Qualitative Evaluation of Paraspinal Musculature After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND: To quantify fatty infiltration and degree of paraspinal muscle degeneration in patients submitted to tubular microdiscectomy and conventional open microdiscectomy. METHODS: A prospective cohort of patients was submitted to microdiscectomy for lumbar disc herniation after failure of conservative treatment. Selection of the technique was based on the surgeon's preference. Analysis of the multifidus muscle was performed using the Goutallier system and the percentage of fat in the muscle. Preoperative and 1-year postoperative T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was used, and statistical analysis was carried out using the Wilcoxon test and Spearman correlation test using a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients were included in the study. The percentage of fatty infiltration in the muscle increased on both sides of the spine 1 year after surgery, although only the ipsilateral side presented statistical significance in patients submitted to conventional microdiscectomy (43.3% preoperative and 57.8% postoperative). Muscular degeneration increased significantly ipsilateral to the disc herniation according to the Goutallier classification (grades 1-2) for both interventions. No statistically significant difference was found for fatty infiltration scores or for the degree of muscular degeneration of the multifidus in the comparative analysis of the methods. CONCLUSIONS: Muscular damage resulting from surgery of lumbar disc herniation significantly increases fatty infiltration and degeneration of the multifidus. Muscular degeneration was associated with worsening back pain. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: While no significant difference was found between the techniques, the tubular minimally invasive approach shows a tendency for less muscle damage. These findings highlight the importance of minimizing muscle injury during surgery to improve postoperative recovery and long-term outcomes.

Bacterial identification in herniated intervertebral discs: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Reports of Cutibacterium acnes isolated in cultures of intervertebral disc samples suggest it as possibly responsible for inflammatory conditions causing Modic changes on spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). PURPOSE: Our objective was to investigate the prevalence of C. acnes in samples of intervertebral disc of patients with lumbar disc herniation; to investigate prognostic factors and the relationship of Modic changes with infection 1 year after microdiscectomy. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE: In this single-center study, patients consecutively operated on for disc herniation had samples of the disc, multifidus muscle and ligamentum flavum (as an indication of contamination) extracted for culture. OUTCOME MEASURES: Age, sex, alcohol and tobacco consumption, body mass index; function, pain, and Modic chances in MRI before surgery and MRI 1 year later; rate of disc, muscle and ligament infection (primary outcome); diabetes and corticoid use (confoundings). METHODS: The protruded disc, muscle and ligament samples were sent for culture analysis in up to 30 minutes. A subsample of 17 patients underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS) molecular analysis too. We performed descriptive analysis and comparison of groups of patients with and without infection or contamination using Student's t, Mann-Whitney, chi-square, or Fisher's exact tests as appropriate, and pre- and postsurgical comparisons with the Wilcoxon test. RESULTS: From January 2018 to September 2019, 112 patients underwent open lumbar microdiscectomy, 67 (59.8%) men. Cultures showed 7 (6.3%) positive cases in the disc (2 with C. acnes), 3 (2.7%) in the ligament, and 12 (10, 7%) in muscle. No evidence of a difference in Modic alterations pre- or postoperatively was found between patients with and without positive culture 1 year after surgery. No association was found between culture positivity and functional or pain differences either. NGS results were all negative for C. acnes. CONCLUSIONS: We identified infective bacterial presence in the herniated disc in less than 2% of patients with disc herniation. C. acnes was not identified in any disc microbiome analysis. No significant association was observed between positivity for tissue infection and any clinical prognostic factor.

Sagittal Balance in Professional Brazilian Football Players.

Introduction: Football soccer practice involves considerable risks of lesions, making it difficult to strike a balance between adequate preparation and the demand imposed on athletes. A high incidence of postural disorders among adolescents leads to questions about the influence of sports activity on the athletes' posture and sagittal balance. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from panoramic spine radiographs of 110 professional Brazilian football (soccer) players. They were male and aged between 20 and 30 years. Measurements of pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope, sagittal vertical axis (SVA), and lumbar lordosis were obtained by using the SurgimapⓇ software. Measurement values were compared with the Brazilian literature data. Lordosis type was categorized according to the classification of Roussouly et al., and the presence of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis was analyzed. Results: Findings indicated that (1) among 110 radiographs analyzed, 104 had appropriate measurement quality; (2) values compared with the Brazilian mean demonstrated that PT and SVA were statistically lower in professional players (P=0.013 and P=0.037, respectively); (3) according to Roussouly et al. most participants presented Type 3 lordosis (54.8%), followed by Type 4 (26.9%); (4) eight athletes (7.7%) had spondylolysis, and among them, seven (6.7%) had spondylolisthesis. Conclusions: Significant differences in PT and SVA were found in professional athletes. The most common type of lordosis was the same as that found in the general population (Type 3), and the incidence of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis was higher than that found in the general population, but lower than that found in football (soccer) players.

Low Back Pain in Medical Students and Professors During the Pandemic: Retrospective Cohort Study / Lombalgia em estudantes e professores de medicina durante a pandemia: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo

Abstract Objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence of low back pain before and during the pandemic, comparing both periods. Methods A questionnaire was administered, containing questions about the presence of low back pain, sociodemographic characteristics and environmental factors that could be related to such pain. Results Among the 978 responses obtained, the prevalence of low back pain during the pandemic was 69.94%, which represented a significant increase over values from the pre-pandemic period (57.37%). A high prevalence of low back pain was found between all groups, especially among women. Some factors were associated with the incidence of low back pain, such as having previously diagnosed spinal problems and sedentary lifestyle. Conclusions The prevalence of low back pain increased significantly during the pandemic in the studied groups.

Resumo Objetivo Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar a prevalência de lombalgia antes e durante a pandemia, comparando os dois períodos. Métodos Foi aplicado um questionário contendo questões sobre a presença de lombalgia, características sociodemográficas e hábitos que poderiam estar relacionados à essa dor. Resultados Entre as 978 respostas obtidas, a prevalência de lombalgia durante a pandemia foi de 69,94%, o que representou um aumento significativo em relação aos valores do período pré-pandêmico (57,37%). Foi encontrada alta prevalência de lombalgia entre todos os grupos, principalmente entre as mulheres. Alguns fatores foram associados à incidência de lombalgia, como ter problemas de coluna previamente diagnosticados e sedentarismo. Conclusões A prevalência de lombalgia aumentou significativamente durante a pandemia nos grupos estudados.

Sports practice after lumbar discectomy in non-professional athletes: a cross-sectional study / Prática esportiva após discectomia lombar em atletas não profissionais: estudo transversal / Práctica deportiva tras discectomía lumbar en atletas no profesionales: un estudio transversal

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Most athletes treated for lumbar disc herniation return to play between 3 and 9 months after conservative or surgical treatment. In the last two decades, the general population increased the practice and participation in amateur competitions, being more prone to overload injuries. Objectives: To evaluate sports practice after lumbar discectomy in non-professional athletes. Methods: In the last five years, a digital questionnaire was sent to patients submitted to up to two levels of open discectomy. After signing the informed consent form, the patients were instructed to answer the questionnaire with personal and clinical data related to disc treatment and sports practice after the procedure. Results: Of 182 contacted patients, a hundred answered the questionnaire; 65% practiced regular sports activities before surgery. From patients who practiced sports before surgery, 75.38% returned to sports activities after the procedure. 39.29% returned between 3 and 6 months. Only 12.31% referred to impaired sports performance, while 56.92% performed unaffected, and 21.54% reported improved performance after surgery. Prior sports practice, participation in amateur competitions, and regular core strengthening were significantly associated with sports practice after surgery (P<0,05). Conclusions: From the participants who had already practiced sports before surgery, 75.38% returned after the surgical procedure. Sports practice before surgery, participation in amateur competitions, and regular core strengthening were positively associated with a return to sports practice after lumbar discectomy. The study shows that core strengthening should be encouraged and recommended to all non-professional athletes who intend to return to sports after microdiscectomy surgeries. Level of Evidence: III; Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study.

RESUMO: Introdução: A maioria dos atletas tratados de hérnia de disco lombar volta a jogar em um período entre 3 e 9 meses, após tratamento conservador ou cirúrgico. Nas últimas duas décadas, a população em geral aumentou a prática e participação em competições amadoras; sendo mais propenso a lesões por uso excessivo. Objetivos: Avaliar a prática esportiva após discectomia lombar em atletas não profissionais. Métodos: Um questionário digital foi enviado aos pacientes submetidos à discectomia aberta de até 2 níveis, nos últimos cinco anos. Após a assinatura do termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido, os pacientes foram orientados a responder o questionário com dados pessoais e clínicos relacionados ao tratamento e à prática esportiva após o procedimento. Resultados: Dos 182 pacientes contatados, cem responderam ao questionário; destes, 65% praticavam atividades esportivas regulares antes da cirurgia. Dos pacientes que praticavam esportes antes da cirurgia, 75,38% retornaram à atividade esportiva após o procedimento. 39,29% retornaram entre 3 e 6 meses. Apenas 12,31% relataram piora no desempenho esportivo, enquanto para 56,92% o desempenho não foi afetado e 21,54% relataram melhora no desempenho após a cirurgia. A prática esportiva prévia, a participação em competições amadoras e o fortalecimento regular do core foram significativamente associados à prática esportiva após a cirurgia (P<0,05). Conclusões: Dos participantes que já praticavam esportes antes da cirurgia, 75,38% retornaram após o procedimento cirúrgico. A prática esportiva prévia à cirurgia, a participação em competições amadoras e o fortalecimento regular do core foram positivamente associados ao retorno à prática esportiva após a discectomia lombar. O estudo mostra que o fortalecimento do core deve ser incentivado e recomendado para todos os atletas não profissionais que pretendem retornar ao esporte após cirurgias de microdiscectomia. Nível de Evidência III; Estudio Transversal Retrospectivo.

RESUMEN: Introducción: La mayoría de los atletas tratados por hernia de disco lumbar regresan a jugar en un período de entre 3 y 9 meses, luego de un tratamiento conservador o quirúrgico. En las últimas dos décadas, la población en general incrementó la práctica y participación en competencias aficionadas; siendo más propensos a sufrir lesiones por sobrecarga.Objetivos: Evaluar la práctica deportiva posterior a discectomía lumbar en deportistas no profesionales. Métodos: Se envió un cuestionario digital a los pacientes sometidos a discectomía abierta de hasta 2 niveles, en los últimos cinco años. Tras firmar el consentimiento informado, se instruyó a los pacientes para que respondieran el cuestionario con datos personales y clínicos, relacionados con el tratamiento discal y la práctica deportiva posterior al procedimiento. Resultados: De 182 pacientes contactados, cien respondieron el cuestionario; de estos, el 65% practicaba actividades deportivas regulares antes de la cirugía. De los pacientes que practicaban deporte antes de la cirugía, el 75,38% retornó a la actividad deportiva después del procedimiento. El 39,29% volvió entre los 3 y 6 meses. Solo el 12,31 % refirió deterioro del rendimiento deportivo, mientras que para el 56,92 % el rendimiento no se vio afectado y el 21,54 % refirió mejora del rendimiento después de la cirugía. La práctica deportiva previa, la participación en competiciones aficionadas y la realización regular de fortalecimiento del core, se asociaron significativamente con la práctica deportiva tras la cirugía (P<0,05). Conclusiones: De los participantes que ya practicaban deporte antes de la cirugía, el 75,38% regresaron después del procedimiento quirúrgico. La práctica deportiva previa a la cirugía, la participación en competiciones de aficionados y la realización de un fortalecimiento core periódico se asociaron positivamente con la vuelta a la práctica deportiva tras la discectomía lumbar. El estudio muestra que se debe alentar y recomendar el fortalecimiento del core a todos los atletas no profesionales que tengan la intención de volver al deporte después de las cirugías de microdiscectomía. Nivel de Evidencia III; Estudio Retrospectivo Transversal.

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) to determine microbiome of herniated intervertebral disc.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: There is apparent causality between chronic infection of the intervertebral disc and its degenerative process. Although disc is considered a sterile tissue, collected samples of uninfected patients sent to culture testing resulted positive. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the microbiome of the intervertebral disc by using and validating the next-generation sequencing (NGS) molecular test, controlled with tissue culture and clinical presentation of patients. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Prospective study of consecutive patients in a hospital. PATIENT SAMPLE: Patients with lumbar disc herniation undergoing open microdiscectomy aging 18 to 65 years. OUTCOME MEASURES: NGS, tissue culture METHODS: Subjects undergoing open decompression surgery for lumbar disc herniation were consecutively included and clinically followed for one year. Three samples of the excised herniated disc fragment were sent to tissue culture and another sample of the disc was sent to NGS test for microbiome analysis. Control samples of the ligamentum flavum and deep muscle were collected and sent to culture. RESULTS: A total of 17 patients were included. All patients presented negative cultures of the removed disc samples, as well as negative cultures of muscle and yellow ligament. None of the patients evolved to clinical infection one year after surgery, nor presented significant alteration of laboratory markers. NGS mapped a mean of 14,645 (range 6,540 to 27,176) DNA sequences for each disc sample of each patient. There were a total of 45 different bacteria genera remnants with different amount of DNA sequences detected. There was a mean of 8 (range 3-17) different bacterial elements in each sample of intervertebral disc. Three bacteria were present in all disc samples (Herbaspirillum, Ralstonia, and Burkolderia). Although there were a considerable mean number of bacterial sequences mapped in each disc sample, the amount of sequences related to bacteria was low. Cutibacterium acnes elements was not found in any disc microbiome analysis. CONCLUSIONS: NGS has been proven to adequately determine bacterial DNA presence within the intervertebral disc. C. acnes was not isolated in culture neither in microbiome analysis of patients with lumbar disc herniation. We cannot confirm disc sterility since, even if it does not cause infection, there is bacterial or remnant DNA in herniated discs.

Quality assessment of systematic reviews of surgical treatment of cervical spine degenerative diseases: an overview

ABSTRACT Objective To gather all systematic reviews of surgical treatment of degenerative cervical diseases and assess their quality, conclusions and outcomes. Methods A literature search for systematic reviews of surgical treatment of degenerative cervical diseases was conducted. Studies should have at least one surgical procedure as an intervention. Included studies were assessed for quality through Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) and Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) questionnaires. Quality of studies was rated accordingly to their final score as very poor (<30%), poor (30%-50%), fair (50%-70%), good (70%-90%), and excellent (>90%). If an article reported a conclusion addressing its primary objective with supportive statistical evidence for it, they were deemed to have an evidence-based conclusion. Results A total of 65 systematic reviews were included. According to AMSTAR and PRISMA, 1.5% to 6.2% of studies were rated as excellent, while good studies counted for 21.5% to 47.7%. According to AMSTAR, most studies were of fair quality (46.2%), and 6.2% of very poor quality. Mean PRISMA score was 70.2%, meaning studies of good quality. For both tools, performing a meta-analysis significantly increased studies scores and quality. Cervical spondylosis studies reached highest scores among diseases analyzed. Authors stated conclusions for interventions compared in 70.7% of studies, and only two of them were not supported by statistical evidence. Conclusion Systematic reviews of surgical treatment of cervical degenerative diseases present "fair" to "good" quality in their majority, and most of the reported conclusions are supported by statistical evidence. Including a meta-analysis significantly increases the quality of a systematic review.

Treatment of non-specific chronic low back pain: resistance training with or without using weights? / Tratamiento de la lumbalgia crónica inespecífica: ¿entrenamiento de fuerza con o sin pesas? / Tratamento da lombalgia crônica inespecífica: treinamento resistido com ou sem pesos?

ABSTRACT Introduction: Dysfunction of the core muscles contributes to the persistence of pain in patients with chronic low back pain. Evidence shows that the active approach is beneficial in the rehabilitation of these patients. However, there is uncertainty as to the most effective methods or form of exercise, as the literature offers little guidance in this regard. Objective: To analyze and compare the impact on quality of life, function, flexibility, abdominal strength and abdominal fat rate in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain after a program of resistance training using two different forms of exercise. Methods: Thirty individuals, aged between 18 and 65 years, participated in the study. Twenty performed physical training program twice a week for eight weeks, and ten did not perform any physical exercises, but received guidance and pain relief. The physically active individuals were randomly divided in two groups and received similar resistance training, focusing on the same muscle groups. Ten performed training with dumbbells and bodybuilding machines (TRCP) and ten did not use this equipment (TRSP). All were assessed before and after the intervention, through questionnaires on quality of life and function, and tests for flexibility, abdominal strength and measurement of the abdominal fat rate. Results: In the intra-group comparison (initial vs eight weeks), there were no significant differences in quality of life in any of the groups. However, regarding function, the three groups showed significant improvement, with TRSP showing the best evolution. For flexibility and abdominal strength gain, TRCP showed the best evolution in both instruments. For decrease in abdominal fat rate, only TRCP showed significant differences. In the intergroup comparison, there were no significant differences for any of the evaluated outcomes. Conclusion: The two exercise programs were effective in improving function, flexibility and abdominal strength in patients with chronic, non-specific low back pain. However, there were no statistically significant differences in any of the outcomes in the comparison between groups. Level evidence II, Comparative prospective study.

RESUMEN Introducción: La disfunción de la musculatura del tronco contribuye para la persistencia del dolor en pacientes con lumbalgia crónica. La evidencia muestra que un enfoque activo para la rehabilitación de estos pacientes es beneficioso. Sin embargo, existe incertidumbre sobre qué método o modalidad es más eficaz, ya que la literatura existente ofrece poca orientación al respecto. Objetivo: Analizar y comparar el impacto en la calidad de vida, función, flexibilidad, fuerza abdominal y porcentaje de grasa abdominal en pacientes con lumbalgia crónica inespecífica, luego de realizar un programa de entrenamiento de resistencia utilizando dos modalidades diferentes. Métodos: Participaron del estudio 30 personas, entre 18 y 65 años; veinte de los cuales se sometieron a un programa de entrenamiento físico dos veces por semana durante ocho semanas, y diez no realizaron ejercicios físicos, pero recibieron orientación y medicación analgésica. Los individuos físicamente activos se dividieron en dos grupos, al azar, y recibieron un entrenamiento de resistencia similar, centrándose en los mismos grupos musculares. Diez se sometieron a entrenamiento con mancuernas y aparatos de musculación (TRCP) y diez no utilizaron esos equipos, realizando ejercicios funcionales (TRSP). Todos fueron evaluados antes y después de la intervención, mediante cuestionarios de calidad de vida y función, además de pruebas de flexibilidad, fuerza abdominal y medición del porcentaje de grasa abdominal. Resultados: En la comparación intragrupo (inicial x 8 semanas), no hubo cambios significativos en la calidad de vida en ninguno de los grupos. Para la función, los tres grupos mostraron una mejora significativa, con TRSP mostrando una mejor evolución. En cuanto a flexibilidad y aumento de la fuerza abdominal, TRCP se desempeñó mejor en ambos instrumentos. Para disminuir el porcentaje de grasa abdominal, solo TRCP mostró diferencias significativas. En la comparación intergrupal, no hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas para ninguno de los resultados evaluados. Conclusión: Los dos programas de ejercicio fueron efectivos para mejorar la función abdominal, la flexibilidad y la fuerza en pacientes con dolor lumbar crónico inespecífico. Sin embargo, no hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas en ninguno de los resultados en la comparación entre grupos. Nivel de evidencia II, Estudio prospectivo comparativo.

RESUMO Introdução: A disfunção da musculatura do tronco contribui para a persistência da dor em pacientes com lombalgia crônica. As evidências demonstram ser benéfica a abordagem ativa para reabilitação desses pacientes, porém, existem incertezas sobre qual método ou modalidade mais eficaz, uma vez que a literatura existente oferece poucas orientações nesse aspecto. Objetivo: Analisar e comparar o impacto na qualidade de vida, função, flexibilidade, força abdominal e percentual de gordura abdominal em pacientes com lombalgia crônica inespecífica, após a realização de programa de treinamento resistido utilizando duas modalidades diferentes. Métodos: Trinta indivíduos, entre 18 e 65 anos, participaram do estudo; sendo que 20 realizaram um programa de treinamento físico duas vezes por semana, durante oito semanas, e dez não realizaram exercícios físicos, porém receberam orientações e medicação analgésica. Os indivíduos ativos fisicamente foram divididos em dois grupos, aleatoriamente, e receberam treinamento resistido similar focado nos mesmos grupos musculares. Dez realizaram treinamento com halteres e aparelhos de musculação (TRCP) e dez não utilizaram esses equipamentos, realizando apenas exercícios funcionais (TRSP). Todos foram avaliados antes e após a intervenção, por meio de questionários de qualidade de vida e função, além de testes de flexibilidade, força abdominal e mensuração do percentual de gordura abdominal. Resultados: Na comparação intragrupo (inicial x oito semanas), não houve mudança significativa na qualidade de vida de nenhum dos grupos. No entanto, quanto à função, os três grupos apresentaram melhora significativa, com o TRSP demonstrando melhor evolução. Para flexibilidade e ganho de força abdominal, o TRCP demonstrou melhor evolução em ambos os instrumentos. Para diminuição do percentual de gordura abdominal, somente o TRCP apresentou diferenças significativas. Na comparação intergrupos, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa para nenhum dos desfechos avaliados. Conclusão: Os dois programas de exercícios foram eficazes para melhora da função, flexibilidade e força abdominal em pacientes com lombalgia crônica inespecífica. No entanto, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa em nenhum dos desfechos na comparação entre os grupos. Nível de evidência II, Estudo prospectivo comparativo.

Reliability of the goutallier classification system in the evaluation of the multifidus muscle / Concordância da classificação de goutallier na avaliação do músculo multífido / Fiabilidad del sistema de clasificación de goutallier en la evaluación del músculo multífido

ABSTRACT Introduction: The paravertebral musculature is essential for the biomechanics and stability of the spine, and its involvement in the pathophysiology of spinal diseases has been demonstrated. Qualitative evaluation of muscle degeneration is usually performed by analyzing the fat infiltration rate proposed by the Goutallier classification system. Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the intra- and interobserver agreement of the Goutallier Classification for the evaluation of fatty degeneration of the multifidus muscle, using magnetic resonance imaging exams. Methods: The study included 68 patients, all diagnosed with symptomatic disc hernia and indicated for surgery. Preoperative magnetic resonance images were used for the analyses. The images were initially evaluated by two orthopedists and two medical students, and then re-evaluated after two weeks. Intra- and inter-observer reliability analysis was performed using the Fleiss Kappa test and the Landis and Koch criteria. All the analyses were performed using the R statistical environment (R Development Core Team, version 3.3.1, 2016) and the significance level was set at 5%. Results: The percentages of intra- and inter-observer agreement were 86.76% and 61.03%, respectively. The intraobserver agreement was near perfect and the interobserver agreement was moderate. Conclusion: The Goutallier Classification System showed moderate interobserver and intraobserver agreement, being a relevant tool for the evaluation of paravertebral musculature fat replacement. Level of evidence II; Prospective study for diagnostic purposes.

RESUMO Introdução: A musculatura paravertebral é essencial para a biomecânica e estabilidade da coluna e tem sido demonstrado seu envolvimento na fisiopatologia das doenças da coluna vertebral. A avaliação qualitativa da degeneração muscular é usualmente feita pela análise da taxa de infiltração de gordura proposta pelo Sistema de Classificação de Goutallier. Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar a concordância intra e interobservador da Classificação de Goutallier para avaliação da degeneração gordurosa do músculo multífido por meio de exames de ressonância magnética. Métodos: Fizeram parte do estudo 68 pacientes, todos com diagnóstico de hérnia discal sintomática e com indicação cirúrgica. As imagens de ressonância magnética colhidas no pré-operatório foram analisadas por dois ortopedistas e dois estudantes de medicina e foram reavaliadas duas semanas depois. Foi realizada análise de confiabilidade intra e interobservador por meio do teste Kappa de Fleiss e pelos critérios de Landis e Koch. Todas as análises foram realizadas com o auxílio do ambiente estatístico R (R Development Core Team, versão 3.3.1, 2016), e o nível de significância foi fixado em 5%. Resultados: As porcentagens de concordância intra e interobservadores foram, respectivamente, 86,76% e 61,03%. A concordância intraobservador foi quase perfeita e moderada interobservadores. Conclusões: O Sistema de Classificação de Goutallier demonstrou concordância moderada interobservador e intraobservador, sendo uma ferramenta relevante na avaliação da substituição gordurosa da musculatura paravertebral. Nível de evidência II; Estudo prospectivo para fins diagnósticos.

RESUMEN Introducción: La musculatura paravertebral es fundamental para la biomecánica y la estabilidad de la columna y se ha demostrado su intervención en la fisiopatología de las enfermedades de la columna. La evaluación cualitativa de la degeneración muscular se suele realizar analizando la tasa de infiltración de grasa propuesta por el sistema de clasificación de Goutallier. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la concordancia intra e interobservador de la Clasificación de Goutallier para evaluar la degeneración grasa del músculo multífido mediante resonancia magnética. Métodos: Formaron parte del estudio 68 pacientes, todos con diagnóstico de hernia discal sintomática y con indicación quirúrgica. Se utilizaron imágenes de resonancia magnética preoperatorias para el análisis. Las imágenes fueron evaluadas inicialmente por 02 ortopedistas y 02 estudiantes de medicina y, después de dos semanas, reevaluadas. El análisis de fiabilidad intra e interobservador se realizó mediante la prueba Kappa de Fleiss y los criterios de Landis y Koch. Todos los análisis se realizaron utilizando el entorno estadístico R (R Development Core Team, 2016), versión 3.3.1, y el nivel de significancia se estableció en 5%. Resultados: Los porcentajes de concordancia intra e interobservador fueron, respectivamente, 86,76% y 61,03%. La concordancia intraobservador fue casi perfecta y la concordancia interobservador fue moderada. Conclusión: el Sistema de Clasificación de Goutallier demostró una moderada concordancia interobservador e intraobservador, siendo una herramienta relevante en la evaluación del reemplazo graso de la musculatura paravertebral. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudio prospectivo con fines diagnósticos.

Candida parapsilosis Infection after Lumbosacral Arthrodesis with a PEEK TLIF Interbody Fusion Device: Case Report / Infecção por Candida parapsilosis em pós-operatório de artrodese lombossacra com dispositivo de fusão intersomático TLIF em PEEK: Relato de caso

Abstract Spondylodiscitis is an uncommon but serious complication after spine surgeries, and its main etiologic agent is Staphylococcus aureus. Fungal infections are rare and mostly caused by Candida albicans. We report the clinical case of a 69-year-old male patient who underwent a L2-S1 arthrodesis for degenerative scoliosis correction. He presented an infection 2.5 months after the procedure, a spondylodiscitis at L5-S1 levels, caused by Candida parapsilosis. The treatment consisted of surgical material removal, tricortical iliac graft placement in an anterior approach (L5-S1), lumbopelvic fixation (from T10 to the pelvis) in a posterior approach, and drug treatment with anidulafungin and fluconazole. This last medication was administered for 12 months, with good clinical outcomes.

Resumo As espondilodiscites são complicações infrequentes, porém graves em pós-operatórios de cirurgias da coluna vertebral, tendo como principal agente etiológico o Staphylococcus aureus. As infecções fúngicas são raras, sendo a Candida albicans a principal representante desse grupo. Relatamos o caso clínico de um paciente do sexo masculino, 69 anos, operado com artrodese de L2 a S1 para correção de escoliose degenerativa. O paciente apresentou quadro clínico infeccioso 2 meses e meio após o procedimento, relacionado à espondilodiscite L5-S1, causada por Candida parapsilosis. O tratamento consistiu na remoção do material cirúrgico, colocação de enxerto tricortical de ilíaco pela via anterior (L5-S1) e fixação lombopélvica (de T10 à pelve) pela via posterior, além de iniciar o tratamento medicamentoso com anidulafungina e fluconazol, mantendo essa última medicação por 12 meses, com boa evolução clínica.

Correlation between degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine and types of lumbar lordosis / Correlação entre doenças degenerativas da coluna lombar e os tipos de lordose lombar / Correlación entre las enfermedades degenerativas de la columna lumbar y los tipos de lordosis lumbar

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluate the relationship between the incidence of different types of degenerative diseases of the spine and lumbopelvic biomechanics, according to the types of lordosis of Roussouly's classification. Methods: Retrospective study of medical records and results of imaging exams of patients seen at a private hospital in São Paulo. The sagittal alignment of these patients was evaluated by classifying them according to Roussouly into 4 types, based on panoramic radiographs of the spine. These results were correlated with the patient's degenerative diagnosis (Herniated disc, Canal stenosis, Spondylolisthesis, degenerative discopathy and Facet arthrosis). Statistical tests were performed comparing the types of curvature and diagnoses identified. Results: 418 patients were evaluated, 51.4% male and 49.6% female. The vast majority of patients, about 54%, had a diagnosis of herniated lumbar disc. There was a statistically significant difference that showed a predilection for surgical treatment in cases classified as Type I and Type II in the Roussouly classification. There was no statistically significant difference that correlated the types of lumbar lordosis with the diagnosis presented by the patients. Conclusion: There is no statistically significant difference that correlates the type of lumbar lordosis according to Roussouly with lumbar degenerative diseases. In contrast, patients classified as Type 1 and Type 2 by Roussouly underwent a greater number of surgical treatments compared to patients type 3 and 4, with statistical relevance. Level of evidence 2; Retrospective prognostic study.

RESUMO Objetivos: Avaliar a relação da incidência dos diferentes tipos de doenças degenerativas da coluna com a biomecânica lombopélvica, de acordo com os tipos de lordose segundo Roussouly. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo de prontuários médicos e de resultados de exames de imagens de pacientes atendidos em um hospital privado de São Paulo. Foi avaliado o alinhamento sagital desses pacientes classificando-os de acordo com Roussouly em 4 tipos, com base nas radiografias panorâmicas da coluna vertebral. Esses resultados foram correlacionados com o diagnóstico degenerativo do paciente (Hérnia de disco, Estenose do canal, Espondilolistese, Discopatia degenerativa e Artrose facetaria). Testes estatísticos foram realizados comparando os tipos de curvatura e diagnósticos identificados. Resultados: Foram avaliados 418 pacientes, sendo que 51,4% do sexo masculino e 49,6% do sexo feminino. A grande maioria dos pacientes, cerca de 54%, apresentavam como diagnóstico hérnia de disco lombar. Houve uma diferença estatisticamente significativa que evidenciou uma predileção do tratamento cirúrgico nos casos classificados como Tipo I e Tipo II na classificação de Roussouly. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa que correlacionasse os tipos de lordose lombar com o diagnóstico apresentado pelos pacientes. Conclusões: Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa que correlacione o tipo de lordose lombar de acordo com Roussouly com as doenças degenerativas lombares. Em contrapartida, os pacientes classificados como Tipo 1 e Tipo 2 de Roussouly foram submetidos em maior número ao tratamento cirúrgico em comparação com os pacientes tipo 3 e 4, com relevância estatística. Nível de evidência 2; Estudo prognóstico retrospectivo.

RESUMEN Objetivos: Evaluar la relación entre la incidencia de diferentes tipos de enfermedades degenerativas de la columna y la biomecánica lumbopélvica, según los tipos de lordosis de Roussouly. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de registros médicos y resultados de exámenes de imágenes de pacientes atendidos en un hospital privado en São Paulo. La alineación sagital de estos pacientes se evaluó clasificándolos según Roussouly en 4 tipos, en base a radiografías panorámicas de la columna vertebral. Estos resultados se correlacionaron con el diagnóstico degenerativo del paciente (disco herniado, estenosis del canal, espondilolistesis, discopatía degenerativa y artrosis facetaria). Se realizaron pruebas estadísticas comparando los tipos de curvatura y los diagnósticos identificados. Resultados: Se evaluaron 418 pacientes, 51.4% hombres y 49.6% mujeres. La gran mayoría de los pacientes, alrededor del 54%, tenían un diagnóstico de hernia de disco lumbar. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa que mostró una predilección por el tratamiento quirúrgico en los casos clasificados como Tipo I y Tipo II en la clasificación de Roussouly. No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas que correlacionaran los tipos de lordosis lumbar con el diagnóstico presentado por los pacientes. Conclusión: No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas que correlacionen el tipo de lordosis lumbar según Roussouly con las enfermedades degenerativas lumbares. En contraste, los pacientes clasificados como Tipo 1 y Tipo 2 por Roussouly se sometieron a un mayor número de tratamientos quirúrgicos en comparación con los pacientes tipo 3 y 4, con relevancia estadística. Nivel de evidencia 2; Estudo de pronostico retrospectivo.

Posttraumatic Arachnoid Cyst in the Thoracic Spine with Medullary Compression: Case Report.

Arachnoid cysts are rare; they can occur at all levels of the dural sac, and can have a congenital, traumatic, iatrogenic or inflammatory origin. In the present article, we report a patient presenting a compressive thoracic myelopathy due to an unusual intradural arachnoid cyst with posttraumatic manifestation and its resolution, in addition to a literature review on the subject. These cysts mainly occur at the thoracic spine, followed by the lumbar, lumbosacral and thoracolumbar spines. Traumatic cysts are caused by an injury to the inner dural layer. These lesions produce neurological deficits through a mass effect on the spinal cord. Concomitant compressive myelopathy is even rarer. In case of myelopathy, cyst resection or drainage is the treatment of choice, and it must be performed immediately. Although rare, arachnoid cysts can be a complication of spine fractures; as such, orthopedists and neurosurgeons, who commonly see these injuries, must be prepared for this unusual situation.

Posttraumatic Arachnoid Cyst in the Thoracic Spine with Medullary Compression: Case Report / Cisto aracnóide após trauma na coluna torácica com compressão medular: Relato de caso

Abstract Arachnoid cysts are rare; they can occur at all levels of the dural sac, and can have a congenital, traumatic, iatrogenic or inflammatory origin. In the present article, we report a patient presenting a compressive thoracic myelopathy due to an unusual intradural arachnoid cyst with posttraumatic manifestation and its resolution, in addition to a literature review on the subject. These cysts mainly occur at the thoracic spine, followed by the lumbar, lumbosacral and thoracolumbar spines. Traumatic cysts are caused by an injury to the inner dural layer. These lesions produce neurological deficits through a mass effect on the spinal cord. Concomitant compressive myelopathy is even rarer. In case of myelopathy, cyst resection or drainage is the treatment of choice, and it must be performed immediately. Although rare, arachnoid cysts can be a complication of spine fractures; as such, orthopedists and neurosurgeons, who commonly see these injuries, must be prepared for this unusual situation.

Resumo Cistos aracnóides são raros, podem ocorrer em todos os níveis do saco dural, e sua origem pode ser congênita, traumática, iatrogênica ou inflamatória. Neste artigo, relatamos o caso de uma paciente com mielopatia torácica compressiva decorrente de um cisto aracnóide intradural incomum, de manifestação pós-traumática, assim como sua resolução, além de realizar revisão da literatura sobre o tema. A principal localização é na coluna torácica, seguida das colunas lombar, lombossacra e toracolombar. O cisto com origem traumática é causado por lesão da camada interna da dura-máter. Essas lesões produzem déficit neurológico por meio de efeito de massa sobre a medula espinhal. A existência de mielopatia compressiva associada é mais rara ainda. A ressecção ou drenagem dos cistos na vigência de mielopatia deve ser imediata, sendo o tratamento de escolha. Apesar de raros, podem ser uma complicação de fraturas da coluna vertebral que são muito comuns na prática de ortopedistas e neurocirurgiões, que devem estar preparados para essa situação incomum.

Correlation between previous sedentary lifestyle and CrossFit-related injuries / Correlação entre sedentarismo prévio e lesões relacionadas ao CrossFit

ABSTRACT: Objective: To correlate CrossFit-related injuries with previous sedentary lifestyle, and to investigate other factors potentially associated with higher rates of injury among practitioners. Methods: A nationwide cross-sectional study involving CrossFit practitioners who received a digital questionnaire inquiring into CrossFit-related injuries, previous sedentary life, training intensity and experience, site of injury and general demographics. Results: This sample included 121 CrossFit practitioners, 34.7% of participants were sedentary prior to starting CrossFit practice, from these, 45.2% reported CrossFit-related injuries, compared to 30.4% from previously active practitioners (p=0.104). The shoulder/elbow (60.5%), lumbar spine (30.3%) and wrist/hand (16.3%) were the most common sites of injury among participants reporting CrossFit-related injuries (35.5%). Participants performing intense weight training were more prone to injuries than those practicing light or moderate weight training (p=0.043). On average, participants with a history of injury spent significantly more time training than those with no history of injury (68.4 and 61.7 minutes, respectively; p=0.044). Conclusion: The incidence of CrossFit-related injuries did not differ significantly between previously sedentary and physically active participants. Intense weight training was associated with a higher incidence of injuries. The overall injury rate was 35.5%, similar to that found in previous studies, and the most common site of injury was shoulder/elbow.

RESUMO Objetivo: Correlacionar as lesões durante a prática do CrossFit com sedentarismo prévio e pesquisar outros fatores possivelmente relacionados ao aumento da taxa de lesão entre os praticantes. Métodos: Estudo transversal nacional, envolvendo praticantes de CrossFit, que receberam questionário digital para avaliar lesões relacionadas à prática da modalidade, à vida sedentária anterior, a intensidade e tempo de treinamento, à localização da lesão e à demografia geral. Resultados: Esta amostra incluiu 121 praticantes de CrossFit, 34,7% dos participantes eram sedentários antes de iniciar o CrossFit, desses, 45,2% sofreram alguma lesão relacionada a essa atividade, versus 30,4% dos que eram anteriormente ativos (p=0,104). Dos praticantes avaliados, 35,5% declararam história de alguma lesão relacionada ao CrossFit. Os locais mais frequentes foram ombro e cotovelo (60,5%), coluna lombar (30,3%), e punho e mão (16,3%). Os participantes que realizam levantamento de peso de forma intensa estiveram mais propensos a lesões do que aqueles que realizavam treinamento leve ou moderado (p=0,043). Os participantes com história de lesão apresentaram tempo médio de treinamento significativamente maior quando comparados àqueles sem antecedente de lesão (68,4 minutos versus 61,7 minutos; p=0,044). Conclusão: Não houve diferença significativa na incidência de lesões relacionadas ao CrossFit entre participantes previamente sedentários e fisicamente ativos. O levantamento intenso de pesos esteve relacionado à maior incidência de lesões. A taxa média de lesões encontradas neste estudo foi de 35,5%, semelhante a encontrada em estudos prévios. O local mais frequente foi ombro/cotovelo.

Extreme lateral interbody fusion in pacients with chronic low back pain / Fusão intersomática por via extremo lateral em pacientes com lombalgia crônica

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effect of lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) or oblique interbody fusion (OLIF) on low back pain due to degenerative intervertebral disc disease. Methods: We systematically reviewed articles on surgical treatment of low back pain by LLIF and OLIF, according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We searched through electronic databases, including Medline via PubMed, Lilacs through the Virtual Health Library (VHL), Cochrane Collaboration/Central and Cohrane/Dare Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, without language or publication date restrictions and with design for prospective cohorts and randomized clinical trials. Results: We have selected and presented three studies. Conclusion: The literature review showed great relevance in the improvement of the new surgical approach (LLIF) in relation to TLIF, but greater content availability in the databases is necessary to reach a satisfactory conclusion regarding the efficiency of the lateral approach and its advantages over other traditional procedures. Level of Evidence II, Systematic review of Level II studies.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da técnica de fusão intersomática lateral lombar (LLIF) ou da fusão intersomática obliqua (OLIF) na lombalgia em decorrência de doença degenerativa do disco intervertebral. Método: Revisamos estudos de abordagem cirúrgica LLIF e OLIF, de acordo com o Manual Cochrane para Revisões Sistemáticas de Intervenções. A busca foi realizada, por meio de bases de dados eletrônicos, incluindo Medline via PubMed, Lilacs via Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), Registro de ensaios Controlados da Colaboração Cochrane/Central e Cohrane/Dare, sem restrições de idiomas ou de data de publicações e com delineamento para coortes prospectivos e ensaios clínicos randomizados. Resultados: Selecionamos e apresentamos três estudos. Conclusão: Houve relevância na melhora da nova abordagem cirúrgica (LLIF) em relação à abordagem tradicional, porém é necessário maior disponibilidade de conteúdo nas bases de dados para que seja obtida conclusão quanto à eficiência da via lateral e seus benefícios em relação às demais abordagens tradicionais. Nível de Evidência II, Revisão sistemática de Estudos de Nível II.

Association of low back pain and sciatica with signal changes in the vertebral endplate / Associação da dor lombar e ciática a alterações de imagem na placa vertebral terminal / Asociación del dolor lumbar y ciático con alteraciones de imagen en la placa vertebral terminal

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate whether vertebral endplate signal changes (VESCs) influence the prognosis of patients submitted to conservative or surgical treatment for low back pain and lumbosciatica. Methods Study with 241 patients who underwent conservative treatment, infiltration or surgery with 12 months of follow-up. They were evaluated for pain by the Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS), for function by the Roland Morris questionnaire and for quality of life by the EuroQoI5 (EQ-5D). Results The VESCs did not have a significant effect on the treatment responses for the VAS (F = 0.03; P = 0.97), Roland Morris (F = 0.51; P = 0.60) and EQ-5D (F = 2.67; P = 0.07) variables, nor was there any interaction between VESC and treatment for VAS (F = 2.15; P = 0.08), Roland Morris (F = 1.55; P = 0.19) and EQ-5D (F = 2.15; P = 0.08). There was a significant effect for all treatments, however, the effect of the surgical procedure was superior when compared to the others (P <0.001). The VESC frequency was 48.33% for type 0, 29.17% for type I and 22.50% for type II. Conclusions The presence of VESC and its different types is not associated with a worse prognosis, nor was a higher prevalence of VESC observed in the patients with low back pain and lumbosciatica. Level of Evidence II; Retrospective cohort study.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar se as alterações de sinal do platô vertebral (ASPV) influenciam o prognóstico de pacientes submetidos ao tratamento conservador ou cirúrgico em lombalgia e lombociatalgia. Métodos Estudo com 241 pacientes submetidos ao tratamento conservador, infiltração ou cirurgia, com acompanhamento de 12 meses. Foram avaliados pela Escala Visual Analógica (EVA) da Dor, quanto à função, pelo questionário Roland Morris e quanto à qualidade de vida, pelo questionário EuroQoI5 (EQ-5D). Resultados As ASPV não tiveram efeito significante nas respostas do tratamento para as variáveis EVA (F = 0,03; P = 0,97), Roland Morris (F = 0,51; P = 0,60) e EQ-5D (F = 2,67; P = 0,07), bem como não houve interação de ASPV e tratamento para EVA (F = 2,15; P = 0,08), Roland Morris (F = 1,55; P = 0,19) e EQ-5D (F = 2,15; P = 0,08). Houve efeito significante para todos os tratamentos; entretanto, o efeito do procedimento cirúrgico foi superior quando comparado aos demais (P < 0,001). A frequência de ASPV tipo 0 foi 48,33%, tipo I foi 29,17% e tipo II foi 22,50%. Conclusões A presença de ASPV e seus diferentes tipos não estão associados a prognóstico pior, bem como não se demonstrou maior prevalência de ASPV nos pacientes com lombalgia e lombociatalgia. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo de coorte retrospectivo.

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar si las alteraciones de señal de la meseta vertebral (ASMV) influyen en el pronóstico de los pacientes sometidos a tratamiento conservador o quirúrgico en lumbalgia y lumbociatalgia. Métodos Estudio con 241 pacientes sometidos al tratamiento conservador, infiltración o cirugía, con acompañamiento de 12 meses. Se evaluaron a través de la Escala Visual Analógica del Dolor (EVA), cuanto a la función, por el cuestionario Roland Morris y cuanto a la calidad de vida por el cuestionario EuroQoI5 (EQ-5D). Resultados Las ASMV no tuvieron efecto significativo en las respuestas del tratamiento para las variables EVA (F = 0,03; P = 0,97), Roland Morris (F = 0,51; P = 0,60) y EQ-5D (F = 2,67; P = 0,07), así como no hubo interacción de ASMV y tratamiento para EVA (F = 2,15; P = 0,08), Roland Morris (F = 1,55; P = 0,19) y EQ-5D (F = 2,15; P = 0,08). Hubo efecto significativo para todos los procedimientos, entretanto, el efecto del procedimiento quirúrgico fue superior cuando comparado a los demás (P <0,001). La frecuencia de ASMV para el tipo 0 fue 48,33%, tipo I 29,17% y tipo II 22,50%. Conclusiones La presencia de ASMV y sus diferentes tipos no están asociados a pronóstico peor, bien como no se demostró mayor prevalencia de ASMV en los pacientes con lumbalgia y lumbociatalgia. Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.

Assessment of fatty infiltration of the multifidus muscle in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis through evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging compared with histological analysis: a diagnostic accuracy study.

To evaluate fat infiltration in the multifidus muscle close to the scoliotic curve as seen in MRI compared with the histological evaluation in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The evaluation of fatty infiltration in the multifidus muscle of patients with AIS by MRI was compared with biopsy. Fatty infiltration was greater in concave side than in the convex side in both MRI (P=0.005) and biopsy evaluation (P=0.026). There was no correlation between the fatty infiltration findings evaluated through MRI and biopsy. The MRI measurements do not express accurately the tissue changes observed in the biopsy.

Home-based exercise therapy for treating non-specific chronic low back pain

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE To evaluate pain, functional capacity, and quality of life of patients with non-specific chronic low back pain, after home-based exercise therapy with different kinds of supervision. METHOD Thirty individuals of both gender, between 18 and 65 years old, performed the proposed exercises three times a week, for eight weeks. Group A (N = 17) performed the exercises after a single supervised session. Group B (N = 13) was supervised once a week at the rehabilitation center. Both groups received a booklet with instructions, and questionnaires to evaluate pain, functional capacity and quality of life; during the initial evaluation, after four and eight weeks. RESULTS There was an improvement in pain and functional capacity between the initial evaluation and week 4, and the initial evaluation and week 8 in both groups (p <0.05). In the quality of life evaluation, the criteria for pain, functional capacity, and physical aspects had significant improvement after 8 weeks (p <0.05). There was no difference when comparing groups A and B (p >0,05). CONCLUSION Home-based exercise therapy, when performed in a period of eight weeks, using the booklet, was effective for improving level of pain, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain. The weekly supervision did not significantly influence the final outcome between the groups.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar dor, capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida de pacientes com dor lombar crônica inespecífica após terapia por exercícios domiciliares, com diferentes maneiras de supervisão. MÉTODO Trinta indivíduos de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 18 e 65 anos, apresentando dor lombar crônica inespecífica, realizaram os exercícios propostos três vezes por semana, durante oito semanas. Indivíduos do Grupo A (N=17) realizaram os exercícios após única sessão supervisionada. Já os indivíduos do Grupo B (N=13) foram supervisionados uma vez por semana no centro de reabilitação. Ambos receberam cartilha com orientações e questionários para avaliar dor, capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida; durante avaliação inicial, após quatro e oito semanas. RESULTADOS Houve melhora da dor e capacidade funcional entre as avaliações inicial e semana 4, e inicial e semana 8 nos dois grupos (p<0,05). Na avaliação de qualidade de vida (SF-36), os critérios de dor, capacidade funcional e aspectos físicos obtiveram melhora significativa após oito semanas (p<0,05). Não houve diferença significativa ao comparar os grupos (p>0,05). CONCLUSÃO A terapia por exercícios domiciliares, quando realizada num período de oito semanas, com auxílio da cartilha, foi eficaz para melhora da dor, capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida, em pacientes com dor lombar crônica inespecífica. A supervisão semanal não influenciou de forma significativa o resultado final quando comparados os grupos.

Subclinical Propionibacterium acnes infection estimation in the intervertebral disc (SPInE-ID): protocol for a prospective cohort.

INTRODUCTION: Low back pain and vertebral endplate abnormalities are common conditions within the population. Subclinical infection caused by indolent pathogens can potentially lead to these findings, with differentiation between them notably challenging from a clinical perspective. Progressive infection of the intervertebral disc has been extensively associated with increasing low back pain, with Propionibacterium acnes specifically implicated with in relation to sciatica. The main purpose of this study is to identify if the presence of an infective pathogen within the intervertebral disc is primary or is a result of intraoperative contamination, and whether this correlates to low back pain. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: An open prospective cohort study will be performed. Subjects included within the study will be between the ages of 18 and 65 years and have a diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation requiring open decompression surgery. Excised herniated disc fragments, muscle and ligamentum flavum samples will be collected during surgery and sent to microbiology for tissue culture and pathogen identification. Score questionnaires for pain, functionality and quality of life will be given preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. A MRI will be performed 12 months after surgery for analysis of Modic changes and baseline comparison. The primary endpoint is the rate of disc infection in patients with symptomatic degenerative disc disease. The secondary endpoints will be performance scores, Modic incidence and volume. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study was approved by our Institutional Review Board and was only initiated after it (CAAE 65102617.2.0000.0071). Patients agreeing to participate will sign an informed consent form before entering the study. Results will be published in a peer reviewed medical journal irrespective of study findings. If shown to be the case, this would have profound effects on the way physicians treat chronic low back pain, even impacting health costs. TRIALS REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT0315876; Pre-results.