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Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the trends in infectious spondylitis over the past two decades. Methods: We included 157 cases, from 2000 to 2020, of infectious spondylitis. The cases were divided into two groups: 00 (cases during 2000–2009; 82 cases:) and 10 (cases during 2010–2020; 75 cases) groups. Patients' age, sex, causative organism, and localization were examined and compared between the two groups. Results: The proportions of women in the 00 and 10 groups were 30.5% and 38.7%, respectively, with no significant difference (P = 0.28). The average age was significantly higher in the 10 group (72.6 years) than in the 00 group (68.8 years; P < 0.01). A compromised host was the cause of infection in 52.4% and 36.0% of the patients in the 00 and 10 groups, respectively, showing a significant difference. The bacterial identification rates were 70.1% and 77.3% in the 00 and 10 groups, respectively (P < 0.01), and the genus Staphylococcus was the most common bacteria. The proportions of resistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the 00 and 10 groups were 27.3% and 6.7%, respectively (P < 0.01). Conversely, infectious diseases caused by indigenous bacteria in the oral cavity and intestines were more common in the 10group (37.8%) than in the 00 group (13.0%), showing a significant difference (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Recently, infections caused by indigenous bacteria in the oral cavity and intestines have increased more than those caused by resistant bacteria over the past two decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Previous studies have shown that percutaneous pedicle screw (PPS) posterior fixation without anterior debridement for pyogenic spondylitis can improve patient quality of life compared with conservative treatment. However, data on the risk of recurrence after PPS posterior fixation compared with conservative treatment is lacking. The aim of this study was to compare the recurrence rate of pyogenic spondylitis after PPS posterior fixation without anterior debridement and conservative treatment. Methods: The study was conducted under a retrospective cohort design in patients hospitalized for pyogenic spondylitis between January 2016 and December 2020 at 10 affiliated institutions. We used propensity score matching to adjust for confounding factors, including patient demographics, radiographic findings, and isolated microorganisms. We estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for recurrence of pyogenic spondylitis during the follow-up period in the matched cohort. Results: 148 patients (41 in the PPS group and 107 in the conservative group) were included. After propensity score matching, 37 patients were retained in each group. PPS posterior fixation without anterior debridement was not associated with an increased risk of recurrence compared with conservative treatment with orthosis (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.18–3.59; P = 0.77). Conclusions: In this multi-center retrospective cohort study of adults hospitalized for pyogenic spondylitis, we found no association in the incidence of recurrence between PPS posterior fixation without anterior debridement and conservative treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spondylodiscitis is a severe condition where standalone antibiotic therapy resolves most cases. In refractory infections, open surgery may aid with infection debulking. However, significant morbidity can occur. Nowadays, endoscopic approaches are emerging as an alternative. However, until now, only small-scale studies exist. Being so, we carried the first systematic review on spondylodiscitis endoscopic debridement indications, technique details, and outcomes. Methods: Search for all English written original studies approaching the spondylodiscitis endoscopic treatment was performed using PubMed and EBSCO host. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and a pre-specified protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42020183657). Results: Fourteen studies involving 342 participants were included for analysis. Data overall quality was fair. Indications for the endoscopic approach were poorly defined. The most consensual indication was refractory infection to conservative treatment. Spinal instability or neurological deficits were common exclusion criteria. All authors described similar techniques, and despite the frequent severe co-morbidities, procedure morbidity was low. Re-interventions were common. Microorganism identification varied from 54.2 to 90.4%. Treatment failure among studies ranged from 0 to 33%. Pain, functional status, and neurological deficits had satisfactory improvement after procedures. Conclusions: The endoscopic debridement of spondylodiscitis seems to be an effective and safe approach for refractory spondylodiscitis. A novel approach with initial endoscopic infection debulking and antibiotic therapy could improve the success of spondylodiscitis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Both pyogenic spondylitis (PS) and brucellar spondylitis (BS) can cause deformities and permanent neurologic deficits without prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, differential diagnosis is challenging. The aim of this study was to compare the computed tomography (CT) imaging features of PS with those of BS.Methods: Thirty-two patients with PS and 44 with BS were enrolled in the study. CT images were obtained in all cases. Data on bone destruction and formation, vertebral wall destruction, and osteosclerotic changes were collected and compared using the Chi-square test or t test. A P value < 0.01 was considered statistically significant. Positive predictive values (PPV) for detecting PS or BS were reported.Results: Involvement of the lumbar vertebrae and multiple spinal levels was more common in the BS group than in the PS group. Bone destruction was significantly greater in the PS group than in the BS group (30.8 vs 18.0%; t = 3.920, P = 0.000), with more extensive destruction of the vertebral body (35.8 vs 12.5%, χ2 = 12.672, P = 0.002, PPV = 63.16%). In the BS group, there was more osteosclerosis around erosions (70.5 vs 43.3%, χ2 = 11.59, P = 0.001, PPV = 67.74%) and fan-shaped osteosclerosis (27.3 vs 19.4%, χ2 = 18.556, P = 0.006, PPV = 64.86%), more bone formation around the vertebra (77.2 vs 34.3%, χ2 = 33.608, P = 0.000, PPV = 76.83%), more bone formation under the anterior longitudinal ligament (63.6 vs 19.4%, χ2 = 30.133, P = 0.000, PPV = 76.09%), more longer anterior bone formation (3.55 vs 0.78 mm, t = 3.997, P = 0.000), and more anterior and closed-bone formation with local erosion (42.0 vs 9.0%, χ2 = 74.243, P = 0.000, PPV = 74.36%).Conclusions: CT images have unique advantages of revealing the morphology of erosions, osteosclerosis, and bone formation around the vertebra and help to differentiate PS from BS. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ureteric injuries are rarely associated with spinal trauma with an incidence of less than 1%. Missed injuries can lead to urinoma collection, urosepsis and even death. Materials and methods: A 75-year-old man presented 1 month following fall with high-grade fever and severe back pain mimicking spondylodiscitis clinically. Plain radiograph showed features of ankylosing spondylitis with a suspicious trans-discal injury at L3–L4. Hyper-intense fluid within L3/L4 disk space communicating to a large psoas collection measuring 13 × 6 cms mimicking spondylodiscitis with abscess formation was observed in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI with contrast enhancement demonstrated a leak through left ureter into the psoas muscle raising suspicion of a ureteric injury. Plain computerized tomography revealed a three-column fracture at L4, and a ureteric leak into the psoas collection with proximal hydronephrosis was seen after contrast administration, establishing the presence of a ureteric fistula resulting in urinoma. Results: Following initial symptomatic improvement after ureteric stenting, the patient succumbed to urosepsis at 3 months. Conclusion: We report for the first time a post-traumatic urinoma secondary to ureteric injury clinically mimicking spondylodiscitis. Clinicians need to be aware of the possibility of ureteric injury in hyperextension lumbar fractures occurring in ankylosing spondylitis and treat them early to avoid urological complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI is used for examining the features of malignant tumours in radiology, and we can obtain more information in terms of the diffusion of the media over the course of time. The purpose of this study was to clarify the usefulness of DCE-MRI for distinguishing pyogenic spondylitis (PS) and tuberculous spondylitis (TB).Methods: Forty-five consecutive patients diagnosed with PS (68.6 ± 11.1 years old, males 30 and females 15) and 14 with TB (73.9 ± 9.1 years old, males 6 and females 8) were involved. DCE-MRI consisted of serial six sagittal images which were taken every 20 s after intravenous gadolinium administration. Degree of enhancement, presence of epidural abscess, presence of necrosis in vertebra, presence of enhancement in disc lesion, pattern of diffusion, and maximum contrast index were examined and compared between PS and TB.Results: Degree of enhancement, percentage of epidural abscess, and percentage of necrosis in vertebra were 2.1 ± 0.5 and 1.8 ± 0.8, 60.7% and 100%, 50.0% and 66.7% for PS and TB, respectively, without statistical difference. Maximum contrast index, percentage of the diffusion pattern from the disc, and percentage of enhanced disc were 108.1 ± 22.3 and 78.2 ± 35.6 s, 89.3% and 0%, and 53.6% and 0% for PS and TB, respectively, with statistical significance.Conclusions: This study indicated that longer maximum contrast index, higher likelihood of diffusion pattern from the disc, and higher likelihood of enhanced disc are more specific to PS than TB. This less invasive imaging technique is useful for more accurate diagnosis of PS and TB. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of anterior fusion option on the short- and long-time outcomes on multilevel spinal reconstructions in young children.Methods: Forty-five patients aged under 4 years old (2 years 2 months ± 11 months in average) underwent spinal reconstruction due to tuberculosis spondylitis (35), pyogenic spondylitis (9) and spinal tumors (1) complicated by angular kyphosis exceeded 20° (49.2° ± 14.3° in average). All lesions involved two or more spinal motion segments. Clinical and radiographic data were compared in two groups depended on the types of anterior fusion: titanium mesh cage with bone graft (TMC + BG) (19 patients) and cortical BG only (26). The average follow-up was 5 years 10 months ± 2 years 8 months (min = 3 years; max = 12 years).Results: The deformity correction was similar in groups. The operation time and blood loss were less in TMC + BG group (p = 0.001) as a times for anterior bone block formation (p < 0.001) and posterior instrumentation removal (p = 0.003). Ten late post-op complications registered include disease's recurrence (1), pseudoarthrosis (6), deformity progression (1) and graft resorption (1). The complication rate was less in TMC + BG than in BG group: two and eight cases consequently, p = 0.024.Conclusions: Multilevel spinal reconstruction in early aged patients is safe and effective procedure. The anterior fusion by TMC with bone autograft has advantages of reducing blood loss, operation time, time for anterior block formation and complications rate compared with bone autograft only. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cerebrovascular ischaemia is a rare but serious complication of damage to the carotid or vertebral arteries in the neck caused by blunt injury to the neck. Screening for blunt cerebrovascular injury should be performed in patients with certain signs or symptoms and risk factors. We described a case of traumatic bilateral vertebral artery injury (VAI) including unilateral vertebral arterial occlusion that resolved 3 months post-injury with antiplatelet and direct oral anticoagulant therapy. This resolution of traumatic bilateral VAI is very rare. Vertebral artery injury should be suspected in patients with displaced fracture dislocation of the cervical spine, particularly in the elder and those with ankylosing spondylitis, and therefore imaging of these patients should include a modality to look at the patency of the vertebral arteries.Case Description: A 70-year-old man who was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis collapsed and presented with tetraplegia. Computed tomography showed C3 fracture dislocation, and magnetic resonance imaging showed a high-signal intensity and intense compression of the spinal cord from C2 to C3. Cerebral angiogram showed left vertebral artery occlusion and right vertebral artery stenosis. Heparin was administered to prevent posterior circulation stroke and he underwent posterior fixation. Three months post-injury, a cerebral angiogram showed the resolution of the bilateral VAI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Pyogenic spondylodiscitis (PS) is still burdened by a high rate of orthopedic and neurological complications. Despite the rising incidence, the choice of a proper orthopedic treatment is often delayed by the lack of clinical data. The aim of this study was to propose a clinical-radiological classification of pyogenic spondylodiscitis to define a standard treatment algorithm.Methods: Based on data from 250 patients treated from 2008 to 2015, a clinical-radiological classification of pyogenic spondylodiscitis was developed. According to primary classification criteria (bone destruction or segmental instability, epidural abscesses and neurological impairment), three main classes were identified. Subclasses were defined according to secondary criteria. PS without segmental instability or neurological impairment was treated conservatively. When significant bone loss or neurological impairment occurred, surgical stabilization and/or decompression were performed. All patients underwent clinical and radiological 2-year follow-up.Results: Type A PS occurred in 84 patients, while 46 cases were classified as type B and 120 as type C. Average time of hospitalization was 51.94 days and overall healing rate was 92.80%. 140 patients (56.00%) were treated conservatively with average time of immobilization of 218.17 ± 9.89 days. Both VAS and SF-12 scores improved across time points in all classes. Residual chronic back pain occurred in 27 patients (10.80%). Overall observed mortality was 4.80%.Conclusions: Standardized treatment of PS is highly recommended to ensure patients a good quality of life. The proposed scheme includes all available orthopedic treatments and helps spine surgeons to significantly reduce complications and costs and to avoid overtreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Spondylodiscitis refers to infections of the intervertebral disc and the adjacent vertebral body. Although it is still considered a rare condition, its rate is projected to increase. Mortality rate is considered to be low, but an estimated one third of the survivors experience residual disabilities. Literature shows that uncomplicated spondylodiscitis can be adequately treated by early antibiotic therapy and immobilization. The aim of the study is to evaluate the outcome of conservative treatment in patients with haematogenous spondylodiscitis.Materials and Methods: All patients with haematogenous spondylodiscitis observed in two orthopaedic centres were retrospectively considered. The medical records, radiologic imaging, bacteriology results, treatment, and complications of all patients were reviewed.Results: Thirty patients (median age 64 years, range 15-77, females 56.7%) were considered in the study, eight (26.7%) showed residual back pain at median follow-up of 117 weeks (range 104-189). A significant difference in SF-36 physical (P < 0.001), SF-36 mental function (P < 0.002), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) (P < 0.001) scores was observed among patients with residual local pain compared to the ones who had not. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection and symptoms duration before the diagnosis were associated with an increased risk of persistent back pain and permanent disability. The most important negative determinants of SF-36 mental function were the age of patients (ρ = 0.36, P < 0.05), the duration of symptoms before the diagnosis (ρ = 0.44, P < 0.05) and MRSA infection (P = 0.006). Spondylodiscitis sustained by MRSA and the duration of symptoms before the diagnosis influenced negatively the physical status (P = 0.002) and ODI (ρ = 0.36, P < 0.05), respectively.Conclusions: Conservative approaches are safe and effective for patients without complications. A delayed diagnosis and MRSA infections are related to poor clinical outcome among patients treated by conservative treatment; this must be carried out scrupulously with close patient monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate whether acetabular orientation (abduction and anteversion) can be restored by lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis.Materials and Methods: A total of 33 consecutive AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis undergoing one-level lumbar PSO were retrospectively reviewed. Radiographical measurements included sagittal vertical axis, global kyphosis, thoracic kyphosis, local kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, pelvic incidence, sacral slope, and pelvic tilt. Acetabular abduction and anteversion were measured on CT scans of the pelvis before and after lumbar PSO. The preoperative and postoperative parameters were compared by the paired samples t test. Pearson's correlation analysis was conducted to determine the correlations between the changes in acetabular abduction and anteversion and the changes in sagittal spinopelvic parameters.Results: After lumbar PSO, sagittal vertical axis, global kyphosis, and pelvic tilt were corrected from 15.7 ± 6.7 cm, 66.8° ± 17.5°, and 38.6° ± 9.0° to 2.9 ± 4.9 cm, 21.3° ± 8.2°, and 23.2° ± 8.2°, respectively (p < 0.001). Of note, acetabular abduction and anteversion decreased from 59.6° ± 4.6° to 31.4° ± 6.5° before surgery to 51.4° ± 6.5° and 20.2° ± 4.4° after surgery, respectively (p < 0.001). Moreover, the changes in acetabular abduction and anteversion were observed significantly correlated with the change in pelvic tilt (r = 0.527, p = 0.002; r = 0.586, p < 0.001).Conclusion: Abnormal acetabular abduction and anteversion could be corrected by lumbar PSO in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. Consequently, a relatively normal acetabular orientation could be achieved after lumbar PSO, which might decrease the potential risk of dislocation in AS patients with spine and hip deformities requiring subsequent THR surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Established treatment options of spondylodiscitis, a rare but serious infection of the spine, are immobilization and systemic antibiosis. However, the available data for specific treatment recommendations are very heterogeneous. Our intention was to develop a classification of the severity of spondylodiscitis with appropriate treatment recommendations.Materials and Methods: From 10/1/1998 until 12/31/2004, 37 cases of spondylodiscitis were examined regarding medical history, gender status, location and extent of spondylodiscitis, type and number of operations. Subsequently, a classification of six grades according to severity has been developed with specific treatment recommendations. The further evaluation of our classification and corresponding treatment modalities from 1/1/2005 to 12/31/2009 including further 132 cases, resulted in a classification of only three grades of severity (the SSC--spondylodiscitis severity code), with a follow-up until 12/31/2011. Between 01/01/2012 and 12/31/2013, a prospective study of 42 cases was carried out. Overall, 296 cases were included in the study. 26 conservatively treated cases were excluded.Results and Conclusion: The main localization of spondylodiscitis was the lumbar spine (55%) followed by the thoracic spine (34%). The classification of patients into 3 grades of severity depends on clinical and laboratory parameters, the morphological vertebral destruction seen in radiological examinations and the current neurological status. Therapies are adapted according to severity and they include a specific surgical management, systemic antibiotic therapy according to culture and sensitivity tests, physiotherapy and initiation of post-hospital follow-up. 40.6% of patients are associated with neurological deficits, classified as severity grade 3 and treated surgically with spinal stabilization and decompression. 46.9% of patients corresponded to severity grade 2, with concomitant vertebral destruction were dorsoventrally stabilized. The 31 patients of severity Grade 1 were treated surgically with dorsal stabilization. From 1998 to 2013, the time from the onset of symptoms to the first surgical treatment was about 69.4 days and has not changed significantly. However, the time from admission to surgical treatment had been reduced to less than 2 days. Also the time of hospitalization was reduced and we see positive effects regarding the sensation of pain. 270 patients underwent surgery. We treated 89% dorsally and 21% dorsoventrally. With the spondylodiscitis severity code, a classification of the severity of spondylodiscitis could be established and used for a severity-based treatment. In addition, specific parameters for the treatment of individual grades of severity can be determined in a clinical pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We present a retrospective study of patients with multilevel contiguous tuberculous spondylitis of thoracic region that underwent single-stage posterolateral debridement and fusion and following posterior instrumentation.Methods: From June 2000 to March 2009, 870 consecutive spinal tubercular patients including 36 patients who were diagnosed and treated as multilevel contiguous thoracic spinal tuberculosis in our institution. Apart from five patients being treated conservatively, the 31 cases received surgery by single-stage posterolateral debridement, fusion, following posterior instrumentation and postural drainage. The patients were evaluated based on the Frankel scoring system, kyphotic Cobb angle, and visual analog scale (VAS) pain score.Results: The mean duration of postoperative follow-up was 79.2 ± 9.9 months (range 62-98 months). Neither mortalities nor any major complications were found. Solid bony fusion was achieved in all patients. No patients with neurological deficit deteriorated postoperatively. According to Frankel scoring system, 7 cases were rated as Grade D, 24 cases as Grade E at last follow-up. The average preoperative Cobb's angle was 32° (range 21°-39°). The average early postoperative Cobb's angle was 23° (range 15°-32°). The mean latest postoperative Cobb's angle was 26° (range 20°-32°), with a small loss of correction at last follow-up. Pre-op VAS was 8.8 ± 0.7 (range 7-10) and final follow-up was 1.8 ± 1.1. There was a significant difference of VAS between preoperation and the final follow-up.Conclusions: One-stage surgical treatment for multilevel contiguous spinal tuberculosis by posterolateral debridement, fusion, posterior instrumentation can be an effective and feasible treatment method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Postoperative spinal implant infection (PSII) places patients at risk for pseudarthrosis, correction loss, spondylodiscitis, adverse neurological sequelae, and even death; however, prognostic factors that predict long-term treatment outcomes have not been clearly investigated. In addition, few studies concerning the feasibility of reconstructing the failed spinal events have been published. Methods: We performed a cohort study of 51 patients who contracted PSII in the posterolateral thoracolumbar region at a single tertiary center between March 1997 and May 2007. Forty-seven patients (92.2 %) had one or more medical problems. Isolated bacterial species, infection severity, treatment timing, and hosts' defense response were evaluated to assess their relationship with management outcomes. The use of implant salvage, or removal subsequent with a revision strategy depended on the patient's general conditions, infection control, and implant status for fusion. Results: The most common infective culprit was Staphylococcus spp. found in 35 of 60 (58.3 %) isolates, including 20 methicillin-resistant species. Gram-negative bacilli and polymicrobial infection were found significantly in patients presenting early-onset, deep-site infection and myonecrosis. Prompt diagnosis and aggressive therapy were responsible for implant preservation in 41 of 51 cases (80.4 %), while implant removal noted in 10 cases (19.6 %) was attributed to delayed treatment and uncontrolled infection with implant loosening, correction loss, or late infection with spondylodesis. The number of employed debridements alone was not significantly correlated with successful implant preservation. Delayed treatment for infection >3 months significantly led to implant removal ( p < 0.05) and a higher number of failed spinal events. Patients with significant comorbidities, malnutrition, severe trauma, neurological deficits, long-level instrumentation, and delayed treatment had poor outcomes. Sixteen patients (31.4 %) exhibited probable nonunion or pseudarthrosis, and eight symptomatic patients among them underwent successful revision surgery. Conclusions: Retention of the mechanically sound implants in early-onset infection permits fusion to occur, while delayed treatment, severe malnutrition and multiple comorbidities will most likely result in a lack of effectiveness in eradicating the infecting pathogens. Restoring optimal physiological conditions is imperative in high-risk patients to allow for further healing. When loosened screws cause peridiscal erosion and incapacitating motion pain, premature implant removal possibly results in failed fusion and correction loss. Reconstruction for a failed spinal event is feasible following infection control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the safety and efficacy of using a single posterior approach with transforaminal lumbar interbody debridement and fusion (TLIDF) plus pedicle screws fixation in treating infective spondylodiscitis in the lumbar spine. Methods: Between January 2009 and June 2011, 28 patients with infective spondylodiscitis who underwent TLIDF, using autogenous graft and posterior pedicle screws instrumentation, met the indications for surgery, and completed more than 18 months of follow-up, were included. Clinical outcomes were assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Kirkaldy-Willis functional outcome criteria. Infection status was evaluated using C-reactive protein levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and clinical symptoms. The interbody fusion status and sagittal alignment of the infected segments were assessed using radiographic studies. Results: Intra-operative culture rate was 82.1 %. The most common pathogen was methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. One post-operative deep wound infection with septic implant loosening and one instance of early aseptic implant loosening were noted. Implants in both patients were subsequently removed. Two infections recurred within 3 months post-operatively, with both subsiding within 3 months after extended antibiotic treatment. VAS and ODI values were significantly improved. The interbody fusion rate was 82.1 % and the lordotic angle of the infected segments and the lumbar spine were corrected by 9.7° and 14.3°, respectively at the last follow-up. Conclusions: A single posterior approach with TLIDF and pedicle screws instrumentation for lumbar infective spondylodiscitis provided a satisfactory clinical outcome, adequate infection control and good fusion rate, and this strategy avoids the risks of anterior or staging surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The incidence of spondylodiscitis is increasing. This study evaluates the behavior of cervical spondylodiscitis over a period of two decades in a single institution and compares the findings with the literature. Methods: Between 1994 and 1999, 20 consecutive patients (group A) suffering from cervical spondylodiscitis underwent surgical treatment in our institution. These were compared to another group consisting of 30 patients (group B) undergoing surgery for the same disease between 2004 and 2009 again in our institution. All patients in both series underwent surgical debridement and reconstruction followed by antibiotic therapy for 8-12 weeks. Results: The mean age at presentation increased significantly from 59.7 to 64.5 years. Male predominance was noticed in both groups. Accompanying neurological deficit was almost the same (40-45 %), while septicaemia increased from 15 to 40 %. Radiologically, epidural abscess formation increased from 60 to 80 %. The disease was mostly monosegmental in group A (85 %); while in group B, the disease became significantly more aggressive affecting two and three segments in 43.3 % of the cases. There was an increased tendency toward anterior alone surgery in group B (56.7 %) in comparison to group A (35 %). Mean period of follow-up was 2.8 years. Healing of the inflammation was the rule. Mortality rate increased from 5 to 10 %. Conclusions: Cervical spondylodiscitis has increased and became more aggressive. While radical surgical debridement, stable reconstruction together with antibiotic therapy remained a reliable approach to achieve complete healing of the inflammation, anterior alone surgery became more applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The treatment of spinal infection remains a challenge for spinal surgeons because of the variable presentations and complicated course. The diagnostic and therapeutic value of percutaneous endoscopic lavage and drainage (PELD) has been proved in some recent studies. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of PELD in patients with advanced infectious spondylitis which may traditionally require open surgery. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 21 patients who underwent PELD to treat their advanced lumbar infectious spondylitis. Patients with severe infection resulting in significant neurological deficit and mechanical instability were excluded from the PELD procedure, which was only used on selected patients with less severe disease. The 21 patients were categorized into three groups based on their past history, clinical presentation, and imaging studies: those with paraspinal abscesses, postoperative recurrent infection, and multilevel infection. Clinical outcomes were assessed by careful physical examination, Odom's criteria, regular serologic testing, and imaging studies to determine whether continued conservative treatment or surgical intervention was necessary. Results: Causative bacteria were identified in 19 (90.5 %) of 21 biopsy specimens. Appropriate parenteral antibiotics for the predominant pathogen isolated from the infected tissue biopsy cultures were prescribed for the patients. All patients reported satisfactory recovery and relief of back pain, except three with multilevel infections who underwent anterior debridement and fusion within 2 weeks after treatment with PELD. The overall infection control rate was 86 %. One patient with epidural abscess and spondylolytic spondylolisthesis of the L5-S1 received instrumented fusion surgery due to mechanical instability 5 months later. No surgery-related major complications were found, except 2 patients who had transient paraesthesia in the affected lumbar segment. Conclusions: PELD was successful in obtaining a bacteriologic diagnosis, relieving the patient's symptoms, and assisting in eradication of lumbar infectious spondylitis. The indications of this minimally invasive procedure could be extended to treat patients suffering from spinal infections with paraspinal abscesses and postoperative recurrent infection. Patients with multilevel infection may have trivial benefits from PELD due to poor infection control and mechanical instability of the affected segments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Haematological markers currently used to investigate TB spine vary from WCC, Anaemia, ESR and CRP. Platelet count in TB spine as a marker has been inadequately investigated. Method: In this retrospective review, Platelet count in TB spondylitis on admission was compared to patients undergoing other elective spinal surgery (control) preoperatively. Comparisons of the platelets with ESR and the effect of HIV on platelet count in TB spine were also evaluated. Results: 160 TB spine patients showed statistically significant higher platelet count when compared to 210 patients in the control group ( p < 0.001). 52.5 % patients had a raised platelet count in the TB spondylitis group. Raised Platelet count had a sensitivity and specificity of 52.5 % and 86.2 %, respectively in TB spondylitis. ESR and platelet count had a Pearson correlation r = 0.31 ( p < 0.001). HIV however did not statistically show any difference in the platelet count ( p = 0.12). Conclusion: A raised platelet count in spinal pathology may be used as an inflammatory marker of TB spondylitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Spinal infection is a rare pathology although a concerning rising incidence has been observed in recent years. This increase might reflect a progressively more susceptible population but also the availability of increased diagnostic accuracy. Yet, even with improved diagnosis tools and procedures, the delay in diagnosis remains an important issue. This review aims to highlight the importance of a methodological attitude towards accurate and prompt diagnosis using an algorithm to aid on spinal infection management. Methods: Appropriate literature on spinal infection was selected using databases from the US National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health. Results: Literature reveals that histopathological analysis of infected tissues is a paramount for diagnosis and must be performed routinely. Antibiotic therapy is transversal to both conservative and surgical approaches and must be initiated after etiological diagnosis. Indications for surgical treatment include neurological deficits or sepsis, spine instability and/or deformity, presence of epidural abscess and upon failure of conservative treatment. Conclusions: A methodological assessment could lead to diagnosis effectiveness of spinal infection. Towards this, we present a management algorithm based on literature findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tuberculous spondylitis (TBS) is the most common form of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. The mainstay of TBS management is anti-tuberculous chemotherapy. Most of the patients with TBS are treated conservatively; however in some patients surgery is indicated. Most common indications for surgery include neurological deficit, deformity, instability, large abscesses and necrotic tissue mass or inadequate response to anti-tuberculous chemotherapy. The most common form of TBS involves a single motion segment of spine (two adjoining vertebrae and their intervening disc). Sometimes TBS involves more than two adjoining vertebrae, when it is called multilevel TBS. Indications for correct surgical management of multilevel TBS is not clear from literature. Materials and methods: We have retrospectively reviewed 87 patients operated in 10 years for multilevel TBS involving the thoracolumbar spine at our spine unit. Two types of surgeries were performed on these patients. In 57 patients, modified Hong Kong operation was performed with radical debridement, strut grafting and anterior instrumentation. In 30 patients this operation was combined with pedicle screw fixation with or without correction of kyphosis by osteotomy. Patients were followed up for correction of kyphosis, improvement in neurological deficit, pain and function. Complications were noted. On long-term follow-up (average 64 months), there was 9.34 % improvement in kyphosis angle in the modified Hong Kong group and 47.58 % improvement in the group with pedicle screw fixation and osteotomy in addition to anterior surgery ( p < 0.001). Seven patients had implant failures and revision surgeries in the modified Hong Kong group. Neurological improvement, pain relief and functional outcome were the same in both groups. Conclusion: We conclude that pedicle screw fixation with or without a correcting osteotomy should be added in all patients with multilevel thoracolumbar tuberculous spondylitis undergoing radical debridement and anterior column reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tuberculosis of the spine is a still a common disease entity, not only in developing countries but is also returning in developed countries especially in the immune-compromised patients. Conservative treatment with chemotherapy is still the main stay of treatment. This article focuses on the clinical and radiological outcomes, and problems with conservative treatment. Method: The available literature of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy in managing spinal tuberculosis was reviewed. Data sources included relevant literature of the English language identified through Medline search from 1946 to 2011. Personal experience and unpublished reviews from the authors' institution were also included. Results: Although majority of patients respond well to anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy, about 15 % of them develop paradoxical response. The Medical Research Council (MRC) studies have shown that for patients without significant neurological deficits, operative and conservative treatment could produce the same clinical outcome at 15 years follow-up. Patients treated operatively with debridement and spinal fusion with strut graft had faster bony fusion and less kyphotic deformity. In contrast, those treated with drugs alone or with simple debridement without fusion may result in disease reactivation, severe kyphosis or late instability, which in turn may lead to late-onset Pott's paraplegia, back pain, sagittal imbalance and compromised pulmonary function that are difficult or risky to treat. Conclusion: Recognition of the clinical and radiologic features of these late sequels is important for the management. Prevention of deformity in the early disease has been added to the modern standard of treatment of TB spine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intraobserver and interobserver reliabilities of the several different methods to measure lumbar lordosis have been reported. However, it has not been studied sofar in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Materials and methods: We evaluated the inter and intraobserver reliabilities of six specific measures of global lumbar lordosis in patients with AS. Ninety-one consecutive patients with AS who met the most recently modified New York criteria were enrolled and underwent anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of whole spine. The radiographs were divided into non-ankylosis (no bony bridge in the lumbar spine), incomplete ankylosis (lumbar spines were partially connected by bony bridge) and complete ankylosis groups to evaluate the reliability of the Cobb L1-S1, Cobb L1-L5, centroid, posterior tangent L1-S1, posterior tangent L1-L5, and TRALL methods. Results: The radiographs were composed of 39 non-ankylosis, 27 incomplete ankylosis and 25 complete ankylosis. Intra- and inter-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) of all six methods were generally high. The ICCs were all ≥0.77 (excellent) for the six radiographic methods in the combined group. However, a comparison of the ICCs, 95 % confidence intervals and mean absolute difference (MAD) between groups with varying degrees of ankylosis showed that the reliability of the lordosis measurements decreased in proportion to the severity of ankylosis. The Cobb L1-S1, Cobb L1-L5 and posterior tangent L1-S1 method demonstrated higher ICCs for both inter and intraobserver comparisons and the other methods showed lower ICCs in all groups. The intraobserver MAD was similar in the Cobb L1-S1 and Cobb L1-L5 (2.7°-4.3°), but the other methods showed higher intraobserver MAD. Interobserver MAD of Cobb L1-L5 only showed low in all group. Conclusion: These results are the first to provide a reliability analysis of different global lumbar lordosis measurement methods in AS. The findings in this study demonstrated that the Cobb L1-L5 method is reliable for measuring the global lumbar lordosis in AS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: With progression of cervicothoracic kyphosis (CTK), ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients suffer functional disability. Surgical correction still poses neurologic risks, while evidence of an ideal technique preventing its complications is weak. Materials and methods: We report our results with non-instrumented correction in perspective of a review of literature, serving as an important historical control. Database review identified 18 AS patients with CTK correction. After application of a Halo-Thoracic-Cast (HTC) patients underwent posterior non-instrumented open-wedge osteotomy at C7/T1 and osteotomy closure by threaded HTC-rod adjustments. Postoperative gradual HTC correction was continued for 2-4 weeks. Patients were invited for follow-up and medical charts were reviewed for demographics, surgical details, complications and outcomes. The patients' preoperative, postoperative, before HTC removal and follow-up photographs were analyzed for the Chin-Brow-Vertical-Angle (CBVA), radiographs for the CTK angle. Results: Patients' age was 50 ± 11 years, follow-up was 37 ± 47 months and CBVA correction was 25° ± 9° ( p < 0.000001). The final radiographic correction at follow-up was 20° ± 11° ( p = 0.00002). At the latest follow-up, three patients judged their outcome as excellent, nine good, three moderate and one poor. Upon invitation, seven patients appeared with follow-up averaging 87 months. Neck-pain disability index was 8 ± 14 %. Two patients died, three were lost, one had revision elsewhere and five just had a routine follow-up. Six patients sustained a minor and ten a major complication. Revisions were indicated in five patients including infection, C8-radiculopathy and neurologic events by translation at the osteotomy. A total of 44 % of patients showed translation at the osteotomy indicating acute surgery with instrumentation twice after osteotomy closure, three patients had a revision posterior decompression and instrumented fusion for sequels related to translation. Conclusion: With the non-instrumented HTC-based technique, average CBVA correction of 25° was achieved and all patients were ambulatory at follow-up. However, regarding translation at the osteotomy, loss of correction, morbidity of the HTC and lack of control at the osteotomy instrumentation-based correction and instrumented fusion seem to be preferable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Erysipelas is an animal disease caused by Gram-positive bacteria Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. Among the domestic animals, domestic pig ( Sus scrofa f. domestica) suffers most frequently from the disease in human environment. This is a typical animal-borne disease observed mainly in occupational groups employed in agriculture, farming (of animals and birds), fishing and manufacturing industry. Methods: We are presenting the clinical course of infection ( E. rhusiopathiae) and discuss clinical forms. E. rhusiopathiae in humans may have the following clinical course: mild form of skin infection diagnosed as local erythema (erysipeloid), disseminated form of skin infection and the most serious form of infection of systemic course (endocarditis and sepsis). Mild skin infection and local erythema are the most common forms. Very rare case of animal-borne infection course has been presented in which after initial phase the disease was generalised to the abscesses formation in paravertebral space, spondylitis and empyema formation in spinal canal. In the presented clinical case, the patient was suffering from diabetes. It was probably an additional risk factor of the disease generalisation. Patient underwent drainage of empyema in spinal canal, after which his neurological status gradually improved. Antibiotic therapy was implemented and continued for 8 weeks. Such course of erysipelas was not previously described in the literature. Results: After therapy neurological status was improved. In follow MRI control exam empyema and spondylitis was successfully eliminated. Conclusions: Various complications of the disease, such as endocarditis and heart valves disturbances, are well known and are the most severe complications of the generalised infection. Proper targeted and long-term antibiotic therapy is crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Nowadays, endoscopic techniques are widely used in surgical procedures. Retroperitoneoscopy has been an extremely valuable tool for a wide variety of urologic disorders, whereas, it has limited use in orthopedic procedures. Methods: We performed retroperitoneoscopic drainage (in combination with medical treatment) of complicated psoas abscess on 12 patients with tuberculous spondylitis. All the procedures were done under general anesthesia and in the lateral decubitus position. Psoas abscess was evacuated during procedure, and postoperatively, drainage was continued through a large silastic tube. The definitive diagnosis and the treatment were made based on the results of culture-antibiogram and PCR testing. Results: Complete clinical and radiologic remission was observed in all patients in 3-6 months. The complication was not observed in any case postoperatively. Conclusions: Retroperitoneoscopic drainage of psoas abscesses gains advantages in terms of rapid recovery, minimal invasiveness, absence of radiation, and shorter hospital stay. This procedure can be used not only for cold abscesses but also for other pathologies of lumbar vertebral area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of infectious spondylitis in hemodialysis patients remains a challenge because of comorbidities. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on the clinical manifestations and surgical outcomes of patients with spinal infection. Sixteen patients who underwent surgical intervention were included. There were 3 thoracic and 13 lumbar lesions. All patients presented with intractable back pain at the start of treatment. Six patients had a fever, nine had inflammation at the hemodialysis access site, and six of them had concomitant bacteremia. Ten patients had an elevated leukocyte count. Serological tests indicated an elevation of the C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate level in all patients. Five patients had a neurological compromise. Postoperative complications included two mortalities, two iliac bone graft and implant dislodgement, and one retroperitoneal wound dehiscence. The preoperative mean visual analog scale score was 7.7 (range, 6-9), which improved to 3.4 (range, 2-5) at the final follow-up for 14 surviving patients. Neurological improvement was obtained by at least one grade in four Frankel C category patients. The radiographs revealed a good bony fusion in 12 cases although with a variable bone graft subsidence. In conclusion, early diagnosis of infectious spondylitis is difficult due to latent symptoms. A spine infection should be suspected in hemodialysis patients with severe back pain, even when they are afebrile. Surgical intervention for infectious spondylitis in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis can be performed with acceptable outcomes; however, the complication and mortality rates are relative high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We retrospectively studied the cases with tuberculous spondylitis of thoracolumbar region with two or more levels of involvement that underwent posterior instrumentation and fusion and anterior fusion with titanium mesh following anterior decompression using simultaneous successive posterior-anterior-posterior surgery. Among all patients with tuberculous spondylitis accompanied by medium or severe kyphosis, 20 patients who underwent simultaneous successive decompression, fusion and instrumentation with posterior-anterior-posterior surgery between 1999 and 2004 were included in the study. Patients were evaluated for fusion formation and neurological and functional status. Kyphosis angles were measured at early and long-term follow-up. Antituberculosis chemotherapy was initiated in all patients and continued for 9 months; initially as quadruple therapy for 3 months, and then as triple therapy. Average follow-up period was 52.7 months (range 37-94). Solid fusion was achieved in all patients. All patients returned to their previous occupation; 75% (15 subjects) with mild pain or no pain and 15% (3 subjects) with major limitations. There were 11 patients with neurological deficit, 9 of these achieved complete neurological recoveries. Regarding kyphosis angle, an average 35.1° correction (84.8%) was obtained in postoperative period ( p < 0.001) and there was no significant correction loss during the follow-up period ( p < 0.05). There were no grafts or instrumentation-related stabilization problems. In subjects with tuberculous spondylitis with involvements at two or more levels accompanied by medium and severe kyphosis, decompression, fusion and instrumentation by simultaneous successive posterior-anterior-posterior surgery is an effective and safe management method for effective kyphosis correction with high fusion rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship of Modic change to pain and inflammation remains to be unclear. Recently, some authors have reported that Modic type 1 signals are closely related to infection. However, if the patients do not have severe back pain, fever, or an abnormal blood profile, it is difficult to distinguish between common Modic change and infection. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of pyogenic spondylitis in patients who showed Modic type 1 change without other signs of infection. Seventy-one patients with Modic type 1 change were evaluated (average age 55, 32 males and 39 females). X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed to investigate low-back pain and leg pain. Body temperature was measured and blood analysis (including white blood cell count and level of C-reactive protein) was conducted for all patents. All 71 patients with Modic type 1 change, but without other signs of infection were followed for 2 years. Low-back pain, X-ray, and blood analyses were performed every 3 months; and MRI was performed every year. Severe low-back pain or abnormal signs developed in four patients during the follow-up. Pyogenic spondylitis was diagnosed in three patients by symptoms, blood results, and imaging, and confirmed by biopsy. Two of the three patients were diabetic. A total of 4.2% of patients with Modic type 1 change, but without other signs of infection were diagnosed as having pyogenic spondylitis during the 2-year follow-up, therefore, it is important to consider this before treating Modic type 1 change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surgical management of cervical spondylodiscitis consists of the resection of the affected disc, the decompression of the cervical spinal cord, followed by the stabilization using an autologous bone graft or a titanium implant combined with a ventral plate fixation. Until now, there were no studies about the practicability and putative safety of PEEK cages in cervical spine infection. Now, we present the history of five patients suffering from neurological deficits and septicemia caused by mono- or bisegmental pyogenic cervical discitis and intraspinal abscess without severe bone destruction. Patients were treated surgically by discectomy, decompression, and ventral spondylodesis. The disc was replaced by a PEEK cage without additional fixation. Progressive bony fusion and complete regression of the inflammatory changes was demonstrated 7–8 months later by a computer assisted tomography and contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, respectively. The vertebral alignment changed minimally; the cages developed only a slight average subsidence. The clinical symptoms improved in all patients significantly. Neck pain or instability was never observed. Nevertheless, prospective investigations of a larger patient series are mandatory. We suppose that the use of PEEK cages represents a potential and safe alternative in the treatment of cervical spondylodiscitis in selected patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retrospective study on the results of microendoscopic decompression surgery for the treatment of cervical myelopathy. The purpose of this study was to describe the microendoscopic laminoplasty (MEL) technique as the surgical method in the treatment of cervical myelopathy, and to document the clinical outcomes for MEL surgery. Endoscopic surgery poses several challenges for the aspiring endoscopic surgeons, the most critical of which is mastering hand–eye coordination. With training in live animal and cadaver surgery, the technical progress has reduced the problem of morbidity following surgery. The authors have performed microendoscopic decompression surgery on more than 2,000 patients for lumbar spinal canal stenosis. Fifty-one patients underwent the posterior decompression surgery using microendoscopy for cervical myelopathy at authors’ institute. The average age was 62.9 years. The criteria for exclusion were cervical myelopathy with tumor, trauma, severe ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament, rheumatoid arthritis, pyogenic spondylitises, destructive spondylo-arthropathies, and other combined spinal lesions. The items evaluated were neurological evaluation, recovery rates; these were calculated following examination using the Hirabayashi’s method with the criteria proposed by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association scoring system (JOA score). The mean follow-up period was 20.3 months. The average of JOA score was 10.1 points at the initial examination and 13.6 points at the final follow-up. The average recovery rate was 52.5%. The recovery rate according to surgical levels was, respectively, 56.5% in one level, 46.3% in two levels and 54.1% in more than three levels. The complications were as follows: one patient sustained a pin-hole-like dura mater injury inflicted by a high-speed air-drill during surgery, one patient developed an epidural hematoma 3 days after surgery, and two patients had the C5 nerve root palsy after surgery. The epidural hematoma was removed by the microendoscopy. All two C5 palsy improved with conservative therapy, such as a neck collar. These four patients on complications have returned to work at the final follow-up. This observation suggests that the clinical outcomes of microendoscopic surgery for cervical myelopathy were excellent or showed good results. This minimally invasive technique would be helpful in choosing a surgical method for cervical myelopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgery in late stage ankylosing spondylitis (AS) most often tends to correct the sagittal balance with an extension osteotomy of the spine. In the literature, extension osteotomy was first described as an open wedge osteotomy but recently closed wedge osteotomy resecting the pedicles and posterior elements have become more popular. Only a limited number of cases have been reported in the literature and with limited focus on outcome of this major surgery. In this study, we reported the results of a large series of extension osteotomy in a population of patients with AS focusing on the technical aspects, complication rates, correction obtained and outcome evaluation using newer spine outcome measuring instruments. In the period from 1995 to 2005, 36 consecutive patients fulfilled the criteria where the files, radiographs and patients were available for further studies. The following data were recorded: Age, sex, comorbidity, indication, operation time and blood loss, level of osteotomy and estimated Correction. Furthermore, perioperative complications and all late complications were registered. The average follow-up was 50 months (3–128). Twenty-one patients also filled out questionnaires (SF36 and Oswestry Disability Index) preoperatively. At the end of the period all patients were contacted and filled out the same questionnaires. Fifteen of the patients had two pedicular resection osteotomies performed, 21 had one, and two had polysegmental osteotomies. Mean operation time was 180 min, bleeding was mean 2,450 ml, stay at the hospital was 13 days. One patient had partial paresis of the lower extremities all other complications were minor. The median correction was 45°. The median Oswestry score improved significantly from 54 (range 20–94) preoperatively to 38 (range 2–94) postoperatively. The SF-36 score significantly increased, when evaluated on the major components Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS). The thoracolumbar closed wedge pedicular resection osteotomy used in this series was a safe method for correction of incapacitating kyphosis in AS. There was an acceptable rate of perioperative complications and no mortality. The correction obtained was in average 45°. All of the patients except one maintained their good correction and restored function. Outcome analysis showed a significant improvement in SF-36 and Oswestry Disability Index, and the mental component of the SF-36 showed improvement to values near the normative population. It is concluded that corrective osteotomy of the thoracolumbar spine in AS is an effective and safe treatment with improvements in quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a radiographic study of ankylosing spondylitis patients with severe fixed kyphotic deformity who underwent pedicle subtraction osteotomy. Our goal was to measure and validate new angle to assess global kyphosis and to evaluate the radiological outcomes after surgery. This is the first report which describes new angle to assess global kyphosis (T1-S1). Pre and postoperative controls were compared according to the Pelvic Incidence. The sagittal parameters ankylosing spondylitis patients were compared with 154 asymptomatic patients. In addition to the pelvic parameters and the C7 tilt, we used the spino-sacral angle. Pelvic incidence in ankylosing spondylitis patients was higher than asymptomatic population (61 vs. 51°). For a same tilt of C7 for both groups, the low pelvic incidence group had a lower sacral slope and pelvic tilt and a higher global kyphosis (spino-sacral angle = 90°) than the high pelvic incidence group (spino-sacral angle = 98°). In the adult volunteers, the C7 tilt and spino-sacral angle measured, respectively, 95 and 135°. The preoperative C7 tilt measured 73° and increased to 83° ( p = 0.0025). The preoperative spino-sacral angle measured 96° and increased to 113.3° ( p = 0.003). A low pelvic incidence pelvis has a lower sacral slope than in high pelvic incidence and can support a bigger kyphosis. All the parameters were improved by the pedicle subtraction osteotomy, but the average spino-sacral angle remained lower than the control group. When C7 tilt was useful to assess the improvement of the balance, SSA allowed a better evaluation of the correction of kyphosis itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to analyse the presentation, aetiology, conservative management, and outcome of non-tuberculous pyogenic spinal infection in adults. We performed a retrospective review of 56 patients (35 women and 21 men) of pyogenic spinal infection presenting over a 7-year period (1999–2006) to the Department of Spinal Surgery of Hesperia Hospital. The medical records, radiologic imaging, bacteriology results, treatment, and complications of all patients were reviewed. The mean age at presentation was 47.8 years (age range 35–72 years), the mean follow-up duration was 12.5 months. The most common site of infection was lumbar spine ( n: 48), followed by the thoracic spine ( n: 8). Most patients were symptomatic for between 4 and 10 weeks before presenting to hospital. The frequently isolated pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus in 31 of 56 cases (57.6%). Percutaneous biopsies were diagnostic in 57% of patients; the open biopsy was indicated if closed biopsy failed and when the infection was not accessible by percutaneous technique. The patients were managed by conservative measures alone, including antibiotic therapy and spinal bracing. The mean period of antibiotic therapy was 8.5 weeks (range 6–9 weeks), followed by oral antibiotics for 6 weeks. All patients had a supportive spinal brace for mean 8 weeks (range 6–10 weeks). The duration of the administration of oral antibiotics was dependent on clinical and laboratory evidence (white cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein) that the infection was resolved. The follow-up MR gadolinium scans were essential to monitor the response to medical treatment. The diagnosis of pyogenic spinal infection should be considered in any patient presenting with severe localised unremitting back and neck pain, especially when accompanied with systemic features, such as fever and weight loss and in the presence of elevated inflammatory markers. The conservative management of infection with antibiotic therapy and spinal bracing was very successful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome has been well clarified, after Chamot et al. suggested this peculiar disorder in 1987. The most commonly affected site in SAPHO syndrome is the anterior chest, followed by the spine. However, the clinical course and taxonomic concept of SAPHO spinal lesions are poorly understood. This study was performed to analyze: (1) the detailed clinical course of spinal lesions in SAPHO syndrome, and (2) the relationship between SAPHO syndrome with spinal lesions and seronegative spondyloarthropathy. Thirteen patients with spondylitis in SAPHO syndrome were analyzed. The features of spinal lesions were a chronic onset with a slight inflammatory reaction, and slowly progressing non-marginal syndesmophytes at multi spinal levels, besides the coexistence of specific skin lesions. SAPHO syndrome, especially spinal lesions related to palmoplantar pustulosis, can be recognized as a subtype of seronegative spondyloarthropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors present two cases of synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome with rapidly progressing destructive spondylitis treated surgically. The spinal lesions in SAPHO syndrome generally have a good prognosis and rarely cause the structural destruction or neurological deterioration. Case 1: a 63-year-old female had palmoplantar pustulosis for 2 years. At first, she only felt a pain in the nape with no inducing factor. Two months later, she had incomplete quadriplegia (ASIA scale C). Magnetic resonance imaging showed destruction of C4–C7, kyphotic deformity, and severe compression of the spinal cord. Decompression and reconstruction surgery using anterior and posterior approach improved her paralysis. Case 2: a 69-year-old female complained of persistent back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed spondylitis of T7–T9. Although there were no typical skin lesions, we diagnosed SAPHO syndrome by hyperostosis of the sternocostoclavicular joint and sacral joint. Destruction with kyphotic deformity of the spine progressed gradually for 3 months. Curettage and reconstruction surgery using thoracic endoscope relieved her pain and prevented the destruction of the spine. The histopathology of the specimen obtained surgically showed non-specific inflammation in both cases. Spondylitis in SAPHO syndrome may cause severe destruction and kyphotic deformity followed by paralysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infective spondylitis occurring concomitantly with mycotic aneurysm is rare. A retrospective record review was conducted in all cases of mycotic aneurysm from January 1995 to December 2004, occurring in a primary care and tertiary referral center. Spontaneous infective spondylitis and mycotic aneurysm were found in six cases (10.3% of 58 mycotic aneurysm patients). Neurological deficit (50% vs. 0; P < 0.001) is the significant clinical manifestation in patients with spontaneous infective spondylitis and mycotic aneurysm. The presence of psoas abscess on computed tomography (83.3% vs. 0; P < 0.001) and endplate destruction on radiography (50% vs. 0; P < 0.001) are predominated in patients with spontaneous infective spondylitis and mycotic aneurysm. Of these six patients, four with Salmonella infection received surgical intervention and all survived. Another two patients (one with Streptococcus pyogenes, another with Staphylococcus aureus) received conservative therapy and subsequently died from rupture of aneurysm or septic shock. Paravertebral soft tissue swelling, presence of psoas abscess and/or unclear soft tissue plane between the aorta and vertebral body in relation to mycotic aneurysm may indicate a concomitant infection in the spine. In contrast, if prevertebral mass is found in the survey of spine infection, coexisting mycotic aneurysm should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents abstracts related to adult throacolumbar spine. They include "DOES THE SHAPE OF THE L5 VERTEBRAL BODY DEPENDS ON THE HIGH OF CT SLICES IN THE PEDICLE?: EVALUATION OF THE SHAPE OF THE L5 VERTEBRAL BODY WITH A MULTICUT CT SCAN," "THE EFFECT OF PULSED JET LAVAGE IN VERTEBROPLASTY ON INJECTION FORCES OF PMMA BONE CEMENT, MATERIAL DISTRIBUTION AND POTENTIAL FAT EMBOLISM; A CADAVER STUDY," and "DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF TUBERCULOUS SPONDYLITIS AND PYOGENIC SPONDYLITIS."

Retrospective analysis of the spino-pelvic alignment in a population of 85 patients with a lumbar degenerative disease. Several previous publications reported the analysis of spino-pelvic alignment in the normal and low back pain population. Data suggested that patients with lumbar diseases have variations of sagittal alignment such as less distal lordosis, more proximal lumbar lordosis and a more vertical sacrum. Nevertheless most of these variations have been reported without reference to the pelvis shape which is well-known to strongly influence spino-pelvic alignment. The objective of this study was to analyse spino-pelvic parameters, including pelvis shape, in a population of 85 patients with a lumbar degenerative disease and compare these patients with a control group of normal volunteers. We analysed three different lumbar degenerative diseases: disc herniation (DH), n = 25; degenerative disc disease (DDD), n = 32; degenerative spondylolisthesis (DSPL), n = 28. Spino-pelvic alignment was analysed pre-operatively on full spine radiographs. Spino-pelvic parameters were measured as following: pelvic incidence, sacral slope, pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, spino-sacral angle and positioning of C7 plumb line. For each group of patients the sagittal profile was compared with a control population of 154 asymptomatic adults that was the subject of a previous study. In order to understand variations of spino-pelvic parameters in the patients’ population a stratification (matching) according to the pelvic incidence was done between the control group and each group of patients. Concerning first the pelvis shape, patients with DH and those with DDD demonstrated to have a mean pelvic incidence equal to 49.8° and 51.6°, respectively, versus 52° for the control group (no significant difference). Only young patients, less than 45 years old, with a disc disease (DH or DDD) demonstrated to have a pelvic incidence significantly lower (48.3°) than the control group, P < 0.05. On the contrary, in the DSPL group the pelvic incidence was significantly greater (60°) than the control group (52°), P < 0.0005. Secondly the three groups of patients were characterized by significant variations in spino-pelvic alignment: anterior translation of the C7 plumb line ( P < 0.005 for DH, P < 0.05 for DDD and P < 0.05 for DSPL); loss of lumbar lordosis after matching according to pelvic incidence ( P < 0.0005 for DH, DDD and DSPL); decrease of sacral slope after matching according to pelvic incidence ( P = 0.001 for DH, P < 0.0005 for DDD and P < 0.0005 for DSPL). Measurement of the pelvic incidence and matching according to this parameter between each group of patients and the control group permitted to understand variations of spino-pelvic parameters in a population of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective is to report on the clinical and radiological outcome following a decancellisation closing wedge osteotomy for the correction of fixed cervico-thoracic kyphosis in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. The only treatment available for severe fixed flexion deformity of the cervical spine in these patients is an extension osteotomy. Traditionally an anterior opening, posterior closing wedge osteotomy is performed with or without internal fixation. We describe a decancellisation closing wedge osteotomy of C7 accompanied by secure segmental internal fixation. Eight patients operated between 1990 and 2003 with mean age of 54 years and minimum follow up of 2 years were retrospectively evaluated. Restoration of normal forward gaze was achieved in all patients. No patient suffered spinal cord injury or permanent nerve root palsy. There was no loss of correction or pseudarthrosis at final follow up. C7 decancellisation closing wedge osteotomy supplemented with secure segmental internal fixation in experienced hands provides a safe and effective treatment for fixed cervico-thoracic kyphosis in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical spine spondylodiscitis is a rare, but serious manifestation of spinal infection. We present a retrospective study of 20 consecutive patients between 01/1994 and 12/1999 treated because of cervical spondylodiscitis. Mean age at the time of treatment was 59.7 (range 34-81) years, nine of them female. In all cases, diagnosis had been established with a delay. All patients in this series underwent surgery such as radical debridement, decompression if necessary, autologous bone grafting and instrumentation. Surgery was indicated if a neurological deficit, symptoms of sepsis, epidural abscess formation with consecutive stenosis, instability or severe deformity were present. Postoperative antibiotic therapy was carried out for 8-12 weeks. Follow-up examinations were performed a mean of 37 (range 24-63) months after surgery. Healing of the inflammation was confirmed in all cases by laboratory, clinical and radiological parameters. Spondylodesis was controlled radiologically and could be achieved in all cases. One case showed a 15°kyphotic angle in the proximal adjacent segment. Spontaneous bony bridging of the proximal adjacent segment was observed in one patient. In the other cases the adjacent segments radiologically showed neither fusion nor infection related changes. Preoperative neurological deficits improved in all cases. Residual neurological deficits persisted in three of eight cases. The results indicate that spondylodiscitis in cervical spine should be treated early and aggressive to avoid local and systemic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pullout of the cranial end-vertebra screw following the correction of a scoliosis with the VDS implant is a common complication. Very little is known about the forces acting on the screws during ventral derotation spondylodesis (VDS) in ventral scoliosis surgery. These forces determine the risk of screw-loosening. The purpose of this study was to identify implant properties and to determine surgical correction strategies that reduce the risk of cranial end-vertebra screw pullout. For this aim, a three-dimensional nonlinear finite element model of a scoliotic thoracic spine was created with a Cobb angle of 61° and 32° rotation. The VDS implant was inserted between T5 and T9. The longitudinal rod diameter, the implant material and seven surgical correction strategies were examined to determine their influence on the Cobb angle as well as on derotation and on axial and transverse forces in the screws. A stiffer implant achieves a better correction but causes higher axial and transverse screw forces. Axial tensile forces act on the screws fixed to the cranial end vertebra and the middle vertebra, while axial compressive forces act on the other screws. A strong correction at the cranial segment leads to high axial and transverse screw forces in the farthest cranial screw and thus to a high risk of screw pullout. The resultant transverse force is often much higher than the axial force component. Simulation of local trunk muscle forces has only a minor effect on the results. The axial tensile forces and thus the risk of screw pullout are highest at the cranial end vertebra. A strategy in which surgical correction is strong in the middle segments and moderate in the outer ones leads to a good reduction of the Cobb angle, a wide derotation angle, and relatively low axial tensile forces at the cranial end vertebra screw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Spondylitis is a rare complication of vertebroplasty with only one case report having been published to date. We report a further case of spondylitis after vertebroplasty that was managed successfully with conservative therapy. Methods: The clinical course of a 55-year-old patient with secondary osteoporosis due to liver cirrhosis from alcohol abuse is reported, in whom percutaneous vertebroplasty of three fractured vertebral bodies (L3–L5) was complicated by spondylitis at these levels. Results: Spondylitis of L3–L5 with paravertebral abscess formation and progressive collapse of L5 was detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment consisted of percutaneous aspiration of the paravertebral abscess and antibiotic therapy. No bacteria was identified despite cultures have been taken before antibiotic treatment. The patient was treated with intravenous ciprofloxacin and consecutive clindamycin for a total of 3 months. One year after the infection the MRI signs of spondylitis have resolved without further collapse of L5. Painlevels have improved significantly, allowing the patient to return to work, but are still higher than immediately after vertebroplasty. Conclusion: Spondylitis is a rare complication of vertebroplasty. In the presented case a satisfactory result could be achieved through conservative antibiotic therapy and restriction of movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case of an isolated lesion of the thoracic spine attributed to SAPHO syndrome is presented. A 51-year-old man was referred for inflammatory pain in the thoracic spine. The general examination was normal (especially cutaneous and rheumatologic examinations). Laboratory analysis showed only a mild inflammatory reaction. Standard radiographs showed partial condensation of T8. Computed tomography showed osteolysis of the anterior corner of T8, and MRI revealed an abnormal signal of T8, with enlargement of the prevertebral soft tissue. Percutaneous and thoracoscopic biopsies showed a nonspecific inflammatory process, and cultures were sterile. Initially, several diagnoses were advanced: infectious spondylitis, malignant tumor, lymphomas, Paget disease, seronegative spondyloarthropathies and finally atypical SAPHO syndrome. Three months later, the patient experienced more pain. General examination was still normal. The radiological findings worsened, while the inflammatory blood tests were normal. A new thoracoscopic biopsy revealed a nonspecific inflammatory process. A diagnosis of SAPHO syndrome was made, despite the lack of typical lesions. Dramatically improving with anti-inflammatory therapy, the patient’s condition was favorable at 3-year follow-up. This atypical presentation of an isolated lesion in the spine makes the diagnosis of a SAPHO syndrome difficult but possible. Spine surgeons must be aware of this rare entity, to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary repeated surgical biopsies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recommended surgical options for postoperative wound infections after instrumented spine surgery include a wide debridement and irrigation with antibiotics. In most cases, implant removal is not recommended for a solid fusion. However, there are few reports on the treatment choices for persistent postoperative wound infections following a posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) using cages. This paper reviewed ten patients referred to our department, who underwent revision surgery for a postoperative, deep infection after a PLIF with cages. The surgery included an anterior radical debridement and interbody fusion with removal of all implants. The clinical and laboratory results, including a bacteriologic study for the causative organism and the radiological changes, were analyzed. All patients complained of persistent severe back pain after the primary surgery. MRSA was the main organism found in these patients (five cases). Complete bony fusion was obtained in nine patients (90%). In one patient, back pain and radiating pain prevented him from returning to his original work. Despite the anterior interbody fusion with an autogenous iliac bone graft, all cases had a complete collapse of the intervertebral disc space, without a dislodgement or collapse of the graft bone. The mean loss of the height and lordosis in the involved segment was 12.7 mm (range 4–46 mm) and 5.6° (range 0–15°), respectively. Anterior radical debridement with the removal of all implants would be an effective way to manage patients with postoperative spondylitis after a PLIF using cages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conventional procedure in the treatment of vertebral tuberculosis is drainage of the abscess, curettage of the devitalized vertebra and application of an antituberculous chemotherapy regimen. Posterior instrumentation results are encouraging in the prevention or treatment of late kyphosis; however, a second-stage operation is needed. Recently, posterolateral or transpedicular drainage without anterior drainage or posterior instrumentation following anterior drainage in the same session has become the preferred treatment, in order that kyphotic deformity can be avoided. Information on the use of anterior instrumentation along with radical debridement and fusion is scarce. This study reports on the surgical results of 63 patients with Pott's disease who underwent anterior radical debridement with anterior fusion and anterior instrumentation (23 patients with Z-plate and 40 patients with CDH system). Average age at the time of operation was 46.8±13.4 years. Average duration of follow-up was 50.9±12.9 months. Local kyphosis was measured preoperatively, postoperatively and at the last follow-up visit as the angle between the upper and lower end plates of the collapsed vertebrae. Vertebral collapse, destruction, cold abscess, and canal compromise were assessed on magnetic resonance (MR) images. It was observed that the addition of anterior instrumentation increased the rate of correction of the kyphotic deformity (79.7±20.1%), and was effective in maintaining it, with an average loss of 1.1°±1.7°. Of the 25 patients (39.7%) with neurological symptoms, 20 (80%) had full and 4 (16%) partial recoveries. There were very few intraoperative and postoperative complications (major vessel complication: 3.2%; secondary non-specific infection: 3.2%). Disease reactivation was not seen with the employment of an aggressive chemotherapy regimen. It was concluded that anterior instrumentation is a safe and effective method in the treatment of tuberculosis spondylitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to identify the distinguishing features of brucellosis on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI examinations were performed in 14 patients with spinal brucellosis. A 1-T Magnetom (Erlangen, Siemens) was used to obtain T1-weighted (TR/TE 500/30) and T2-weighted (TR/TE 2000/80/20) spin echo sequences, in both sagittal and axial planes. Thirty-three percent of the vertebrae and 18 levels of disc were involved in the 14 brucellar spondylitis cases. Eleven patients (79.8%) with discitis revealed anterior superior vertebral body involvement. Fourteen (77.7%) of the levels with discitis displayed soft tissue swelling without presence of abscess formation. Seven facet joints of five patients with discitis displayed signal increase after contrast enhancement. Vertebral body signal changes without morphologic changes marked signal increase in the intervertebral disc on T2-weighted and contrast-enhanced sequences, and soft tissue involvement without abscess formation can be accepted as specific MRI features of brucellar spondylitis. The facet joint signal changes following contrast enhancement is another MRI sign of spinal brucellosis, which has not been mentioned so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to evaluate the ability of β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) in granular form to achieve dorsal spondylodesis in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Twenty-eight patients underwent surgical correction and were followed up for 13±8 (range 6–33) months. Posterolateral grafting was performed, using either autograft bone mixed with allograft bone (n=19; "bone group") or autograft bone mixed with 25 g TCP (n=9; "TCP group"). Patients were followed by clinical examination, X-rays and computed tomographic (CT) scans to measure bone mineral density. Fusion involved 12±1 (range 10–14) vertebrae. The segments were fused after 6±1 months in both groups according to the radiographs. No pseudarthrosis was observed. Bone mineral density was 430±111 (range 273–629) mg/cm3 in the TCP group versus 337±134 (range 130–669) mg/cm3 in the bone group. Resorption of TCP was complete on the radiographs after 8±2 (range 6–10) months. Based upon the results of this small preliminary study, the use of TCP appears to be a valuable alternative to allografts for application in the spine, even when large amounts of bone are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four cases of aspergillus spondylodiscitis were treated with operative debridement and fusion. In this rarely encountered mycotic infection of the spine in immunocompromised patients rapid destruction of the intervertebral disc and vertebral bodies can occur. In advanced cases antimycotic drug therapy is thought to be ineffective and a forcing indication for surgery exists when the destruction is progressive and spinal cord compression is imminent or manifest. Spinal instrumentation can be of help in maintaining or restoring spinal stability and maintaining spinal alignment. In our four patients the aspergillus spondylodiscitis was successfully eradicated and fusion achieved. In two of three patients with a neurologic deficit, this deficit disappeared. Two patients died within 6 months after the operative treatment, due to complications related to the underlying illness. One patient was left with a subtotal paraplegia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteotomy in lateral position for correcting severe thoracolumbar kyphosis combined with hip flexion contracture in ankylosing spondylitis: a case report and literature review. Osteotomy in lateral position for correcting severe thoracolumbar kyphosis combined with hip flexion contracture in ankylosing spondylitis: a case report and literature review. [Extracted from the article]