Multiaxial high-modularity spinopelvis (HMSP) fixation device in neuromuscular scoliosis: a comparative study.

PURPOSE: To compare radiological and clinical results in patients operated for neuromuscular scoliosis with pelvic fixation using high-modularity spinopelvic screw (HMSP) designed by authors. METHODS: Of 54 patients with neuromuscular scoliosis, group 1 comprised of 27 patients with conventional pelvic fixation; and group 2 comprised of 27 patients using HMSP. Results were evaluated radiologically and functionally. We compared preoperative and postoperative complications, especially the loosening or breakage of spinopelvis fixation device, failure of fixation, and the change of shadow around the spinopelvis fixation device. RESULTS: There was no difference of correctional power, preoperative average Cobb's angle of each group was 79.8 and 75 to postoperative 30.2 and 28.3 (P < 0.05). Pelvic obliquity improved from average 18.3°-8.9° in group I and average 24.3°-12.5° in group II (P < 0.05). However, there was no difference between two groups (P > 0.05). Average blood loss was 2,698 ml in group 1 and 2,414.8 ml in group 2 (P > 0.05). Average operative time was 360 min in group 1 and 332 min in group 2 (P = 0.30). There was no difference found between two groups regarding gait and functional evaluation. On the all cases of group 1 and 2, the change of shadow around the spinopelvis fixation device was observed. There was one case of the fracture of spinopelvis fixation device in group I. CONCLUSION: There was no difference of Cobb's angle and correctional power between the groups using HMSP when compared with the group using standard spinopelvis fixation device. Therefore, HMSP can be used more effectively in case of neuromuscular scoliosis.

Does delaying surgery in immature adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients with progressive curve, lead to addition of fusion levels?

PURPOSE: To analyze the changes in the curve extent, pattern and the fusion level in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients who undergo delayed surgery instead of early surgery. METHODS: Thirty-five immature AIS patients whose radiographs demonstrated an initial primary curve of more than 40° with a subsequent increase of 10° before attaining skeletal maturity with brace were enrolled. The initial and the final radiographs taken before surgery were compared to assess the changes in curve extent, pattern and the fusion levels as recommended by King's, Lenke's and Suk's guidelines. RESULTS: The average age of 35 AIS patients was 12.7 ± 1.6 years. The time interval between initial and final radiography was 39.3 ± 20.2 months and the degree of progress of the primary curve was 13 ± 9.7°. Fusion levels changed in 33 (94.2%), 33 (94.2%) and 32 (91.4%) patients according to King's, Lenke's and Suk's guidelines, respectively. Curve pattern was changed in 2 (5.7%), 12 (34.3%) and 10 (28.6) patients by King's, Lenke's and Suk's guidelines. The mean number of levels requiring fusion increased from 9.4 ± 2.1 at initial visit to 11.1 ± 1.8 at the final follow-up using King's guidelines, 9.7 ± 2.2-11.6 ± 2.0 as per Lenke's guidelines and 9.1 ± 2.0-11.5 ± 2.3 when fusion was planned using Suk's guidelines (p < 0.001 in all guidelines). CONCLUSIONS: Delay of surgery in immature AIS patients whose Cobb's angle exceed 40° initially and showing subsequent progression of the curve, of more than 10° can lead to alterations in the curve pattern and the need for increase in fusion levels.

Short apical rib resections thoracoplasty compared to conventional thoracoplasty in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery.

PURPOSE: To introduce a modified technique of thoracoplasty (short apical rib resection thoracoplasty (SARRT)) and compare its clinical, functional radiological outcomes and postoperative lung functions with conventional thoracoplasty (CT) in scoliosis surgery. METHODS: Retrospectively review of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients who underwent corrective surgery with thoracoplasty from 2006 to 2010 was performed. Thoracoplasty was performed in 58 patients (CT in 31 and SARRT in 27 patients). 21 patients who underwent deformity correction only, without thoracoplasty were taken as control group (non-thoracoplasty, NT). To evaluate the outcome of SARRT, radiological parameters, pulmonary functions and clinical outcomes were compared among all the three groups. RESULTS: Age, sex and scoliosis types were evenly distributed between 3 groups (p = 0.66, 0.92, 0.31). Number of levels fused, change in Cobb angle, lordosis, kyphosis, coronal balance, sagittal balance, coronal translation and sagittal translation were not significantly different among the three groups (p > 0.05 for all). There was 38.6% improvement in rib hump in NT, 44.04% in CT and 60.9% correction in SARRT group. Pulmonary complications were significantly higher in the CT group, especially in view of pleural rupture, pulmonary effusion and intercostal neuralgia (p = 0.041, 0.029, 0.049). There was no difference among three groups in postoperative pulmonary function but the score of satisfaction as sub-category in SRS-22 questionnaire was decreased in CT groups (p = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS: SAART is effective in correcting the rib deformity without altering the pulmonary functions and SAART has less number of pulmonary complications as compared to CT.

Changes in the spinopelvic parameters of elite weight lifters.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the changes in the spinopelvic parameters in weight lifters and evaluate the factors leading to spinal anatomical changes (eg, spondylolysis and listhesis). DESIGN: Case-control study. SETTING: Tertiary, institutional. PARTICIPANTS: The study group participants were practicing weight lifters in the athletes' village of the 2012 London Olympics. A total of 21 elite weight lifters were enrolled. Their data were compared with those of 45 healthy volunteers in the control group. INTERVENTIONS: Comparative radiological evaluations were performed among the 21 elite weight lifters. Spinopelvic parameters (radiographic analysis), including total (TLL), upper (ULL), and lower (LLL) lumbar lordoses, sacral slope, pelvic tilt (PT) and incidence, lumbar index, and disc angles, were assessed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The proportional ratio of ULL and LLL to TLL (ULL/TLL and LLL/TLL) was measured to describe the proportion effect. These values were compared with those of the control group. Weight lifters with and those without anatomical changes were subdivided into a deformed and nondeformed group, respectively, and further analyzed for differences. The correlation between these spinal parameters and the amount and duration of weight lifting training was also analyzed. RESULTS: Anatomical changes in the lumbar spine were seen in 6 weight lifters (28.6%, P = 0.01). The mean TLL, ULL, and LLL values (59.8, 22.6, and 37.2 degrees, respectively) were increased, whereas PT (10.3 degrees) was decreased in the athletes compared with the volunteers (P = 0.001, 0.005, 0.07, and 0.018, respectively). The ULL/TLL was higher in the deformed group than in the nondeformed group (P = 0.036). The duration and amount of weight lifting training were not correlated with the spinopelvic parameters measured in this study. CONCLUSIONS: The elite weight lifters had increased lumbar lordosis and decreased PT compared with the healthy volunteers. The ULL/TLL ratio may be used as a predictive marker for lumbar deformation.

Analysis of factors that affect shoulder balance after correction surgery in scoliosis: a global analysis of all the curvature types.

PURPOSE: To identify factors that can affect postoperative shoulder balance in AIS. METHOD: 89 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients with six types of curvatures who underwent surgery were included in this study. Whole spine antero-posterior and lateral radiographs were obtained pre- and postoperatively. In radiograms, shape and changes in curvatures were analyzed. In addition, four shoulder parameters and coronal balance were analyzed in an effort to identify factors significantly related to postoperative shoulder balance. RESULT: In general, all the four shoulder parameters (CHD, CA, CRID, RSH) were slightly increased at final follow up (t test, P < 0.05), although there was a decrease in Lenke type II and IV curvatures. However, pre- and postoperative shoulder parameters were not significantly different between each curvature types (ANOVA, P > 0.05). Moreover, no significant differences of pre- and postoperative shoulder level between different level of proximal fusion groups (ANOVA, P > 0.05) existed. In the analysis of coronal curvature changes, no difference was observed in every individual coronal curvatures between improved shoulder balance and aggravated groups (P > 0.05). However, the middle to distal curve change ratio was significantly lower in patients with aggravated shoulder balance (P < 0.05). In addition, patients with smaller preoperative shoulder imbalance showed the higher chance of aggravation after surgery with similar postoperative changes (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Significant relations were found between correction rate of middle, and distal curvature, and postoperative shoulder balance. In addition, preoperative shoulder level difference can be a determinant of postoperative shoulder balance.

Intraoperative airway obstruction in a Duchenne muscular dystrophy patient.

PURPOSE: To report a complication of airway obstruction during spinal deformity correction surgery in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patient, due to lordoscoliosis, airway malacia, and prone surgical positioning, which was rectified by changing the position of the patient and surgery was successfully completed. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 15-year-old boy was diagnosed with DMD and admitted for surgical treatment of thoracolumbar scoliosis. The patient's preoperative Cobb's angle was 79° and the kyphotic angle was -19°. During the initial period of surgery, while in the prone position, peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) suddenly increased from 20-21 to 38-41 cmH2O, wheezing sounds were heard on auscultation of both lungs, and his blood pressure began to fall. Under suspicion of airway problem, intraoperative fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed which confirmed airway obstruction. Attributing patient's prone position as the cause of airway obstruction, the surgical position of the patient was changed from prone to semi-lateral. After this change, the PIP stabilized to within normal limits (20-23 cmH2O). The surgical correction was successfully completed with a posterior-only pedicle screw by the free-hand technique, with the patient in the semi-lateral position for the rest of surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Lordoscoliosis and airway malacia in a patient with DMD can lead to occlusion of the tracheobronchial lumen when the patient is in the prone position. Changing the patient's position from prone to semi-lateral can be of help to reverse this airway obstruction and complete the surgery. Pedicular screw insertion can be safely and effectively carried out in this position using free-hand technique.

Effect of soft tissue thickness over the posterior border of the vertebral body and disc space on cage placement during posterior lumbar interbody fusion: a cadaveric study.

In the present study, we investigated whether there is a difference between visual depth (VD) and radiological image depth (RD) of cages (i.e., structural interbody support devices) placed in disc spaces during posterior lumbar interbody fusion and whether soft tissues covering the posterior border of the vertebral body and associated disc space are the cause of any observed differences. Using digital calipers, cages were inserted at a depth of 5 mm from the soft tissues covering the posterior border of the vertebral body and disc space under direct vision; this depth was defined as VD. After insertion, RD was measured in triplicate. The reliability of RD measurements was evaluated using an intraclass coefficient test. To identify the cause of differences between VD and RD, the thicknesses of soft tissues were measured microscopically. A total of 40 lumbar intervertebral disc spaces with cages were evaluated. The mean RD of cages was 3.12 mm, while the mean difference between the VD and RD of cages (DVRD) was 1.91 mm. On histological examination, the mean thickness of the soft tissue was 2.02 mm. Comparative analysis between histological values and DVRD showed no statistical difference (P = 1.14, 1.55, 0.06). There was a significant difference between VD and RD during cage placement, and soft tissue structure appeared to be responsible for the DVRD of inserted cages. Therefore, cages should be inserted deeper to account for differences between visual and radiological image depths.

Paraganglioma in the cauda equina. A case report.

Paraganglioma of the cauda equina is rare, and diagnosis is difficult. A 47-year-old woman presented with backache, with a 2-year history of pain radiating in her right lower extremity. Initial neurologic examination revealed mild hypaesthesia in the L4 dermatome on both sides. Spine MRI showed a well-delinated intradural extramedullary mass compressing the spinal cord. It extended from L2 to L4, with anterior compression of the spinal cord which was displaced posteriorly. Clinical and radiological findings suggested an ependymoma. Surgical decompression was performed from L2 to L4 through lumbar laminectomy under microscope. Intraoperatively, the patient experienced unexplained paroxysmal hypertension while manipulating the tumour, which was not relieved by hypotensive medication but resolved immediately after resection of the mass. Postoperatively, the neurologic status improved and the radiating pain was relieved. Histopathologic examination showed cellular perivascular arrangement which looked like 'pseudorosettes'. Taken together, these histologic and radiologic findings suggested a benign myxopapillary ependymoma. However, immunohistochemical examination showed reactivity with synaptophysin and chromogranin. Finally, histological examination of the specimen revealed a 'Zellballen' pattern of paraganglioma, and the final diagnosis of paraganglioma with secreting function was confirmed. Paraganglioma is a rare tumour that can exhibit a secreting function causing paroxysmal hypertension which may be life threatening. Therefore, the differential diagnosis is important. The diagnosis is based on close examination of the clinical, radiologic and pathologic findings.

Esophageal Perforation After Anterior Cervical Surgery: A Case Report and Literature Review.

SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND: Esophageal perforation (EP) after anterior cervical surgery is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition. EP caused by malpositioned implants in cervical spine injury with multiple comorbidities is challenging to treat simultaneously. STUDY: This was a case report study. PURPOSE OF STUDY: The aim of this study was to present successful treatment of EP in a subluxated C5-C6 level with implant failure, infection, septicemia, and comorbidities. The aim was to emphasize the need for a multispecialty approach while treating serious complications. CASE: A 72-year-old woman presented to the ER with a history of operated cervical spine a week ago and having breathlessness, fever, wound infection, and tracheostomy in situ. After primary investigations, the patient was initially treated in the intensive care unit, where bleeding from the tracheostomy site was noticed. Upon endoscopy, EP was diagnosed due to implant failure. She was operated for revision cervical spine surgery (drainage of pus with anterior and posterior cervical fixation) and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube insertion (esophageal diversion). On exploration of EP, a decision was made to perform conservative treatment as initial tag sutures did not hold due to infection. Postoperatively, the patient developed rectal bleed 3 times, which was ultimately treated with cecal bleed embolization. The infected cervical wound was managed with an open dressing. The patient was managed with intermittent assisted ventilation through tracheostomy postoperatively. Barium swallow at 10 weeks confirmed healing of EP and oral feed was started. Tracheostomy closure was performed once the wound had healed, and the patient was discharged with improved neurology at 12 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Perioperative problems after cervical surgery such as breathing difficulty, wound discharge, and worsening of neurology may lead to suspicion of underlying EP due to implant failure. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy needs to be considered for a prompt diagnosis. Revision spine surgery with treatment of perforation simultaneously and maintenance of enteral nutrition through a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube with a multispecialty approach is recommended for this potentially life-threatening condition.

Does lateral vertebral translation correspond to Cobb angle and relate in the same way to axial vertebral rotation and rib hump index? A radiographic analysis on idiopathic scoliosis.

The deformity in idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is three dimensional in nature and effective correction involves all three planes. Even though the vertebral translation (VT) is an accepted element in the deformity along with vertebral rotation(VR) as reported by Asher and Cook (Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 20(12):1386-1391, 1995), Kotwicki et al. (Study Health Technol Inf 123:164-168, 2006) and Kotwicki and Napiontek (Pediatr Orthop 28(2):225-229, 2008), rib hump (rib hump index (RI)) and Cobb angle as reported by Aaro and Dahlborn (Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 6(6):567-572, 1981), it was assumed that VT was represented by adequately by Cobb angle and it was not analysed individually. We hypothesized that the Cobb angle and the VT measured in axial plane on CT scan and may not represent the same measurement and factors like coronal plane vertebral tilt,VR and vertebral deformation might affect them in different ways. Hence, VT should be considered as a separate variable and its relationship with VR, RI and Cobb angle should be investigated. Since the newer implants depend on curve translation and derotation for correction studying the role of VT and the relationships is important. VT, VR and RI were measured in CT scans of 75 patients with IS and correlated with Cobb angle. Regression analysis was used to identify the influence of the variables on each other. All the variables significantly correlated with one another but the correlation of Cobb and VT is not perfectly linear and it cannot be used to represent VT. VT influences RI much more than Cobb angle or VR. VT, therefore, merits further study treating it as an independent variable.

Idiopathic scoliosis in Korean schoolchildren: a prospective screening study of over 1 million children.

Cross-sectional epidemiologic scoliosis screening was carried out to determine the current prevalence of scoliosis in the Korean population and to compare with the results of previous studies. Between 2000 and 2008, 1,134,890 schoolchildren underwent scoliosis screening. The children were divided into two age groups, 10-12-year-olds (elementary school) and 13-14-year-olds (middle school), to calculate age- and sex-specific prevalence rates. Children with a scoliometer reading ≥5° were referred for radiograms. Two surgeons independently measured curve types, magnitudes, and Risser scores (inter-observer r = 0.964, intra-observer r = 0.978). Yearly and overall prevalence rates of scoliosis were calculated. There were 584,554 boys and 550,336 girls in the sample, with a male to female ratio of 1.1:1. There were 77,910 (6.2%) children (26,824 boys and 51,086 girls) with scoliometer readings >5°, and 37,339 of them had positive results with Cobb angles ≥10° (positive predictive value, 46.4%). The overall scoliosis prevalence rate was 3.26%; girls had a higher prevalence (4.65%) than boys (1.97%). Prevalence rates increased progressively from 1.66 to 6.17% between 2000 and 2008, with the exception of 2002. According to age and gender, 10-12-year-old girls had the highest scoliosis prevalence rates (5.57%), followed by 13-14-year-old girls (3.90%), 10-12-year-old boys (2.37%), and 13-14-year-old boys (1.42%). In girls and boys, prevalence rates dropped by 64.53 and 60.65% among 10-12-year-olds and 13-14-year-olds, respectively (P = 0.00). The proportion of 10°-19° curves was 95.25 and 84.45% in boys and girls, respectively; and the proportion of 20°-29° curves was 3.91 and 11.28%, which was a significant difference (P = 0.00). Thoracic curves were the most common (47.59%) followed by thoracolumbar/lumbar (40.10%), double (9.09%), and double thoracic (3.22%) curves. A comparison of the curve patterns revealed significant differences between genders (P = 0.00). We present this report as a guide for studying the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis in a large population, and the increasing trend in the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis emphasizes the need for awareness.

Postoperative spinal epidural hematoma after microscopic lumbar decompression: a prospective magnetic resonance imaging study in 89 patients.

STUDY DESIGN: A prospective case series. OBJECTIVE: To prospectively analyze the incidence, characteristics, clinical outcomes, and risk factors of postoperative spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) after microscopic lumbar decompression using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Studies prospectively focusing on postoperative SEH after microscopic lumbar decompression alone are rare. METHODS: Eighty-nine patients who underwent microscopic lumbar decompressive surgery for herniated disc and/or stenosis between January 2007 and June 2007 were prospectively followed. Decompression was carried out using unilateral or bilateral laminotomy in all patients. Postoperative MRI was taken at 24 hours after surgery in all patients. Using operative report, chart, and MRI, the incidence, characteristics, and risk factors of postoperative SEH were evaluated. Clinical outcomes were evaluated 2 years after surgery using Visual Analogue Scale score and Oswestry Disability Index. RESULTS: Postoperative SEH developed in 13 patients (14.6%). There were 5 males and 8 females. The mean age of these patients was 57.1 years. Postoperative SEH occurred at the index level in 6 cases, and at the index level with extension toward non-decompressed adjacent levels in 7 cases. Eleven patients were asymptomatic and 2 patients complained of leg pain and/or mild weakness. No patients underwent revision surgery owing to postoperative SEH. There was no significant difference in improvements of Visual Analogue Scale and ODI scores, and clinical success rate between patients with and without SEH. Patient's age 50 years old or more was the only significant risk factor for the development of postoperative SEH (P=0.024; odds ratio=5.12). CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of postoperative SEH after microscopic lumbar decompressive surgery was 14.6%. Postoperative SEH did not delay clinical improvements. Age 50 years old or more was strongly associated with the development of postoperative SEH.

Surgical correction of paralytic neuromuscular scoliosis with poor pulmonary functions.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate clinical and functional success by all pedicle screw construct in paralytic neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS) with poor pulmonary functions (PFT). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND: Duchene muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy are often associated with poor PFT and the development of scoliosis simultaneously. Poor PFT often make surgeons reluctant to operate. METHODS: Eighteen paralytic NMS patients who had preoperative forced vital capacity (FVC) < 30% were operated with all pedicle screw construct. Average preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up Cobb angle, pelvic obliquity, thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis, PFT (FVC% and forced expiratory volume 1%), and preoperative and follow-up functional status were analyzed. Perioperative and postoperative complications were also noted. RESULTS: The average follow-up was 31.6 ± 7.7 months. There was significant improvement in Cobb angle (61.7%) and pelvic obliquity (56.7%), postoperatively (P < 0.001). All corrections were maintained at final follow-up. FVC was decreased from 25.2 ± 4.7% preoperatively to 24.2 ± 5.0%, 6 weeks postoperatively (P = 0.067); and on follow-up it further decreased to 20.6 ± 3.9% (P < 0.0001) (1.8%/y). Forced Expiratory Volume 1 also decreased from 22.7 ± 4.5% preoperatively to 21.8 ± 4.2% postoperatively (P = 0.037) and was 19.8 ± 3.8% at final follow-up (P < 0.0001) (1.1%/y). However, none of the patients had any respiratory complications postoperatively. Functional status was improved in 6 patients and they were able to sit without support (P = 0.027). Eight (44.4%) perioperative complications (5 pulmonary, 1 intraoperative death, and 2 others) were noticed. Postoperatively, 4 patients (23.5%) had complications; coccygodynia, back sore because of screw prominence, impingement of iliac screw, and loosening of the rod from L5 screw. All the patients were satisfied with the treatment. There were no major pulmonary complications requiring admission postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Although complications are associated with the treatment of paralytic NMS, a good clinical and function outcome suggests that poor PFT should not be considered as a contraindication of scoliosis surgery.

Risk of developing seizure after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective analysis in patients who underwent percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) and developed seizures during the procedure; and to identify the risk of developing seizure during PELD by measuring cervical epidural pressure. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical significance, characteristics, and risk factors for developing seizure and neck pain in patients undergoing PELD. SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND DATA: Increased epidural pressure during PELD has been reported earlier. Risk of developing intraoperative seizure has not been investigated till date. We experienced some unexpected complication such as, seizures during PELD, and, therefore, we correlated it with the prodromal symptom and the strategies to avoid such complications during PELD. METHODS: Four of the total 16,725 patients who underwent PELD between 2000 and 2008 developed intraoperative seizures. A review of their medical records and radiologic files were correlated with the complication. Factors evaluated were the type of seizures, prodromal symptoms, comorbidities and clinical outcome. To postulate a pathophysiologic cause of seizure, we designed a study to monitor the intraoperative cervical epidural pressure in 33 patients undergoing PELD. RESULTS: A striking feature of the 4 patients in this series was that they all complained of neck pain before the seizure event. There was no identifiable pattern of seizure observed. The duration of the procedure in these patients was longer than uninvolved cases. None of the patients developed any type of sequel subsequent to seizure. The outcome of surgery has been similar with the patients that did not have any type of complications after PELD. In the subsequent study of cervical epidural pressure, no patients developed seizure. However, there was occurrence of neck pain in the group with increased cervical epidural pressure. CONCLUSIONS: Although rare (0.02%), seizure can occur in patients undergoing PELD, occurrence of neck pain is correlated with increase in cervical epidural pressure, which should be considered as prodromal sign and alert the surgeon. Duration of procedure and speed of infusion are associated risk factor.

Comparison of Clinical Outcome and Radiologic Parameters in Open TLIF Versus MIS-TLIF in Single- or Double-Level Lumbar Surgeries.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to compare clinical and radiologic parameters between minimally invasive surgery-transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) and open TLIF. METHODS: Data of 145 patients who underwent single- or double-level TLIF procedures with an open (n = 76) or a MIS (n = 69) technique were analyzed. Average operation time, estimated blood loss, and hospital stay were compared between open TLIF and MIS-TLIF. Improvement in clinical scores was analyzed using visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores in both groups and statistically compared using t tests. Radiologic parameters, such as lumbar lordosis, focal lordosis at the index level, and pelvic incidence (PI), were calculated at preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up for comparison. The differences in improvement between open and MIS groups were analyzed using unpaired t tests. RESULTS: Average follow-up was 35.8 ± 15.4 months in open TLIF and 37.9 ± 14.4 months in MIS-TLIF. The average blood loss and operation times were higher and hospital stay was less in MIS-TLIF compared to open TLIF. VAS scores were improved from preoperative (8.5 ± 0.6) to postoperative (2.1 ± 0.8) and preoperative (8.4 ± 0.8) to postoperative (2.0 ± 0.7) in open TLIF and MIS-TLIF, respectively (P < .0001), and ODI scores were improved from preoperative (55.2 ± 5.2) to postoperative (22.5 ± 4.3) and preoperative (56.7 ± 4.9) to postoperative (22.0 ± 5.0) in open TLIF and MIS-TLIF, respectively (P < .0001). Similarly, there were significant improvements in lumbar lordosis and focal lordosis at the index level with a difference of 3.9° and 2.5°, respectively, in open TLIF and 4.0° and 2.9°, respectively, in MIS-TLIF. However, there were no differences in PI in both groups. There were 9 (11.8%) and 9 (13%) complications encountered in open TLIF and MIS-TLIF, respectively. Two patients from open TLIF and 5 from MIS-TLIF had to undergo revision surgeries without any statistical difference. CONCLUSIONS: Open TLIF and MIS-TLIF are equally efficient surgical techniques with similar clinical and radiologic outcomes. MIS-TLIF is associated with less intraoperative blood loss and hospital stay; however, it increases operation time significantly.

Brachial Plexus Injury due to Central-line Insertion during Kypho-scoliosis Deformity Correction.

INTRODUCTION: Internal Jugular Venous (IJV) cannulation or central-line insertion is frequently performed during kyphoscoliosis deformity correction surgery or spine surgery with high risk. This helps monitor central venous pressure and administer medicines when required. Although many complications of IJV cannulation have been reported in the literature, its effect on brachial plexus is not known. The objective of this paper was to report a rare complication of IJV during scoliosis surgery. CASE PRESENTATION: We reported a case of 27-year-old male who was operated for severe kyphoscoliosis correction where preoperatively IJV cannulation was done. Repeated attempts were done during IJV cannula insertion due to altered anatomy. Eventually, cannula insertion was done using ultrasound modality and surgery for correction was done. Postoperatively patient developed right upper extremity weakness and sensory loss although the clinical result of kyphoscoliosis correction was acceptable. EMG-NCV study proved it brachial plexus injury. The patient was treated with intravenous steroid and physiotherapy. The patient recovered completely within 6 months of surgery. CONCLUSION: We reported a case of kyphoscoliosis deformity corrective surgery where IJV cannulation led to brachial plexus injury and was eventually recovered with medications and physiotherapy.

Clinical Correlation of Intraoperative Neuromonitoring in 319 Individuals Undergoing Posterior Decompression and Fixation of Spine.

STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective study. OBJECTIVES: To correlate improvement in motor evoked potential (MEP) during spine surgery with postoperative clinical improvement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three hundred fifty-three patients operated for posterior spinal decompression and fixation surgeries were prospectively selected and followed up. Patients who underwent lumbar, dorsal, and cervical surgeries were grouped into-group A, B, and C, respectively. Intraoperative neuromonitoring was done using MEP with free-running electromyography. Improvements in MEP scores were calculated in percentage. Similarly, postoperative improvement in Oswestry disability index (ODI) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores at 3 months were calculated in percentage. Improvements in MEP scores were correlated with clinical improvement using the Spearman ρ test and the r value was calculated to find out the association. RESULTS: Of 353 patients, 319 (250-group A, 38-group B, and 31-group C) were included for the study. VAS and ODI improved significantly from preoperative 8.5±0.8 and 62.9±14.5, to postoperative 2.3±1.1 and 15.9±11.5, respectively, in the entire group. Average preoperative MEP were 127.8±191.0 mV on the right side and 132.3±206.6 mV on the left side, which significantly improved to 163.7±231.2 mV (P=0.0001) and 155.2±219.6 mV (P=0.0001), respectively, showing 157.0% and 178.5% improvement. Correlating MEP improvement with postoperative improvement in ODI showed poor correlation (r=0.088 right and 0.030 left sides). Similarly, correlating MEP improvement with improvement in VAS showed r=0.110 on the right and -0.023 on the left side suggesting poor correlation. Postoperative neurological complications (0.56%) were found in 2 patients in the form of screw malpositioning. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoperative neuromonitoring showed significant improvement during posterior decompression and fixation surgery, and reduction in postoperative neurological complication. The study also exhibited significant postoperative clinical improvement. However, improvement in MEP did not correlate with postoperative clinical improvement suggesting that it has no predictive role.

Treatment and complications in flaccid neuromuscular scoliosis (Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy) with posterior-only pedicle screw instrumentation.

Literature has described treatment of flaccid neuromuscular scoliosis using different instrumentation; however, only one article has been published using posterior-only pedicle screw fixation. Complications using pedicle screws in paralytic neuromuscular scoliosis has not been described before. To present results and complications with posterior-only pedicle screws, a retrospective study was carried out in 27 consecutive patients with flaccid neuromuscular scoliosis (Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy), who were operated between 2002 and 2006 using posterior-only pedicle screw instrumentation. Immediate postoperative and final follow-up results were compared using t test for Cobb angle, pelvic obliquity, thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis. Perioperative and postoperative complications were noted from the hospital records of each patient. Complications, not described in literature, were discussed in detail. Average follow-up was 32.2 months. Preoperative, immediate postoperative and final follow-up Cobb angle were 79.8 degrees , 30.2 degrees (63.3% correction, p < 0.0001) and 31.9 degrees , respectively; and pelvic obliquity was 18.3 degrees , 8.9 degrees (52% correction, p < 0.0001) and 8.9 degrees . Postoperative thoracic kyphosis remained unchanged from 27.6 degrees to 19.9 degrees (p = 0.376); while lumbar lordosis improved significantly from +15.6 degrees to -22.4 degrees lordosis (p = 0.0002). Most patients had major to moderate improvement in postoperative functional and ambulatory status compared to the preoperative status. Thirteen (48.1%) perioperative complications were noted with five major complications (four respiratory in the form of hemothorax or respiratory failure that required ventilator support and one death) and eight minor complications (three UTI, two atelectasis, two neurological and one ileus). Postoperatively, we noted complications, such as coccygodynia with subluxation in 7, back sore on the convex side in 4 and dislodging of rod distally in 1 patient making a total of 12 (44.4%) postoperative complications. Of 12 postoperative complications, 6 (50%) required secondary procedure. We conclude that although flaccid neuromuscular scoliosis can be well corrected with posterior-only pedicle screw, there is a high rate of associated complications.

Reliability analysis for radiographic measures of lumbar lordosis in adult scoliosis: a case-control study comparing 6 methods.

Several methods are used to measure lumbar lordosis. In adult scoliosis patients, the measurement is difficult due to degenerative changes in the vertebral endplate as well as the coronal and sagittal deformity. We did the observational study with three examiners to determine the reliability of six methods for measuring the global lumbar lordosis in adult scoliosis patients. Ninety lateral lumbar radiographs were collected for the study. The radiographs were divided into normal (Cobb < 10 degrees ), low-grade (Cobb 10 degrees -19 degrees ), high-grade (Cobb >or= 20 degrees ) group to determine the reliability of Cobb L1-S1, Cobb L1-L5, centroid, posterior tangent L1-S1, posterior tangent L1-L5 and TRALL method in adult scoliosis. The 90 lateral radiographs were measured twice by each of the three examiners using the six measurement methods. The data was analyzed to determine the inter- and intra-observer reliability. In general, for the six radiographic methods, the inter- and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) were all >or=0.82. A comparison of the ICCs and 95% CI for the inter- and intra-observer reliability between the groups with varying degrees of scoliosis showed that, the reliability of the lordosis measurement decreased with increasing severity of scoliosis. In Cobb L1-S1, centroid and posterior tangent L1-S1 methods, the ICCs were relatively lower in the high-grade scoliosis group (>or=0.60). And, the mean absolute difference (MAD) in these methods was high in the high-grade scoliosis group (or=0.86 in all groups. And, in the TRALL method, the ICCs were >or=0.76 in all groups. In addition, in the Cobb L1-L5 and posterior tangent L1-L5 method, the MAD was

Accuracy of thoracic pedicle screw using ideal pedicle entry point in severe scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: The ideal pedicle entry point for the thoracic spine is described as the base of the superior facet at the junction of the lateral and middle thirds of the pedicle. Investigators have reported its accuracy in curves less than 90 degrees . QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: Our aim was to measure the accuracy of this entry point for pedicle screw insertion in severe and rigid scoliotic curves. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively measured the accuracy of thoracic pedicle screws in 26 patients with severe and rigid scoliosis (Cobb angle > or = 90 degrees ) inserted using the free-hand technique and the ideal pedicle entry point. Placements of thoracic pedicle screws were reviewed on postoperative CT scans, and the incidence and severity of penetration were determined. Screws penetrating medially up to 2 mm and laterally up to 4 mm were considered within the safe zone. RESULTS: One hundred sixty-eight (34.8%) of 482 inserted screws breached pedicle walls; 64 (13.2%) and 104 (21.6%) screws breached pedicle walls medially and laterally, respectively. Four hundred thirty-seven screws were within the safe zone, representing an accuracy rate of 90.7%. The accuracy rates of inserted screws in upper, middle, and lower thoracic pedicles were 93.4%, 87.7%, and 92%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Use of the ideal pedicle entry point is safe and accurate for thoracic pedicle screw placement in rigid curves of 90 degrees or greater. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, prognostic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.