receiving Workers' Compensation in terms of patient-reported outcomes, surgery-related complications, reoperations, and return-to-work status. Patients receiving Workers' Compensation remained off work for a longer interval than did patients not receiving Workers' Compensation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Myelopathy is associated with increased all-cause morbidity and mortality following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a study of 5256 patients in American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP)

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether myelopathy is associated with increased morbidity and mortality after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) compared with other indications for this procedure.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

ACDF is the most common surgical procedure for the management of a spectrum of cervical spine pathologies. As a more advanced condition, myelopathy is generally thought to be associated with higher morbidity and mortality after this procedure, but there is limited evidence to support this supposition. The current study compares outcomes of ACDF procedures performed for myelopathy with those performed for other indications, controlling for other patient factors.

METHODS

Patients who underwent ACDF between 2010 and 2012 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients with myelopathy were identified by diagnosis codes for cervical myelopathy. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to compare 30-day adverse events and readmission between groups. Multivariate analyses controlled for patient and surgical characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 5256 ACDF procedures met inclusion criteria, of which 1425 (27.3%) were performed for cervical myelopathy. Patients with myelopathy were older and were less healthy than patients without myelopathy. Multivariate analysis controlling for baseline patient characteristics found that patients with myelopathy were at significantly increased risk of any adverse event (odds ratio = 1.5), any severe adverse event (odds ratio = 1.8), and death (odds ratio = 8.9) compared with patients without myelopathy.

CONCLUSION

After adjusting for baseline patient characteristics, not only were any adverse events and serious adverse events more common after ACDF for patients with myelopathy than for patients without myelopathy, but mortality was approximately 9 times more likely. It is important for surgical planning and patient counseling to keep this significant difference in mind for this common procedure that has different morbidities based on the pathology for which it is performed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

The impact of preoperative depression on quality of life outcomes after posterior cervical fusion

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Posterior cervical fusion (PCF) has been shown to be an effective treatment for cervical spondylosis, but is associated with a 9% complication rate and high costs. To limit such complications and costs, it is imperative that proper selection of surgical candidates occur for those most likely to do well with the surgery. Affective disorders, such as depression, are associated with worsened outcomes after lumbar surgery; however, this effect has not been evaluated in patients undergoing cervical spine surgery.

PURPOSE

To assess the predictive value of preoperative depression and the health state on 1-year quality of life (QOL) outcomes after PCF.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort analysis.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Eighty-eight patients who underwent PCF for cervical spondylosis were reviewed.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Preoperative and 1-year postoperative health outcomes were assessed based on the Pain Disability Questionnaire (PDQ), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the EuroQol five-dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire.

METHODS

Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed to assess for preoperative predictors of 1-year change in health status.

RESULTS

Compared with preoperative health states, the PCF cohort showed statistically significant improved PDQ (87.8 vs. 73.6), PHQ-9 (7.7 vs. 6.6), and EQ-5D (0.50 vs. 0.60) scores at 1 year postoperatively. Only 10/88 (11%) patients achieved or surpassed the minimum clinically important difference for the PHQ-9 (5). Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses showed that increasing PHQ-9 and EQ-5D preoperative scores were associated with reduced 1-year postoperative improvement in health status (EQ-5D index).

CONCLUSIONS

Of patients who undergo PCF, those with a greater degree of preoperative depression have lower improvements in postoperative QOL compared with those with less depression. Additionally, patients with better preoperative health states also attain lower 1-year QOL improvements.

Impact of Age and Duration of Symptoms on Surgical Outcome of Single-Level Microscopic Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion in the Patients with Cervical Spondylotic Radiculopathy

We aim to evaluate the impact of age and duration of symptoms on surgical outcome of the patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR) who had been treated by single-level microscopic anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). We retrospectively evaluated 68 patients (48 female and 20 male) with a mean age of 41.2 ± 4.3 (ranged from 24 to 72 years old) in our Orthopedic Department, Imam Reza Hospital. They were followed up for 31.25 ± 4.1 months (ranged from 25 to 65 months). Pain and disability were assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaires in preoperative and last follow-up visits. Functional outcome was eventually evaluated by Odom's criteria. Surgery could significantly improve pain and disability from preoperative 6.2 ± 1.4 and 22.2 ± 6.2 to 3.5 ± 2.0 and 8.7 ± 5.2 (1–21) at the last follow-up visit, respectively. Satisfactory outcomes were observed in 89.7%. Symptom duration of more and less than six months had no effect on surgical outcome, but the results showed a statistically significant difference in NDI improvement in favor of the patients aged more than 45 years (P = 0.032), although pain improvement was similar in the two groups.

Adjacent segment disease after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: clinical outcomes after first repeat surgery versus second repeat surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective clinical study.

OBJECTIVE

To study the long-term effects of repeat cervical fusion after development of adjacent segment disease (ASD).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

ASD is a well-recognized development after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). Although there are data on the development of ASD after ACDF, the incidence of ASD after repeat ACDF has not been well established.

METHODS

We collected 888 consecutive patients who underwent ACDF for cervical degenerative disease during a 20-year period at a single institution. Patients were followed for an average of 94.0 ± 78.1 months after the first ACDF.

RESULTS

Of the 888 patients who underwent ACDF, 108 patients developed ASD, necessitating a second cervical fusion. Among these 108 patients, 27 patients later developed recurrent ASD, requiring a third cervical fusion. Thus, in this series, the incidence of ASD after ACDF is 12.2%, statistically increasing to 25% after a second cervical fusion (P = 0.0002). Notably, ASD occurred 47.0 ± 44.9 months after the first ACDF and statistically decreased to 30.3 ± 24.9 months after a second cervical fusion (P = 0.01). Of the 77 patients who underwent a second cervical fusion via an anterior approach, 23 developed recurrent ASD requiring a third cervical fusion. In contrast, of the 31 patients who had a posteriorly approached second cervical fusion, only 4 developed recurrent ASD requiring a third cervical fusion.

CONCLUSION

We present a cohort of patients undergoing multiple sequential operations due to ASD during a 20-year period. In this series of 888 patients, the incidence of ASD development is lowest after the first ACDF. Patients who undergo a second cervical fusion develop ASD at both higher and faster rates. Moreover, patients who had a second cervical fusion via an anterior approach had a higher chance of developing recurrent ASD versus patients who had a posterior approach.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Anterior cervical decompression and fusion on neck range of motion, pain, and function: a prospective analysis

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Intractable cervical radiculopathy secondary to stenosis or herniated nucleus pulposus is commonly treated with an anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) procedure. However, there is little evidence in the literature that demonstrates the impact such surgery has on long-term range of motion (ROM) outcomes.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to compare cervical ROM and patient-reported outcomes in patients before and after a 1, 2, or 3 level ACDF.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, nonexperimental.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Forty-six patients.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The following were measured preoperatively and also at 3 and 6 months after ACDF: active ROM (full and painfree) in three planes (ie, sagittal, coronal, and horizontal), pain visual analog scale, Neck Disability Index, and headache frequency.

METHODS

Patients undergoing an ACDF for cervical radiculopathy had their cervical ROM measured preoperatively and also at 3 and 6 months after the procedure. Neck Disability Index and pain visual analog scale values were also recorded at the same time.

RESULTS

Both painfree and full active ROM did not change significantly from the preoperative measurement to the 3-month postoperative measurement (ps>.05); however, painfree and full active ROM did increase significantly in all three planes of motion from the preoperative measurement to the 6-month postoperative measurement regardless of the number of levels fused (ps≤.023). Visual analog scale, Neck Disability Index, and headache frequency all improved significantly over time (ps≤.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that patients who have had an ACDF for cervical radiculopathy will experience improved ROM 6 months postoperatively. In addition, patients can expect a decrease in pain, an improvement in neck function, and a decrease in headache frequency.

Outpatient anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for cervical disk disease: a prospective consecutive series of 96 patients

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate surgical complications and clinical outcome in a consecutive series of 96 patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for cervical disk degeneration (CDD) in an outpatient setting.

METHODS

Pre-, per-, and postoperative data on patients undergoing single- or two-level outpatient ACDF at the private Oslofjord Clinic were prospectively collected.

RESULTS

This study includes 96 consecutive patients with a mean age of 49.1 years. 36/96 had a two-level ACDF. Mean postoperative observation time before discharge was 350 min, and 95/96 were successfully discharged either to their home or to a hotel on the day of surgery. The surgical mortality was 0%, while the surgical morbidity rate was 5.2%. Two (2.1%) patients developed postoperative hematoma, 2 (2.1%) patients experienced postoperative dysphagia, and 1 (1%) experienced deterioration of neurological function. Radicular pain, neck pain, and headache decreased significantly after surgery. 91% of patients were satisfied with the surgery, according to the NASSQ.

CONCLUSION

ACDF in carefully selected patients with CDD appears to be safe in the outpatient setting, provided a sufficient postoperative observation period. The clinical outcome and patient satisfaction of outpatients are comparable to that of inpatients.

Prevalence and risk factors of nocturia and nocturia-related quality of life in the Chinese population

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prevalence, risk factors of nocturia and nocturia-related quality of life.

METHODS

Age, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), alcohol abuse and smoking were analyzed using logistic analysis. Multiple linear-regression analysis was used to identify factors predicting the score on the Nocturia Quality of Life (N-QOL) questionnaire.

RESULTS

1,198 adults completed this study. 411 individuals (34.3%) answered that they arose for urination at least twice during the night. The incidence of nocturia increased with age from 8.6% in individuals younger than 40 to 67.7% in those older than 70. Hypertension [odds ratio (OR) 2.322; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.387-3.887] and diabetes (OR 2.298; 95% CI: 1.066-4.954) were possible risk factors for nocturia. In male individuals, BPH (OR 3.900; 95% CI: 1.890-8.049) was another risk factor. Gender was not found to be associated with nocturia. Increasing episodes of nocturia (regression coefficient: -2.564; 95% CI: -3.08 to -2.049) and decreasing total sleeping hours (regression coefficient: 1.738; 95% CI: 0.948-2.527) were independent factors predicting a significantly lower N-QOL score.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertension, diabetes and BPH are associated with nocturia, suggesting that multiple approaches are needed when treating patients with nocturia. Nocturia has a significant impact on the nocturia-related quality of life when the patient has 2 or more episodes per night.

Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion in patients with cervical disc degeneration: a prospective outcome study of 258 patients (181 fused with autologous bone graft and 77 fused with a PEEK cage)

Background

Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion (ACDF) is challenging with respect to both patient selection and choice of surgical procedure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of ACDF, with respect to both patient selection and choice of surgical procedure: fusion with an autologous iliac crest graft (AICG) versus fusion with an artificial cage made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

Methods

This was a non-randomized prospective single-center outcome study of 258 patients who underwent ACDF for cervical disc degeneration (CDD). Fusion was attained with either tricortical AICG or PEEK cages without additional anterior plating, with treatment selected at surgeon's discretion. Radicular pain, neck-pain, headache and patient satisfaction with the treatment were scored using the visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

The median age was 47.5 (28.3-82.8) years, and 44% of patients were female. 59% had single-level ACDF, 40% had two level ACDF and 1% had three-level ACDF. Of the patients, 181 were fused with AICG and 77 with a PEEK-cage. After surgery, the patients showed a significant reduction in radicular pain (ΔVAS = 3.05), neck pain (ΔVAS = 2.30) and headache (ΔVAS = 0.55). Six months after surgery, 48% of patients had returned to work: however 24% were still receiving workers' compensation.

Using univariate and multivariate analyses we found that high preoperative pain intensity was significantly associated with a decrease in pain intensity after surgery, for all three pain categories. There were no significant correlations between pain relief and the following patient characteristics: fusion method (AICG or PEEK-cage), sex, age, number of levels fused, disc level fused, previous neck surgery (except for neck pain), previous neck trauma, or preoperative symptom duration. Two hundred out of the 256 (78%) patients evaluated the surgical result as successful. Only 27/256 (11%) classified the surgical result as a failure. Patient satisfaction was significantly associated with pain relief after surgery.

Conclusions

ACDF is an effective treatment for radicular pain in selected patients with CDD after six months follow up.

Because of similar clinical outcomes and lack of donor site morbidity when using PEEK, we now prefer fusion with PEEK cage to AICG.

Lengthy symptom duration was not a negative prognostic marker in our patient population.

The number of patients who returned to work 6 months after surgery was lower than expected.

Predictors of outcome after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a multivariate analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

Perform a multivariate analysis to identify important predictors of poor outcome following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Identifying prognostic factors is important to aid surgical decision-making and counseling of patients. Recent randomized control trials of disc arthroplasty devices have established a large cohort of patients treated with fusion and 2-year outcomes that allow analysis of prognostic factors.

METHODS

The patient cohort was the fusion control patients (n = 488) from 2 randomized controlled studies of disc replacements. Surgical indications were recalcitrant single-level subaxial radiculopathy or myelopathy. The surgery included anterior discectomy and fusion with allograft and plate. Patients were assessed by neck and arm pain, neck disability index (NDI), SF-36, neurologic examination, and return to work. Overall clinical success was defined based on meeting all 4 of these criteria: >15-point improvement in NDI; maintained or improved neurologic examination; no serious adverse event related to the procedure; and no revision of the plate or graft. Patient's outcomes were recorded, at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, with 77% follow-up at 24 months.The outcome variables for this analysis were overall clinical success and >15-point improvement in NDI. We studied the relationship between each of the outcome variables and 26 potential important variables including demographics, medical conditions, socioeconomic factors, and disease state. Two statistical models were used to explore the association between outcome variables and baseline measures: multivariate logistical regression of the full model with every prognostic variable included and the model with the variables selected by the stepwise selection procedure.

RESULTS

In the full-model logistic analysis for overall success, worker's compensation and weak narcotic use were negative predictors while higher preoperative NDI score and normal sensory function were positive predictors. For NDI success, only the preoperative NDI scores (higher disability predictive of improvement) appeared to have strong influence on the outcome.In the stepwise regression model, preoperative normal sensory function was a positive predictor and worker's compensation a negative predictors of overall clinical success. Greater age, higher preoperative NDI score, and gainful employment were positive predictors and spinal litigation was a negative predictor of NDI success.

CONCLUSION

We found that important predictors of outcome were work status, sensory function, involvement in litigation, and higher disability scores.

Single level cervical disc herniation: A questionnaire based study on current surgical practices

BACKGROUND

Operative procedures like simple discectomy, with or without fusion and with or without instrumentation, for single level cervical disc herniation causing neck pain or neurological compromise have been described and are largely successful. However, there is a debate on definitive criteria to perform fusion (with or without instrumentation) for single level cervical disc herniation. Hence, we conducted a questionnaire based study to elicit the opinions of practicing neurosurgeons.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

About 148 neurosurgeons with atleast 12 years of operative experience on single level cervical disc herniation, utilizing the anterior approach, were enrolled in our study. All participating neurosurgeons were asked to complete a practice based questionnaire. The responses of 120 neurosurgeons were analysed.

RESULTS

The mean age of enrolled surgeons was 51 yrs (range 45-73) with mean surgical experience of 16.9 yrs (range 12-40 yrs) on single level cervical disc herniation. Out of 120 surgeons 10(8%) had 15-25 years experience and always preferred fusion with or without instrumentation and six (five per cent with 17-27 yrs experience had never used fusion techniques. However, 104 (87%) surgeons with 12-40 yrs experience had their own criteria based on their experiences for performing fusion with graft and instrumentation (FGI), while. 85 (75%) preferred auto graft with cage.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of surgeons performed FGI before the age of 40, but for others, patient criteria such as job (heavier job), physical examination (especially myelopathy) and imaging findings (mild degenerative changes on X-ray and signal change in the spinal cord on MRI) were considered significant for performing FGI.

Diagnosing cervical fusion: a comprehensive literature review

Study Design

Comprehensive literature review.

Purpose

To document the criteria for fusion utilized in these studies to determine if a consensus on the definition of a solid fusion exists.

Overview of Literature

Numerous studies have reported on fusion rates following anterior cervical arthrodesis. There is a wide discrepancy in the fusion rates in these studies. While factors such as graft type, Instrumentation, and technique play a factor in fusion rate, another reason for the difference may be a result of differences in the definition of fusion following anterior cervical spine surgery.

Methods

A comprehensive English Medline literature review from 1966 to 2004 using the key words "anterior," "cervical," and "fusion" was performed. We divided these into two groups: newer studies done between 2000 and 2004, and earlier studies done between 1966 and 2000. These articles were then analyzed for the number of patients, follow-up period, graft type, and levels fused. Moreover, all of the articles were examined for their definition of fusion along with their fusion rate.

Results

In the earlier studies from 1966 to 2000, there was no consensus for what constituted a solid fusion. Only fifteen percent of these studies employed the most stringent definition of a solid fusion which was the presence of bridging bone and the absence of motion on flexion and extension radiographs. On the other hand, the later studies (2000 to 2004) used such a definition a majority (63%) of the time, suggesting that a consensus opinion for the definition of fusion is beginning to form.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that over the past several years, a consensus definition of fusion is beginning to form. However, a large percentage of studies are still being published without using stringent fusion criteria. To that end, we recommend that all studies reporting on fusion rates use the most stringent criteria for solid fusion following anterior cervical spine surgery: the absence of motion on flexion/extension views and presence of bridging trabeculae on lateral x-rays. We believe that a universal adoption of such uniform criteria will help to standardize such studies and make it more possible to compare one study with another.

CERVICAL DISC ARTHROPLASTY COMPARED WITH FUSION IN A WORKERS' COMPENSATION POPULATION

OBJECTIVE

Patients with cervical radiculopathy and/or myelopathy are often treated with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. Cervical arthroplasty has recently been advocated as an alternative treatment. Theoretically, arthroplasty should permit early return to activity and protect against adjacent segment disease. Early mobilization and return to activity may, theoretically, reduce cost to the workers' compensation program.

METHODS

A subgroup analysis of workers' compensation patients from the randomized controlled trials comparing Prestige ST and Bryan (Medtronic Sofamor Danek, Memphis, TN) cervical arthroplasty to fusion was performed. Primary outcome measures were work status, time to return to work, and neck disability. Secondary outcome measures were neck and arm pain and Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey score.

RESULTS

One thousand four patients were enrolled in the studies, 93 of whom were workers' compensation patients. At 6 weeks and 3 months, significantly more patients in the arthroplasty group were working compared with the fusion group. At 6 months and later, there was no significant difference in return-to-work rates. Overall, patients returned to work at a median of 101 days after arthroplasty, compared with 222 days after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. This difference was not significant when controlling for sex, study, and preoperative work status. At all time points, the Neck Disability Index was consistently lower in the arthroplasty group compared with the fusion group; however, the difference was not significant at 24 months. There was no statistically significant difference in secondary outcomes, neurological events, or pain-related events.

CONCLUSION

In this workers' compensation cohort, it was observed that a greater number of patients in the arthroplasty group returned to work at 6 weeks and 3 months after surgery. A trend toward an earlier return to work was also seen, although this was not statistically significant when controlling for differences in the studies.

Prospective nonrandomized comparison of an allograft with bone morphogenic protein versus an iliac-crest autograft in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) using autogenous iliac bone graft may lead to donor-site morbidity. This has led some surgeons to use alternatives to iliac bone graft, but often the alternatives have greater rates of nonunion and delayed union. Bone morphogenic protein (BMP) studies have found high arthrodesis rates in lumbar fusions.

PURPOSE

The objective of this pilot study was to compare the success of BMP combined with bone allograft with iliac bone autograft in ACDF patients.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

The institutional review board approved a prospective but nonrandomized study of 66 consecutive patients who had primary one- to three-level ACDF with either iliac-crest bone autograft or BMP allograft (0.9 mg BMP per level) followed prospectively over a 2- to 3-year period.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Consecutive patients who had primary one- to three-level ACDF with either iliac-crest bone autograft (n=36) or BMP-allograft (n=30). Patients in both iliac bone graft and BMP-allograft groups had comparable preoperative pain and disability.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Visual analog scale pain, pain drawing, Oswestry index, pain medication use, opinion of treatment success, and neurological recovery.

RESULTS

Given the nonrandomized nature of the study, the study groups were not matched. Within this limitation, both groups of patients had similar improvement in all outcome scales (visual analog scale pain, pain drawing, Oswestry index, pain medication use, and opinion of treatment success) and neurological recovery over the 2- to 3-year follow-up period. Patients in the iliac bone graft group had two pseudarthroses and two complications of the iliac-crest donor site. In the BMP-allograft group, one patient had a pseudarthrosis, but 50% had neck swelling presenting as dysphagia, which was substantially more common than the 14% present in the iliac bone graft group. Patients in the BMP-allograft group had slightly shorter surgery time, but implant and hospitalization costs were higher.

CONCLUSIONS

ACDF performed with BMP (0.9 mg BMP per level) allograft is as effective as iliac bone graft in terms of patient outcomes and fusion rates. Safety concerns related to neck swelling and higher initial costs were associated with patients in the bone morphogenic protein group.

Radiographic and clinical outcomes following single-level anterior cervical discectomy and allograft fusion without plate placement or cervical collar

Object

Although the clinical outcomes following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery are generally good, 2 major complications are graft migration and nonunion. These complications have led some to advocate rigid internal fixation and/or cervical immobilization postoperatively. This paper examines a single-surgeon experience with single-level ACDF without use of plates or hard collars in patients with degenerative spondylosis in whom allograft was used as the fusion material.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective review of a prospective database of (Cloward-type) ACDF operations performed by the senior author (J.A.J.) between July 1996 and June 2005. Radiographic follow-up included static and flexion/extension radiographs obtained to assess fusion, focal and segmental kyphosis, and change in disc space height. At most recent follow-up, the patients' condition was evaluated by an independent physician examiner. The Odom criteria and Neck Disability Index (NDI) were used to assess outcome.

Results

One hundred seventy patients underwent single-level ACDF for degenerative pathology during the study period. Their most common presenting symptoms were pain, weakness, and radiculopathy; 88% of patients noted ≥ 2 neurological complaints. The mean hospital stay was 1.76 days (range 0–36 days), and 3 patients (2%) had major immediate postoperative complications requiring reoperation. The mean duration of follow-up was 22 months (range 12–124 months). Radiographic evidence of fusion was present in 160 patients (94%). Seven patients (4%) showed radiographic evidence of pseudarthrosis, and graft migration was seen in 3 patients (2%). All patients had increases in focal kyphosis at the operated level on postoperative radiographs (mean −7.4°), although segmental alignment was preserved in 133 patients (78%). Mean change in disc space height was 36.5% (range 28–53%). At most recent clinical follow-up, 122 patients (72%) had no complaints referable to cervical disease and were able to carry out their activities of daily living without impairment. The mean postoperative NDI score was 3.2 (median 3, range 0–31).

Conclusions

Single-level ACDF without intraoperative plate placement or the use of a postoperative collar is an effective treatment for cervical spondylosis. Although there is evidence of focal kyphosis and loss of disc space height, radiographic evidence of fusion is comparable to that attained with plate fixation, and the rate of clinical improvement is high.

The safety of instrumented outpatient anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Reported hospitalization times after an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedure range between 20 hours to 4 days. Reasons for this wide variation are manifold, but the safety of an instrumented ACDF in the setting of a hostile medical-legal climate is most likely the primary concern influencing such a discrepancy.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of performing single, two- and three-level ACDF with instrumentation on an outpatient or 23-hour observation period basis in order to potentially diminish the additional cost of hardware without compromising the purported benefits of surgery.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing instrumented ACDF on an outpatient basis was performed.

PATIENT SAMPLE

A total of 103 patients with neck pain and/or radiculopathy undergoing ACDF were enrolled into this study.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Included the evaluation of intraoperative and perioperative complications, which were reported for a total of 6 months after surgery. Clinical examination and radiographical assessment, including plain radiographs and computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (when required), were performed to assess complications.

METHODS

Complications were divided into two groups: major and minor. Major complications included vertebral fracture and dehydration resulting in readmission. Minor complications included allergic reactions to medications that did not require hospitalization, and transient (< or = 3 months) neurologic deficit. A comprehensive literature search and meta-analysis was performed to generate a large comparison group in order to compare the complication rates in our outpatient series to those reported in the literature.

RESULTS

A total of 99 patients (96.1%) undergoing single and two-level ACDF were discharged less than 15 hours after their surgeries (median time: 8 hours; range: 2-15 hours), and 4 patients (3.9%) were discharged after a 23-hour observation period following three-level ACDF. The overall complication rate in our outpatient series was 3.8% (n=4), including 1.9% (n=2) major and 1.9% (n=2) minor complications. The overall complication rate in the 633 patient meta-analysis derived comparison group was 0.95% (n=6). The difference between overall complication rates was not found to be significantly different (p = .12). The hardware-related complication rate in the meta-analysis comparison group was 0.5% (n=3), and was not found to be significantly different from our rate of 0% (p < or = 1).

CONCLUSION

Performing ACDF with instrumentation on an outpatient basis is feasible, and it is not associated with higher overall or hardware-related complication rates as compared with complication rates reported in the literature, suggesting that this procedure is safe to perform on an outpatient basis.

Payer type has little effect on operative rate and surgeons' work intensity

Does health-care payer type affect the rate of operative treatment and surgeons' work intensity for patients with orthopaedic conditions? We analyzed the clinical and financial data collected during 6 consecutive years (1999-2004) for a group practice of 40 orthopaedic surgeons. We examined the rate of operative treatment and surgeons' work intensity (total physician's work Resource-based Relative Value System units) by diagnosis, patient age, and payer type. The eight payer types were: capitation health maintenance organization, health maintenance organization, preferred provider organization, indemnity, self-pay, Workers' Compensation, Medicaid, and Medicare. There were 230,306 patients with 526 unique primary diagnoses. Diagnosis accounted for most of the variability in operative rates and surgeons' work intensity. After adjusting for differences attributable to diagnosis, payer type had little effect on the rate of operative treatment and surgeons' work intensity.

Cost-utility analysis of routine neurosurgical spinal surgery

OBJECT

Cost-utility analysis is currently the preferred method with which to compare the cost-effectiveness of various interventions. The authors conducted a study to establish the cost-utility results of routine neurosurgery-based spinal interventions by examining patient-derived values.

METHODS

Two hundred seventy patients undergoing surgery for cervical or lumbar radicular pain filled in the 15-dimensional health-related quality of life (HRQOL) questionnaire before and 3 months after surgery. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were calculated using the utility data and the expected remaining life years of the patients. The mean HRQOL score (scale, 0-1) increased after cervical surgery (169 patients, mean age 52 years, 40% women) from 0.81 +/- 0.11 preoperatively, to 0.85 +/- 0.11 at 3 months, and after lumbar surgery (101 patients, mean age 54 years, 59% women) from 0.79 +/- 0.10 preoperatively, to 0.85 +/- 0.12 at 3 months (p < 0.001). Of the 15 dimensions of health, improvement in the following was documented in both groups: sleeping, usual activities, discomfort and symptoms, depression, distress, vitality, and sexual activity (p < 0.05). The cost per QALY gained was Euro 2774 and 1738 for cervical and lumbar operations, respectively. In cases in which surgery was delayed the cost per QALY was doubled.

CONCLUSIONS

Spinal surgery led to a statistically significant and clinically important improvement in HRQOL. The cost per QALY gained was reasonable, less than half of that observed, for example, for hip replacement surgery or angioplasty treatment of coronary artery disease; however, a prolonged delay in surgical intervention led to an approximate doubling of the cost per QALY gained by the treatment.

Lumbar disc disorders and low-back pain: socioeconomic factors and consequences

Socioeconomic factors are important risk factors for lumbar pain and disability. The total costs of low-back pain in the United States exceed $100 billion per year. Two-thirds of these costs are indirect, due to lost wages and reduced productivity. Each year, the fewer than 5% of the patients who have an episode of low-back pain account for 75% of the total costs. Because indirect costs rely heavily on changes in work status, total costs are difficult to calculate for many women and students as well as elderly and disabled patients. These methodologic challenges notwithstanding, the toll of lumbar disc disorders is enormous, underscoring the critical importance of identifying strategies to prevent these disorders and their consequences.

Long-term randomised comparison between a carbon fibre cage and the Cloward procedure in the cervical spine

A prospective randomised study. To compare the long-term outcome of anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) with a cervical intervertebral fusion cage (CIFC) and the Cloward procedure (CP). We have previously shown that the 2 year outcome of ACDF with the CIFC is the same as for the CP. The fusion rate in CIFC group was, however, only 55%, compared to 85% in CP group. The long-term outcome of CIFC is poorly documented. Ninety-five patients with at least 6 months duration of neck pain and radicular arm pain were randomly allocated for ACDF with the CIFC or the CP. Radiographs were obtained at 2 years. Questionnaires about pain, disability (Neck Disability Index, NDI), distress, quality of life and global outcome were obtained from 83 patients (87%) (43 CIFC, 40 CP) at a mean follow-up time of 6 years (range 56-94 months). There were no significant differences in any outcome variable between the two treatments. For both CP and CIFC the pain intensity improved (P<0.0001) whereas the NDI was unchanged at long-term follow-up compared to preoperatively. In the CIFC group patients with a healed fusion had significantly less mean pain (24 mm) and NDI (26%) than patients with pseudarthrosis (42 and 41, respectively). Furthermore, the mean pain and NDI reported by CIFC patients with a healed fusion was significantly less than in healed CP patients (37 and 38, respectively). The long-term outcome is the same for the CIFC and the CP, with similar improvements of pain but with considerable remaining functional disability. However, in the subgroup of patients with healed CIFC the outcome was clearly better than for the non-healed CIFC group, and also clearly better than for the healed CP group. Thus, if the healing problem associated with the CIFC can be solved the results indicate that a better outcome can be expected with the cage than with the CP.

A prospective randomized comparison of rectangular titanium cage fusion and iliac crest autograft fusion in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy

Object

The authors compare clinical outcome and fusion rates after iliac crest autograft (ICAG)– and rectangular titanium cage (RTC)–augmented fusion in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy (ACD).

Methods

One hundred consecutive patients with 127 levels of cervical disc disease refractory to conservative treatment were randomized into one of the two treatment groups (ICAG/RTC fusion). The visual analog scale was used by the patient to rate overall pain and head, neck, arm, and donor site pain separately. Myelopathy was documented according to Japanese Orthopaedic Association and Nurick grading systems. Outcome was analyzed using Odom criteria, the 36-Item Short Form (SF-36), and Patient Satisfaction Index scales. Fusion rates were assessed on standard and flexion–extension radiographs. Follow-up data of at least 12 months' duration were available for 95 patients.

More residual overall pain after 12 months was documented in patients who underwent ICAG fusion (3.3 ± 2.5 [ICAG] and 2.2 ± 2.4 [RTC]; p < 0.05). Although arm and head pain were minimal in both groups, neck pain proved to be the predominant symptom (2.7 ± 2.5 [ICAG] and 1.9 ± 2.1 [RTC]), which resolved in only 67 and 48% of RTC-and ICAG-treated patients, respectively (p < 0.05). Myelopathy improved comparably in both groups. Regardless of increased pain in ICAG-treated patients, PSI and SF-36 scores were not significantly different between groups (only four [8%] of 47 ICAG-treated patients and five [10%] of 48 RTC-treated patients were unsatisfied). Good to excellent functional recovery according to Odom criteria was observed in 75 and 79% of ICAG- and RTC-treated patients, respectively. Fusion rates were 81 and 74%, respectively (p = 0.51).

Conclusions

Fusion rates and clinical outcome at 12 months after ACD were comparable between patients who underwent ICAG and RTC fusion. The use of rectangular cages, however, avoids donor site morbidity and reduces overall pain and, thus, seems to be an advantageous treatment alternative.

Is autograft the gold standard in achieving radiographic fusion in one-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with rigid anterior plate fixation?

STUDY DESIGN

A review of 66 consecutive patients at a single institution who underwent one-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with rigid anterior plate fixation with allograft or autograft.

OBJECTIVES

To address the efficacy of allograft to autograft with primary respect to fusion rate and secondary attention to risk factors and clinical outcome in patients undergoing one-level ACDF with rigid anterior plate fixation.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Although autograft is considered the gold standard in achieving optimal fusion, when compared with allograft in noninstrumented one-level ACDF and in plated and nonplated multilevel ACDF, the efficacy of allograft to autograft in one-level ACDF with rigid anterior plate fixation is not thoroughly understood.

METHODS

Sixty-six consecutive patients (mean age, 45 years) at a single institution who underwent one-level ACDF with rigid anterior plate fixation with allograft (n = 35) or autograft (n = 31) were reviewed for radiographic fusion (mean, 12 months), risk factors, and clinical outcome (mean, 17 months). Smokers entailed 33.3% of the patients, and 45.5% of all patients presented with a work-related injury. An independent blinded observer reviewed at last follow-up lateral neutral and flexion/extension plain radiographs for radiographic fusion and instrumentation integrity. Clinical outcome was assessed on last follow-up and rated according to the Odom criteria. The threshold for statistical significance was established at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Solid fusion was achieved in 63 patients (95.5%). Fusion was noted in 100% of the allograft patients, whereas 90.3% of the autograft cases achieved fusion. No statistically significant difference was noted between allograft to autograft with regard to fusion rate (P > 0.05). Three patients developed nonunions (1 smoker; 2 nonsmokers) and entailed Orion instrumentation. In the one patient who was a nonsmoker with a nonunion, slight screw penetration into the involved and uninvolved interbody spaces was noted. No other intraoperative, postoperative, or radiographic complication was noted. All of the nonunions occurred early in the series. Postoperatively, excellent results were reported in 19.7%, good results in 71.2%, and fair results in 9.1% of the patients. Satisfactory clinical outcome was noted in all nonunion patients. A nonstatistically significant difference was noted with regard to clinical outcome of fused and nonfused patients, demographics, and the presence of a work-related injury (P > 0.05). The impact of smoking was not a factor influencing fusion or clinical outcome in this series (P > 0.05). A statistically significant difference was noted in plate-type on fusion rate (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A 100% and 90.3% radiographic fusion rate was obtained for allograft and autograft in one-level ACDF procedures with rigid anterior plate fixation, respectively. Although autograft achieved a higher incidence of nonunion than allograft, this may be attributed to the use of autograft early in the experience of plate application and fixation in this series. The effects of smoking were not found to be a significant factor influencing fusion in these plated patients. In 90.9% of the patients, excellent and good clinical outcome results were reported. The use of allograft in one-level ACDF with rigid plate fixation yields similar and high fusion rates as autograft. The use of allograft bone eliminates complications and pitfalls associated with autologous donor site harvesting. However, the use of autograft is a viable alternative to avoid the risk of infection, disease transmission, and histocompatibility differences associated with allograft. The use of allograft or autograft bone in properly selected patients for one-level ACDF with rigid anterior plate fixation can result in high fusion rates with excellent and good clinical outcomes.