Correlation between the Severity of the Lumbar Degenerative Disease and Sagittal Spinopelvic Alignment.

Objective To evaluate the impact of the severity of lumbar degenerative disease (LDD) on sagittal spinopelvic alignment. Methods In total, 130 patients (mean age: 57 years; 75% female) with LDD-associated low-back pain were prospectively included. The severity of the LDD was defined by the following findings on anteroposterior and lateral lumbar spine radiographs: osteophytosis; loss of of height of the intervertebral disc; terminal vertebral plate sclerosis; number of affected segments; deformities; and objective instability. The disease was classified as follows: grade 0-absence of signs of LDD in the lumbar spine; grade I - signs of LDD in up to two segments; grade II - three or more segments involved; grade III - association with scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, or laterolisthesis. Spinopelvic radiographic parameters, including pelvic incidence (PI), lumbar lordosis (LL), discrepancy between the PI and LL (PI-LL), pelvic tilt (PT), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA), were analyzed according to the LDD grades. Results The radiographic parameters differed according to the LDD grades; grade-III patients presented higher SVA ( p = 0.001) and PT ( p = 0.0005) values, denoting greater anterior inclination of the trunk and pelvic retroversion when compared to grade-0 andgrade-I subjects. In addition, grade-III patients had higher PI-LL values, which indicates loss of PI-related lordosis, than grade-I subjects ( p = 0.04). Conclusion Patients with more severe LDD tend to present greater spinopelvic sagittal misalignment compared to patients with a milder disease.

Correlation between the Severity of the Lumbar Degenerative Disease and Sagittal Spinopelvic Alignment / Correlação entre a gravidade da doença degenerativa lombar e o alinhamento espinopélvico

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of the severity of lumbar degenerative disease (LDD) on sagittal spinopelvic alignment. Methods In total, 130 patients (mean age: 57 years; 75% female) with LDD-associated low-back pain were prospectively included. The severity of the LDD was defined by the following findings on anteroposterior and lateral lumbar spine radiographs: osteophytosis; loss of of height of the intervertebral disc; terminal vertebral plate sclerosis; number of affected segments; deformities; and objective instability. The disease was classified as follows: grade 0-absence of signs of LDD in the lumbar spine; grade I - signs of LDD in up to two segments; grade II - three or more segments involved; grade III - association with scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, or laterolisthesis. Spinopelvic radiographic parameters, including pelvic incidence (PI), lumbar lordosis (LL), discrepancy between the PI and LL (PI-LL), pelvic tilt (PT), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA), were analyzed according to the LDD grades. Results The radiographic parameters differed according to the LDD grades; grade-III patients presented higher SVA (p= 0.001) and PT (p= 0.0005) values, denoting greater anterior inclination of the trunk and pelvic retroversion when compared to grade-0 andgrade-I subjects. In addition, grade-III patients had higher PI-LL values, which indicates loss of PI-related lordosis, than grade-I subjects (p= 0.04). Conclusion Patients with more severe LDD tend to present greater spinopelvic sagittal misalignment compared to patients with a milder disease.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o impacto da graduação da doença degenerativa lombar (DDL) sobre o alinhamento sagital espinopélvico. Métodos Ao todo, 130 pacientes (dade média: 57 anos; 75% do sexo feminino) com dor lombar associada a DDL foram prospectivamente incluídos. A gravidade da DDL foi definida pelos seguintes achados nas radiografias anteroposterior e de perfil da coluna lombar: osteofitose; perda de altura do disco intervertebral; esclerose na placa vertebral terminal; número de segmentos afetados; deformidades; e instabilidade objetiva. Os pacientes foram graduados segundo a DDL da seguinte maneira: grau 0-ausência de sinais de DDL na coluna lombar; grau I - sinais de DDL em até dois segmentos; grau II - envolvimento em três ou mais segmentos; grau III - quando associada a escoliose, espondilolistese ou laterolistese. Parâmetros radiográficos espinopélvicos, como incidência pélvica (IP), lordose lombar (LL), discrepância entre a IP e a LL (IP-LL), versão pélvica (VP), e eixo vertical sagital (EVS) foram analisados de acordo com os graus de DDL. Resultados Houve diferença nos parâmetros radiográficos comparando-se os graus de DDL, com os pacientes de grau III apresentando maiores valores de EVS (p= 0,001) e VP (p= 0,0005), o que denota maior inclinação anterior do tronco e maior retroversão pélvica do que os pacientes de graus 0 e I. Pacientes de grau III também apresentaram maiores valores de IP-LL, o que denota perda da lordose relativa ao valor da IP, do que pacientes grau I (p= 0,04). Conclusão Pacientes com DDL mais grave demonstraram uma tendência a maior desalinhamento sagital espinopélvico comparados com pacientes com graus mais leves.

Study of the diameter of the oblique corridor in lateral decubitus and dorsal decubitus: radiological study / Estudo do diâmetro do corredor oblíquo em decúbito lateral e decúbito dorsal: estudo radiológico / Estudio del diámetro del corredor oblicuo en decúbito lateral y dorsal: estudio radiológico

ABSTRACT Introduction: Degenerative intervertebral disc disease and its impact on quality of life when associated with sagittal misalignmentis a current topic in the literature. The technique known as OLIF derives from the need to use anterior cage stop romote stabilization of the affected segment, indirect decompression, restoration of segmental lordosis, and sagittal balance. Methods: Single-center, non-randomized, comparative, observational study. The following variables were measured using magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine in dorsal and lateral decubitus, establishing a comparison between the size of the OLIF corridor in the L3L4 and L4L5 segments, as well as a comparison of corridor size between the different positions. Results: There was no difference incorridor size in the comparison between decubitus. However, when the L3L4 and L4L5 levels were compared, there was a significant difference in the size of the corridor in both the lateral and dorsal positions. Conclusion: The present study did not show any difference between the size of the OLIF corridor in L3L4 and L4L5 in the different decubitus, suggesting that thee valuation of the corridor in convention al magnetic resonance images appearstobe safe andreflects the actual size when positio ned for performing the OLIF technique. Level of evidence III; Retrospective study.

RESUMO Introdução: A doença degenerativa do disco intervertebral e seu impacto sobre a qualidade de vida quando está associada a desalinhamento sagital é tema atual na literatura. A técnica conhecida como OLIF deriva da necessidade de uso de cages anteriores para promover estabilização do segmento afetado, descompressão indireta, restauração da lordose segmentar e equilíbrio sagital. Métodos: Estudo de centro único, não randomizado, comparativo, observacional. Foram medidas as seguintes variáveis por ressonância magnética de coluna lombar em decúbito dorsal e lateral, estabelecendo comparação entre o tamanho do corredor OLIF nos segmentos L3-L4 e L4-L5, assim como comparação entre o tamanho do corredor entre as diferentes posições. Resultados: Não houve diferença entre o tamanho do corredor na comparação entre os decúbitos. Entretanto, ao comparar os níveis L3-L4 e L4-L5 houve diferença significativa no tamanho do corredor, tanto na posição lateral quanto na posição dorsal. Conclusões: O presente estudo não demonstrou diferença detamanho do corredor OLIF em L3-L4 e L4-L5 em diferentes decúbitos, sugerindo que a avaliação do corredor em ressonância magnética convencional parece ser segura e reflete o tamanho real quando posicionado para execução da técnica OLIF. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo.

RESUMEN Introducción: La enfermedad degenerativa del disco intervertebral y su impacto en lacalidad de vida cuando se asocia a una desalineación sagital es un tema actualenla literatura. La técnica conocida como OLIF deriva de la necesidad de utilizar cages anteriores para favorecer la estabilización del segmento afectado, la descompresión indirecta, la restauración de la lordosis segmentaria y el equilibrio sagital. Métodos: Estudio observacional comparativo unicéntrico, no aleatorizado. Se midieron las siguientes variables mediante resonancia magnética de la columna lumbar endecúbito dorsal y lateral, estableciendo la comparación entre el tamaño del corredor OLIF en los segmentos L3L4 y L4L5, así como la comparación entre el tamaño del corredor entre las diferentes posiciones. Resultados: No hubo diferencia entre el tamaño del corredor en la comparación entre decúbitos. Sin embargo, al comparar los niveles L3-L4 y L4-L5, hubo una diferencia significativa en el tamaño del corredor tanto en posición lateral como dorsal. Conclusiones: El presente estudio no mostró diferencias en el tamaño del corredor OLIF en L3-L4 y L4-L5, en diferentes posiciones de decúbito, lo que sugiere que la evaluación del corredor en la resonancia magnética convenciona lparece ser segura y refleja el tamaño real cuando se posiciona para realizar la técnica OLIF. Nivel de evidencia III; Estudio retrospectivo

Association between spinal alignment and biochemical composition of lumbar intervertebral discs assessed by quantitative magnetic resonance imaging.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate potential associations between spinopelvic parameters and the biochemical composition of lumbar intervertebral discs using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging in asymptomatic young adults. METHODS: Our study group comprised 93 asymptomatic volunteers aged 20-40 years (49 women and 44 men). Lumbar spine T2-weighted images and T2 relaxometry were acquired on a 1.5T MRI scanner. Spinopelvic parameters including sacral slope, pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, thoracolumbar alignment, sagittal vertical axis, spinosacral angle, C2 pelvic angle, and T1S1 and L1S1 length were measured on panoramic spine radiographs. RESULTS: Lumbar lordosis decrease correlates with discrete dehydration of nucleus pulposus at all lumbar levels. Also low values of sacral slope, pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, thoracic kyphosis and spinosacral angle were associated with decrease of T2 relaxation times on annulus fibrosus. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, spinopelvic parameters presented a discrete association with lumbar disc composition and water content.

The Effect of Patient Position on Psoas Morphology and in Lumbar Lordosis.

INTRODUCTION: Among the interbody fusions, lateral lumbar interbody fusion allows access to the lumbar spine through the major psoas muscle, which offers several advantages to the spine surgeon. However, some of its drawbacks cause surgeons to avoid using it as a daily practice. Therefore, to address some of these challenges, we propose the prone transpsoas technique, differing mainly from the traditional technique on patient position-moving from lateral to prone decubitus, theoretically enhancing the lordosis and impacting the psoas morphology. METHODS: Twenty-four consecutive patients were invited to have magnetic resonance imaging examinations in 3 different positions (prone, dorsal, lateral). Two observers measured the following parameters: vertebral body size, psoas diameter, psoas anterior border distance, plexus distance, total lumbar lordosis, distal lumbar lordosis, and proximal lumbar lordosis. Values of P < 0.05 were deemed significant. RESULTS: The prone position yielded a significant increase in the lumbar lordosis, both in L1-S1 (57° vs. 46.5°) and proximal lordosis (40.4° vs. 36.9°) compared with the lateral position. Regarding the morphologic aspects, patients in the prone position presented lesser psoas muscles forward shift, but no difference was noted in the plexus position neither for L3-L4 nor L4-L5. CONCLUSIONS: The prone position resulted in a significantly increased lumbar lordosis, both distal and proximal, which may enable the spine surgeon to achieve significant sagittal restoration just by positioning. The prone position also produced a posterior retraction of the psoas muscle. However, it did not significantly affect the position of the plexus concerning the vertebral body.

Adaptation of the frailty index for brazilian portuguese in adult spine deformity surgery / Adaptação para o português do Brasil do índice de fragilidade em cirurgia de deformidade da coluna vertebral do adulto / Adaptación para portugués de Brasil del índice de fragilidad en cirugía de deformidad de la columna vertebral del adulto

ABSTRACT Objectives To adapt the adult spinal deformity frailty index (ASD-FI), which was presented as an instrument for stratification of risk of surgical complications, for application in the Brazilian population. Methods This is a consensus-building study, following the Delphi method, in which a team of six Brazilian spine surgery specialists worked alongside the International Spine Study Group (ISSG), the group responsible for preparing the original version of the ASD-FI, in order to adapt the index for the Brazilian population. The variables to be included in the new version, as well as the translation of the terminology into Portuguese, were evaluated and a consensus was considered to have been reached when all (100%) of the Brazilian experts were in agreement. Results A version of the ASD-FI was created, composed of 42 variables, with the inclusion of two new variables that were not included in the original version. The new version was then back translated into English and approved by the ISSG members, resulting in the adapted version of the ASD-FI for the Brazilian population. Conclusion This study presents an adapted version of the adult spinal deformity frailty index for the Brazilian population, for the purpose of risk stratification in the surgical treatment of these complex deformities. Level of evidence II; Study of adaptation of a valid score.

RESUMO Objetivos Adaptar o Índice de Fragilidade para Deformidade da Coluna Vertebral do Adulto (IF-DCVA), apresentado como instrumento para estratificação de risco para complicações cirúrgicas, para aplicação na população brasileira. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo de criação de consenso, seguindo o método Delphi, em que uma equipe de seis especialistas brasileiros em cirurgia da coluna trabalhou em conjunto com o International Spine Study Group (ISSG), grupo responsável pelo desenvolvimento da versão original do IF-DCVA, a fim de adaptar o índice para a população brasileira. As variáveis a serem incluídas na nova versão, assim como a tradução da terminologia para o português foram avaliadas e foi considerado consenso quando todos (100%) os especialistas brasileiros chegaram a um acordo. Resultados Uma versão do IF-DCVA foi criada, composta por 42 variáveis, com a inclusão de duas novas variáveis que não faziam parte da versão original. A nova versão foi, então, retrotraduzida para o inglês e aprovada pelos membros do ISSG, resultando na versão adaptada do IF-DCVA para a população brasileira. Conclusões O presente estudo apresenta uma versão adaptada do Índice de Fragilidade para Deformidade da Coluna Vertebral do Adulto para a população brasileira com o objetivo de avaliar a estratificação de risco no tratamento cirúrgico dessas deformidades complexas. Nível de evidência II; Estudo de adaptação de um escore válido.

RESUMEN Objetivos Adaptar el Índice de Fragilidad para Deformidad de la Columna Vertebral del Adulto (IF-DCVA), presentado como instrumento para estratificación de riesgo para complicaciones quirúrgicas, para aplicación en la población brasileña. Métodos Se trata de un estudio de creación de consenso, siguiendo el método Delphi, en el que un equipo de seis especialistas brasileños en cirugía de columna trabajó junto con el International Spine Study Group (ISSG), grupo responsable por el desarrollo de la versión original de IF-DCVA, a fin de adaptar el índice para la población brasileña. Las variables a ser incluidas en la nueva versión, así como la traducción de la terminología para el portugués de Brasil fueron evaluadas y se consideró consenso cuando todos (100%) los especialistas brasileños llegaron a un acuerdo. Resultados Fue creada una versión del IF-DCVA, compuesta por 42 variables, con la inclusión de dos nuevas variables que no formaban parte de la versión original. La nueva versión fue entonces retrotraducida al inglés y aprobada por los miembros del ISSG, lo que resultó en la versión adaptada del IF-DCVA para la población brasileña. Conclusiones El presente estudio presenta una versión adaptada para la población brasileña del Índice de Fragilidad para la Deformidad de la Columna Vertebral del Adulto, con el objetivo de evaluar la estratificación de riesgo en el tratamiento quirúrgico de esas deformidades complejas. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudio de adaptación de una escala válida.

Spinopelvic variability according to the roussouly classificaton curve type / Variabilidade espinopélvica de acordo com o tipo de curva da classificação de roussouly / Variabilidad espinopélvica de acuerdo con el tipo de curva de la clasificación de roussouly

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the variability of spinopelvic sagittal parameters and the distribution of lordosis in the lumbar spine in a sample of patients. Methods This is a cross-sectional study considering full-spine radiographs of a patient sample. The patients were classified according to the Roussouly classification and both radiographic spinopelvic alignment parameters and the lordosis measurement of each lumbar spinal segment were considered. The radiographic parameters were correlated with the Roussouly classification type. Results Ninety patients were included in the study. There was significant correlation between pelvic incidence (PI) and lumbar lordosis (LL) (R=0.89; p<0.0001). The values of PI were significantly higher in Roussouly types 3 and 4 than in types 1 and 2 (p<0.001), as were the values of LL L1-S1(p<0.001). Considering the total sample, 67% of LL L1-S1 was located between L4-S1, but with variations by the Roussouly classification curve types. Conclusion This study demonstrated a high correlation between the values of PI and LL, as well as the importance of the distal lumbar segment (L4-S1) in the overall value of LL L1-S1, which was even higher in patients with a lower PI value (Roussouly types 1 and 2). Level of evidence II; Retrospective analysis of a prospective database (Cohort); Diagnostic study.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a variabilidade dos parâmetros sagitais espinopélvicos em uma amostra de pacientes, assim como a distribuição de lordose no segmento lombar da coluna vertebral. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo transversal, considerando radiografias da coluna total de uma amostra de pacientes. Os pacientes foram avaliados de acordo com a classificação de Roussouly e foram considerados os parâmetros radiográficos do alinhamento sagital espinopélvico, além da medida da lordose de cada segmento da coluna lombar. Os parâmetros radiográficos foram correlacionados com o tipo da classificação de Roussouly. Resultados Noventa pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. Houve correlação significativa entre a incidência pélvica (IP) e a lordose lombar (LL) L1-S1 (R=0,89; p<0,0001). O valor da IP foi significativamente maior nos tipos 3 e 4 de Roussouly do que nos tipos 1 e 2 (p<0,001), assim como o valor da LL L1-S1 (p<0,001). Considerando o total da amostra, 67% da LL L1-S1 estava localizada entre L4-S1, porém com variação conforme o tipo de curva pela classificação de Roussouly. Conclusões O presente estudo demonstrou grande correlação entre os valores da IP e da LL, assim como a importância do segmento lombar distal (L4-S1) no valor global da LL L1-S1, ainda maior nos pacientes com menor valor de IP (tipos 1 e 2 de Roussouly). Nível de evidência II; Análise retrospectiva de banco de dados prospectivo (coorte); Estudo diagnóstico.

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar la variabilidad de los parámetros sagitales espinopélvicos en una muestra de pacientes, así como la distribución de lordosis en el segmento lumbar de la columna vertebral. Métodos Se trata de un estudio transversal, considerando radiografías de la columna total de una muestra de pacientes. Los pacientes fueron evaluados de acuerdo con la clasificación de Roussouly y fueron considerados los parámetros radiográficos de la alineación sagital espinopélvica, además de la medida de la lordosis de cada segmento de la columna lumbar. Los parámetros radiográficos fueron correlacionados con el tipo de la clasificación de Roussouly. Resultados Fueron incluidos 90 pacientes en el estudio. Hubo correlación significativa entre la incidencia pélvica (IP) y la lordosis lumbar (LL) L1-S1 (R=0,89; p <0,0001).). El valor de la IP fue significativamente mayor en los tipos 3 y 4 de Roussouly que en los tipos 1 y 2 (p <0,001), así como el valor de la LL L1-S1 (p <0,001). Considerando el total de la muestra, 67% de la LL L1-S1 estaba localizada entre L4-S1, aunque con variación conforme al tipo de curva por la clasificación de Roussouly. Conclusiones El presente estudio demostró gran correlación entre los valores de la IP y de la LL, así como la importancia del segmento lumbar distal (L4-S1) en el valor global de la LL L1-S1, aún mayor en los pacientes con menor valor de IP (tipos 1 y 2 de Roussouly). Nivel de evidencia II; Análisis retrospectivo de banco de datos prospectivo (cohorte), Estudio diagnóstico.

Anatomical Variations and Morphometric Features of the Foramen Transversarium in the Cervical Vertebrae of a Latin American Population: A Brazilian Study.

BACKGROUND: Knowledge of the anatomy of the foramen transversarium (FT) is essential for performing surgical procedures on the cervical spine. The aim of the present study was to analyze the characteristics of the FT anatomy of the lower cervical spine and its anatomic variations using computed tomography (CT) in a Brazilian population. METHODS: Two independent observers performed linear measurements of the anteroposterior diameter (APD), lateral diameter (LD), and FT area (FTA) of 600 FTs of the lower cervical spine of 60 individuals (30 women and 30 men). The CT images were obtained from a database. The data were compared between genders and different age cohorts. RESULTS: The lowest average APD, LD, and FTA were found at the C7 level. The highest mean APD was found at the C6 level, and the highest mean LD was found at the C3 level. The highest mean FTA was at the C3 for the women and C6 for the men. The mean APD, LD, and FTA on the left side were greater than those on the right side at all levels. We found a tendency for the mean FTA to increase with increasing age. Finally, 95% of the whole sample had presented with ≥1 and 42% with >3 anatomical variations of the FT. CONCLUSIONS: We determined the morphometric features of the FT using CT images. Anatomic variations were observed that justify their study before performing cervical surgical procedures.

Grading scale of lumbar degenerative disease in full spine x-ray / Escala de graduação da doença degenerativa lombar em exames de radiografia panorâmica da coluna vertebral / Escala de graduación de la enfermedad degenerativa lumbar en exámenes de radiografía panorámica de la columna vertebral

ABSTRACT Objective: To present a new lumbar degenerative disease grading scale considering full spine radiography and to evaluate its inter- and intraobserver reproducibility. Methods: A total of 132 full spine radiographies in the anterior and lateral views were analyzed. The cases were independently graded by two examiners. The radiographic parameters observed were osteophytosis, loss of disc height, sclerosis and subchondral cysts, number of affected segments, deformities, and signs of instability. The grading scale was proposed as follows: Degree zero corresponded to the absence of signs of degenerative disease in the lumbar spine; Grade I - presence of signs of degenerative disease up to two segments; Grade II - involvement of three or more segments; Grade III - associated deformity or signs of instability. The intra- and interobserver reproducibility was determined by the Kappa coefficient (κ) in general and according to the age group. Results: Kappa coefficient obtained for interobserver and intraobserver analysis showed excellent overall correlation (0.855 and 0.902, respectively). When analyzed according to age, results obtained in intraobserver correlation remained excellent (κ >0.8) in all age groups. The interobserver correlation remained excellent, except in the age range of 40-59 years (κ = 0.773), although maintaining a substantial reproducibility. Conclusion: The grading scale of lumbar degenerative disease observed in full spine x-rays showed excellent inter- and intraobserver reproducibility. Level of Evidence I; Diagnostic study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Apresentar uma nova escala de graduação da doença degenerativa lombar observada em exames de radiografia panorâmica da coluna vertebral e avaliar sua reprodutibilidade inter e intraobservador. Métodos: Foram avaliados 132 exames de radiografia total da coluna vertebral (panorâmica) nas incidências frente e perfil. Os casos foram graduados de maneira independente por dois examinadores. Os parâmetros radiográficos observados foram osteofitose, perda da altura discal, esclerose e cistos subcondrais, número de segmentos acometidos, deformidades e sinais de instabilidade. A escala de graduação foi proposta da seguinte maneira: Grau zero como ausência de sinais de doença degenerativa na coluna lombar; Grau I apresentando sinais de doença degenerativa até 2 segmentos; Grau II apresentando acometimento de três segmentos ou mais; Grau III quando associado com deformidade ou instabilidade. A reprodutibilidade intra e interobservador foi determinada pelo coeficiente Kappa (κ) de forma geral e conforme a faixa etária. Resultados: O Coeficiente Kappa obtido para a análise interobservador e intraobservador, mostrou excelente correlação geral (0,855 e 0,902, respectivamente). Quando analisados conforme a faixa etária, os resultados obtidos na correlação intraobservador mantiveram-se como excelente (κ > 0,8) em todas as faixas etárias. Na correlação interobservador, os resultados mantiveram-se excelentes, exceto na faixa etária de 40-59 anos (κ = 0,773), mas mantendo uma reprodutibilidade substancial. Conclusão: A escala de graduação da doença degenerativa lombar observada em exames de radiografia total (panorâmica) da coluna vertebral apresentou excelente reprodutibilidade tanto inter quanto intraobservador. Nível de Evidência I; Estudo diagnóstico.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Presentar una escala de graduación de la enfermedad degenerativa lumbar en radiografías panorámicas de columna vertebral y evaluar su reproducibilidad inter e intraobservador. Métodos: Se evaluaron 132 radiografías panorámicas anteriores y laterales de columna vertebral. Los casos fueron graduados de manera independiente por dos examinadores. Los parámetros radiográficos observados fueron osteofitosis, pérdida de la altura discal, esclerosis y quistes subcondrales, número de segmentos afectados, deformidades y signos de inestabilidad. La escala de graduación que se propuso fue la siguiente: Grado cero - ausencia de signos de enfermedad degenerativa en la columna lumbar; Grado I - signos de enfermedad degenerativa hasta 2 segmentos; Grado II - compromiso de tres segmentos o más; Grado II I - deformidad asociada o signos de inestabilidad. La reproducibilidad intra e inter-observador fue determinada por el coeficiente Kappa (κ) de forma general y conforme al grupo de edad. Resultados: El coeficiente Kappa obtenido en los análisis interobservador e intraobservador mostró excelente correlación general (0,855 y 0,902, respectivamente). Cuando se analizaron según el grupo de edad, los resultados de la correlación intraobservadores se mantuve excelente (κ > 0,8) en todas las edades. En la correlación interobservadores, los resultados se mantuvieron excelentes, excepto en el edad de 40-59 años (κ = 0,773), pero manteniendo reproducibilidad sustancial. Conclusión: La escala de graduación de la enfermedad degenerativa lumbar observada en exámenes de radiografía total (panorámica) de la columna vertebral presentó excelente reproducibilidad tanto inter como intraobservador. Nivel de evidencia I; Estudio diagnóstico.

A Technique for Dynamic Cervical Magnetic Resonance Imaging Applied to Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Reliability Study.

STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate morphometric variations of the cervical spine in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) using a standard technique of dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to assess the inter- and intraobserver reliability of measurements of morphometric parameters based on this imaging, and to compare the resulting measurements with those previously published. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Because dynamic factors may contribute to the etiology and severity of CSM, dynamic (flexion-extension) MRI may be useful to better evaluate for spinal stenosis and cord compromise. METHODS: Dynamic cervical MRI was obtained using a standard protocol with the neck in neutral, flexion, and extension positions. The morphometric parameters considered were anterior length of the spinal cord (ALSC), posterior length of the spinal cord (PLSC), spinal canal diameter, and spinal cord width. Two observers analyzed the parameters independently, and the inter- and intraobserver reliabilities were assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS: A total of 18 patients were included in the study and all completed the dynamic MRI acquisition protocol. The inter- and intraobserver reliabilities demonstrated "almost perfect agreement" (ICC >0.9, P < 0.001) for ALSC and PLSC in all positions. The spinal canal diameter had inter- and intraobserver reliability classified as "almost perfect agreement" (ICC: 0.83-0.98, P < 0.001 and ICC: 0.90-0.99, P < 0.001, respectively) in all positions. The spinal cord width had inter- and intraobserver reliability classified as "substantial agreement" (ICC: 0.73-0.94, P < 0.001 and ICC: 0.79-0.96, P < 0.001, respectively) in all positions. ALSC and PLSC in neutral, flexion, and extension positions from the present study were significantly greater compared to the measurements previously published (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The dynamic MRI protocol presented was safe and may allow a more complete evaluation of variations in the cervical spine in patients with CSM than traditional MRI protocols. The morphometric parameters based on this protocol demonstrated excellent inter- and intraobserver reliabilities. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

RELIABILITY OF A BRAZILIAN PORTUGUESE TRANSLATED AND CROSS-CULTURALLY ADAPTED VERSION OF THE MJOA SCALE.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the intra- and inter-observer reliability of a Brazilian Portuguese translated and cross-culturally adapted version of the mJOA questionnaire. METHODS: The reliability of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the mJOA scale was assessed through the evaluation of a sample of patients with cervical myelopathy by two independent experienced spine surgeon examiners. Inter-observer reliability was defined by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) between the evaluations of the two examiners, and intra-observer reliability was assessed by the ICC between the two evaluations of one examiner. RESULTS: Fifty-five patients were included in the study (mean age 58.7 years). The ICC for inter-observer reliability of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the mJOA was 0.967, and the ICC for intra-observer reliability was 0.869, both classified as "almost perfect" (> 0.81). CONCLUSION: The Brazilian Portuguese translated and cross-culturally adapted version of the mJOA questionnaire appears to be valid and reliable. Level of evidence I, Diagnostic Studies, Investigating a Diagnostic Test.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a confiabilidade intra e interobservador da versão do questionário mJOA traduzida e adaptada culturalmente para o português brasileiro. MÉTODOS: A confiabilidade da versão em português da escala mJOA foi avaliada em uma amostra de pacientes com mielopatia cervical por dois examinadores com experiência em cirurgia da coluna vertebral. A confiabilidade interobservador foi definida pelo Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (CCI) entre as avaliações dos dois examinadores e a confiabilidade intraobservador pelo CCI entre duas avaliações de um examinador. RESULTADOS: Cinquenta e cinco pacientes foram incluídos no estudo (média de idade: 58,7 anos). O CCI para confiabilidade interobservador da versão brasileira do mJOA foi 0,967 e o CCI para a confiabilidade intraobservador foi 0,869, ambas classificadas como "quase perfeita" (> 0,81). CONCLUSÃO: A versão do questionário mJOA traduzida e adaptada culturalmente para o português brasileiro demonstrou-se válida e confiável. Nível de Evidência I, Estudos diagnósticos, Investigação de um Exame para Diagnóstico.

Reliability of a brazilian portuguese translated and cross-culturally adapted version of the mjoa scale / Reprodutibilidade da versão traduzida e adaptada culturalmente para o português brasileiro da escala mjoa

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the intra- and inter-observer reliability of a Brazilian Portuguese translated and cross-culturally adapted version of the mJOA questionnaire. Methods: The reliability of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the mJOA scale was assessed through the evaluation of a sample of patients with cervical myelopathy by two independent experienced spine surgeon examiners. Inter-observer reliability was defined by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) between the evaluations of the two examiners, and intra-observer reliability was assessed by the ICC between the two evaluations of one examiner. Results: Fifty-five patients were included in the study (mean age 58.7 years). The ICC for inter-observer reliability of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the mJOA was 0.967, and the ICC for intra-observer reliability was 0.869, both classified as "almost perfect" (> 0.81). Conclusion: The Brazilian Portuguese translated and cross-culturally adapted version of the mJOA questionnaire appears to be valid and reliable. Level of evidence I, Diagnostic Studies, Investigating a Diagnostic Test.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a confiabilidade intra e interobservador da versão do questionário mJOA traduzida e adaptada culturalmente para o português brasileiro. Métodos: A confiabilidade da versão em português da escala mJOA foi avaliada em uma amostra de pacientes com mielopatia cervical por dois examinadores com experiência em cirurgia da coluna vertebral. A confiabilidade interobservador foi definida pelo Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (CCI) entre as avaliações dos dois examinadores e a confiabilidade intraobservador pelo CCI entre duas avaliações de um examinador. Resultados: Cinquenta e cinco pacientes foram incluídos no estudo (média de idade: 58,7 anos). O CCI para confiabilidade interobservador da versão brasileira do mJOA foi 0,967 e o CCI para a confiabilidade intraobservador foi 0,869, ambas classificadas como "quase perfeita" (> 0,81). Conclusão: A versão do questionário mJOA traduzida e adaptada culturalmente para o português brasileiro demonstrou-se válida e confiável. Nível de Evidência I, Estudos diagnósticos, Investigação de um Exame para Diagnóstico.

Assessment of the cervical spine denticulate ligament using MRI volumetric sequence: Comparison between 1.5 Tesla and 3.0 Tesla.

BACKGROUND: Denticulate ligaments (DLs) are pial extensions on each side of the spinal cord, comprising about 20 to 21 pairs of fibrous structures connecting the dura mater to the spinal cord. These ligaments are significant anatomical landmarks in the surgical approach to intradural structures. To our knowledge, there is no previous study on the detection of DLs using MRI. METHODS: After IRB approval, we retrospectively evaluated 116 consecutive MRI scans of the cervical spine, using the volumetric sequence 3D COSMIC, 65 and 51 studies with 1.5T and 3.0T respectively. We did not include trauma and tumor cases. Two independent radiologists assessed the detection of cervical spine DLs independently and blinded for each cervical vertebral level. We compared the frequency of detection of these ligaments in 1.5 Tesla and 3.0 Tesla MRI using Fisher exact test considering P<0.05 as significant. We evaluated interobserver agreement with Kappa coefficient. RESULTS: We observed high detection frequency of the cervical spine DLs using both 1.5T (70 to 91%) and 3.0T (68 to 98%). We found no statistically significant difference in the detection frequency of ligaments between the 1.5T and 3.0T MRI in all vertebral levels. Using 3.0T, radiologists identified ligaments better in higher vertebral levels than for lower cervical levels (P=0.0003). Interobserver agreement on the identification of DL was poor both for 1.5T (k=0.3744; CI 95% 0.28-0.46) and 3.0T (k=0.3044; CI 95% 0.18-0.42) MRI. CONCLUSIONS: Radiologists identified most of the cervical DLs using volumetric MRI acquisition. Our results suggest 1.5T and 3.0T MRI performed similarly in the detection of DLs.

A Brazilian Portuguese cross-cultural adaptation of the modified JOA scale for myelopathy.

OBJECTIVES:: To develop a version of the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) scale that had been translated into Portuguese and cross-culturally adapted for the Brazilian population. METHODS:: The well-established process of forward-backward translation was employed along with cross-cultural adaptation. RESULTS:: Three bilingual translators (English and native Portuguese) performed the forward translation of the mJOA scale from English to Portuguese based on iterative discussions used to reach a consensus translation. The translated version of the mJOA scale was then back-translated into English by a native English-speaking translator unaware of the concepts involved with the mJOA scale. The original mJOA scale and the back-translated version were compared by a native North American neurosurgeon, and as they were considered equivalent, the final version of the mJOA scale that had been translated into Portuguese and cross-culturally adapted was defined. CONCLUSION:: To facilitate global and cross-cultural comparisons of the severity of cervical myelopathy, this study presents a version of the mJOA scale that was translated into Portuguese and cross-culturally adapted for the Brazilian population.

Endplates changes related to age and vertebral segment.

Endplate separations are defined as the presence of a space between the hyaline cartilage and the cortical bone of the adjacent vertebral body. This study evaluates endplate separations from the vertebral body and intervertebral discs and verifies if endplate separation is related to age and the spinal level. Groups were formed based on age (20-40 and 41-85 years old) and the vertebral segment (T7-T8 and L4-L5 segments). Histological analysis included assessment of the length of the vertebral endplates, the number and dimensions of the separations, and orientation of the collagen fibers, in the mid-sagittal slice. Two indexes were created: the separation index (number of separations/vertebral length) and separation extension index (sum of all separations/vertebral length). The results of the study demonstrated a direct relationship between the density of separations in the endplate and two variables: age and spinal level.

Prevalência da escoliose lombar em adultos / Prevalencia de la escoliosis lumbar en adultos / Prevalence of lumbar scoliosis in adults

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência da escoliose degenerativa do adulto (tipo de novo) em uma amostra da população brasileira. MÉTODOS: foram estudados 1149 exames radiográficos simples de abdome na incidência anteroposterior, realizados no Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, no período de julho de 2008 a fevereiro de 2009. RESULTADOS: a prevalência da escoliose do adulto na amostra da população estudada foi de 1,74 por cento, sendo maior na faixa etária entre 60 e 69 anos. Não foi observada diferença estatisticamente significativa (p = 0,41) entre os sexos, e a medida média do ângulo da escoliose foi de 19,1º. CONCLUSÃO: A PREVAlência da escoliose do adulto na amostra da população estudada está dentro dos resultados já apresentados na literatura.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the prevalence of adult degenerative scoliosis (de novo) in a sample of the population. METHODS: We studied 1149 plain anteroposterior abdominal radiographs in achieved in the Hospital das Clínicas of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto from July 2008 to February 2009. RESULTS: The prevalence of scoliosis in the adult population sample studied was 1.74 percent, being higher in the group aged between 60 and 69 years. There was no statistic significant difference (p=0.41) between the sexes, and the average length of the angle of scoliosis was 19.1º. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of scoliosis in the sample of the adult population studied is consistent with the presented results in the literature.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la prevalenciade la escoliosis degenerativa del adulto (tipo de 'novo') en una muestra de la población. MÉTODOS: Se estudiaron 1149 radiografías de abdomen simple en proyección anteroposterior; esto se realizó en el Hospital de la Facultad de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto de julio de 2008 a febrero de 2009. RESULTADOS: La preponderanciade la escoliosis en la población de la muestra de adultos estudiados fue de 1,74 por ciento, siendo mayor en el grupo entre 60 y 69 años. No hubo diferencias significativas (p = 0,41) entre los sexos, y la medida promediodel ángulo de la escoliosis fue de 19,1º. CONCLUSIÓN: La prevalencia de la escoliosis en la muestra de adultos de la población estudiada está de acuerdo con los resultados presentados en la literatura.

O que eu não faço mais na cirurgia da coluna vertebral: pesquisa entre cirurgiões de coluna brasileiros / Lo que no hago más en la cirugía de la coluna vertebral: encuesta entre cirujanos brasileños de la columna / What i stopped doing in spinal surgery: survey among brazilian spinal surgeons

OBJETIVO: Apresentar o resultado de pesquisa realizada entre 257 cirurgiões de coluna sobre os principais procedimentos cirúrgicos que não são mais utilizados para o tratamento das doenças traumáticas, degenerativas e deformidades da coluna vertebral. MÉTODO: Os participantes da pesquisa responderam a um questionário abrangendo o tratamento das diferentes doenças traumáticas, degenerativas e deformidades dos segmentos cervical, torácico e lombar, sendo que cada quesito apresentava três opções de resposta: não faço mais, nunca utilizei e ainda utilizo. RESULTADOS: Os cirurgiões entrevistados eram oriundos de 22 estados brasileiros, 97 por cento eram do sexo masculino com idade variando de 28 a 72 anos de idade (média 43,16 anos ±11,54 anos), e com 0 a 23 anos de atuação na área da cirurgia da coluna vertebral. A formação básica dos cirurgiões entrevistados era Ortopedia em 78,2 por cento e Neurocirurgia em 20,2 por cento. CONCLUSÃO: A avaliação das respostas dos questionários evidencia a mudança de atitude terapêutica e abandono de técnicas classicamente utilizadas no tratamento das doenças da coluna vertebral, influência da formação básica do cirurgião na escolha do tratamento das doenças da coluna vertebral e grande espectro de opções terapêuticas entre os cirurgiões entrevistados considerando o tempo de experiência na área de atuação, idade e formação básica.

OBJECTIVE: To present the results of a survey among 257 spine surgeons on the main surgical procedures that are no longer used to treat spinal trauma, degenerative spinal disease and spinal deformities. METHOD: The survey participants answered a questionnaire covering the treatment of different traumatic and degenerative diseases and deformities of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar segments, and each question had three response options: I don't do it anymore, I have never did it and I still do it. RESULTS: The interviewed surgeons came from 22 Brazilians states, 97 percent were male with age ranging from 28 to 72 years (mean age 43.16 years ±11.54 years), with 0-23 years of experience in spinal surgery. The basic training of the surveyed surgeons was 78.2 percent in Orthopedics and 20.2 percent in Neurosurgery. CONCLUSION: The evaluation of responses to the suvey emphasizes the change in therapeutic attitude and the abandonment of techniques classically utilized in the treatment of spinal diseases, the influence of the surgeon basic training in the treatment choice for spinal diseases and the wide spectrum of therapeutic options among the interviewed surgeons considering the time of experience in the area, age and basic training.

OBJETIVO: Presentar el resultado de la encuesta realizada entre 257 cirujanos de columna sobre los principales procedimientos quirúrgicos que no se utilizan más para el tratamiento de las enfermedades traumáticas, degenerativas y las deformidades de la columna vertebral. MÉTODO: Los participantes en la encuesta respondieron a un cuestionario que abarcó el tratamiento de las diversas enfermedades traumáticas, degenerativas y las deformidades de los segmentos cervical, torácico y lumbar, siendo que cada pregunta presentaba tres opciones de respuesta: no hago más, nunca utilicé y todavía uso. RESULTADOS: los cirujanos entrevistados eran residentes en 22 Estados brasileños, 97 por ciento eran del sexo masculino, de edades que variaban de 28 a 72 años (promedio 43,16 años ±11,54 años), y tenían de 0 a 23 años de actuación en el área de la cirugía de la columna vertebral. Las especialidades básicas de los cirujanos entrevistados eran Ortopedia 78,2 por ciento y Neurocirugía 20,2 por ciento. CONCLUSIÓN: La evaluación de las respuestas a los cuestionarios, evidencia el cambio de actitud terapéutica y el abandono de técnicas utilizadas clásicamente en el tratamiento de las enfermedades de la columna vertebral, señala la influencia de la especialidad básica del cirujano en la selección del tratamiento de las enfermedades de la columna vertebral y el gran espectro de opciones terapéuticas entre los cirujanos entrevistados, considerando el tiempo de experiencia en el área de actuación, la edad y la especialidad básica.