Inequities in air pollution on stroke mortality among Older Americans: a U.S. nationwide analysis.

Background: Air pollution is a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including stroke. This study examines the impact of county-level air pollution on ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke mortality among U.S. individuals aged 65 and older, emphasizing racial and socioeconomic disparities. Methods: Using data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Interactive Atlas of Heart Disease and Stroke, we analyzed county-level ischemic stroke mortality rates for older residents between 2016 and 2020. The data on air pollution at the county level, specifically particulate matter (PM2.5) levels, were obtained from the CDC. We applied multivariable linear and logistic regression models to examine the association between PM2.5 levels and stroke mortality, as well as the probability of meeting the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) air quality standards. Results: County-level analysis revealed a significant correlation (R = 0.68, R2 = 0.48, p < 0.001) between PM2.5 levels and overall stroke mortality. For every 1 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5, there was an increase of 1.89 ischemic stroke deaths per 100,000 residents. Racial and socioeconomic disparities were evident. Counties with predominantly Black populations exhibited a stark disparity, with each 1 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 correlating with a significant rise in mortality, amounting to 5.81 additional deaths per 100,000 residents. Persistently poor counties displayed vulnerability, experiencing a 4.05 increase in ischemic stroke deaths per 100,000 residents for every 1 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 levels. Conversely, in counties with a White majority and counties without a persistent state of poverty, the associated increases in stroke mortality per 100,000 residents for every 1 µg/m3 rise in county-level PM2.5 were 1.85 and 1.60, respectively. Counties with a majority of Black residents were over twice as likely to be non-compliant with EPA air quality standards compared to predominantly White counties (aOR 2.36 95% CI: 1.27-4.38, p = 0.006). Conclusion: This study underscores the significant impact of county-level air pollution, particularly PM2.5, on ischemic stroke mortality among older U.S. residents. Our findings indicate that counties with predominantly Black populations and those experiencing persistent poverty not only suffer from higher mortality rates but also are more likely to be non-compliant with EPA air quality standards. Targeted interventions and policies are urgently needed to reduce air pollution in these vulnerable communities and promote equitable public health outcomes.

The Association Between Experienced Discrimination and Pain in the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between experienced discrimination and its effects on pain interference and management among racial disparities is not well explored. This research investigated these associations among Black and White U.S. adults. METHODS: The analysis involved 9369 Black and White adults in the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS), assessing experiences of discrimination, pain interference (SF-12), and pain treatment, incorporating factors like demographics, comorbidities, and stress. RESULTS: Black participants experiencing moderate discrimination were found to have a 41% increased likelihood of pain interference (aOR 1.41, 95% CI 1.02-1.95), similaritythose facing high levels of discrimination also showed a 41% increase (aOR 1.41, 95% CI 1.06-1.86) compared to those without such experiences. White individuals reporting moderate discrimination also faced a heightened risk, with a 21% greater chance of pain interference (aOR 1.21, 95% CI 1.01-1.45). Notably, the presence of moderate discrimination among Black participants correlated with a 12% reduced probability of receiving pain treatment (aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.56-1.37). Furthermore, Black, and White individuals who reported discrimination when seeking employment had a 33% (aOR 0.67, 95% CI 0.45-0.98) and 32% (aOR 0.68, 95% CI 0.48-0.96) lower likelihood, respectively, of receiving treated pain. CONCLUSION: The study elucidates how discrimination exacerbates pain interference and restricts access to treatment, affecting Black and White individuals differently. These findings underscore an urgent need for strategies to counteract discrimination's negative effects on healthcare outcomes. Addressing these disparities is crucial for advancing health equity and improving the overall quality of care.

Advancing diversity in spine surgery: the critical role of professional societies and foundations.

This manuscript examines the challenges and initiatives within organizations associated with spine surgery to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), focusing on the systemic barriers that hinder the representation of women and underrepresented in medicine (URiM) minorities. Highlighting the contributions of pioneering individuals who overcame racial and gender discrimination to forge paths in these fields, it stresses the importance of professional societies and foundations in promoting DEI. Despite advancements, legal challenges and recent legislation in various states threaten to undermine DEI efforts, presenting a critical moment for organizations to reassess and reinforce their strategies. By detailing the roles of specific professional societies, foundations, and initiatives like the American Society of Black Neurosurgeons and Nth Dimensions, the manuscript underscores the necessity of targeted actions to ensure the progress toward a more inclusive and equitable spine surgery community.

The impact of historical redlining on neurosurgeon distribution and reimbursement in modern neighborhoods.

Background: This study examines the lasting impact of historical redlining on contemporary neurosurgical care access, highlighting the need for equitable healthcare in historically marginalized communities. Objective: To investigate how redlining affects neurosurgeon distribution and reimbursement in U.S. neighborhoods, analyzing implications for healthcare access. Methods: An observational study was conducted using data from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National File, Home Owner's Loan Corporation (HOLC) neighborhood grades, and demographic data to evaluate neurosurgical representation across 91 U.S. cities, categorized by HOLC Grades (A, B, C, D) and gentrification status. Results: Of the 257 neighborhoods, Grade A, B, C, and D neighborhoods comprised 5.40%, 18.80%, 45.8%, and 30.0% of the sample, respectively. Grade A, B, and C neighborhoods had more White and Asian residents and less Black residents compared to Grade D neighborhoods (p < 0.001). HOLC Grade A (OR = 4.37, 95%CI: 2.08, 9.16, p < 0.001), B (OR = 1.99, 95%CI: 1.18, 3.38, p = 0.011), and C (OR = 2.37, 95%CI: 1.57, 3.59, p < 0.001) neighborhoods were associated with a higher representation of neurosurgeons compared to Grade D neighborhoods. Reimbursement disparities were also apparent: neurosurgeons practicing in HOLC Grade D neighborhoods received significantly lower reimbursements than those in Grade A neighborhoods ($109,163.77 vs. $142,999.88, p < 0.001), Grade B neighborhoods ($109,163.77 vs. $131,459.02, p < 0.001), and Grade C neighborhoods ($109,163.77 vs. $129,070.733, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Historical redlining continues to shape access to highly specialized healthcare such as neurosurgery. Efforts to address these disparities must consider historical context and strive to achieve more equitable access to specialized care.

Association of geographical disparities and segregation in regional treatment facilities for Black patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in the United States.

Background and objectives: This study investigates geographic disparities in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) care for Black patients and aims to explore the association with segregation in treatment facilities. Understanding these dynamics can guide efforts to improve healthcare outcomes for marginalized populations. Methods: This cohort study evaluated regional differences in segregation for Black patients with aSAH and the association with geographic variations in disparities from 2016 to 2020. The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried for admission data on aSAH. Black patients were compared to White patients. Segregation in treatment facilities was calculated using the dissimilarity (D) index. Using multivariable logistic regression models, the regional disparities in aSAH treatment, functional outcomes, mortality, and end-of-life care between Black and White patients and the association of geographical segregation in treatment facilities was assessed. Results: 142,285 Black and White patients were diagnosed with aSAH from 2016 to 2020. The Pacific division (D index = 0.55) had the greatest degree of segregation in treatment facilities, while the South Atlantic (D index = 0.39) had the lowest. Compared to lower segregation, regions with higher levels of segregation (global F test p < 0.001) were associated a lower likelihood of mortality (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.82-1.00, p = 0.044 vs. OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68-0.83, p < 0. 001) (p = 0.049), greater likelihood of tracheostomy tube placement (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.22-1.73, p < 0.001 vs. OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.59-2.21, p < 0.001) (p < 0. 001), and lower likelihood of receiving palliative care (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.76-0.93, p < 0.001 vs. OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.59-0.77, p < 0.001) (p = 0.029). Conclusion: This study demonstrates regional differences in disparities for Black patients with aSAH, particularly in end-of-life care, with varying levels of segregation in regional treatment facilities playing an associated role. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and policy changes to address systemic healthcare inequities, reduce segregation, and ensure equitable access to high-quality care for all patients.

The Role of County-Level Persistent Poverty in Stroke Mortality in the USA.

Stroke is a major health concern in the USA, disproportionately affecting socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. This study investigates the link between persistent poverty and stroke mortality rates in residents aged 65 and above, positing that sustained economic challenges at the county level correlate with an increase in stroke-related deaths. Persistent poverty refers to a long-term state where a significant portion of a population lives below the poverty threshold for an extended period, typically measured over several decades. It captures the chronic nature of economic hardship faced by a community across multiple generations. Utilizing data from the CDC Wonder database and the American Community Survey, we conducted a comprehensive analysis across US counties, differentiating them by persistent poverty status. Our results indicate a statistically significant link between persistent poverty and increased mortality from ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes; counties afflicted by long-standing poverty were associated with an additional 33.49 ischemic and 8.16 hemorrhagic stroke deaths per 100,000 residents annually compared to their wealthier counterparts. These disparities persisted when controlling for known stroke risk factors and other socioeconomic variables. These results highlight the need for targeted public health strategies and interventions to address the disparities in stroke mortality rates and the broader implications for healthcare equity. The study underscores the vital role of socioeconomic context in health outcomes and the urgency of addressing long-term poverty as a key determinant of public health.

Race and socioeconomic disparities in mortality and end-of-life care following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

BACKGROUND: This study explores racial and socioeconomic disparities in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) care, highlighting the impact on treatment and outcomes. The study aims to shed light on inequities and inform strategies for reducing disparities in healthcare delivery. METHODS: In this cohort study the National Inpatient Sample database was queried for patient admissions with ruptured aSAH from 2016 to 2020. Multivariable analyses were performed estimating the impact of socioeconomic status and race on rates of acute treatment, functional outcomes, mortality, receipt of life-sustaining interventions (mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, and blood transfusions), and end-of-life care (palliative care and do not resuscitate). RESULTS: A total of 181 530 patients were included. Minority patients were more likely to undergo treatment (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.22, P<0.001) and were less likely to die (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.84 to 0.95, P<0.001) than White patients. However, they were also more likely to have a tracheostomy (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.33 to 1.62, P<0.001) and gastrostomy tube placement (OR 1.43, 95%CI 1.32 to 1.54, P<0.001), while receiving less palliative care (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.80, P<0.001). This trend persisted when comparing minority patients from wealthier backgrounds with White patients from poorer backgrounds for treatment (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.21, P=0.046), mortality (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.89, P<0.001), tracheostomy tube (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.48, P<0.001), gastrostomy tube (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.52, P<0.001), and palliative care (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.84, P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with White patients, minority patients with aSAH are more likely to undergo acute treatment and have lower mortality, yet receive more life-sustaining interventions and less palliation, even in higher socioeconomic classes. Addressing these disparities is imperative to ensure equitable access to optimal care and improve outcomes for all patients regardless of race or class.

Racial and gender disparities in traumatic brain injury clinical trial enrollment.

OBJECTIVE: Despite the increasing number of women and racial/ethnic minorities sustaining traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), they are underrepresented in TBI clinical trials. This study aimed to evaluate gender and racial diversity in enrolled cohorts of TBI clinical trials to identify trends and predictors of increased disparity over time. METHODS: The authors reviewed TBI clinical trials with reported results registered on the website ClinicalTrials.gov between 2008 and 2022. The studies were assessed for the proportion of women and racial/ethnic minorities enrolled as well as their reporting of race- and gender-specific characteristics such as gender ratio (GR) and Racial Diversity Index (RDI). Further study parameters, including year and duration, phase, trial design, type of funding, and trial completion, were also included. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-five clinical trials met inclusion criteria, of which 65 and 134 reported race and gender, respectively. Twenty-five trials were found to have existing racial disparity (RDI < 1). Comparatively, industry-funded trials had a 26% greater likelihood of racial disparities (p = 0.026), whereas federally funded trials were 30% less likely to demonstrate racial disparities (p = 0.031). Sixty-six trials had gender disparities (GR < 0.4) present, with federally funded trials showing 37.1% greater rates of gender disparity (p < 0.001, adjusted OR 5.47, 95% CI 2.26-14.25). The impact of funding source on race and gender remained significant despite adjusting for other covariates in the multivariate analyses. Racial disparity was negatively correlated with trial completion rate (p < 0.001). Disparities were not found to improve over the 14-year time span. CONCLUSIONS: Racial and gender disparities in TBI clinical trial enrollment persist, and the lack of diversity may lead to biased evidence-based medicine. Efforts should be made to increase the representation of women and racial/ethnic minorities in TBI clinical trials to ensure equitable access to effective treatments for all populations.

Racial Disparities in Employment Status After Moderate/Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries in Southeast Michigan.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the progress made in recent decades by assessing the employment rates of Black and non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients after traumatic brain injury (TBI), controlling for pre-TBI employment status and education status. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis in a cohort of patients treated in Southeast Michigan at major trauma centers in more recent years (February 2010 to December 2019). SETTING: Southeastern Michigan Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS): 1 of 16 TBIMSs across the United States. PARTICIPANTS: NHW (n=81) and Black (n=188) patients with moderate/severe TBI (N=269). INTERVENTION: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Employment status, which is separated into 2 categories: student plus competitive employment and noncompetitive employment. RESULTS: In 269 patients, NHW patients had more severe initial TBI, measured by percentage brain computed tomography with compression causing >5-mm midline shift (P<.001). Controlling for pre-TBI employment status, we found NHW participants who were students or had competitive employment prior to TBI had higher rates of competitive employment at 2-year (P=.03) follow-up. Controlling for pre-TBI education status, we found no difference in competitive and noncompetitive employment rates between NHW and Black participants at all follow-up years. CONCLUSIONS: Black patients who were students or had competitive employment before TBI experience worse employment outcomes than their NHW counterparts after TBI at 2 years post TBI. Further research is needed to understand better the factors driving these disparities and how social determinants of health affect these racial differences after TBI.

Predictors of poor clinical outcome in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy undergoing cervical laminectomy and fusion.

BACKGROUND: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a common degenerative disease that arises from spinal cord compression and injury. Laminectomy with posterior spinal fusion (LPSF) is one of the most common approaches used to treat patients with CSM. The present study aimed to evaluate predictors of poor clinical outcome in patients with CSM undergoing LPSF. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 157 patients with CSM who underwent LPSF at our center between April 2014 and June 2019. The neurological outcome was assessed using the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) scale before the surgery and at the last follow-up visit. Based on the clinical outcomes, all patients were divided into two groups [the good group (recovery rates ≥ 75%) and the poor group (recovery rates < 75%)]. The following suggested variables as potential predictors for the poor clinical outcome were compared between the two groups:age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking, diabetes, number of laminectomy levels, presence of signal changes in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), duration of symptoms, preoperative JOA scale, preoperative Pavlov ratio, preoperative cervical curvature, and preoperative cervical range of motion (ROM). RESULTS: There were 86 males (54.8%) and 71 females (45.2%) with the mean follow-up time of 24.96 ± 1.67 months. Overall, 114 patients (72.6%) had a good clinical outcome. However, 43 subjects (27.4%) failed to achieve a good outcome. According to the binary logistic regression analysis, age (odds ratio [OR], 2.14; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.87-2.63; P = 0.014) and preoperative JOA scale (OR, 3.73; 95% CI 2.96-4.87; p < 0.001) were independent predictors of poor clinical outcome. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study showed that age and preoperative JOA scale were predictors of poor clinical outcome in patients with CSM undergoing LPSF. These findings will be of great value in preoperative counseling and management of postoperative expectations.

Radiopathologic predictors of recurrence in patients with a gross totally resected atypical meningioma.

BACKGROUND: Atypical meningiomas (AM) comprise a heterogeneous conglomeration of meningiomas with higher local recurrence rates than their benign counterparts. Although adjuvant therapy following subtotal resection is the standard, the use of adjuvant therapy following gross total resection (GTR) remains controversial. This study seeks to add to the literature by identifying radiopathologic predictors of recurrence in patients with a GTR AM and better identify those patients who may benefit from adjuvant therapy. METHODS: A total of 103 consecutive patients who received gross total resection for AM at our center between Apr 2010 and Apr 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. Recurrence was defined as new enhancing masses on MRI without requiring biopsy confirmation. Cumulative incidence plots were used to estimate survival, and the log-rank test was used to assess differences between groups. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the effect of radiopathologic variables on the hazard of recurrence. RESULTS: Of the 103 patients included in this study, 68 (66.0%) were female, and the mean age was 51.1 ± 11.4. The median overall survival for patients following surgery was 71 months while the median progression-free survival was 64 months. Recurrence occurred in 36 (35.0%) patients. Factors correlated with AM recurrence following GTR included peritumoral edema (p = 0.005), necrosis (p < 0.001), mitotic rate greater than 7/10 high-power field (HPF) (p < 0.001), and Ki67 > 15% (p < 0.001). However, following Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, only mitotic rate greater than 7/10HPF (p = 0.018) and Ki67 > 15% (p = 0.035) were significantly associated with AM recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed high mitotic index (greater than 7/10 HPF) and Ki67 greater than 15% as independent predictors of recurrence in patients with a GTR AM. These findings could help stratify patients who may benefit from adjuvant therapy.Abbreviations: AM: Atypical meningiomas; GTR: gross total resection; HPF: high power field; STR: subtotal resection; RFS: recurrence-free survival.

The impact of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) on neurosurgical practice and training: a review article.

The 2019 coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has affected all of society at different levels. Similarly, COVID-19 has significantly impacted every medical field, including neurosurgery. By exposing scarcities in the healthcare industry and requiring the reallocation of available resources towards the priority setting and away from elective surgeries and outpatient visits, the pandemic posed new, unprecedented challenges to the medical community. Despite the redistribution of resources towards COVID-19 patients and away from elective surgeries, urgent and emergent surgeries for life-threatening conditions needed to be continued. The neurosurgical community, like other specialties not directly involved in the care of COVID-19 patients, initially struggled to balance the needs of COVID-19 patients with those of neurosurgical patients, residents, and researchers. Several articles describing the effect of COVID-19 on neurosurgical practice and training have been published throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This article aims to provide a focused review of the impact COVID-19 has had on neurosurgical practice and training as well as describe neurological manifestations of the disease.

Dynamics of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio can be associated with clinical outcomes of children with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: A retrospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been reported to be associated with clinical outcomes of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between the dynamics of NLR and clinical outcomes of pediatric patients with moderate to severe TBI. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the clinical data of a total of 374 pediatric patients with moder-ate to severe TBI who were treated in our department between May 2016 and May 2020. Clinical and laboratory data including the NLR upon admission and the NLR on hospital day four were collected. Poor clinical outcome was defined as Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) of 1-3. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the correlation between the dynamics of NLR and clinical outcome. RESULTS: Three hundred seventy-four pediatric patients (mean age 7.37 ± 3.11, 52.7% male) were evaluated. Based on the ROC curves, a value of 5 was determined as the NLR cut-off value. The corresponding cutoff value for delta NLR was 1. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (OR, 3.42; 95% CI: 1.88-5.28; P <0.001), the light reflex (OR, 1.79; 95% CI: 1.34- 2.84; P = 0.027), the Rotterdam CT score (OR, 2.71; 95% CI: 1.72-4.13; P = 0.021), and delta NLR (OR, 1.71; 95% CI: 1.13- 2.52; P = 0.034) were identified as independent predictors for unfavorable outcomes in multivariable logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The result of the present study suggest that delta NLR could be a predictor of poor clinical outcome of pediatrics with moderate to severe TBI. This cost-effective and easily available biomarker could be used to predict clinical outcomes in these patients.

The significant impact of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on in-hospital mortality of elderly patients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: A retrospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the main causes of death and disability among the elderly patient population. This study aimed to assess the predictors of in-hospital mortality of elderly patients with moderate to severe TBI who presented during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. METHODS: In this retrospective analytical study, all elderly patients with moderate to severe TBI who were referred to our center between March 2nd, 2020 to August 1st, 2020 were investigated and compared against the TBI patients receiving treatment during the same time period within the year 2019. Patients were followed until discharge from the hospital or death. The demographic, clinical, radiological, and laboratory test data were evaluated. Data were analyzed using SPSS-21 software. FINDINGS: In this study, 359 elderly patients were evaluated (n = 162, Post-COVID-19). Fifty-four patients of the cohort had COVID-19 disease with a mortality rate was 33.3%. The patients with COVID-19 were 5.45 times more likely to expire before discharge (P < 0.001) than the TBI patients who were not COVID-19 positive. Other variables such as hypotension (OR, 4.57P < 0.001), hyperglycemia (OR, 2.39, P = 0.002), and use of anticoagulant drugs (OR, 2.41P = 0.001) were also associated with in-hospital death.According to the binary logistic regression analysis Age (OR, 1.72; 95% CI: 1.26-2.18; P = 0.033), Coronavirus infection (OR, 2.21; 95% CI: 1.83-2.92; P = 0.011) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (OR, 3.11; 95% CI: 2.12-4.53; P < 0.001) were independent risk factors correlated with increased risk of in-hospital mortality of elderly patients with moderate to severe TBI. CONCLUSION: Our results showed that Coronavirus infection could increase the risk of in-hospital mortality of elderly patients with moderate to severe TBI significantly.

Biomechanical analysis of motion following sacroiliac joint fusion using lateral sacroiliac screws with or without lumbosacral instrumented fusion.

BACKGROUND: Sacroiliac joint hypermobility or aberrant mechanics may be a source of pain. The purpose of this study was to assess sacroiliac joint range of motion after simulated adjacent lumbosacral instrumented fusion, with or without sacroiliac joint fusion, with lateral sacroiliac screws. METHODS: In this in vitro biomechanical study, seven cadaveric specimens were tested on a six-degrees-of-freedom machine under load control. Left posterior sacroiliac joint ligaments were severed to maximize joint range of motion. Influence of lumbosacral instrumentation on sacroiliac joint motion, with or without fixation, was studied. FINDINGS: During flexion-extension in the setting of posterior sacroiliac joint injury and L5-S1 fixation, sacroiliac joint range of motion increased to 195% of intact. After fixation with lateral sacroiliac screws, average range of motion reduced to 144% of intact motion. Sacroiliac joint screws thus partially stabilized the joint and reduced motion. Use of 6 bilateral sacroiliac joint screws with L5-S1 screw and rod fixation in lateral bending and axial rotation yielded the greatest reduction in range of motion. Without lumbosacral fixation, baseline motion of the sacroiliac joint was reduced, and sacroiliac joint screw alone, using either 2, 3, or 6 screws, was able to restore motion at or below the level of an intact joint. INTERPRETATION: Sacroiliac joint ligament injury with existing lumbosacral fixation doubled sacroiliac joint range of motion, but thereafter, fixation with lateral sacroiliac screws decreased range of motion of the injured sacroiliac joint. Screw configuration played a minor role, but generally, 6 sacroiliac joint screws had the greatest motion reduction.

Outcomes of bilateral sacroiliac joint fusions and the importance of understanding potential coexisting lumbosacral pathology that might also require surgical treatment.

Only one study in the literature describes performing a bilateral sacroiliac joint fusion, and the results were poor. Many patients needing a bilateral sacroiliac joint fusion frequently have had previous lumbosacral surgeries and present with lumbosacral pain as well. This study reviews our results in consecutive patients having had a bilateral sacroiliac joint fusion over a five-year period. Fifteen patients had bilateral sacroiliac joint fusions with 13 having concurrent lumbosacral fusions. The modified posterior midline fascial splitting approach, first described by Belanger was utilized. Patients were followed for an average of 30.3 months. There were no infections, neurovascular injuries, lasting morbidity or deaths. One non-union of a sacroiliac joint (7%) occurred, which after revision was satisfactory. There was a statistically significant drop in pain (p=0.01488) using the VAS, and patient satisfaction rates were 86%. With all those patients saying they would have the surgery again for the same result. There was no significant increase in functionality. Patients needing bilateral sacroiliac joint fusions frequently fall into the "failed back" category, and it is important to evaluate both the sacroiliac joints and the lumbosacral spine for potential pain generators. This study shows that by treating all the pain generators in both areas there were significant decreases in pain, low complications, low re-operation rates, and high patient satisfaction scores. Overall functionality, however, was not positively affected.

Racial and ethnic disparities in the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases: importance to the practicing neurosurgeon.

OBJECTIVES: In various surgical procedures, evidence for racial/ethnic disparities has continued to grow in recent years. Our purpose was to review the current literature regarding racial/ethnic disparities in the United States in the surgical treatment and outcome of three different cerebrovascular disease entities: carotid stenosis, intracranial aneurysm, and cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM). METHODS: We conducted an electronic search of literature published between January 1, 1966 and December 10, 2005 using MEDLINE (OVID), EMBASE, CINAHL, and Science Citation Index (Web of Science), along with manual reference checking, resulting in 313 screened items. Main outcome measures examined were racial/ethnic differences in procedure utilization rates and perioperative stroke, death, and complications. RESULTS: Out of 3,624,581 articles indexed in MEDLINE pertaining to the treatment of these 3 cerebrovascular diseases, 141 (0.004%) articles pertained to minority groups and 33 (0.001%) articles met search criteria for inclusion in this review. Two additional articles were found in other searched databases. Carotid endarterectomy was the focus of 30 articles, and 5 articles pertained to craniotomy for treatment of intracranial aneurysms. No articles were found that examined racial differences in AVM treatment. Our systematic review found evidence of racial disparities in the surgical treatment of patients with carotid stenosis and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The data, however, is limited and confounded. CONCLUSION: Results of this comprehensive literature review suggest that racial disparities in cerebrovascular disease are understudied. Race-associated differences in neurosurgical outcomes must be documented and vigorously investigated to determine the basis of any observed differences and ensure that we are providing the best care possible to all of our patients.