Lumbar Facet Arthroplasty Versus Fusion for Grade-I Degenerative Spondylolisthesis with Stenosis: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

The comparative effectiveness of decompression plus lumbar facet arthroplasty versus decompression plus instrumented lumbar spinal fusion in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis and grade-I degenerative spondylolisthesis is unknown.

METHODS

In this randomized, controlled, Food and Drug Administration Investigational Device Exemption trial, we assigned patients who had single-level lumbar spinal stenosis and grade-I degenerative spondylolisthesis to undergo decompression plus lumbar facet arthroplasty (arthroplasty group) or decompression plus fusion (fusion group). The primary outcome was a predetermined composite clinical success score. Secondary outcomes included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS) back and leg pain, Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ), Short Form (SF)-12, radiographic parameters, surgical variables, and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 321 adult patients were randomized in a 2:1 fashion, with 219 patients assigned to undergo facet arthroplasty and 102 patients assigned to undergo fusion. Of these, 113 patients (51.6%) in the arthroplasty group and 47 (46.1%) in the fusion group who had either reached 24 months of postoperative follow-up or were deemed early clinical failures were included in the primary outcome analysis. The arthroplasty group had a higher proportion of patients who achieved composite clinical success than did the fusion group (73.5% versus 25.5%; p < 0.001), equating to a between-group difference of 47.9% (95% confidence interval, 33.0% to 62.8%). The arthroplasty group outperformed the fusion group in most patient-reported outcome measures (including the ODI, VAS back pain, and all ZCQ component scores) at 24 months postoperatively. There were no significant differences between groups in surgical variables or complications, except that the fusion group had a higher rate of developing symptomatic adjacent segment degeneration.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with lumbar spinal stenosis and grade-I degenerative spondylolisthesis, lumbar facet arthroplasty was associated with a higher rate of composite clinical success than fusion was at 24 months postoperatively.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Fusion's Location and Quality within the Fixated Segment Following Transforaminal Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

Transforaminal interbody fusion (TLIF) has gained increased popularity over recent decades and is being employed as an established surgical treatment for several lumbar spine pathologies, including degenerative spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, infection, tumor and some cases of recurrent disc herniation. Despite the seemingly acceptable fusion rates after TLIF (up to 94%), the literature is still limited regarding the specific location and quality of fusion inside the fixated segment. In this single-institution, retrospective population-based study, we evaluated all post-operative computed tomography (CT) of patients who underwent TLIF surgery at a medium-sized medical center between 2010 and 2020. All CT studies were performed at a minimum of 1 year following the surgery, with a median of 2 years. Each CT study was evaluated for post-operative fusion, specifically in the posterolateral and intervertebral body areas. The fusion's quality was determined and classified in each area according to Lee's criteria, as follows: (1) definitive fusion: definitive bony trabecular bridging across the graft host interface; (2) probable fusion: no definitive bony trabecular crossing but with no gap at the graft host interface; (3) possible arthrosis: no bony trabecular crossing with identifiable gap at the graft host interface; (4) definite pseudarthrosis: no traversing trabecular bone with definitive gap. A total of 48 patients were included in this study. The median age was 55.6 years (SD ± 15.4). The median time from surgery to post-operative CT was 2 years (range: 1-10). Full definitive fusion in both posterolateral and intervertebral areas was observed in 48% of patients, and 92% showed definitive fusion in at least one area (either posterolateral or intervertebral body area). When comparing the posterolateral and the intervertebral area fusion rates, a significantly higher definitive fusion rate was observed in the posterolateral area as compared to the intervertebral body area in the long term follow-up (92% vs. 52%, p < 0.001). In the multivariable analysis, accounting for several confounding factors, including the number of fixated segments and cage size, the results remained statistically significant (p = 0.048). In conclusion, a significantly higher definitive fusion rate at the posterolateral area compared to the intervertebral body area following TLIF surgery was found. Surgeons are encouraged to employ bone augmentation material in the posterolateral area (as the primary site of fusion) when performing TLIF surgery.

Traumatic Posterior Atlantoaxial Dislocation With an Associated Fracture: A Systematic Review

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical presentation, mechanism of injury, patients' characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of traumatic posterior atlantoaxial dislocation with fracture (TPAD).

BACKGROUND

TPAD is an extremely rare entity, with a limited number of cases reported in the literature. Although rare, a thorough understanding of the pathogenesis and management of such cases is required due to the high risk of spinal cord compression and the severity of neurological deficits. We conducted a systematic review of all cases of TPAD with fractures reported in the literature.

METHODS

This systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. Relevant literature was retrieved from the Pubmed database. All published English-written studies involving human subjects with relevant data regarding TPAD were included.

RESULTS

Two case series and 20 case reports published between 1924 and 2021 describing 28 patients with TPAD were included. The median age at presentation was 51.5 years, with male predominance (83%). The most common fracture pattern was Anderson and D'alonzo type II odontoid fracture (78%). Neurological exam at presentation was intact in 52% of patients. The primary diagnostic imaging was computed tomography employed in 96% of cases. The management consisted of 2 stages protocol, initially, a temporary axial traction was employed (54%), and later definitive surgical treatment was employed (93%). The posterior surgical approach was favored in 82% of cases.

CONCLUSION

TPAD with fracture occurred in the majority of cases with Anderson and D'alonzo type II odontoid fracture, predominantly in males. Diagnosis is usually established based on computed tomography imaging; further imaging may not be indicated as it does not seem to alternate the patient's management course. Surgical intervention was employed in almost all cases, with favored results through posterior C1-C2 fusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level-IV.

A Prospective Study of Lumbar Facet Arthroplasty in the Treatment of Degenerative Spondylolisthesis and Stenosis: Results from the Total Posterior Spine System (TOPS) IDE Study

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective randomized Food and Drug Administration investigational device exemption clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present study is to report the 1-year clinical and radiographic outcomes and safety profile of patients who underwent lumbar facet arthroplasty through implantation of the Total Posterior Spine System (TOPS) device.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Lumbar facet arthroplasty is one proposed method of dynamic stabilization to treat grade-1 spondylolisthesis with stenosis; however, there are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved devices for facet arthroplasty.

METHODS

Standard demographic information was collected for each patient. Radiographic parameters and patient-reported outcome measures were assessed preoperatively and at regular postoperative intervals. Complication and reoperation data were also collected for each patient.

RESULTS

At the time of this study, 153 patients had undergone implantation of the TOPS device. The mean surgical time was 187.8 minutes and the mean estimated blood loss was 205.7cc. The mean length of hospital stay was 3.0 days. Mean Oswestry Disability Index, Visual Analog Score leg and back, and Zurich Claudication Questionnaire scores improved significantly at all postoperative time points ( P >0.001). There were no clinically significant changes in radiographic parameters, and all operative segments remained mobile at 1-year follow-up. Postoperative complications occurred in 11 patients out of the 153 patients (7.2%) who underwent implantation of the TOPS device. Nine patients (5.9%) underwent a total of 13 reoperations, 1 (0.6%) of which was for device-related failure owing to bilateral L5 pedicle screw loosening.

CONCLUSIONS

Lumbar facet arthroplasty with the TOPS device demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in all patient-reported outcome measures and the ability to maintain motion at the index level while limiting sagittal translation with a low complication rate.

Scoliosis in osteogenesis imperfecta: results of posterior spinal fusion in 39 patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of scoliosis corrective surgery in Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) patients with primarily pedicles screw fixation in terms of correcting and maintaining the correction of the spinal deformity, and to assess for several peri-operative parameters and complications associated with this surgical treatment.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of 39 consecutive patients with OI treated surgically for scoliosis. The surgeries were performed between 2002 and 2020 by three different surgeons. All patients' medical peri-operative and post-operative charts were evaluated. Radiological assessment was performed by evaluation of the pre-operative, immediate post-operative and last follow-up plain radiographs.

RESULTS

There were 20 females and 19 males included in this review with a mean age of 14 years (range, 6-20 years) at the time of surgery. The median follow-up time was 7.9 years. The mean pre-operative cobb angle (CA) of the major curve was 76.5 degrees (SD ± 18.9), decreasing to 42.6 (SD ± 17.4) in the long-term post-operative follow-up (P < 0.001). A total of 21 adverse events in 16 patients were noted. Only 4 patients required subsequent invasive surgical treatment or prolonged hospital stay. All other patients were treated conservatively with no lasting complication.

CONCLUSION

Scoliosis surgical correction in OI patients seems to yield acceptable results, with maintained coronal plane surgical correction in the long-term follow-up. Even though a high peri-operative complications rate is observed in this series, there were no long-term sequelae or lasting complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Case series.

Prospective, randomized controlled multicenter study of posterior lumbar facet arthroplasty for the treatment of spondylolisthesis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a posterior facet replacement device, the Total Posterior Spine (TOPS) System, for the treatment of one-level symptomatic lumbar stenosis with grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis. Posterior lumbar arthroplasty with facet replacement is a motion-preserving alternative to lumbar decompression and fusion. The authors report the preliminary results from the TOPS FDA investigational device exemption (IDE) trial.

METHODS

The study was a prospective, randomized controlled FDA IDE trial comparing the investigational TOPS device with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) and pedicle screw fixation. The minimum follow-up duration was 24 months. Validated patient-reported outcome measures included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg pain. The primary outcome was a composite measure of clinical success: 1) no reoperations, 2) no device breakage, 3) ODI reduction of ≥ 15 points, and 4) no new or worsening neurological deficit. Patients were considered a clinical success only if they met all four measures. Radiographic assessments were made by an independent core laboratory.

RESULTS

A total of 249 patients were evaluated (n = 170 in the TOPS group and n = 79 in the TLIF group). There were no statistically significant differences between implanted levels (L4-5: TOPS, 95% and TLIF, 95%) or blood loss. The overall composite measure for clinical success was statistically significantly higher in the TOPS group (85%) compared with the TLIF group (64%) (p = 0.0138). The percentage of patients reporting a minimum 15-point improvement in ODI showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.037) favoring TOPS (93%) over TLIF (81%). There was no statistically significant difference between groups in the percentage of patients reporting a minimum 20-point improvement on VAS back pain (TOPS, 87%; TLIF, 64%) and leg pain (TOPS, 90%; TLIF, 88%) scores. The rate of surgical reintervention for facet replacement in the TOPS group (5.9%) was lower than the TLIF group (8.8%). The TOPS cohort demonstrated maintenance of flexion/extension range of motion from preoperatively (3.85°) to 24 months (3.86°).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that posterior lumbar decompression and dynamic stabilization with the TOPS device is safe and efficacious in the treatment of lumbar stenosis with degenerative spondylolisthesis. Additionally, decompression and dynamic stabilization with the TOPS device maintains segmental motion.

Radiographic Bone Healing in Minimally Invasive Floating Metatarsal Osteotomy for Neuropathic Plantar Metatarsal Head Ulcers - A Retrospective Cohort Study

Minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy is an option for treating neuropathic ulcers under the metatarsal heads. This study presents the radiographic results of the floating metatarsal osteotomy. We reviewed files and radiographs at least 4 months after a floating metatarsal osteotomy in patients with diabetic neuropathy. In 71 osteotomies in 54 patients with late onset diabetes (mean age 61 ± 9, mean HbA1c 7.9 ± 1.9%), the primary ulcer healed within 3.5 ± 1.4 weeks. Of 66 osteotomies where radiographs were available 10 had non-union (15%, all asymptomatic), 15 (23%) had hypertrophic callus formation and 41 (62%) had normal union. One patient developed an ulcer under the hypertrophic callus. This necessitated callus resection. Asymptomatic non-union may happen in 15% of floating osteotomies, but the osteotomies appear to be relatively safe and effective for neuropathic plantar metatarsal head ulcers. Hypertropic callus causing local re-ulceration is rare and can be managed surgically.

Kyphoplasty for Elderly Patients With Vertebral Compression Fractures-Do We Save Lives? Mortality Rates Analysis Comparison in a Long-Term Follow-Up Cohort

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to compare a large cohort of patients with vertebral compression fractures (VCF) treated in 2 centers using different protocols (conservative vs BKP) and compare mortality rates on a long-term follow-up.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort held in 2 medical centers (W and AH). All patients admitted with VCF from November 2008 to January 2015 were enrolled in the study. Exclusion criteria were patients admitted with non-osteoporotic pathological fractures (such as metastatic or MM).

RESULTS

Our study included 208 patients treated for VCF, 127 were treated with BKP (88 females, 69.3%) and 81 were treated conservatively (59 females, 72.8%). Patients from Centre W were older and frailer compared to the patients from AH center (Average age 75.12 ± 11.16 vs 69.13 ± 9.61 years and Frailty score of 0.16 ± 0.1 vs 0.12 ± 0.1 respectively, T-test, p < 0.01 for both). Hazard ratios (HR) for age, female gender and frailty were significant for increased mortality, frailty had the highest HR of 182.42 (CI 29.05-1145.33, p < 0.01). Multivariate Cox model was fitted and after accounting for Gender, Age and Frailty, no significant difference was found between the 2 medical centers mortality rates (p = 0.59), thus no difference in mortality rates between BKP and conservative treatment in our study.

CONCLUSION

long-term follow-up following BKP treatment for VCF did not show a reduced mortality rate compared to conservative treatment after accounting for frailty, age and gender. Frailty was the most important factor in predicting mortality. Further RCTs are needed to compare the quality of life differences between the 2 treatment strategies.

The XVS System During Open Spinal Fixation Procedures in Patients Requiring Pedicle Screw Placement in the Lumbosacral Spine

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study was undertaken to evaluate the safety, performance, and usability of the Xvision-Spine (XVS) System (Augmedics, Arlington Heights, IL) during open spinal fixation procedures in patients requiring pedicle screw placement in the lumbosacral spine.

METHODS

The XVS System is an augmented reality head-mounted display (HMD) based on a computer navigation system designed to assist surgeons in accurately placing pedicle screws. It uses an HMD-mounted tracking camera to provide optical tracking technology, and provides the surgeon a translucent direct near-eye display of the navigated surgical instrument's location relative to the computed tomographic image. We report the preliminary results of a prospective series of all consecutive patients who underwent augmented reality-assisted pedicle screw placement in the lumbosacral vertebrae at 3 institutions. Clinical accuracy for each pedicle screw was graded with Gertzbein-Robbins scores by 2 independent and blinded neuroradiologists.

RESULTS

The 19 study participants included 8 men and 11 women with a mean age of 59.13 ± 12.09 and 59.91 ± 12.89 years, respectively. Seventeen procedures were successfully completed via the XVS System. Two procedures were not completed due to technical issues with the system's intraoperative scanner. A total of 86 screws were inserted. The accuracy of the XVS System was 97.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The XVS System's performance in accurate placement of pedicle screws in the lumbosacral vertebrae had an overall accuracy of 97.7%. These preliminary results were comparable to the accuracy of other manual computer-assisted navigation systems reported in the literature.

Clostridium difficile Colitis in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To identify risk factors associated with developing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients after surgery and to describe the clinical presentation of CDI in these patients. Clostridium difficile colitis is reportedly increasing in hospitalized patients and can have a negative impact on patient outcomes. No data exist on CDI rates and its consequences on patient undergoing surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective database review of patients who underwent elective idiopathic scoliosis surgery between January 2019 to June 2021 was conducted. The population was divided into patients who developed Clostridium difficile colitis and those who did not. RESULTS A total of 128 patients were included in the study. We did not find notable risk factors for the development of CDI. In 2 patients diagnosis of CDI, was made. Length of hospital stays, and readmissions were significantly higher in patients with CDI. CONCLUSIONS CDI is a rare post-surgical complication in patients who undergo surgery for idiopathic scoliosis. Currently, we cannot identify predisposing factors for the development of CDI in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients. A high index of suspicion is necessary for timely diagnosis and treatment in patients presenting with abdominal symptoms around post-operative day 5 after surgical treatment for idiopathic scoliosis. Key words: Clostridium difficile infection, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, abdominal pain, diarrhea.

Association between lumbosacral transitional vertebrae and spinal pathologies based on T2 whole-spine sagittal magnetic resonance imaging

PURPOSE

To assess the association between 4, 5, or 6 lumbar spine vertebrae and the presence of lumbar spinal pathologies.

METHODS

We reviewed all MRI reports and images performed between August 1st, 2018 and July 31st, 2019. Lumbar spine pathologies such as disc herniation, lytic spondylolisthesis, and spinal stenosis were recorded. The reviewer studied the T2 sagittal screening of the entire spine and counted down manually from C2 to T12 on the assumption that there are seven cervical and twelve dorsal vertebrae. We then recorded whether there were four, five, or six lumbar vertebrae.

RESULTS

Our work incorporated a total of 1985 patients for whom T2-weighted entire spine sagittal MR images were obtainable. The study cohort's average age was 52.2 ± 15.9 years, comprising 944 males and 1041 females. One hundred and thirty-three patients (6.7%) had 4 lumbar-type vertebrae; 1799 (90.6%) had 5 lumbar-type vertebrae; and 53 (2.7%) had 6 lumbar-type vertebrae. There was a statistically significant difference between the rates of 6 lumbar-type vertebrae in males versus females (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference with more spinal stenosis patients in the 6 lumbar-type vertebrae compared to the 4 or 5 lumbar-type vertebrae groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that spinal stenosis is significantly more common in patients with 6 lumbar-type vertebrae.

Height Gain Prediction in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Based on Preoperative Parameters

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the study was to identify preoperative parameters which are associated with height gain after corrective surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and their use to preoperatively quantify the potential for height gain after AIS correction.

METHODS

Our study included 87 consecutive patients with AIS who underwent posterior fusion. Patients' height was measured the day before surgery and before their discharge. Demographic and radiologic variables were analyzed for predictability of height gain.

RESULTS

The mean height gain was 3.85 cm. We have found a statistically significant correlation between height gain and the following measures: preoperative thoracic curve, preoperative thoracolumbar curve, preoperative thoracic kyphosis, flexibility of the main thoracic and thoracolumbar curves, and number of fused levels (all P<0.05). Patients with Lenke type 1 and 2 had statistically less height gain compared with patients with Lenke type 3, 4, 6.

CONCLUSION

Most of the scoliosis patients with Lenke type 1 and 2 will gain up to 3 cm after surgery while most of the patients with Lenke type 3, 4, 6 will gain more than 3 cm. Most patients with Lenke type 3, 4, 6 with a major curve of less than 60 degrees will gain up to 4 cm, while most of those with a major curve of more than 60 degrees will gain more than 4 cm. Patient with a positive thoracic sagittal modifier tend to have more height gain after surgery.

Determination of Any Correlation between Sagittal Spinopelvic Configuration and Progressive Collapse of Acute Osteoporotic Compression Spine Fractures: A Retrospective Radiological Analysis

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine any correlations between spinopelvic configuration and progressive collapse following acute osteoporotic compression spine fractures.

Overview of Literature

Few studies have investigated the risk factors for progressive osteoporotic compression spine fractures. However, the correlation between the spinopelvic configuration, which is a crucial to optimize the management of lumbar degenerative diseases, and progressive collapse following acute osteoporotic compression spine fractures was not analyzed.

Methods

We retrospectively identified all patients treated for thoracolumbar fractures in Assaf Harofe Medical Center between January 2008 and July 2013. Pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), and pelvic tilt (PT) were measured for the pelvic parameters. For each patient, we classified the fracture according to the AOSpine Thoracolumbar Spine Injury Classification System. Height loss was measured initially and at a minimum of 3-month follow-up. The difference between initial and final height loss was documented as height loss difference.

Results

The study included 124 patients comprised 86 women and 38 men. The mean patient age was 69±9.6 years. The mean length of follow-up was 14±15 months. No significant effect of the PI, PT, and SS angles on the vertebral fracture level (p>0.05) was found. Similarly, no significant relationship between the PI, PT, and SS angle and the fracture type according to the AO classification (p>0.05) was found. There was no correlation between PI, PT, and SS angles and initial height loss, final height loss and height loss difference (p>0.05)

Conclusions

The spinopelvic configuration represented by the PI, PT, and SS angle does not influence progressive collapse following acute osteoporotic compression spine fractures.

Long-term results for total lumbar facet joint replacement in the management of lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis

OBJECTIVE

The authors evaluated the long-term clinical outcome of a total posterior arthroplasty system in the surgical treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis with degenerative spondylolisthesis.

METHODS

Between June 2006 and July 2007, 10 patients with neurogenic claudication due to spinal stenosis and single-level degenerative spondylolisthesis were enrolled in a nonrandomized prospective clinical study. The patients were evaluated with radiographs and MRI scans, the visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the SF-36 health survey preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 7 years, and 11 years postoperatively.

RESULTS

The mean VAS score for leg pain dropped from 83.5 before surgery to 13 at 6 weeks and 17 at 11 years after surgery. The mean VAS score for back pain dropped from 56.2 preoperatively to 12.5 at 6 weeks and 14 at 11 years after surgery. The mean ODI score decreased from 49.1 preoperatively to 13.5 at 6 weeks and 16 at 11 years after surgery. MRI at 11 years demonstrated stenosis adjacent to the stabilized segment in one patient. This patient was not symptomatic. The authors did not find evidence of progression of the spondylolisthesis in any of the cases. In one patient, conversion to posterolateral fusion was performed due to an early device malfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this 11-year follow-up study demonstrate that, in patients with spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis, decompression and posterior arthroplasty maintain clinical improvement and radiological stability.

Clinical and Radiographical Characteristics in Male and Female Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Surgical Candidates

BACKGROUND

Gender differences in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) have been documented in curve progression, response to bracing, and outcomes of surgical treatment. However, limited information is available about the relation between gender and scoliosis curve patterns and radiographical characteristics.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of gender on curve pattern and compare clinical and radiographical characteristics between male and female patients with AIS.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of prospectively collected data that compared clinical and radiographical characteristics between male and female surgical candidates. Demographic and clinical data including age at presentation, gender, family history of scoliosis, brace treatment history, clinical coronal balance, shoulder asymmetry, and hump size were recorded. All patients graded their pain with the use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) on a scale from 0 to 10. Radiographs of the spine were reviewed to determine the type of curve according to the Lenke classification, Cobb angle, thoracic kyphosis angle, and the Risser sign. Radiologic coronal balance was recorded. Curve flexibility was determined by measuring the thoracic and lumbar curves magnitude on side bending radiographs.

RESULTS

The study included 163 patients with AIS including 35 males and 128 females patients. Although a trend toward more flexible major thoracic curves in females was noticed, there was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study we were not able to demonstrate any clinical nor radiological statistical differences between male and female patients who are candidate for surgical treatment.

The Proprioceptive System Regulates Morphologic Restoration of Fractured Bones

Successful fracture repair requires restoration of bone morphology and mechanical integrity. Recent evidence shows that fractured bones of neonatal mice undergo spontaneous realignment, dubbed "natural reduction." Here, we show that natural reduction is regulated by the proprioceptive system and improves with age. Comparison among mice of different ages revealed, surprisingly, that 3-month-old mice exhibited more rapid and effective natural reduction than newborns. Fractured bones of null mutants for transcription factor Runx3, lacking functional proprioceptors, failed to realign properly. Blocking Runx3 expression in the peripheral nervous system, but not in limb mesenchyme, recapitulated the null phenotype, as did inactivation of muscles flanking the fracture site. Egr3 knockout mice, which lack muscle spindles but not Golgi tendon organs, displayed a less severe phenotype, suggesting that both receptor types, as well as muscle contraction, are required for this regulatory mechanism. These findings uncover a physiological role for proprioception in non-autonomous regulation of skeletal integrity.

The relation between location of cervical cord compression and the location of myelomalacia

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the location of the cervical cord compression and the increased signal intensity within the cervical cord on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) in patients with cervical myelopathy and myelomalacia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed 1,615 MRI reports from January 2011 to May 2013 from a single institution. Of the 1,615 reports reviewed, 168 patients were diagnosed with increased signal intensity within the cervical spine on T2WI. After applying the exclusion criteria 82 patients were included in the study. The MRIs of these 82 patients were then reviewed and the location of the increased signal intensity on T2WI in relation to the location of the pressure on the spinal cord was recorded.

RESULTS

In more than 50 % of the cases the lesions with increased signal intensity on T2WI either were located distal to the pressure on the spinal cord or started at the level of the pressure and extended to an area distal to the pressure. In 26 out of the 92 lesions with increased signal intensity on T2WI, the lesion started proximal to the pressure on the spinal cord and extended distal to it. In only 3 out of the 92 lesions, the lesion with increased signal intensity on T2WI was solely located proximal to the pressure on the spinal cord. In 5 other cases the lesion with increased signal intensity on T2WI started proximal to the level of pressure on the spinal cord and extended into the level of pressure on the spinal cord (p < 0.001; Table 1).

CONCLUSION

Cervical myelomalacia may appear proximal, distal or at the level of the compressed cord. It rarely appears solely proximal to the pressure area on the cord.

Seven years follow-up for total lumbar facet joint replacement (TOPS) in the management of lumbar spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility and clinical improvement of a total posterior arthroplasty system in the surgical management of lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and or spinal stenosis.

METHODS

During a 1-year period (June 2006 to July 2007), ten patients were enrolled in a non-randomized prospective clinical study. The primary indication was neurogenic claudication due to spinal stenosis with single-level degenerative spondylolisthesis. Patients were evaluated with X-rays and MRI scans, visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, the Oswestry disability questionnaire, and the SF-36 health survey preoperatively, at 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months and at 1, 2, 3 and 7 years postoperatively.

RESULTS

The VAS score for back pain dropped from 56.2 preoperatively to 12.5 at 6 weeks and 19 at 7 years follow-up. The VAS score for worse leg pain dropped from 83.5 before surgery to 13 at 6 weeks and 8.8 at 7 years follow-up. The ODI dropped from 49.1 preoperatively to 13.5 at 6 weeks and 7.8 at 7 years follow-up. MRI examination at 7 years after surgery did not demonstrate stenosis adjacent to the stabilized segment. Spondylolisthesis did not progress in any of the cases. One patient had a symptomatic L3-L4 far lateral disc herniation 5 years after surgery whose symptoms resolved with non-operative treatment. In one patient, conversion to posterolateral fusion was performed due to an early device malfunction.

CONCLUSION

In patients with spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis, decompression and posterior arthroplasty with the TOPS System can maintain clinical improvement and radiologic stability over time.

Surgical management of moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with ApiFix®: a short peri- apical fixation followed by post-operative curve reduction with exercises

Surgery in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a major operative intervention where 10-12 vertebrae are instrumented and fused. A smaller motion preserving surgery would be more desirable for these otherwise healthy adolescents. The ApiFix® system is a novel less invasive short segment pedicle screw based instrumentation inserted around the apex of the main curve. The system has a ratchet mechanism that enables gradual postoperative device elongation and curve correction. The ratchet is activated by performing specific spinal exercises. The unique features of the device allow curve correction without fusion. The system which has a CE approval was employed in adolescents with main thoracic curves. More than a dozen of ApiFix surgeries have been performed so far. The preoperative Cobb angle was 45° ± 8, and 25° ± 8 at final follow up. The following is a report on three adolescent females aged 13-16 years with curves between 43°-53° and Risser sign of 1-4 who underwent surgery with ApiFix®. Two pedicle screws were inserted around the curve apex and the ratchet based device with polyaxial ring connectors was attached to the screws. No fusion attempt was made. Operative time was around one hour. Two weeks after surgery the patients were instructed to perform Schroth like daily exercises with the aim of rod elongation and gradual curve correction. Patients were followed between 6 months to 2 years. Curves were reduced and maintained between 22- 33°. Patients were pain free and were able to perform their spinal exercises. Postoperative gradual elongation of the device was observed. No screw loosening or rod breakage were observed. No adding on or curve progression was seen. Three factors may contribute to the ApiFix® success: polyaxial connections that prevent mechanical failure, gradual curve correction by spinal motion and spinal growth modulation. The ApiFix® system allows managing moderate AIS with a simple and minor surgical intervention. Recovery is rapid with negligible motion loss. It allows gradual and safe curve correction with high patient satisfaction. It may also serve as an internal brace for AIS.

Radiographic predisposing factors for degenerative spondylolisthesis

This study was a retrospective radiographic study involving analysis of computed tomography scans obtained for patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis of the L4-L5 segment and a control group. The purpose of the study was to identify radiological predisposing factors for degenerative spondylolisthesis of the L4-L5 segment. The authors reviewed all computed tomography scans (N=3370) performed at their institution between January 2005 and December 2008. Eighty-four patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis were identified and compared with a control group regarding facet joint orientation, the presence of sacralization of the L5 vertebra, the presence of major degenerative changes in the L5-S1 disk space, and the location of the intercrestal line. There was a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups regarding facet joint orientation, with more sagittal facet joints in the degenerative spondylolisthesis group (56° and 54° in the right and left facets, respectively, in the study group, and 46° and 42° in the right and left facets, respectively, in the control group) (P<.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups regarding the presence of sacralization of the L5 vertebra, the presence of major degenerative changes in the L5-S1 disk space, and the location of the intercrestal line relative to the lumbar spine. There is an association between sagittal orientation of the facet joints at the L4-L5 segment and degenerative spondylolisthesis at the same level.

Pediatric scoliosis surgery--is postoperative intensive care unit admission really necessary?

BACKGROUND

It is common practice for patients to be admitted to the intensive care unit following scoliosis surgery, because of the prolonged anesthesia, the need for efficient pain control and the known immediate postoperative complications. However, this may be unnecessary in many patients.

PURPOSE

We aimed to establish possible associations between pre- and perioperative parameters and early postoperative complication rates, in particular the need for prolonged mechanical ventilation (>1 day), and the presence of major complications in children undergoing primary spinal fusion by thoracolumbar spine instrumentation.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of children undergoing primary scoliosis surgery at a university-affiliated general hospital from 1998 to 2008.

RESULTS

Surgical approaches were as follows: anterior spinal fusion, posterior spinal fusion, and combined anterior and posterior fusion. Prior to mid-2005, anesthesia included morphine; thereafter, remifentanil was used. Major complications correlated significantly with neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS) (OR, 4.94; 95% CI, 1.02-24.05), comorbidity conditions (OR, 3.47; 95% CI, 1.16-10.42), and anterior or combined fusion (OR, 7.81; 95% CI, 2.12-28.57). Late extubation correlated significantly with NMS (OR, 31.25; 95% CI, 1.06-100.00) and morphine use during anesthesia (OR, 17.91; 95% CI, 1.44-222.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Relatively young, healthy idiopathic scoliosis children receiving intraoperative remifentanil sedation and undergoing posterior fusion can be successfully managed in regular wards in the immediate postoperative period. However, intensive care unit admission should be considered in NMS patients, patients with comorbidity conditions, those undergoing anterior or combined spinal fusion, and patients whose anesthesia involves long-acting opioids.

Remifentanil use in pediatric scoliosis surgery-an effective alternative to morphine (a retrospective study)

PURPOSE

The unique properties of remifentanil make it ideal for pediatric use despite a lack of wide randomized clinical trials and fear of adverse events due to its high potency. We aimed to consolidate preliminary conclusions regarding the efficacy of remifentanil use in pediatric scoliosis surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical charts of children with idiopathic scoliosis who underwent primary spinal fusion between 1998 and 2007 at a large tertiary university-affiliated hospital were retrospectively reviewed and divided into two groups according to anesthetic regime (remifentanil vs. morphine). Demographic, surgery-related details and immediate postoperative course were recorded and compared.

RESULTS

All 36 remifentanil children were extubated shortly after termination of surgery, compared to 2 of the 84 patients in the morphine group. The remaining patients in the morphine group were extubated hours after surgery [5.4 hours; standard deviation (SD) 1.7 hours]. Six remifentanil children were spared routine intensive care hospitalization (vs. 2 morphine children-significant difference). Shorter surgeries [5.6 hours (SD 1.82 hours) vs. 7.14 hours (SD 2.15 hours); p=0.0004] were logged for the remifentanil group. To achieve controlled hypotension during surgery, vasodilator agents were used in the morphine group only. A comparison of early postoperative major or minor complication rates (including neurological and pulmonary complications) between the two groups yielded no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

Remifentanil use can shorten operating time and facilitate earlier spontaneous ventilation and extubation, with less of a need for intensive care hospitalization and no increase in significant complications.

Reversing the concept: correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis using the convex rod de-rotation maneuver

PURPOSE

To show the radiological results of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients treated with posterior fusion using all-pedicle-screw construct with correction carried out using a convex rod reduction technique.

METHODS

Between October 2004 and June 2007, 42 AIS patients were treated with posterior fusion using all-pedicle-screw construct with correction done through the convex side. Two patients were lost to follow-up and were not included in the study. Forty patients had a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Patients were evaluated for the deformity correction in coronal and sagittal planes and for spinal balance.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative Cobb angle of the major curve and secondary minor curves was 60° and 41°, respectively. Immediate postoperative mean Cobb angle of the major curve and secondary minor curves was 17° and 13°, respectively. Postoperative 2-year average major curve loss of correction was 7 %. Postoperative 2-year average minor curve loss of correction was 5 %. Preoperative thoracic kyphosis of 28° was changed to 22° in 2-years follow-up. The loss of thoracic kyphosis was most noted in hyperkyphotic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The correction of AIS by convex-sided pedicular screws yields a coronal correction comparable to what is described in the literature for segmental concave-sided screws.

Isolated unilateral facet dislocation of the lumbosacral junction

Traumatic unilateral facet dislocation of the lumbosacral junction without fracture or with non-displaced fractures of adjacent vertebrae is extremely rare. We describe a case of a young male who sustained a unilateral facet dislocation of the lumbosacral junction in a motor vehicle accident. The unusual features of this case include an unremarkable physical and neurological examination on presentation and absence of other substantial vertebral or extra-vertebral injuries.

Diabetes mellitus as a risk factor for the development of lumbar spinal stenosis

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a multi-organ disorder affecting many types of connective tissues, including bone and cartilage. Certain skeletal changes are more prevalent in diabetic patients than in non-diabetic individuals. A possible association of diabetes mellitus and lumbar spinal stenosis has been raised.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in patients with spinal stenosis, degenerative disk disease or osteoporotic vertebral fractures.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was performed of 395 consecutive patients diagnosed with spinal stenosis, degenerative disk disease or osteoporotic vertebral fractures. All the patients were examined by one senior author in the outpatient orthopedic clinic of a large general hospital between June 2004 and January 2006 and diagnosed as having lumbar spinal stenosis (n=225), degenerative disk disease (n=124), or osteoporotic vertebral fractures (n=46).

RESULTS

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the three groups (spinal stenosis, osteoporotic fracture, degenerative disk disease) was 28%, 6.5% and 12.1%, respectively, revealing a significantly higher prevalence in the spinal stenosis group compared with the others (P=0.001). The higher prevalence of diabetes in the stenotic patients was unrelated to the presence of degenerative spondylolisthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an association between diabetes and lumbar spinal stenosis. Diabetes mellitus may be a predisposing factor for the development of lumbar spinal stenosis.

Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome: Apropos of Six Cases and Review of the Literature

Hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rather rare condition and is a term used to describe an aneurysm or thrombosis of the ulnar artery. It is considered an occupational or recreational injury and is usually a result of a repetitive trauma to the hypothenar region where the unique anatomy of the Guyon canal allows arterial injury. HHS is one of the less common causes of symptomatic ischemia of the upper extremity. The aim of this article is to describe our experience with six patients. Presenting signs, symptoms, differential diagnoses, and literature review of this probably underdiagnosed syndrome are described. There are two pathologic entities: the aneurysmal type and the thrombotic type. Although most authors recommend watchful observation for the thrombotic type, reconstructive surgery is the treatment of choice for the aneurysmal type.

Risk factors affecting the immediate postoperative course in pediatric scoliosis surgery

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of pediatric records of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) and neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS) etiology, in a search for complications and their risk factors immediately following surgical repair.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of pre- and intraoperative parameters on the postoperative course and lay the cornerstone for a course-prediction model.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Only a few studies have addressed the immediate postoperative complications of pediatric scoliosis surgery.

METHODS

Our study included all children who underwent spinal fusion for scoliosis in our hospital between 1998 and 2006. The following data were collected: curve etiology, Cobb angle, number of fused vertebrae, fusion approach, and the addition of thoracoplasty. We evaluated the influence of this data on the rate of delayed extubations, length of intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization, and the presence of major and minor immediate postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The study included 126 children (95 IS and 31 NMS). Delayed extubations were recorded in 17 children (3% of IS vs. 45% of NMS). The most common major and minor complications were pulmonary and hematological-biochemical, respectively. Overall pulmonary complications (major and minor) were recorded in 38 children. Major complications (of any category) were recorded in 19 children. Average length of ICU hospitalization was 3.8 days. The rate of complications in the NMS group was significantly higher than in the idiopathic group. Posterior fusions were associated with a significantly lower rate of pulmonary complications and shorter ICU hospitalizations, in comparison to anterior and combined fusions. Cobb angle, number of fused vertebrae, and the addition of thoracoplasty did not correlate with any postoperative parameters.

CONCLUSION

While NMS etiology, anterior and combined fusions correlated with a worse course, the Cobb angle, number of fused vertebrae, and the addition of thoracoplasty did not. Optimization of postoperative care should be carried out accordingly. Scoliosis surgery is safe even in extreme curves and long fusions. Thoracoplasty can be added whenever indicated, in order to improve the overall outcome.

Pediatric Scoliosis Surgery - the association between preoperative risk factors and postoperative complications with emphasis on cerebral palsy children

Scoliosis repair surgery is a common procedure. Our study's first goal was to compare pre- and postoperative parameters between the cerebral palsy (CP) and idiopathic scoliosis (IS) children. The second goal was to establish possible associations between preoperative parameters that could predict the outcome of spinal surgery and the incidence of early postoperative complications. A retrospective record review of all children who underwent scoliosis operative surgery between 1998 and 2007 was conducted. Of the 141 children included, 21 were CP and 120 were IS. The CP children attended surgery with significantly lower weight and pulmonary reserves and had larger curves and fusions compared to the IS children. CP children had a significantly higher rate of major complications, especially pulmonary and neurological, and a higher rate of delayed extubations. In addition, young age at surgery and posterior spinal fusion correlated with a more favorable immediate postoperative prognosis among the IS population. CP children attended surgery in worse physical condition and in turn had a poorer immediate and short-term postoperative prognosis than IS children. Young age at surgery and posterior fusions revealed protective characteristics among the IS population.

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome after scoliosis repair surgery: a case study and reassessment of the syndrome's pathogenesis

We carried out a retrospective analysis to investigate the prevalence of superior mesentery artery syndrome (SMAS) in children who underwent scoliosis surgical repair at our hospital between 1998 and 2006 and to reassess the syndrome's pathogenesis. Among 133 consecutive pediatric patients, two cases were identified, both 13-year-old girls with idiopathic scoliosis, undergoing surgery using third-generation instrumentation systems. Conservative management achieved resolution of the symptoms without recurrence. SMAS prevalence in our series was 1.6%. SMAS might occur after derotation and translation forces application, and even with nonextreme corrections. Low BMI and significant weight loss at presentation are not mandatory.

Management of deep wound infection after posterior lumbar interbody fusion with cages

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate long-term treatment outcome of patients with infected posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) managed with surgical debridement and or prolonged antiobiotic treatment without removal of the interbody cages.

METHODS

Between 1996 and 1999, 8 out of 111 patients who underwent PLIF were diagnosed with deep wound infection (7.2%). All infected patients were clinically followed for at least 2 years after completion of the antibiotic treatment. Longer follow-up of at least 6 years duration was performed by a telephone interview.

RESULTS

Six patients were managed with surgical debridement, wound irrigation, and primary closure of the wound. None of the patients required removal of the instrumentation. In 2 patients, the PLIF cages were repositioned in the face of infection. All 8 patients received 4 to 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotic therapy followed by another 6 to 9 weeks of oral antibiotic administration. At 2-year follow-up, no clinical or laboratory signs of recurrent infection were evident. Four of the 8 patients reported improved clinical status compared with their prefusion status. At 6-year follow-up, 3 patients had minimal disability according to the Oswestry Disability Index and 2 patients had moderate disability with residual leg pain.

CONCLUSIONS

In cases of postoperative deep wound infection after PLIF with cages, removal of the interbody implants is not necessary. Treatment is composed of prolonged antibiotic therapy guided by antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolated bacteria and supplemented with extensive surgical debridement if needed.

[Diagnosis and treatment of spine metastases]

Metastatic disease of the spine occurs in as many as 70% of cancer patients. Patients may present with pain, neurologic deficit, or both. Treatment options include medical therapy, radiation, and surgery. The diversity of patients' conditions, tumors pathology, and the extent of disease complicate decision making and treatment. Treatment goals are palliative, aiming for pain control and maintenance of mobility. A multimodality therapy, results in better outcomes.

Intermediate Screws in Short Segment Pedicular Fixation for Thoracic and Lumbar Fractures

To determine the effect of adding pedicle screws at the level of a burst fracture (intermediate screws) on the stiffness of a short segment pedicle fixation, an in vitro biomechanical study was carried out. Six fresh-frozen pig lumbar spine specimens were used. The flexibility of the intact specimens was examined in flexion, extension, lateral bending, and torsion. An unstable burst fracture model was created by the dropped-mass technique. The unstable spine specimens were instrumented with pedicle screws. The flexibility was tested again with and without intermediate screws. The addition of intermediate screws provided a smaller range of motion in flexion-extension (P<0.001), torsion (P<0.001), and lateral bending (P=0.014). The slopes of the load displacement curves increased in flexion (P<0.001), extension (P=0.003), lateral bending (P=0.003), and torsion (P=0.006), signifying a decrease in flexibility. The addition of intermediate screws at the level of a burst fracture significantly increases the stiffness of a short segment pedicular fixation.

Treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis with a total posterior arthroplasty prosthesis: implant description, surgical technique, and a prospective report on 29 patients

OBJECT

Total disc replacement is an alternative to lumbar fusion, but patients with spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and facet arthropathy are often excluded from this procedure because increased adjacent-segment motion can exacerbate dorsal spondylotic changes. In such cases of degenerative spondylolisthesis with stenosis, decompression and fusion remain the gold standard of treatment. To avoid attendant loss of motion at the treated segment, the TOPS system is a novel total posterior arthroplasty prosthesis that allows for an alternative dynamic, multiaxial, three-column stabilization and motion preservation. The purpose of this study is to report preliminary surgical data and clinical outcomes in patients treated with the TOPS lumbar total posterior arthroplasty system.

METHODS

Twenty-nine patients were enrolled in a nonrandomized, multicenter, prospective pilot study outside the US. All patients had spinal stenosis and/or spondylolisthesis at L4-5 due to facet arthropathy. Radiographs and scores on outcome measures including the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short Form-36, and Zurich Claudication Questionnaire were prospectively recorded before surgery and at 6-week, 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year intervals after surgery. Prior to instrumentation, a bilateral total facetectomy and laminectomy at L4-5 or L3-4 was performed via a standard midline posterior approach. After decompression, the TOPS screws were inserted into four pedicles to achieve maximal purchase with triangulating bicortical trajectories. An appropriately sized TOPS arthroplasty implant was then applied. The mean surgical time was 3.1 hours, and patients' clinical status improved significantly following treatment with the TOPS device. The mean ODI score decreased compared with baseline by 41% at 1 year, and the 100-mm VAS score declined by 76 mm over the same time period. Radiographic analysis showed that lumbar motion was maintained, disc height was preserved, and no evidence of screw loosening was found. No device malfunctions or migrations and no device-related adverse events were reported during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

The TOPS total posterior arthroplasty system represents a novel, dynamic, posterior arthroplasty device that provides multiaxial stability in flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending after total facetectomy and neural decompression. The surgical data indicate that it can be safely applied via a traditional approach with low surgical morbidity and excellent 1-year functional and radiographic outcomes in patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis accompanied by stenosis and back pain.

Avoiding neurologic complications following ligation of the segmental vessels during anterior instrumentation of the thoracolumbar spine

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective evaluation of anterior instrumentation of the vertebral bodies in the thoracolumbar spine.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the possibility of preserving the segmental vessels following anterior instrumentation.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Occlusion of the segmental vessels, routinely performed during anterior spine instrumentation, might cause neurologic injury secondary to cord ischemia.

METHODS

The medical data of 29 patients following anterior instrumentation of the vertebral bodies at the thoracolumbar spine were reviewed. All underwent surgery recently when we decided to preserve the segmental vessels whenever possible. We sought the reasons that enabled us to do so regarding age, gender, underlying pathology, surgical technique, operation duration, instrumentation type and size, and location in the vertebral body.

RESULTS

In only 7 patients, fused between T10 and L5, were we able to preserve the segmental vessels. All were instrumented with one 6.25-7-mm wide screw in each vertebral body connected by one rod, approximately half the screws above and half below the segmental vessels. In 22 patients, we were unable to preserve the vessels due to the need to insert 2 screws or a large threaded wide vertebral cage into each vertebra.

CONCLUSIONS

There is adequate space anteriorly in the vertebral body, above and below the segmental vessels, for the insertion of one screw, even with staples.

Thoracic and lumbar spine radiographs for walking trauma patients--is it necessary?

Numerous patients ambulating independently arrive in the Emergency Department complaining of back pain after being involved in a motor vehicle crash (MVC). We examined the yield of routine screening radiographs of the lumbar and thoracic spine in these patients. A retrospective review was carried out of the records of 3173 patients who were involved in a MVC during a 1-year period and presented to a single medical center. Radiographs of the lumbar spine, thoracic spine, or both were obtained in all patients complaining of back pain. Of 3173 ambulating MVC trauma patients, 35% (1110 patients) complained of thoracic or lumbar back pain. None of the lumbar and thoracic spine radiographs that were obtained in these patients was positive for a fracture or dislocation. The current study suggests that the yield of the routine use of spinal radiographs is very low in patients ambulating independently and complaining of back pain after a MVC.

Mid- to long-term outcome of disc excision in adolescent disc herniation

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Adolescent disc herniation and its surgical treatment have been the subjects of many published clinical series. The majority of these series were heterogeneous; the number of adolescent patients (12-17 years) as opposed to young adults (18-20 years) was generally small and the length of follow-up varied greatly. Although the short-term outcome of disc excision in adolescents was mostly favorable, their long-term outcome is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the mid- and long-term results of discectomy in patients younger than 17 years of age.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective examination of a series of adolescent patients under the age of 17 years who underwent surgery for lumbar intervertebral disc herniation.

PATIENT SAMPLE

The medical records of 26 patients (15 males, 11 females, 12-17 years old [average 14.6]) who were operated for lumbar intervertebral disc herniation in three spine centers between 1984 and 2002 were reviewed. These subjects represented the total number of patients meeting the criteria of adolescents undergoing discectomy for lumbar disc herniation in these institutions during the study period. All patients were located and contacted by an independent observer not involved in the care of these patients. Low back pain associated with leg pain was the main clinical symptom in 20 patients (77%), leg pain in 4 (15%), and back pain in 2 (8%). They all underwent posterior disc excision: 23 (88%) patients had one level discectomy, and 3 (12%) had simultaneous discectomy at two levels. The L4-L5 interspace was involved 19 times, and the L5-S1 interspace 10 times. Slipped vertebral apophysis was diagnosed in 4 patients (15%). Twelve of the 26 patients (46%) had a first-degree relative with a history of lumbar disc herniation.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Telephone interviews provided follow-up data for 26 patients. Results were classified as excellent, good, moderate, or poor according to current symptom status, the need for additional surgery, the Oswestry Disability Index, and back and leg pain scores.

RESULTS

The average time from surgery to follow-up was 8.9 years (range 3-21 years). At follow-up, the clinical results were excellent in 13 patients (50%), good in 4 (15%), moderate in 8 (31%), and poor in 1 (4%). Four subjects (15%) underwent a subsequent disc excision in the lumbar region, and one of them later underwent fusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Discectomy provides satisfactory clinical results in young patients with disc herniation. The rate of reintervention (15%) is comparable to that in adults, indicating that discectomy for young patients should be approached similarly to that in adults.

Intradiscal cement leak following percutaneous vertebroplasty

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study to detect patients with cement leakage into the disc space following vertebroplasty.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency, causes, and clinical significance of cement leakage into the disc space.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Much has been written about cement leakage into the epidural space following vertebroplasty but only little about intradiscal leakage.

METHODS

A total of 66 patients with 1 cemented osteoporotic, fractured vertebra between T5 and L5 were followed for at least 2 years. Two of the senior authors (Y.M. and A.P.) evaluated independently cement leakage into the disc space, possible causes were investigated, and the clinical results were evaluated according to patient self-assessment.

RESULTS

Detected in 27 patients, cement leakage into the disc space did not negatively affect patient satisfaction with the procedure. In 7 of these patients, leakage occurred through an intravertebral vacuum cleft and, in 8, through a perforation of the endplate created by the needle tip. In only 2 patients was cement found to cross the height of the vertebral body and leak into the contralateral disc.

CONCLUSIONS

Apart from iatrogenic endplate perforation, cement extravasation into the disc space was always found to occur through the fractured endplate or a vacuum cleft. Placing the needle tip far from the fractured endplate and using more solid cement appear to decrease the risk of leakage.

Accuracy and Safety of Thoracic Pedicle Screw Placement in Spinal Deformities

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety of pedicle screw fixation in thoracic spine deformity correction.

METHODS

One hundred twelve pedicle screws were surgically placed in 25 patients with degenerative, posttraumatic, and Scheuermann kyphosis and idiopathic and neuromuscular scoliosis. Screw position was evaluated using intraoperative and postoperative radiographs and thin-slice computed tomography.

RESULTS

Of the total 112 thoracic pedicle screws that were inserted, 98 screws (87.5%) were fully contained within the cortical boundaries of the pedicle. When comparing proximal screws (T1-T8) with distal screws (T9-T12) and convex placed screws with concave ones, a statistically significant difference in screw placement was evident (P < 0.05). More misplaced screws were seen proximally and on the concave side. Of the 14 malpositioned screws, 2 (1.8%) demonstrated aortic abutment. There were no neurologic deficits, vascular injuries, or mechanical failures recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

Placement of thoracic pedicle screws is both feasible and safe.

Vacuum clefts of the vertebral bodies

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The appearance of vacuum clefts (VCs) of the vertebral bodies has frequently been considered pathognomonic for avascular necrosis. Until recently, this was considered to be a rare finding that might indicate excessive motion at the fracture site. Our aim in this retrospective study was to determine the occurrence and location of these clefts in patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures and evaluate the risk factors involved for developing these clefts in such patients.

METHODS

The records of 66 patients with 101 painful osteoporotic vertebral fractures who were treated by vertebroplasty in our department were reviewed. All the fractures with VCs were collected. Age, sex, degree of deformity, and extent of degenerative changes in the adjacent disk space were compared with those found in the patients without clefts.

RESULTS

VCs were found in 26 fractured vertebrae of 26 patients. They were significantly more common in elderly men who had deformed fractures located at the thoracolumbar junction, when compared with fractures without clefts, especially when degenerative changes were observed in the adjacent disk space.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that VCs, which have long been considered pathognomonic for avascular necrosis (Kümmell disease), are not rare and most probably represent fracture nonunion. Elderly patients who have deformed fractures at the thoracolumbar area have a higher risk for developing clefts, mainly when there is degeneration of the adjacent disk space.

Platelet gel (AGF) fails to increase fusion rates in instrumented posterolateral fusions

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect on fusion of adding platelet gel to autologous iliac crest graft.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Platelet gel is an osteoinductive material prepared by ultra-concentration of platelets and contains multiple growth factors. Proprietary commercial methods are available for harvesting autologous platelet gel concentrates for use as graft supplement in spine fusions.

METHODS

We reviewed 76 consecutive patients who underwent instrumented posterolateral lumbar fusion with autologous iliac crest bone graft mixed with autologous growth factor (AGF). A control group was randomly selected from patients who underwent instrumented posterolateral lumbar fusion with autologous bone graft alone. The groups were matched for age, sex, smoking history, and number of levels fused. Demographic, surgical, and clinical data were collected from medical records. Diagnosis of nonunion was based on exploration during revision surgery or evidence of nonunion on computerized tomography. The Fisher exact test was used to compare fusion rates.

RESULTS

In both groups, mean age was 50 years, and 24% were smokers. The nonunion rate was 25% in the AGF group and 17% in the control group. This difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.18).

CONCLUSIONS

Platelet gel preparation requires blood draws from the patient. This procedure adds to the risk and cost of surgery. The technique for AGF harvest evaluated in this study provides the highest concentration of platelets among the commercially available methods. Despite this, we showed that platelet gel failed to enhance fusion rate when added to autograft in patients undergoing instrumented posterolateral spinal fusion. The authors do not recommend the use of platelet gel to supplement autologous bone graft during instrumented posterolateral spinal fusion.

Good results of circumferential spine fusion in smokers, using autograft and allograft

We have examined the rates of anterior interbody fusion of lumbar spine segments following fusion with a fresh frozen femoral head allograft in 25 heavy smoking patients. They were all stabilized both anteriorly and posteriorly. The indications for surgery were: degenerative disc disease, degenerative spondylolisthesis and nonunion following previous posterolateral fusion of lumbar spine segments. Only patients who had fusion of one or two lumbar segments were included. They all were stabilized posteriorly with pedicle screws and autogenic iliac bone graft. The fusion was assessed at least one year after surgery according to plan X-rays as "Solid", "Questionable" or "Failure". One patient was found at follow up not fused, in another one the fusion was "questionable" and all the other 23 patients had an anterior solid fusion. Clinically, 84% of the patients had the same or improved work status as before surgery and 68% acknowledged that they were satisfied with the surgical results. No major complications were recorded and the average length of hospitalization was 10.3 days.

Aspirin therapy and bleeding during proximal femoral fracture surgery

To assess the effect of daily low-dose aspirin therapy on perioperative bleeding of patients operated on for proximal femoral fracture, we did a prospective case-control study. During 14 months, we followed up 104 patients, 39 of whom were taking aspirin before the injury. The bleeding was estimated by the number of blood units needed perioperatively, the change in hemoglobin values, and followup on complications and drain volume. The aspirin-treated group received an average of 0.5 units of blood more than the control group, postoperatively. This finding was statistically significant. The groups did not differ significantly in any other bleeding parameter. No major bleeding occurred in the patients. It is safe to do surgery for a proximal femoral fracture in patients who are taking aspirin.