Prognostic factors for patients with spinal metastases from lung cancer

Prognostic Factors in Patients with Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression Secondary to Lung Cancer-A Retrospective UK Single-Centre Study

PURPOSE

Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is a severe complication of cancer that can lead to irreversible neurological impairment, necessitating prompt recognition and intervention. This retrospective, single-centre study aimed to determine the prognostic factors and survival rates among patients presenting with MSCC secondary to lung cancer.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We identified 74 patients with epidural metastases-related spinal cord compression and a history of lung cancer through the electronic database of Medway Maritime Hospital in the United Kingdom (UK), spanning the period from April 2016 to September 2021. Among them, 39 were below 55 years old, while 35 were aged 55 years or older; 24 patients were diagnosed with small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and 50 patients had non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

RESULTS

The median overall survival (OS) was 5.5 months, with 52 out of 74 patients dying within 6 months of diagnosis with MSCC. For the entire cohort, the statistically significant variables on multi-variate analysis were cancer type (NSCLC had improved OS), the number of involved vertebrae (one to two vertebrae involvement had improved OS), and the time taken to develop motor deficits (≤10 days to develop motor deficits had worsened OS). For the NSCLC cohort, the statistically significant variables on multivariate analysis were molecular alterations (patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation), pre-treatment ambulatory status, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, and the time taken to develop motor deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the entire cohort, patients diagnosed with NSCLC and spinal metastases affecting one to two vertebrae exhibited enhanced OS. Within the NSCLC subgroup, those with EGFR mutations who were ambulatory and possessed an ECOG performance status of 1-2 demonstrated improved OS. In both the entire cohort and the NSCLC subgroup, the development of motor deficits within a period of ≤10 days was associated with poor OS.

Spinal metastases from non-small cell lung cancer - Is surgical extent enough by following suggestions of the Tomita and Tokuhashi scores?

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

The Tomita, revised Tokuhashi and Tokuhashi lung scores are commonly used tools to predict the survival of patients with spinal metastases and to guide decisions regarding surgical treatment. These prognostic scores, however, tend to underestimate the prognosis of patients with lung cancer. We examined surgical outcome and hopefully provide a more accurate reference for management.

METHODS

The consistency between predicted and actual survival was examined using the Tomita and Tokuhashi scores. Various factors that may influence survival were analyzed. Primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), defined as the ambulatory time after the initial surgery. Secondary outcomes included reoperation events, blood loss, and hospitalization days.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-two patients were enrolled. Correct survival predictions were made for 28%, 42%, and 56% with the Tomita, revised Tokuhashi, and Tokuhashi lung scores, respectively. The Tokuhashi lung scores underestimated OS by 35%-40%. Body mass index ≥20, systemic treatment-naïve, good general condition, the use of denosumab, and adenocarcinoma were found to positively affect OS and PFS. There was no significant difference between palliative decompression and excisional surgery regarding OS and PFS.

CONCLUSION

Patients with spinal metastases from lung cancer had better prognosis than that predicted by the Tomita and Tokuhashi scores. Spine surgeons should acknowledge this discrepancy and treat these patients with at least the aggressiveness suggested. Patients with adenocarcinoma, amenable to target therapy, denosumab, good general condition, systemic treatment-naïve are better candidates for surgery. Those with cachexic status and unresectable visceral metastases are worse candidates.

Surgical Management of the Metastatic Spine Disease: A Review of the Literature and Proposed Algorithm

STUDY DESIGN

Narrative Review. The spine remains the most common site for bony metastasis. It is estimated that up to 70% of cancer patients harbor secondary spinal disease. And up to 10% will develop a clinically significant lesion. The last two decades have seen a substantial leap forward in the advancements of the management of spinal metastases. What once was a death sentence is now a manageable, even potentially treatable condition. With marked advancements in the surgical treatment and post-operative radiotherapy, a standardized approach to stratify and manage these patients is both prudent and now feasible.

OBJECTIVES

This article looks to examine the best available evidence in the stratification and surgical management of patients with spinal metastases. So the aim of this review is to offer a standardized approach for surgical management and surgical planning of patients with spinal metastases.

Expression of CX3CL1 and CCL28 in Spinal Metastases of Lung Adenocarcinoma and Their Correlation with Clinical Features and Prognosis

Lung adenocarcinoma is the most common non-small-cell lung cancer. In this paper, we aim to investigate the expression of chemokine ligand 1 (cx3cl1) and chemokine ligand 28 (CCL28) in spinal metastases of lung adenocarcinoma and their correlation with clinical features and prognosis. We analyzed the clinical data of 40 patients with lung adenocarcinoma and spinal metastases who underwent surgery in our hospital from January 2018 to January 2021 retrospectively. The expression levels of cx3cl1 and CCL28 in bone metastases were detected by immunohistochemistry, and the staining results were sorted and classified. Combined with the follow-up results and clinicopathological data, we statistically analyzed the expression of cx3cl1 and CCL28 in spinal bone metastases and their correlation with prognosis. Among the 40 patients with spinal metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma, 7 cases were strongly positive for cx3cl1, 25 cases were moderately positive, and 8 cases were weakly positive and negative. CCL28 was strongly positive in 9 cases, moderately positive in 26 cases, weakly positive and negative in 5 cases. The expression of cx3cl1 was correlated with ECOG score (P = 0.005) and visceral organ metastasis (P = 0.004), but not with age, sex, and the number of bone metastases (P > 0.05). The expression of CCL28 was correlated with ECOG score (P = 0.022) and visceral organ metastasis (P = 0.003), but not with age, sex, and the number of bone metastases (P > 0.05). The OS of patients with strong cx3cl1 positive was significantly shorter than that of patients with medium positive and weak positive (P < 0.001). The survival time was 10, 7, and 4 months, respectively. The OS of patients with strong positive CCL28 was significantly shorter than that of patients with medium positive and weak positive CCL28 (P = 0.004). The survival time was 12, 8, and 4 months, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that ECOG score (P < 0.001), chemotherapy (P = 0.032), visceral organ metastasis (P = 0.002), cx3cl1 expression (P < 0.001), and CCL28 expression (P = 0.004) were the risk factors of OS. Cox regression analysis showed that the expression of cx3cl1 was an independent risk factor for OS in patients with spinal metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma (P = 0.044). Cx3cl1 and CCL28 were highly/strongly positive in spinal metastases of lung adenocarcinoma. The level of cx3cl1 can be used as an index to judge the clinical prognosis of patients with spinal metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma, which can better reflect the prognosis of patients than CCL28.

Surgical Intervention for Patients With Spinal Metastasis From Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Study of 87 Cases

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective study.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the prognosis and surgical outcomes of patients with spinal metastasis from lung cancer undergoing surgical treatment.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The spine is the most common site of metastatic lesions in patients with lung cancer. There have been a few studies, all small cohorts studying prognosis and surgical outcomes and the results were discordant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study on a prospectively collected database was conducted. Data collected were the following: age, tobacco use, tumor histology, American Spinal Injury Association score, revised Tokuhashi score, ambulatory status, perioperative complications, postoperative adjuvant treatment, and survival time. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the prognostic factors of survival.

RESULTS

The authors studied 87 patients with a mean age of 61.3±1.9 years. Median survival was 4.1±0.8 months. Twenty-eight patients (32.2%) lived >6 months and 14 patients (16.1%) lived >12 months. The medical complication rate was 13.8% and the surgical complication rate was 5.7%. The 30-day mortality rate was 4.6%. Univariate analysis showed tobacco use, revised Tokuhashi score, preoperative and postoperative American Spinal Injury Association score, postoperative walking ability, postoperative radiotherapy, and postoperative chemotherapy were prognostic factors. There was no significant difference in survival between adenoma lung cancers, nonadenoma lung cancers, and small cell lung cancers (P=0.51). Multivariate analysis revealed tobacco use, revised Tokuhashi score, postoperative walking ability, postoperative radiotherapy, and postoperative chemotherapy affected the survival.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest reported study of patients with spinal metastasis from lung cancer undergoing spinal surgery. It is the first study showing that tobacco use has a negative impact on survival. Spinal surgery improves the quality of life and offers nonambulatory patients a high chance of regaining walking ability with an acceptable risk of complications.

Prognostic scoring system for metastatic spine tumors derived from hepatocellular carcinoma

PURPOSE

The prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has recently improved, and so clinicians have greater opportunity to treat HCC-derived spinal metastases. Therefore, predicting life expectancy is important for determining the optimal treatment strategy for such tumors. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic factors for HCC-derived metastatic spine tumors and to develop a scoring system for predicting life expectancy in such cases.

METHODS

The posttreatment survival time and factors that might influence it were investigated in 62 patients with HCC-derived metastatic spine tumors who were treated at our department (surgery: 27 patients and conservative treatment: 35 patients), and a prognostic scoring system for predicting life expectancy was developed by combining the factors that significantly influenced survival.

RESULTS

In the univariate analyses, sex, the patient's general condition, the presence/absence of major internal organ metastasis, the total revised Tokuhashi score, the serum albumin level, Child-Pugh class, spinal surgery, and bone-modifying agent (BMA) treatment were found to influence the posttreatment survival time. These factors were subjected to multivariate analysis, and a novel scoring system for predicting life expectancy based on the patient's general condition, the serum albumin level (or Child-Pugh class), and BMA treatment was developed. In the retrospective analysis, the concordance rate between the patients' life expectancy and actual survival times was 90.3%.

CONCLUSION

The patient's general condition, the serum albumin level (or Child-Pugh class), and BMA treatment influenced the posttreatment survival times of patients with HCC-derived metastatic spine tumors. A prognostic scoring system based on these factors was proposed.

Impact of decompressive laminectomy on the functional outcome of patients with metastatic spinal cord compression and neurological impairment

Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is a frequent phenomenon in advanced tumor diseases with often severe neurological impairments. Affected patients are often treated by decompressive laminectomy. To assess the impact of this procedure on Karnofsky Performance Index (KPI) and Frankel Grade (FG) at discharge, a single center retrospective cohort study of neurologically impaired MSCC-patients treated with decompressive laminectomy between 2004 and 2014 was performed. 101 patients (27 female/74 male; age 66.1 ± 11.5 years) were identified. Prostate was the most common primary tumor site (40%) and progressive disease was present in 74%. At admission, 80% of patients were non-ambulatory (FG A–C). Imaging revealed prevalently thoracic MSCC (78%). Emergency surgery (< 24 h) was performed in 71% and rates of complications and revision surgery were 6% and 4%, respectively. At discharge, FG had improved in 61% of cases, and 51% of patients had regained ambulation. Univariate predictors for not regaining the ability to walk were bowl dysfunction (p = 0.0015), KPI < 50% (p = 0.048) and FG < C (p = 0.001) prior to surgery. In conclusion, decompressive laminectomy showed beneficial effects on the functional outcome at discharge. A good neurological status prior to surgery was key predictor for a good functional outcome.

Modified score based on revised Tokuhashi score is needed for the determination of surgical intervention in patients with lung cancer metastases to the spine

BACKGROUND

Revised Tokuhashi score (RTS) is no longer accurate to predict the survival of patients with lung cancer metastases to the spine. This study is to identify additional prognostic factors in those patients, develop a modified prognostic score based on RTS, and verify the accuracy of the score in prediction.

METHODS

Our study included patients with lung cancer metastases to the spine who underwent surgery for spine metastasis. Potential prognostic factors were analyzed. Points were allocated for prognostic factors obtained from survival analyses. A modified score was developed by including prognostic factors and their points to RTS. Accuracy of the modified score was evaluated by comparing the coincidence between predicted and observed survival. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression models were used. Predictive values of scores for 6-month survival were measured via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

Targeted therapy and tumor markers were additional independent prognostic factors. In the modified score, 2 and 1 points were allocated to the new evaluation factors. The points for factors based on RTS remained the same, and two prognostic groups were redefined. For group A patients who were predicted to live for less than 6 months, conservative procedures would be recommended. For group B patients who were predicted to live for 6 months or more, palliative surgery would be recommended. When comparing the modified score to RTS, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCROC) and accuracy of score were improved.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified RTS has improved prognostic accuracy in patients with lung cancer metastases to the spine.

Functional outcomes and survival after surgical stabilization for inoperable non-small-cell lung cancer with spinal metastasis of the thoracic and lumbar spines: a retrospective comparison between epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor and platinum-based chemotherapy groups

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the surgical results between targeted therapy and post-operative chemotherapy for patients with spinal metastasis of inoperable non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

SETTING

Single-center study at an academic orthopedic department in Taiwan.

METHODS

Sixty-five patients were treated surgically for spinal metastasis of inoperable NSCLC with long posterior instrumentation with or without posterior decompression according to the patient's neurologic status. Post-operative radiotherapy of the spinal lesion and targeted therapy or chemotherapy were done following surgery after the surgical wound healed. Post-operative clinical outcomes and survival were evaluated and compared between these two groups. The overall survival represented survival from the date of diagnosis to death.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients were grouped as the targeted therapy group and 30 patients as the chemotherapy group. The overall median survival times were 12.0 and 10.0 months in the targeted therapy and chemotherapy groups, respectively. Sixty-two patients were able to walk with or without an aid postoperatively. There was no significant difference observed between these two groups in terms of pain relief, neurologic improvement, ambulatory improvement, and survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical stabilization with or without laminectomy improved functional outcomes in patients with inoperable non-small-cell lung cancer, and post-operative functional outcomes were similar between chemotherapy and targeted therapy groups. A longer survival was observed with targeted therapy for the patients whose NSCLC was diagnosed before spinal metastasis, however, the longer survival was not statistically significant.

Prognostic Differences in Patients with Solitary and Multiple Spinal Metastases

Objectives

To investigate the association between the number of metastases to the spine and survival in patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC), as well as the prognosis difference between patients with solitary spinal metastasis (SSM) and multiple spinal metastases (MSM).

Methods

Three institutional databases were searched to identify all patients who had undergone spinal surgery for metastatic spinal tumors between March 2002 and June 2010. As well as age and gender, preoperative medical conditions were collected from medical records, including primary tumor, preoperative Frankel score, other bone metastases, preoperative Karnofsky performance status (KPS), number of involved vertebrae, pathological fracture metastasis site, serum albumin, sphincter dysfunction and the time of developing motor deficits before surgery. Survival data were obtained from medical records or via telephone follow‐ups. Univariate and multivariate predictors of overall survival for each group were assessed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The median postoperative survival time was 6.0 ± 0.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.8–7.2) in patients with SSM and 7.0 ± 1.0 months (95% CI 5.1–8.9) in patients with MSM (P = 0.238). The difference in survival was not significant between groups. Furthermore, univariate analysis showed that the number of spinal metastases had no significant association with survival (P = 0.075). Primary tumor (P = 0.004) and preoperative KPS (P < 0.001) were independent prognostic factors in the whole cohort; primary tumor (P = 0.020), time of developing motor deficit (P = 0.041) and preoperative KPS (P = 0.038) were independent prognostic factors in patients with SSM; while preoperative KPS (P = 0.001) and serum album level (P < 0.001) were independent prognostic factors in patients with MSM.

Conclusion

The number of spinal metastases has not proven to be useful in predicting the prognosis for patients with MSCC. Consequently, more aggressive operations should be considered for patients with multiple spinal metastases.

Establishment and validation of a novel survival prediction scoring algorithm for patients with non-small-cell lung cancer spinal metastasis

BACKGROUND

This study was to develop an algorithm capable of predicting the survival of patients with NSCLC spinal metastasis for individualized therapy.

METHODS

We identified 176 consecutive patients with NSCLC spinal metastasis between 2006 and 2017. Twenty-four features, including age, gender, smoking, KPS, paralysis, histological subtype, tumor stage, surgery, EGFR status, CEA, CA125, CA19-9, NSE, SCC, CYFRA21-1, calcium, AKP, albumin, the number of spinal, extra-spinal bone and visceral metastasis, time to metastasis, pathological fracture, and primary or secondary metastasis, were retrospectively analyzed. Features associated with survival in the multivariate analyses were included in a scoring model, which was prospectively validated in another 63 patients (NCT03363685).

RESULTS

The median follow-up period was 12.00 months (interquartile range 6.00-23.40 months). One hundred forty-seven patients died during follow-up, with a median survival of 13.6 months being observed. Multivariate analysis revealed that the following features were associated with survival: age, smoking, CA125, SCC, KPS, and EGFR status. A scoring system based on these features was created to stratify patients into low-risk (0-3), intermediate-risk (4-6) and high-risk (7-10) groups, whose estimated median survival times 29.10, 10.40 and 3.90 months, respectively. The Harrell's c-index was 0.72. Model validation supported this model's validity and reproducibility.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with NSCLC spinal metastasis, survival was associated with age, smoking, CA125, SCC, KPS, and EGFR status. A validated scoring system based on these features was devised that can predict the survival times of those patients. This scoring system provides a basis for applying the NOMS framework and for facilitating individual treatment.

Prognostic value of serum alkaline phosphatase in spinal metastatic disease

Background

Determination of the appropriateness of invasive management in patients with spinal metastatic disease requires accurate pre-operative estimation of survival. The purpose of this study was to examine serum alkaline phosphatase as a prognostic marker in spinal metastatic disease.

Methods

Chart reviews from two tertiary care centres were used to identify spinal metastatic disease patients. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine if serum alkaline phosphatase was an independent prognostic marker for survival.

Results

Overall, 732 patients were included with 90-day and 1-year survival of n = 539 (74.9%) and n = 324 (45.7%), respectively. The 1-year survival of patients in the first quartile of alkaline phosphatase (≤73 IU/L) was 78 (57.8%) compared to 31 (24.0%) for patients in the fourth quartile (>140 IU/L). Preoperative serum alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly elevated in patients with multiple spine metastases, non-spine bone metastasis, and visceral metastasis but not in patients with brain metastasis. On multivariate analysis, elevated serum alkaline phosphatase was identified as an independent prognostic factor for survival in spinal metastatic disease.

Conclusion

Serum alkaline phosphatase is associated with preoperative metastatic tumour burden and is a biomarker for overall survival in spinal metastatic disease.

Prognostic effect of factors involved in revised Tokuhashi score system for patients with spinal metastases: a systematic review and Meta-analysis

Background

Cancer patients’ survival time has obviously improved, with the development of systemic treatment techniques. However, the probability of metastases to the vertebrae has also been increased which makes some adverse effects on patients’ quality of life. The prediction of survival plays a key role in choosing therapeutic modality, and Tokuhashi Score was established as one of the most commonly used predictive systems for spinal metastases. Thus, this study was conducted to identify the prognostic effect of factors involved in revised Tokuhashi Score (RTS).

Methods

Two investigators independently retrieved relevant literature on platforms of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library. We identified eligible studies through title/abstract and full-text perusing. Data was extracted including general information of studies, participants’ characteristics, therapeutic modality, overall survival and prognostic effect of factors. Hazard ratio (HR) for each factor was synthesized if available through fixed- or random-effect models as appropriate.

Results

A total of 63 eligible studies with 10,411 participants were identified. Overall, cases with thyroid cancer had the highest survival rate, while the ones with non-small cell lung cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma lived for the shorted survival time. Performance status, bone metastasis, number of involved vertebrae, visceral metastasis, primary tumor and neurological status were regarded as significant predictors in 71.4, 40.0, 18.2, 63.4, 73.1 and 44.7% of the involved studies respectively. Thirty-eight articles were included in meta-analysis, and prognostic effects of five factors (apart from primary tumor) were analyzed. Factors were all proved to be significant except comparisons between KPS (Karnofsky Performance Status) 10–40 VS. 50–70 and single VS. multiple spinal metastases.

Conclusion

All factors of RTS were significant on prognosis predicting and should be considered when choosing therapeutic modality for spinal metastases. What’s more, we believe that more accurate prognosis may be obtained after removal of the cut-offs for KPS 10–40 VS. 50–70 and single VS. multiple involved vertebrae.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-018-5139-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Influence of Histologic Subtype in Predicting Survival of Lung Cancer Patients With Spinal Metastases

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Recent advancements in systemic treatment of lung cancer have significantly improved the survival of patients with certain histolopathologic and molecular subtypes. Existing prognostic scores do not account for this and patients with lung cancer spinal metastases are grouped together as poor prognostic candidates, and consequently, some may be inappropriately denied palliative spine surgery.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to study whether the expected survival in patients with lung cancer spinal metastases is affected by histolopathologic and molecular subtypes in the context of modern systemic therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with histologically confirmed lung cancer treated for spinal metastases at our institution between 2001 and 2012. Patients' demographics, histopathologic details, treatment modalities, and survival data were collected. The primary outcome was survival from time of spinal metastases diagnosis. The Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the influence of tumor histology, molecular profile and treatment modality on survival. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was conducted to compare lung cancer subtypes, as well as various treatment regimens.

RESULTS

Out of 180 patients, 51 underwent surgery for spinal metastases. Female sex (P=0.019), absence of palsy (P=0.023), good Karnofsky performance scores (P<0.001), and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (P=0.002) were favorable prognostic factors. Patients who received systemic therapy, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors, platinum doublet chemotherapy, or both showed increased survival (P<0.01). The median survival time was 2.40 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.13-2.68] in the small cell lung cancer cohort, with no patients surviving past a year; 5.10 months (95% CI, 3.78-6.41) in the NSCLC cohort, with 25.9% 1-year survival; and 13.3 months (95% CI, 2.26-24.40) in adenocarcinoma patients who received both tyrosine kinase inhibitors and platinum doublet therapy, with 50.0% 1-year survival.

CONCLUSIONS

NSCLC, systemic therapy, female sex, absence of palsy and good Karnofsky performance scores are all independent favorable prognostic factors for patients with lung cancer spinal metastases. These should be routinely considered during prognostication.

Classification and scoring systems for metastatic spine tumors: a literature review

Introduction

Accurate evaluation of metastasis and life prognosis is essential for selecting a suitable therapeutic strategy for metastatic spine tumors owing to limitations in treatment options. For this purpose, various classification, evaluation, and scoring systems have been developed.

Methods

Classification, evaluation, and scoring systems for metastatic spine tumors reported to date were identified by performing a literature search on PubMed. We reviewed the most cited classifications and scorings before 2009, and all classifications and scorings reported after 2010 from the search results.

Results

Six classifications and 23 scorings were reviewed. The classification/evaluation methods are divided into 1) anatomical classification/evaluation methods, 2) evaluation methods for neurological symptoms/instability, and 3) scoring systems for predicting life expectancy. The first 2 were useful for the planning and evaluation of surgical indications. Scoring systems for life prognosis also permitted rough prediction of the outcomes and were useful for the selection of a suitable treatment. However, variation of the patient background, diversity of adopted prognostic factors, and the absence of scoring systems that could predict the outcome with an accuracy of 90% or higher introduced some limitations.

Conclusion

The identified classification, evaluation, and scoring systems have been generally useful for treatment strategies. However, we emphasize the necessity of multidisciplinary development and revision of classification and evaluation methods to adapt to the prolongation of survival associated with increased diversity and improvement of treatment options.

Prognostic Factors and Comparison of Conservative Treatment, Percutaneous Vertebroplasty, and Open Surgery in the Treatment of Spinal Metastases from Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

Spinal metastases from lung cancer could result in life-threatening consequences. Few studies report the prognostic factors and compare different treatments in patients with spinal metastases from lung cancer.

METHODS

From 2005 to 2014, we retrospectively reviewed and studied 140 patients with spinal metastases from lung cancer according to different treatments. To estimate overall survival and identify prognostic factors for survival, the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis were adopted. In addition, the Kaplan-Meier method was used to compare different treatments for overall survival.

RESULTS

All patients in a conservative group and a percutaneous vertebroplasty group died at a median survival time of 7 months for both groups. As for patients in the open-surgery group, 42 patients died at a median of 11 months, and 7 patients who were still alive at the time of this study were followed for a median of 29 months. Multivariate analysis suggested that better survival was significantly associated with American Spinal Injury Association grade D/E on admission, American Spinal Injury Association grade E after surgery, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 1-2, and adjuvant radiation therapy in all 3 groups. In addition, Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the overall survival rate of the open-surgery group (14.3%) was better than that of conservative group (0%) and the percutaneous vertebroplasty group (0%).

CONCLUSIONS

A better overall survival outcome might be achieved by a series of comprehensive and individualized treatments and personalized treatment.

Clinical Characteristics and Prognostic Factors in Bone Metastases from Lung Cancer

Background

This study investigated the prognostic factors of bone metastases from lung cancer.

Material/Methods

From March 2014 to March 2015, 168 patients with bone metastases from lung cancer treated at our hospital were included and the clinical data were reviewed. The Kaplan-Meier survival curves were calculated and analyzed using the log-rank univariate test. Multivariate regression analysis was conducted using Cox’s regression model.

Results

The overall median survival of the 168 patients was 13 months. The 1-year survival was 54.3% and the 2-year survival was 12.9%. Univariate regression analysis indicated that the pathologic types, number of bone metastases, clinical stage, ECOG scores, and serum ALP levels were significantly correlated with survival (P<0.05). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that the number of bone metastases, clinical stage, and serum ALP levels were significantly correlated with prognosis (P<0.05). The risk associated with multiple bone metastases was 1.72 times of that of single bone metastasis (P=0.029); the risk associated with advanced clinical stage was 1.49 times of that of early clinical stage (P=0.001); and the risk associated with a high serum ALP level was 1.75 times of that of the low serum ALP level (P=0.006).

Conclusions

Pathologic types, number of bone metastases, clinical stage, ECOG scores, and serum ALP levels were the prognostic factors for bone metastases from lung cancer.

Prognostic factors in patients with spinal metastasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Incidence of symptomatic spinal metastasis has increased owing to improvement in treatment of the disease. One of the key factors that influences decision-making is expected patient survival. To our knowledge, no systematic reviews or meta-analysis have been conducted that review independent prognostic factors in spinal metastases.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine independent prognostic factors that affect outcome in patients with metastatic spine disease.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of publications for prognostic factors in spinal metastatic disease.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Pooled patient results from cohort and observational studies.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENT

Meta-analysis for poor prognostic factors as determined by hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidential interval (95% CI).

METHODS

We systematically searched relevant publications in PubMed and Embase. The following search terms were used: ("'spinal metastases'" OR "'vertebral metastases'" OR ""spinal metastasis" OR 'vertebral metastases') AND ('"prognostic factors"' OR "'survival'"). Inclusion criteria were prospective and retrospective cohort series that report HR and 95% CI of independent prognostic factors from multivariate analysis. Two reviewers independently assessed all papers. The quality of included papers was assessed by using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort studies and publication bias was assessed by using funnel plot, Begg test, and Egger test. The prognostic factors that were mentioned in at least three publications were pooled. Meta-analysis was performed using HR and 95% CI as the primary outcomes of interest. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² method.

RESULTS

A total of 3,959 abstracts (1,382 from PubMed and 2,577 from Embase) were identified through database search and 40 publications were identified through review of cited publications. The reviewers selected a total of 51 studies for qualitative synthesis and 43 studies for meta-analysis. Seventeen poor prognostic factors were identified. These included presence of a neurologic deficit before surgery, non-ambulatory status before radiotherapy (RT), non-ambulatory status before surgery, presence of bone metastases, presence of multiple bone metastases (>2 sites), presence of multiple spinal metastases (>3 sites), development of motor deficit in <7 days before initiating RT, development of motor deficit in <14 days before initiating RT, time interval from cancer diagnosis to RT <15 months, Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS) 10-40, KPS 50-70, KPS<70, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) grade 3-4, male gender, presence of visceral metastases, moderate growth tumor on Tomita score (TS) classification, and rapid growth tumor on TS classification.

CONCLUSIONS

Seventeen independent poor prognostic factors were identified in this study. These can be categorized into cancer-specific and nonspecific prognostic factors. A tumor-based prognostic scoring system that combines all specific and general factors may enhance the accuracy of survival prediction in patients with metastatic spine disease.

Overall survival and prognostic factors in patients with spinal metastases from lung cancer treated with and without epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Evaluation of the prognosis in patients with spinal metastases is important in decision making regarding surgical treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate overall survival in patients with spinal metastases from lung cancer by histological subtype, and to investigate prognostic factors in patients treated with and without epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).

METHODS

The data from 135 patients diagnosed with spinal metastases from lung cancer were retrospectively evaluated. The 88 patients with adenocarcinoma were divided into two groups according to whether the lung cancer was treated with or without EGFR-TKIs-the EGFR-TKI group (n = 43) and the non-EGFR-TKI group (n = 45).

RESULTS

The overall median survival time was 11.3 months for those with adenocarcinoma, 5.3 months for squamous cell carcinoma, and 3.9 months for small cell carcinoma. Overall survival in the EGFR-TKI group (median 21.4 months) was significantly longer than in the non-EGFR-TKI group (median 6.1 months). In univariate analysis, poor performance status was a poor prognostic factor in the non-EGFR-TKI group. However, performance status and other variables were not significant prognostic factors in the EGFR-TKI group.

CONCLUSIONS

Median overall survival was longer in patients with spinal metastases from lung cancer treated with EGFR-TKIs compared with those treated without EGFR-TKIs. Poor performance status or other prognostic factors were not associated with poor overall survival in the group treated with EGFR-TKIs.

Surgical intervention for vertebral metastases may benefit lung cancer patients no less than other patients: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Spinal metastasis is considered to have a worse prognosis in lung cancer than in other cancers, but recent clinical studies report improved overall survival of lung cancer. We compared the postoperative prognoses of vertebral metastatic tumors from lung with other types of cancer.

METHODS

From 2011 to 2015, 31 Japanese patients (mean age 73 years, range 55-88 years; 19 males, 12 females) underwent surgery for spinal metastasis at our center. We observed patients retrospectively in March 2016, dividing them into groups by cancer type: lung (LK group, n = 10); prostate, breast, or thyroid (PB group, n = 12); and other (OT group, n = 9). We compared survival and revised Tokuhashi score, which provides a basis for choosing a treatment course. Neurologic status was graded before and after surgery using the Frankel system.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 16.5 months (range 1-62 months). Only seven of 31 patients (22.6%) were alive at final follow-up. Frankel grade significantly improved postoperatively only in the LK (P = 0.01) and PB (P = 0.048) groups. Revised Tokuhashi score differed across groups (P < 0.0001), and was significantly lower in the LK group than in the PB group (P = 0.00) and OT group (P = 0.02). Postoperative survival was significantly shorter in the LK group than in the PB group (P = 0.01) but did not differ between the LK and OT groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The revised Tokuhashi score may underestimate the survival of lung cancer patients, who may derive the same benefit from surgical intervention as those with vertebral metastasis from other cancer types.

A Systematic Review of Clinical Outcomes and Prognostic Factors for Patients Undergoing Surgery for Spinal Metastases Secondary to Breast Cancer

STUDY DESIGN

Review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE

Surgery and cement augmentation procedures are effective palliative treatment of symptomatic spinal metastases. Our objective is to systematically review the literature to describe the survival, prognostic factors, and clinical outcomes of surgery and cement augmentation procedures for breast cancer metastases to the spine.

METHODS

We performed a literature review using PubMed to identify articles that reported outcomes and/or prognostic factors of the breast cancer patient population with spinal metastases treated with any surgical technique since 1990.

RESULTS

The median postoperative survival for metastatic breast cancer was 21.7 months (8.2 to 36 months), the mean rate of any pain improvement was 92.9% (76 to 100%), the mean rate of neurologic improvement was 63.8% (53 to 100%), the mean rate of neurologic decline was 4.1% (0 to 8%), and the local tumor control rate was 92.6% (89 to 100%). Kyphoplasty studies reported a high rate of pain control in selected patients. Negative prognostic variables included hormonal (estrogen and progesterone) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) receptor refractory tumor status, high degree of axillary lymph node involvement, and short disease-free interval (DFI). All other clinical or prognostic parameters were of low or insufficient strength.

CONCLUSION

With respect to clinical outcomes, surgery consistently yielded neurologic improvements in patients presenting with a deficit with a minimal risk of worsening; however, negative prognostic factors associated with shorter survival following surgery include estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor negativity, HER2 negativity, and a short DFI.

Evaluation of Scoring Systems and Prognostic Factors in Patients With Spinal Metastases From Lung Cancer

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study of 180 patients with lung cancer spinal metastases, wherein prognostic score-predicted survival was compared with actual survival.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare the accuracy of prognostic scoring systems in lung cancer spinal metastases.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The modified Tokuhashi, Tomita, modified Bauer, and Oswestry scores are currently used to guide decisions regarding operative treatment of patients with spinal metastases. The best system for predicting survival in patients with lung cancer spinal metastases remains undetermined. The high incidence of spinal metastases from lung cancer and improved survival of patients treated with systemic therapy warrants evaluation of these scoring systems in this particular context.

METHODS

Patients with lung cancer spinal metastases treated at our institution between May 2001 and August 2012 were studied. Fifty-one patients were treated surgically. The primary outcome measure was survival from the time of diagnosis. Scoring-predicted survival was compared with actual survival. Potential prognostic factors were investigated using Cox regression analyses. Predictive values of each scoring system for 3- and 6-month survival were measured via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

Histological subtype (P = 0.015), sex (P = 0.001), Karnofsky performance scale (P = 0.001), extent of neurological palsy (P = 0.002), and visceral metastases (P = 0.037) are significant predictors of survival. Besides the Oswestry spinal risk index, no significant differences were found between different prognostic subgroups within the individual scoring systems. Although the modified Bauer score was most accurate, all four scoring systems had areas under the ROC curve 0.5 or less.

CONCLUSION

Although better prognostic scores correlated with longer survival, all four scoring systems are inaccurate in prognosticating patients with lung cancer spinal metastases. Specific lung cancer histology appears prognostic and should be considered, especially given the increased survival of patients receiving new targeted therapies appropriate to their disease.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Factors Associated with Life Expectancy in Patients with Metastatic Spine Disease from Adenocarcinoma of the Lung

Study Design Retrospective study. Objective Our objective was to identify preoperative prognostic factors associated with survival in patients with spinal metastasis from lung carcinoma. Methods A retrospective analysis of 26 patients diagnosed with lung carcinoma metastatic to the spinal column was performed to determine factors associated with survival. We used 3 months survival as the clinical cutoff for whether surgical intervention should be performed. We analyzed patients who survived less than 3 months compared with those who survived more than 3 months. Demographic, preoperative, operative, and postoperative factors including functional scores were collected for analysis. Results The median survival for all patients in our study was 3.5 months. We found a statistically significant difference between the group that survived less than 3 months and the group that survived greater than 3 months in terms of extrathoracic metastasis, visceral metastasis, and average postoperative modified Rankin score. Conclusion Determining which patients with lung cancer spinal metastases will benefit from surgical intervention is often dictated by the patient's predicted life expectancy. Factors associated with poorer prognosis include age, functional status, visceral metastases, and extrathoracic metastases. Although the prognosis for patients with lung cancer spinal metastases is poor, some patients may experience long-term benefit from surgical intervention.

Which one is a valuable surrogate for predicting survival between Tomita and Tokuhashi scores in patients with spinal metastases? A meta-analysis for diagnostic test accuracy and individual participant data analysis

This study is to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of Tokuhashi and Tomita scores that assures 6-month predicting survival regarded as a standard of surgical treatment. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, European PubMed central, and the Cochrane library for papers about the sensitivities and specificities of the Tokuhashi and/or Tomita scores to estimate predicting survival. Studies with cut-off values of ≥9 for Tokuhashi and ≤7 for Tomita scores based on prior studies were enrolled. Sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), area under the curve (AUC), and the best cut-off value were calculated via meta-analysis and individual participant data analysis. Finally, 22 studies were enrolled in the meta-analysis, and 1095 patients from 8 studies were included in the individual data analysis. In the meta-analysis, the pooled sensitivity/specificity/DOR for 6-month survival were 57.7 %/76.6 %/4.70 for the Tokuhashi score and 81.8 %/47.8 %/4.93 for Tomita score. The AUC of summary receiver operating characteristic plots was 0.748 for the Tokuhashi score and 0.714 for the Tomita score. Although Tokuhashi score was more accurate than Tomita score slightly, both showed low accuracy to predict 6 months residual survival. Moreover, the best cut-off values of Tokuhashi and Tomita scores were 8 and 6, not 9 and 7, for predicting 6-month survival, respectively. Estimation of 6-month predicting survival to decide surgery in patients with spinal metastasis is quite limited by using Tokuhashi and Tomita scores alone. Tokuhashi and Tomita scores could be incorporated as part of a multidisciplinary approach or perhaps interpreted in the context of a multidisciplinary approach.

Scoring system for prediction of metastatic spine tumor prognosis

Assessing the prognosis before treatment for metastatic spine tumor is extremely important in therapy selection. Therefore, we review some prognostic scoring systems and their outcomes. Articles with combinations of two keywords among “metastatic spine tumor” and “prognosis”, “score”, “scoring system”, “predicting”, or “life expectancy” were searched for in PubMed. As a result, 236 articles were extracted. Those referring to representative scoring systems about predicting the survival of patients with metastatic spine tumors were used. The significance and limits of these scoring systems, and the future perspectives were described. Tokuhashi score, Tomita score, Baur score, Linden score, Rades score, and Katagiri score were introduced. They are all scoring systems prepared by combining factors that affect prognosis. The primary site of cancer and visceral metastasis were common factors in all of these scoring systems. Other factors selected to influence the prognosis varied. They were useful to roughly predict the survival period, such as, “more than one year or not” or “more than six months or not”. In particular, they were utilized for decision-making about operative indications and avoidance of excessive medical treatment. Because the function depended on the survival period in the patients with metastatic spine tumor, it was also utilized in assessing functional prognosis. However, no scoring system had more than 90% consistency between the predicted and actual survival periods. Future perspectives should adopt more oncological viewpoints with adjustment of the process of treatment for metastatic spine tumor.

The Oswestry Risk Index: an aid in the treatment of metastatic disease of the spine

The revised Tokuhashi, Tomita and modified Bauer scores are commonly used to make difficult decisions in the management of patients presenting with spinal metastases. A prospective cohort study of 199 consecutive patients presenting with spinal metastases, treated with either surgery and/or radiotherapy, was used to compare the three systems. Cox regression, Nagelkerke's R(2) and Harrell's concordance were used to compare the systems and find their best predictive items. The three systems were equally good in terms of overall prognostic performance. Their most predictive items were used to develop the Oswestry Spinal Risk Index (OSRI), which has a similar concordance, but a larger coefficient of determination than any of these three scores. A bootstrap procedure was used to internally validate this score and determine its prediction optimism. The OSRI is a simple summation of two elements: primary tumour pathology (PTP) and general condition (GC): OSRI = PTP + (2 - GC). This simple score can predict life expectancy accurately in patients presenting with spinal metastases. It will be helpful in making difficult clinical decisions without the delay of extensive investigations.

Rehabilitation and treatment of spinal cord tumors

CONTEXT

Due to advances in acute oncological treatment, patients with spinal cord tumors exhibit improved survival. However, these patients have not received the full benefits of rehabilitation services to address their neurological deficits and rehabilitation goals.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the epidemiology and pathophysiology of spinal cord tumors, address methods of acute oncological management, review treatment for neurological sequelae, and understand the implications as they relate to rehabilitation.

METHODS

An extensive literature review was performed regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, acute oncological management, neurological sequelae, and rehabilitation for patients with spinal cord tumors. Databases used included pubmed.gov and OVID, as well as individual journal and textbook articles.

RESULTS

Access to treatment should be increased given improved survival and functional deficits for patients with spinal cord tumors. Individuals can benefit from inpatient rehabilitation programs, in spite of increased medical co-morbidity and neurological deficits. Specific areas of improvement include functionality, mood, quality of life, and survival. Adjustments to treatment plans must incorporate medical complications from cancer and its treatment, perceived quality of life, and prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with spinal cord tumors who participate in rehabilitation programs show general improvement in function, mood, quality of life, and survival. Adaptations to care plans should be made to accommodate medical co-morbidities from cancer and its treatment, patient perceptions, and prognosis.

Predicting survival for surgery of metastatic spinal cord compression in prostate cancer: a new score

STUDY DESIGN

We retrospectively analyzed prognostic factors for survival in patients with prostate cancer operated for metastatic spinal cord compression.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to obtain a clinical score for prediction of survival after surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Survival prognosis is important when deciding about treatment of patients with metastatic spinal cord compression. The criteria for identifying patients with prostate cancer who may benefit from surgical treatment are unclear.

METHODS

The study comprised 68 consecutive patients with prostate cancer operated for metastatic spinal cord compression at Umeå University Hospital, Sweden. The indication for surgery was neurological deficit; 53 patients had hormone-refractory prostate cancer and 15 patients had previously untreated, hormone-naïve prostate cancer. In 42 patients, posterior decompression was performed and 26 patients were operated with posterior decompression and stabilization.

RESULTS

A new score for prediction of survival was developed on the basis of the results of survival analyses. The score includes hormone status of prostate cancer, Karnofsky performance status, evidence of visceral metastasis, and preoperative serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The total scores ranged from 0 to 6. Three prognostic groups were formulated: group A (n = 32) with scores 0-1; group B (n = 23) with scores 2-4, and group C (n = 12) with scores 5-6. The median overall survival was 3 (0.3-20) months in group A, 16 (1.8-59) months in group B, and more than half (7 of 12) of patients were still alive in group C.

CONCLUSION

We present a new prognostic score for predicting survival of patients with prostate cancer after surgery for metastatic spinal cord compression. The score is easy to apply in clinical practice and may be used as additional support when making decision about treatment.

Comparing prognostic factors in patients with spinal metastases: a literature review

For cancer patients with spinal metastases, palliative treatments are directed toward improving the patient's symptoms and quality of life. The expected prognosis of patients plays a large role in guiding treatment decisions, particularly when deciding between surgical management and conservative treatments, such as radiotherapy. This study aims to review the factors that can accurately predict the survival of patients with spinal metastases. The authors conducted a literature search on studies identifying prognostic factors using PubMed (1966–2011), Ovid MEDLINE (1948 to July 2011) and EMBASE (1947–2011) databases. Articles in English were included if they conducted retrospective or prospective analyses on predictors of survival for patients with spinal metastases; articles validating or examining the accuracy of existing scoring systems using prognostic factors were also included. A total of 29 studies were identified. A general consensus of the literature was found with respect to three prognostic factors: the patient's primary cancer site, the extent of the metastases and the general condition or performance score. Further research is recommended to assess the prognostic value of other factors identified by several studies, including age, neurological deficit and previous treatments. For future studies, the authors encourage the development of models capable of inclusion of all patients with spinal metastases.

Radiation Therapy without Surgery for Spinal Metastases: Clinical Outcome and Prognostic Factors Analysis for Pain Control

The purpose of radiation therapy (RT) for patients with spinal metastases is pain relief and control of paralysis. The aim of the present study was to assess pain relief using RT and to evaluate prognostic factors for pain control. We evaluated 97 consecutive patients, of mean age 62.7 years (range 28 to 86), with spinal metastases that had been treated by RT. We evaluated the effects of RT using pain level assessed using a drug grading scale based on the World Health Organization standards. The following potential prognostic factors for pain control of RT were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis: age, gender, tumor type, performance status (PS), number of spinal metastases, and a history of chemotherapy. Among the 97 patients who underwent RT for pain relief, 68 patients (70.1%) presented with pain reduction. PS (odds ratio: 1.931; 95% confidence interval: 1.244 to 2.980) was revealed by multivariate logistic regression analysis to be the most important prognostic factor for pain control using RT. In conclusion, we found that RT was more effective for patients with spinal metastases while they maintained their PS.

Predictive value of Tokuhashi scoring systems in spinal metastases, focusing on various primary tumor groups: evaluation of 448 patients in the Aarhus spinal metastases database

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 448 patients with spinal metastases from a variety of cancer groups.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the specific predictive value of the Tokuhashi scoring system (T12) and its revised version (T15) in spinal metastases of various primary tumors.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The life expectancy of patients with spinal metastases is one of the most important factors in selecting the treatment modality. Tokuhashi et al formulated a prognostic scoring system with a total sum of 12 points for preoperative prediction of life expectancy in 1990 and revised it in 2005 to a total sum of 15 points. There is a lack of knowledge about the specific predictive value of those scoring systems in patients with spinal metastases from a variety of cancer groups.

METHODS

We included 448 patients with vertebral metastases who underwent surgical treatment during November 1992 to November 2009 in Aarhus University Hospital NBG. Data were retrieved from Aarhus Metastases Database. Scores based on T12 and T15 were calculated prospectively for each patient. We divided all the patients into different groups dictated by the site of their primary tumor. Predictive value and accuracy rate of the 2 scoring systems were compared in each cancer group.

RESULTS

Both the T12 and T15 scoring systems showed statistically significant predictive value when the 448 patients were analyzed in total (T12, P < 0.0001; T15, P < 0.0001). The accuracy rate was significantly higher in T15 (P < 0.0001) than in T12. The further analyses by primary cancer groups showed that the predictive value of T12 and T15 was primarily determined by the prostate (P = 0.0003) and breast group (P = 0.0385). Only T12 displayed predictive value in the colon group (P = 0.0011). Neither of the scoring systems showed significant predictive value in the lung (P > 0.05), renal (P > 0.05), or miscellaneous primary tumor groups (P > 0.05). The accuracy rate of prognosis in T15 was significantly improved in the prostate (P = 0.0032) and breast group (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Both T12 and T15 showed significant predictive value in patients with spinal metastases. T15 has a statistically higher accuracy rate than T12. Among the various cancer groups, the 2 scoring systems are especially reliable in prostate and breast metastases groups. T15 is recommended as superior to T12 because of its higher accuracy rate.

Analysis of prognostic factors relating to postoperative survival in spinal metastases

Objective

To analyze the prognostic factors thought to be related with survival time after a spinal metastasis operation.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 217 patients who underwent spinal metastasis operations in our hospital from 2001 to 2009. Hematological malignancies, such as multiple myeloma and lymphoma, were excluded. The factors thought to be related with postoperative survival time were gender, age (below 55, above 56), primary tumor growth rate (slow, moderate, rapid group), spinal location (cervical, thoracic, and lumbo-sacral spine), the timing of radiation therapy (preoperative, postoperative, no radiation), operation type (decompressive laminectomy with or without posterior fixation, corpectomy with anterior fusion, corpectomy with posterior fixation), preoperative systemic condition (below 5 points, above 6 points classified by Tomita scoring), pre- and postoperative ambulatory function (ambulatory, non-ambulatory), number of spinal metastases (single, multiple), time to spinal metastasis from the primary cancer diagnosis (below 21 months, above 22 months), and postoperative complication.

Results

The study cohort mean age at the time of surgery was 55.5 years. The median survival time after spinal operation and spinal metastasis diagnosis were 6.0 and 9.0 months. In univariate analysis, factors such as gender, primary tumor growth rate, preoperative systemic condition, and preoperative and postoperative ambulatory status were shown to be related to postoperative survival. In multivariate analysis, statistically significant factors were preoperative systemic condition (p=0.048) and postoperative ambulatory status (p<0.001). The other factors had no statistical significance.

Conclusion

The factors predictive for postoperative survival time should be considered in the surgery of spinal metastasis patients.

Surgery followed by radiotherapy for the treatment of metastatic epidural spinal cord compression from breast cancer

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of breast cancer patients with metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC) undergoing surgery and radiation therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess feasibility and clinical outcome of multidisciplinary approach in breast cancer patients with MESCC.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Studies so far published in the setting of surgery and/or radiotherapy in the management of MESCC usually included many malignancies, without considering the different primary histology. However, when looking at prognostic variables of this therapy, histological type comes out as a major determinant of outcome.

METHODS

Twenty-three patients with symptomatic MESCC from breast cancer treated between January 2004 and April 2009 were included in this analysis. Twenty-six surgical procedures followed by radiotherapy were performed. Clinical outcome and local recurrence was evaluated by modified visual analog scale for pain, Frankel scale for neurologic deficit, and magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography scans. Twenty-three cases (88.4%) had back pain before treatment with a visual analog scale score 6 or greater; neurologic deficit (FS A-D) was present in 19 cases (65.5%).

RESULTS

Complete remission of pain, lasting until death or progression of disease in another skeletal site, was obtained in 25/26 cases (96.1%). All patients had complete recovery of neurologic deficit. No major morbidity occurred. No patients had recurrence in the site of treatment. Median survival was 36 months (range, 3-60) and overall survival at one, three, and five years was 70%, 42%, and 34%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We provided evidence of surgery and radiotherapy to be feasible with limited morbidity. Clinical outcome has been highly satisfactory in terms of pain and local disease control. The discussion of each case within a multidisciplinary team is of central importance in defining the most appropriate therapeutic approach.

Actual and predicted survival time of patients with spinal metastases of lung cancer: evaluation of the robustness of the Tokuhashi score

STUDY DESIGN

In a retrospective analysis we evaluated the achieved and the predicted survival times according to the Tokuhashi score for patients with spinal metastases of lung cancer (lc).

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to investigate the robustness of the Tokuhashi Score for this group of patients.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The decision on operative versus conservative treatment for cancer patients with vertebral metastases depend on their predicted lifespan. Although the score of Tokuhashi is commonly used for prognostic predictions, it's reliability for specific tumor types (e.g., lc), has not been validated.

METHODS

Seventy-six patients who had undergone spinal surgery for lc metastases between 1999 and 2004 were verified according to the Tokuhashi score and predicted versus achieved survival times were compared.

RESULTS

The median overall survival (OS) after surgery for all patients was 108 (3-1767) days (102 [5-1767] days for patients with NSCLC [n = 49; 64.5%] and 108 [3-473] days for patients with SCLC [n = 24; 31.6%]). Survival times differed depending on the time period of procedure performance (OS 81 [3-435] days for patients operated between 1999 and 2001 [n = 38], 135 [8-1767] days for patients who received surgery between 2002 and 2004 [n = 38]). Actual and predicted survival were similar in 51 of 76 cases (67.1%), while there was no correlation in 25 of 76 (32.9%) cases. Results were comparable for all histologic subgroups.

CONCLUSION

Although the survival time of patients with vertebral metastases from lc has increased over the last 10 years, the overall outcome is still poor. For the prediction of an individual prognosis in the group of lc patients the score of Tokuhashi seems to be a suboptimal tool. We conclude that therapeutic decisions for such patients should be made based on interdisciplinary platforms, especially in the light of improved systemic treatment options.

A prospective analysis of prognostic factors in patients with spinal metastases: use of the revised Tokuhashi score

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective observational cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To define the utility of the revised Tokuhashi score in relation to predicting survival in patients with spinal metastases regardless of the treatment pathway.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The revised Tokuhashi score has been used for the prediction of survival. In this scoring system, however, all the patients were sourced by orthopedic surgeons, and asymptomatic patients were excluded. That might present a significant source of patient selection bias. The treatment plan was also affected by the predicted survival in their system.

METHODS

All patients within 2 years of diagnosis of spinal metastases, whether symptomatic were recruited. Minimum 1-year follow-up was required. During the study period, a total of 85 patients were analyzed including 44 patients who died within 1 year. The relation between the revised Tokuhashi score and survival were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazard model and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean age was 60.3 years (range: 35-84) and the median survival was 11.6 months. On multivariate analysis, lower performance status (Karnofsky performance status, 50%-70%) and unresectable organ metastases were significantly associated with poor survival, with hazard ratios of 2.92 and 4.44, respectively. In primary cancer type, lung and kidney cancer were also significantly associated with poor survival, with hazard ratios of 4.25 and 2.60, respectively. The revised Tokuhashi score groups were significantly correlated with the survival groups (ρ = 0.530, P < 0.001). In 67 (79%) of 85 patients, actual survival matched the predicted survival.

CONCLUSION

Lower score on performance status, the existence of organ metastases, and primary cancer of the lung and the kidney were significantly associated with poor survival. The revised Tokuhashi score was found to be very useful to predict survival regardless of the treatment pathway. In most patients, actual survival matched their predicted survival.

Metastatic paraplegia and vital prognosis: perspectives and limitations for rehabilitation care. Part 1

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the vital prognosis of patients with metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC) to determine the relevance and duration of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) admission.

DATA SOURCES

Publications from 1980 to January 2010 selected from 3 databases.

STUDY SELECTION

Publications reporting data correlated with survival and prognosis factors, highlighting publications with level A scientific evidence (prospective randomized controlled studies with significant casuistry and relevant judgment criteria). The work focused on patients with MESCC below T1.

DATA EXTRACTION

Standardized reading grid.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Thirty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Most were retrospective. For survival rate at 1 year, they reported data ranging from 12% to 58%. The 12-month and median survival rates were the data reported most often in the articles. The median survival rate ranged from 2.4 to 30 months, and 12-month survival rates ranged from 12% to 58%. Of publications that chose this parameter, 95% reported 12-month survival rates less than 55.2% (95th percentile) regardless of patients' functional status and associated risk factors (eg, location of primary cancer, metastases spreading, pretreatment ambulatory status).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite major progress in cancer care, patients with MESCC still have a limited vital prognosis. The relevance and duration of PM&R care must be evaluated against the patient's functional need for rehabilitation while making time for family. The hypothesis of a 1-month stay extended only once appears reasonable for patients to adapt to their new functional status without taking precious time away from their loved ones.

Predictors of survival in surgically treated patients of spinal metastasis

BACKGROUND

The spinal metastasis occurs in up to 40% of cancer patient. We compared the Tokuhashi and Tomita scoring systems, two commonly used scoring systems for prognosis in spinal metastases. We also assessed the different variables separately with respect to their value in predicting postsurgical life expectancy. Finally, we suggest criteria for selecting patients for surgery based on the postoperative survival pattern.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 102 patients who had been operated for metastatic disease of the spine. Predictive scoring was done according to the scoring systems proposed by Tokuhashi and Tomita. Overall survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Using the log rank test and Cox regression model we assessed the value of the individual components of each scoring system for predicting survival in these patients.

RESULT

The factors that were most significantly associated with survival were the general condition score (Karnofsky Performance Scale) (P=.000, log rank test), metastasis to internal organs (P=.0002 log rank test), and number of extraspinal bone metastases (P=.0058). Type of primary tumor was not found to be significantly associated with survival according to the revised Tokuhashi scoring system (P=.9131, log rank test). Stepwise logistic regression revealed that the Tomita score correlated more closely with survival than the Tokuhashi score.

CONCLUSION

The patient's performance status, extent of visceral metastasis, and extent of bone metastases are significant predictors of survival in patients with metastatic disease. Both revised Tokuhashi and Tomita scores were significantly correlated with survival. A revised Tokuhashi score of 7 or more and a Tomita score of 6 or less indicated >50% chance of surviving 6 months postoperatively. We recommend that the Tomita score be used for prognostication in patients who are contemplating surgery, as it is simpler to score and has a higher strength of correlation with survival than the Tokuhashi score.

Preoperative scoring systems and prognostic factors for patients with spinal metastases from hepatocellular carcinoma

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study had been conducted to compare the existing preoperative scoring systems and to find useful prognostic factors for patients with spinal metastases from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate different preoperative scoring systems and prognostic factors for patients with spinal metastases from HCC.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Different scoring systems for metastatic spinal tumor have been designed for prognostic evaluation. However, these scoring systems were formulated from many different types of tumors, so that their efficacy for a certain type of cancer needs to be validated. Furthermore, some serologic test results may enhance the accuracy of the scoring system.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate 4 prognostic scoring systems and factors in a series of 41 cases with spinal metastases from HCC in a single center. These scoring systems include Tokuhashi revised score, Tomita score, Bauer score, and a revised van der Linden score by the authors. Serologic test items including serum albumin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The revised Tokuhashi scoring system provided statistically significant differences in survival time between different groups (P = 0.012), while the Tomita and Bauer systems did not show statistically significant differences (P = 0.918 and P = 0.754, respectively). Significantly improved survival was found in patients with good performance status and no visceral metastases (Group C, P = 0.008) in revised van der Linden scores. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed serum albumin and LDH were independent prognostic factors for survival time.

CONCLUSION

Revised Tokuhashi scoring system is practicable and highly predictive, while serum albumin and LDH also have prognostic value in patients with spinal metastases from HCC, especially those without visceral metastases. More accurate prognosis may be obtained if the scoring systems include clinical and laboratory data in future.

Outcome of Surgical Treatment for Metastatic Vertebra Bone Tumor in Advanced Lung Cancer

Background

Spinal metastases of patients with advanced stage lung cancer are an important target for palliative therapy, because their incidence is high, and they often cause severe symptoms and worsen the quality of life. Surgery is one of the most effective treatment options, but the indication of surgery is unclear as the procedure is invasive and patients with spinal metastasis have a rather short life expectancy. Furthermore, there have been few studies that have focused on lung cancer with poor prognosis.

Methods

We reviewed all of the cases of lung cancer from January 1999 to July 2007 in the Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kyoto University Hospital, Japan. Thirteen patients with metastatic spinal tumor of lung cancer underwent surgery, and all of them had a poor performance status score (3 or 4).

Results

Neurological improvement by at least 1 Frankel grade was seen in 10 of 14 cases (71%). Improvement of the movement capacity was noted in 9 of 14 cases (64%), and pain improvement was noted in 12 of 14 (86%). Median postoperative survival was 5 months (1–25 months). In particular, the group with a good postoperative performance status score (0–2) was shown to have a better median postoperative survival of 13 months.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment for symptomatic metastatic spinal tumor of lung cancer can improve quality of life in a substantially high percentage of patients. Surgery should be considered even if preoperative performance status is poor.

The value of palliative surgery for metastatic spinal disease: satisfaction of patients and their families

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Although there have been several studies in which the surgical outcomes were evaluated by pain reduction or neurological improvement, there have been few studies focused on the quality of life (QOL) of the patients after the surgery. We considered that the most important consideration in palliative surgery was to respect the wishes of patients and their families, which are likely to be influenced by the patients' QOL for their limited life span.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the value of palliative surgery for spinal metastasis and to identify the factors predicting satisfaction of patients and their families after the surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Questionnaire-based survey of palliative surgery for spinal metastasis.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Seventy-one consecutive patients who had undergone palliative surgery and their families.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Survival period after surgery, neurological status, ambulatory period, pain scale, and satisfaction of patients and their families.

METHODS

The QOL of the patients after surgery was evaluated by analyzing the satisfaction and related parameters of patients and their families. Questionnaires were sent to 71 consecutive patients who had undergone palliative surgery for spinal metastasis. To identify the factors predicting satisfaction of patients and their families, multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Questionnaires were successfully delivered to 71 patients or their families. Full responses were collected from 37 patients, giving an overall response rate of 52.2%. Overall, 80% of patients were satisfied with the results of the surgical treatment. Age (below 65 years) and neurological improvement after surgery were significant predictors of patient's satisfaction. Pain reduction and the continued survival of the patient were significant predictors of family member's satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

These results strongly suggested that palliative surgery is a valuable treatment for metastatic spinal disease. Younger patients were more likely to want active treatment and to seek any functional improvement that contributed to an improved QOL in their limited life span. Pain control and the length of patient survival were important factors for people caring for patients.

Surgical management of prostate cancer metastatic to the spine

Object

Significant improvements in neurological function and pain relief are the benefits of aggressive surgical management of spinal metastatic disease. However, there is limited literature regarding the management of tumors with specific histological features. In this study, a series of patients undergoing spinal surgery for metastatic prostate cancer were reviewed to identify predictors of survival and functional outcome.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients who were treated with surgery for prostate cancer metastases to the spine between 1993 and 2005 at a single institution. Particular attention was given to initial presentation, operative management, clinical and neurological outcomes, and factors associated with complications and overall survival.

Results

Forty-four patients underwent a total of 47 procedures. The median age at spinal metastasis was 66 years (range 50–84 years). Twenty-four patients had received previous external-beam radiation to the site of spinal involvement, with a median dose of 70 Gy (range 30–74 Gy). Frankel scores on discharge were significantly improved when compared with preoperative scores (p = 0.001). Preoperatively, 32 patients (73%) were walking and 33 (75%) were continent. On discharge, 36 (86%) of 42 patients were walking, and 37 (88%) of 42 were continent. Preoperatively, 40 patients (91%) were taking narcotics, with a median morphine equivalent dose of 21.5 mg/day, and 28 patients (64%) were taking steroids, with a median dose of 16 mg/day. At discharge, the median postoperative morphine equivalent dose was 12 mg/day, and the median steroid dose was 0 mg/day (p < 0.001). Complications occurred in 15 (32%) of 47 procedures, with 9 (19%) considered major, and there were 4 deaths within 30 days of surgery. The median overall survival was 5.4 months. Gleason score (p = 0.002), total number of metastases (p = 0.001), and the degree of spinal canal compression (p = 0.001) were independent predictors of survival. Age ≥ 65 years at the time of surgery was an independent predictor of a postoperative complication (p = 0.005).

Conclusions

In selected patients with prostate cancer metastases to the spine, aggressive surgical decompression and spinal reconstruction is a useful treatment option. The results show that on average, neurological outcome is improved and use of analgesics is reduced. Gleason score, metastatic burden, and degree of spinal canal compression may be associated with survival following surgery, and thus should be considered carefully prior to opting for surgical management.

Fratura na coluna vertebral por mieloma múltiplo: correlação entre sobrevida e índices de Tomita e Tokuhashi

OBJETIVO: o mieloma múltiplo (MM) é a neoplasia óssea primária mais freqüente na coluna vertebral. Em razão da grande morbi-mortalidade destas lesões, discute-se qual o melhor tratamento nestes pacientes. Na prática, observamos similaridade das opções de tratamento entre os pacientes portadores de metástases ósseas e MM. Os índices de sobrevida de Tomita e Tokuhashi são utilizados com o intuito de auxiliar na escolha do tratamento nos portadores de metástases. Faltam estudos sobre a aplicabilidade destes índices em pacientes portadores de MM. Neste trabalho vamos avaliar a aplicabilidade dos índices de Tomita e Tokuhashi nos pacientes portadores de MM e lesão vertebral. MÉTODOS: estudo retrospectivo mediante avaliação de prontuários e radiografias de portadores de MM por meio da aplicação dos critérios de Tomita e Tokuhashi. RESULTADOS: em um ano, 19 (63,3%) estavam vivos, em dois anos 13 (43,3%) e em cinco anos quatro (13,3%) pacientes estavam vivos. Não houve correlação entre os índices (Tomita e Tokuhashi) e a taxa de sobrevida nestes pacientes (p= 0,2255). CONCLUSÃO: há necessidade de adaptação dos índices de Tomita e Tokuhashi para apresentarem aplicabilidade nos portadores de MM na coluna.

Predictors of ambulatory function after decompressive surgery for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression

OBJECTIVE

Metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC) is a relatively common and debilitating complication of metastatic disease that often results in neurological deficits. This study was designed to explore associations with maintaining and regaining ambulatory function after decompressive surgery for MESCC.

METHODS

Seventy-eight patients undergoing decompressive surgery for MESCC at an academic tertiary care institution between 1995 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. Fisher's exact analysis was used to compare preoperative ambulatory and nonambulatory patients. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify associations with either maintaining or regaining the ability to walk.

RESULTS

Patients were followed for 7.1 +/- 1.6 (mean +/- standard deviation) months after surgery. Preoperative nonambulatory patients required more extensive surgery (increased operative spinal levels and number of laminectomies) and had more surgical site complications (wound dehiscences and cerebrospinal fluid leaks) compared with preoperative ambulatory patients. From the multivariate analysis, preoperative ability to walk (relative risk [RR], 2.320; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.301-4.416; P < 0.01) independently increased the likelihood of ambulation at the last follow-up evaluation 2.3-fold. Pathological vertebral compression fracture at presentation (RR, 0.471; 95% CI, 0.235-0.864; P = 0.01) independently decreased the likelihood of ambulation at the time of the last follow-up evaluation 2.1-fold. For patients unable to walk at the time of surgery, preoperative radiation therapy (RR, 0.406; 95% CI, 0.124-0.927; P = 0.03) decreased the likelihood of regaining the ability to walk 2.5-fold. Symptoms present for less than 48 hours (RR, 2.925; 95% CI, 1.133-2.925; P = 0.02) and postoperative radiotherapy (RR, 2.595; 95% CI, 1.039-8.796; P = 0.04) independently increased the likelihood of regaining ambulatory ability 2.9- and 2.6-fold, respectively, by the time of last follow-up evaluation.

CONCLUSION

The identification of these associations with neurological outcome may help guide in the preservation or return of ambulation after surgery for patients with MESCC.