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Couch BK, Patel SS, Talentino SE, Buldo-Licciardi M, Evashwick-Rogler TW, Oyekan AA, Gannon EJ, Shaw JD, Donaldson WF, Lee JY. To Cross the Cervicothoracic Junction? Terminating Posterior Cervical Fusion Constructs Proximal to the Cervicothoracic Junction Does Not Impart Increased Risk of Reoperation in Patients With Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. Global Spine J 2023; 13:2379-2386. [PMID: 35285337 PMCID: PMC10538346 DOI: 10.1177/21925682221083926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of caudal instrumentation level on revision rates following posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion. METHODS A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was performed. Minimum follow-up was one year. Patients were divided into two groups based on the caudal level of their index fusion construct (Group 1-cervical and Group 2- thoracic). Reoperation rates were compared between the two groups, and preoperative demographics and radiographic parameters were compared between patients who required revision and those who did not. Multivariate binomial regression analysis was performed to determine independent risk factors for revision surgery. RESULTS One hundred thirty-seven (137/204) patients received fusion constructs that terminated at C7 (Group 1), while 67 (67/204) received fusion constructs that terminated at T1 or T2 (Group 2). The revision rate was 8.33% in the combined cohort, 7.3% in Group 1, and 10.4% in Group 2. There was no significant difference in revision rates between the 2 groups (P = .43). Multivariate regression analysis did not identify any independent risk factors for revision surgery. CONCLUSION This study shows no evidence of increased risk of revision in patients with fusion constructs terminating in the cervical spine when compared to patients with constructs crossing the cervicothoracic junction. These findings support terminating the fusion construct proximal to the cervicothoracic junction when indicated. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon K. Couch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stuti S. Patel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Anthony A. Oyekan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Emmett J. Gannon
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeremy D. Shaw
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - William F. Donaldson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joon Y. Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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2
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Kim MS, Gilbert ZD, Bajouri Z, Telang S, Fresquez Z, Pickering TA, Son SM, Alluri RK, Wang JC, Buser Z. What does degeneration at the cervicothoracic junction tell us? A kinematic MRI study of 93 individuals. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2023; 32:2425-2430. [PMID: 37148392 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-07743-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Current decision-making in multilevel cervical fusion weighs the potential to protect adjacent levels and reduce reoperation risk by crossing the cervicothoracic junction (C7/T1) against increased operative time and risk of complication. Careful planning is required, and the planned distal and adjacent levels should be assessed for degenerative disc disease (DDD). This study assessed whether DDD at the cervicothoracic junction was associated with DDD, disc height, translational motion, or angular variation in the adjacent superior (C6/C7) or inferior (T1/T2) levels. METHODS This study retrospectively analyzed 93 cases with kinematic MRI. Cases were randomly selected from a database with inclusion criteria being no prior spine surgery and images having sufficient quality for analysis. DDD was assessed using Pfirrmann classification. Vertebral body bone marrow lesions were assessed using Modic changes. Disc height was measured at the mid-disc in neutral and extension. Translational motion and angular variation were calculated by assessing translational or angular motion segment integrity respectively in flexion and extension. Statistical associations were assessed with scatterplots and Kendall's tau. RESULTS DDD at C7/T1 was positively associated with DDD at C6/C7 (tau = 0.53, p < 0.01) and T1/T2 (tau = 0.58, p < 0.01), with greater disc height in neutral position at T1/T2 (tau = 0.22, p < 0.01), and with greater disc height in extended position at C7/T1 (tau = 0.17, p = 0.04) and at T1/T2 (tau = 0.21, p < 0.01). DDD at C7/T1 was negatively associated with angular variation at C6/C7 (tau = - 0.23, p < 0.01). No association was appreciated between DDD at C7/T1 and translational motion. CONCLUSION The association of DDD at the cervicothoracic junction with DDD at the adjacent levels emphasizes the necessity for careful selection of the distal level in multilevel fusion in the distal cervical spine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Zachary D Gilbert
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zabi Bajouri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sagar Telang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zoe Fresquez
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Trevor A Pickering
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Seung Min Son
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, South Korea
| | - R Kiran Alluri
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jeffrey C Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zorica Buser
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York City, NY, USA
- Gerling Institute, New York City, NY, USA
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3
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Yang H, Huang J, Hai Y, Fan Z, Zhang Y, Yin P, Yang J. Is It Necessary to Cross the Cervicothoracic Junction in Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion for Multilevel Degenerative Cervical Spine Disease? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082806. [PMID: 37109143 PMCID: PMC10144726 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCF) is a common procedure for treating patients with multilevel degenerative cervical spine disease. The selection of lower instrumented vertebra (LIV) relative to the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ) remains controversial. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of PCF construct terminating at the lower cervical spine and crossing the CTJ. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was performed for relevant studies in the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library database. Complications, rate of reoperation, surgical data, patient-reported outcomes (PROs), and radiographic outcomes were compared between PCF construct terminating at or above C7 (cervical group) and at or below T1 (thoracic group) in patients with multilevel degenerative cervical spine disease. A subgroup analysis based on surgical techniques and indications was performed. RESULTS Fifteen retrospective cohort studies comprising 2071 patients (1163 in the cervical group and 908 in the thoracic group) were included. The cervical group was associated with a lower incidence of wound-related complications (RR, 0.58; 95% CI 0.36 to 0.92, p = 0.022; 831 patients in cervical group vs. 692 patients in thoracic group), a lower reoperation rate for wound-related complications (RR, 0.55; 95% CI 0.32 to 0.96, p = 0.034; 768 vs. 624 patients), and less neck pain at the final follow-up (WMD, -0.58; 95% CI -0.93 to -0.23, p = 0.001; 327 vs. 268 patients). However the cervical group also developed a higher incidence of overall adjacent segment disease (ASD, including distal ASD and proximal ASD) (RR, 1.87; 95% CI 1.27 to 2.76, p = 0.001; 1079 vs. 860 patients), distal ASD (RR, 2.18; 95% CI 1.36 to 3.51, p = 0.001; 642 vs. 555 patients), overall hardware failure (including hardware failure of LIV and hardware failure occurring at other instrumented vertebra) (RR, 1.48; 95% CI 1.02 to 2.15, p = 0.040; 614 vs. 451 patients), and hardware failure of LIV (RR, 1.89; 95% CI 1.21 to 2.95, p = 0.005; 380 vs. 339 patients). The operating time was reasonably shorter (WMD, -43.47; 95% CI -59.42 to -27.52, p < 0.001; 611 vs. 570 patients) and the estimated blood loss was lower (WMD, -143.77; 95% CI -185.90 to -101.63, p < 0.001; 721 vs. 740 patients) when the PCF construct did not cross the CTJ. CONCLUSIONS PCF construct crossing the CTJ was associated with a lower incidence of ASD and hardware failure but a higher incidence of wound-related complications and a small increase in qualitative neck pain, without difference in neck disability on the NDI. Based on the subgroup analysis for surgical techniques and indications, prophylactic crossing of the CTJ should be considered for patients with concurrent instability, ossification, deformity, or a combination of anterior approach surgeries as well. However, long-term follow-up outcomes and patient selection-related factors such as bone quality, frailty, and nutrition status should be addressed in further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghao Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Gongti South Rd, No. 8, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jixuan Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Gongti South Rd, No. 8, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yong Hai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Gongti South Rd, No. 8, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Zhexuan Fan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Gongti South Rd, No. 8, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yiqi Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Gongti South Rd, No. 8, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Peng Yin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Gongti South Rd, No. 8, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jincai Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Gongti South Rd, No. 8, Beijing 100020, China
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Algarni N, Dea N, Evaniew N, McIntosh G, Jacobs BW, Paquet J, Wilson JR, Hall H, Bailey CS, Weber MH, Nataraj A, Attabib N, Rampersaud YR, Cadotte DW, Stratton A, Christie SD, Fisher CG, Charest-Morin R. Does Ending a Posterior Construct Proximally at C2 Versus C3 Impact Patient Reported Outcomes in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy Patients up to 24 months After the Surgery? Global Spine J 2023:21925682231166605. [PMID: 36960878 DOI: 10.1177/21925682231166605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of the upper instrumented level (UIV) being at C2 vs C3 in posterior cervical construct on patient reported outcomes (PROs) up to 24 months after surgery for cervical degenerative myelopathy (DCM). Secondary objectives were to compare operative time, intra-operative blood loss (IOBL), length of stay (LOS), adverse events (AEs) and re-operation. METHODOLOGY Patients who underwent a posterior cervical instrumented fusion (3 and + levels) with a C2 or C3 UIV, with 24 months follow-up were analyzed. PROs (NDI, EQ5D, SF-12 PCS/MCS, NRS arm/neck pain) were compared using ANCOVA. Operative duration, IOBL, AEs, and re-operation were compared. Subgroup analysis was performed on patient presenting with pre-operative malalignment (cervical sagittal vertical axis ≥40 mm and/or T1slope- cervical lordosis >15°). RESULTS 173 patients were included, of which 41 (24%) had a C2 UIV and 132 (76%) a C3 UIV. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups for the changes in PROs up to 24 months. Subgroup analysis of patients with pre-operative malalignment showed a trend towards greater improvement in the NDI at 12 months with a C2 UIV (P = .054). Operative time, IOBL and peri-operative AEs were more in C2 group (P < .05). There was no significant difference in LOS and re-operation (P > .05). CONCLUSION In this observational study, up to 24 months after surgery for posterior cervical fusion in DCM greater than 3 levels, PROs appear to evolve similarly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nizar Algarni
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nicolas Dea
- Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, Canada
| | - Nathan Evaniew
- Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Greg McIntosh
- Canadian Spine Outcomes and Research Network, Markdale, ON, Canada
| | - Bradley W Jacobs
- Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jérome Paquet
- Centre de Recherche CHU de Quebec, CHU de Quebec-Universite Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jefferson R Wilson
- Divisions of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamilton Hall
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher S Bailey
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, London Health Science Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michael H Weber
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, McGill UniversityHealth Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Andrew Nataraj
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of AlbertaHospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Najmedden Attabib
- Canada East Spine Centre, Division of Neurosurgery, Horizon Health Network, Saint John, NB, Canada
| | | | - David W Cadotte
- Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Alexandra Stratton
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sean D Christie
- Division of Neurosurgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Charles G Fisher
- Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, Canada
| | - Raphaële Charest-Morin
- Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, Canada
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5
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Chan AK, Shaffrey CI, Gottfried ON, Park C, Than KD, Bisson EF, Bydon M, Asher AL, Coric D, Potts EA, Foley KT, Wang MY, Fu KM, Virk MS, Knightly JJ, Meyer S, Park P, Upadhyaya C, Shaffrey ME, Buchholz AL, Tumialán LM, Turner JD, Michalopoulos GD, Sherrod BA, Agarwal N, Chou D, Haid RW, Mummaneni PV. Cervical spondylotic myelopathy with severe axial neck pain: is anterior or posterior approach better? J Neurosurg Spine 2023; 38:42-55. [PMID: 36029264 DOI: 10.3171/2022.6.spine22110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether multilevel anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) or posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion (PCLF) is superior for patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) and high preoperative neck pain. METHODS This was a retrospective study of prospectively collected data using the Quality Outcomes Database (QOD) CSM module. Patients who received a subaxial fusion of 3 or 4 segments and had a visual analog scale (VAS) neck pain score of 7 or greater at baseline were included. The 3-, 12-, and 24-month outcomes were compared for patients undergoing ACDF with those undergoing PCLF. RESULTS Overall, 1141 patients with CSM were included in the database. Of these, 495 (43.4%) presented with severe neck pain (VAS score > 6). After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, we compared 65 patients (54.6%) undergoing 3- and 4-level ACDF and 54 patients (45.4%) undergoing 3- and 4-level PCLF. Patients undergoing ACDF had worse Neck Disability Index scores at baseline (52.5 ± 15.9 vs 45.9 ± 16.8, p = 0.03) but similar neck pain (p > 0.05). Otherwise, the groups were well matched for the remaining baseline patient-reported outcomes. The rates of 24-month follow-up for ACDF and PCLF were similar (86.2% and 83.3%, respectively). At the 24-month follow-up, both groups demonstrated mean improvements in all outcomes, including neck pain (p < 0.05). In multivariable analyses, there was no significant difference in the degree of neck pain change, rate of neck pain improvement, rate of pain-free achievement, and rate of reaching minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in neck pain between the two groups (adjusted p > 0.05). However, ACDF was associated with a higher 24-month modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association scale (mJOA) score (β = 1.5 [95% CI 0.5-2.6], adjusted p = 0.01), higher EQ-5D score (β = 0.1 [95% CI 0.01-0.2], adjusted p = 0.04), and higher likelihood for return to baseline activities (OR 1.2 [95% CI 1.1-1.4], adjusted p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Severe neck pain is prevalent among patients undergoing surgery for CSM, affecting more than 40% of patients. Both ACDF and PCLF achieved comparable postoperative neck pain improvement 3, 12, and 24 months following 3- or 4-segment surgery for patients with CSM and severe neck pain. However, multilevel ACDF was associated with superior functional status, quality of life, and return to baseline activities at 24 months in multivariable adjusted analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew K Chan
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Oren N Gottfried
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Christine Park
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Khoi D Than
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Erica F Bisson
- 2Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Mohamad Bydon
- 3Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Anthony L Asher
- 4Neuroscience Institute, Carolinas Healthcare System and Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Domagoj Coric
- 4Neuroscience Institute, Carolinas Healthcare System and Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Eric A Potts
- 5Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Kevin T Foley
- 6Department of Neurosurgery, University of Tennessee, Semmes-Murphey Neurologic and Spine Institute, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Michael Y Wang
- 7Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Florida
| | - Kai-Ming Fu
- 8Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Michael S Virk
- 8Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Scott Meyer
- 9Atlantic Neurosurgical Specialists, Morristown, New Jersey
| | - Paul Park
- 10Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Cheerag Upadhyaya
- 11Marion Bloch Neuroscience Institute, Saint Luke's Health System, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Mark E Shaffrey
- 12Department of Neurosurgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Avery L Buchholz
- 12Department of Neurosurgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Jay D Turner
- 13Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
| | | | - Brandon A Sherrod
- 2Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Nitin Agarwal
- 14Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California; and
| | - Dean Chou
- 14Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California; and
| | - Regis W Haid
- 15Atlanta Brain and Spine Care, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Praveen V Mummaneni
- 14Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California; and
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6
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Proximal junctional failure after surgical instrumentation in adult spinal deformity: biomechanical assessment of proximal instrumentation stiffness. Spine Deform 2023; 11:59-69. [PMID: 36083461 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-022-00574-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Assessment of different proximal instrumentation stiffness features to minimize the mechanical proximal junctional failure-related risks through computer-based biomechanical models. OBJECTIVE To biomechanically assess variations of proximal instrumentation and loads acting on the spine and construct to minimize proximal junctional failure (PJF) risks. The use of less-stiff fixation such as hooks or tensioned bands, compared to pedicle screws, at the proximal instrumentation level are considered to allow for a gradual transition in stiffness with the adjacent levels, but the impact of such flexible fixation on the loads balance and complications such as PJF remain uncertain. METHODS Six patients with adult spine deformity who underwent posterior spinal instrumentation were used to numerically model and simulate the surgical steps, erected posture, and flexion functional loading in patient-specific multibody analyses. Three types of upper-level fixation (pedicle screws (PS), supralaminar hooks (SH), and sublaminar bands (SB) with tensions of 50, 250, and 350 N) and rod stiffness (CoCr/6 mm, CoCr/5.5 mm, Ti/5.5 mm) were simulated. The loads acting on the spine and implants of the 90 simulated configurations were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests. RESULTS Simulated high-tensioned bands decreased the sagittal moment at the adjacent level proximal to the instrumentation (1.3 Nm at 250 N; 2.5 Nm at 350 N) compared to screws alone (PS) (15.6 Nm). At one level above, the high-tensioned SB increased the sagittal moment (17.7 Nm-SB vs. 15.5 Nm-PS) and bending moment on the rods (5.4 Nm and 5.7 Nm vs. 0.6 Nm) (p < 0.05). SB with 50 N tension yielded smaller changes in load transition compared to higher tension, with moments of 8.1 Nm and 16.8 Nm one and two levels above the instrumentation. The sagittal moment at the upper implant-vertebra connection decreased with the rod stiffness (1.0 Nm for CoCr/6 mm vs. 0.7 Nm for Ti/5.5 mm; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Simulated sublaminar bands with lower tension produced smaller changes in the load transition across proximal junctional levels. Decreasing the rod stiffness further modified these changes, with a decrease in loads associated with bone failure, however, lower stiffness did increase the rod breakage risk. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.
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7
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Charest-Morin R, Bailey CS, McIntosh G, Rampersaud YR, Jacobs WB, Cadotte DW, Paquet J, Hall H, Weber MH, Johnson MG, Nataraj A, Attabib N, Manson N, Phan P, Christie SD, Thomas KC, Fisher CG, Dea N. Does extending a posterior cervical fusion construct into the upper thoracic spine impact patient-reported outcomes as long as 2 years after surgery in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy? J Neurosurg Spine 2022; 37:547-555. [PMID: 35523250 DOI: 10.3171/2022.3.spine211529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In multilevel posterior cervical instrumented fusion, extension of fusion across the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ) at T1 or T2 has been associated with decreased rates of reoperation and pseudarthrosis but with longer surgical time and increased blood loss. The impact on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) remains unclear. The primary objective was to determine whether extension of fusion through the CTJ influenced PROs at 3, 12, and 24 months after surgery. The secondary objective was to compare the number of patients who reached the minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) for the PROs, modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, length of stay, discharge disposition, adverse events (AEs), reoperation within 24 months of surgery, and patient satisfaction. METHODS This was a retrospective observational cohort study of prospectively collected multicenter data of patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy. Patients who underwent posterior instrumented fusion of 4 levels or greater (between C2 and T2) between January 2015 and October 2020 and received 24 months of follow-up were included. PROs (scores on the Neck Disability Index [NDI], EQ-5D, physical component summary and mental component summary of SF-12, and numeric rating scale for arm and neck pain) and mJOA scores were compared using ANCOVA and adjusted for baseline differences. Patient demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and surgical details were abstracted. The proportions of patients who reached the MCIDs for these outcomes were compared with the chi-square test. Operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, AEs, reoperation, discharge disposition, length of stay, and satisfaction was compared by using the chi-square test for categorical variables and the independent-samples t-test for continuous variables. RESULTS A total of 198 patients were included in this study (101 patients with fusion not crossing the CTJ and 97 with fusion crossing the CTJ). Patients with a construct extending through the CTJ were more likely to be female and have worse baseline NDI scores (p > 0.05). When adjusted for baseline differences, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of the PROs and mJOA scores at 3, 12, and 24 months. Surgical duration was longer (p < 0.001) and intraoperative blood loss was greater in the group with fusion extending to the upper thoracic spine (p = 0.013). There were no significant differences between groups in terms of AEs (p > 0.05). Fusion with a construct crossing the CTJ was associated with reoperation (p = 0.04). Satisfaction with surgery was not significantly different between groups. The proportions of patients who reached the MCIDs for the PROs were not statistically different at any time point. CONCLUSIONS There were no statistically significant differences in PROs between patients with a posterior construct extending to the upper thoracic spine and those without such extension for as long as 24 months after surgery. The AE profiles were not significantly different, but longer surgical time and increased blood loss were associated with constructs extending across the CTJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphaële Charest-Morin
- 1Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia
| | - Christopher S Bailey
- 2Department of Orthopedics Surgery, London Health Science Centre, Western University, London, Ontario
| | - Greg McIntosh
- 3Canadian Spine Outcomes and Research Network, Markdale, Ontario
| | - Y Raja Rampersaud
- 4Divisions of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, Ontario
| | - W Bradley Jacobs
- 5Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, University of Calgary, Alberta
| | - David W Cadotte
- 5Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, University of Calgary, Alberta
| | - Jérome Paquet
- 6Centre de Recherche CHU de Quebec, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec
| | - Hamilton Hall
- 7Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Ontario
| | - Michael H Weber
- 8Department of Orthopedics Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec
| | - Michael G Johnson
- 9Department of Surgery, Section of Orthopedics and Neurosurgery, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Andrew Nataraj
- 10Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Najmedden Attabib
- 11Canada East Spine Centre, Division of Neurosurgery, Zone 2, Horizon Health Network, Saint John, New Brunswick
| | - Neil Manson
- 12Canada East Spine Centre, Saint John Orthopedics, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John Campus, Saint John, New Brunswick
| | - Philippe Phan
- 13Department of Orthopedics Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario; and
| | - Sean D Christie
- 14Division of Neurosurgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Kenneth C Thomas
- 5Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, University of Calgary, Alberta
| | - Charles G Fisher
- 1Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia
| | - Nicolas Dea
- 1Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Program, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia
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Toci GR, Karamian BA, Lambrechts MJ, Mao J, Mandel J, Darrach T, Canseco JA, Kaye ID, Woods BI, Rihn J, Kurd MF, Hilibrand AS, Kepler CK, Vaccaro AR, Schroeder GD. Instrumentation Across the Cervicothoracic Junction Does Not Improve Patient-reported Outcomes in Multilevel Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion. Clin Spine Surg 2022; 35:E667-E673. [PMID: 35383594 DOI: 10.1097/bsd.0000000000001335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine if instrumentation across the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ) in elective multilevel posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCF) is associated with improved patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Fusion across the CTJ may result in lower revision rates at the expense of prolonged operative duration. However, it is unclear whether constructs crossing the CTJ affect PROMs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Standard Query Language (SQL) identified patients with PROMs who underwent elective multilevel PCF (≥3 levels) at our institution. Patients were grouped based on anatomic construct: crossing the CTJ (crossed) versus not crossing the CTJ (noncrossed). Subgroup analysis compared constructs stopping at C7 or T1. Independent t tests and χ 2 tests were utilized for continuous and categorical data, respectively. Regression analysis controlled for baseline demographics. The α was set at 0.05. RESULTS Of the 160 patients included, the crossed group (92, 57.5%) had significantly more levels fused (5.27 vs. 3.71, P <0.001), longer operative duration (196 vs. 161 min, P =0.003), greater estimated blood loss (242 vs. 160 mL, P =0.021), and a decreased revision rate (1.09% vs. 10.3%, P =0.011). Neither crossing the CTJ (vs. noncrossed) nor constructs spanning C3-T1 (vs. C3-C7) were independent predictors of ∆PROMs (change in preoperative minus postoperative patient-reported outcomes) on regression analysis. However, C3-C7 constructs had a greater revision rate than C3-T1 constructs (15.6% vs. 1.96%, P =0.030). CONCLUSION Crossing the CTJ in patients undergoing elective multilevel PCF was not an independent predictor of improvement in PROMs at 1 year, but they experienced lower revision rates. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory R Toci
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
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Coban D, Faloon M, Changoor S, Saela S, Sahai N, Record N, Sinha K, Hwang K, Emami A. Should we bridge the cervicothoracic junction in long cervical fusions? A meta-analysis and systematic review of the literature. J Neurosurg Spine 2022; 37:166-174. [PMID: 35120314 DOI: 10.3171/2021.12.spine211090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Long posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCF) is commonly performed to surgically treat patients with multilevel cervical pathology. In cases in which constructs may necessitate crossing the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ), recommendations for appropriate caudal fusion level vary in the literature. The aim of this study was to report the clinical and radiological outcomes of multilevel PCFs ending at C7 versus those crossing the CTJ. METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL Plus, and Scopus was conducted to identify articles that evaluated clinical and radiological outcomes of long PCFs that ended at C7 (cervical group) or crossed the CTJ (thoracic group). Based on heterogeneity, random-effects models of a meta-analysis were used to estimate the pooled estimates and the 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS PCF outcome data of 1120 patients from 10 published studies were included. Compared with the cervical group, the thoracic group experienced greater mean blood loss (453.0 ml [95% CI 333.6-572.5 ml] vs 303.5 ml [95% CI 203.4-403.6 ml]), longer operative times (235.5 minutes [95% CI 187.7-283.3 minutes] vs 198.5 minutes [95% CI 157.9-239.0 minutes]), and a longer length of stay (6.7 days [95% CI 3.3-10.2 days] vs 6.2 days [95% CI 3.8-8.7 days]); however, these differences were not statistically significant. None of the included studies specifically investigated factors that led to the decision of whether to cross the CTJ. The cervical group had a mean fusion rate of 86% (95% CI 71%-94%) compared with the thoracic group with a rate of 90% (95% CI 81%-95%). Of patients in the cervical group, 17% (95% CI 10%-28%) required revision surgery compared with 7% (95% CI 4%-13%) of those in the thoracic group, but this difference was not statistically significant. The proportion of patients who experienced complications in the cervical group was found to be 28% (95% CI 12%-52%) versus 14% (95% CI 7%-26%) in the thoracic group; however, this difference was not statistically significant. There was no significant difference (no overlap of 95% CIs) in the incidence of adjacent-segment disease, pseudarthrosis, or wound-related complications between groups. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis suggests similar clinical and radiographic outcomes in multilevel PCF, regardless of inclusion of the CTJ. The lowest instrumented level did not significantly affect revision rates or complications. The ideal stopping point must be tailored to each patient on an individualized basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Coban
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
| | - Michael Faloon
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
| | - Stuart Changoor
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
| | - Stephen Saela
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
| | - Nikhil Sahai
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
| | - Nicole Record
- 2LA Bone and Joint Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, Encino, California
| | - Kumar Sinha
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
| | - Ki Hwang
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
| | - Arash Emami
- 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey; and
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Chang MC, Kim GU, Choo YJ, Lee GW. To cross or not to cross the cervicothoracic junction in multilevel posterior cervical fusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Spine J 2022; 22:723-731. [PMID: 35017051 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inclusion of the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ) during decision-making regarding the surgical level of multilevel posterior cervical fusion (PCF) surgery remains the subject of debate, largely due to a lack of studies on the topic. Thus, we considered that meta-analysis based on recent high-quality clinical studies might enable better-informed decision-making regarding the selection of the distal level of multilevel PCF, particularly concerning the advisability of crossing the CTJ. PURPOSE To compare the outcomes of patients who underwent multilevel PCF with or without crossing the CTJ (the thoracic and cervical groups, respectively) by the distal construct. STUDY DESIGN A systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS We searched the Cochrane, Embase, and Medline databases for articles that compared the intra- and post-operative outcomes of patients who underwent multilevel PCF surgery with or without extension of surgery to include the CTJ, using January 7, 2021, as the publication cutoff date. Group differences in primary and secondary outcome measures were analyzed for significance (p<.05). All reported means were pooled. RESULTS A total of 1,904 publications were assessed, and eight studies met the study criteria. The cervical group had a significantly greater fusion rate than the thoracic group (p=.03), but higher adjacent segment disease (ASD) and reoperation rates (ASD: OR=3.15, p=.007; reoperation: OR=1.93, p=.008). As regards surgical outcomes, mean blood loss was less and operation time was shorter in the cervical group (p=.008 and .009, respectively). However, mean hospital stays were not significantly different (p=.12), and neither were the rates of complications, such as metal failure and hematoma. CONCLUSIONS In the current study, fusion rate, blood loss, and operation time were better in the cervical group than in the thoracic group, but ASD incidence and ASD-related complication rates at the CTJ were greater in the cervical group. For patients with higher risk factors for adjacent-segment degeneration, crossing the CTJ may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Gang-Un Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hanil General Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoo Jin Choo
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Gun Woo Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea.
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Crossing the Cervicothoracic Junction in Multilevel Cervical Arthrodesis: A Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis. World Neurosurg 2022; 162:e336-e346. [PMID: 35276394 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In multisegment cervical arthrodeses, a common clinical dilemma for the surgeon is whether to extend the fusion past the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ). OBJECTIVE This meta-analysis compares clinical outcomes and radiological parameters when crossing and not crossing the CTJ. METHODS Our outcomes of interest included overall reoperation, successful fusion, adjacent segment disease (ASD) leading to revision surgery, estimated blood loss (EBL), length of stay (LOS). We also studied the postoperative change in radiological parameters - cervical sagittal vertical axis (cSVA), cervical lordosis (CL), and T1 slope (T1S) - and change in Neck Disability Index (NDI) and neck pain in Visual Analog Scale (VAS). RESULTS Thirteen studies with 1,720 patients were included. There were 974 (56.6%) patients in the non-crossing group and 746 (43.4%) patients in the crossing group. Non-crossing was associated with a higher risk of overall reoperation (RR=1.56; 95% CI:0.98-2.47) and ASD requiring revision surgery (RR=2.82; 95% CI:1.33-5.98; number-needed-to-harm = 22). The non-crossing group had lower EBL by 175 mL and shorter LOS by one day; the latter finding was only trending towards statistical significance. Successful fusion, as well as changes in cSVA, CL, NDI, and VAS were not different between the two groups at a statistically significant level. CONCLUSIONS In multilevel cervical arthrodesis, not crossing the CTJ is associated with a higher risk of overall reoperation and ASD requiring reoperation than crossing the CTJ, along with lower EBL and LOS. Differences in successful fusion, patient-reported outcomes, and sagittal radiological parameters were not significant.
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12
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Guppy KH, Royse KE, Fennessy JH, Norheim EP, Harris JE, Brara HS. No difference in reoperation rates for nonunions (operative nonunions) in posterior cervical fusions stopping at C7 versus T1/2: a cohort of 875 patients. J Neurosurg Spine 2021:1-7. [PMID: 34952515 DOI: 10.3171/2021.10.spine211085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The challenges of posterior cervical fusions (PCFs) at the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ) are widely known, including the development of adjacent-segment disease by stopping fusions at C7. One solution has been to cross the CTJ (T1/T2) rather than stopping at C7. This approach may have undue consequences, including increased reoperations for symptomatic nonunion (operative nonunion). The authors sought to investigate if there is a difference in operative nonunion in PCFs that stop at C7 versus T1/T2. METHODS A retrospective analysis identified patients from the authors' spine registry (Kaiser Permanente) who underwent PCFs with caudal fusion levels at C7 and T1/T2. Demographics, diagnoses, operative times, lengths of stay, and reoperations were extracted from the registry. Operative nonunion was adjudicated via chart review. Patients were followed until validated operative nonunion, membership termination, death, or end of study (March 31, 2020). Descriptive statistics and 2-year crude incidence rates and 95% confidence intervals for operative nonunion for PCFs stopping at C7 or T1/T2 were reported. Time-dependent crude and adjusted multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate operative nonunion rates. RESULTS The authors identified 875 patients with PCFs (beginning at C3, C4, C5, or C6) stopping at either C7 (n = 470) or T1/T2 (n = 405) with a mean follow-up time of 4.6 ± 3.3 years and a mean time to operative nonunion of 0.9 ± 0.6 years. There were 17 operative nonunions, and, after adjustment for age at surgery and smoking status, the cumulative incidence rates were similar between constructs stopping at C7 and those that extended to T1/T2 (C7: 1.91% [95% CI 0.88%-3.60%]; T1/T2: 1.98% [95% CI 0.86%-3.85%]). In the crude model and model adjusted for age at surgery and smoking status, no difference in risk for constructs extended to T1/T2 compared to those stopping at C7 was found (adjusted HR 1.09 [95% CI 0.42-2.84], p = 0.86). CONCLUSIONS In one of the largest cohort of patients with PCFs stopping at C7 or T1/T2 with an average follow-up of > 4 years, the authors found no statistically significant difference in reoperation rates for symptomatic nonunion (operative nonunion). This finding shows that there is no added risk of operative nonunion by extending PCFs to T1/T2 or stopping at C7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kern H Guppy
- 1The Permanente Medical Group, Sacramento, California
| | - Kathryn E Royse
- 2Surgical Outcomes and Analysis, Kaiser Permanente, San Diego, California
| | | | | | - Jessica E Harris
- 2Surgical Outcomes and Analysis, Kaiser Permanente, San Diego, California
| | - Harsimran S Brara
- 4Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Los Angeles, California
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Hines K, Wilt ZT, Franco D, Mahtabfar A, Elmer N, Gonzalez GA, Montenegro TS, Velagapudi L, Patel PD, Detweiler M, Fatema U, Schroeder GD, Harrop J. Long-segment posterior cervical decompression and fusion: does caudal level affect revision rate? J Neurosurg Spine 2021; 35:1-7. [PMID: 33892477 DOI: 10.3171/2020.10.spine201385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCDF) is a commonly performed procedure to address cervical myelopathy. A significant number of these patients require revision surgery for adjacent-segment disease (ASD) or pseudarthrosis. Currently, there is no consensus among spine surgeons on the inclusion of proximal thoracic spine instrumentation. This study investigates the benefits of thoracic extension in long-segment cervical fusions and the potential drawbacks. The authors compare outcomes in long-segment subaxial cervical fusion for degenerative cervical myelopathy with caudal vertebral levels of C6, C7, and T1. METHODS A retrospective analysis identified 369 patients who underwent PCDF. Patients were grouped by caudal fusion level. Reoperation rates for ASD and pseudarthrosis, infection, and blood loss were examined. Data were analyzed with chi-square, 1-way ANOVA, and logistic regression. RESULTS The total reoperation rate for symptomatic pseudarthrosis or ASD was 4.8%. Reoperation rates, although not significant, were lower in the C3-6 group (2.6%, vs 8.3% for C3-7 and 3.8% for C3-T1; p = 0.129). Similarly, rates of infection were lower in the shorter-segment fusion without achieving statistical significance (2.6% for C3-6, vs 5.6% for C3-7 and 5.5% for C3-T1; p = 0.573). The mean blood loss was documented as 104, 125, and 224 mL for groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Given the lack of statistical difference in reoperation rates for long-segment cervical fusions ending at C6, C7, or T1, shorter fusions in high-risk surgical candidates or elderly patients may be performed without higher rates of reoperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Hines
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Zachary T Wilt
- 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Daniel Franco
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Aria Mahtabfar
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Nicholas Elmer
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Glenn A Gonzalez
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Thiago S Montenegro
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Lohit Velagapudi
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Parthik D Patel
- 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Maxwell Detweiler
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Umma Fatema
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
| | - Gregory D Schroeder
- 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - James Harrop
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia; and
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Okamoto N, Kato S, Doi T, Matsubayashi Y, Taniguchi Y, Yoshida Y, Kawamura N, Nakarai H, Higashikawa A, Tozawa K, Takeshita Y, Yu J, Hara N, Sasaki K, Azuma S, Tanaka S, Oshima Y. Relative Risks and Benefits of Crossing the Cervicothoracic Junction During Multilevel Posterior Cervical Fusion: A Multicenter Cohort. World Neurosurg 2021; 153:e265-e274. [PMID: 34175484 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.06.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes and complications in patients undergoing multilevel posterior cervical fusion surgery, ending at C7 or crossing the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ). METHODS A total of 96 patients undergoing multilevel posterior cervical fusion surgery ending at C7, T1, or T2 were screened. The patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were divided into 2 groups based on the lower instrumented vertebra (LIV) level: group C7 (ending at C7) and group T1-T2 (crossing the CTJ). The radiographic and clinical outcomes were compared between the 2 groups, and the risk factors for instrument failure at LIV were investigated. RESULTS In total, 73 patients (76%) completed at least 1 year follow-up and divided into group C7 (n = 43) and group T1-T2 (n = 30). Preoperative and postoperative radiographic parameters, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association score, and patient-reported outcomes were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Significantly longer surgical time, increased blood loss, and higher incidence rates of perioperative or postoperative complications were noted in group T1-T2. On the other hand, the incidence of instrument failures at LIV was significantly higher in group C7. Multivariate analysis showed that ending at C7, skipping screw insertion at the proximal vertebra adjacent to LIV, and a large postoperative cervical sagittal vertical axis (>40 mm) were risk factors for instrument failure at LIV. CONCLUSIONS Crossing the CTJ during multilevel posterior cervical fusion surgery reduced instrument failures at LIV, but increased the surgical invasiveness and perioperative and postoperative complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Okamoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - So Kato
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toru Doi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Matsubayashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Taniguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Yoshida
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Spine and Orthopedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naohiro Kawamura
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Spine and Orthopedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nakarai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japan Organization of Occupational Health and Safety Kanto Rosai Hospital, Nakahara-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Akiro Higashikawa
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japan Organization of Occupational Health and Safety Kanto Rosai Hospital, Nakahara-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Keiichiro Tozawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japan Organization of Occupational Health and Safety Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yujiro Takeshita
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japan Organization of Occupational Health and Safety Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Jim Yu
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Musashino Hospital, Musashino, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Hara
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Musashino Hospital, Musashino, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Sasaki
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Saitama Hospital, Chuou-ku, Saitama, Japan
| | - Seiichi Azuma
- University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Saitama Hospital, Chuou-ku, Saitama, Japan
| | - Sakae Tanaka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Oshima
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Spine Group (UTSG), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
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