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A 67-year-old man who had been pinned between a basket crane and a tree complained of severe pain in his lower back and a decreased appetite. Laparotomy after decompressing the gastrointestinal tract revealed incarceration of an ileal loop within a fractured third lumbar vertebra. The damaged bowel was resected, and an end-to-end anastomosis was performed. Once the patient’s condition had stabilised, posterior lumbar fixation was performed. There were no abdominal complications or lower limb neurological deficits during the follow-up period. Enhanced CT and MRI had been helpful in making the diagnoses. Histopathological examination revealed the aetiology of the traumatic incarceration: the intestine had been pinched as the disc space closed, and the body attempted to return to its original state by exerting countertraction.

Most children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) develop spinal deformity, which may require surgical intervention. In addition to poor bone stock, vertebral body shape may hinder the placement of spinal implants resulting in complications and poor outcome. The aim of this study was to analyze whether vertebral body morphology of children and adolescents with SMA is altered in comparison to healthy age-matched controls.In this prospective cohort study, 17 children with SMA (mean age 8.7 ±1.0 years) and 13 adolescents with SMA (mean age 13.6 ±1.4 years), all with some degree of neuromuscular scoliosis, were analyzed by standardized radiographic measurements to evaluate vertebral body height and depth. Results were compared with age-matched healthy controls (n = 10 children; mean age 9.1 ± 1.6 years; n = 20 adolescents, mean age 13.1 ± 0.5 years). Computed tomography scans of 27 adolescents with SMA (13.5 ±1.2 years) and 25 healthy age-matched controls (13.8 ±2.0 years) were analyzed to define pedicle diameters.All children and adolescents with SMA had decreased vertebral height and depth in comparison to age-matched healthy controls. In adolescents, reduced depth was more pronounced than height in the thoracic spine. Pedicle size was significantly reduced in the lower thoracic and lumbar area.Reduced vertebral body height and depth and pedicle size in children and adolescents with SMA may influence surgical treatment of spinal deformity. Surgeons should be aware of anatomical differences and choose implant devices accordingly.

With the innovation and development of cervical spine surgical procedures, there is currently a lack of new and reliable data on cervical anatomical landmarks. The purpose of this study is to measure the CT data of the cervical vertebrae of healthy volunteers, so as to make up for the missing part of the measured value of cervical vertebra bone markers, and provide data support for the safety and accuracy of anterior controllable antedisplacement and fusion (ACAF) surgery.From January 2019 to January 2020, the cervical computed tomography (CT) scan image data of volunteers in Changhai Hospital and Zhabei Hospital were randomly selected. The radiological parameters included three parameters were measured in the upper lamina plane. a: the distance from the anterior edge of the vertebral body to the anterior edge of the bilateral uncinate joint; c1: the sagittal diameter of the vertebral body; and d: the distance between the anterior edge of the uncinate joint. Three parameters were measured in the pedicle plane. b: the vertical distance from the anterior edge of the vertebral body to the junction line between the two lateral processes; c2: the sagittal diameter of the vertebral body; e: the transverse diameter of the vertebral body; and f: the sagittal diameter of the vertebral canal. The correlation ratios were calculated: a/c1, b/c2, a/f, b/f, d/e. The data between the two groups were compared by independent sample t-test.Finally, 51 patients were included in this study, 18 males and 33 females, with an average age of 47.9 years (21-72 years). The maximum values of seven parameters measured were all at C7. The minimum b value was at C5, and the minimum f value was at C4. The minimum values of the other five parameters were all at C3, and there was an increasing relationship from C3 to C7 (P 0.05). There was significant difference between male and female with regard to c1, c2, e and d values (P 0.05). No significant differences were observed between men and women regard to the ratio of related parameters (a/c1, b/c2, a/f, b/f, d/e).Anatomical consideration of this area is useful to estimate amount of vertebral body resection when performing the bony cut made in ACAF surgery; however, pre-operative examinations with appropriate radiographic analysis are also recommended.

Growth modulation through anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) has emerged as a fusionless option for the treatment of progressive scoliosis. When tethering the main thoracic curve, the compensatory thoracolumbar/lumbar curve must correct indirectly as a result. The present study evaluated the response of these lumbar curves following AVBT of the main thoracic curves.Patients who underwent thoracic AVBT and who had a minimum follow-up of 2 years were included. Magnitudes of the thoracic and lumbar curves were recorded preoperatively and at the first-erect and 2-year postoperative visits. Lumbar curves were further stratified according to their lumbar modifier (A, B, or C). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and repeated-measures ANOVA were performed to compare correction rates, and the Pearson coefficient was utilized to determine the correlation between the tethered thoracic curve and uninstrumented lumbar curve magnitudes.A total of 218 patients were included. Thoracic curve correction was 40% at the first-erect visit and 43% at 2 years (p = 0.012). Lumbar correction was 30%, 26%, and 18% at the first-erect visit (p0.001 for all compared with preoperatively) and minimally changed at 31%, 26%, and 24% at 2 years for lumbar modifiers A, B, and C, respectively. A total of 118 patients (54%) showed thoracic curve improvement between the first-erect and 2-year visits. In a subgroup analysis, these patients had a correction in lumbar curve magnitude from preoperatively to the first-erect visit of 30%, 22%, and 16% for lumbar modifiers A, B, C, respectively, that increased to 42%, 34%, and 31% at 2 years, with strong correlation to thoracic correction at 2-year follow-up (r = 0.557, p0.001).Although there was immediate lumbar correction following AVBT of a main thoracic curve, further improvement following initial correction was only observed among patients with growth modulation of the thoracic curve. Considering all patients, the uninstrumented lumbar curve corrected 30% at 2 years and the instrumented thoracic curve corrected 40%. As indications for AVBT are refined, these data will provide insight into the response of the uninstrumented lumbar curve.Therapeutic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) is known as a minimally invasive technique for disc space augmentation. Motor weakness after OLIF has been known to occur in some cases. This study aimed to report the incidence and potential risk factors for motor weakness following OLIF.We enrolled 36 patients and 57 segments who underwent OLIF. Computed tomography was performed before and after OLIF. Clinical data, including age, sex, presenting symptoms, bone mineral density, visual analog scale score, operating segments, and postoperative complications, were collected. We divided the patients into groups with and without neurologic deficit. The disc height was measured and compared between the 2 groups. We also divided the segments into groups with and without neurologic deficit. Foramen height and osteophyte length were measured and compared between the 2 groups.The neurologic deficit group included 3 patients (8%), whereas non-neurologic deficit group included 33 patients (92%). The neurologic deficit group included 5 segments (4%), whereas the non-neurologic deficit group included 109 segments (96%). The disc and foramen heights did not differ significantly between the groups with and without neurologic deficit; however, the osteophyte lengths were longer in the neurologic deficit group.In our study, vertebral osteophyte length was found to be a potential risk factor for motor weakness after OLIF. For patients with long osteophytes, additional laminectomy following OLIF or another surgical approach for direct decompression should be considered.

Background Spinal tuberculosis is a manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The incidence of tuberculosis is low in high-income countries; however, globally, it still remains one of the most frequent fatal infectious diseases. Because of its rarity in developed countries, spinal tuberculosis can be mistaken for malignant tumors of the spine, especially in case of an atypical radiologic manifestation and without pulmonary affection. Methods We present the case of a 39-year-old man from South India with quickly progressing gait disturbance and hypesthesia below the Th10 level. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an osteolytic lesion of the vertebral arch Th2 with central necrosis and compression of the spinal cord altogether highly suspicious for spinal metastasis. Results After surgical removal of the mass by laminectomy, the patient regained normal neurologic function. Histology revealed a severe granulomatous inflammation and DNAhybridization of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products detected Mycobacterium tuberculosis-specific DNA in the sample. Biopsy of an enlarged hilar lymphnode allowed us to obtain material to successfully perform a drug resistance test to start specific antimicrobial therapy. Conclusion Spinal tuberculosis, even with atypical radiologic appearance, has to be considered a differential diagnosis in patients with provenance from endemic countries. A multidisciplinary diagnostic approach helps perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing to avoid delaying the start of antibiotic therapy.

To report on the phenomenon of body drift in neurofibromatosis scoliosis and discuss its implication on surgical safety.Ten dystrophic neurofibromatosis scoliosis (NF) and ten adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) were studied by radiographs, CT, and MRI. The curve characteristics and a detailed analysis of the morphology of the apical and three adjacent vertebral segments above and below were done. The coronal alignment and the presence of a drift of the vertebral body in relationship to the lamina were carefully studied in both groups and compared.The mean cobb angle in the NF group was 77.6°, and 63.7° in the AIS group. All the studied vertebra in the NF group had extensive pedicle changes, which were more severe at the apical and periapical regions. Body drift was noted in 29 vertebral segments, with 9/10 of apical segments showing a significant drift. The body drift was associated with significant pedicle dystrophic changes and was independent of the curve magnitude. In comparison, in AIS, no body drift was noted despite a larger deformity and more severe vertebral rotation.The 'body drift' phenomenon was unique to neurofibromatosis scoliosis and was secondary to severe pedicle morphology changes. This was present even in curves less than 60° and could result in cord injury while instrumenting the concave pedicle. Therefore, a thorough preoperative assessment and planning by a 3D CT are mandatory.

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) in the elderly is a major public health concern. This retrospective case-control study aimed to determine the difference in interobserver reliability between radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT), respectively, and whether CT radiological findings can predict prolonged back pain at 2 weeks after OVCFs.Patients were divided into the prolonged back pain group or the recovered back pain group depending on the numerical rating scale at 2 weeks after admission. Radiography, MRI, and CT images were classified on the basis of conventions described by previous classifications. Interobserver reliability was calculated on images rated by two board-certified spine surgeons. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate whether the presence or absence of anterior wall injury, endplate deficit, posterior wall injury, lateral wall injury, or intervertebral disc deficit on CT was predictive of prolonged back pain.Of the 130 patients, 89 cases (68.5%) involved prolonged back pain at 2 weeks after admission. Neither average age (79.8 vs. 80.1 years, respectively) nor duration to initial consultation (9.4 vs. 6.4 days, respectively) differed significantly between the prolonged and recovered back pain groups. Interobserver reliability was 0.51, 0.77 (0.67-0.86), and 0.82 (0.72-0.92) for radiography, MRI, and CT, respectively. After adjusting for confounding factors such as age, sex, duration to initial consultation, and extent of OVCF, the multivariate analysis showed that the presence of endplate deficit and posterior wall injury was a significant predictive factor for prolonged back pain (odds ratio [OR] 8.5, area under the curve (AUC); 0.79 and OR 2.5, AUC 0.72), respectively.Good reliability assessments of CT-based evaluations were noted. After a detailed novel CT evaluation at initial presentation, the presence of an endplate deficit and posterior wall injury was the significant risk factor for prolonged back pain at 2 weeks after an OVCF.

To retrospectively evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) for the management of osteoblastic-related metastatic vertebral lesions.A total of 31 patients with 58 osteoblastic-related metastatic vertebral lesions underwent PKP were reviewed. The clinical efficacy was assessed based on parameters including visual analogue scale, Oswestry Disability Index, vertebral body height variation and quality of life. Major and minor complications were systematically evaluated to assess the safety of the procedure.Average follow-up period was 22.5 ± 11.1 months(range, 3 to 46 months). The procedure duration time ranged from 50 to 180 minutes (average 96.8 ± 36.9 minutes). Mean visual analogue scale scores decreased significantly from 6.1 ± 1.8 pre-operatively to 2.7 ± 1.5 at 3 days after PKP (p0.001), and remained largely immutable at 1 month (2.0 ± 0.7; 31 patients; p0.001), 3 months (2.4 ± 1.2; 30 patients; p0.001) and 1 year (3.0 ± 1.0; 27 patients; p0.001). Oswestry Disability Index scores and vertebral body height variation also changed after the procedure, with significant differences between pre-operative scores and at each follow-up examination (p0.001). Mean quality of life scores were 90.8 ± 12.9 pre-operatively and improved to 99.5 ± 12.1(27 patients, p0.001) at 1 year after PKP. The only minor encountered complication was bone cement leakage, which was seen in 6.5%(2 of 31) of patients. None of the patients experienced major complications.PKP is a safe and effective treatment strategy for osteoblastic-related metastatic vertebral lesions from a variety of tumor etiologies.

Background C2 vertebral body fractures are relatively rare fractures with no defined management protocol and outcomes. The aim of the study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of C2 body fratecures. Methods The study was conducted at the Department of Neurosurgery, Nizam's Iinstitute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, India, following clearance from the Institutional Ethical Committee. The data of all patients with traumatic C2 body fracture who were managed in our department between Jan'2008 to Jan'2019 was retrieved from the database. Functional status of the patients was assessed by Neck disability index while pain was assessed by VAS at follow up after at least 6 months. Fusion and regional kyphotic angles (O-C2 and C2-C7) were assessed for radiological outcome. Results There were a total of 16 patients with isolated C2 body fractures in the defined time period. The male (n=11) : female (n=5) distribution was 2.2:1. Ten patients had road traffic accidents while the remaining 6 had history of fall from height. Only 3 patients presented with neurological deficits. Benzel Type -3 fracture pattern distribution was the most common fracture pattern (Type 1 = 1, Type 2 = 5, Type 3 = 9). Of these, 10 were operated and 6 were managed conservatively. The VAS and NDI values improved significantly in all at follow up when compared to values at presentation (p = 0.001). Time to return to work was significantly shorter in those treated with surgical intervention (mean = 2.9 + 0.87) (p = 0.001). Fusion was achieved in all the patients in both groups. Mean O-C2 angle at follow up was 21.13 + 10.1. Mean O-C2 angle was significantly decreased in non-surgical group at follow up (p = 0.039) but no significant reduction was observed in surgical group. Conclusions The management of C2 body fractures needs to be individualized, reserving surgical management for fractures requiring fragment retrival or restitution of alignment if facets were fractured.

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) rarely cause vertebral osteomyelitis; however, the clinical characteristics of vertebral osteomyelitis caused by NTM are poorly understood due to its rarity. A 74-year-old man with lung cancer was treated with prednisolone for immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated immune-related adverse events. He had been experiencing mild back pain without febrile episodes for five months, and was admitted to the hospital for worsening back pain and progressive paraplegia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed spinal cord compression at T4-5 due to fractures of the T5 and T7 vertebral bodies. The culture of a sample of pus from the T7 vertebral body obtained at the time of spinal fusion surgery yielded the Mycobacteroides abscessus (M. abscessus) complex. The patient was diagnosed with vertebral osteomyelitis caused by M. abscessus complex and treated with clarithromycin, amikacin, and imipenem; clarithromycin was later replaced by sitafloxacin because of inducible macrolide resistance. However, his neurologic deficits were irreversible, and he died due to a deteriorating general condition. The strain was identified up to subspecies level as M. abscessus subsp. abscessus by hsp65 and rpoB sequencing and nucleic acid chromatography. Although vertebral osteomyelitis due to NTM is rare, delayed diagnosis can lead to serious complications or poor outcomes. A prolonged clinical course, less frequent fever, vertebral destruction or spinal deformity, neurological deficits, or immunosuppressed conditions might be suggestive of NTM vertebral osteomyelitis.

We evaluated the effects of using a navigation technique with anterior approach surgery for thoracolumbar burst fractures on vertebral body screw placement and discussed its effects on the long-term prognosis of patients.We performed a prospective study of patients who had undergone anterior approach thoracolumbar surgery from May 2018 to August 2019. The 40 patients were randomly divided into the navigation group (NG) and control group (CG). In the NG, vertebral body screw placement was performed with 2-dimensional navigation guidance. For the CG, no navigation guidance was used. The clinical and radiological evaluations of the 2 groups were compared preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and at the final follow-up. Paired t tests and the χNo differences were found in the hospital stay, operation time, autologous blood recovery, postoperative drainage volume, Cobb angle of the preoperative coronal plane and sagittal plane, postoperative sagittal plane, postoperative Cobb angle of the coronal and sagittal planes measured on radiographs and computed tomography scans between the 2 groups (P0.05). The correction of the kyphosis deformity of the fracture segment was better in both groups (P0.001). The intraoperative blood loss and Cobb angle of the postoperative coronal plane in the NG was less than that in the CG (P0.05). Also, the 4 vertebral body screws in the NG were more parallel to the endplate than were those in the CG.We found that the use of navigation can improve the accuracy of screw placement in anterior approach surgery for thoracolumbar burst fractures and improve patients' long-term prognosis.

Vertebral body tethering (VBT) has shown promising results but also a high tether breakage rate, which has been reported in up to 48% of patients. Tether breakages can lead to loss of correction, and the most used definition for tether breakage is a loss of segmental correction of 5°. However, there may also be some breakages that do not have a negative influence on curve correction. Analyzing the real breakage rate was the aim of this study.All patients who underwent anterior revision surgery after VBT were included in this retrospective study. Real (intraoperatively confirmed) tether breakages were compared to preoperatively suspected tether breakages. The definition for a suspected tether breakage was an angular change of more than 5° between an early and the latest radiograph.Ten patients who received 11 revision surgeries with a total of 15 revised curves were analyzed. Of the 80 analyzed segments, 36 were found to have a breakage. Of these 36 segments, 20 were suspected to be broken preoperatively. Sixteen breakages were not identified on preoperative radiographs (44%). One suspected broken tether was intraoperatively found to be intact.By using the 5° rule, only 56% of the tether breakages could be diagnosed. On the other hand, many tether breakages will not result in a loss of correction.

European spine journal 31(4), 1060-1066 (2021). doi:10.1007/s00586-021-07076-9, Published by Springer, Berlin ; Heidelberg ; New York

Purpose In the surgical treatment of osteoporotic spine fractures, there is no clear recommendation, which treatment is best for the individual patient with vertebra plana and/or neurological deficit requiring instrumentation. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes after dorsal or 360° instrumentation of osteoporotic fractures of the thoracolumbar spine in a cohort of patients representing clinical reality. Methods A total of 116 consecutive patients were operated on between 2008 and 2020. Inclusion criteria were osteoporotic fracture, thoracolumbar location, and dorsal instrumentation. In 79 cases, vertebral body replacement (VBR) was performed additionally. Patient outcomes including complications, EQ-5D at follow-up, and sagittal correction were analyzed. Results Medical and surgical complications occurred in 59.5% of patients with 360° instrumentation compared to 64.9% of patients with dorsal instrumentation only (p = 0.684). Dorsal instrumentation plus VBR resulted in a sagittal correction of 9.3 ± 7.4° (0.1–31.6°) compared to 6.0 ± 5.6° (0.2–22.8°) after dorsal instrumentation only, respectively (p = 0.0065). EQ-5D was completed by 79 patients after 4.00 ± 2.88 years (0.1–11.8 years) and was 0.56 ± 0.32 (− 0.21–1.00) for VBR compared to 0.56 ± 0.34 (− 0.08–1.00) without VBR after dorsal instrumentation (p = 0.994). Conclusion 360° instrumentation represents a legitimate surgical technique with no additional morbidity even for the elderly and multimorbid osteoporotic population. Particularly, if sufficient long-term construct stability is in doubt or ventral stenosis is present, there is no need to abstain from additional ventral reinforcement and decompression.

Актуальность. Взрывной перелом тела позвонка — это травматическое повреждение, при котором тело позвонка взрывается или взрывается со смещением под влиянием высокоэнергетического осевого сжатия, характеризуется центробежной экструзией фрагментов с проникновением костных фрагментов в превертебральные ткани или позвоночный канал, также сопровождается разрывом межпозвоночного диска, фрагменты которого попадают в тела позвонка и мешают сращению. Декомпрессия нервных структур достигается за счет ламинэктомии или корпорэктомии. При не-осложненных повреждениях преимущественно выполняется спондилодез транспедикулярними конструкциями различной протяженности. Цель. Анализ течения регенерации тела позвонка, качества переднего и заднего спондилодеза после хирургического лечения взрывных переломов грудного и поясничного отделов позвоночника. Материалы и методы. Наблюдали 77 больных со взрывными переломами грудного и поясничного отделов позвоночника. Группу А составили 55 больных, которым выполняли задний спондилодез с восьмивинтовой транспедикулярной фиксацией. В группу В вошли 22 больных, которым выполнялся переднезадний спондилодез на 360°. На рентгенограммах позвоночника измеряли угол кифотической деформации по Коббу и степень компрессии тела позвонка. На компьютерных томограммах качественно оценивали костное сращение, наличие дефектов тела позвонка, периостального регенерата, заполняемость межпозвоночной опоры костным регенератом, формирование заднего спондилодеза. Результаты. В группе А у больных без неврологической симптоматики величина восстановления высоты тела позвонка составила 20 %, у больных с неврологической симптоматикой — 21,1 %. Размер кифотической деформации равен 17,8°. У больных, имевших регенерацию тела позвонка за счет периостальной регенерации, степень компрессии составила 50,5 %. Степень компрессии после хирургического вмешательства — 29,2 %. У 29 больных наблюдалось подсвязочное кровоизлияние с распространением на один или два смежных межпозвоночных диска. У 19 больных, имевших в наличии периостальный регенерат, было подсвязочное кровоизлияние. При кифотической деформации более 30° у больных имелись повреждения костных или лигаментозних структур заднего комплекса. При деформации от 12 до 20° у 64 % больных было повреждение заднего опорного комплекса. У 39 % больных с деформацией до 12° выявлено повреждение заднего опорного костного или лигаментозного комплекса. В группе В величина кифотической деформации составила 19,7°. У большинства больных отмечалась костная перестройка в межпозвоночной опоре. У 63 % больных была регенерация удаленного тела позвонка. Межпозвоночный имплантат, заполненный костью, через длительный срок имел костную структуру. Выводы. При лечении взрывных переломов методом восьмивинтовой фиксации у 48 % больных регенерация происходит за счет комбинации периостальной и эндостальной регенерации тела позвонка. Наличие подсвязочного кровоизлияния может быть фактором, влияющим на формирование периостальной регенерации тела позвонка. Периостальная регенерация тела позвонка дополняет эндостальную и является важным фактором, влияющим на сохранение достигнутой коррекции деформации. Восстановление высоты тела позвонка составляет 20 %. При комбинированном переднезаднем спондилодезе у 63 % больных происходит перестройка межпозвоночной опоры на костную ткань. Оба метода предотвращают прогрессирование кифотической деформации за счет эндостальной и периостальной регенерации тела позвонка, перестройки межпозвоночной опоры на костную ткань и формирования заднего костного спондилодеза.

Vertebral osteomyelitis (VO) is an infection of the spine mainly caused by bacterial pathogens. The pathogenesis leading to destruction of intervertebral discs (IVDs) and adjacent vertebral bodies (VBs) is poorly described. The present study aimed at investigating the connection between infection and bone/disc metabolism in VO patients. 14 patients with VO (infection group) and 14 patients with burst fractures of the spine (fracture group; control) were included prospectively. Tissue biopsies from affected IVDs and adjacent VBs were analysed by RT-qPCR for mRNA-expression levels of 18 target genes including chemokines, adipokines and genes involved in bone metabolism. Most importantly, the receptor activator of NF-κB/osteoprotegerin (RANK/OPG) expression ratio was drastically elevated in both VBs and IVDs of the infection group. In parallel, expression of genes of the prostaglandin-E2-dependent prostanoid system was induced. Such genes regulate tissue degradation processes via the triad OPG/RANK/RANKL as well as via the chemokines IL-8 and CCL-20, whose expression was also found to be increased upon infection. The gene expression of the adipokine leptin, which promotes inflammatory tissue degradation, was higher in IVD tissue of the infection group, whereas the transcription of omentin and resistin genes, whose functions are largely unknown in the context of infectious diseases, was lower in infected VBs. In summary, similar expression patterns of pro-inflammatory cytokines and pro-osteoclastogenic factors were identified in VBs and IVDs of patients suffering from VO. This suggests that common immuno-metabolic pathways are involved in the mechanisms leading to tissue degradation in VBs and IVDs during VO.

European spine journal 31(4), 1013-1021 (2021). doi:10.1007/s00586-021-07035-4, Published by Springer, Berlin ; Heidelberg ; New York

To determine the impact of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on fracture classification for low lumbar fractures (LLFs) compared to CT alone. This study was a retrospective review of 41 consecutive patients with LLFs who underwent CT and MRI within 10 days of injury. Three reviewers classified all fractures according to AOSpine Classification and the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification (TLISS). Posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury in MRI was defined by black stripe discontinuity and in CT by the presence of: vertebral body translation, facet joint malalignment, horizontal laminar or spinous process fracture, and interspinous widening. The proportion of patients with AO type A/B/C and with TLISS

Aim of this study was to analyze the rate of tether breakages after lumbar vertebral body tethering (VBT) and to study the effects and possible benefits of the use of a 2-tether construct. Tether breakage is a known mechanical complication after VBT. However, the literature only refers to thoracic VBT, and no data on the breakage rate or 2-tether construct after lumbar VBT are available. Patients who underwent lumbar VBT with lowest instrumented vertebra at L3 or L4 and had a 1-year follow-up were included. Radiologic data were obtained preoperatively, at the 1st standing X-ray and at the 1-year follow-up to study breakage rate, loss of correction and lumbar lordosis in 1- and 2-tether constructs. Data from 30 patients (mean age 14.7 ± 1.8) were available, 12 with double tether. Double tether did not decrease lumbar lordosis. The breakage rate was 24% in segments instrumented with a single tether and 16% in segments instrumented with a double tether (OR 1.6, p = 0.4). Lumbar loss of correction was 10° ± 6.8° in the entire cohort and 12.1° ± 5.4° in patients with a breakage (p = 0.2). Revision rate was 10%, due to tether breakage and loss of correction. Breakage rate after lumbar VBT is high, but was improved with the use of a 2-tether construct. Despite tether breakage, loss of correction was limited and the revision rate low. The use of a double tether does not have a kyphotic effect on the lumbar spine.

Purpose The aim of this systematically review is to detect differences between fractures located at the mid-thoracic spine compared to fractures of the thoracolumbar junction (TLJ) and the lumbar spine in osteoporotic vertebral body fractures. Methods This review is based on articles retrieved by a systematic search in the PubMed and Web of Science database for publications regarding osteoporotic fractures of the thoracolumbar spine with respect to the fracture location. Differences in prevalence, cause of fracture, fracture healing, and outcomes between the mid-thoracic spine and the TLJ and the lumbar spine were considered. Results Altogether, 238 articles could be retrieved from the literature search. A total of 222 articles were excluded. Thus, 16 remaining original articles were included in this systematic review comprising the topics prevalence, bone mineral density and regional blood flow, biomechanics, subsequent fractures, and outcome, respectively. The overall level of evidence of the vast majority of studies was moderate to low. Conclusion Several differences between osteoporotic fractures of the mid-thoracic spine compared to the TLJ and the lumbar spine could be identified. Thereby, osteoporotic mid-thoracic fractures seem to be particularly more related to frailty without a history of traumatic injury compared to osteoporotic fractures of the TLJ and the lumbar spine. Additionally, the presence of severe mid-thoracic fractures predicts subsequent fractures of the hip. In contrast, subsequent fractures of the spine are less likely.

Introduction Vertebral fractures in patients with bone density reduction are often a major challenge for the surgeon, as reduced bone density can lead to screw loosening. Several options are available to determine bone density preoperatively. In our study, we investigated the correlation of Hounsfield units (HU) of a contrast medium computed tomography (CT) to the bone density values of a quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and computed a formula to estimate bone density values using HU. Materials and methods In our retrospective data analysis, we examine 98 vertebral bodies from 35 patients who received a contrast medium CT of the spine and a QCT, performed no longer than 1 month apart. The determined HU from the contrast medium CT were compared with the bone density values of the QCT and examined for correlations. Linear logistic regression was used to estimate bone density values base on HU. Results A strong correlation was found between the HU measured in the CT and the bone density values (r = 0.894, p Conclusions Bone density values correlate well to HU measured in contrast medium CT. Using simple formula, the bone density of a contrast medium CT of vertebral bodies can be estimated based on HU without additional examinations and unnecessary costs.

BACKGROUND: Anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) offers a dynamic fusionless correction option for children with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Few existing clinical studies evaluating novel AVBT in skeletally immature children have questioned the midterm efficacy with concerns of overcorrection and curve progression with remaining growth. The current study investigates the effect of this technique in skeletally mature children (Risser ≥ 4 and Sanders ≥ 7) with AIS with limited remaining growth potential. METHODS: We evaluated skeletally mature children with AIS who underwent the AVBT technique for a single structural major curve between 40° and 80° with ≥50% flexibility on dynamic radiographs and a minimum of 1 year of follow-up. Pertinent clinical and radiographic data collected include skeletal maturity, curve type, Cobb angle, sagittal parameters, and a patient-reported outcome measure Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire. RESULTS: All 10 children were female with a mean age of 14.9 ± 2.7 years at the time of surgery. The mean follow-up was 24.1 ± 3.6 months. The mean Risser and Sanders scores were 4.2 ± 0.6 and 7.2 ± 0.6, respectively. Three patients had major thoracic curves, and 7 patients had thoracolumbar/lumbar curves. Cranial and caudal instrumented levels were T5 and L4. Mean preoperative Cobb's angle was 52.0° ± 11.6° and was corrected to 15.9° ± 6.8° on the first erect postoperative radiograph, with stabilization of corrected curve at the 1-year follow-up (mean Cobb's angle of 15.3° ± 8.7°). Mean preoperative and postoperative SRS-22 scores were 78.0 ± 3.2 and 92.5 ± 3.1, respectively (P < .01). No complications were noted until the last follow-up. CONCLUSION: Our preliminary experience with this novel AVBT as an alternative technique to fusion to stabilize progressive idiopathic scoliosis in skeletally mature children is promising. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

Purpose Over the past 12 years, vertebral body tethering (VBT) has been gradually promoted for treating scoliosis, but there are few published studies, with only short-term follow-up. This study aimed to systematically review VBT efficacy and safety for treating scoliosis. Methods PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies on VBT treatment of scoliosis published up to November 2021. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias in included studies. Data on clinical efficacy, unplanned reoperations, and complications were extracted. The meta-analysis was performed with R 4.1.0. Results Twenty-six studies involving 1045 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The correction rate of major curve immediately post-operation was 46.6% ± 13.8% (16%–69%) and that at final follow-up was 53.2% ± 17.9% (16%–79%). The single-arm meta-analysis results of all included studies showed that VBT was effective in general. The overall clinical success rate was 73.02% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 68.31%–78.05%). The pooled overall unplanned reoperation rate was 8.66% (95% CI: 5.53%–13.31%). The overall incidence rate of complications was 36.8% (95% CI: 23.9%–49.7%). The subgroup analysis based on follow-up time indicated that patients with follow-up time >36 months had increased clinical success rate, unplanned reoperation rate, and incidence rate of complications compared with those with Conclusions The current evidence from at least 3-year follow-up in different countries indicates that VBT is an effective surgical approach for treating scoliosis, with 73.88% of patients achieving clinical success. Nevertheless, about one in seven patients (15.8%) required unplanned reoperations, but only 7.17% required PSF. About half (52.17%) of the patients experienced complications. Due to the limitation of the study number and quality, our conclusion may be biased and requires verification by further studies with longer follow-up times.

Spinal injuries are common, ranging from minor ligamentous injury or spinous process fracture to fractures of the vertebral body and posterior elements and ligamentous injury, resulting in injury to the spinal cord. Understanding the epidemiology, anatomy, biomechanics and classification of spinal injuries is important. The aim of this article is to describe the aetiology of fractures, investigations to aid the diagnosis and management options available and different factors that influence the management.

In adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), non-invasive surgical techniques such as anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) enable to treat patients with mild and severe degrees of deformity while maintaining lower lumbar motion by avoiding spinal fusion. However, multiple features and characteristics affect the overall patient outcome, notably the 3D spine geometry and bone maturity, but also from decisions taken intra-operatively such as the selected tethered vertebral levels, which makes it difficult to anticipate the patient response.We propose here a forecasting method which can be used during AVBT surgery, exploiting the spatio-temporal features extracted from a dynamic networks. The model learns the corrective effect from the spine's different segments while taking under account the time differences in the initial diagnosis and between the serial acquisitions taken before and during surgery. Clinical parameters are integrated through an attention-based decoder, allowing to associate geometrical features to patient status. Long-term relationships allow to ensure regularity in geometrical curve prediction, using a manifold-based smoothness term to regularize geometrical outputs, capturing the temporal variations of spine correction.A dataset of 695 3D spine reconstructions was used to train the network, which was evaluated on a hold-out dataset of 72 scoliosis patients using the baseline 3D reconstruction obtained prior to surgery, yielding an overall reconstruction error of [Formula: see text]mm based on pre-identified landmarks on vertebral bodies. The model was also tested prospectively on a separate cohort of 15 AIS patients, demonstrating the integration within the OR theatre.The proposed predictive network allows to intra-operatively anticipate the geometrical response of the spine to AVBT procedures using the dynamic features.

Background Anterior vertebral body tethering is an alternative to fusion surgery for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) that is purported to preserve spinal motion. There is limited information regarding the measurable motion that is maintained over the instrumented levels following thoracic anterior vertebral body tethering surgery in humans. The purpose of the present study was to assess radiographic spinal motion 1 year after anterior vertebral body tethering. Methods As part of a prospective U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigational device exemption study, 32 patients were treated with thoracic anterior vertebral body tethering. At 1 year postoperatively, patients were evaluated with standing flexion-extension and side-bending radiographs in a microdose biplanar slot scanning imaging system. The angle subtended by the screws at the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) and lower instrumented vertebra (LIV) was measured on left and right-bending radiographs to evaluate the coronal arc of motion and was compared with preoperative values over the same levels. At 1 year postoperatively, the sagittal Cobb angle was measured over the instrumented levels on flexion and extension radiographs. Results Side-bending radiographs revealed that the mean angle subtended by the screws changed from 15° ± 8° on left-bending radiographs to 8° ± 6° on right-bending radiographs. The mean coronal arc of motion on bending was 7° ± 6°, with 20 (62.5%) of 32 patients having a coronal arc of motion of >5°. The mean preoperative coronal arc of motion over the instrumented segments was 30° ± 9°. On flexion-extension lateral radiographs made at 1 year postoperatively, the mean kyphotic angle over the instrumented segments was 33° ± 13° in flexion and 11° ± 14° in extension, for a mean postoperative arc of motion of 21° ± 12° between flexion and extension radiographs. Conclusions At 1 year following thoracic anterior vertebral body tethering for the treatment of AIS, the thoracic spine showed a measurable range of coronal and sagittal plane motion over the instrumented levels without evidence of complete autofusion. Motion in the coronal plane decreased by 77% following anterior vertebral body tethering. These findings provide proof of concept that sagittal spinal motion is preserved after thoracic anterior vertebral body tethering, although the functional importance remains to be determined. Level of evidence Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

An atlantoaxial subluxation from the unstable Os odontoideum by the failure of proper integrations between the embryological somites might be a commonly reported pathology. However, its suspicious origin or paralleled occurrence with other congenital anomalies of vertebral body might be a relatively rare phenomenon. The authors present two cases, who simply presented with clinical signs of prolonged, intractable cervicalgia without any neurological deficits, revealed this rare feature of C1–2 subluxation from the unstable, orthotropic type of Os odontoideum that coincide with congenitally fused cervical vertebral bodies between C2–3. Surprisingly, in one case, when traced from the lower cervical down to the thoracic-lumbar levels during the preoperative work-up process, was also compromised with multi-level butterfly vertebrae formations. Presented cases highlight the association of various congenital vertebrae anomalies and the rationale to fuse only affected joints.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Vertebral body sliding osteotomy (VBSO) was previously reported as a technique to decompress spinal canal by translating the vertebral body anteriorly and is indicated for cervical myelopathy caused by spondylosis or ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. However, little is known about its fusion and subsidence rates. PURPOSE To compare the fusion and subsidence rates of VBSO, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), and anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF). STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective cohort study PATIENT SAMPLE One hundred sixty-eight patients who underwent VBSO, ACDF, or ACCF for the treatment of cervical myelopathy and were followed-up for more than 2 years were retrospectively reviewed. OUTCOME MEASURES Fusion and subsidence rates, visual analog scale (VAS) scores for neck pain, neck disability index (NDI), and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores were assessed. METHODS Results of the VBSO, ACDF, and ACCF groups were compared using Student's t-test and chi-square test. RESULTS The fusion rate at 1-year postoperatively and the final follow-up for VBSO was 92.9% (37/42). VBSO demonstrated a higher 1-year fusion rate than ACDF (77.9% [74/95], p=0.04) and ACCF (74.2% [23/31], p=0.04). However, the fusion rate at the final follow-up did not demonstrate significant difference. The mean amount of subsidence (ACDF group, 1.5±1.2 mm; VBSO group, 1.5±1.5 mm; p=1.00) and rate of significant subsidence of > 3 mm (ACDF group, 13.7% [13/95]; VBSO group, 14.3% [6/42]; p=1.00) were similar for ACDF and VBSO. Furthermore, the mean amount of subsidence in VBSO was significantly less than that in ACCF (1.5±1.5 mm vs 2.4±2.0 mm; p=0.04). Neck pain VAS, NDI, and JOA scores were not significantly different among the groups. CONCLUSIONS VBSO demonstrated faster solid union than ACDF and ACCF, although the fusion rates at the final follow-up were similar. VBSO resulted in less subsidence than ACCF at the 1-year follow-up. VBSO could be applied safely when the shape and/or location of the pathologic foci and sagittal alignment favor its application without much concern for pseudarthrosis or subsidence.

Background Neonatal infectious spondylodiscitis is a rare bony infection with atypical clinical presentation and non-specific systemic symptoms. Diagnosis and treatment are often delayed resulting in vertebral destruction and severe complications. We retrospectively reviewed the case of an infant with infectious spondylodiscitis resulting in T12 body destruction and marked angular kyphosis. Case-report A 4-week-old infant developed an infectious spondylodiscitis resulting in destruction of the T12 vertebral body and involvement of disc between T12 and L1. At 6 months of age, X-ray showed a marked thoracolumbar angular kyphosis above 50 Cobb degrees. Therefore, the patient underwent single time surgery with double anterior and posterior approach. At 9 years follow up, clinical and radiological findings show a stable correction with good aesthetic appearance. Conclusion Neonatal spondylodiscitis could lead to marked kyphosis similar to the congenital one. Since treatment with casts and tutors is often inefficacious, prompt surgery should be considered. The double anterior and posterior approach is the best option in this condition.

Shoulder balance is an important factor for patient satisfaction following surgery for idiopathic scoliosis (IS). There is no literature reporting the effect of anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) on shoulder balance. The purpose of this study was to report the prevalence of postoperative shoulder imbalance in patients undergoing AVBT for IS. In this retrospective case series, patients enrolled in a multicenter scoliosis registry who underwent AVBT from 2013 to 2017 in two Canadian centers were identified. The primary outcome was shoulder imbalance, defined as an absolute radiographic shoulder height of > 2 cm, at 2 years postoperatively (follow-up range: 22–30 months). Clavicular angle and T1 tilt angle were also investigated. Of the 50 patients identified (92% female; preoperative age: 11.9 ± 1.4 years), there were 43 (86%) patients with Lenke 1 and 7 (14%) patients with Lenke 2 curves. The mean Cobb angles of the proximal thoracic and main thoracic curves were 22.8° ± 8.8° and 49.4° ± 8.5° preoperatively and 13.1° ± 7.5° and 24.9° ± 9.5° at a mean follow-up time of 2.1 years. Absolute clavicular angle and T1 tilt angle were 2.8° ± 2.2° and 4.8° ± 3.5° preoperatively and 2.2° ± 1.7° and 4.7° ± 4.2° at 2-year follow-up. Preoperatively, absolute shoulder height averaged 15.6 ± 10.4 mm, and 15 (30%) patients had shoulder imbalance. At 2-year follow-up, absolute shoulder height averaged 11.2 ± 8.3 mm, and 8 (16%) patients had shoulder imbalance. Of the patients who had acceptable shoulder balance preoperatively, 4 (11.4%) became imbalanced at 2 years postoperatively. Postoperative shoulder imbalance in this early group of patients with IS undergoing AVBT was seen in 16% of patients, a reduction from 30% preoperatively. These results likely reflect the potential of the proximal thoracic curve to correct spontaneously following AVBT. Level III.

Bing Tan,1,2 Qi-Yuan Yang,2 Bin Fan,2 Chao Lei,2 Zhen-Ming Hu1 1Department of Orthopedic, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Spine Surgery, The Third Hospital of MianYang, Sichuan Mental Health Center, Mianyang, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Zhen-Ming HuDepartment of Orthopedic, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +8615284041340Email spinecenter@163.comQi-Yuan YangDepartment of Spine Surgery, The Third Hospital of MianYang, Sichuan Mental Health Center, 190 Jiannan Road, Mianyang, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +8615882889797Email qiyuan5988@163.comPurpose: The goal of this study was to explore the outcomes of unilateral and bilateral approach percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) using CT-guidance in the treatment of severe osteoporotic single-level vertebral biconcave-shaped fracture.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 89 patients with severe osteoporotic single-level vertebral biconcave-shaped fracture who had undergone unilateral and bilateral PKP surgeries using CT-guidance at our hospital between June 2013 and June 2019, and followed for at least 1 year. All patients were divided into unilateral (the transverse process-pedicle approach, n = 49) and bilateral (the pedicle approach, n = 40) groups. We collected the clinical and radiological evaluation results during postoperative and last follow-up periods.Results: Our findings revealed that the surgery time for the unilateral group was significantly shorter than that of the bilateral group at P < 0.05. The amount of bone cement and radiation exposure of the unilateral group were significantly lesser than that of the bilateral group (P < 0.05). Relative to preoperative data, the values of the VAS score and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were significantly improved at 1 day after surgery and the last follow-up in the two groups (P < 0.05). Notably, the median height of vertebra at 1 day after surgery and the last follow-up in the unilateral group was significantly restored than that of preoperative data (P < 0.05). However, the median height of vertebra at the same time intervals in the bilateral group showed no significant change compared with preoperative data (P > 0.05). Furthermore, the rate of bone cement leakage and incidence of adjacent-level vertebra fracture were not significantly different in the two groups (P > 0.05). Finally, both groups can obtain an asymmetrical distribution of bone cement in the vertebra.Conclusion: Compared to the bilateral PKP, unilateral PKP using CT-guidance in the treatment of the sOVBFs exhibits significantly shorter operation time, lesser radiation dose, and complications. Moreover, unilateral PKP can restore the median height of the vertebral body and eventually obtain a symmetrical distribution of bone cement in the vertebra.Keywords: severe biconcave-shaped fracture, percutaneous kyphoplasty, osteoporosis, unilateral/bilateral approach

This two center prospective case series reports outcomes at >2 years follow-up of anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) of 112 immature patients. AVBT led to satisfactory deformity correction with a 22% complication rate. Long-term follow up is necessary until we can understand the true value of this procedure., Study Design. Prospective case series. Objective. Determine the efficacy of anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) in skeletally immature patients. Summary of Background Data. The value of AVBT is currently unclear given the paucity of available data. Methods. Consecutive skeletally immature patients with idiopathic scoliosis were treated with AVBT between 2012 and 2018 by one of two surgeons working at two independent centers and followed up for >2 years. Data were collected prospectively and supplemented retrospectively where necessary. Outcomes were measured preoperatively, at first erect radiograph (FE), 1-year postoperatively and at most recent follow up (FU). Results. One hundred twelve patients underwent 116 primary tethering procedures (108 thoracic and eight lumbar tethers). Four patients had primary tethering of both lumbar and thoracic curves. At surgery mean age was 12.7 ± 1.4 years (8.2–16.7) and Risser 0.5 ± 0.9 (0–3). Follow up was mean 37 ± 9 months (15–64). Preoperative mean coronal Cobb angle of the 130 tethered curves was 50.8° ± 10.2 (31–81) and corrected significantly to 26.6° ± 10.1 (−3–61) at FE radiograph (P

Background Two-dimensional fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous pedicle screw placement is currently the most widely applied instrumentation for minimally invasive treatment of spinal injuries requiring stabilization. Although this technique has advantages over open instrumentation, it also presents new challenges and specific complications. The objective of this study was to provide recommendations developed from the experience of several spinal surgeons at different minimally invasive spine surgery reference centers to solve specific problems and prevent complications during the learning curve of this technique. Methods An AO Spine Latin America minimally invasive spine surgery study group analyzed the most frequent complications and challenges occurring during the placement of >14,000 two-dimensional fluoroscopy–guided percutaneous pedicle screws at different centers over 15 years. Twenty tips considered most relevant to performing this technique, excluding problems directly related to specific brands of instruments, were presented. Results The 20 tips included the following: (1) positioning; (2) clean and painless; (3) fewer x-rays; (4) check the clock; (5) beveled tip; (6) transverse-rib-pedicle; (7) double Jamshidi; (8) hammer the Kirschner wire; (9) bent tip; (10) too loose, too tight; (11) new trajectory; (12) manual control; (13) start over; (14) Kirschner wire first; (15) adhesive drape control; (16) bend the rod; (17) lower rods; (18) freehand inner; (19) posterior fusion; (20) revision. Conclusions Implementation of these tips might improve performance of this technique and reduce the complications related to percutaneous pedicle screw placement.

Background The preoperative assessment of C2 morphology is important for safe instrumentation. Sclerotic changes are often seen in C2 pedicles. Evaluating the diameter measurements solely might not accurately assess the safety of screw insertion. We have proposed a novel grading system of the C2 pedicle that includes sclerosis and evaluated the predictive value of this grading system with the surgeon's safety evaluation. Methods We reviewed and measured the dimensional values in 220 cervical computed tomography angiograms. Additionally, we used a grading system that divides the findings into 5 grades according to the width measurement and degree of sclerosis in the C2 pedicle. Two spine surgeons independently classified the pedicles as follows: safe (minimal risk of pedicle violation), caution needed (caution to minimize pedicle violation), or dangerous (a high risk of pedicle violation). Finally, we compared the measurements and the surgeons' safety assessments. Results A total of 411 pedicles of 203 patients (mean age, 69.5 years; 49.5% women) were included. Of the 411 C2 pedicles, 170 were classified as high risk by ≥1 surgeon. Between the dimensional measurements and grading system, the sclerotic grade showed the best predictive value. Conclusions We have introduced a novel tool to evaluate the safety of C2 pedicle screw placement. Our results suggest that our pedicle width–sclerosis grading system is reproducible and predicts the surgeon's assessment of safe screw placement better than C2 pedicle diametrical measurements alone.

Vertebral body tethering (VBT), otherwise known as fusion-less anterior scoliosis correction (ASC), is a new and increasingly interesting therapeutic option for selected scoliosis patients. The available data on this surgical technique are still limited and guidelines on patient selection or surgical timing are not available. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature on VBT. The analysis was performed in accordance with the PRISMA Statement. Nine studies with data from 175 patients were available. On average, 7.3 vertebrae were instrumented. Surgical time was 230 min and the estimated blood loss 153 ml. The mean correction on the coronal plane was 52%, and there was no significant change in sagittal parameters. The revision rate was 18.9%. The methodological quality assessment with the Coleman score gave unsatisfactory results, so that available data are not sufficient to propose general indications or guidelines to perform VBT.Das Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) bzw. die dynamische Skoliosekorrektur (DSK) repräsentiert eine neue und zunehmend diskutierte Therapieoption für ausgewählte Skoliosepatienten. Die Datenlage zu dieser Technik ist jedoch noch sehr begrenzt und von Fachgesellschaften unterstützte Behandlungsempfehlungen sind nicht vorhanden. Ziel dieser Studie war die systemische Analyse der aktuellen Literatur mit Bezug zum VBT. Die Analyse erfolgte nach dem „PRISMA Statement“. Neun Studien mit Daten von 175 Patienten wurden eingeschlossen. Durchschnittlich wurden 7,3 Wirbelkörper instrumentiert. Die Operationsdauer betrug 230 min, der Blutverlust betrug 153 ml. Die durchschnittliche koronale Skoliosekorrektur betrug 52%. Einen signifikanten Einfluss auf die sagittalen Parameter gab es nicht. Die Revisionsrate betrug 18,9%. Eine Bewertung der analysierten Studien mithilfe des Coleman Methodology Scores ergab eine unzureichende Aussagekraft. Somit kann basierend auf dieser Analyse noch keine allgemeine Behandlungsempfehlung für oder gegen das VBT definiert werden.

Objective.To analyze results of open vertebroplasty for aggressive hemangioma of the cervical spine.Material and Methods. Surgical treatment was performed in 12 patients with aggressive hemangioma of the cervical spine. Vertebroplasty was performed through an open anterolateral approach under the control of an image intensifier.Results. Pain intensity was 7.0 ± 1.0 on VAS before surgery and 1.8 ± 1.2 immediately after surgery. Neck disability index (NDI) was 17.5 ± 6.5 before surgery and 4.3 ± 1.7 after surgery. One month after surgery VAS and NDI scores were 0. There were no complications in the postoperative period. A control study visualized from 82 % to 98 % completeness of filling the bone defect with polymethyl methacrylate. Bone composite migration outside the vertebral body was not detected in any of the operated patients. Control images taken 6 and 12 months after surgical treatment did not reveal continued tumor growth and signs of any osteonecrotic processes in bone tissue as a response to PMMA bone cement in any case.Conclusion. Despite the widespread and rather long period of using vertebroplasty, the issues of the choice of approaches when performing it on the cervical spine are still debatable. In order to reduce the risk of iatrogenic complications in cervical vertebroplasty, the open approach can be used which increases the treatment effectiveness.

Anterior vertebral body tether (AVBT) is a nonfusion surgical procedure for correction of scoliosis in skeletally immature individuals. With US Food and Drug Administration approval in 2019, AVBT technology is spreading and early to midterm reports are being published. Early clinical reports are promising while precise indications, outcomes, complication profiles, and best practices are being established. Patients who are skeletally immature and wish to avoid a fusion surgery may benefit from this procedure. This article highlights the translational science foundation, early to midterm clinical reports, and future directions for this growing technique in pediatric spinal deformity surgery.

Objective Treatment of lumbosacral tuberculosis is still controversial. In our study, we assessed the efficacy and feasibility of single-stage posterior debridement, interbody fusion using a structural autograft combined with a titanium mesh cage, and posterior instrumentation for the treatment of lumbosacral tuberculosis with significant vertebral body loss. Methods From May 2011 to June 2018, 15 patients with lumbosacral tuberculosis with significant vertebral body loss had undergone single-stage posterior debridement, interbody fusion using a structural autograft combined with a titanium mesh cage, and posterior instrumentation. The pre- and postoperative lumbosacral angle, visual analog scale score, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and neurological status were assessed. Results Surgery was successful for all patients, and no patient experienced tuberculosis recurrence during an average follow-up period of 27.3 months (range, 12–60 months). After surgery, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein for all patients had returned to normal within 3 months. At the final follow-up examination, the neurological status had improved in all patients who had had neurological deficits preoperatively. The mean preoperative lumbosacral angle was 12.6° (range, 6.7°–17.9°), and had increased to 27.7° (range, 24.3°–34.6°) after surgery. The average lumbosacral angle was 26.4° (range, 22.1°–32.3°), with an average loss of 1.4° (range, 0.6°–2.3°) at the final follow-up visit. Conclusions The combination of single-stage posterior debridement, interbody fusion using structural autografts with a titanium mesh cage, and posterior instrumentation is an effective and safe option for the treatment of lumbosacral tuberculosis with significant vertebral body loss.

Objective Managing retraction of the lumbar plexus is critical to safely perform lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) via the transpsoas approach. Occasionally, a transitional psoas is encountered at L4/5 and has been postulated to be a contraindication to transpsoas LLIF. A case series of patients with transitional psoas who underwent L4/5 LLIFs is presented. Methods This retrospective review assessed 79 consecutive patients who underwent L4/5 LLIF during a 24-month period. Preoperative imaging was reviewed, and patients were classified into 2 groups: normal psoas or transitional psoas. Intraoperative features and outcomes were compared between groups. Results Seventy-nine patients underwent L4/5 LLIFs, of whom 23 had transitional psoas anatomy and 56 had normal psoas anatomy. Among patients with transitional psoas, the center of the psoas was a mean (range) of 11.2 (5.2–26.6) mm in front of the center of the vertebral body compared with 2.0 (0–4) mm in the normal psoas group. The mean (range) retraction time was similar between groups (10.8 [6.7–14.9] minutes in the transitional psoas group vs. 11.0 [7.8–15.0] minutes in the normal psoas group). No permanent motor injuries occurred in either group, and no differences in length of stay or preoperative or postoperative Oswestry Disability Index scores were found between the groups. The protocol for L4/5 LLIF in patients with transitional psoas anatomy is described. Conclusions Transitional psoas anatomy is frequently encountered in surgical candidates for L4/5 LLIF. Through careful identification of the lumbar plexus and judicious retraction, the transpsoas LLIF can safely be performed in these patients.

Purpose: Traumatic vertebral injuries have a prevalence of 4-5% at level I centers. Studies have demonstrated that isolated thoracolumbar transverse process fractures (iTPF) rarely require brace or surgical interventions. We hypothesized that similarly isolated thoracolumbar spinous process fractures (iSPF) would have less need for bracing and operative interventions than SPFs with associated vertebral body (VB) fractures (SPF+VB). We performed a similar analysis for iTPF compared to transverse process fractures associated with VB injury (TPF+VB). Methods: In this single-center, retrospective study from 2012 to 2016, patients were classified into iSPF, SPF+VB, iTPF, and TPF+VB groups. Data including the fracture pattern, neurologic deficits, and operative intervention were obtained. The primary outcome studied was the need for bracing and/or surgery. A statistical analysis was conducted. Results: Of 98 patients with spinous process fractures, 21 had iSPF and 77 had SPF+ VB. No iSPF patients underwent surgery, whereas 24 (31.17%) SPF+VB patients did undergo surgery (p=0.012). In the iSPF group, three patients (15%) received braces only for comfort, whereas 37 (48.68%) of the SPF+VB group required bracing (p=0.058). Of 474 patients with transverse process fractures, 335 had iTPF and 139 had TPF+VB. No iTPF patients underwent surgery, whereas 28 (20.14%) TPF+VB patients did (p≤ 0.001). Of the iTPF patients, six (1.86%) were recommended to receive braces only for comfort, while 68 (50.75%) of the TPF+VB patients required bracing (p

Purpose The aim of this study was to give a systematic overview over the rate and location of concomitant injuries, the probability of suffering from neurological deficits, and to give evidence of the timing of surgery in severely injured patients with unstable thoracic vertebral body fractures. Methods This review is based on articles retrieved by a systematic search in the PubMed and Web of Science database for publications up to November 2020 dealing with unstable fractures of the mid-thoracic spine. Results Altogether, 1109 articles were retrieved from the literature search. A total of 1095 articles were excluded. Thus, 16 remaining original articles were included in this systematic review depicting the topics timing of surgery in polytraumatized patients, outcome neurologic deficits, and impact of concomitant injuries. The overall level of evidence of the vast majority of studies is low. Conclusion The evidence of the available literature is low. The cited studies reveal that thoracic spinal fractures are associated with a high number of neurological deficits and concomitant injuries, particularly of the thoracic cage and the lung. Thereby, diagnostic algorithm should include computer tomography of the whole thoracic cage if there is any clinical sign of concomitant injuries. Patients with incomplete neurologic deficits benefit from early surgery consisting of decompression and long-segmental stabilization.

The vertebral artery (VA) usually enters the transverse foramen at the C6 level. Thus, surgeons prefer to insert pedicle screws (PSs) at C7, but this does not eliminate the risk of VA injury. We aimed to clarify anatomical features of the VA V1 segment at the C7 pedicle level, based on computed tomographic angiography (CTA) of 81 consecutive patients.We examined the course of the VA V1 segment on axial CTA images. VA position was classified according to its alignment with the anterior (A), middle (M), or posterior (P) third of the C7 vertebral body at the pedicle level. We also assessed the prevalence of hypoplastic VA (HVA). We measured the distance (VED) from the optimum C7 PS entry point (Ep) to the center of the VA. We also measured the angles formed by the vertebral midline and a line from the inner edge of the VA to the Ep (the VEA), and by the vertebral midline and a line from the inner edge of the pedicle to the Ep (the PEA).The variant location of the VA to the C7 vertebra was A in 13 courses (8.1%), M in 123 (76.9%), and P in 20 (12.5%). HVA was present in the contralateral side in 7 of 20 courses (35%) in the P group, and in 8 of 127 courses (6.3%) in the M group (p 0.05). The mean VED was 20.2 mm, the mean VEA 6.9°, and the mean PEA angle was 36.3°.The 20 VA courses in the P group (12.5% of the total VA courses) were relatively close to the C7 Ep. HVA was present contralateral to the VA in 7 of 20 courses in the P group. CTA should be considered before proceeding with, even if, C7 PS instrumentation, to avoid unexpected pitfall.

Optimal catheter tip position of a totally implantable venous access port (TIVAP) is important to maintain its function and to avoid severe complications. In this study, we aimed to assess the reliability of a modified surface measurement method to determine optimal tip position of a TIVAP catheter inserted through the right subclavian vein.Clinical and radiologic information of 105 patients who underwent TIVAP implantation through the right subclavian vein was collected retrospectively. The length of the implanted catheter was determined by a modified surface measurement method, as follows. The distance from the puncture point (point A) to the middle point of the sternal notch (point B), then from the middle point of the sternal notch (point B) to the middle point of Louis angle (point C) was added up. The equation for the catheter length is given by catheter length (cm) = AB + BC + 3. Postprocedure plain chest radiography (CXR) and enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) were used to check the catheter tip position and to calculate optimal position rate. Distance from the carina to the catheter tip and the length of the vertebral body unit were measured on both CXR and CT. Distances from carina to caval-atrial junction (CAJ) and from catheter tip to CAJ were measured on CT.Mean length of the implanted catheter of all patients was 17.0 ± 0.7 cm (male vs female, 17.3 ± 0.5 cm vs 16.7 ± 0.7 cm; P .001). On CXR, a catheter tip located within 2.4 vertebral body units below the carina was identified as the optimal position, and the optimal position rate was 97.1% (102/105 cases). On CT, two definitions of optimal position were used: within 2 cm above or below the CAJ and within 2 cm above or at the CAJ; the optimal position rate was 92.4% (97/105 cases) and 78.1% (82/105 cases), respectively. Median follow-up time was 9.4 months. During the follow-up, no severe cardiac complication was recorded.The modified surface measurement had high reliability in determining the optimal catheter length to accurately place the tip in the superior vena cava near the CAJ.

Kyphoplasty (KP) with intravertebral reduction devices (IRD) was reported to be associated with better radiological outcomes than KP with balloons (BK) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). However, the mechanical factors that contribute to the radiological benefits of IRDs require further investigation. To probe the mechanical factors, this retrospective matched cohort study was designed, including the older patients with painful OVCFs and treated with KP. We compared the clinical and radiological outcomes between KP with an IRD and BK, where vertebral body height and kyphotic angle of the cemented vertebrae were measured pre- and postoperatively; clinical outcomes were collected by telephone interviews. The restoration and maintenance ratio suggested that IRDs were associated with favorable effects long-term wise in anterior to middle vertebral body and kyphosis than BK in patients. The gathered results concluded the radiological benefits of IRD regarding both its efficient restoration and maintenance in vertebrae.

Anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is postulated to preserve motion compared with traditional posterior spinal fusion (PSF), but few studies exist to date. We used a validated computerized 3D model to compare trunk motion between patients treated with PSF and AVBT, and analyzed trunk motion in relation to the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV).This was a single-center retrospective review of a consecutive series of skeletally immature patients with AIS who underwent motion analysis prior to PSF (n = 47) or AVBT (n = 65) and 2 years postoperatively. Patients were divided into 4 groups on the basis of the LIV (≤L1, L2, L3, L4). Computerized 3D kinematic evaluations included thoracic and lumbar flexion, extension, side-bending, and rotation. Patient outcomes were assessed using the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 questionnaire.The LIV was ≤L1 in 48 patients treated with AVBT and 23 treated with PSF, L2 in 4 AVBT and 8 PSF patients, L3 in 10 AVBT and 8 PSF patients, and L4 in 3 AVBT and 8 PSF patients. PSF patients had a significant loss of motion in all 4 directions at 2 years postoperatively (e.g., flexion loss was 11° for ≤L1 to 30° for L4; p0.001). This equated to a 7° loss of trunk flexion per additional LIV level included in the fusion. AVBT patients only demonstrated loss of flexion and side-bending at 2 years postoperatively (e.g., flexion loss of 11° for L1 to 17° for L4; p0.001). Preoperative curve size and flexibility did not have any significant impact on differences in trunk motion between AVBT and PSF. SRS-22 scores were predominantly similar for AVBT versus PSF preoperatively and at 2 years postoperatively.Patients treated with AVBT experienced predominantly less motion loss compared with PSF patients at 2 years postoperatively. Patients treated with PSF demonstrated loss of motion in all planes that increased with each additional LIV from ≤L1 to L4, with 7° loss of flexion per additional LIV. However, the differences in total trunk motions were relatively modest for PSF and AVBT with an LIV of ≤L1. Preoperative curve magnitude and flexibility had no significant impact on trunk motion in either group. SRS-22 scores were similar for both groups at 2 years postoperatively.Therapeutic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.