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Wilkinson MF, Galdino Chaves JP, Arroyo MV, Zarrabian M. Repeated L5 Nerve Root Compromise Detected with Motor Evoked Potentials (MEP), but Not Electromyography (EMG): A Case Report. Neurodiagn J 2024; 64:24-32. [PMID: 38437023 DOI: 10.1080/21646821.2024.2312098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
We report a case where neuromonitoring, using motor evoked potentials (MEP), detected an intraoperative L5 nerve root deficit during a lumbosacral decompression and instrumented fusion procedure. Critically, the MEP changes were not preceded nor accompanied by any significant spontaneous electromyography (sEMG) activity. Presumptive L5 innervated muscles, including tibialis anterior (TA), extensor hallucis longus (EHL) and gluteus maximus, were targets for nerve root surveillance using combined MEP and sEMG techniques. During a high-grade spondylolisthesis correction procedure, attempts to align a left-sided rod resulted in repeated loss and recovery cycles of MEP from the TA and EHL. No accompanying EMG alerts were associated with any of the MEP changes nor were MEP variations seen from muscles innervated above and below L5. After several attempts, the rod alignment was achieved, but significant MEP signal decrement (72% decrease) remained from the EHL. Postoperatively, the patient experienced significant foot drop on the left side that recovered over a period of 3 months. This case contributes to a growing body of evidence that exclusive reliance on sEMG for spinal nerve root scrutiny can be unreliable and MEP may provide more dependable data on nerve root patency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marshall F Wilkinson
- Section of Neurosurgery, University of Manitoba and Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Jennyfer P Galdino Chaves
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Winnipeg Spine Program University of Manitoba and Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Miguel Vega Arroyo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Winnipeg Spine Program University of Manitoba and Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Mohammed Zarrabian
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Winnipeg Spine Program University of Manitoba and Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Reddy RP, Gorijala VK, Kaithi VR, Shandal V, Anetakis KM, Balzer JR, Crammond DJ, Shaw JD, Lee JY, Thirumala PD. Utility of transcranial motor-evoked potential changes in predicting postoperative deficit in lumbar decompression and fusion surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2023; 32:3321-3332. [PMID: 37626247 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-07879-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary aim of this study was to evaluate whether TcMEP alarms can predict the occurrence of postoperative neurological deficit in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery. The secondary aim was to determine whether the various types of TcMEP alarms including transient and persistent changes portend varying degrees of injury risk. METHODS This was a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature from PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase regarding outcomes of transcranial motor-evoked potential (TcMEP) monitoring during lumbar decompression and fusion surgery. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of TcMEP alarms for predicting postoperative deficit were calculated and presented with forest plots and a summary receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS Eight studies were included, consisting of 4923 patients. The incidence of postoperative neurological deficit was 0.73% (36/4923). The incidence of deficits in patients with significant TcMEP changes was 11.79% (27/229), while the incidence in those without changes was 0.19% (9/4694). All TcMEP alarms had a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 63 and 95% with a DOR of 34.92 (95% CI 7.95-153.42). Transient and persistent changes had sensitivities of 29% and 47%, specificities of 96% and 98%, and DORs of 8.04 and 66.06, respectively. CONCLUSION TcMEP monitoring has high specificity but low sensitivity for predicting postoperative neurological deficit in lumbar decompression and fusion surgery. Patients who awoke with new postoperative deficits were 35 times more likely to have experienced TcMEP changes intraoperatively, with persistent changes indicating higher risk of deficit than transient changes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II Diagnostic Systematic Review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv P Reddy
- Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Vamsi K Gorijala
- Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Varun R Kaithi
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Varun Shandal
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Katherine M Anetakis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey R Balzer
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Donald J Crammond
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeremy D Shaw
- Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joon Y Lee
- Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Spine Research, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Parthasarathy D Thirumala
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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La Rocca G, Mazzucchi E, Pignotti F, Nasto LA, Galieri G, Rinaldi P, De Santis V, Pola E, Sabatino G. Navigated, percutaneous, three-step technique for lumbar and sacral screw placement: a novel, minimally invasive, and maximally safe strategy. J Orthop Traumatol 2023; 24:32. [PMID: 37386233 DOI: 10.1186/s10195-023-00696-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minimally invasive spine surgery is a field of active and intense research. Image-guided percutaneous pedicle screw (PPS) placement is a valid alternative to the standard free-hand technique, thanks to technological advancements that provide potential improvement in accuracy and safety. Herein, we describe the clinical results of a surgical technique exploiting integration of neuronavigation and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) for minimally invasive PPS. MATERIALS AND METHODS An intraoperative-computed tomography (CT)-based neuronavigation system was combined with IONM in a three-step technique for PPS. Clinical and radiological data were collected to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the procedure. The accuracy of PPS placement was classified according to the Gertzbein-Robbins scale. RESULTS A total of 230 screws were placed in 49 patients. Only two screws were misplaced (0.8%); nevertheless, no clinical sign of radiculopathy was experienced by these patients. The majority of the screws (221, 96.1%) were classified as grade A according to Gertzbein-Robbins scale, seven screws were classified as grade B, one screw was classified as grade D, and one last screw was classified as grade E. CONCLUSIONS The proposed three-step, navigated, percutaneous procedure offers a safe and accurate alternative to traditional techniques for lumbar and sacral pedicle screw placement. Level of Evidence Level 3. Trial registration Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe La Rocca
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
| | - Edoardo Mazzucchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Pignotti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
| | - Luigi Aurelio Nasto
- Department of Orthopaedics and Spine Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria "Luigi Vanvitelli", Università Della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Via De Crecchio 4, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Galieri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
| | | | | | - Enrico Pola
- Department of Orthopaedics and Spine Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria "Luigi Vanvitelli", Università Della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Via De Crecchio 4, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Sabatino
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
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Lewandrowski KU, Yeung A, Lorio MP, Yang H, Ramírez León JF, Sánchez JAS, Fiorelli RKA, Lim KT, Moyano J, Dowling Á, Sea Aramayo JM, Park JY, Kim HS, Zeng J, Meng B, Gómez FA, Ramirez C, De Carvalho PST, Rodriguez Garcia M, Garcia A, Martínez EE, Gómez Silva IM, Valerio Pascua JE, Duchén Rodríguez LM, Meves R, Menezes CM, Carelli LE, Cristante AF, Amaral R, de Sa Carneiro G, Defino H, Yamamoto V, Kateb B. Personalized Interventional Surgery of the Lumbar Spine: A Perspective on Minimally Invasive and Neuroendoscopic Decompression for Spinal Stenosis. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13050710. [PMID: 37240880 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13050710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain generator-based lumbar spinal decompression surgery is the backbone of modern spine care. In contrast to traditional image-based medical necessity criteria for spinal surgery, assessing the severity of neural element encroachment, instability, and deformity, staged management of common painful degenerative lumbar spine conditions is likely to be more durable and cost-effective. Targeting validated pain generators can be accomplished with simplified decompression procedures associated with lower perioperative complications and long-term revision rates. In this perspective article, the authors summarize the current concepts of successful management of spinal stenosis patients with modern transforaminal endoscopic and translaminar minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques. They represent the consensus statements of 14 international surgeon societies, who have worked in collaborative teams in an open peer-review model based on a systematic review of the existing literature and grading the strength of its clinical evidence. The authors found that personalized clinical care protocols for lumbar spinal stenosis rooted in validated pain generators can successfully treat most patients with sciatica-type back and leg pain including those who fail to meet traditional image-based medical necessity criteria for surgery since nearly half of the surgically treated pain generators are not shown on the preoperative MRI scan. Common pain generators in the lumbar spine include (a) an inflamed disc, (b) an inflamed nerve, (c) a hypervascular scar, (d) a hypertrophied superior articular process (SAP) and ligamentum flavum, (e) a tender capsule, (f) an impacting facet margin, (g) a superior foraminal facet osteophyte and cyst, (h) a superior foraminal ligament impingement, (i) a hidden shoulder osteophyte. The position of the key opinion authors of the perspective article is that further clinical research will continue to validate pain generator-based treatment protocols for lumbar spinal stenosis. The endoscopic technology platform enables spine surgeons to directly visualize pain generators, forming the basis for more simplified targeted surgical pain management therapies. Limitations of this care model are dictated by appropriate patient selection and mastering the learning curve of modern MIS procedures. Decompensated deformity and instability will likely continue to be treated with open corrective surgery. Vertically integrated outpatient spine care programs are the most suitable setting for executing such pain generator-focused programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Uwe Lewandrowski
- Center for Advanced Spine Care of Southern Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85712, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- Department of Orthopedics at Hospital Universitário Gaffree Guinle Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, R. Mariz e Barros, 775-Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro 20270-004, Brazil
- Brain Technology and Innovation Park, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
| | - Anthony Yeung
- Desert Institute for Spine Care, 1635 E Myrtle Ave Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85020, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, 915 Camino de Salud NE Albuquerque, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
| | - Morgan P Lorio
- Advanced Orthopedics, 499 East Central Parkway, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701, USA
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou 215031, China
| | - Jorge Felipe Ramírez León
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- Minimally Invasive Spine Center Bogotá D.C. Colombia, Reina Sofía Clinic Bogotá D.C. Colombia, Bogotá 110141, Colombia
| | | | - Rossano Kepler Alvim Fiorelli
- Department of General and Specialized Surgery, Gaffrée e Guinle University Hospital, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro 20000-000, Brazil
| | - Kang Taek Lim
- Good Doctor Teun Teun Spine Hospital, Seoul 775 , Republic of Korea
| | - Jaime Moyano
- Torres Médicas Hospital Metropolitano, San Gabriel y Nicolás Arteta Torre Médica 3, Piso 5, Quito 170521, Ecuador
| | - Álvaro Dowling
- DWS Spine Clinic Center, CENTRO EL ALBA-Cam. El Alba 9500, Of. A402, Región Metropolitana, Las Condes 9550000, Chile
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP) da Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto 14040-900, Brazil
| | | | - Jeong-Yoon Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, Spine and Spinal Cord Institute, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 731, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeun-Sung Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanoori Hospital Gangnam Hospital, Seoul 731, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiancheng Zeng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bin Meng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215005, China
| | | | - Carolina Ramirez
- Centro de Cirugía Mínima Invasiva-CECIMIN, Avenida Carrera 45 # 104-76, Bogotá 0819, Colombia
| | - Paulo Sérgio Teixeira De Carvalho
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pain and Spine Minimally Invasive Surgery Service at Gaffree Guinle University Hospital, Rio de Janeiro 20270-004, Brazil
| | - Manuel Rodriguez Garcia
- Spine Clinic, The American-Bitish Cowdray Medical Center I.A.P, Campus Santa Fe, Mexico City 05370, Mexico
| | - Alfonso Garcia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Espalda Saludable, Hospital Angeles Tijuana, Tijuana 22010, Mexico
| | - Eulalio Elizalde Martínez
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hospital de Ortopedia, UMAE "Dr. Victorio de la Fuente Narvaez", Ciudad de México 07760, Mexico
| | - Iliana Margarita Gómez Silva
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hospital Ángeles Universidad, Av Universidad 1080, Col Xoco, Del Benito Juárez, Ciudad de México 03339, Mexico
| | | | - Luis Miguel Duchén Rodríguez
- Center for Neurological Diseases, Bolivian Spine Association, Spine Chapter of Latin American Federation of Neurosurgery Societies, Public University of El Alto, La Paz 0201-0220, Bolivia
| | - Robert Meves
- Santa Casa Spine Center, São Paulo 09015-000, Brazil
| | - Cristiano M Menezes
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rodrigo Amaral
- Instituto de Patologia da Coluna (IPC), Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP) da Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 14040-900, Brazil
| | | | - Helton Defino
- Hospital das Clínicas of Ribeirao Preto Medical School, Sao Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Vicky Yamamoto
- Brain Technology and Innovation Park, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
- The USC Caruso Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, USC Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- USC-Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- World Brain Mapping Foundation (WBMF), Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
| | - Babak Kateb
- Brain Technology and Innovation Park, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
- World Brain Mapping Foundation (WBMF), Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
- Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics (SBMT), Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
- National Center for Nano Bio Electronic (NCNBE), Los Angeles, CA 90272, USA
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A Modified Method of Triggered Electromyography Monitoring in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: Comparison to Conventional Techniques and Correlation with Body Mass Index. World Neurosurg 2023; 169:e141-e146. [PMID: 36307036 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.10.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Conventional triggered electromyography (EMG) in percutaneous pedicle screw (PPS) systems may be unreliable due to the interaction between the insertion apparatus and patient's soft tissue. Our aim was 1) to describe a modified technique of triggered EMG monitoring using insulated Kirschner wire (K-wires), 2) to compare EMG potentials with conventional techniques, and 3) to demonstrate the relationship between patient body mass index (BMI) and triggered EMG potentials. METHODS This was a prospective cross-sectional study of 50 patients undergoing minimally invasive PPS placement. Triggered EMG measurements using K-wires before and after insulation were compared. The difference between EMG measurements before and after insulation was correlated with patient BMI. RESULTS A total of 50 patients, 22 females and 28 males, underwent triggered EMG testing using K-wires prior to final PPS placement in the thoracic and lumbosacral spine for a total of 472 triggered EMG measurements. When compared to standard triggered EMG monitoring, insulated triggered EMG monitoring demonstrated an average 55.4% decrease in EMG values (P < 0.001). Increasing BMI correlated to increasing % decrease in EMG values (r-coefficient, 0.376; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS We describe a cost-effective, efficient, and reliable technique for triggered EMG during PPS placement which may help ensure accurate screw placement and minimize potentially devastating complications.
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Peterson SL, Mounsef JB, Sebastian AS, Morrissey PB. Intraoperative Triggered Electromyography: Indispensable in Routine Lumbar Fusions? Clin Spine Surg 2022; 35:329-332. [PMID: 33872222 DOI: 10.1097/bsd.0000000000001158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shian Liu Peterson
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Jad Bou Mounsef
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Patrick B Morrissey
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA
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Threshold-based Monitoring of Compound Muscle Action Potentials for Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Placement in the Lumbosacral Spine: Can We Rely on Stimulation of the Uninsulated Screw to Provide a Valid Safety Warning? Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2022; 47:1003-1010. [PMID: 34669673 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000004263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A prospective analysis. OBJECTIVE To test if threshold-based monitoring of compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) by stimulating the screw loaded to uninsulated extender sleeve provides a valid safety warning for percutaneous pedicle screw (PPS) placements in the lumbosacral spine. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Utility of the CMAP monitoring to PPS procedures remains controversial. METHODS A series of 202 patients underwent a total of 1664 lumbosacral PPS placements under CMAP monitoring without fluoroscopic guidance. The monitoring consisted of stimulating the PPS assembled to uninsulated extender sleeve and recording CMAPs from the vastus medialis, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior, and medial gastrocnemius. Automated steps of a threshold hunting algorithm using 0.2-ms duration pulses of increasing intensities delivered at 2/s allowed quick determination of a minimum stimulation current to evoke >100-μV amplitude CMAPs. RESULTS At L2 through S1 spines, postoperative CT scans identified 51 medial or inferior pedicle wall breaches of 1536 screws (3.3%) without neurologic complications. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis determined the critical cutoff threshold value of 27 mA (74% sensitivity and 95% specificity) for predicting 35 breaches of 627 screws (5.6%) at L2 and L3, and of 17 mA (100% sensitivity and 98% specificity) for 16 of 909 (1.8%) at L4 through S1. While advancing the screw, three breaches (5.9%) showed a particularly low threshold of ≤6-mA, allowing the surgeon to immediately redirect the screw and retest the new trajectory as safe. CONCLUSION Screw stimulation with threshold hunting algorithm has a distinct advantage over the time-consuming insulated pilot hole stimulation, allowing an uninterrupted flow of the surgery. The present findings have documented practical usefulness and reliability of CMAP monitoring using direct stimulation of the PPS assembled to uninsulated extender sleeve.
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Reddy RP, Chang R, Coutinho DV, Meinert JW, Anetakis KM, Crammond DJ, Balzer JR, Shaw JD, Lee JY, Thirumala PD. Triggered Electromyography is a Useful Intraoperative Adjunct to Predict Postoperative Neurological Deficit Following Lumbar Pedicle Screw Instrumentation. Global Spine J 2022; 12:1003-1011. [PMID: 34013769 PMCID: PMC9344508 DOI: 10.1177/21925682211018472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. OBJECTIVES Malposition of pedicle screws during instrumentation in the lumbar spine is associated with complications secondary to spinal cord or nerve root injury. Intraoperative triggered electromyographic monitoring (t-EMG) may be used during instrumentation for early detection of malposition. The association between lumbar pedicle screws stimulated at low EMG thresholds and postoperative neurological deficits, however, remains unknown. The purpose of this study is to assess whether a low threshold t-EMG response to lumbar pedicle screw stimulation can serve as a predictive tool for postoperative neurological deficit. METHODS The present study is a meta-analysis of the literature from PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase identifying prospective/retrospective studies with outcomes of patients who underwent lumbar spinal fusion with t-EMG testing. RESULTS The total study cohort consisted of 2,236 patients and the total postoperative neurological deficit rate was 3.04%. 10.78% of the patients incurred at least 1 pedicle screw that was stimulated below the respective EMG alarm threshold intraoperatively. The incidence of postoperative neurological deficits in patients with a lumbar pedicle screw stimulated below EMG alarm threshold during placement was 13.28%, while only 1.80% in the patients without. The pooled DOR was 10.14. Sensitivity was 49% while specificity was 88%. CONCLUSIONS Electrically activated lumbar pedicle screws resulting in low t-EMG alarm thresholds are highly specific but weakly sensitive for new postoperative neurological deficits. Patients with new postoperative neurological deficits after lumbar spine surgery were 10 times more likely to have had a lumbar pedicle screw stimulated at a low EMG threshold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv P. Reddy
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robert Chang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dominic V. Coutinho
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Justin W. Meinert
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Katherine M. Anetakis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Donald J. Crammond
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Balzer
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeremy D. Shaw
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joon Y. Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Parthasarathy D. Thirumala
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical
Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Parthasarathy D. Thirumala, Department of
Neurologic Surgery, Center for Clinical Neurophysiology, University of
Pittsburgh Medical Center, UPMC Presbyterian-Suite-B-400, 200 Lothrop St,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Skinner S, Guo L. Intraoperative neuromonitoring during surgery for lumbar stenosis. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2022; 186:205-227. [PMID: 35772887 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819826-1.00005-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The indications for neuromonitoring during lumbar stenosis surgery are defined by the risks associated with patient positioning, the approach, decompression of neural elements, deformity correction, and instrument implantation. The routine use of EMG and SEP alone during lumbar stenosis surgery is no longer supported by the literature. Lateral approach neuromonitoring with EMG only is also suspect. Lumbar stenosis patients often present with multiple co-morbidities which put them at risk during routine pre-surgical positioning. Frequently encountered morbid obesity and/or diabetes mellitus may play a role in monitorable and preventable brachial plexopathy after "superman" positioning or femoral neuropathy from groin pressure after prone positioning, for example. Deformity correction in lumbar stenosis surgery often demands advanced implementation of multiple neuromonitoring modalities: EMG, SEP, and MEP. Because the bulbocavernosus reflex detects the function of the conus medullaris and sacral somato afferent/efferent fibers of the cauda equina, it may also be recorded. The recommendation to record pedicle screw thresholds has become more nuanced as surgeon dependence on 3D imaging, navigation, and robotics has increased. Neuromonitoring in lumbar stenosis surgery has been subject mainly to uncontrolled case series; prospective cohort trials are also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley Skinner
- Department of Intraoperative Neurophysiology, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
| | - Lanjun Guo
- Department of Surgical Neuromonitoring, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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10
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Diagnostic Accuracy of SSEP Changes During Lumbar Spine Surgery for Predicting Postoperative Neurological Deficit: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2021; 46:E1343-E1352. [PMID: 33958542 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000004099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN This study is a meta-analysis of prospective and retrospective studies identified in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase with outcomes of patients who received intraoperative somatosensory-evoked potential (SSEP) monitoring during lumbar spine surgery. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to determine the diagnostic accuracy of intraoperative lower extremity SSEP changes for predicting postoperative neurological deficit. As a secondary analysis, we evaluated three subtypes of intraoperative SSEP changes: reversible, irreversible, and total signal loss. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Lumbar decompression and fusion surgery can treat lumbar spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis but carry a risk for nerve root injury. Published neurophysiological monitoring guidelines provide no conclusive evidence for the clinical utility of intraoperative SSEP monitoring during lumbar spine surgery. METHODS A systematic review was conducted to identify studies with outcomes of patients who underwent lumbar spine surgeries with intraoperative SSEP monitoring. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated and presented with forest plots and a summary receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS The study cohort consisted of 5607 patients. All significant intraoperative SSEP changes had a sensitivity of 44% and specificity of 97% with a DOR of 22.13 (95% CI, 11.30-43.34). Reversible and irreversible SSEP changes had sensitivities of 28% and 33% and specificities of 97% and 97%, respectively. The DORs for reversible and irreversible SSEP changes were 13.93 (95% CI, 4.60-40.44) and 57.84 (95% CI, 15.95-209.84), respectively. Total loss of SSEPs had a sensitivity of 9% and specificity of 99% with a DOR of 23.91 (95% CI, 7.18-79.65). CONCLUSION SSEP changes during lumbar spine surgery are highly specific but moderately sensitive for new postoperative neurological deficits. Patients who had postoperative neurological deficit were 22 times more likely to have exhibited intraoperative SSEP changes.Level of Evidence: 2.
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Austerman RJ, Sulhan S, Steele WJ, Sadrameli SS, Holman PJ, Barber SM. The utility of intraoperative neuromonitoring on simple posterior lumbar fusions-analysis of the National Inpatient Sample. JOURNAL OF SPINE SURGERY (HONG KONG) 2021; 7:132-140. [PMID: 34296025 DOI: 10.21037/jss-20-679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have demonstrated the utility of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM) including somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs), motor-evoked potentials (MEPs), and electromyography (EMG), in decreasing the risk of neurologic injury in spinal deformity procedures. However, there is limited evidence supporting the routine use of IOM in elective posterolateral lumbar fusion (PLF). METHODS The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) was analyzed for the years 2012-2015 to identify patients undergoing elective PLF with (n=22,404) or without (n=111,168) IOM use. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the impact of IOM on length of stay, total charges, and development of neurologic complications. These analyses controlled for age, gender, race, income percentile, primary expected payer, number of reported comorbidities, hospital teaching status, and hospital size. RESULTS The overall use of IOM in elective PLFs was found to have increased from 14.6% in the year 2012 to 19.3% in 2015. The total charge in hospitalization cost for all patients who received IOM increased from $129,384.72 in 2012 to $146,427.79 in 2015. Overall, the total charge of hospitalization was 11% greater in the IOM group when compared to those patients that did not have IOM (P<0.001). IOM did not have a statistically significant impact on the likelihood of developing a neurological complication. CONCLUSIONS While there may conceivably be benefits to the use of this technology in complex revision fusions or pathologies, we found no meaningful benefit of its application to single-level index PLF for degenerative spine disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Austerman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Suraj Sulhan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William J Steele
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Saeed S Sadrameli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Paul J Holman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sean M Barber
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, USA
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Hegmann KT, Travis R, Andersson GBJ, Belcourt RM, Carragee EJ, Eskay-Auerbach M, Galper J, Goertz M, Haldeman S, Hooper PD, Lessenger JE, Mayer T, Mueller KL, Murphy DR, Tellin WG, Thiese MS, Weiss MS, Harris JS. Invasive Treatments for Low Back Disorders. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:e215-e241. [PMID: 33769405 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This abbreviated version of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine's Low Back Disorders guideline reviews the evidence and recommendations developed for invasive treatments used to manage low back disorders. METHODS Comprehensive systematic literature reviews were accomplished with article abstraction, critiquing, grading, evidence table compilation, and guideline finalization by a multidisciplinary expert panel and extensive peer-review to develop evidence-based guidance. Consensus recommendations were formulated when evidence was lacking and often relied on analogy to other disorders for which evidence exists. A total of 47 high-quality and 321 moderate-quality trials were identified for invasive management of low back disorders. RESULTS Guidance has been developed for the invasive management of acute, subacute, and chronic low back disorders and rehabilitation. This includes 49 specific recommendations. CONCLUSION Quality evidence should guide invasive treatment for all phases of managing low back disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt T Hegmann
- American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Elk Grove Village, Illinois
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Norton J, Kindrachuk M, Fourney DR. Considering Pedicle Screw Resistance in Electromyography of the Spine. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown) 2021; 20:69-73. [DOI: 10.1093/ons/opaa271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Feasibility of Using Intraoperative Neuromonitoring in the Prophylaxis of Dysesthesia in Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomies of the Lumbar Spine. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10080522. [PMID: 32764525 PMCID: PMC7465602 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10080522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Postoperative nerve root injury with dysesthesia is the most frequent sequela following lumbar endoscopic transforaminal discectomy. At times, it may be accompanied by transient and rarely by permanent motor weakness. The authors hypothesized that direct compression of the exiting nerve root and its dorsal root ganglion (DRG) by manipulating the working cannula or endoscopic instruments may play a role. (2) Objective: To assess whether intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring can help prevent nerve root injury by identifying neurophysiological events during the initial placement of the endoscopic working cannula and the directly visualized video endoscopic procedure. (3) Methods: The authors performed a retrospective chart review of 65 (35 female and 30 male) patients who underwent transforaminal endoscopic decompression for failed non-operative treatment of lumbar disc herniation from 2012 to 2020. The patients’ age ranged from 22 to 86 years, with an average of 51.75 years. Patients in the experimental group (32 patients) had intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring recordings using sensory evoked (SSEP), and transcranial motor evoked potentials (TCEP), those in the control group (32 patients) did not. The SSEP and TCMEP data were analyzed and correlated to the postoperative course, including dysesthesia and clinical outcomes using modified Macnab criteria, Oswestry disability index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS) for leg and back pain. (4) Results: The surgical levels were L4/L5 in 44.6%, L5/S1 in 23.1%, and L3/L4 in 9.2%. Of the 65 patients, 56.9% (37/65) had surgery on the left, 36.9% (24/65) on the right, and the remaining 6.2% (4/65) underwent bilateral decompression. Postoperative dysesthesia occurred in 2 patients in the experimental and six patients in the control group. In the experimental neuromonitoring group, there was electrodiagnostic evidence of compression of the exiting nerve root’s DRG in 24 (72.7%) of the 32 patients after initial transforaminal placement of the working cannula. A 5% or more decrease and a 50% or more decrease in amplitude of SSEPs and TCEPs recordings of the exiting nerve root were resolved by repositioning the working cannula or by pausing the root manipulation until recovery to baseline, which typically occurred within an average of 1.15 min. In 15 of the 24 patients with such latency and amplitude changes, a foraminoplasty was performed before advancing the endoscopic working cannula via the transforaminal approach into the neuroforamen to avoid an impeding nerve root injury and postoperative dysesthesia. (5) Conclusion: Neuromonitoring enabled the intraoperative diagnosis of DRG compression during the initial transforaminal placement of the endoscopic working cannula. Future studies with more statistical power will have to investigate whether employing neuromonitoring to avoid intraoperative compression of the exiting nerve root is predictive of lower postoperative dysesthesia rates in patients undergoing videoendoscopic transforaminal discectomy.
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Zileli M, Crostelli M, Grimaldi M, Mazza O, Anania C, Fornari M, Costa F. Natural Course and Diagnosis of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: WFNS Spine Committee Recommendations. World Neurosurg X 2020; 7:100073. [PMID: 32613187 PMCID: PMC7322797 DOI: 10.1016/j.wnsx.2020.100073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is defined as a degenerative disorder showing a narrowing of the spinal canal. The diagnosis is straightforward in cases with typical neurogenic claudication symptoms and unequivocal imaging findings. However, not all patients present with typical symptoms, and there is obviously no correlation between the severity of stenosis and clinical complaint. The radiologic diagnosis of LSS is widely discussed in the literature. The best diagnostic test for the diagnosis of LSS is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, canal diameter measurements have not gained much consensus from radiologists, whereas qualitative measures, such as cerebrospinal fluid space obliteration, have achieved greater consensus. Instability can best be defined by standing lateral radiograms and flexion-extension radiograms. For cases showing typical neurogenic claudication symptoms and unequivocal imaging findings, the diagnosis is straightforward. However, not all patients present with typical symptoms, and there is obviously no correlation between the severity of stenosis (computed tomography and MRI) and clinical complaint. In fact, recent MRI studies have shown that mild-to-moderate stenosis can also be found in asymptomatic individuals. Routine electrophysiological tests such as lower extremity electromyography, nerve conduction studies, F-wave, and H-reflex are not helpful in the diagnosis and outcome prediction of LSS. The electrophysiological recordings are complementary to the neurologic examination and can provide confirmatory information in less obvious clinical complaints. However, in the absence of reliable evidence, imaging studies should be considered as a first-line diagnostic test in the diagnosis of degenerative LSS.
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Key Words
- CT, Computed tomography
- Canal diameter
- Central stenosis
- DSEP, Dermatomal somatosensory evoked potential
- EMG, Electromyography
- Electrophysiological recordings
- Foraminal stenosis
- IONM, Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring
- Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring
- LS, Likert scale
- LSS, Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- MEP, Motor evoked potential
- MRI, Magnetic resonance imaging
- Motor evoked potentials
- NASS, North American Spine Society
- Natural course
- SSEP, Somatosensory evoked potential
- Somatosensory evoked potentials
- VAS, Visual analog scale
- WFNS, World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Zileli
- Neurosurgery Department, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Marco Crostelli
- Spine Surgery Unit, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Osvaldo Mazza
- Spine Surgery Unit, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Anania
- Neurosurgery Department, Humanitas Clinical and Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Fornari
- Neurosurgery Department, Humanitas Clinical and Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Costa
- Neurosurgery Department, Humanitas Clinical and Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Charalampidis A, Jiang F, Wilson JRF, Badhiwala JH, Brodke DS, Fehlings MG. The Use of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Spine Surgery. Global Spine J 2020; 10:104S-114S. [PMID: 31934514 PMCID: PMC6947672 DOI: 10.1177/2192568219859314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Narrative review. OBJECTIVE To summarize relevant studies regarding the utilization of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) techniques in spine surgery implemented in recent years. METHODS A literature search of the Medline database was performed. Relevant studies from all evidence levels have been included. Titles, abstracts, and reference lists of key articles were included. RESULTS Multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (MIONM) has the advantage of compensating for the limitations of each individual technique and seems to be effective and accurate for detecting perioperative neurological injury during spine surgery. CONCLUSION Although there are no prospective studies validating the efficacy of IONM, there is a growing body of evidence supporting its use during spinal surgery. However, the lack of validated protocols to manage intraoperative alerts highlights a critical knowledge gap. Future investigation should focus on developing treatment methodology, validating practice protocols, and synthesizing clinical guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Charalampidis
- Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Department of Reconstructive Orthopaedics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fan Jiang
- Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie R. F. Wilson
- Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jetan H. Badhiwala
- Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Michael G. Fehlings, Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, 399 Bathurst St, Toronto, Ontario M5T2S8, Canada.
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Intraoperative neuromonitoring for one-level lumbar discectomies is low yield and cost-ineffective. J Clin Neurosci 2020; 71:97-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2019.08.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Ajiboye RM, Koltsov JCB, Karamian B, Swinford S, Montgomery BK, Arzeno A, Ziino C, Cheng I. Computer-assisted surgical navigation is associated with an increased risk of neurological complications: a review of 67,264 posterolateral lumbar fusion cases. JOURNAL OF SPINE SURGERY 2019; 5:457-465. [PMID: 32042996 DOI: 10.21037/jss.2019.09.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background Pedicle screw malposition may result in neurological complications following posterolateral lumbar fusions (PLF). While computer-assisted navigation (NAV) and intraoperative neuromonitoring (ION) have been shown to improve safety in deformity surgeries, their use in routine PLFs remain controversial. This study assesses the risk of complications and reoperation for pedicle screw revision following PLF with and without ION and/or NAV surgery. Methods Retrospective analyses were performed using the Truven Health MarketScan® databases to identify patients that had primary PLF with and without NAV and/or ION for degenerative lumbar disorders from years 2007-2015. Patients undergoing concomitant interbody fusions, spinal deformity surgery or fusion to the thoracic spine were excluded. Complications and reoperation for pedicle screw revision within 90 days of surgery were assessed. Results During the study period, 67,264 patients underwent PLFs. NAV only was used in 3.5% of patients, ION only in 17.9% and both NAV and ION in 0.8% of patients. In univariate analyses, there was a difference in the risk of neurological injuries among groups (NAV only: 1.4%, ION only: 0.8%, NAV and ION: 0.5%, No NAV or ION: 0.6%, P<0.001). In multivariable models, the use of NAV was associated with a higher risk of neurological complications when compared to ION only or no ION or NAV [NAV vs. ION only: odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) =2.1 (1.4, 3.2), P=0.002; NAV vs. no ION or NAV: OR and 95% CI =2.5 (1.7, 3.5), P<0.001]. There was no difference in reoperation rates among the groups (P=0.135). Conclusions Although the overall risk of neurological complications following PLFs is low, the use of NAV only was associated with an increased risk of neurological complications. No differences were observed in the rates of pedicle screw revision among groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jayme C B Koltsov
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Brian Karamian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Steven Swinford
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Blake K Montgomery
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Arzeno
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Chason Ziino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Ivan Cheng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA, USA
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Electromyography stimulation compared with intraoperative O-arm imaging for evaluating pedicle screw breaches in lumbar spine surgery: a prospective analysis of 1006 screws in 164 patients. Spine J 2019; 19:206-211. [PMID: 29960110 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2018.06.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Lumbar pedicle screw placement can be technically challenging. Malpositioned screws occur in up to 15% of patients and could result in radiculopathy or instrumentation failure. PURPOSE To compare intraoperative electromyography (EMG) and image guidance using an O-arm for identifying pedicle breach during elective lumbar fusion. STUDY DESIGN Prospective observational study. PATIENT SAMPLE All adult patients undergoing elective lumbar spinal fusion operations for degenerative spine disorders (including adjacent segment degeneration, degenerative scoliosis, and symptomatic spondylosis and spondylolisthesis) at a single institution from July 1, 2014, to December 1, 2015, were prospectively tracked. OUTCOME MEASURES Pedicle breach. METHODS Pedicle screws from L2-S1 were placed using C-arm assisted freehand technique. All screws were stimulated with EMG and evaluated using the O-arm intraoperative imaging system. Electromyography data were compared with intraoperative images to assess the accuracy of identifying pedicle breaches. No funding was received for this work. RESULTS One thousand six lumbar pedicles screws were placed from L2 to S1 in 164 consecutive cases. The mean patient age was 59.2 years. Thirty-five breaches (15 lateral and 20 medial) were visualized with O-arm imaging and confirmed by palpation (3.5% of screws placed). Of the breaches, 14 screws stimulated below the 12-mA threshold, nine screws stimulated between 12 and 20 mA, and 12 screws did not generate an EMG response. Forty screws stimulated below a 12-mA threshold but showed no breach on imaging. Using the 12-mA threshold, the sensitivity of EMG was 40%, specificity was 96%, positive predictive value was 26%, and negative predictive value was 98%. All 35 breached screws were corrected during surgery. There were no postoperative symptoms caused by breached screws and no patients required reoperation. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that EMG may not be a highly reliable tool in determining an anatomical breach during placement of lumbar pedicle screws. O-arm may be better for detecting either medial or lateral breaches than EMG stimulation if there are concerns about screw placement or for confirmation of placement before leaving the operating room.
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Radcliff K, Smith H, Kalantar B, Isaacs R, Woods B, Vaccaro AR, Brannon J. Feasibility of Endoscopic Inspection of Pedicle Wall Integrity in a Live Surgery Model. Int J Spine Surg 2018; 12:241-249. [PMID: 30276081 DOI: 10.14444/5030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Perforations of the pedicle wall during cannulation can occur with experienced surgeons. Direct endoscopic visualization has not been used to inspect pedicles previously due to bone bleeding obscuring the camera visualization. The hypothesis of this study was that endoscopic visualization of pedicle wall integrity was technically feasible and would enable identification of clinically significant pedicle breaches. Methods A live porcine model was used. Eight lumbar pedicles were cannulated. Clinically significant breaches were created. An endoscope was introduced and was used to inspect the pedicles. Results All lumbar pedicles were endoscopically visible at a systolic pressure of 100 mm Hg. Clinically relevant anatomic structures and iatrogenic pathology, such as medial, lateral, and anterior breaches, were identified. There were no untoward events resulting from endoscopic inspection of the pedicle endosteal canal. Conclusions Endoscopic inspection of lumbar pedicles was safe and effective. The findings on endoscopic inspection corresponded with the ball-tip probe palpation techniques. Additional techniques, such as selection between 2 tracts, was possible with the endoscopic technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Radcliff
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Rothman Institute, Egg Harbor, New Jersey
| | - Harvey Smith
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Bobby Kalantar
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
| | - Robert Isaacs
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Barrett Woods
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Rothman Institute, Egg Harbor, New Jersey
| | - Alexander R Vaccaro
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Rothman Institute, Egg Harbor, New Jersey
| | - James Brannon
- Orthopedic Sciences, Inc, Seal Beach, California, Joint Preservation Institute of Kansas, Overland Park, Kansas
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN This is a retrospective analysis of electromyographic (EMG) stimulation thresholds of 64 cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screws. OBJECTIVE The authors seek to determine whether recordings below stimulation threshold correlate with CBT screw pedicle breach on computed tomographic imaging, and to explore which specific nerve roots are most at risk with this new trajectory. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Intraoperative EMG monitoring has been utilized to verify accurate placement of pedicle screws. Although CBT screws are becoming increasingly popular, to the authors' knowledge there are no existing evaluations of the accuracy of intraoperative triggered EMG (tEMG) monitoring in this trajectory. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective analysis of EMG stimulation thresholds of 64 CBT screws placed in patients at NYU Langone Medical Center from 2015-2017. EMG results including threshold values and muscle group stimulated were correlated with screw positioning determined on postoperative or intraoperative computed tomographic imaging. RESULTS In total, 4.7% of EMG threshold values indicated true breach, 1.6% were falsely positive for breach, 76.5% showed true absence of breach, 17.1% failed to reveal a present breach though 0% of medial breaches were undetected. L4 screws showed tEMG responses from adductor longus in 22%, L5 screws, from rectus femoris in 16.7%, and S1 screws from tibialis anterior in 50%. CONCLUSIONS tEMG testing is effective for medial breaches in CBT screws. In addition, there is evidence that bicortical placement of these screws causes lower stimulation values due to distal breach. Importantly, it seems that this is due in part to stimulation of the exiting nerve root at the level above.
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Smith BW, Chulski NJ, Little AA, Chang KWC, Yang LJS. Effect of fascicle composition on ulnar to musculocutaneous nerve transfer (Oberlin transfer) in neonatal brachial plexus palsy. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2018; 22:181-188. [PMID: 29856295 DOI: 10.3171/2018.3.peds17529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP) continues to be a problematic occurrence impacting approximately 1.5 per 1000 live births in the United States, with 10%-40% of these infants experiencing permanent disability. These children lose elbow flexion, and one surgical option for recovering it is the Oberlin transfer. Published data support the use of the ulnar nerve fascicle that innervates the flexor carpi ulnaris as the donor nerve in adults, but no analogous published data exist for infants. This study investigated the association of ulnar nerve fascicle choice with functional elbow flexion outcome in NBPP. METHODS The authors conducted a retrospective study of 13 cases in which infants underwent ulnar to musculocutaneous nerve transfer for NBPP at a single institution. They collected data on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, active range of motion (AROM), and intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) (using 4 ulnar nerve index muscles). Standard statistical analysis compared pre- and postoperative motor function improvement between specific fascicle transfer (1-2 muscles for either wrist flexion or hand intrinsics) and nonspecific fascicle transfer (> 2 muscles for wrist flexion and hand intrinsics) groups. RESULTS The patients' average age at initial clinic visit was 2.9 months, and their average age at surgical intervention was 7.4 months. All NBPPs were unilateral; the majority of patients were female (61%), were Caucasian (69%), had right-sided NBPP (61%), and had Narakas grade I or II injuries (54%). IONM recordings for the fascicular dissection revealed a donor fascicle with nonspecific innervation in 6 (46%) infants and specific innervation in the remaining 7 (54%) patients. At 6-month follow-up, the AROM improvement in elbow flexion in adduction was 38° in the specific fascicle transfer group versus 36° in the nonspecific fascicle transfer group, with no statistically significant difference (p = 0.93). CONCLUSIONS Both specific and nonspecific fascicle transfers led to functional recovery, but that the composition of the donor fascicle had no impact on early outcomes. In young infants, ulnar nerve fascicular dissection places the ulnar nerve at risk for iatrogenic damage. The data from this study suggest that the use of any motor fascicle, specific or nonspecific, produces similar results and that the Oberlin transfer can be performed with less intrafascicular dissection, less time of surgical exposure, and less potential for donor site morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ann A Little
- 2Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Laratta JL, Shillingford JN, Ha A, Lombardi JM, Reddy HP, Saifi C, Ludwig SC, Lehman RA, Lenke LG. Utilization of intraoperative neuromonitoring throughout the United States over a recent decade: an analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample. JOURNAL OF SPINE SURGERY (HONG KONG) 2018; 4:211-219. [PMID: 30069509 PMCID: PMC6046319 DOI: 10.21037/jss.2018.04.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To identify temporal changes to the demographics and utilization of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) throughout the United States (U.S.). METHODS The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried for IONM of central and peripheral nervous electrical activity (ICD-9-CM 00.94) between 2008 and 2014. The NIS database represents a 20% sample of discharges from U.S. Hospitals, weighted to provide national estimates. Demographic and economic data were obtained which included the annual number of surgeries, age, sex, insurance type, location, and frequency of routine discharge. RESULTS The estimated use of IONM of central and peripheral nervous electrical activity increased 296%, from 31,762 cases in 2008 to 125,835 cases in 2014. Based on payer type, privately insured patients (45.0%), rather than Medicare (36.8%) or Medicaid patients (9.2%), were more likely to undergo IONM during spinal procedures. When stratifying by median income for patient zip code, there was a substantial difference in the rates of IONM between low (19.9%) and high-income groups (78.1%). IONM was significantly more likely to be utilized at urban teaching hospitals (72.9%) rather than nonteaching hospitals (25.0%) or rural centers (2.2%). CONCLUSIONS Over the last decade, there has been a massive increase of 296% in utilization of IONM during spine surgery. This is likely due to its proven benefit in reducing neurologic morbidity in spinal deformity surgery, while introducing minimal additional risk. While IONM may improve patient care, it is still rather isolated to teaching hospitals and patients from higher income zip codes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph L. Laratta
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Norton Leatherman Spine Center, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Jamal N. Shillingford
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, The Spine Hospital at New York-Presbyterian, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alex Ha
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, The Spine Hospital at New York-Presbyterian, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph M. Lombardi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Norton Leatherman Spine Center, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Hemant P. Reddy
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, The Spine Hospital at New York-Presbyterian, New York, NY, USA
| | - Comron Saifi
- Penn Orthopaedics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Steven C. Ludwig
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ronald A. Lehman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, The Spine Hospital at New York-Presbyterian, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence G. Lenke
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, The Spine Hospital at New York-Presbyterian, New York, NY, USA
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Piasecki K, Kulik G, Pierzchala K, Pralong E, Rao PJ, Schizas C. Do intra-operative neurophysiological changes predict functional outcome following decompressive surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis? A prospective study. JOURNAL OF SPINE SURGERY 2018; 4:86-92. [PMID: 29732427 DOI: 10.21037/jss.2018.03.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background To analyse the relation between immediate intraoperative neurophysiological changes during decompression and clinical outcome in a series of patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) undergoing surgery. Methods Twenty-four patients with neurogenic intermittent claudication (NIC) due to LSS undergoing decompressive surgery were prospectively studied. Intra operative trans-cranial motor evoked potentials (tcMEPs) were recorded before and immediately after surgical decompression. Lower limb normalised tcMEP improvement was used as primary neurophysiological outcome. Clinical outcome was assessed using the Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ) self-assessment score, before surgery (baseline) and at an average of 8 and 29 months post-operatively. Results We found a moderate positive correlation between tcMEP changes and ZCQ at early follow-up (R=0.36). At late follow-up no correlation was found between intra-operative tcMEP and ZCQ changes. Dichotomizing the data showed a statistically significant relationship between tcMEP improvement and better functional outcome at early follow-up (P=0.013) but not at later follow-up (P=1). Conclusions Our findings suggest that intra-operative neurophysiological improvement during decompressive surgery may predict a better clinical outcome at early follow-up although this is not applicable to late follow-up possibly due to the observed erosion of functional improvement with time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Piasecki
- Orthopaedic Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gerit Kulik
- Orthopaedic Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Katarzyna Pierzchala
- Orthopaedic Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Centre d'Imagerie BioMédicale (CIBM), EPFL SB CIBM-AIT/LIFMET, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Etienne Pralong
- Neurosurgery Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Prashanth J Rao
- Neurospine Research Group, Sydney, Australia.,Westmead Adult and Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,Australia University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Constantin Schizas
- Orthopaedic Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Neuro-orthopaedic Spine Unit, Clinic Cecil, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Utility of Intraoperative Neuromonitoring for Lumbar Pedicle Screw Placement Is Questionable: A Review of 9957 Cases. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2017; 42:1006-1010. [PMID: 27851660 PMCID: PMC5552371 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000001980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A retrospective database study. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to (1) evaluate the trends in the use of electromyography (EMG) for instrumented posterolateral lumbar fusions (PLFs) in the United States and (2) assess the risk of neurological injury following PLFs with and without EMG. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Neurologic injuries from iatrogenic pedicle wall breaches during screw placement are known complications of PLFs. The routine use of intraoperative neuromonitoring (ION) such as EMG during PLF to improve the accuracy and safety of pedicle screw implantation remains controversial. METHODS A retrospective review was performed using the PearlDiver Database to identify patients who had PLF surgery with and without EMG for lumbar disorders from years 2007 to 2015. Patients undergoing concomitant interbody fusions or spinal deformity surgery were excluded. Demographic trends and risk of neurological injuries were assessed. RESULTS During the study period, 2007 to 2015, 9957 patients underwent PLFs. Overall, EMG was used in 2495 (25.1%) of these patients. There was a steady increase in the use of EMG from 14.9% in 2007 to 28.7% in 2009, followed by a steady decrease to 21.9% in 2015 (P < 0.0001). The risk of postoperative neurological injuries following PLFs was 1.35% (134/9957) with a risk of 1.36% (34/2495) with EMG and 1.34% (100/7462) without EMG (P = 0.932). EMG is used most commonly for PLFs in the Southern part of the United States. CONCLUSION In this retrospective national database review, we found that there was a steady increase in the routine use of EMG for PLFs followed by a steady decline. Regional differences were observed in the utility of EMG for PLFs. The risk of neurological complications following PLF in the absence of spinal deformity is low and the routine use of EMG for PLF may not decrease the risk. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.
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Kaliya-Perumal AK, Charng JR, Niu CC, Tsai TT, Lai PL, Chen LH, Chen WJ. Intraoperative electromyographic monitoring to optimize safe lumbar pedicle screw placement - a retrospective analysis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2017; 18:229. [PMID: 28558816 PMCID: PMC5450215 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-017-1594-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The foremost concern of a surgeon during pedicle screw fixation is safety. Assistive modalities, especially intraoperative electromyographic monitoring (EMG) can function as an essential tool to recognize screw malposition that compromise neural integrity, so that the screws can be repositioned immediately rather than later. We intend to study the efficacy of intraoperative EMG monitoring to detect potential pedicle breach and evaluate whether reoperation rates were significantly reduced. Methods Retrospectively, patients who underwent posterior stabilization with pedicle screws for various pathologies were analysed and those with screws among L1-S1 levels were shortlisted. They were divided into two groups. Group 1 included patients in whom trigger EMG (t-EMG) was used to confirm appropriate screw placement and Group 2 included those in whom it was not used. Responses to t-EMG and corresponding stimulation thresholds were recorded for Group 1 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of the test was calculated. Reoperation rates due to postoperative neurologic compromise caused by malpositioned screws were compared between both the groups. Results A total of 518 patients had 3112 pedicle screws between L1-S1 levels. Among Group 1 [n = 296; Screws = 1856], 145 screws (7.8%) showed a positive response for t-EMG at stimulation thresholds ranging between 2.6 to 19.8 mA. The sensitivity and specificity of t-EMG to diagnose potential pedicle breach was found to be 93.33% and 92.88% respectively. Only one patient among Group 1 required reoperation. However, among Group 2 [n = 222; screws = 1256], six patients required reoperation. This indicated a significant decrease in the number of malpositioned screws that caused neurological compromise [p = 0.02], leading to subsequent decrease in reoperation rates [p = 0.04] among Group 1 patients. Conclusions Trigger EMG is well efficient in detecting potential pedicle screw breaches that might endanger neural integrity. In combination with palpatory and radiographic assessment, it will certainly aid safe and secure pedicle screw placement. It can also efficiently reduce reoperation rates due to neurologic compromise provoked by a malpositioned screw.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun-Kumar Kaliya-Perumal
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Division, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, No. 5, Fusing St., Gueishan, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Melmaruvathur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jiun-Ran Charng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Division, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, No. 5, Fusing St., Gueishan, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chien Niu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Division, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, No. 5, Fusing St., Gueishan, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ting Tsai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Division, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, No. 5, Fusing St., Gueishan, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan.
| | - Po-Liang Lai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Division, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, No. 5, Fusing St., Gueishan, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Lih-Huei Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Division, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, No. 5, Fusing St., Gueishan, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Jer Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Division, Bone and Joint Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, No. 5, Fusing St., Gueishan, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
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Ducis K, Florman JE, Rughani AI. Appraisal of the Quality of Neurosurgery Clinical Practice Guidelines. World Neurosurg 2016; 90:322-339. [PMID: 26947727 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.02.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The rate of neurosurgery guidelines publications was compared over time with all other specialties. Neurosurgical guidelines and quality of supporting evidence were then analyzed and compared by subspecialty. METHODS The authors first performed a PubMed search for "Neurosurgery" and "Guidelines." This was then compared against searches performed for each specialty of the American Board of Medical Specialties. The second analysis was an inventory of all neurosurgery guidelines published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Guidelines clearinghouse. All Class I evidence and Level 1 recommendations were compared for different subspecialty topics. RESULTS When examined from 1970-2010, the rate of increase in publication of neurosurgery guidelines was about one third of all specialties combined (P < 0.0001). However, when only looking at the past 5 years the publication rate of neurosurgery guidelines has converged upon that for all specialties. The second analysis identified 49 published guidelines for assessment. There were 2733 studies cited as supporting evidence, with only 243 of these papers considered the highest class of evidence (8.9%). These papers were used to generate 697 recommendations, of which 170 (24.4%) were considered "Level 1" recommendations. CONCLUSION Although initially lagging, the publication of neurosurgical guidelines has recently increased at a rate comparable with that of other specialties. However, the quality of the evidence cited consists of a relatively low number of high-quality studies from which guidelines are created. Wider implications of this must be considered when defining and measuring quality of clinical performance in neurosurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Ducis
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA.
| | - Jeffrey E Florman
- Neuroscience Institute, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Tufts University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anand I Rughani
- Neuroscience Institute, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Tufts University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Center for Excellence in Neuroscience, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine, USA
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Epstein NE. More nerve root injuries occur with minimally invasive lumbar surgery, especially extreme lateral interbody fusion: A review. Surg Neurol Int 2016; 7:S83-95. [PMID: 26904372 PMCID: PMC4743267 DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.174895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the lumbar spine, do more nerve root injuries occur utilizing minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques versus open lumbar procedures? To answer this question, we compared the frequency of nerve root injuries for multiple open versus MIS operations including diskectomy, laminectomy with/without fusion addressing degenerative disc disease, stenosis, and/or degenerative spondylolisthesis. METHODS Several of Desai et al. large Spine Patient Outcomes Research Trial studies showed the frequency for nerve root injury following an open diskectomy ranged from 0.13% to 0.25%, for open laminectomy/stenosis with/without fusion it was 0%, and for open laminectomy/stenosis/degenerative spondylolisthesis with/without fusion it was 2%. RESULTS Alternatively, one study compared the incidence of root injuries utilizing MIS transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) versus posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) techniques; 7.8% of PLIF versus 2% of TLIF patients sustained root injuries. Furthermore, even higher frequencies of radiculitis and nerve root injuries occurred during anterior lumbar interbody fusions (ALIFs) versus extreme lateral interbody fusions (XLIFs). These high frequencies were far from acceptable; 15.8% following ALIF experienced postoperative radiculitis, while 23.8% undergoing XLIF sustained root/plexus deficits. CONCLUSIONS This review indicates that MIS (TLIF/PLIF/ALIF/XLIF) lumbar surgery resulted in a higher incidence of root injuries, radiculitis, or plexopathy versus open lumbar surgical techniques. Furthermore, even a cursory look at the XLIF data demonstrated the greater danger posed to neural tissue by this newest addition to the MIS lumbar surgical armamentariu. The latter should prompt us as spine surgeons to question why the XLIF procedure is still being offered to our patients?
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Epstein
- Department of Neurousrgery, Winthrop Neuroscience, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
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An Isolated Posterior Spinal Aneurysm Resection in Which Intraoperative Electrophysiological Monitoring Was Successfully Used to Locate the Lesion and to Detect the Possibility of Ischemic Complications. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2016; 41:E46-9. [PMID: 26230543 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000001081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A case report. OBJECTIVE To report the successful use of electrophysiological monitoring in the surgical resection of a ruptured spinal artery (SA) aneurysm to locate the lesion, and to predict ischemic complications. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Isolated aneurysm of the posterior SA is an extremely rare event without established treatment and diagnosis procedures. Reports describing the surgical intervention of aneurysm of the posterior SA using electrophysiological monitoring are scant. METHODS We performed the surgical resection of a dissected posterior SA aneurysm in an older patient who presented with spinal subarachnoid hemorrhage using intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring. RESULTS Intraoperatively, motor evoked potentials decreased over 50% when a distal site of the lesion was clipped, indicating that site was the posterior SA. This lead to further investigation of the vascular anatomy around the lesion, which revealed the descending part of the posterior SA buried deeply in a thick thrombus. Clipping and resection were successful, and ischemia of the posterior SA was avoided. The postoperative clinical course was good, and there was no recurrence or long-term squeal. CONCLUSION Electrophysiological monitoring might be useful when intraoperative anatomical findings of the hemodynamic structure are inadequate. Moreover, in our case, intraoperative changes in motor evoked potentials indicated the risk to occlude one of posterior SAs, although it is said that posterior circulation of spinal cord has ischemic tolerance.
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Norton JA, Aronyk KE, Hedden DM. Interpretation of surgical neuromonitoring data in Canada: a survey of practising surgeons. Can J Surg 2015; 58:206-8. [PMID: 25799133 DOI: 10.1503/cjs.013214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Intraoperative neuromonitoring is a specialized skill set performed in the operating room to reduce the risk of neurologic injury. There appears to be a shortage of qualified personnel and a lack of Canadian guidelines on the performance of the task. We distributed a web-based survey on the attitude of the surgeons to the interpretation of intraoperative neuromonitoring data among surgeons who use the technique. At present, most of the interpretation is performed by either technologists or by the surgeons themselves. Most surgeons would prefer professional oversight from a neurologist or neurophysiologist at the doctoral level. There is a lack of personnel in Canada with the appropriate training and expertise to interpret intraoperative neuromonitoring data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Norton
- The Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Keith E Aronyk
- The Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
| | - Douglas M Hedden
- The Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta
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Intraoperative neuromonitoring in single-level spinal procedures: a retrospective propensity score-matched analysis in a national longitudinal database. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2014; 39:1950-9. [PMID: 25202940 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000000593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective propensity score-matched analysis on a national database (MarketScan) between 2006 and 2010. OBJECTIVE To compare rates of neurological deficits after elective single-level spinal procedures with and without intraoperative neuromonitoring, as well as associated payment differences and geographic variance. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring is a technique that may contribute to avoiding permanent neurological injury during some spine surgery procedures. However, it is unclear whether all patients undergoing spine surgery benefit from neuromonitoring. METHODS An identified 85,640 patients underwent single-level spinal procedures including anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), lumbar fusion, lumbar laminectomy, or lumbar discectomy. Neuromonitoring was identified with appropriate Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. Cohorts were balanced on baseline comorbidities and procedure characteristics using propensity score matching. Trauma and spinal tumors cases were excluded. RESULTS Patients (12.66%) received neuromonitoring intraoperatively. Lumbar laminectomies had reduced 30-day neurological complication rate with neuromonitoring (0.0% vs. 1.18%, P=0.002). Neuromonitoring did not correlate with reduced intraoperative neurological complications in ACDFs (0.09% vs. 0.13%), lumbar fusions (0.32% vs. 0.58%), or lumbar discectomy (1.24% vs. 0.91%). With the addition of neuromonitoring, payments for ACDFs increased 16.24% ($3842), lumbar fusions 7.84% ($3540), lumbar laminectomies 24.33% ($3704), and lumbar discectomies 22.54% ($2859). Significant geographic variation was evident. Some states had no recorded single-level spinal cases with concurrent neuromonitoring. Rates for ACDFs and lumbar fusions, laminectomies, and discectomies ranged as high as 61%, 58%, 22%, and 21%, respectively. CONCLUSION With intraoperative neurological monitoring in single-level procedures, neurological complications were decreased only among lumbar laminectomies. No difference was observed in ACDFs, lumbar fusions, or lumbar discectomies. There was a significant increase in total payments associated with the index procedure and hospitalization. We demonstrate significant geographic variation in neuromonitoring. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
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