Neurocritical care complications and interventions influence the outcome in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

BACKGROUND: This observational study was performed to show the impact of complications and interventions during neurocritical care on the outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). METHODS: We analyzed 203 cases treated for ruptured intracranial aneurysms, which were classified regarding clinical outcome after one year according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). We reviewed the data with reference to the occurrence of typical complications and interventions in neurocritical care units. RESULTS: Decompressive craniectomy (odds ratio 21.77 / 6.17 ; p < 0.0001 / p = 0.013), sepsis (odds ratio 14.67 / 6.08 ; p = 0.037 / 0.033) and hydrocephalus (odds ratio 3.71 / 6.46 ; p = 0.010 / 0.00095) were significant predictors for poor outcome and death after one year beside "World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies" (WFNS) grade (odds ratio 3.86 / 4.67 ; p < 0.0001 / p < 0.0001) and age (odds ratio 1.06 / 1.10 ; p = 0.0030 / p < 0.0001) in our multivariate analysis (binary logistic regression model). CONCLUSIONS: In summary, decompressive craniectomy, sepsis and hydrocephalus significantly influence the outcome and occurrence of death after aneurysmal SAH.

Contemporary Practices and Complications of Surgery for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in the United States.

BACKGROUND: Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) surgery is relatively rare and controversial, given the challenges in diagnosis as well as wide variation in symptomatic and functional recovery. Our aims were to measure trends in utilization of TOS surgery, complications, and mortality rates in a nationally representative cohort and compare higher versus lower volume centers. METHODS: The National Inpatient Sample was queried using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, codes for rib resection and scalenectomy paired with axillo-subclavian aneurysm (arterial [aTOS]), subclavian deep vein thrombosis (venous [vTOS]), or brachial plexus lesions (neurogenic [nTOS]). Basic descriptive statistics, nonparametric tests for trend, and multivariable hierarchical regression models with random intercept for center were used to compare outcomes for TOS types, trends over time, and higher and lower volume hospitals, respectively. RESULTS: There were 3,547 TOS operations (for an estimated 18,210 TOS operations nationally) performed between 2010 and 2015 (89.2% nTOS, 9.9% vTOS, and 0.9% aTOS) with annual case volume increasing significantly over time (P = 0.03). Higher volume centers (≥10 cases per year) represented 5.2% of hospitals and 37.0% of cases, and these centers achieved significantly lower overall major complication (defined as neurologic injury, arterial or venous injury, vascular graft complication, pneumothorax, hemorrhage/hematoma, or lymphatic leak) rates (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.71 [95% confidence interval 0.52-0.98]; P = 0.04], but no difference in neurologic complications such as brachial plexus injury (aOR 0.69 [0.20-2.43]; P = 0.56) or vascular injuries/graft complications (aOR 0.71 [0.0.33-1.54]; P = 0.39). Overall mortality was 0.6%, neurologic injury was rare (0.3%), and the proportion of patients experiencing complications decreased over time (P = 0.03). However, vTOS and aTOS had >2.5 times the odds of major complication compared with nTOS (OR 2.68 [1.88-3.82] and aOR 4.26 [1.78-10.17]; P < 0.001), and ∼10 times the odds of a vascular complication (aOR 10.37 [5.33-20.19] and aOR 12.93 [3.54-47.37]; P < 0.001], respectively. As the number of complications decreased, average hospital charges also significantly decreased over time (P < 0.001). Total hospital charges were on average higher when surgery was performed in lower volume centers (<10 cases per year) compared with higher volume centers (mean $65,634 [standard deviation 98,796] vs. $45,850 [59,285]; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The annual number of TOS operations has increased in the United States from 2010 to 2015, whereas complications and average hospital charges have decreased. Mortality and neurologic injury remain rare. Higher volume centers delivered higher value care: less or similar operative morbidity with lower total hospital charges.

Surgical Treatment of Vertebral Artery Stenosis: An Overlooked Surgery with Low Morbidity.

BACKGROUND: Vertebral artery (VA) stenosis as a cause of ischemic events and its surgical treatment is an overlooked subject. After reporting our initial results, the results of VA stenosis operations and the follow-up studies are analyzed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective, single-center study includes 43 symptomatic proximal VA stenosis patients between September 2012 and March 2019. The demographics and clinical data were obtained from the hospital records. Doppler ultrasonography and computed tomography angiography were used to establish the diagnosis and for follow-up. The surgical procedures were as follows: VA transposition in 30 (69.8%), VA bypass 8 (18.6%), saphenous vein interposition in VA in 4 (9.3%), and decompression of kinking in 1 (2.3%) patient. Eleven patients (25.5%) had concomitant carotid surgery. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the survival and patency rates. RESULTS: Most common symptoms were vertigo and loss of balance in 38 (88.4%) and 14 (32.6%) patients, respectively. Twenty-five patients were males (58.1%), and the average age was 64.6 ± 9.8 (50-90) years. The 30-day death, 30-day stroke, and 30-day death/stroke rates were 2.3%, 4.7%, and 7%, respectively. Ten patients (23.3%) had morbidities which were related to the intervention. Horner syndrome was found in 5 (11.6%) patients, and facial nerve injury was found in one (2.3%) patient. Three (7.1%) patients died during the follow-up period, and overall survival of the patients at 3 years was 91.4% ± 5.8%. Two (4.7%) patients had cerebrovascular events (CVEs) occurred during the follow-up. One- and three-year CVE-free survivals were 97.1% ± 2.9% and 90.1% ± 7.2%, respectively. Two patients (5.4%) had restenosis. One- and three-year patency of VA after procedure was 89.1% ± 7.4%. Thirty-seven (86%) patients had complete recovery of symptoms after surgery; 5 patients (11.6%) kept their preoperative symptoms in different levels. CONCLUSIONS: Vertebral artery surgery can be performed with acceptable mortality and morbidity rates. Restenosis-free, CVE-free, and overall survival rates are satisfactory.

Comparison of Perioperative Complications in Anterior Decompression With Fusion and Posterior Decompression With Fusion for Cervical Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament: Propensity Score Matching Analysis Using a Nation-Wide Inpatient Database.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective comparative study. OBJECTIVE: To compare the perioperative complications and costs of anterior decompression with fusion (ADF) and posterior decompression with fusion (PDF) for patients with cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Surgical treatment of cervical OPLL has a high risk of various complications. ADF and PDF are effective for the treatment of cervical OPLL; however, few studies have compared the two procedures in terms of the perioperative surgical complications. METHODS: Patients undergoing ADF and PDF for cervical OPLL from 2010 to 2016 were identified in a nation-wide inpatient database. We investigated systemic and local complications, length of hospital stay, costs for hospitalization, reoperation, and mortality. Propensity score was calculated from patients' characteristics and preoperative comorbidities, and one to one matching was performed. RESULTS: Propensity score-matching produced 854 pairs of patients who underwent ADF and PDF. The rate of at least one systemic complication was significantly higher in the ADF group (P = 0.004). The incidence rates of postoperative respiratory failure (P = 0.034) and dysphagia (P = 0.008) were significantly higher in the ADF group. The rates of pneumonia (P = 0.06) and hoarseness (P = 0.08) also tended to be higher in the ADF group. However, no difference was found in the mortality rate (P = 0.22). In the local complications, spinal fluid leakage was significantly higher in the ADF group (P < 0.001). However, blood transfusion rate was significantly higher in the PDF group (P = 0.001). Hospital stay was significantly longer in the PDF group (P < 0.001) and the cost for hospitalization was greater in the PDF group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated that perioperative complications, such as respiratory failure, dysphagia, and spinal fluid leakage, were more common in the ADF group. However, hospital stay was longer in the PDF group, and the cost for hospitalization was greater in the PDF group. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Transpedicular Vertebrectomy With Circumferential Spinal Cord Decompression and Reconstruction for Thoracic Spine Metastasis: A Consecutive Case Series.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. OBJECTIVE: To study the feasibility, outcomes, and complications of transpedicular vertebrectomy (TPV), and reconstruction for metastatic lesions to the thoracic spine. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Metastatic lesions to the thoracic spine may need surgical treatment requiring anterior-posterior decompression/stabilization. Anterior reconstruction may be performed using poly methyl meth acrylate (PMMA) cement or cages. Use of cement has been reported to be associated with complications. METHODS: From 2008 to 2016, consecutive cases (single surgeon) undergoing TPV for thoracic spine metastasis (T2-12) were included. Demographic, surgical, and clinical data were collected through chart review. MRI, CT, positron emission tomography images were used to identify extent of disease, epidural spinal cord compression (ESCC), and degree of vertebral body collapse. Hall-Wellner confidence band was used for the survival curve. RESULTS: Ninety six patients were studies with a median age 60 years. Most patients 56 (58%) presented with mechanical pain. 29% cases had lung metastasis. Single level TPV was performed in 73 patients (76%). Anterior reconstruction included PMMA in 78 patients (81.25%), and titanium cage in 18 patients (18.25%). Frankel grade improvement was seen in 16 cases (P = 0.013). ESCC improved by a median of 5.9 mm (P < 0.001). Kyphosis reduced by median of 7.5° (P < 0.001). VAS improved by median of seven (P < 0.001). Total 59 deaths were observed. The median survival time was estimated to be 6 months (95% CI: 5, 10). Surgical outcome and complication rates are similar between the two construct types. Correction of kyphosis was seen to be slightly better with the use of PMMA. Overall 29.16% cases developed complications (11.4% major). Two cases developed neurological deficit following epidural hematoma requiring surgery. One case had instrumentation failure from cement migration, needing revision. CONCLUSION: The result of our study shows significantly improved clinical and radiological outcomes for TPV for thoracic metastatic lesions. We also discuss some important steps for use of PMMA to avoid complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

Solid Organ Transplant Is Associated With Increased Morbidity and Mortality in Patients Undergoing One or Two-level Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective database review OBJECTIVE.: The aim of this study was to analyze the implications of solid organ transplant (SOT) on postoperative outcomes following elective one or two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Although SOTs have been associated with increased morbidity, postoperative outcomes in SOT recipients undergoing cervical spinal surgery are not well studied. METHODS: A retrospective database review of Medicare patients younger than 85 years who underwent an elective one to two-level ACDF from 2006-2013 was conducted. Following our exclusion criteria, patients were then divided into the following groups: those with a prior history of kidney, liver, heart or lung transplant (SOT group) and non-SOT patients. Both groups were compared for hospital length of stay, 90-day major medical complications, 90-day hospital readmission, 1-year surgical site infection (SSI), 1-year revision ACDF, and 1-year mortality. RESULTS: A total of 992 (0.5%) SOT recipients (1,144 organs) were identified out of 199,288 ACDF patients. SOT recipients had a significantly longer length of stay (2.32 vs. 5.22 days, p<0.001), higher rate of major medical complications (8.2% vs. 4.5%; OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.45-2.33, p<0.001) and hospital readmission (19.5% vs. 7.5%, OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.74-2.41, p<0.001). In addition, SOT patients had increased mortality within one year of surgery (5.8% vs. 1.3%; OR 3.01, 95% CI 2.26-3.94, p<0.001) compared to non-SOT patients. SOT was not independently associated with SSI (OR 1.25, 95% CI 0.85-1.75, p=0.230), and there was no significant difference in revision rate (0.9% vs. 0.5%; OR 1.54, 95% CI 0.73-2.82, p=0.202) between both groups. CONCLUSION: SOT is independently associated with longer hospital stay, increased rate of major medical complications, hospital readmission and mortality. Spine surgeons should be aware of the higher rates of morbidity and mortality in these patients and take it into consideration when developing patient-specific treatment plans. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Impact of Left Atrial Decompression on Patient Outcomes During Pediatric Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Case-Control Study.

Left heart distension during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) often necessitates decompression to facilitate myocardial recovery and prevent life-threatening complications. The objectives of this study were to compare clinical outcomes between patients who did and did not undergo left atrial (LA) decompression, quantify decompression efficacy, and identify risk factors for development of left heart distension. This was a single-center retrospective case-control study. Pediatric VA ECMO patients who underwent LA decompression from June 2004 to March 2016 were identified, and a control cohort of VA ECMO patients who did not undergo LA decompression were matched based on diagnosis, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and age. Among 194 VA ECMO cases, 21 (11%) underwent LA decompression. Compared to the control cohort, patients with decompression had longer hospital length of stay (60 ± 55 vs. 27 ± 23 days, p = 0.012), but similar in-hospital mortality (29% vs. 38%, p = 0.513). Decompression successfully decreased mean LA pressure (24 ± 11 to 14 ± 4 mmHg, p = 0.022) and LA:RA pressure gradient (10 ± 7 to 0 ± 1 mmHg, p = 0.011). No significant differences in early quantitative measures of cardiac function were observed between cases and controls to identify risk factors for left heart distension. Despite higher qualitative risk for impaired cardiac recovery, patients who underwent LA decompression had comparable outcomes to those who did not. Given that traditional quantitative measures of cardiac function are insufficient to predict development of eventual left heart distension, a combination of clinical history, radiographic findings, hemodynamic monitoring, and laboratory markers should be used during the evaluation and management of these patients.

Relationship Between Time to Left Atrial Decompression and Outcomes in Patients Receiving Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support: A Multicenter Pediatric Interventional Cardiology Early-Career Society Study.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the variation in timing of left atrial decompression and its association with clinical outcomes in pediatric patients supported with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation across a multicenter cohort. DESIGN: Multicenter retrospective study. SETTING: Eleven pediatric hospitals within the United States. PATIENTS: Patients less than 18 years on venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation who underwent left atrial decompression from 2004 to 2016. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A total of 137 patients (median age, 4.7 yr) were included. Cardiomyopathy was the most common diagnosis (47%). Cardiac arrest (39%) and low cardiac output (50%) were the most common extracorporeal membrane oxygenation indications. Median time to left atrial decompression was 6.2 hours (interquartile range, 3.8-17.2 hr) with the optimal cut-point of greater than or equal to 18 hours for late decompression determined by receiver operating characteristic curve. In univariate analysis, late decompression was associated with longer extracorporeal membrane oxygenation duration (median 8.5 vs 5 d; p = 0.02). In multivariable analysis taking into account clinical confounder and center effects, late decompression remained significantly associated with prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation duration (adjusted odds ratio, 4.4; p = 0.002). Late decompression was also associated with longer duration of mechanical ventilation (adjusted odds ratio, 4.8; p = 0.002). Timing of decompression was not associated with in-hospital survival (p = 0.36) or overall survival (p = 0.42) with median follow-up of 3.2 years. CONCLUSIONS: In this multicenter study of pediatric patients receiving venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, late left atrial decompression (≥ 18 hr) was associated with longer duration of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support and mechanical ventilation. Although no survival benefit was demonstrated, the known morbidities associated with prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use may justify a recommendation for early left atrial decompression.

Clinical outcomes and significant factors in the survival rate after decompression surgery for patients who were non-ambulatory due to spinal metastases.

BACKGROUND: The development of effective chemotherapy regimens and molecular targeting agents are improving the overall survival rates in patients with cancer. However, patients who are non-ambulatory due to metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC) may be assessed as unable to tolerate chemotherapy secondary to poor performance status. This means that the ambulatory status of patients with cancer might be significant for survival time. METHODS: We investigated the functional outcomes and factors influencing overall survival in 31 patients who were non-ambulatory due to MESCC and underwent decompression surgery. The functional outcome was determined by the Frankel grading system. RESULT: Twenty-one patients (68%) improved by at least 1 Frankel grade; 17 patients (55%) became ambulatory postoperatively. Most of postoperatively ambulatory patients could undergo postoperative chemotherapy (14/17, 82%). On the other hand, only a few postoperatively non-ambulatory patients could undergo postoperative chemotherapy (2/15, 13%). We observed a complication rate of 35.5% with specific complications including wound infection, pneumonia, and deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolus. The median survival duration was 7.0 months. Factors that significantly affected the overall survival in univariate analyses were revised Tokuhashi score (RTS) ≥ 4, postoperative chemotherapy, ambulatory status, and complications (RTS ≥ 4, P < 0.05; postoperative chemotherapy, P < 0.001; ambulatory status, P < 0.001; complications, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Decompression surgery for patients who are non-ambulatory due to MESCC directly contributes to functional outcomes and may indirectly contribute to overall survival. If non-ambulatory patients who are assessed as unable to tolerate chemotherapy due to poor performance status regain the ability to walk by decompression surgery, they will have a chance to receive postoperative chemotherapy, thereby increasing their chances of prolonging survival. However, postoperative complications may shorten their survival; therefore, we should carefully consider the surgical indications. RTS is useful for judging the surgical indication.

Steroid Use Associated With Increased Odds of 30-Day Mortality in Surgical Patients With Metastatic Spinal Tumors in the Setting of Disseminated Disease.

BACKGROUND: Steroid administration is part of a standard treatment regimen in metastatic spinal cord compression, though the appropriate dose, duration, efficacy, and risks remain controversial. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the risk of preoperative steroid use on 30-d mortality in surgical metastatic spinal tumors with dissemination disease using a large multicenter national database. METHODS: Adult patients who underwent surgical treatment for metastatic spine tumors between 2005 and 2014 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Demographic, preoperative risk factors, operative information, and postoperative events were extracted. Multivariate logistical regression modeling was used to investigate the association with preoperative steroid use with the outcome of interest, 30-d mortality. Other independent risk factors associated with 30-d mortality were also identified. RESULTS: Five hundred fifty-two patients underwent surgical treatment of spinal metastases with disseminated cancer present at time of surgery. Independent risk factors of 30-d mortality included prolonged steroid use (odds ratio [OR] 2.48, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22-5.04, P = .012), dependent functional status (OR 2.91, 95% CI: 1.68-5.04, P < .001), history of bleeding disorder (OR 2.80, 95% CI: 1.16-6.74, P = .021), history of smoking (OR 2.26, 95% CI: 1.11-4.61, P = .024), preoperative transfusions (OR 2.91, 95% CI: 1.02-8.29, P = .049), and preoperative infection/sepsis (OR 2.67, 95% CI: 1.18-6.08, P = .02). Our model demonstrates very strong predictive capabilities, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.7447. CONCLUSION: Steroid use is associated with a significant increased risk of 30-d mortality in surgical metastatic spine tumor patients with disseminated disease. These findings warrant further investigation in controlled experimental environments.

Predictive factors of survival in a surgical series of metastatic epidural spinal cord compression and complete external validation of 8 multivariate models of survival in a prospective North American multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: This study was designed to identify preoperative predictors of survival in surgically treated patients with metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC), to examine how these predictors are related to 8 prognostic models, and to perform the first full external validation of these models in accordance with the Transparent Reporting of a Multivariable Prediction Model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis (TRIPOD) statement. METHODS: One hundred forty-two surgically treated patients with MESCC were enrolled in a prospective, multicenter North American cohort study and were followed for 12 months or until death. Cox regression was used. Noncollinear predictors with < 10% missing data, with ≥ 10 events per stratum, and with P < .05 in a univariate analysis were tested through a backward stepwise selection. For the original and revised Tokuhashi prognostic scoring systems (PSSs), Tomita PSS, modified Bauer PSS, van der Linden PSS, Bartels model, Oswestry Spinal Risk Index, and Bollen PSS, this study examined calibration graphically, discrimination with Harrell c-statistics, and survival stratified by risk groups with the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. RESULTS: The following were significant in the univariate analysis: type of primary tumor, sex, organ metastasis, body mass index, preoperative radiotherapy to MESCC, physical component (PC) of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, version 2 (SF-36v2), and EuroQol 5-Dimension (EQ-5D) Questionnaire. Breast, prostate and thyroid primary tumor (HR: 2.9; P =.0005), presence of organ metastasis (hazard ratio (HR): 2.0; P = .005) and SF-36v2 PC (HR: 0.95; P < .0001) were associated with survival in multivariable analysis. Predicted prognoses poorly matched observed values on calibration plots; Bartels model calibration slope was 0.45. Bollen PSS (0.61; 95% CI: 0.58-0.64) and Bartels model (0.68; 95% CI: 0.65-0.71) had the lowest and highest c-statistics, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The primary tumor type (breast, prostate, or thyroid), an absence of organ metastasis, and a lower degree of physical disability are preoperative predictors of longer survival for surgical MESCC patients. These results are in keeping with current models. This full external validation of 8 prognostic PSSs or model of survival in surgical MESCC patients has revealed that calibration is poor, especially for long-term survivors, whereas discrimination is possibly helpful.

Risk Factors for Thirty-Day Morbidity and Mortality in Extradural Lumbar Spine Tumor Resection.

BACKGROUND: Epidural tumors in the lumbar spine represent a unique cohort of lesions with individual risks and challenges to resection. Knowledge of modifiable risk factors are important in minimizing postoperative complications. OBJECTIVE: To determine the risk factors for 30-day morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing extradural lumbar tumor resection. METHODS: A retrospective study of prospectively collected data using the American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program database was performed. Adults who underwent laminectomy for excision of lumbar spine tumors between 2011 and 2014 were included in the study. Demographics and medical comorbidities were collected, along with morbidities and mortalities within 30 postoperative days. A multivariate binary logistic analysis of these clinical variables was performed to determine covariates of morbidity and mortality. RESULTS: The database search yielded 300 patients, of whom 118 (39.3%) were female. Overall, complications within 30 days of surgery occurred in 102 (34%) patients. Significant risk factors for morbidity included preoperative anemia (P < 0.0001), the need for preoperative blood transfusion (P = 0.034), preoperative hypoalbuminemia (P = 0.002), American Society of Anesthesiologists score 3 or 4 (P = 0.0002), and operative time >4 hours (P < 0.0001). Thirty-day mortality occurred in 15 (5%) patients and was independently associated with preoperative anemia (odds ratio 3.4, 95% confidence interval 1.8-6.5) and operative time >4 hours (odds ratio 2.6, 95% confidence interval 1.1-6.0). CONCLUSIONS: Excision of epidural lumbar spinal tumors carries a relatively high complication rate. This series reveals distinct risk factors that contribute to 30-day morbidity and mortality, which may be optimized preoperatively to improve surgical safety.

Comparison between minimally invasive spine stabilization with and without posterior decompression for the management of spinal metastases: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Posterior decompression and stabilization plays significant roles in palliative surgery for metastatic spinal tumor. However, the indication for addition of posterior decompression have not been examined. The purpose of this study was to investigate a retrospective cohort of outcomes of metastatic spinal tumor treated with minimally invasive spine stabilization (MISt) with or without posterior decompression. METHODS: The subjects were 40 patients who underwent MISt using percutaneous pedicle screws for metastatic spinal tumor, including 20 patients treated with stabilization alone (group A) and 20 patients with added posterior decompression (group B). We analyzed baseline characteristics, postoperative survival time, and perioperative factors such as neurological outcomes, Barthel Index, VAS, and rate of discharge to home. RESULTS: The mean ages were 70 and 66 years old (P = 0.06), the mean revised Tokuhashi scores were 7.2 and 5.8 (P = 0.1), the mean spinal instability neoplastic scores (SINS) were 10.5 and 9.0 (P = 0.04), and the mean Barthel Index for ADL were 65.5 and 41.0 (P = 0.06) in groups A and B, respectively. The median postoperative survival time did not differ significantly between groups A and B (12.0 vs. 6.0 months, P = 0.09). Patients in group A had a significantly shorter operation time (166 vs. 232 min, P = 0.004) and lower intraoperative blood loss (120 vs. 478 mL, P < 0.001). Postoperative paralysis (P = 0.1), paralysis improvement rate (P = 0.09), postoperative Barthel Index (P = 0.06), and postoperative VAS (P = 0.6) did not differ significantly between the groups. The modified Frankel classification improved from D1 or D2 before surgery to D3 or E after surgery in 4 of 10 cases (40%) in group A and 8 of 8 patients (100%) in group B (P = 0.01). Significantly more patients were discharged to home in group A (P = 0.02), whereas significantly more patients died in the hospital in group B (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Patients treated without decompression had a shorter operation time, less blood loss, a higher rate of discharge to home, and lower in-hospital mortality, indicating a procedure with lower invasiveness. MISt without decompression is advantageous for patients with D3 or milder paralysis, but decompression is necessary for patients with D2 or severer paralysis.

The Impact of Metastatic Spinal Tumor Location on 30-Day Perioperative Mortality and Morbidity After Surgical Decompression.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study from 2011 to 2014 was performed using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of tumor location in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbosacral spine on 30-day perioperative mortality and morbidity after surgical decompression of metastatic extradural spinal tumors. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Operative treatment of metastatic spinal tumors involves extensive procedures that are associated with significant complication rates and healthcare costs. Past studies have examined various risk factors for poor clinical outcomes after surgical decompression procedures for spinal tumors, but few studies have specifically investigated the impact of tumor location on perioperative mortality and morbidity. METHODS: We identified 2238 patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent laminectomy for excision of metastatic extradural tumors in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbosacral spine. Baseline patient characteristics were collected from the database. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to examine the association between spinal tumor location and 30-day perioperative mortality and morbidity. RESULTS: On univariate analysis, cervical spinal tumors were associated with the highest rate of pulmonary complications. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that cervical spinal tumors had the highest odds of multiple perioperative complications. However, thoracic spinal tumors were associated with the highest risk of intra- or postoperative blood transfusion. In contrast, patients with metastatic tumors in the lumbosacral spine had lower odds of perioperative mortality, pulmonary complications, and sepsis. CONCLUSION: Tumor location is an independent risk factor for perioperative mortality and morbidity after surgical decompression of metastatic spinal tumors. The addition of tumor location to existing prognostic scoring systems may help to improve their predictive accuracy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Update: Role of surgery in acute necrotizing pancreatitis.

Acute necrotizing pancreatitis is a prevalent disease with high morbidity and mortality. The development of radiologic and endoscopic techniques to manage pancreatic necrosis commands a multidisciplinary approach, which has considerably decreased the need for laparotomy. The objective of this update is to define the role of surgery in the multidisciplinary approach to management of necrotizing acute pancreatitis.

Controversies in the Management of Geriatric Odontoid Fractures.

Fractures of the odontoid process of C2 have become increasingly prevalent in the aging population and are typically associated with a high incidence of morbidity. Dens fractures comprise the majority of all cervical fractures in patients older than 80 years and remain the most common cervical fracture pattern in all geriatric patients. Type II odontoid fractures have been associated with limited healing potential, and both nonoperative and operative management are associated with high mortality rates. Historically, there has been some debate in the literature with regards to optimal management strategies to maximize outcomes in geriatric patients. Recent, high-quality evidence has indicated that surgical treatment of type II odontoid fractures in elderly patients is associated with improvements in both short- and long-term mortality. Additionally, surgical intervention has been shown to improve functional outcomes when compared with nonsurgical treatment. Factors to consider before surgery for geriatric type II odontoid fractures include associated comorbidities and the safety of general anesthesia administration. With appropriate measures of patient selection, surgery can provide an efficacious option for geriatric patients with type II odontoid fractures. We recommend surgical intervention via a posterior C1-C2 arthrodesis for geriatric type II odontoid fractures, provided that the surgery itself does not represent an unreasonable risk for mortality.

Mortality Caused by Surgery for Degenerative Lumbar Spine.

STUDY DESIGN: Register study. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the safety of lumbar spine surgery for degenerative disorders and to assess the predictive factors for mortality and causes of death. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Growing numbers and relative indications of spine surgery emphasize the importance of patient safety. We assessed the incidence of mortality related to surgery, overall case fatality and factors predicting mortality in elective spinal surgery. METHODS: A national database was utilized to assess patient characteristics, surgical procedures, and outcomes of degenerative spinal surgery in Finland. Patients were classified into four diagnostic categories: disc herniation, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. The mortality related to surgery and overall mortality in each diagnostic group was analyzed at 7 days, 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year after surgery. We categorized the deaths into medical errors, sequelae of surgery, surgery probably a contributing factor, and deaths not associated with surgery. Age, sex, comorbid conditions, and hospital characteristics were considered as potential risk factors for mortality. RESULTS: Out of 408 deaths (0.67% of total of 61,166 patients) deaths that occurred during the 1-year follow up, 49 deaths (12% of deaths, 0.08% of patients) were classified as having an association with surgery: two deaths by medical errors, 28 deaths by complications after surgery and 19 deaths related to the surgery. The surgery-related 1-year mortality was 0.08%. Age >75 years, male sex, diabetes, and hypertension showed an association with increased risk of death related to surgery. CONCLUSION: Mortality caused by elective spinal surgery is rare. Cardiovascular incidents are the most common reasons for deaths occurring soon after surgery. Consideration of expected gains and risks of surgery, prevention of unintended errors during surgery and recognition and treatment of complications once they occur are recommended. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Superion Interspinous Spacer Treatment of Moderate Spinal Stenosis: 4-Year Results.

OBJECTIVE: To determine 4-year clinical outcomes in patients with moderate lumbar spinal stenosis treated with minimally invasive stand-alone interspinous process decompression using the Superion device. METHODS: The 4-year Superion data were extracted from a randomized, controlled Food and Drug Administration investigational device exemption trial. Patients with intermittent neurogenic claudication relieved with back flexion who failed at least 6 months of nonsurgical management were enrolled. Outcomes included Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ) symptom severity (ss), physical function (pf) and patient satisfaction (ps) subdomains, leg and back pain visual analog scale (VAS), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). At 4-year follow-up, 89 of the 122 patients (73%) provided complete clinical outcome evaluations. RESULTS: At 4 years after index procedure, 75 of 89 patients with Superion (84.3%) demonstrated clinical success on at least 2 of 3 ZCQ domains. Individual component responder rates were 83% (74/89), 79% (70/89), and 87% (77/89) for ZCQss, ZCQpf, and ZCQps; 78% (67/86) and 66% (57/86) for leg and back pain VAS; and 62% (55/89) for ODI. Patients with Superion also demonstrated percentage improvements over baseline of 41%, 40%, 73%, 69%, and 61% for ZCQss, ZCQpf, leg pain VAS, back pain VAS, and ODI. Within-group effect sizes all were classified as very large (>1.0): 1.49, 1.65, 1.42, 1.12, and 1.46 for ZCQss, ZCQpf, leg pain VAS, back pain VAS, and ODI. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive implantation of the Superion device provides long-term, durable relief of symptoms of intermittent neurogenic claudication for patients with moderate lumbar spinal stenosis.

How much does decompressive laparotomy reduce the mortality rate in primary abdominal compartment syndrome?: A single-center prospective study on 66 patients.

Contribution of decompressive laparotomy within the framework of the complex therapeutic algorithm of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is cited with an extremely heterogeneous percentage in terms of survival. The purpose of this study was to present new data regarding contribution of each therapeutic step toward decreasing the mortality of this syndrome.This is a longitudinal prospective study including 134 patients with risk factors for ACS. The intra-abdominal pressure was measured every hour indirectly based on transvesical approach and the appearance of organ dysfunction. Specific therapy for ACS was based on the 2013 World Society of Abdominal Compartment Syndrome guidelines, which include laparotomy decompression. Management of the temporarily open abdomen included an assisted vacuum wound therapy.Of 134 patients, 66 developed ACS. The average intra-abdominal pressure significantly decreased after therapy and decompression surgery. The overall rate of mortality was 27.3% with statistical significance in necrotizing infected pancreatitis. Surgical decompression performed within the first 24 hours after the onset of ACS had a protective role against mortality (odds ratio <1). The average time after which laparotomy decompression was performed was 16.23 hours. The complications occurred during TAC were 2 wound suppurations and 1 intestinal obstruction. Wound suppurations evolved favorably by using vacuum wound-assisted therapy associated with the general treatment, whereas for occlusion, resurgery was performed after which adhesions dissolved. The final closure of the abdomen was performed at a mean of 11.7 days (min. = 9, max. = 14). The closure type was primary suture of the musculoaponeurotic edges in 4 cases, and the use of dual mesh in the other 11 cases.The highest mortality rate in the study group was registered in patients with necrotizing pancreatitis and the lowest in trauma group. Surgical decompression within the framework of the complex algorithm treatment of ACS contributed to the reduction of mortality by 8.7%. It is extremely important that the elapsed time since the initiation of the ACS until the surgical decompression is minimal (under 24 hours).

Decompression surgery for spinal metastases: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature on reported outcomes following decompression surgery for spinal metastases. METHODS The authors conducted MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science database searches for studies reporting clinical outcomes and complications associated with decompression surgery for metastatic spinal tumors. Both retrospective and prospective studies were included. After meeting inclusion criteria, articles were categorized based on the following reported outcomes: survival, ambulation, surgical technique, neurological function, primary tumor histology, and miscellaneous outcomes. RESULTS Of the 4148 articles retrieved from databases, 36 met inclusion criteria. Of those included, 8 were prospective studies and 28 were retrospective studies. The year of publication ranged from 1992 to 2015. Study size ranged from 21 to 711 patients. Three studies found that good preoperative Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS ≥ 80%) was a significant predictor of survival. No study reported a significant effect of time-to-surgery following the onset of spinal cord compression symptoms on survival. Three studies reported improvement in neurological function following surgery. The most commonly cited complication was wound infection or dehiscence (22 studies). Eight studies reported that preoperative ambulatory or preoperative motor status was a significant predictor of postoperative ambulatory status. A wide variety of surgical techniques were reported: posterior decompression and stabilization, posterior decompression without stabilization, and posterior decompression with total or subtotal tumor resection. Although a wide range of functional scales were used to assess neurological outcomes, four studies used the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale to assess neurological function. Four studies reported the effects of radiation therapy and local disease control for spinal metastases. Two studies reported that the type of treatment was not significantly associated with the rate of local control. The most commonly reported primary tumor types included lung cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, renal cancer, and gastrointestinal cancer. CONCLUSIONS This study reports a systematic review of the literature on decompression surgery for spinal metastases. The results of this study can help educate surgeons on the previously published predictors of outcomes following decompression surgery for metastatic spinal disease. However, the authors also identify significant gaps in the literature and the need for future studies investigating the optimal practice with regard to decompression surgery for spinal metastases.