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Vijayendra V, Bhargava D, Pridgeon M, Szylak R, Eldridge P, Osman-Farah J. Dorsal root entry zone lesioning for brachial plexus avulsion - technical evolution and long-term follow-up. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2024; 166:241. [PMID: 38814478 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-024-06132-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) injuries can cause severe deafferentation pain. This has been successfully treated with dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning. Distortions in anatomy following a BPA injury can make identifying neural structures challenging. We describe a modification to the operative technique that improves the surgical view and the advanced intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) employed to identify DREZ. We have analysed the long-term outcomes for pain, quality of life, and complications in patients undergoing DREZ lesioning. METHODS This is a single-centre retrospective case series including patients who underwent DREZ lesioning with IONM for brachial plexus avulsion between 2012 and 2022. Analysed data included pre- and postoperative pain (VAS), quality of life score for chronic pain, and complications. The evolution of the surgical approach is discussed. RESULTS 44 consecutive patients underwent a DREZ lesioning procedure with intraoperative monitoring and mapping. In these patients the mean VAS score improved from 8.9 (7-10) to 1.87 (0-6) (p < 0.0001) at the time of discharge. 31 patients were followed-up for more than 12 months with a mean duration of follow-up of 41 months and their results were as follows: the mean VAS improved from 9.0 (7-10) to 4.1 (0-9) (p < 0.0001) at the last follow-up and the mean QOL values improved from 3.7 (2-6) to 7.4 (4-10) (p < 0.0001). The long-term outcomes were 'good' in 39%, 'fair' in 29% and 'poor' in 32% of patients. 55% of the patients were able to stop or reduce pain medications. CONCLUSIONS Modifications of surgical technique provide better exposure of DREZ, and IONM aids in identifying DREZ in the presence of severe intra-dural changes. Long-term outcomes of DREZ lesioning indicate not only a reduction in pain but also a significant improvement in quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwas Vijayendra
- Departament of Neurosurgery, The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool, L9 7LJ, UK.
| | - Deepti Bhargava
- Departament of Neurosurgery, The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool, L9 7LJ, UK
| | - Michael Pridgeon
- Departament of Neurophysiology, The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool, L9 7LJ, UK
| | - Rafal Szylak
- Departament of Neurosurgery, The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool, L9 7LJ, UK
| | - Paul Eldridge
- Retired, Department of Neurosurgery, The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool, L9 7LJ, UK
| | - Jibril Osman-Farah
- Departament of Neurosurgery, The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool, L9 7LJ, UK
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2
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Georgoulis G, Neromyliotis E, Sindou M. Anatomical damages in the spinal nerve roots and the spinal cord after brachial plexus injury: descriptive study from a cohort of consecutive patients who underwent DREZ-lesioning for pain-practical implications. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2024; 166:201. [PMID: 38698241 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-024-06063-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systematic descriptions of anatomical damage after brachial plexus injury (BPI) at the intradural level have been scarcely reported in detail. However, considering these damages, not only in the spinal nerve roots but also in the spinal cord itself, is crucial in determining the appropriate surgical approach to restore upper limb function and address refractory pain. Therefore, the authors present a descriptive study focusing on intradural findings observed during microsurgical DREZ-lesioning. METHODS This study enrolled 19 consecutive patients under the same protocol. Microsurgical observation through exposure of C4 to Th1 medullary segments allowed to describe the lesions in spinal nerve roots, meninges, and spinal cord. Electrical stimulation of the ventral roots checked the muscle responses. RESULTS Extensive damage was observed among the 114 explored roots (six roots per patient), with only 21 (18.4%) ventral (VR) and 17 (14.9%) dorsal (DR) roots retaining all rootlets intact. Damage distribution varied, with the most frequent impairments in C6 VRs (18 patients) and the least in Th1 VRs (14 patients), while in all the 19 patients for the C6 DRs (the most frequently impaired) and in 14 patients for Th1 DRs (the less impaired). C4 roots were found damaged in 12 patients. Total or partial avulsions affected 63.3% and 69.8% of DRs and VRs, respectively, while 15.8% and 14.0% of the 114 DRs and VRs were atrophic, maintaining muscle responses to stimulation in half of those VRs. Pseudomeningoceles were present in 11 patients but absent in 46% of avulsed roots. Adhesive arachnoiditis was noted in 12 patients, and dorsal horn parenchymal alterations in 10. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge of intradural lesions post-BPI helps in guiding surgical indications for repair and functional neurosurgery for pain control.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Georgoulis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Athens "G. Gennimatas", Mesogeion Avenue 154, 11527, Athens, Greece.
| | | | - Marc Sindou
- University of Lyon, Lyon, France
- Department of Neurosurgery, Groupe ELSAN, Clinique Bretéché, Nantes, France
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Santyr B, Abbass M, Chalil A, Vivekanandan A, Tindale M, Boulis NM, Lau JC. Surgical Interventions Targeting the Nucleus Caudalis for Craniofacial Pain: A Systematic and Historical Review. Neuromodulation 2023; 26:1480-1492. [PMID: 36192281 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.08.454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Craniofacial pain is a prevalent group of conditions, and when refractory to conventional treatments, it poses a significant burden. The last decade has seen a renewed interest in the multimodal management of pain. Interventions targeting the nucleus caudalis (NC) of the trigeminocervical complex have been available as a treatment option since the 1930s, yet evidence for efficacy remains limited. MATERIALS AND METHODS We present a systematic review of the literature providing a historical perspective on interventions targeting the NC leading up to the present. We examine the various intervention techniques, clinical indications, and procedural efficacy. A novel outcome-reporting scheme was devised to enable comparison among studies owing to historically variable reporting methods. RESULTS A review of the literature revealed 33 retrospective studies published over the last 80 years, reporting on 827 patients. The most common technique was the open NC dorsal root entry zone nucleotomy/tractotomy; however, there has been an emergence of novel approaches such as endoscopic and spinal cord stimulation in the last ten years. Regardless of intervention technique or preoperative diagnosis, 87% of patients showed improvement with treatment. CONCLUSIONS The literature surrounding NC intervention techniques is reviewed. Recent advancements and the wide range of craniofacial pain syndromes for which these interventions show potential efficacy are discussed. New and less invasive techniques continue to emerge as putative therapeutic options. However, prospective studies are lacking. Furthermore, the evidence supporting even well-established techniques remains of poor quality. Future work should be prospective, use standard outcome reporting, and address efficacy comparisons between intervention type and preoperative diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Santyr
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohamad Abbass
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alan Chalil
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amirti Vivekanandan
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margaret Tindale
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jonathan C Lau
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
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4
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Du T, Ni B, Shu W, Ren Z, Guo S, Zhang X, Zhu H, Hu Y. Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning Following Unresponsive Spinal Cord Stimulation for Post-Traumatic Neuropathic Pain. World Neurosurg 2023; 178:e300-e306. [PMID: 37473865 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning are important therapeutic options for intractable post-traumatic neuropathic pain (PNP). However, surgical choice is controversial due to the need to maximize pain relief and reduce complications. This study aims to retrospectively analyze the effect and complications of DREZ lesioning for patients with PNP who were unresponsive to SCS and provide a surgical reference. METHODS Demographic data and surgical characteristics of patients with PNP who underwent DREZ lesioning after an unresponsive SCS were reviewed. Long-term outcomes including numeric rating scale, global impression of change, and long-term complications were assessed. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate pain-free survival. RESULTS Of 19 patients with PNP, 8 had brachial plexus injury (BPI), 7 had spinal cord injury, 2 had cauda equina injury, 1 had intercostal nerve injury, and 1 had lumbosacral plexus injury. All patients were unresponsive or had a recurrence of pain after SCS, with an average pain-relief rate of 9.3%. After DREZ lesioning, the mean numeric rating scale scores significantly decreased from 7.6 ± 1.5 to 1.8 ± 1.7, with an average pain-relief rate of 75.3%. Seven patients (36.8%) experienced worsened neurologic dysfunction at the last follow-up. Patients with BPI had a significantly better outcome than other pathologies (P < 0.001) after DREZ lesioning. CONCLUSIONS DREZ lesioning is an effective alternative procedure to SCS for patients with PNP who have lost limb function. Particularly for those with BPI, DREZ lesioning has shown good efficacy and can be considered a preferred surgical option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Du
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Ni
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Shu
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiwei Ren
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Song Guo
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Zhu
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongsheng Hu
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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5
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Neurochirurgia del dolore. Neurologia 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(22)47347-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
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6
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Iglesias B, Pérez Zabala J, Argañaraz R, Mantese B. Lumbosacral DREZotomy for oncologic pain treatment: a case-based review. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:41-45. [PMID: 35970942 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05622-4] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To present 3 cases of oncologic pain treated by DREZotomy in the pediatric population and to review the literature published about this procedure. METHODS The permanent literature about oncologic pain treatment in children and the applicability of DREZotomy was reviewed. Three cases treated at our institution were reviewed and presented. RESULTS In the pediatric population, the DREZotomy has been extensively applied for the treatment of spasticity and spasticity-related pain. Currently, there are no reports of oncologic pain treated by means of a DREZotomy in children. We presented 3 cases coursing the terminal stage of illness, presenting predominantly neuropathic, oncologic pain that were successfully managed after a DREZotomy was performed. CONCLUSION In well-selected patients, with a good general condition and life expectancy to withstand an open neurosurgical procedure, DREZotomy is an excellent tool to treat neuropathic oncologic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Iglesias
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clinicas "Jose de San Martin", University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Córdoba 2351, C1120AAF, City of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Joaquín Pérez Zabala
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina Argañaraz
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Beatriz Mantese
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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7
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Kimoto Y, Hosomi K, Ohnishi Y, Emura T, Mori N, Nishi A, Yanagisawa T, Tani N, Oshino S, Saitoh Y, Kishima H. Tight adhesions after spinal cord stimulation observed during dorsal root entry zone lesioning for pain after spinal root avulsion: illustrative cases. JOURNAL OF NEUROSURGERY. CASE LESSONS 2022; 4:CASE22145. [PMID: 36281477 PMCID: PMC9592961 DOI: 10.3171/case22145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients often experience strong shooting pains after spinal root avulsion. The efficacy of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for this type of pain is inconsistent; however, dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning (DREZ-lesion) has often proven to be an effective treatment modality. The authors report two cases in which DREZ-lesion was performed to treat pain after spinal root avulsion after implantation of SCS, but the operations were challenging due to strong adhesions. OBSERVATIONS The authors present two cases of patients with pain after spinal root avulsion in whom SCS implantation was only temporarily effective. Patients complained of persistent and paroxysmal shooting pains in the upper extremities. SCS removal and DREZ-lesion were performed, but adhesions in the epidural and subdural space contacting the leads were strong, making it difficult to expose the DREZ. LESSONS Although adhesions around the spinal cord can be caused by trauma, the authors believe that in these cases, the adhesions could have been caused by the SCS leads. There are few previous reports confirming the efficacy of SCS in treating pain after spinal root avulsion; therefore, caution is required when considering SCS implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Kimoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Koichi Hosomi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan,Center for Pain Management, Osaka University Hospital, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Ohnishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan,Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka Gyoumeikan Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takuto Emura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Mori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan,Center for Pain Management, Osaka University Hospital, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Asaya Nishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takufumi Yanagisawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan,Institute for Advanced Co-Creation Studies, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Naoki Tani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Satoru Oshino
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan,Center for Pain Management, Osaka University Hospital, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Youichi Saitoh
- Osaka University Graduate School of Engineering Science, Toyonaka, Osaka, Japan; and ,Tokuyukai Rehabilitation Clinic, Toyonaka, Osaka, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Kishima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan,Center for Pain Management, Osaka University Hospital, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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8
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Brînzeu A, Sindou M. The Pierre Wertheimer Neurological and Neurosurgical Hospital in Lyon: history of its development and contributions to neurosurgery. J Neurosurg 2022; 138:1457-1466. [PMID: 36087314 DOI: 10.3171/2022.7.jns212946] [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: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
At the end of the 1950s, at the direction of Pierre Wertheimer, the first French professor of neurosurgery, the treatment of neurological and neurosurgical diseases for Lyon's 2 million people was concentrated in a single center functioning as not only a hospital but also a campus for neuroscience. The ideas behind the structure revolve around concepts such as spatial unity, comprehensive specialized fields, a critical mass of patients, a structured training program, and essential cross-communication between areas in the same field. Through several generations of doctors, researchers, and professors, the Pierre Wertheimer Neurological and Neurosurgical Hospital in Lyon (NHL) has had an important impact on clinical practice, fundamental neuroscientific research, and specialist training. Under Wertheimer's stewardship, functional neurosurgery became one of the fields of excellence at the NHL with contributions in pain surgery and physiology but also epilepsy surgery and surgery for spasticity. Typically, these contributions were the result of the collaboration of separate teams, ultimately laying the groundwork for a neuroscientific doctoral school. The large mass of patients treated at the NHL provided opportunities for other, more isolated insights, such as the classification of pineal tumors and contributions to interventional neuroradiology. The present work endeavors to illustrate the contributions of the NHL to neuroscience and discuss the background allowing for their occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Brînzeu
- 2Pain Research Unit (Neuropain) Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, University of Lyon, France.,3Neuroscience Research Center, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babes" Timisoara; and.,4Neurosurgery Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babes" Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marc Sindou
- 1Neurosurgery Department, University of Lyon.,3Neuroscience Research Center, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babes" Timisoara; and
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Chalil A, Wang Q, Abbass M, Santyr BG, MacDougall KW, Staudt MD. Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning for Brachial Plexus Avulsion Injuries: Case Series and Literature Review. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2021; 2:749801. [PMID: 35295454 PMCID: PMC8915773 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.749801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) injuries commonly occur secondary to motor vehicle collisions, usually in the young adult population. These injuries are associated with significant morbidity, and up to 90% of patients suffer from deafferentation pain. Neuromodulation procedures can be efficacious in the treatment of refractory neuropathic pain, although the treatment of pain due to BPA can be challenging. Dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning is a classical and effective neurosurgical technique which has become underutilized in treating refractory root avulsion pain. Methods: A systematic review of the different technical nuances, procedural efficacy, and complication profiles regarding DREZ lesioning for BPA injuries in the literature is included. We also present an institutional case series of 7 patients with BPA injuries who underwent DREZ lesioning. Results: In the literature, 692 patients were identified to have undergone DREZ lesioning for pain related to BPA. In 567 patients, the surgery was successful in reducing pain intensity by over 50% in comparison to baseline (81.9%). Complications included transient motor deficits (11%) and transient sensory deficits (11%). Other complications including permanent disability, cardiovascular complications, infections, or death were rare (<1.9%). In our case series, all but one patient achieved >50% reduction in pain intensity, with the mean pre-operative pain of 7.9 ± 0.63 (visual analog scale) reduced to 2.1 ± 0.99 at last follow-up (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Both the literature and the current case series demonstrate excellent pain severity reduction following DREZ ablation for deafferentation pain secondary to BPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Chalil
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Mohamad Abbass
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Brendan G. Santyr
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Keith W. MacDougall
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michael D. Staudt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI, United States
- Michigan Head and Spine Institute, Southfield, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael D. Staudt
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10
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Mongardi L, Visani J, Mantovani G, Vitali C, Ricciardi L, Giordano F, Cavallo MA, Lofrese G, D'andrea M, Roblot P, De Bonis P, Scerrati A. Long term results of Dorsal Root Entry Zone (DREZ) lesions for the treatment of intractable pain: A systematic review of the literature on 1242 cases. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2021; 210:107004. [PMID: 34739884 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2021.107004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different Dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesion techniques have been reported as effective treatment for intractable painful conditions, though with contradictory results. Overall, good results were reported especially in specific conditions, such as pain due to brachial plexus avulsion, spinal cord injuries and oncological pain management. However, data on long term results in different clinical conditions are still missing. OBJECTIVE This study aims to systematically review the pertinent literature to evaluate indications, clinical outcomes, and complications of DREZ lesion (DREZotomy), in chronic pain management. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. Papers on DREZotomy for chronic pain in cancer, brachial plexus avulsion, spinal cord injury, post herpetic neuralgia, and phantom limb pain were considered for eligibility. For each category we further identified two sub-group according to the length of follow up: medium term and long term follow up (more than 3 years) respectively. RESULTS 46 papers, and 1242 patients, were included in the present investigation. When considering long term results DREZotomy provided favorable clinical outcomes in brachial plexus avulsion and spinal cord injury, in 60.8% and 55.8% of the cases respectively. Conversely, the success rate was 35.3% in phantom limb pain and 28.2% in post herpetic neuralgia. A poor clinical outcome was reported in over than 25% of the patients suffering from phantom limb pain, post herpetic neuralgia and spinal cord injury. The mean complications rate was 23.58%. While BPA and SCI patients presented stable improvement over time, good outcomes among PHN and PLP groups dropped by - 46.2%; and - 14.7% at long term follow up respectively. CONCLUSION DREZotomy seems to be an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions, especially for brachial plexus avulsion, spinal cord injury and intractable cancer/post-radiation pain. According to the low level of evidence of the pertinent literature, further studies are strongly recommended, to better define potential benefits and limitations of this technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Mongardi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Jacopo Visani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Mantovani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Costanza Vitali
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant' Anna, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Ricciardi
- UO di Neurochirurgia, Pia Fondazione di Culto e Religione Cardinal G. Panico, Tricase, LE, Italy
| | - Flavio Giordano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital A. Meyer, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Alessandro Cavallo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | - Paul Roblot
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Pasquale De Bonis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alba Scerrati
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
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Gebreyohanes AMH, Ahmed AI, Choi D. Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning for Brachial Plexus Avulsion: A Comprehensive Literature Review. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown) 2021; 20:324-333. [PMID: 33469654 DOI: 10.1093/ons/opaa447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning is a neurosurgical procedure that aims to relieve severe neuropathic pain in patients with brachial plexus avulsion by selectively destroying nociceptive neural structures in the posterior cervical spinal cord. Since the introduction of the procedure over 4 decades ago, the DREZ lesioning technique has undergone numerous modifications, with a variety of center- and surgeon-dependent technical differences and patient outcomes. We have reviewed the literature to discuss reported methods of DREZ lesioning and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axumawi Mike Hailu Gebreyohanes
- Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, United Kingdom.,University College London (UCL) Medical School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aminul Islam Ahmed
- Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Choi
- Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, United Kingdom
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12
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Hama A, Yano M, Sotogawa W, Fujii R, Awaga Y, Natsume T, Hayashi I, Takamatsu H. Pharmacological modulation of brain activation to non-noxious stimulation in a cynomolgus macaque model of peripheral nerve injury. Mol Pain 2021; 17:17448069211008697. [PMID: 33853400 PMCID: PMC8053757 DOI: 10.1177/17448069211008697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo neuroimaging could be utilized as a noninvasive tool for elaborating the CNS mechanism of chronic pain and for elaborating mechanisms of potential analgesic therapeutics. A model of unilateral peripheral neuropathy was developed in the cynomolgus macaque, a species that is phylogenetically close to humans. Nerve entrapment was induced by placing a 4 mm length of polyvinyl cuff around the left common sciatic nerve. Prior to nerve injury, stimulation of the foot with a range of non-noxious von Frey filaments (1, 4, 8, 15, and 26 g) did not evoke brain activation as observed with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Two weeks after injury, stimulation of the ipsilateral foot with non-noxious filaments activated the contralateral insula/secondary somatosensory cortex (Ins/SII) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). By contrast, no activation was observed with stimulation of the contralateral foot. Robust bilateral activation of thalamus was observed three to five weeks after nerve injury. Treatment with the clinical analgesic pregabalin reduced evoked activation of Ins/SII, thalamus and ACC whereas treatment with the NK1 receptor antagonist aprepitant reduced activation of the ipsilateral (left) thalamus. Twelve to 13 weeks after nerve injury, treatment with pregabalin reduced evoked activation of all regions of interest (ROI). By contrast, brain activation persisted in most ROI, except the ACC, following aprepitant treatment. Activation of the contralateral Ins/SII and bilateral thalamus was observed six months after nerve injury and pregabalin treatment suppressed activation of these nuclei. The current findings demonstrated persistent changes in CNS neurons following nerve injury as suggested by activation with non-painful mechanical stimulation. Furthermore, it was possible to functionally distinguish between a clinically efficacious analgesic drug, pregabalin, from a drug that has not demonstrated significant clinical analgesic efficacy, aprepitant. In vivo neuroimaging in the current nonhuman model could enhance translatability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldric Hama
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research Inc., Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Mizuho Yano
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research Inc., Hamamatsu, Japan
| | | | | | - Yuji Awaga
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research Inc., Hamamatsu, Japan
| | | | - Ikuo Hayashi
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research USA, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
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Bipolar dual-lead spinal cord stimulation between two electrodes on the ventral and dorsal sides of the spinal cord: consideration of putative mechanisms. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2018; 160:639-643. [PMID: 29224084 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-017-3421-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We have applied bipolar dual-lead spinal cord stimulation (SCS) between two cylinder-type electrodes placed on the ventral and dorsal sides of the spinal cord (dual-VD-SCS). A 36-year-old man suffered from burning pain from his right elbow down to his hand after brachial plexus avulsion. The areas with paresthesia induced by conventional SCS did not include the painful hand area. However, dual-VD-SCS completely induced paresthesia in the painful hand area. We speculate that dual-VD-SCS can be applied to stimulate deeper sites of the dorsal column and dorsal horn than conventional SCS and is useful for pain reduction.
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Efficacy and factors determining the outcome of dorsal root entry zone lesioning procedure (DREZotomy) in the treatment of intractable pain syndrome. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2017; 159:2431-2442. [PMID: 28993994 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-017-3345-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain is a disabling condition that adversely affects patient quality of life. The dorsal root entry zone lesioning procedure (DREZotomy) is a modality used to treat intractable pain caused by insults to neural structures. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of and the factors that determine the outcome of microsurgical DREZotomy (MDT). METHOD All consecutive patients who underwent MDT for treatment of intractable pain during September 2008 to December 2016 were enrolled. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS The 40 included patients underwent MDT for relief of intractable pain caused by 27 brachial plexus injuries (BPIs), 6 spinal cord injuries, 3 neoplasms, and 4 other causes. A significant reduction in pain was observed post-MDT for both average (p < 0.001) and maximal pain (p < 0.001). Favorable outcome (≥50% pain reduction) was observed in 67.5% of patients, with the best outcome in BPI-related pain. In multivariate analysis, injury of the spinal nerve root (root avulsion or injury) was significantly associated with good average pain relief (OR, 5.8; 95% CI, 1.2-27.5; p = 0.026) and pain freedom (OR, 5.0; 95% CI, 1.12-22.30; p = 0.035). Electrical pain (OR, 6.49; 95% CI, 1.20-35.19; p = 0.030) and lower number of painful dermatomes (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.01-1.67; p = 0.039) were significantly associated with good maximal pain relief. CONCLUSIONS MDT is an effective procedure for treatment of intractable pain in well-selected patients, particularly in cases with brachial plexus avulsion pain. Injury of the spinal nerve root (brachial plexus avulsion and cauda equina injury) was associated with good average pain relief and pain freedom, and electrical pain and lower number of painful dermatomes were associated with good maximal pain relief. The results are useful in the selection of candidates for DREZotomy and prediction of surgical outcome.
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Abstract
Acute pain management is improving steadily over the past few years, but training and professional education are still lacking in many professions. Untreated or undertreated acute pain could have detrimental effects on the patient in terms of comfort and recovery from trauma or surgery. Acute undertreated pain can decrease a patient's vascular perfusion, increase oxygen demand, suppress the immune system, and possibly risk increased incidence of venous thrombosis. Although acute postoperative pain needs to be managed aggressively, patients are most vulnerable during this period for developing adverse effects, and therefore, patient assessment and careful drug therapy evaluation are necessary processes in therapeutic planning. Acute pain management requires careful and thorough initial assessment and follow-up reassessment in addition to frequent dosage adjustments, and managing analgesic induced side effects. Analgesic selection and dosing must be based on the patient's past and recent analgesic exposure. There is no single acute pain management regimen that is suitable for all patients. Analgesics must be tailored to the individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. S. Koo
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Services, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Teixeira MJ, da Paz MGDS, Bina MT, Santos SN, Raicher I, Galhardoni R, Fernandes DT, Yeng LT, Baptista AF, de Andrade DC. Neuropathic pain after brachial plexus avulsion--central and peripheral mechanisms. BMC Neurol 2015; 15:73. [PMID: 25935556 PMCID: PMC4429458 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-015-0329-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
REVIEW The pain that commonly occurs after brachial plexus avulsion poses an additional burden on the quality of life of patients already impaired by motor, sensory and autonomic deficits. Evidence-based treatments for the pain associated with brachial plexus avulsion are scarce, thus frequently leaving the condition refractory to treatment with the standard methods used to manage neuropathic pain. Unfortunately, little is known about the pathophysiology of brachial plexus avulsion. Available evidence indicates that besides primary nerve root injury, central lesions related to the abrupt disconnection of nerve roots from the spinal cord may play an important role in the genesis of neuropathic pain in these patients and may explain in part its refractoriness to treatment. CONCLUSIONS The understanding of both central and peripheral mechanisms that contribute to the development of pain is of major importance in order to propose more effective treatments for brachial plexus avulsion-related pain. This review focuses on the current understanding about the occurrence of neuropathic pain in these patients and the role played by peripheral and central mechanisms that provides insights into its treatment. Pain after brachial plexus avulsion involves both peripheral and central components; thereby it is characterized as a mixed (central and peripheral) neuropathic pain syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoel Jacobsen Teixeira
- Pain Center, Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Pain Center, Instituto do Câncer de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Service of Interdisciplinary Neuromodulation (SIN), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Mauro Tupiniquim Bina
- Functional Electrostimulation Laboratory, Federal University of Bahia, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Irina Raicher
- Pain Center, Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Pain Center, Instituto do Câncer de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Galhardoni
- Pain Center, Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Service of Interdisciplinary Neuromodulation (SIN), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Lin T Yeng
- Pain Center, Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Centro de Dor, Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Abrahão F Baptista
- Functional Electrostimulation Laboratory, Federal University of Bahia, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Daniel Ciampi de Andrade
- Pain Center, Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Pain Center, Instituto do Câncer de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Service of Interdisciplinary Neuromodulation (SIN), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Divisão de Clínica Neurocirúrgica do Hospital das Clínicas da FMUSP, Secretaria da Neurologia, Instituto Central, Av. Dr. Enéas de Carvalho Aguiar, 255, 5° andar, sala 5084 - Cerqueira César, 05403-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Cibert-Goton V, Phillips JP, Shortland PJ. Vascular changes associated with spinal root avulsion injury. Somatosens Mot Res 2015; 32:158-62. [PMID: 25901469 DOI: 10.3109/08990220.2015.1018511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
This paper has investigated the hypothesis that spinal root avulsion (SRA) injury produces alterations in blood flow that contribute to avulsion injury induced pain-like behaviour in rodents. Photoplethysmography (PPG) is an established way of assessing blood flow in the central nervous system (CNS) and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) is the most widely used technique for measuring tissue perfusion. Using an established model of SRA injury that produces mechanical hypersensitivity, the PPG and LDF signals were recorded in animals 2 weeks post-injury and compared to naive recordings. PPG and LDF measurements were assessed on the ipsilateral and contralateral sides of the spinal cord rostral and caudal to the avulsion injury and at the level of the injury. Two weeks after injury, a time when vascular blood vessel endothelial markers are known to be decreased, no significant changes were seen in the spinal cord blood flow (SCBF) above, at, or below the injury site or when comparing the ipsilateral vs. contralateral side. Assessment of oxygenation levels again revealed no significant differences between naive and spinal root injured animals along the rostrocaudal axis (i.e., above, at, and below the site of injury or its equivalent on the contralateral side). From these experiments it is concluded that SRA does not significantly alter blood flow or tissue oxygen levels and so ischemia may play a less prominent role in avulsion injury induced pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Cibert-Goton
- a Centre for Neuroscience & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK
| | - Justin P Phillips
- b School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, City University , London , UK , and
| | - Peter J Shortland
- a Centre for Neuroscience & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK .,c School of Science & Health, University of Western Sydney , Australia
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Chivukula S, Tempel ZJ, Chen CJ, Shin SS, Gande AV, Moossy JJ. Spinal and Nucleus Caudalis Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning for Chronic Pain: Efficacy and Outcomes. World Neurosurg 2015; 84:494-504. [PMID: 25900792 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2015.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2014] [Revised: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role for nucleus caudalis (NC) and spinal dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning in the management of chronic pain emanating from increased electrical activity in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord and brainstem remains largely uncharted. METHODS All patients who underwent NC and spinal DREZ lesioning by a single surgeon were identified and follow-up was obtained by telephone questionnaires. Patient demographics, surgical details, outcomes, and complications were critically reviewed for all patients identified. RESULTS Of 83 patients identified, 53 (63.9%) were male. Indications for NC DREZ lesioning included trigeminal neuropathic pain (6), trigeminal deafferentation pain (3), glossopharyngeal or occipital neuralgia (3), post-herpetic neuralgia (3), and trauma (1); for spinal DREZ lesioning, indications included brachial plexus avulsion (20), post-herpetic neuralgia (19), spinal cord injury (11), phantom limb pain (8), pelvic pain (5), and complex regional pain syndrome (4). Pain relief was most significant among patients with trigeminal pain, traumatic brachial plexus avulsion injuries, spinal cord injury, and traumatic phantom limb pain. Mean pain reduction averaged 58.3% at a mean follow-up of 8.3 years. Complications included 3 cases of paresis, 3 cases of neuropathy/radiculopathy, 2 cases of ataxia, 3 general medical conditions (colitis, 2; atelectasis, 1), and 2 cases of persistent incisional site pain. Pain relief lasted an average of 4.3 years. CONCLUSIONS Spinal and NC DREZ lesioning can provide effective relief in well-selected patients with intractable chronic pain conditions arising from trigeminal pain, spinal cord injury, brachial plexus avulsions, post-herpetic neuralgia, and phantom limb pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Chivukula
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles Health System, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Zachary J Tempel
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ching-Jen Chen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Samuel S Shin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Abhiram V Gande
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - John J Moossy
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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19
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Anatomy of the spinal dorsal root entry zone: its clinical significance. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2014; 156:2351-8. [PMID: 25331322 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-014-2252-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/03/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The posterolateral sulcus (PLS) is an important surgical landmark, especially for DREZ (dorsal root entry zone) operations. METHODS The present study aimed to show the variations of the PLS using human spinal cord histological sections and report the variability in the number of dorsal rootlets of the spinal nerves in each the spinal cord segment. Further, measure the height and width of the dorsal horn on histological sections for cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels. RESULTS The results of the present study showed various patterns of PLS 1.clearly present PLS, 2. short PLS, 3. absent PLS or 4. irregular PLS. Height and width measurements of the dorsal horn showed that the average width was greatest at lower cervical (0.48 ± 0.04 mm) and least at lower thoracic levels (0.41 ± 0.04 mm), whereas the average height was greatest at upper cervical (3.0 ± 0.06 mm) and smallest at lower lumbar levels (1.8 ± 0.08 mm). The average number of rootlets varied considerably, at cervical level it was 7.6 ± 1.4 mm, at thoracic 6.6 ± 0.8 mm and at lumbar 6.1 ± 0.4 mm. CONCLUSIONS The detailed anatomy of the variations of the PLS and the average number of rootlets at each spinal level can increase the success of regional surgery. Further, fine measurements on histological sections can give detailed knowledge on the size necessary for lesioning in DREZ operations.
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20
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Abstract
Motor cortex stimulation produces significant relief of symptoms in many forms of refractory chronic pain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Ostergard
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Charles Munyon
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jonathan P Miller
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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21
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Chew DJ, Carlstedt T, Shortland PJ. The effects of minocycline or riluzole treatment on spinal root avulsion-induced pain in adult rats. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2014; 15:664-75. [PMID: 24667712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2014.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Spinal root avulsion produces tactile and thermal hypersensitivity, neurodegeneration, and microglial and astrocyte activation in both the deafferented and the adjacent intact spinal cord segments. Following avulsion of the fifth lumbar spinal root, immediate and prolonged treatment with riluzole or minocycline for 2 weeks altered the development of behavioral hypersensitivity. Riluzole delayed the onset of thermal and tactile hypersensitivity and partially reversed established pain behavior. Minocycline effectively prevented and reversed both types of behavioral change. Histologic analysis revealed that both drugs reduced microglial staining in the spinal cord, with minocycline being more effective than riluzole. Astrocyte activation was ameliorated to a lesser extent. Surprisingly, neither drug provided a neuroprotective effect on avulsed motoneurons. PERSPECTIVE Immediate treatment of spinal root avulsion injuries with minocycline or riluzole prevents the onset of evoked pain hypersensitivity by reducing microglial cell activation. When treatment is delayed, minocycline, but not riluzole, reverses pre-established hypersensitivity. Thus, these drugs may provide a new translational treatment option for chronic avulsion injury pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Chew
- Centre for Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Thomas Carlstedt
- Peripheral Nerve Injury Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J Shortland
- Centre for Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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22
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Chew DJ, Murrell K, Carlstedt T, Shortland PJ. Segmental spinal root avulsion in the adult rat: a model to study avulsion injury pain. J Neurotrauma 2013; 30:160-72. [PMID: 22934818 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2012.2481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Road traffic accidents are the most common cause of avulsion injury, in which spinal roots are torn from the spinal cord. Patients suffer from a loss of sensorimotor function, intractable spontaneous pain, and border-zone hypersensitivity. The neuropathic pains are particularly difficult to treat because the lack of a well-established animal model of avulsion injury prevents identifying the underlying mechanisms and hinders the development of efficacious drugs. This article describes a hindlimb model of avulsion injury in adult rats where the L5 dorsal and ventral spinal root are unilaterally avulsed (spinal root avulsion [SRA]), leaving the adjacent L4 spinal root intact. SRA produced a significant ipsilateral hypersensitivity to mechanical and thermal stimulation by 5 days compared with sham-operated or naïve rats. This hypersensitivity is maintained for up to 60 days. No autotomy was observed and locomotor deficits were minimal. The hypersensitivity to peripheral stimuli could be temporarily ameliorated by administration of amitriptyline and carbamazepine, drugs that are currently prescribed to avulsion patients. Histological assessment of the L4 ganglion cells revealed no significant alterations in calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), IB4, transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TrpV1), or N52 staining across groups. Immunohistochemistry of the spinal cord revealed a localized glial response, phagocyte infiltration, and neuronal loss within the ipsilateral avulsed segment. A comparable response from glia and phagocytes was also found in the intact L4 spinal cord, supporting the role for central mechanisms within the L4-5 spinal cord in contributing to the generation of the pain-related behavior. The SRA model provides a platform to investigate possible new pharmacological treatments for avulsion injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Chew
- Centre for Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Newark Street, London, United Kingdom.
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Gadgil N, Viswanathan A. DREZotomy in the treatment of cancer pain: a review. Stereotact Funct Neurosurg 2012; 90:356-60. [PMID: 22922361 DOI: 10.1159/000341072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-related pain is a common problem that may be intractable by medical and neuromodulatory treatment. The dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) is a hyperactive focus in neuropathic pain syndromes, and DREZotomy has been used in selective cases of neuropathic cancer pain. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the technique of spinal DREZotomy in the treatment of cancer pain and review the relevant published literature. METHODS A PubMed database search for 'DREZ', 'dorsal root entry zone' and 'cancer', and a search of the references of these manuscripts, was undertaken. RESULTS 14 papers were identified and reviewed that described a total of 123 patients with cancer pain or radiation-induced pain who have been treated with DREZotomy. Though heterogeneous, these studies reported an overall favorable outcome in carefully selected patients with topographically limited pain syndromes. CONCLUSION For patients with well-localized neuropathic cancer pain intractable to medical and first-line surgical management, DREZotomy is a viable treatment option. Further prospective studies are needed to evaluate the outcomes of this procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Gadgil
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Dong S, Hu Y, Du W, Tao W, Zhang X, Zhuang P, Li Y. Changes in Spontaneous Dorsal Horn Potentials after Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning in Patients with Pain after Brachial Plexus Avulsion. J Int Med Res 2012; 40:1499-506. [PMID: 22971502 DOI: 10.1177/147323001204000429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This study investigated spontaneous dorsal horn potentials in patients with pain after brachial plexus avulsion and determined the effect of dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning on these potentials and on pain levels. METHODS: Electrospinography (ESG) recordings were undertaken in seven patients using a noninvasive electrocorticography strip electrode. Measurements were taken from the DREZ on the intact side of the spinal cord before lesioning of the injured DREZ and from the injured DREZ before and after lesioning. RESULTS: DREZ lesioning had a significant positive effect on pain at 12 months postoperatively. At 15.0 Hz, the mean ESG power from the injured DREZ before lesioning was significantly higher than that from the intact DREZ. In addition, the mean ESG power from the injured DREZ after successful DREZ lesioning was significantly lower than that from the intact DREZ and that from the injured DREZ before lesioning. CONCLUSIONS: The ESG power from the injured DREZ increases in patients with pain after brachial plexus avulsion compared with that of the intact DREZ; this increase is reduced by successful DREZ lesioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dong
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ys Hu
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - W Du
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - W Tao
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xh Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - P Zhuang
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yj Li
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Ali M, Saitoh Y, Oshino S, Hosomi K, Kishima H, Morris S, Shibata M, Yoshimine T. Differential efficacy of electric motor cortex stimulation and lesioning of the dorsal root entry zone for continuous vs paroxysmal pain after brachial plexus avulsion. Neurosurgery 2012; 68:1252-7; discussion 1257-8. [PMID: 21307799 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0b013e31820c04a9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain after traumatic brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) has 2 distinct patterns: continuous burning pain and paroxysmal shooting pain. Lesioning of the dorsal root entry zone (DREZotomy) is more effective for paroxysmal than continuous pain. It is unknown, however, whether electric motor cortex stimulation (EMCS) has a differential effect on continuous vs paroxysmal BPA pain. OBJECTIVE To analyze the differential effect of EMCS and DREZotomy on continuous vs paroxysmal BPA pain in a series of 15 patients. METHODS Fifteen patients with intractable BPA pain underwent DREZotomy alone (n = 7), EMCS alone (n = 4), or both procedures (n = 4). Pain intensity was evaluated with the Visual Analog Scale, and separate ratings were recorded for paroxysmal and continuous pain. Pain relief was categorized as excellent (> 75% pain relief), good (50%-75%), or poor (< 50%). Favorable outcome was defined as good or better pain relief. RESULTS Eight patients had EMCS; 7 were followed up for an average of 47 months. Of those 7 patients, 3 (42%) with continuous pain had favorable outcomes compared with no patients with paroxysmal pain. Eleven patients had DREZotomy; 10 were followed up for an average of 31 months. Of those 10 patients, 7 (70%) with paroxysmal pain had favorable outcomes compared with 2 (20%) with continuous pain. CONCLUSION EMCS was ineffective for paroxysmal pain but moderately effective for continuous pain. DREZotomy was highly effective for paroxysmal pain but moderately effective for continuous pain. It may be prudent to use EMCS for residual continuous pain after DREZotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali
- Neurosurgery Department, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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26
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning for intractable pain currently requires a multi-level laminectomy for direct access to all spinal cord segments intended to be lesioned. The hypothesis is that a silastic rubber catheter can be inserted into the dorsal horn (through a single laminectomy site) and advanced down several spinal cord segments, while staying exclusively in the dorsal horn. METHODS A cervical laminectomy was performed in four sheep. Standard cerebrospinal fluid drainage catheters were introduced into the dorsal horn through a small incision in the DREZ. The catheters were advanced caudally along the longitudinal cord axis for a distance of 8-11 cm. Neurophysiological monitoring was done. The cord was excised from the spinal canal, fixed in formalin and cut in serial axial slices at 1 cm intervals to assess the position of the catheter within the spinal cord. RESULTS The catheter stayed within the grey column of the spinal cord dorsal horn, along the entire length of its insertion. Electrophysiological data confirmed that dorsal horn activity was totally ablated after catheter passage in three sheep, and partially ablated in the fourth. CONCLUSION The intrinsic architecture of the spinal cord tissue allows the predictable passage of the catheter through the column of dorsal horn grey matter. Dorsal horn lesioning can be accomplished without direct access to the cord segments selected for surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Spaic
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Dorsal root entry zone lesioning for pain after brachial plexus avulsion: Results with special emphasis on differential effects on the paroxysmal versus the continuous components. A prospective study in a 29-patient consecutive series. Pain 2011; 152:1923-1930. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2011.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2010] [Revised: 03/27/2011] [Accepted: 03/28/2011] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Fouad W. Management of generalized spasticity of lower limbs by selective posterior rhizotomy. ALEXANDRIA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajme.2011.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wael Fouad
- Alexandria Faculty of Medicine Neurosurgery Department Alexandria Egypt
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Surgery in the DREZ for Refractory Neuropathic Pain After Spinal Cord/Cauda Equina Injury. World Neurosurg 2011; 75:447-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2011.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Accepted: 01/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Kanpolat Y, Tuna H, Bozkurt M, Elhan AH. Spinal and Nucleus Caudalis Dorsal Root Entry Zone Operations for Chronic Pain. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown) 2008; 62:235-42; discussion 242-4. [DOI: 10.1227/01.neu.0000317398.93218.e0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective:
Dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) operations came into medical practice after the demonstration of increased electrical activity in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord and brainstem in patients with deafferentation of the central nervous system after injury to these areas. The aim of the study was to describe the technique and the effectiveness of spinal DREZ and nucleus caudalis (NC) DREZ operations, which may be the treatments of choice in unique chronic pain conditions that do not respond to medical therapy or any other surgical methods.
Methods:
Fifty-five patients (44 spinal, 11 NC DREZ) underwent 59 (48 spinal, 11 NC DREZ) operations. There were 44 men and 11 women with a mean age of 46.4 years (range, 24–74 yr). The mean follow-up period was 72 months (range, 6 mo–20 yr). Follow-up assessments were performed with clinical examination on the first day and in the sixth and twelfth months postoperatively. Patients' pain scores and Karnofsky Performance Scale scores were also evaluated pre- and postoperatively.
Results:
The initial success rates for spinal and NC DREZotomy procedures were 77 and 72.5%, respectively. In the spinal DREZotomy group, mortality occurred in one patient (2.2%). There were two cases of transient muscle weakness (4.4%) and two of cerebrospinal fluid fistulae (4.4%). In the NC DREZotomy group, mortality occurred in one patient (9%). There were two cases of transient ataxia (18%) and two of transient hemiparesis (18%).
Conclusion:
Spinal and trigeminal NC DREZ operations are effective in the treatment of intractable pain syndromes, especially in traumatic brachial plexus avulsions, segmental pain after spinal cord injury, postherpetic neuralgia, topographically limited cancer pain, and atypical facial pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucel Kanpolat
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hakan Tuna
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Melih Bozkurt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Atilla Halil Elhan
- Department of Biostatistics, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Sindou M, Mertens P, Maarrawi J, Kéravel Y. Neurochirurgia del dolore. Neurologia 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(07)70555-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
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Abstract
Defined more than one century ago, the concept of positive symptoms has become obsolete, except in the psychiatric domain. However, its relevance remains intact today when considering such pathophysiologies as neuropathic (phantom) pain, movement disorders, tinnitus, epilepsy, and psychiatric disorders. Beside their very different clinical characteristics, all these symptoms arise from a lesion in the nervous system. Furthermore, they are paradoxical in the sense that they correspond to a spontaneous hyperactivity of the injured functional system, concomitant to the usual deficits resulting from the lesion. Could these similarities reflect the existence of some common pathophysiological process? A peculiar electrophysiological property of thalamic cells is likely to be compatible with this hypothesis. A thalamic cell produces action potentials when depolarised by excitatory inputs. Conversely, its ability to produce action potentials is decreased or even completely suppressed when the same cell is hyperpolarized by inhibitory influences. However, depending on its level of hyperpolarization, this cell can also produce rhythmic paradoxical bursts of activity at low frequency (3-4 Hz). In this context, a lesion involving, for example, the somatosensory excitatory fibres gives rise to hyperpolarization of the corresponding thalamic cells, which may produce such rhythmic bursting activity. This causes an increase of low frequency thalamo-cortical activity, which, through reduction of collateral cortico-cortical inhibition, induces high frequency activity in neighbouring thalamo-cortical loops ("edge effect"). This leads to the appearance of the clinical symptoms, in this case, pain. Electrophysiological recordings performed in patients suffering from sensory or motor positive symptoms have shown the presence of such deleterious sequence of events. Furthermore, the efficiency of neurosurgical treatments that are used against some positive symptoms can be explained on the basis of such a dynamic process. Both considerations support the validity of the proposed hypothesis and open avenues for the control of other positive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Magnin
- Inserm-EMI 342, hôpital neurologique, 59, boulevard Pinel, Lyon 69003, France.
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33
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Sindou MP, Blondet E, Emery E, Mertens P. Microsurgical lesioning in the dorsal root entry zone for pain due to brachial plexus avulsion: a prospective series of 55 patients. J Neurosurg 2005; 102:1018-28. [PMID: 16028760 DOI: 10.3171/jns.2005.102.6.1018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Most patients with preganglionic lesions after brachial plexus injuries suffer pain that is hard to control through medication or neuromodulation. Lesioning in the dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) is undeniably effective. Fifty-five patients who had undergone the so-called microsurgical DREZotomy (MDT) procedure were studied with the two following objectives: 1) to describe the anatomical lesions observed during MDT in correlation with sensory deficits and pain features; and 2) to analyze the results in the 44 patients who were followed for more than 1 year (mean 6 years). METHODS The observed lesions were severe: 79.6% of ventral and 78.2% of dorsal roots from C5-T1 were impaired. Damage extended to all five roots in 42% of patients. Strong arachnoiditis was present in 38.2%, pseudomeningoceles in 31%, spinal cord distortion and/or atrophy in 49%, and abundant gliotic tissue and/or microcavitations within the dorsal horn at the avulsed segments in 36.4% of cases. Sensory deficit corresponded to the entire territory of the dorsal root lesions in 52% of patients, but was larger in 30% most certainly due to the associated extrarachidian lesions. At the last evaluation after MDT, 66% of patients showed excellent (total relief without medication) or good (total relief with medication) pain relief and 71% experienced an improvement in activity level. CONCLUSIONS Apart from other indications not addressed in this article, MDT can be performed to treat refractory pain due to brachial plexus avulsions. The long-term efficacy of this procedure strongly indicates that pain after brachial plexus avulsion originates from the deafferented (and gliotic) dorsal horn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc P Sindou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pierre Wertheimer Neurological Hospital, University of Lyon, France.
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Berman JS, Symonds C, Birch R. Efficacy of two cannabis based medicinal extracts for relief of central neuropathic pain from brachial plexus avulsion: results of a randomised controlled trial. Pain 2004; 112:299-306. [PMID: 15561385 DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2004.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2003] [Revised: 09/05/2004] [Accepted: 09/13/2004] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to investigate the effectiveness of cannabis-based medicines for treatment of chronic pain associated with brachial plexus root avulsion. This condition is an excellent human model of central neuropathic pain as it represents an unusually homogenous group in terms of anatomical location of injury, pain descriptions and patient demographics. Forty-eight patients with at least one avulsed root and baseline pain score of four or more on an 11-point ordinate scale participated in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, three period crossover study. All patients had intractable symptoms regardless of current analgesic therapy. Patients entered a baseline period of 2 weeks, followed by three, 2-week treatment periods during each of which they received one of three oromucosal spray preparations. These were placebo and two whole plant extracts of Cannabis sativa L.: GW-1000-02 (Sativex), containing Delta(9)tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):cannabidiol (CBD) in an approximate 1:1 ratio and GW-2000-02, containing primarily THC. The primary outcome measure was the mean pain severity score during the last 7 days of treatment. Secondary outcome measures included pain related quality of life assessments. The primary outcome measure failed to fall by the two points defined in our hypothesis. However, both this measure and measures of sleep showed statistically significant improvements. The study medications were generally well tolerated with the majority of adverse events, including intoxication type reactions, being mild to moderate in severity and resolving spontaneously. Studies of longer duration in neuropathic pain are required to confirm a clinically relevant, improvement in the treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan S Berman
- Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Brockley Hill, Stanmore, Middlesex HA7 4LP, UK GW Pharma Ltd, Porton Down Science Park, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, UK
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