Nonsurgical resource utilization in adult spinal deformity

Genetics and pathogenesis of scoliosis

Background

Scoliosis is defined as a lateral spine curvature of at least 10° with vertebral rotation, as seen on a posterior-anterior radiograph, often accompanied by reduced thoracic kyphosis. Scoliosis affects all age groups: idiopathic scoliosis is the most common spinal disorder in children and adolescents, while adult degenerative scoliosis typically affects individuals over fifty. In the United States, approximately 3 million new cases of scoliosis are diagnosed annually, with a predicted increase in part due to global aging. Despite its prevalence, the etiopathogenesis of scoliosis remains unclear.

Methods

This comprehensive review analyzes the literature on the etiopathogenetic evidence for both idiopathic and adult degenerative scoliosis. PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched for studies on the genetic factors and etiopathogenetic mechanisms of scoliosis development and progression, with the search limited to articles in English.

Results

For idiopathic scoliosis, genetic factors are categorized into three groups: genes associated with susceptibility, disease progression, and both. We identify gene groups related to different biological processes and explore multifaceted pathogenesis of idiopathic scoliosis, including evolutionary adaptations to bipedalism and developmental and homeostatic spinal aberrations. For adult degenerative scoliosis, we segregate genetic and pathogenic evidence into categories of angiogenesis and inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, neural associations, and hormonal influences. Finally, we compare findings in idiopathic scoliosis and adult degenerative scoliosis, discuss current limitations in scoliosis research, propose a new model for scoliosis etiopathogenesis, and highlight promising areas for future studies.

Conclusions

Scoliosis is a complex, multifaceted disease with largely enigmatic origins and mechanisms of progression, keeping it under continuous scientific scrutiny.

The societal burden associated with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a cross-sectional burden-of-disease study

BACKGROUND

In the general population the prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is 2-3%. There is growing awareness of how AIS affects the quality of life of patients. However, the extent of the societal burden AIS poses remains poorly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the societal burden of AIS.

METHODS

A cross-sectional burden of disease study was conducted using a bottom-up, prevalence-based approach. Patients with AIS or guardians of a child diagnosed with AIS residing in the Netherlands were eligible for inclusion. The survey was distributed between June - December 2022 and was completed once by each participant. Costs were assessed using the institute for Medical Technology Assessment - Medical Consumption and Productivity Cost Questionnaires. The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed using the EuroQol 5D-5L/EuroQol 5D Youth and the Scoliosis Research Society-22 revised questionnaires. Costs and HRQoL were identified, measured, and valued.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 229) were predominantly female (92%), on average 35 years old, and were employed (65%). The societal cost for a patient with AIS in the Netherlands was €12,275 per year. The largest costs were estimated for the healthcare and productivity losses. The mean utility score for adults was 0.7 (SD 0.20). Severe pain was experienced by 10% of the adult participants and 44% reported to experience moderate pain/discomfort. Statistically significant differences between different age groups were present for the sector costs and HRQoL.

CONCLUSIONS

AIS negatively impacts societal costs and the HRQoL. Reducing the burden that is posed on the productivity sector by AIS and further improving the HRQoL for AIS patients is needed.

In-silico techniques to inform and improve the personalized prescription of shoe insoles

Background: Corrective shoe insoles are prescribed for a range of foot deformities and are typically designed based on a subjective assessment limiting personalization and potentially leading to sub optimal treatment outcomes. The incorporation of in silico techniques in the design and customization of insoles may improve personalized correction and hence insole efficiency. Methods: We developed an in silico workflow for insole design and customization using a combination of measured motion capture, inverse musculoskeletal modelling as well as forward simulation approaches to predict the kinematic response to specific insole designs. The developed workflow was tested on twenty-seven participants containing a combination of healthy participants (7) and patients with flatfoot deformity (20). Results: Average error between measured and simulated kinematics were 4.7 ± 3.1, 4.5 ± 3.1, 2.3 ± 2.3, and 2.3 ± 2.7° for the chopart obliquity, chopart anterior-posterior axis, tarsometatarsal first ray, and tarsometatarsal fifth ray joints respectively. Discussion: The developed workflow offers distinct advantages to previous modeling workflows such as speed of use, use of more accessible data, use of only open-source software, and is highly automated. It provides a solid basis for future work on improving predictive accuracy by adapting the currently implemented insole model and incorporating additional data such as plantar pressure.

Identifying Subsets of Patients With Adult Spinal Deformity Who Maintained a Positive Response to Nonoperative Management

BACKGROUND

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) represents a major cause of disability in the elderly population in the United States. Surgical intervention has been shown to reduce disability and pain in properly indicated patients. However, there is a small subset of patients in whom nonoperative treatment is also able to durably maintain or improve symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the factors associated with successful nonoperative management in patients with ASD.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated a cohort of 207 patients with nonoperative ASD, stratified into 3 groups: (1) success, (2) no change, and (3) failure. Success was defined as a gain in minimal clinically importance difference in both Oswestry Disability Index and Scoliosis Research Society-Pain. Logistic regression model and conditional inference decision trees established cutoffs for success according to baseline (BL) frailty and sagittal vertical axis.

RESULTS

In our cohort, 44.9% of patients experienced successful nonoperative treatment, 22.7% exhibited no change, and 32.4% failed. Successful nonoperative patients at BL were significantly younger, had a lower body mass index, decreased Charlson Comorbidity Index, lower frailty scores, lower rates of hypertension, obesity, depression, and neurological dysfunction (all P < .05) and significantly higher rates of grade 0 deformity for all Schwab modifiers (all P < .05). Conditional inference decision tree analysis determined that patients with a BL ASD-frailty index ≤ 1.579 (odds ratio: 8.3 [4.0-17.5], P < .001) were significantly more likely to achieve nonoperative success.

CONCLUSION

Success of nonoperative treatment was more frequent among younger patients and those with less severe deformity and frailty at BL, with BL frailty the most important determinant factor. The factors presented here may be useful in informing preoperative discussion and clinical decision-making regarding treatment strategies.

The economic and societal burden associated with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A burden-of-disease study protocol

Background

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has an estimated general population prevalence of 2% to 3%. The impact of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) on the patients' experienced quality of life and psychological well-being and the resulting societal burden are increasingly recognized. However, there is limited knowledge on the economic burden of AIS. This cross-sectional, prevalence-based, bottom-up approach burden of disease study aims to determine the impact associated with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in terms of the cost-of-illness and health-related quality of life from a societal perspective in the Netherlands.

Methods

Persons diagnosed with AIS or parents of a child with AIS that are willing and able to answer the questionnaires will be eligible to participate. Patients will be included consecutively between June until January 2023. Costs and self-perceived health-related quality of life will be estimated using 3 steps: identification, measurement and valuation. To assess the costs associated with AIS the institute for Medical Technology Assessment - Medical Consumption Questionnaire and the institute for Medical Technology Assessment - Productivity Cost Questionnaire will be used. To assess the HRQoL of adult AIS patients the EuroQol 5-dimensions or EuroQol 5-dimensions Youth questionnaire for children under the age of 12 and the Scoliosis Research Society-22 revised questionnaire will be considered.

Discussion

This is the first study in this field. It will help raise awareness for AIS and wider support for both the patient community and informal care takers among healthcare professionals and policymakers. Major strengths of this study will be the use of mostly validated, standardized questionnaires. Limitations include the cross-sectional and retrospective nature of the study design.

The Differences Between Same-Day and Staged (Circumferential) Fusion Surgery in Adult Spinal Deformity: Protocol for a Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) is a deformity in the curvature of the adult spine. ASD includes a range of pathology that leads to decreased quality of life for patients as well as debilitating morbidities. Treatment can range from nonoperative management to long-segment surgical corrections and depends greatly on the deformity and patient profiles. If surgical treatment is indicated, circumferential (a combined anterior and posterior approach) fusion is one of the tools in the spine surgeon's armamentarium. Depending on the complexity, the procedure is either completed on the same day or staged. Determining whether to perform a circumferential surgery in a staged fashion is based largely on the surgeon's preference and perception of the individual case complexity; at present, there is no high-quality evidence that can be used to support that decision.

OBJECTIVE

This paper presents the protocol for a systematic review that aims to investigate the differences between same-day versus staged circumferential fusion surgery in ASD both in patient selection and in outcomes.

METHODS

Searches will be performed on MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus. Gray literature and the reference lists of articles included in the full-text screening will also be screened for inclusion. Results will be exported to Covidence. Data will be collected on demographics, type of procedures performed, surgery levels, blood loss, total operation time, length of stay, disposition, readmissions (30 days and 90 days), and perioperative complications. Patient-reported outcomes will also be assessed. Data quality assessment of randomized controlled trials will be performed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias in randomized trials, and nonrandomized studies will be assessed with the ROBINS-I (Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions) tool. All screening, quality assessment, and data extraction will be done by 2 independent reviewers. A descriptive synthesis will be performed, and data will be evaluated for further analysis.

RESULTS

This study is currently in the screening phase. There are no results yet. The search strategy has been developed and documented. Information has been exported to Covidence. Upon conclusion of the critical appraisal stage, screening and extraction, as well as a synthesis of the results, will be performed.

CONCLUSIONS

The intended review will summarize the differences in perioperative outcomes and complications between same-day and staged (circumferential) fusion surgery in adult spinal deformity. It will also describe the patients selected for such procedures based on their demographics and pathology. Identified gaps in knowledge will provide insight into current limitations and guide further studies on this topic.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022339764; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=339764.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/42331.

Ability of Visual Analogue Scale to predict Oswestry Disability Index improvement and surgical treatment decision in patients with adult spinal deformity

Introduction

The effect of pain on HRQoL scores in ASD patients is not well studied. Disability is a major factor on decision and outcomes. On the other hand, little is known about the effect of perceived and reported pain on these parameters, especially in the elderly population. We hypothesized that baseline back and leg pain would not affect the treatment decision whereas may have a negative effect on outcomes.

Research question

To determine the correlation between preoperative ODI and VAS scores; and to identify the effect of baseline VAS score on treatment decision and ODI improvement following treatment.

Material and methods

In this retrospective study, patients with a follow-up duration of minimum 2 years were enrolled from a prospective multicentric ASD database. Pearson and Spearman correlation tests were used to evaluate the correlation between ODI and VAS scores; univariate binary logistic regression method was used to analyze the effect of VAS on treatment decision as well as the outcomes.

Results

1050 patients (mean age 48.2) were analyzed. Baseline ODI and back, leg pain VAS scores were significantly correlated (P ​< ​0.001). One unit increase in baseline back and leg pain VAS scores, increased the probability of improvement in ODI by 1.219 (P ​= ​0.016) and 1.182 times (P ​= ​0.029), respectively in surgically treated patients; and reduced it by 0.894 times (P ​= ​0.012) for conservatively treated patients. For patients >70 years old, one-unit increase in baseline leg pain VAS score increased the probability of deciding on surgical treatment by 1.121 times (p ​= ​0.016).

Discussion and conclusions

Preoperative back and leg pain VAS scores were found to be significantly correlated with the preoperative ODI scores. Additionally, preoperative baseline back and leg pain VAS scores were useful in predicting the improvement in disability as assessed by ODI. Another important finding was that, higher baseline leg pain (but not back pain) VAS scores increased the rate of elderly patients preferring surgical treatment.

Health-related quality of life measures in adult spinal deformity: can we replace the SRS-22 with PROMIS?

PURPOSE

To determine the validity and responsiveness of PROMIS metrics versus the SRS-22r questionnaire in adult spinal deformity (ASD).

METHODS

Surgical ASD patients undergoing ≥ 4 levels fused with complete baseline PROMIS and SRS-22r data were included. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) and test-retest reliability [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)] were compared. Cronbach's alpha and ICC values ≥ 0.70 were predefined as satisfactory. Convergent validity was evaluated via Spearman's correlations. Responsiveness was assessed via paired samples t tests with Cohen's d to assess measure of effect (baseline to 3 months).

RESULTS

One hundred and ten pts are included. Mean baseline SRS-22r score was 2.62 ± 0.67 (domains = Function: 2.6, Pain: 2.5, Self-image: 2.2, Mental Health: 3.0). Mean PROMIS domains = Physical Function (PF): 12.4, Pain Intensity (PI): 91.7, Pain Interference (Int): 55.9. Cronbach's alpha, and ICC were not satisfactory for any SRS-22 and PROMIS domains. PROMIS-Int reliability was low for all SRS-22 domains (0.037-0.225). Convergent validity demonstrated strong correlation via Spearman's rho between PROMIS-PI and overall SRS-22r (- 0.61), SRS-22 Function (- 0.781), and SRS-22 Pain (- 0.735). PROMIS-PF had strong correlation with SRS-22 Function (0.643), while PROMIS-Int had moderate correlation with SRS-22 Pain (- 0.507). Effect size via Cohen's d showed that PROMIS had superior responsiveness across all domains except for self-image.

CONCLUSIONS

PROMIS is a valid measure compared to SRS-22r in terms of convergent validity, and has greater measure of effect in terms of responsiveness, but failed in reliability and internal consistency. Surgeons should consider the lack of reliability and internal consistency (despite validity and responsiveness) of the PROMIS to SRS-22r before replacing the traditional questionnaire with the computer-adaptive testing.

Cost-Effectiveness of Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Review article.

OBJECTIVE

A review of the literature evaluating the cost-effectiveness of undergoing adult spinal deformity surgery and potential avenues for reducing costs.

METHODS

A review of the current literature and synthesis of data to provide an update on the cost effectiveness of undergoing adult spinal deformity surgery.

RESULTS

Compared with nonoperative management, operative management for adult spinal deformity is associated with improved patient-reported outcomes and quality of life; however, it is associated with significant financial and resource use.

CONCLUSION

Operative management for adult spinal deformity has been shown to be effective but is associated with significant cost and resource utilization. The optimal operative treatment is highly dependent on the patients' symptomatology and is surgeon dependent. Maximizing preoperative surgical health and minimizing postoperative complications are key measures in reducing the cost and resource utilization of adult spinal deformity surgery. Future studies are needed to evaluate how to optimize the cost-effectiveness.

Group-based Trajectory Modeling: A Novel Approach to Classifying Discriminative Functional Status Following Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery: Study of a 3-year Follow-up Group

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected database.

OBJECTIVE

To delineate and visualize trajectories of the functional status in surgically-treated adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Classifying long-term recovery following ASD surgery is not well defined.

METHODS

One thousand one hundred seventy-one surgically-treated patients with a minimum of 3-year follow-up were included. The group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) was used to identify distinct trajectories of functional status over time, measured by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Patient profiles were then compared according to the observed functional patterns.

RESULTS

The GBTM identified four distinct functional patterns. The first group (10.0%) started with minimal disability (ODI: 15 ± 10) and ended up almost disability-free (low-low). The fourth group (21.5%) began with high ODI (66 ± 11) and improvement was minimal (high-high). Groups two (40.1%) and three (28.4%) had moderate disability (ODI: 39 ± 11 vs. 49 ± 11, P < 0.001) before surgery. Following surgery, marked improvement was seen in group two (median-low), but deterioration/no change was observed in group three (median-high). The low-low group primarily included adult idiopathic scoliosis, while the high-high group had the oldest and the most severe patients as compared with the rest of the groups. A subgroup analysis was performed between groups two and three with propensity score matching on age, body mass index, baseline physical component score (PCS), and severity of deformity. Notably, the baseline mental status of the median-high group was significantly worse than that of the median-low group, though the differences in demographics, surgery, and deformity no longer existed.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with moderate-to-low disability are more likely to obtain better functional postoperative outcomes. Earlier surgical interventions should be considered to prevent progression of deformity, and to optimize favorable outcomes. Greatest improvement appears to occur in moderately disabled patients with good mental health. GBTM permits classification into distinct groups, which can help in surgical decision making and setting expectations regarding recovery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Cost-effectiveness of adult spinal deformity surgery in a military healthcare system

OBJECTIVEAdult spinal deformity surgery is an effective way of treating pain and disability, but little research has been done to evaluate the costs associated with changes in health outcome measures. This study determined the change in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and the cost per QALY in patients undergoing spinal deformity surgery in the unique environment of a military healthcare system (MHS).METHODSPatients were enrolled between 2011 and 2017. Patients were eligible to participate if they were undergoing a thoracolumbar spinal fusion spanning more than 6 levels to treat an underlying deformity. Patients completed the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) prior to surgery and 6 and 12 months after surgery. The authors used paired t-tests to compare SF-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS) scores between baseline and postsurgery. To estimate the cost per QALY of complex spine surgery in this population, the authors extended the change in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) between baseline and follow-up over 5 years. Data on the cost of surgery were obtained from the MHS and include all facility and physician costs.RESULTSHRQOL and surgical data were available for 49 of 91 eligible patients. Thirty-one patients met additional criteria allowing for cost-effectiveness analysis. Over 12 months, patients demonstrated significant improvement (p < 0.01) in SF-36 PCS scores. A majority of patients met the minimum clinically important difference (MCID; 83.7%) and substantive clinical benefit threshold (SCBT; 83.7%). The average change in QALY was an increase of 0.08. Extended across 5 years, including the 3.5% discounting per year, study participants increased their QALYs by 0.39, resulting in an average cost per QALY of $181,649.20. Nineteen percent of patients met the < $100,000/QALY threshold with half of the patients meeting the < $100,000/QALY mark by 10 years. A sensitivity analysis showed that patients who scored below 60 on their preoperative SF-36 PCS had an average increase in QALYs of 0.10 per year or 0.47 over 5 years.CONCLUSIONSWith a 5-year extended analysis, patients who receive spinal deformity surgery in the MHS increased their QALYs by 0.39, with 19% of patients meeting the $100,000/QALY threshold. The majority of patients met the threshold for MCID and SCBT at 1 year postoperatively. Consideration of preoperative functional status (SF-36 PCS score < 60) may be an important factor in determining which patients benefit the most from spinal deformity surgery.

Surgical correction of severe adult lumbar scoliosis (major curves ≥ 75°): retrospective analysis with minimum 2-year follow-up

OBJECTIVE

Prior reports have demonstrated the efficacy of surgical correction for adult lumbar scoliosis. Many of these reports focused on mild to moderate scoliosis. The authors' objective was to report their experience and to assess outcomes and complications after deformity correction for severe adult scoliosis.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed consecutive adult scoliosis patients with major thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) curves ≥ 75° who underwent deformity correction at their institution. Those eligible with a minimum 2 years of follow-up were included. Demographic, surgical, coronal and sagittal plane radiographic measurements, and health-related quality of life (HRQL) scores were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 26 potentially eligible patients, 22 (85%) had a minimum 2 years of follow-up (range 24-89 months) and were included in the study (mean age 57 ± 11 years; 91% women). The cohort comprised 16 (73%), 4 (18%), and 2 (9%) patients with adult idiopathic scoliosis, de novo degenerative scoliosis, and iatrogenic scoliosis, respectively. The surgical approach was posterior-only and multistage anterior-posterior in 18 (82%) and 4 (18%) patients, respectively. Three-column osteotomy was performed in 5 (23%) patients. Transforaminal and anterior lumbar interbody fusion were performed in 14 (64%) and 4 (18%) patients, respectively. All patients had sacropelvic fixation with uppermost instrumented vertebra in the lower thoracic spine (46% [10/22]) versus upper thoracic spine (55% [12/22]). The mean fusion length was 14 ± 3 levels. Preoperative major TL/L and lumbosacral fractional (L4-S1) curves were corrected from 83° ± 8° to 28° ± 13° (p < 0.001) and 34° ± 8° to 13° ± 6° (p < 0.001), respectively. Global coronal and sagittal balance significantly improved from 5 ± 4 cm to 1 ± 1 cm (p = 0.001) and 9 ± 8 cm to 2 ± 3 cm (p < 0.001), respectively. Pelvic tilt significantly improved from 33° ± 9° to 23° ± 10° (p < 0.001). Significant improvement in HRQL measures included the following: Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) pain score (p = 0.009), SRS appearance score (p = 0.004), and SF-12/SF-36 physical component summary (PCS) score (p = 0.026). Transient and persistent neurological deficits occurred in 8 (36%) and 2 (9%) patients, respectively. Rod fracture/pseudarthrosis occurred in 6 (27%) patients (supplemental rods were utilized more recently in 23%). Revisions were performed in 7 (32%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this single-center surgical series for severe adult scoliosis (major curves ≥ 75°), a posterior-only or multistage anterior-posterior approach provided major curve correction of 66% and significant improvements in global coronal and sagittal spinopelvic alignment. Significant improvements were also demonstrated in HRQL measures (SRS pain, SRS appearance, and SF-12/SF-36 PCS). Complications and revisions were comparable to those of other reports involving less severe scoliosis. The results of this study warrant future prospective multicenter studies to further delineate outcomes and complication risks for severe adult scoliosis correction.

[What is actually adult spinal deformity? : Development, classification, and indications for surgical treatment]

BACKGROUND

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) is a complex entity that has had emerging significance for spine surgeons in the last decade. Sagittal and/or coronary deformities can have a high impact (disability, pain) on the quality of patients' life. Radiologic diagnostics determine the common spinopelvic parameters as the basis for classification of ASD.

TREATMENT

Conservative treatment options may be sufficient in mild cases. The deformity's complexity frequently demands the entire spectrum of methods and techniques in spinal surgery. This article gives an overview on the development of the ASD, the correct classification as well as the indication for surgical therapy.

Opioids and analgesics use after adult spinal deformity surgery correlates with sagittal alignment and preoperative analgesic pattern

PURPOSE

To assess pain, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores and sagittal parameters of adult spinal deformity (ASD)-operated patients in the context of their analgesic consumption especially opioids (narcotics) over the first year postoperative period.

METHODS

In total, 372 patients from a multicenter database were stratified into 3 groups at baseline: 241 patients in the minimal group (no analgesic, or NSAIDs/narcotics weekly or less), 64 in the NSAIDs every day group and 67 in the narcotics every day group. HRQOL and back and leg pain scores were evaluated at 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Also several sagittal alignment parameters were assessed.

RESULTS

Significant improvements in pain and HRQOL scores were observed across all 3 groups by 1 year (P < 0.05) postoperatively. While the minimal group had the best pre- and postoperative HRQOL scores, the NSAID group demonstrated the best improvement in HRQOL. Only the minimal group displayed continued improvement from 6 months to 1 year. 90%, 65% and 40% of minimal, NSAID and narcotic groups of patients, respectively, no longer took any analgesics at 1 year postoperatively. Alternatively, 36% of patients in the narcotics group continued to take narcotics at 1 year. Residual malalignment increased NSAIDs consumption in different groups at 1 year.

CONCLUSION

This study evaluated the analgesics use after ASD surgery in relation to the clinical and radiological outcomes. Despite important postoperative opioids consumption in the narcotics group, clinical outcome yet improved. Malalignment parameters demonstrated a predictive value in regard to NSAIDs' usage. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Factors influencing patient satisfaction after adult scoliosis and spinal deformity surgery

OBJECTIVE

Achieving high patient satisfaction with management is often one of the goals after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. However, literature on associated factors and their correlations with patient satisfaction is limited. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and radiographic factors independently correlated with patient satisfaction in terms of management at 2 years after surgery.

METHODS

A multicenter prospective database of ASD surgery was retrospectively reviewed. The demographics, complications, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) subdomains, and radiographic parameters were examined to determine their correlation coefficients with the Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire (SRS-22R) satisfaction scores at 2 years (Sat-2y score). Subsequently, factors determined to be independently associated with low satisfaction (Sat-2y score ≤ 4.0) were used to construct 2 types of multivariate models: one with 2-year data and the other with improvement (score at 2 years - score at baseline) data.

RESULTS

A total of 422 patients who underwent ASD surgery (mean age 53.1 years) were enrolled. All HRQOL subdomains and several coronal and sagittal radiographic parameters had significantly improved 2 years after surgery. The Sat-2y score was strongly correlated with the SRS-22R self-image (SI)/appearance subdomain (r = 0.64), followed by moderate correlation with subdomains related to standing (r = 0.53), body pain (r = 0.49-0.55), and function (r = 0.41-0.55) at 2 years. Conversely, the correlation between radiographic or demographic parameters with Sat-2y score was weak (r < 0.4). Multivariate analysis to eliminate confounding factors revealed that a worse Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score for standing (≥ 2 points; OR 4.48) and pain intensity (≥ 2 points; OR 2.07), SRS-22R SI/appearance subdomain (< 3 points; OR 2.70) at 2 years, and a greater sagittal vertical axis (SVA) (> 5 cm; OR 2.68) at 2 years were independent related factors for low satisfaction. According to the other model, a lower improvement in ODI for standing (< 30%; OR 2.68), SRS-22R pain (< 50%; OR 3.25) and SI/appearance (< 50%; OR 2.18) subdomains, and an inadequate restoration of the SVA from baseline (< 2 cm; OR 3.16) were associated with low satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-image, pain, standing difficulty, and sagittal alignment restoration may be useful goals in improving patient satisfaction with management at 2 years after ASD surgery. Surgeons and other medical providers have to take care of these factors to prevent low satisfaction.

Adult Spinal Deformity Over 70 Years of Age: A 2-Year Follow-Up Study

Background

Treatment of adult spinal deformity (ASD) in elderly patients remains controversial. The aim of this study was to identify the factors leading to the surgical treatment by comparing the baseline characteristics of operative versus nonoperative patients, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of surgery, and to compare operative and nonoperative management of elderly ASD patients at the end of the 2-year follow-up period.

Methods

Retrospective review of a multicenter, prospective ASD database was performed. Patients over 70 years of age with ASD who were scheduled to undergo surgical treatment and who were treated and/or followed without surgical intervention participated in the study. Demographic, clinical, surgical, and radiological characteristics and health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) (Core Outcome Measures Index [COMI], Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], Short-Form-36 Mental Component Summary [SF-36 MCS], Short-Form-36 Physical Component Summary [SF36-PCS], and Scoliosis Research Society-22 [SRS-22]) parameters of such group of patients were evaluated pre- and posttreatment.

Results

A total 90 patients (females: 71, males: 29; operative: 61, nonoperative: 29) made up the study group. The comparison between the operative and the nonoperative groups at baseline showed statistical significance for all the HRQOL parameters and the major coronal Cobb angle (P < .05). The calculated optimal cutoff values to diverge operative and nonoperative groups for COMI, ODI, SF-36 PCS, and SRS-22 were 5.7, 37.0, 37.5, and 3.2, respectively (P < .05). All operative patients were treated with posterior surgery. Overall, 135 complications (71 major, 64 minor) and 1 death were observed. Surgically treated patients were found to be improved both clinically and in HRQOL parameters 2 years after surgery for all HRQOL parameters except SF-36 MCS, even in the presence of complications (P < .05), while nonoperative patients have not changed or deteriorated at the end of 2 years.

Conclusions

Despite a relatively high incidence of complications, the likelihood of achieving a clinically significant and relevant HRQOL improvement was superior for patients who were treated surgically in the present population.

Adult spinal deformity surgical decision-making score. Part 2: development and validation of a scoring system to guide the selection of treatment modalities for patients above 40 years with adult spinal deformity

PURPOSE

We aimed to develop and internally validate a scoring system, the adult spinal deformity surgical decision-making (ASD-SDM) score, to guide the decision-making process for ASD patients aged above 40 years.

METHODS

A multicentre prospective ASD database was retrospectively reviewed. The scoring system was developed using data from a derivation set and was internally validated in a validation set. The performance of the ASD-SDM score for predicting surgical management was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

RESULTS

A total of 702 patients were included for analysis in the present study. The scoring system developed based on 562 patients, ranging from 0 to 12 points, included five parameters: leg pain scored by the numerical rating scale; pain and self-image domains in the Scoliosis Research Society-22 score; coronal Cobb angle; and relative spinopelvic alignment. Surgical indication was graded as low (score 0 to 4), moderate (score 5 to 7), and high (score 8 to 12) groups. In the validation set of 140 patients, the AUC for predicting surgical management according to the ASD-SDM score was 0.797 (standard error = 0.037, P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval = 0.714 to 0.861), and in the low, moderate, and high surgical indication groups, 23.7%, 43.5%, and 80.4% of the patients, respectively, were treated surgically.

CONCLUSIONS

The ASD-SDM score demonstrated reliability, with higher scores indicating a higher probability of surgery. This index could aid in the selection of surgery for ASD patients in clinical settings. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Estimating a price point for cost-benefit of bone morphogenetic protein in pseudarthrosis prevention for adult spinal deformity surgery

OBJECTIVE

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is associated with reduced rates of pseudarthrosis and has the potential to decrease the need for revision surgery. There are limited data evaluating the cost-benefit of BMP for pseudarthrosis-related prevention surgery in adult spinal deformity.

METHODS

The authors performed a single-center retrospective review of 200 consecutive patients with adult spinal deformity. Demographic data and costs of BMP, primary surgery, and revision surgery for pseudarthrosis were collected. Patients with less than 12 months of follow-up or with infection, tumor, or neuromuscular disease were excluded.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-one patients (107 [71%] women) with a mean age of 65 years met the inclusion criteria. The mean number of levels fused was 10; BMP was used in 98 cases (65%), and the mean follow-up was 23 months. Fifteen patients (10%) underwent surgical revision for pseudarthrosis; BMP use was associated with an 11% absolute risk reduction in the rate of reoperation (17% vs 6%, p = 0.033), with a number needed to treat of 9.2. There were no significant differences in age, sex, upper instrumented vertebra, or number of levels fused in patients who received BMP. In a multivariate model including age, sex, number of levels fused, and the upper instrumented vertebra, only BMP (OR 0.250, 95% CI 0.078-0.797; p = 0.019) was associated with revision surgery for pseudarthrosis. The mean direct cost of primary surgery was $87,653 ± $19,879, and the mean direct cost of BMP was $10,444 ± $4607. The mean direct cost of revision surgery was $52,153 ± $26,985. The authors independently varied the efficacy of BMP, cost of BMP, and cost of reoperation by ± 50%; only reductions in the cost of BMP resulted in a cost savings per 100 patients. Using these data, the authors estimated a price point of $5663 in order for BMP to be cost-neutral.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of BMP was associated with a significant reduction in the rates of revision surgery for pseudarthrosis. At its current price, the direct in-hospital costs for BMP exceed the costs associated with revision surgery; however, this likely underestimates the true value of BMP when considering the savings associated with reductions in rehabilitation, therapy, medication, and additional outpatient costs.

The prevalence of complications associated with lumbar and thoracic spinal deformity surgery in the elderly population: a meta-analysis

Background

The prevalence of spinal deformities increases with age, affecting between 30% and 68% of the elderly population (ages ≥65). The reported prevalence of complications associated with surgery for spinal deformities in this population ranges between 37% and 71%. Given the wide range of reported complication rates, the decision to perform surgery remains controversial.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane to identify studies reporting complications for spinal deformity surgery in the elderly population. Pooled prevalence estimates for individual complication types were calculated using the random-effects model.

Results

Of 5,586 articles, 14 met inclusion criteria. Fourteen complication types were reported, with at least 2 studies for each complication with the following pooled prevalence: reoperation (prevalence 19%; 95% CI, 9-36%; 107 patients); hardware failure (11%; 95% CI, 5-25%; 52 patients); infection (7%; 95% CI, 4-12%; 262 patients); pseudarthrosis (6%; 95% CI, 3-12%; 149 patients); radiculopathy (6%; 95% CI, 1-33%; 116 patients); cardiovascular event (5%; 95% CI, 1-32%; 121 patients); neurological deficit (5%; 95% CI, 2-15%; 248 patients); deep vein thrombosis (3%; 95% CI, 1-7%; 230 patients); pulmonary embolism (3%; 95% CI, 1-7%; 210 patients); pneumonia (3%; 95% CI, 1-11%; 210 patients); cerebrovascular or stroke event (2%; 95% CI, 0-9%; 85 patients); death (2%; 95% CI, 1-9%; 113 patients); myocardial infarction (2%; 95% CI, 1-6%; 210 patients); and postoperative hemorrhage (1%; 95% CI, 0-10%; 85 patients).

Conclusions

Most complication types following spinal deformity surgery in the elderly had prevalence point estimates of <6%, while all were at least ≤19%. Additional studies are needed to further explore composite prevalence estimates and prevalence associated with traditional surgical approaches as compared to minimally-invasive procedures in the elderly.

The prevalence of complications associated with lumbar and thoracic spinal deformity surgery in the elderly population: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of spinal deformities increases with age, affecting between 30% and 68% of the elderly population (ages ≥65). The reported prevalence of complications associated with surgery for spinal deformities in this population ranges between 37% and 71%. Given the wide range of reported complication rates, the decision to perform surgery remains controversial.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane to identify studies reporting complications for spinal deformity surgery in the elderly population. Pooled prevalence estimates for individual complication types were calculated using the random-effects model.

RESULTS

Of 5,586 articles, 14 met inclusion criteria. Fourteen complication types were reported, with at least 2 studies for each complication with the following pooled prevalence: reoperation (prevalence 19%; 95% CI, 9-36%; 107 patients); hardware failure (11%; 95% CI, 5-25%; 52 patients); infection (7%; 95% CI, 4-12%; 262 patients); pseudarthrosis (6%; 95% CI, 3-12%; 149 patients); radiculopathy (6%; 95% CI, 1-33%; 116 patients); cardiovascular event (5%; 95% CI, 1-32%; 121 patients); neurological deficit (5%; 95% CI, 2-15%; 248 patients); deep vein thrombosis (3%; 95% CI, 1-7%; 230 patients); pulmonary embolism (3%; 95% CI, 1-7%; 210 patients); pneumonia (3%; 95% CI, 1-11%; 210 patients); cerebrovascular or stroke event (2%; 95% CI, 0-9%; 85 patients); death (2%; 95% CI, 1-9%; 113 patients); myocardial infarction (2%; 95% CI, 1-6%; 210 patients); and postoperative hemorrhage (1%; 95% CI, 0-10%; 85 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

Most complication types following spinal deformity surgery in the elderly had prevalence point estimates of <6%, while all were at least ≤19%. Additional studies are needed to further explore composite prevalence estimates and prevalence associated with traditional surgical approaches as compared to minimally-invasive procedures in the elderly.

Adult spinal deformity surgical decision-making score : Part 1: development and validation of a scoring system to guide the selection of treatment modalities for patients below 40 years with adult spinal deformity

PURPOSE

We aimed to develop and internally validate a simple scoring system: the adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgical decision-making (ASD-SDM) score, which is specific to the decision-making process for ASD patients aged below 40 years.

METHODS

A multicentre prospective ASD database was retrospectively reviewed. The scoring system was developed using data from a derivation cohort and was internally validated in a validation cohort. The accuracy of the ASD-SDM score was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

RESULTS

A total of 316 patients were randomly divided into derivation (253 patients, 80%) and validation (63 patients, 20%) cohorts. A 10-point scoring system was created from four variables: self-image score in the Scoliosis Research Society-22 score, coronal Cobb angle, pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis mismatch, and relative spinopelvic alignment, and the surgical indication was graded into low (score 0-4), moderate (score 5-7), and high (score 8-10) surgical indication groups. In the validation cohort, the AUC for selecting surgical management according to the ASD-SDM score was 0.789 (SE 0.057, P < 0.001, 95% CI 0.655-0.880). The percentage of patients treated surgically were 21.1%, 55.0%, and 80.0% in the low, moderate, and high surgical indication groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The ASD-SDM score, to the best of our knowledge, is the first algorithm to guide the decision-making process for the ASD population and could be one of the indices for aiding the selection of treatment for ASD. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment for Adult Symptomatic Lumbar Scoliosis

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of operative compared with nonoperative treatment at initial presentation (no prior fusion) for adult lumbar scoliosis has not, to our knowledge, been evaluated in controlled trials. The goals of this study were to evaluate the effects of operative and nonoperative treatment and to assess the benefits of these treatments to help treating physicians determine whether patients are better managed operatively or nonoperatively.

METHODS

Patients with adult symptomatic lumbar scoliosis (aged 40 to 80 years, with a coronal Cobb angle measurement of ≥30° and an Oswestry Disability Index [ODI] score of ≥20 or Scoliosis Research Society [SRS]-22 score of ≤4.0) from 9 North American centers were enrolled in concurrent randomized or observational cohorts to evaluate operative versus nonoperative treatment. The primary outcomes were differences in the mean change from baseline in the SRS-22 subscore and ODI at 2-year follow-up. For the randomized cohort, the initial sample-size calculation estimated that 41 patients per group (82 total) would provide 80% power with alpha equal to 0.05, anticipating 10% loss to follow-up and 20% nonadherence in the nonoperative arm. However, an interim sample-size calculation estimated that 18 patients per group would be sufficient.

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients were enrolled in the randomized cohort: 30 in the operative group and 33 in the nonoperative group. Two hundred and twenty-three patients were enrolled in the observational cohort: 112 in the operative group and 111 in the nonoperative group. The intention-to-treat analysis of the randomized cohort found that, at 2 years of follow-up, outcomes did not differ between the groups. Nonadherence was high in the randomized cohort (64% nonoperative-to-operative crossover). In the as-treated analysis of the randomized cohort, operative treatment was associated with greater improvement at the 2-year follow-up in the SRS-22 subscore (adjusted mean difference, 0.7 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.5 to 1.0]) and in the ODI (adjusted mean difference, -16 [95% CI, -22 to -10]) (p < 0.001 for both). Surgery was also superior to nonoperative care in the observational cohort at 2 years after treatment on the basis of SRS-22 subscore and ODI outcomes (p < 0.001). In an overall responder analysis, more operative patients achieved improvement meeting or exceeding the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in the SRS-22 subscore (85.7% versus 38.7%; p < 0.001) and the ODI (77.4% versus 38.3%; p < 0.001). Thirty-four revision surgeries were performed in 24 (14%) of the operative patients.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of as-treated and MCID analyses, if a patient with adult symptomatic lumbar scoliosis is satisfied with current spine-related health, nonoperative treatment is advised, with the understanding that improvement is unlikely. If a patient is not satisfied with current spine health and expects improvement, surgery is preferred.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Reduction of Scheuermann's deformity and scoliosis using ScoliBrace and a scoliosis specific rehabilitation program: a case report

[Purpose] There is a paucity of high-quality data pertaining to the conservative management of adult spinal deformity, particularly Scheuermann's kyphosis. Long-term follow-up data for both treated and untreated Scheuermann's patients is also lacking. Given that changes in sagittal balance are associated with increased morbidity, and that these changes are increasingly prevalent in the spines of ageing populations, it is imperative that potential strategies aimed at reversing or minimizing this type of deformity are explored. As the number of elderly patients in developed countries increases, so does the need for a safe and effective non-surgical management option for patients with spinal deformity/sagittal imbalance. This case study details the influence of ScoliBrace rigid TSLO bracing in combination with a specific rehabilitation program in an adult patient with Kypho-scoliosis. [Participant and Methods] The authors describe a case involving the treatment of a 26-year-old male with Scheuermann's kyphosis and a lumbar scoliosis. The patient received 12 months of bracing with a supplemental exercise program. The patient was followed for a period of approximately 12 months. Patient progress was assessed using ODI, SRS-22r, NPRS, and radiographic Cobb angle measurements throughout treatment. [Results] The patient presented with an initial ODI score of 18/100, a SRS-22r score of 3.0, and an average NPRS score of 4/10. Initial Cobb angle measurements demonstrated a 79° thoracic kyphosis and a 30° (coronal plane) lumbar scoliosis. At the final assessment, the patient reported an ODI score of 6/100, an SRS-22r score of 3.91, and an average NPRS score of 0/10. The coronal plane Cobb angle measured 63°, and the thoracolumbar scoliosis had reduced to 25°. [Conclusion] The findings from this case study highlight that this type of brace in combination with exercise rehabilitation may be useful for reducing the magnitude of curves and reducing symptoms in patients presenting with adult kypho-scoliosis. Further investigation of this style of treatment is warranted in patients with sagittal plane imbalance.

Readmissions, Length of Stay, and Mortality After Primary Surgery for Adult Spinal Deformity: A 10-Year Danish Nationwide Cohort Study

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To report outcome after primary surgery for adult spinal deformity (ASD), and assess risk factors for extended length of stay (extLOS) and readmission within 90 days.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Complications after ASD surgery have been reported in 20% to 50% of patients. A few studies have focused on detailed information concerning postoperative morbidity.

METHODS

Patients >18 years undergoing primary instrumented surgery for ASD in Denmark in the period 2006 to 2016 were included. Patients were identified in the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR) using procedure codes for instrumented spine surgery combined with diagnosis of spinal deformity. Information on length of stay (LOS), readmissions, and mortality were retrieved from the DNPR. Medical records were reviewed for causes of extLOS (LOS >10 days) and readmission within 90 days after surgery. Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was calculated for all patients based on DNPR.

RESULTS

We included 892 patients. Median LOS was 8 days (interquartile range, IQR, 7-11). A total of 175 (28.0%) patients had extLOS; 81% because of "medically" related complications. Most common medically related reason (>50%) for extLOS was pain/mobilization difficulties. The 90-days readmission risk was 13.8%; 74.5% of readmissions were "medically" related, primarily opioid related side effects (18.2%), and pain/mobilization issues (15.2%); 25.5% of readmissions were "surgically" related and 16.7% of patients required revision surgery. Ninety-days mortality was 0.9%. Age groups 61 to 70 years, >70 years, CCI score 1 to 2 and CCI score ≥3 were associated with increased risk of extLOS (odds ratio, OR = 1.79, 2.01, 1.81, and 2.49, respectively). Age group >70 years and CCI score 1 to 2 were associated with increased risk of readmission (OR = 2.21 and 1.83).

CONCLUSION

Increasing age and comorbidity were associated with increased risk extLOS and readmission. Pain/mobilization difficulties were the most common postoperative complications. A future focus on early mobilization and pain management may improve outcome of ASD patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

The Influence of Diagnosis, Age, and Gender on Surgical Outcomes in Patients With Adult Spinal Deformity

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data from a multicentric database.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the clinical impact of diagnosis, age, and gender on treatment outcomes in surgically treated adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients.

METHODS

A total of 199 surgical patients with a minimum follow-up of 1 year were included and analyzed for baseline characteristics. Patients were separated into 2 groups based on improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) parameters by minimum clinically important difference. Statistics were used to analyze the effect of diagnosis, age, and gender on outcome measurements followed by a multivariate binary logistic regression model for these results with statistical significance.

RESULTS

Age was found to affect SF-36 PCS (Short From-36 Physical Component Summary) score significantly, with an odds ratio of 1.017 (unit by unit) of improving SF-36 PCS score on multivariate analysis (P < .05). The breaking point in age for this effect was 37.5 years (AUC = 58.0, P = .05). A diagnosis of idiopathic deformity would increase the probability of improvement in Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) by a factor of 0.219 and in SF-36 PCS by 0.581 times (P < .05). Gender was found not to have a significant effect on any of the HRQOL scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Age, along with a diagnosis of degenerative deformity, may have positive effects on the likelihood of improvement in SF-36 PCS (for age) and ODI (for diagnosis) in surgically treated patients with ASD and the breaking point of this effect may be earlier than generally anticipated. Gender does not seem to affect results. These may be important in patient counseling for the anticipated outcomes of surgery.

Outcomes of Operative and Nonoperative Treatment in Patients with Adult Spinal Deformity with a Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

More recent studies have focused on clinical outcomes of operative versus nonoperative treatment in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD). However, scientific support for ASD surgery is weak. We compared outcomes of operative and nonoperative treatment of ASD with minimum 2-year follow-up in a meta-analysis.

METHOD

MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, from the earliest available date of indexing through May 10, 2018, were searched for studies evaluating outcomes of operative and nonoperative treatment of ASD. Two authors performed data extraction independently. Any discrepancies were resolved by consensus.

RESULTS

Four comparative studies were identified. Postoperative back pain numeric rating scale and leg pain numeric rating scale scores were significantly lower with operative treatment compared with nonoperative treatment (P < 0.00001, weighted mean difference [WMD] = -2.76 [-3.45, -2.07] vs. P < 0.0001, WMD = -2.31 [-3.33, -1.28]). Postoperative Oswestry Disability Index and Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire scores were significantly better with operative treatment compared with nonoperative treatment (P < 0.00001, WMD = -10.96 [-13.56, -8.36] vs. P < 0.00001, WMD = 0.68 [0.48, 0.87]). The complication rate of operative treatment was 17%-71.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis showed that operative treatment has been demonstrated to significantly reduce disability and pain and to improve clinical outcomes compared with nonoperative treatment. Further large, multicenter, well-designed studies are necessary to substantiate our results.

Can bracing help adults with chronic back pain and scoliosis? Short-term results from a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Adult scoliosis is sometimes associated with back pain. Recently, the Peak^™ Scoliosis Brace was designed to alleviate pain in adult patients with scoliosis.

OBJECTIVES

To test the efficacy of the Peak Scoliosis Brace in reducing pain in adult scoliosis patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective experimental cohort study.

METHODS

A total of 20 adult females with back pain secondary to idiopathic scoliosis were included. Patients were evaluated at baseline immediately before starting bracing and after 1 month. The brace had to be worn for at least 2 h per day. The outcome measures used were Graphical Rating Scale, Roland-Morris Questionnaire, Core Outcome Measurement Index, and Oswestry Disability Index.

RESULTS

Worst pain, back pain, and leg pain significantly improved from 7.15 to 5.85, from 6.55 to 5.25, and from 5.65 to 3.55, respectively ( p < 0.05). A total of 75% of patients reported improved worst and leg pain, 65% improved back pain, 30% of patients achieved the minimal clinically significant difference of 2 points for worst pain, 60% for leg pain, and 25% for back pain. Roland-Morris Questionnaire and Core Outcome Measurement Index improved ( p < 0.05) and no differences were observed for Oswestry Disability Index.

CONCLUSION

The Peak Scoliosis Brace led to some improvement of pain at 1 month in a group of adult women with scoliosis and chronic low back pain. The quality of life did not change significantly. Clinical relevance According to our data, the Peak Brace is helpful to quickly improve pain in patients with chronic low back pain secondary to scoliosis. To achieve this goal, it should be applied for at least 2 h per day.

Long-term quality of life improvement for chronic intractable back and leg pain patients using spinal cord stimulation: 12-month results from the SENZA-RCT

Purpose

Chronic axial low-back pain is a debilitating disorder that impacts all aspects of an afflicted individual’s life. Effective, durable treatments have historically been elusive. Interventional therapies, such as spinal cord stimulation (SCS), have shown limited efficacy at best. Recently, a novel treatment, 10 kHz SCS, has demonstrated superior pain relief compared with traditional SCS in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). In this manuscript, we report on the long-term improvements in quality of life (QoL) outcomes for subjects enrolled in this study.

Methods

A prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial (SENZA-RCT) was conducted. Patients with both chronic back and leg pain were enrolled and randomized (1:1) into 10 kHz SCS or traditional SCS treatment groups. A total of 171 subjects received a permanent SCS device implant. QoL and functionality measures were collected up to 12 months. The device remote control utilization, which is an indication of patient interaction with the device for adjustments, was collected at 24-month post-implantation.

Results

At 12 months, a higher proportion of 10 kHz SCS subjects had marked improvement of their disability (Oswestry Disability Index) to a “moderate” or “minimal” impact on their daily function versus the control group. The subjects also reported better improvement in the Global Assessment of Functioning, Clinician Global Impression of Change, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire, compared to traditional SCS subjects. The 10 kHz SCS subjects also reported far higher rates of both driving and sleeping with their device turned on, as well as reduced reliance on their programmers to adjust therapy settings.

Conclusions

In addition to superior pain relief, 10 kHz SCS provides long-term improvements in quality of life and functionality for subjects with chronic low-back and leg pain. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01609972).

Differences in primary and revision deformity surgeries: following 1,063 primary thoracolumbar adult spinal deformity fusions over time

Background

This study aims to describe properties of adult spinal deformity (ASD) revisions relative to primary surgeries and determine clinical variables that can predict revision. ASD is a common pathology that can lead to decreased quality of life, pain, physical limitations, and dissatisfaction with self-image. Durability of interventions for deformity treatment is of paramount concern to surgeons, as revision rates remain high.

Methods

Patients undergoing thoracolumbar fusion, five or more levels, for scoliosis (primary diagnosis ICD-9 737.x) were identified on a state-wide database. Primary and revision (returning for re-fusion procedure) surgeries were compared based on demographic, hospital stay, and clinical characteristics. Differences between primary and revision surgeries, and predictors of primary surgeries requiring revision, utilized binary logistic regression controlling for age, comorbidity burden, and levels fused.

Results

A total of 1,063 patients (average 7.4 levels fused, mean age: 47.6 years, 69.0% female) undergoing operative treatment for ASD were identified, of which 123 (average 7.1 levels fused, 11.6%, mean age 61.43, 80.5% female) had surgical revision. Primary surgeries were ~0.3 levels longer (P=0.013), used interbody ~11% more frequently (P=0.020), and used BMP ~12% less frequently (P=0.008). Revisions occurred 176.4 days after the primary on average. The most frequent causes of revisions were: 43.09% implant failure, 24.39% acquired kyphosis, and 14.63% enduring scoliosis. After controlling for age, comorbidities, and levels fused older, more comorbid, female, and white-race patients were more likely to be revised. Upon multivariate regression, after controlling for age and levels fused, overall complications remained non-different (OR: 0.8, 95% CI: 0.6-1.2). However, revision remained an independent predictor for infection (OR: 5.5, 95% CI: 2.8-10.5).

Conclusions

In a statewide database with individual patient follow up of up to 4 years 10% of ASD patients undergoing scoliosis correction required revision. Revision surgeries had higher infection incidence.

The unreimbursed costs of preventing revision surgery in adult spinal deformity: analysis of cost-effectiveness of proximal junctional failure prevention with ligament augmentation

OBJECTIVE

Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is a well-recognized complication of surgery for adult spinal deformity and is characterized by increased kyphosis at the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV). PJK prevention strategies have the potential to decrease morbidity and cost by reducing rates of proximal junctional failure (PJF), which the authors define as radiographic PJK plus clinical sequelae requiring revision surgery.

METHODS

The authors performed an analysis of 195 consecutive patients with adult spinal deformity. Age, sex, levels fused, upper instrumented vertebra (UIV), use of 3-column osteotomy, pelvic fixation, and mean time to follow-up were collected. The authors also reviewed operative reports to assess for the use of surgical adjuncts targeted toward PJK prevention, including ligament augmentation, hook fixation, and vertebroplasty. The cost of surgery, including direct and total costs, was also assessed at index surgery and revision surgery. Only revision surgery for PJF was included.

RESULTS

The mean age of the cohort was 64 years (range 25–84 years); 135 (69%) patients were female. The mean number of levels fused was 10 (range 2–18) with the UIV as follows: 2 cervical (1%), 73 upper thoracic (37%), 108 lower thoracic (55%), and 12 lumbar (6%). Ligament augmentation was used in 99 cases (51%), hook fixation in 60 cases (31%), and vertebroplasty in 71 cases (36%). PJF occurred in 18 cases (9%). Univariate analysis found that ligament augmentation and hook fixation were associated with decreased rates of PJF. However, in a multivariate model that also incorporated age, sex, and UIV, only ligament augmentation maintained a significant association with PJF reduction (OR 0.196, 95% CI 0.050–0.774; p = 0.020). Patients with ligament augmentation, compared with those without, had a higher cost of index surgery, but ligament augmentation was overall cost effective and produced significant cost savings. In sensitivity analyses in which we independently varied the reduction in PJF, cost of ligament augmentation, and cost of reoperation by ± 50%, ligament augmentation remained a cost-effective strategy for PJF prevention.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevention strategies for PJK/PJF are limited, and their cost-effectiveness has yet to be established. The authors present the results of 195 patients with adult spinal deformity and show that ligament augmentation is associated with significant reductions in PJF in both univariate and multivariate analyses, and that this intervention is cost-effective. Future studies will need to determine if these clinical results are reproducible, but for high-risk cases, these data suggest an important role of ligament augmentation for PJF prevention and cost savings.

Management of Spinal Deformities and Evidence of Treatment Effectiveness

INTRODUCTION

The review evaluates the up-to-date evidence for the treatment of spinal deformities, including scoliosis and hyperkyphosis in adolescents and adults.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The PubMed database was searched for review articles, prospective controlled trials and randomized controlled trials related to the treatment of spinal deformities. Articles on syndromic scoliosis were excluded and so were the articles on hyperkyphosis of the spine with causes other than Scheuermann's disease and osteoporosis. Articles on conservative and surgical treatments of idiopathic scoliosis, adult scoliosis and hyperkyphosis were also included. For retrospective papers, only studies with a follow up period exceeding 10 years were included.

RESULTS

The review showed that early-onset idiopathic scoliosis has a worse outcome than late-onset idiopathic scoliosis, which is rather benign. Patients with AIS function well as adults; they have no more health problems when compared to patients without scoliosis, other than a slight increase in back pain and aesthetic concern. Conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE), specifically PSSR and rigid bracing was supported by level I evidence. Yet to date, there is no high quality evidence (RCT`s) demonstrating that surgical treatment is superior to conservative treatment for the management of AIS. For adult scoliosis, there are only a few studies on the effectiveness of PSSEs and a conclusion cannot as yet be drawn.For hyperkyphosis, there is no high-quality evidence for physiotherapy, bracing or surgery for the treatment of adolescents and adults. However, bracing has been found to reduce thoracic hyperkyphosis, ranging from 55 to 80° in adolescents. In patients over the age of 60, bracing improves the balance score, and reduces spinal deformity and pain. Surgery is indicated in adolescents and adults in the presence of progression of kyphosis, refractory pain and loss of balance.

DISCUSSION

The available evidence reviewed has suggested that different approaches are needed towards the management of different spinal deformities. Specific exercises should be prescribed in children and adolescents with a Cobb angle in excess of 15°. In progressive curves, they should be used in conjunction with bracing. Clarity regarding differences and similarities is given as to what makes PSSE and PSSR specific exercises. As AIS is relatively benign in nature, conservative treatment should be tried when the curve is at a surgical threshold, before surgery is considered. Similarly, bracing and exercises should be prescribed for patients with hyperkyphosis, particularly when the lumbar spine is afflicted. Surgery should be considered only when the symptoms cannot be managed conservatively.

CONCLUSION

There is at present high quality evidence in support of the conservative treatment of AIS. The current evidence supports the use of PSSE, especially those using PSSR, together with bracing in the treatment of AIS. In view of the lack of medical consequences in adults with AIS, conservative treatment should be considered for curves exceeding the formerly assumed range of conservative indications.There is, however a lack of evidence in support of any treatment of choice for hyperkyphosis in adolescents and spinal deformities in adults. Yet, conservative treatment should be considered first. Yet to date, there is no high quality evidence (RCT`s) demonstrating that surgical treatment is superior to conservative treatment for the management of AIS and hyperkyphosis. Additionally, surgery needs to be considered with caution, as it is associated with a number of long-term complications.

Functional outcome of non-surgical and surgical management for de novo degenerative lumbar scoliosis: a mean follow-up of 10 years

Background

No studies have evaluated the long-term results of non-surgical and surgical management in de novo degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DNDLS). This study reports on the long-term functional outcome of patients being treated for DNDLS by non-surgical and surgical management.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of a single center database of DNDLS patients that underwent surgical or usual non-surgical management between 1996 and 2007. In a total of 88 patients, 50 (57%) underwent non-surgical and 38 (43%) surgical management. Baseline demographic, radiological-, clinical-, and surgical-related variables were collected. An Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) 2.0 questionnaire was sent to all patients after written informed consent.

Results

Twenty-nine of 88 patients participated in the study, 15 (52%) had undergone surgical and 14 (48%) non-surgical management with a mean follow-up of 10.9 years (range 8-15 years). There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between non-surgical and surgical patients at baseline for age, body mass index, coronal Cobb angle, and clinical data. None of the non-surgical patients had undergone surgery during follow-up. In the surgical group, 40% had revision surgery. There was no significant difference in ODI total scores between groups at final follow-up (p = 0.649). A larger proportion of patients in the non-surgical group reported an ODI total score of ≤ 22, reflecting minimal disability (43 versus 20%; p = 0.245).

Conclusions

This is the first study that describes the long-term 10-year functional outcome of non-surgical and surgical management in a cohort of patients with DNDLS. No significant difference in functional outcome was found between groups after a mean follow-up of 10 years. Despite the significant potential for selection bias, these results indicate that non-surgical management of patients with DNDLS may lead to adequate functional outcome after long periods of time, with no crossover to surgery. Further study is warranted to define which patients may benefit most from which management regimen.

Effect of stabilization exercise on back pain, disability and quality of life in adults with scoliosis: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Adult scoliosis (AS) is the most common spine deformity in adults. Back pain is the main symptom leading patients to seek medical consultation. Stabilization exercise has been shown effective for reducing back pain. No literature review has examined the effects of such exercises in adults with scoliosis. The objective was to systematically review the effects of stabilization exercises on back pain, disability and quality of life in adults with scoliosis.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We systematically searched the following databases from inception to March 2017: Medline, CINAHL, Embase, SportDiscus and Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials. Selection criteria included: controlled clinical trials that compare core stabilization exercise to placebo, no treatment or another treatment in participants diagnosed with AS over 18 years old. Studies with participants presenting torso or lower extremity surgery, injection in the last six months, comorbidity that could affect the spine, red flags signs or with a history of spine trauma were excluded. We extracted information about participants, treatments, and results on pain, function and quality of life. We appraised quality using Cochrane risk of bias. We formulated level of evidence summary statements using a priori rules based on quality and consistency of results.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

We found 630 unique articles and screened the full-text of 98 articles retrieved. Only one article met all selection criteria and was included in this review. Studies were mainly excluded for study design and patient population. The included study presented a low risk of bias for all criteria except for blinding and reporting if the timing of assessments was similar between groups. The literature provides limited evidence from one study with high risk of bias that stabilization exercises in the form of 20 weeks of active self-correction, task-oriented exercises and cognitive-behavioral therapy significantly improves pain, disability and quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the high prevalence of AS, there is an important gap in the literature with limited evidence reporting the effect of exercise on back pain in adults with scoliosis. This review suggest further experimental research is needed and formulates research recommendations.

Reliability and Validity Study of the Finnish Adaptation of Scoliosis Research Society Questionnaire Version SRS-30

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective clinical study to test and adapt a Finnish version of the Scoliosis Research Society 30 (SRS-30) questionnaire.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to perform cross-cultural adaptation and evaluate the validity of the adapted Finnish version of the SRS-30 questionnaire.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The SRS-30 questionnaire has proved to be a valid instrument in evaluating health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adolescent and adult population with spine deformities in the United States. Multinational availability requires cross-cultural and linguistic adaptation and validation of the instrument.

METHODS

The SRS-30 was translated into Finnish using accepted methods for translation of quality-of-life questionnaires. A total of 274 adult patients with degenerative radiographic sagittal spinal disorder answered the questionnaire with sociodemographic data, RAND 36-item health survey questionnaire (RAND Corp. Health, Santa Monica, CA, US), Oswestry disability index, DEPS depression scale, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) back and leg pain scales within 2 weeks' interval. The cohort included patients with and without previous spine surgery. Internal consistency and validity were tested with Cronbach α, intraclass correlation (ICC), standard error of measurement, and Spearman correlation coefficient with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

The internal consistency of SRS-30 was good in both surgery and nonsurgery groups, with Cronbach α 0.853 (95% CI, 0.670 to 0.960) and 0.885 (95% CI, 0.854 to 0.911), respectively. The test-retest reproducibility ICC of the SRS-30 total and subscore domains of patients with stable symptoms was 0.905 (95% CI, 0.870-0.930) and 0.904 (95% CI, 0.871-0.929), respectively. The questionnaire had discriminative validity in the pain, self-image, and satisfaction with management domains compared with other questionnaires.

CONCLUSION

The SRS-30 questionnaire proved to be valid and applicable in evaluating HRQoL in Finnish adult spinal deformity patients. It has two domains related to deformity that are not covered by other generally used questionnaires.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Effectiveness of Operative and Nonoperative Care for Adult Spinal Deformity: Systematic Review of the Literature

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

OBJECTIVE

There is a need for synthesizing data on effectiveness of treatments for patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD) due to its increasing prevalence and health care costs for these patients. The objective of this review was to estimate the effectiveness of surgery versus nonoperative care in patients with ASD.

METHODS

A systematic review of articles in published in English using PubMed between 2005 and 2015. Surgical and nonsurgical series that reported baseline and follow-up health-related quality of life measures of patients with ASD with a minimum 2 years of follow-up were selected. Independent extraction of articles by 2 authors using predefined data fields, including risk of bias assessment.

RESULTS

Surgery significantly reduces disability, pain, and improves patients' quality of life. The average postoperative improvement in Oswestry Disability Index was -19.1 (±9.0), Numerical Rating Scale back pain -4.14 (±1.38), Numerical Rating Scale leg pain -3.36 (±1.33), Short-Form Health Survey 36-SF36-Physical Component score 11.2 (±5.07), and Short-Form Health Survey 36-Mental Component score 9.93 (±4.96). The complication rate ranged from 9.52% to 81.52% (mean = 39.62%), and the need for revision surgery ranged from 1.72% to 40.0% (mean = 15.71%). The best existing evidence about nonoperative care of ASD is provided from observational studies with very high risk of bias. Quantitative analyses of nonsurgical cohorts did not demonstrate significant changes in quality of life of patients after 2 years of observation.

CONCLUSIONS

This data may assist clinicians to counsel patients, as well as to inform health care providers and policymakers about what to expect from the treatment for ASD.

Adult Spinal Deformity: Epidemiology, Health Impact, Evaluation, and Management

Spinal deformity in the adult is a common medical disorder with a significant and measurable impact on health-related quality of life. The ability to measure and quantify patient self-reported health status with disease-specific and general health status measures, and to correlate health status with radiographic and clinical measures of spinal deformity, has enabled significant advances in the assessment of the impact of deformity on our population, and in the evaluation and management of spinal deformity using an evidence-based approach. There has been a significant paradigm shift in the evaluation and management of patients with adult deformity. The paradigm shift includes development of validated, disease-specific measures of health status, recognition of deformity in the sagittal plane as a primary determinant of health status, and information on results of operative and medical/interventional management strategies for adults with spinal deformity. Since its inception in 1966, the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) has been an international catalyst for improving the research and care for patients of all ages with spinal deformity. The SRS Adult Spinal Deformity Committee serves the mission of developing and defining an evidence-based approach to the evaluation and management of adult spinal deformity. The purpose of this overview from the SRS Adult Deformity Committee is to provide current information on the epidemiology and impact of adult deformity, and to provide patients, physicians, and policy makers a guide to the evidence-based evaluation and management of patients with adult deformity.

A Multicenter Comparison of Inpatient Resource Use for Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter, retrospective analysis, prospective database, consecutive case series.

OBJECTIVE

This study examines multicenter variability in patient-level surgical resource use, including implants, biologics, and length of stay (LOS), alongside health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) improvements after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Efficiency in surgical resource use is critical to high-value health care. Decision makers and payers are placing increasing scrutiny on the costs and outcomes associated with complex spine surgery. Little is currently known regarding the variation in resources used and associated outcomes in complex spine surgeries.

METHODS

HRQoL outcomes were calculated from the Oswestry Disability Index, disease-specific 22-item Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire, and Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36-question health survey domain scores. Changes in HRQoL were estimated as the difference between baseline and 2-year values. Patient-level surgical resources included blood use, bone morphogenetic protein volume, LOS, and implants. Patients were classified by mild, moderate, or severe sagittal modifier and analyzed across centers using analysis of variance and multivariable regression.

RESULTS

We analyzed 251 ASD patients, who were predominantly female (n = 207, 85%) with an average of 56 years (range 18-84 years). Significant differences were found in the average 2-year change in HRQoL across centers; however, this difference was found insignificant after controlling for patients within the same modifier groups (P > .05). However, significant differences were found across centers in average resources used per surgery (P < 0.05), with only LOS not reaching significance (P > 0.05). After accounting for clinical, demographic, and regional characteristics at the patient level, variation among centers persisted in resource use with no corresponding statistical differences in HRQoL outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The use of additional surgical resources does not appear to impact 2-year HRQoL outcomes after surgery for ASD. The estimated impact of physician preference on surgical resource utilization highlights the variation in current surgical practice and the opportunity for cost reductions via a more standardized approach.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Patient Factors That Influence Decision Making: Randomization Versus Observational Nonoperative Versus Observational Operative Treatment for Adult Symptomatic Lumbar Scoliosis

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective study with randomized and observational cohorts.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine baseline variables affecting adult symptomatic lumbar scoliosis (ASLS) decision making to participate in randomization (RAND), observational nonsurgical (OBS-NS), or observational surgical (OBS-S) cohorts.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Multiple factors play a key role in a patient's decision to be randomized or to choose an OBS-NS or OBS-S course for ASLS. Studies evaluating these factors are limited.

METHODS

Eligible candidates (patients with ASLS and no prior spinal fusion deformity surgery) from 9 centers participated in a RAND, OBS-NS, or OBS-S cohort study. Baseline variables (demographics, socioeconomics, patient-reported outcomes [PROs], Functional Treadmill Test, radiographs) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Two hundred ninety-five patients were enrolled: 67 RAND, 115 OBS-NS, 113 OBS-S. Subanalysis of older patients (60-80 years) found 54% of OBS-NS had college degrees compared with 82% of RAND and 71% of OBS-S (P = 0.010). Patients deciding to be part of a RAND cohort have similar clinical characteristics to the OBS-S cohort. OBS-S had more symptomatic spinal stenosis (57% vs. 39%, P = 0.029) and worse scores than OBS-NS on the basis of PROs (Back Pain Numerical Rating Scale [NRS 6.3 vs. 5.5, P = 0.007]; Scoliosis Research Society [SRS] Pain [2.8 vs. 3.0, P = 0.018], Function [3.1 vs. 3.4, P = 0.019] and Self-Image [2.7 vs. 3.1, P = 0.002]; Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) [36.9 vs. 31.8, P = 0.029]; post-Treadmill back [5.8 vs. 4.4, P = 0.002] and leg [4.3 vs. 3.1, P = 0.037] pain NRS and larger lumbar coronal Cobb angles (56.5 degrees vs. 48.8 degrees, P < 0.001). RAND had more baseline motor deficits (10.4% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.036) and worse scores than OBS-NS on the basis of ODI (38.8 vs. 31.8, P = 0.006), SRS Function [3.1 vs. 3.4, P = 0.034], and Self-Image [2.7 vs. 3.1, P = 0.007].

CONCLUSION

Patients with worse PROs, more back pain, more back and leg pain with ambulation, and larger lumbar Cobb angles are more inclined to select surgical over nonsurgical management.

Unplanned Reoperations Affect Long-Term Outcomes in Adult Spinal Deformity Patients Undergoing Long Fusions to the Sacrum

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective clinical cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the long-term complications and outcomes scores of primary and revision surgeries for adult spinal deformity of patients treated with long fusions to the sacrum.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Long fusions in patients with adult spinal deformity are fraught with complications and the need for reoperation that can significantly impact patient health-related quality of life.

METHODS

Data from 134 consecutive patients who underwent spinal fusion from the thoracic spine to the sacropelvis and had a minimum of 5-year follow-up were analyzed. Patients were classified as primary surgery (PS) and index revision (IR) surgery; they were then subdivided based on whether they returned to the operating room (RTO) or not (NRTO). RTO complications were classified as 1) infection, 2) neurologic, 3) fusion status, 4) implants, and 5) global alignment and stratified as <6 months, <2 years, and >2 years. Final Scoliosis Research Society Patient Questionnaire (SRS 22r) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were compared between subgroups.

RESULTS

Seventy-one PS and 63 IR were included in the analysis. Mean age at surgery was 54.9 years (30-78), mean follow-up 5.8 years (4.9-12.8). RTO rates were 21.1% and 34.9%, respectively, for PS and IR (p = .16). 43.8% of patients requiring reoperation did so on multiple occasions. Fifty PS and 41 IR cases had complete SRS 22 and ODI scores. Final SRS 22 total scores were 3.74 and 3.41 (p = .02) for the respective groups. ODI scores were 25.4% and 34.0% (p = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Both groups had a significant number of revision surgeries performed by 5 years of follow-up. Unplanned reoperation significantly affected ODI and SRS 22 outcomes scores in the individual domains of pain, function, and overall satisfaction as well as total score at the 5-year follow-up regardless of PS or IR status. Overall, the PS group had improved outcomes when compared to the IR group.

Etiology of lumbar lordosis and its pathophysiology: a review of the evolution of lumbar lordosis, and the mechanics and biology of lumbar degeneration

The goal of this review is to discuss the mechanisms of postural degeneration, particularly the loss of lumbar lordosis commonly observed in the elderly in the context of evolution, mechanical, and biological studies of the human spine and to synthesize recent research findings to clinical management of postural malalignment. Lumbar lordosis is unique to the human spine and is necessary to facilitate our upright posture. However, decreased lumbar lordosis and increased thoracic kyphosis are hallmarks of an aging human spinal column. The unique upright posture and lordotic lumbar curvature of the human spine suggest that an understanding of the evolution of the human spinal column, and the unique anatomical features that support lumbar lordosis may provide insight into spine health and degeneration. Considering evolution of the skeleton in isolation from other scientific studies provides a limited picture for clinicians. The evolution and development of human lumbar lordosis highlight the interdependence of pelvic structure and lumbar lordosis. Studies of fossils of human lineage demonstrate a convergence on the degree of lumbar lordosis and the number of lumbar vertebrae in modern Homo sapiens. Evolution and spine mechanics research show that lumbar lordosis is dictated by pelvic incidence, spinal musculature, vertebral wedging, and disc health. The evolution, mechanics, and biology research all point to the importance of spinal posture and flexibility in supporting optimal health. However, surgical management of postural deformity has focused on restoring posture at the expense of flexibility. It is possible that the need for complex and costly spinal fixation can be eliminated by developing tools for early identification of patients at risk for postural deformities through patient history (genetics, mechanics, and environmental exposure) and tracking postural changes over time.

Incremental cost-effectiveness of adult spinal deformity surgery: observed quality-adjusted life years with surgery compared with predicted quality-adjusted life years without surgery

OBJECT

Incremental cost-effectiveness analysis is critical to the efficient allocation of health care resources; however, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of surgical versus nonsurgical treatment for adult spinal deformity (ASD) has eluded the literature, due in part to inherent empirical difficulties when comparing surgical and nonsurgical patients. Using observed preoperative health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for patients who later underwent surgery, this study builds a statistical model to predict hypothetical quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) without surgical treatment. The analysis compares predicted QALYs to observed postoperative QALYs and forms the resulting ICER.

METHODS

This was a single-center (Baylor Scoliosis Center) retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing primary surgery for ASD. Total costs (expressed in 2010 dollars) incurred by the hospital for each episode of surgical care were collected from administrative data and QALYs were calculated from the 6-dimensional Short-Form Health Survey, each discounted at 3.5% per year. Regression analysis was used to predict hypothetical QALYs without surgery based on preoperative longitudinal data for 124 crossover surgical patients with similar diagnoses, baseline HRQOL, age, and sex compared with the surgical cohort. Results were projected through 10-year follow-up, and the cost-effectiveness acceptability curve (CEAC) was estimated using nonparametric bootstrap methods.

RESULTS

Three-year follow-up was available for 120 (66%) of 181 eligible patients, who were predominantly female (89%) with average age of 50. With discounting, total costs averaged $125,407, including readmissions, with average QALYs of 1.93 at 3-year follow-up. Average QALYs without surgery were predicted to be 1.6 after 3 years. At 3- and 5-year follow-up, the ICER was $375,000 and $198,000, respectively. Projecting through 10-year follow-up, the ICER was $80,000. The 10-year CEAC revealed a 40% probability that the ICER was $80,000 or less, a 90% probability that the ICER was $90,000 or less, and a 100% probability that the ICER was less than $100,000.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the WHO's suggested upper threshold for cost-effectiveness (3 times per capita GDP, or $140,000 in 2010 dollars), the analysis reveals that surgical treatment for ASD is cost-effective after a 10-year period based on predicted deterioration in HRQOL without surgery. The ICER well exceeds the WHO threshold at earlier follow-up intervals, highlighting the importance of the durability of surgical treatment in assessing the value of surgical intervention. Due to the study's methodology, the results are dependent on the predicted deterioration in HRQOL without surgery. As such, the results may not extend to patients whose HRQOL would remain steady without surgery. Future research should therefore pursue a direct comparison of QALYs for surgical and nonsurgical patients to better understand the cost-effectiveness of surgery for the average ASD patient.

Does preoperative narcotic use adversely affect outcomes and complications after spinal deformity surgery? A comparison of nonnarcotic- with narcotic-using groups

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

The role of preoperative (preop) narcotic use and its influence on outcomes after spinal deformity surgery are unknown. It is important to determine which patient factors and comorbidities can affect the success of spinal deformity surgery, a challenging surgery with high rates of complications at baseline.

PURPOSE

To evaluate if preop narcotic use persists after spinal deformity surgery and whether the outcomes are adversely affected by preop narcotic use.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective evaluation of prospectively collected data.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Two hundred fifty-three adult patients (230 females/23 males) undergoing primary spinal deformity surgery were enrolled from 2000 to 2009.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Preoperative and postoperative (postop) narcotic use and changes in Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) pain, and SRS total scores.

METHODS

Preoperative, 2-year postop, and latest follow-up pain medication use were collected along with ODI, SRS pain, and SRS scores. Preoperative insurance status, surgical and hospitalization demographics, and complications were collected. All patients had a minimum 2-year follow-up (average 47.4 months).

RESULTS

One hundred sixty-eight nonnarcotic (NoNarc) patients were taking no pain meds or only nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories preoperatively. Eighty-five patients were taking mild/moderate/heavy narcotics before surgery. The average age was 48.2 years for the NoNarc group versus 53.6 years for the Narc group (p<.005). There were significantly more patients with degenerative than adult scoliosis in the Narc group (47 vs. 28, p<.001; mild 19 vs. 24, p<.02; moderate 6 vs. 14, p<.0003; heavy 3 vs. 10, p<.0002). Insurance status (private/Medicare/Medicaid) was similar between the groups (p=.39). At latest follow-up, 137/156 (88%) prior NoNarc patients were still not taking narcotics whereas 48/79 (61%) prior narcotic patients were now off narcotics (p<.001). Significant postop improvements were seen in Narc versus NoNarc groups with regard to ODI (26-15 vs. 44-30.3, p<.001), SRS pain (3.36-3.9 vs. 2.3-3.38, p<.001), and overall SRS outcome (3.36-4 vs. 2.78-3.68, p<.001) scores. A comparison of change in outcome scores between the two groups showed a higher improvement in SRS pain scores for the Narc versus NoNarc group (p<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In adults with degenerative scoliosis taking narcotics a significant decrease in pain medication use was noted after surgery. All outcome scores significantly improved postop in both groups. However, the Narc group had significantly greater improvements in SRS pain scores versus the NoNarc group.

Patients with adult spinal deformity treated operatively report greater baseline pain and disability than patients treated nonoperatively; however, deformities differ between age groups

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter, prospective analysis of consecutive patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD).

OBJECTIVE

Identify age-related radiographical parameters associated with poor health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and treatment preferences for ASD.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Patients with ASD report discrepant severities of disability. Understanding age-associated differences for reported disability and treatment preferences may improve ASD evaluation and treatment.

METHODS

Baseline demographic, radiographical, and HRQOL values were evaluated in a multicenter, prospective cohort of consecutive patients with ASD.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

ASD, age more than 18 years, and no prior spine surgery. Patients were grouped into those treated operatively (OP) or nonoperatively (NON) and stratified into 3 age groups: G1, 50 years or less; G2, 50 to 65 years; G3, 65 years or more. HRQOL measures included Scoliosis Research Society-22r questionnaire, Oswestry Disability Index, and Short Form-36 Health Survey.

RESULTS

Four hundred ninety-seven patients (OP = 156, NON = 341) with a mean age of 50.4 years met inclusion criteria. The OP group was older (53.3 vs. 49.0 yr), had larger scoliosis (49.3° vs. 43.3°), larger sagittal vertical axis (SVA, 33.2 vs. 13.7 mm), greater pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis mismatch (6.6°vs. 3.1°), and worse HRQOL scores than the NON group, respectively (P < 0.05). Age stratification demonstrated worsening of SVA, spinopelvic alignment (SPA), and HRQOL scores with increasing age (P < 0.05). Age/treatment stratification demonstrated that younger OP had greater scoliosis than NON (G1OP = 49.9°vs. G1NON = 42.2°; G2OP = 56°vs. G2NON = 47.2°; P < 0.05) but similar SPA as NON. Older OP had similar scoliosis, but larger SVA than NON (G3OP = 100.6 vs. G3NON = 66.4 mm; P < 0.05). OP in all age groups reported worse HRQOL than NON (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Poor HRQOL uniformly determined operative treatment for ASD. Spinal deformities differed between age groups. Younger OP had larger scoliosis but similar SPA and SVA than NON. Older OP had similar scoliosis but worse SVA than NON. Age-associated differences for poor HRQOL must be considered when evaluating patients with ASD.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

Clinical improvement through nonoperative treatment of adult spinal deformity: who is likely to benefit?

Object

The goal of this study was to determine the outcome and risk factors in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD) who elected to receive nonoperative care.

Methods

In this retrospective study the authors reviewed a nonoperative branch of the International Spine Study Group database, derived from 10 sites across the US. Specific inclusion criteria included nonoperative treatment for ASD and the availability of Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 scores and radiographic data at baseline (BL) and at 1-year (1Y) follow-up. Health-related quality of life measures were assessed using the SRS-22 and radiographic data. Changes in SRS-22 scores were evaluated by domain and expressed in number of minimum clinically important differences (MCIDs) gained or lost; BL and 1Y scores were also compared with age- and sex-matched normative references.

Results

One hundred eighty-nine patients (mean age 53 years, 86% female) met inclusion criteria. Pain was the domain with the largest offset for 43% of patients, followed by the Appearance (23%), Activity (18%), and Mental (15%) domains. On average, patients improved 0.3 MCID in Pain over 1Y, without changes in Activity or Appearance. Baseline scores significantly impacted 1Y outcomes, with up to 85% of patients in the mildest category of deformity being classified as < 1 MCID of normative reference at 1Y, versus 0% of patients with the most severe initial deformity. Baseline radiographic parameters did not correlate with outcome.

Conclusions

Patients who received nonoperative care are significantly more disabled than age- and sex-matched normative references. The likelihood for a patient to reach SRS scores similar to the normative reference at 1Y decreases with increased BL disability. Nonoperative treatment is a viable option for certain patients with ASD, and up to 24% of patients demonstrated significant improvement over 1Y with nonoperative care.

Cost and value of spinal deformity surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Literature review.

OBJECTIVE

To assess (1) quality of life in patients with adult scoliosis who underwent nonoperative and/or surgical treatment, and (2) cost-effectiveness of different scoliosis treatment modalities.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Recently, there has been an interest in examining quality of life of patients undergoing treatment for adult scoliosis, comparing the value of nonoperative versus operative management. This article reviews the current literature on treatment of adult scoliosis, in the hopes of drawing conclusions for the best approach to these patients.

METHODS

MEDLINE and PubMed databases were searched to identify articles. Health-related quality of life measures included Oswestry Disability Index scores, Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) instrument scores, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, and numerical rating scale for leg and/or back pain. Studies included were those involving patients with adult scoliosis who underwent primary surgery or nonoperative management. The studies that focused on the change in validated outcome scores from the onset of the study to final follow-up were found to be valuable. Studies on predominantly adolescent scoliosis and those that only measured postoperative outcomes scores were excluded.

RESULTS

The SRS-22, Oswestry Disability Index, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, and numerical rating scale were found to be validated for measuring quality of life in patients with scoliosis. Thirteen studies were included, which evaluated changes in health-related quality of life outcomes from baseline in surgical and nonsurgical treatment of adult scoliosis. There was a trend toward improved quality of life measures in patients undergoing surgical treatment for adult scoliosis.

CONCLUSION

Adults with painful and disabling scoliosis may benefit from surgical treatment compared with nonsurgical treatment, given the proper indications. Nonsurgical treatment does not seem to be cost-effective and has not shown to have a positive impact on quality of life, although there is a possibility that patients' health may have deteriorated if they did not receive the nonsurgical treatment. Future prospective studies focusing on the cost-effectiveness of adult scoliosis treatment and improvement of quality of life are needed to confirm the assertion of the current retrospective literature that surgery provides better quality of life than nonoperative treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A.

Analysis of the direct cost of surgery for four diagnostic categories of adult spinal deformity

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Existing literature on adult spinal deformity (ASD) offers little guidance regarding an evidence-based approach to care. To optimize the value of medical treatment, a thorough understanding of the cost of surgical treatment for ASD is required.

PURPOSE

To evaluate four clinically and radiographically distinct groups of ASD and identify and compare the cost of surgical treatment among the groups.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

Multicenter retrospective study of consecutive surgeries for ASD.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Three hundred twenty-five consecutive ASD patients treated between 2008 and 2010.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Cost data were collected from hospital administrative records on the direct costs (DCs) incurred for the episode of surgical care, excluding overhead.

METHODS

Based on preoperative radiographs and history, patients were categorized into one of four diagnostic categories of deformity: primary idiopathic scoliosis (PIS), primary degenerative scoliosis (PDS), primary sagittal plane deformity (PSPD), and revision (R). Analysis of variance and generalized linear model regressions were used to analyze the DCs of surgery and to assess differences in costs across the four diagnostic categories considered.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed in DC of surgery for different categories of ASD, with surgical treatment for PDS the most expensive followed in decreasing order by PSPD, PIS, and R (p<.01). Results further revealed a significant positive relationship between age and DC (p<.01) and a significant positive relationship between length of stay and DC (p<.01). Among PIS patients, for every incremental increase in levels fused, the expected DC increased by $3,997 (p=.00). Fusion to pelvis also significantly increased the DC of surgery for patients aged 18 to 29 years (p<.01) and 30 to 59 years (p<.01) but not for 60 years or more (p=.86).

CONCLUSIONS

There is an increasing DC of surgery with increasing age, length of hospital stay, length of fusion, and fusions to the pelvis. Revision surgery is the least expensive surgery on average and should therefore not preclude its consideration from a pure cost perspective.

Three-column osteotomies in the treatment of spinal deformity in adult patients 60 years old and older: outcome and complications

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review.

OBJECTIVE

To report and analyze the perioperative complications, radiographical results, and functional outcomes in elderly patients undergoing pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) and/or vertebral column resection (VCR) procedures for spinal deformity correction.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

To our knowledge, no studies have focused on 3-column osteotomies in the elderly.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed prospectively collected data for 51 consecutive patients 60 years or older undergoing 3-column osteotomies for spinal deformity correction (PSO, 36 patients; VCR, 13 patients; PSO and VCR, 2 patients) and who had at least 2 years' follow-up. We analyzed the perioperative complications; the preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up radiographical measurements; and the preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up functional outcome scores (using the Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire and Oswestry Disability Index). Hotelling's t2 test and the χ2 test were used for analysis (statistical significance, P < 0.05).

RESULTS

There were 9 (18%) major complications (5 with PSO and 4 with VCR) and 20 (39%) minor complications (14 with PSO and 6 with VCR). Compared with preoperative values, improvement at 6 weeks after surgery averaged 16° (range, 0°-42°) in thoracic scoliosis, 14° (range, 2°-25°) in lumbar scoliosis, 9° (range, 5°-35°) in thoracic kyphosis, -24° (range, -12° to -68°) in lumbar lordosis, 2.4 cm (range, 0-12 cm) in coronal balance, and 6.9 cm (range, -2 to 20 cm) in sagittal balance. At final follow-up, improvements in the coronal and sagittal balance were maintained. By final follow-up, compared with preoperative state, there were significant improvements in all 5 Scoliosis Research Society-22 domains and in the Oswestry Disability Index.

CONCLUSION

In the elderly patient, PSO and VCR can achieve significant restoration of sagittal and coronal balance and significant improvement in quality of life. However, both techniques can lead to serious complications and should be selectively used.

Morbidity and mortality after spinal deformity surgery in patients 75 years and older: complications and predictive factors

Object

As the population continues to age, relatively older geriatric patients will present more frequently with complex spinal deformities that may require surgical intervention. To the authors' knowledge, no study has analyzed factors predictive of complications after major spinal deformity surgery in the very elderly (75 years and older). The authors' objective was to determine the rate of minor and major complications and predictive factors in patients 75 years of age and older who underwent major spinal deformity surgery requiring a minimum 5-level arthrodesis procedure.

Methods

Twenty-one patients who were 75 years of age or older and underwent thoracic and/or lumbar fixation and arthrodesis across 5 or more levels for spinal deformity were analyzed retrospectively. The medical and surgical records were reviewed in detail. Age, diagnosis, comorbidities, operative data, hospital data, major and minor complications, and deaths were recorded. Factors predictive of perioperative complications were identified by logistic regression analysis.

Results

The mean patient age was 77 years old (range 75–83 years). There were 14 women and 7 men. The mean follow-up was 41.2 months (range 24–81 months). Fifteen patients (71%) had at least 1 comorbidity. A mean of 10.5 levels were fused (range 5–15 levels). Thirteen patients (62%) had at least 1 perioperative complication, and 8 (38%) had at least one major complication for a total of 17 complications. There were no perioperative deaths. Increasing age was predictive of any perioperative complication (p = 0.03). However, major complications were not predicted by age or comorbidities as a whole. In a subset analysis of comorbidities, only hypertension was predictive of a major complication (OR 10, 95% CI 1.3–78; p = 0.02). Long-term postoperative complications occurred in 11 patients (52%), and revision fusion surgery was necessary in 3 (14%).

Conclusions

Patients 75 years and older undergoing major spinal deformity surgery have an overall perioperative complication rate of 62%, with older age increasing the likelihood of a complication, and a long-term postoperative complication rate of 52%. Patients in this age group with a history of hypertension are 10 times more likely to incur a major perioperative complication. However, the mortality risk for these patients is not increased.

Adult spine deformity

Adult spinal deformity may occur as the result of a number of conditions and patients may present with a heterogeneous group of symptoms. Multiple etiologies may cause spinal deformity; however, symptoms are associated with progressive and asymmetric degeneration of the spinal elements potentially leading to neural element compression. Symptoms and clinical presentation vary and may be related to progressive deformity, axial back pain, and/or neurologic symptoms. Spinal deformity is becoming more common as adults 55-64 years of age are the fastest growing proportion of the U.S. population. As the percentage of elderly in the United States accelerates, more patients are expected to present with painful spinal conditions, potentially requiring spinal surgery. The decision between operative and nonoperative treatment for adult spinal deformity is based on the severity and type of the patient's symptoms as well as the magnitude and risk of potential interventions.