Randomized Clinical Trials and Observational Tribulations: Providing Clinical Evidence for Personalized Surgical Pain Management Care Models.

Proving clinical superiority of personalized care models in interventional and surgical pain management is challenging. The apparent difficulties may arise from the inability to standardize complex surgical procedures that often involve multiple steps. Ensuring the surgery is performed the same way every time is nearly impossible. Confounding factors, such as the variability of the patient population and selection bias regarding comorbidities and anatomical variations are also difficult to control for. Small sample sizes in study groups comparing iterations of a surgical protocol may amplify bias. It is essentially impossible to conceal the surgical treatment from the surgeon and the operating team. Restrictive inclusion and exclusion criteria may distort the study population to no longer reflect patients seen in daily practice. Hindsight bias is introduced by the inability to effectively blind patient group allocation, which affects clinical result interpretation, particularly if the outcome is already known to the investigators when the outcome analysis is performed (often a long time after the intervention). Randomization is equally problematic, as many patients want to avoid being randomly assigned to a study group, particularly if they perceive their surgeon to be unsure of which treatment will likely render the best clinical outcome for them. Ethical concerns may also exist if the study involves additional and unnecessary risks. Lastly, surgical trials are costly, especially if the tested interventions are complex and require long-term follow-up to assess their benefit. Traditional clinical testing of personalized surgical pain management treatments may be more challenging because individualized solutions tailored to each patient's pain generator can vary extensively. However, high-grade evidence is needed to prompt a protocol change and break with traditional image-based criteria for treatment. In this article, the authors review issues in surgical trials and offer practical solutions.

Microendoscopic Surgery for Degenerative Disorders of the Cervical and Lumbar Spine: The Influence of the Tubular Workspace on Instrument Angulation, Clinical Outcome, Complications, and Reoperation Rates.

BACKGROUND: Long-term clinical outcomes with microendoscopic spine surgery (MESS) are poorly investigated. The effect of instrument angulation on clinical outcomes has yet to be assessed. METHODS: A total of 229 consecutive patients operated on via two MESS systems were analyzed. Instrument angulation for both MESS systems, which differ from each other regarding the working space for instruments, was assessed using a computer model. Patients' charts and endoscopic video recordings were reviewed to determine clinical outcomes, complications, and revision surgery rates. At a minimum follow-up of two years, clinical outcomes were assessed employing the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). RESULTS: A total of 52 posterior cervical foraminotomies (PCF) and 177 lumbar decompression procedures were performed. The mean follow-up was six years (range 2-9 years). At the final follow-up, 69% of cervical and 76% of lumbar patients had no radicular pain. The mean NDI was 10%, and the mean ODI was 12%. PCF resulted in excellent clinical outcomes in 80% of cases and 87% of lumbar procedures. Recurrent disc herniations occurred in 7.7% of patients. The surgical time and repeated procedure rate were significantly lower for the MESS system with increased working space, whereas the clinical outcome and rate of complication were similar. CONCLUSIONS: MESS achieves high success rates for treating degenerative spinal disorders in the long term. Increased instrument angulation improves access to the compressive pathology and lowers the surgical time and repeated procedure rate.

The Changing Environment in Postgraduate Education in Orthopedic Surgery and Neurosurgery and Its Impact on Technology-Driven Targeted Interventional and Surgical Pain Management: Perspectives from Europe, Latin America, Asia, and The United States.

Personalized care models are dominating modern medicine. These models are rooted in teaching future physicians the skill set to keep up with innovation. In orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery, education is increasingly influenced by augmented reality, simulation, navigation, robotics, and in some cases, artificial intelligence. The postpandemic learning environment has also changed, emphasizing online learning and skill- and competency-based teaching models incorporating clinical and bench-top research. Attempts to improve work-life balance and minimize physician burnout have led to work-hour restrictions in postgraduate training programs. These restrictions have made it particularly challenging for orthopedic and neurosurgery residents to acquire the knowledge and skill set to meet the requirements for certification. The fast-paced flow of information and the rapid implementation of innovation require higher efficiencies in the modern postgraduate training environment. However, what is taught typically lags several years behind. Examples include minimally invasive tissue-sparing techniques through tubular small-bladed retractor systems, robotic and navigation, endoscopic, patient-specific implants made possible by advances in imaging technology and 3D printing, and regenerative strategies. Currently, the traditional roles of mentee and mentor are being redefined. The future orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons involved in personalized surgical pain management will need to be versed in several disciplines ranging from bioengineering, basic research, computer, social and health sciences, clinical study, trial design, public health policy development, and economic accountability. Solutions to the fast-paced innovation cycle in orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery include adaptive learning skills to seize opportunities for innovation with execution and implementation by facilitating translational research and clinical program development across traditional boundaries between clinical and nonclinical specialties. Preparing the future generation of surgeons to have the aptitude to keep up with the rapid technological advances is challenging for postgraduate residency programs and accreditation agencies. However, implementing clinical protocol change when the entrepreneur-investigator surgeon substantiates it with high-grade clinical evidence is at the heart of personalized surgical pain management.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with a dynamic translational plating versus a rigid carbon fiber reinforced PEEK plating system - a comparison study of radiographic parameters.

PURPOSE: In this study the authors compare the radiographic findings of patients undergoing 1-3 level ACDF a rigid CFRP plate and a translational titanium plate system with a focus on radiographic alignment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective review 70 consecutive patients undergoing a 1 to 3 level ACDF for cervical spondylosis was conducted. 2 groups depending on the cervical plating system were created including 38 patients in group 1 (dynamic plate) and 32 in group 2 (rigid CFRP plate). Plain neutral radiographs preoperatively, immediately after surgery and at most recent follow-up were used to assess parameters on sagittal alignment, fusion height, adjacent segment ossification (ASO), fusion rate and implant failure. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between groups preoperatively. Both groups had a more than 12 months follow-up (p = 0.327). Improvement of C2-7 lordosis was seen in both groups but only in group 1 it reached statistical significance at final follow-up. Significant improvement in sagittal segmental alignment was noted in both groups following surgery. A significant sagittal correction of 5.5 ± 9.1 degrees (p = 0.002) was maintained through follow-up only in group 2. No significantly different was seen for segmental fusion rates and loss of fusion height. There were no instances of implant failure within both groups. Worsening of ASO was 20% for both groups. CONCLUSION: ACDF allows for correction and maintenance of cervical alignment. Rigid rigid plate appears more effective at maintaining segmental lordotic correction. The fusion rate and implant failure was not different for both groups.

The Surgical Treatment of Pyogenic Spondylodiscitis using Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polyether Ether Ketone Implants: Personal Experience of a Series of 81 Consecutive Patients.

BACKGROUND: Pyogenic spondylodiscitis (PSD) is a complex disorder that often required postoperative imaging. Carbon-fiber-reinforced polyether ether ketone (CFRP) is radiolucent and offers an optimal assessability of anatomic structures. METHODS: A retrospective file review of patients who were operated on for PSD using CFRP implants was performed to assess the clinical outcome, implant-associated complications, and revision surgery. A minimum follow-up of 3 months was required for evaluation of clinical and radiographic data, which included computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment, to determine implant stability and assessability of soft tissue and nerve structures using a grading system. RESULTS: Eighty-one consecutive patients with a mean of 69.5 years were identified. Debridement and stabilization were performed in 8 cervical, 17 thoracic, and 57 lumbar procedures; 72 interbody fusion procedures using cages were performed. Intraoperatively, no implant-associated complication was noted. The mean follow-up was 7 months, at which 52 patients attended. Improved mobility and reduced pain levels were reported by 87%, and MRI assessability was graded ideal. Residual sign of infection was seen in 5 cases, which influenced antibiotic therapy. Asymptomatic radiolucent zones were identified in 13 patients (16%) and screw loosening in 2 (2.4%). In 1 patient, the pedicle screw tip broke and remained within the vertebral body. A repeated procedure because of progressive vertebral body destruction, implant loosening, or subsidence was performed in 5 patients (6.1%). CONCLUSIONS: The surgical treatment of PSD using CFRP is safe. The repeat procedure rate as a result of implant loosening is 6.1%. Minimal artifacts offer ideal assessability of soft tissue structures on an MRI.

Is Decompression and Partial Discectomy Advantageous Over Decompression Alone in Microendoscopic Decompression Of Monosegmental Unilateral Lumbar Recess Stenosis?

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic techniques are well accepted as surgical technique for decompression of lumbar lateral recess stenosis (LRS). It is uncertain if there is a difference in clinical outcome for decompression alone (DA) or decompression with partial discectomy (DPD) for the treatment of LRS. METHODS: All files of patients who underwent an endoscopic procedure for lumbar LRS were identified from a prospectively collected database. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging and endoscopic video were analyzed with special focus on the technique of nerve root decompression. Clinical outcome was assessed via a personal examination, a standardized questionnaire including the numeric rating scale (NRS) for leg and back pain, the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and the modified MacNab criteria to assess functional outcome and clinical success. RESULTS: Sixty-six patients were identified of which 57 attended for evaluation (86.4%). DA was performed in 15 (26.3%) patients and DPD in 42 patients (73.7%). The mean follow-up was 45.0 months (range: 16-82 months). Fifty-two patients reported to be free of leg pain (91.1%), 42 patients had no noticeable back pain (73.7%), 49 patients had full muscle strength (85.9%), and 48 patients had no sensory disturbance (84.2%). The mean NRS for leg pain was 1, the mean NRS for back pain was 2, mean ODI was 16% (range: 0%-60%). Clinical success was noted in 49 patients (85.9%) and it was significantly higher for patients following DPD (P = .024). The overall repeat procedure rate was 12% with reoperation rate at the index segment in 10.5% of cases. There were no significant differences with respect to leg and back pain, ODI, and reoperation between both groups. CONCLUSION: Microendoscopic DPD of LRS achieves a 92% clinical success rate which is significantly higher compared to 67% clinical success achieved by DA. There was no significant difference for the rate of reoperation, leg and back pain, and ODI. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

Preoperative Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Improves Gross Total Resection Rates in Patients with Motor-Eloquent High-Grade Gliomas: A Matched Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) is an established, noninvasive tool to preoperatively map the motor cortex. Despite encouraging reports from few academic centers with vast nTMS experience, its value for motor-eloquent brain surgery still requires further exploration. OBJECTIVE: To further elucidate the role of preoperative nTMS in motor-eloquent brain surgery. METHODS: Patients who underwent surgery for a motor-eloquent supratentorial glioma or metastasis guided by preoperative nTMS were retrospectively reviewed. The nTMS group (n = 105) was pair-matched to controls (non-nTMS group, n = 105). Gross total resection (GTR) and motor outcome were evaluated. Subgroup analyses including survival analysis for WHO III/IV glioma were performed. RESULTS: GTR was significantly more frequently achieved in the entire nTMS group compared to the non-nTMS group (P = .02). Motor outcome did not differ (P = .344). Bootstrap analysis confirmed these findings. In the metastases subgroup, GTR rates and motor outcomes were equal. In the WHO III/IV glioma subgroup, however, GTR was achieved more frequently in the nTMS group (72.3%) compared to non-nTMS group (53.2%) (P = .049), whereas motor outcomes did not differ (P = .521). In multivariable Cox-regression analysis, prolonged survival in WHO III/IV glioma was significantly associated with achievement of GTR and younger patient age but not nTMS mapping. CONCLUSION: Preoperative nTMS improves GTR rates without jeopardizing neurological function. In WHO III/IV glioma surgery, nTMS increases GTR rates that might translate into a beneficial overall survival. The value of nTMS in the setting of a potential survival benefit remains to be determined.

3D-exoscopic visualization using the VITOM-3D in cranial and spinal neurosurgery. What are the limitations?

OBJECTIVE: 3D exoscopic visualization in neurosurgical procedures is of interest for several reasons. The VITOM-3D exoscopic system is cheaper compared to the operating microscope (OM) and offers each person involved in the procedure the same image of the operative field. Little is known of limitations of this visualization technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospectively, a consecutive series 34 procedures were assessed with focus on the following aspects: intraoperative limitation and the cause for a switch to the OM or endoscopy. A standardized questionnaire was answered by each individual involved in the procedure to assess the image quality, illumination, and magnification of the operative field. Intraoperative video recording and pre- and postoperative MRI and CT-scan were analyzed to assess the dimensions of the surgical approach. RESULTS: Sixteen cranial and 18 spinal procedures (10 intra-axial, 6 extra-axial, 6 cervical, and 12 lumbar) were performed by seven neurosurgical attendings, twelve residents and twelve scrub nurses who all completed a standardized questionnaire after each procedure. Handling and identification of anatomical structures was rated equal or superior to the OM in 62 % and over 80 % of cases, respectively. The illumination and magnification of the operative field on the surface was rate in equal od superior in all cases and on the depth it was rated inferior to the OM over 60 % of cases. In one spinal and five cranial procedures a switch to the OM or endoscope were performed for the following reasons: poor illumination (4 cases), tissue identification (1 case), need for fluorescence imaging (1 case). CONCLUSION: 3D exoscopic visualization using the VITOM-3D is best suited for spinal procedures and for extra-axial cranial procedures. In case of small approach dimensions, the illumination and magnification of the depth of the operative field is rated inferior to the OM which resulted in difficulty of tissue identification and a switch to the OM.

Adjacent segment disease following anterior cervical fusion and the presence of surgery for lumbar disc herniation and surgery at the musculoskeletal joints: are they related?

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: A potential correlation between surgery for symptomatic adjacent segment degeneration (sASD) and the development of degenerative disease of the lumbar spine or osteoarthritis of the musculoskeletal joints remains to be determined. PURPOSE: To assess the rate of sASD following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), the rate of lumbar discectomy (LD), and rate of surgery performed for osteoarthritis at the joints of the musculoskeletal in a long term follow-up. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Cohort study OUTCOME MEASURES: Repeat procedure for sASD, microsurgical LD (MSD), and/or the musculoskeletal joints (shoulder, knee, hip). PATIENT SAMPLE: Retrospectively, a total of 833 consecutive patients who underwent ACDF for degenerative disorders ≥20 years ago were identified. Charts were reviewed for preoperative neurological status, smoking status, physical labor, and repeat procedures. Missing data lead to exclusion from follow-up assessment. METHODS: At final follow-up the need for pain medication, Neck disability index (NDI), and Odoms criteria were evaluated. An MRI was performed to assess the grade of degeneration of the cervical spine via the segmental degeneration index (SDI). Patients without (group 1) and with (group 2) repeat procedure for sASD were compared. RESULTS: Collectively, 313 patients met inclusion criteria and 136 patients were evaluated. The mean follow-up was 26 years. Clinical success rate according to Odoms was 85.3%, mean NDI was 14.4%, the rate of regular intake of pain medication was 14.7%, the rate of repeated procedure for sASD was 10.3%. MSD was performed in 23.5%, surgery for osteoarthritis of the shoulder, the hip, and the knee were performed in 11.8%, 6.9%, and 27.7%, respectively. The rate of MSD (p=.018) was significantly higher in group 2 compared to group 1. Gender, smoking status, surgery of the musculoskeletal joints, and the grade of degeneration of the cranial and caudal adjacent segments were similar between group 1 and group 2. CONCLUSION: The overall clinical success following ACDF was 85.3%. The rate of repeat procedure for sASD was 10.3% within 26 years. Patients with sASD had a significantly higher rate of MSD and poorer clinical outcome compared to patients without sASD.

The Effect of Cervicodorsal Hemivertebra Resection on Head Tilt and Trunk Shift in Children With Congenital Scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: Congenital scoliosis due to hemivertebra of the cervicodorsal spine is a rare disorder. It might be accompanied by impaired cosmetic appearances such as head tilt and trunk shift. Little is known about the effect of correction of the major curve on head tilt and trunk shift in children. The purpose of this study was to assess radiographic changes of head tilt and trunk shift following posterior hemivertebra resection (PHVR). METHODS: Retrospectively, all children who underwent PHVR at the cervicodorsal spine (C6-Th6) with pedicle screw fixation with a minimum radiographic follow-up of 1 year were identified for further assessment. A total of 5 radiographic parameters were assessed on preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up radiographs. (1) Head tilt was defined as the angle between the horizontal line and the line through both molars of the maxillary, (2) trunk shift as the angle between the line of the center of C7 to the sacrum and the central sacral vertical line, (3) Cobb angle was used to assess the major curve, (4) cranial, and (5) caudal compensatory curvature. RESULTS: Seven boys and 10 girls with a mean age of 9.0 years at surgery were evaluated. The mean radiographic follow-up was 89.5 months (range: 12 to 166 mo). The mean head tilt reoriented from 6.9 to 1.9 degrees (P<0.001); trunk shift improved from 4.3 to 2.5 degrees after surgery (P=0.100). There was a significant correlation between head tilt and trunk shift on preoperative and postoperative radiographs (P=0.030/0.031). The major curve, and compensatory curvatures were all significantly corrected (P<0.001). Head reorientation was significantly influenced by patient age at surgery. Repeated procedures due to decompensation of the compensatory curvature were performed in 2 cases. CONCLUSIONS: PHVR and pedicle screw fixation is an effective treatment for patients with congenital scoliosis. Surgery achieves a significant correction of the major curve and reorientation of the head postoperatively, and till the last follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Olfactory dysfunction in patients undergoing supraorbital keyhole craniotomy for clipping of unruptured aneurysms.

Olfactory performance has rarely been assessed in the perioperative phase of elective aneurysm surgery. Here, we assessed the risk for olfactory deterioration following surgical treatment of unruptured cerebral aneurysm via the supraorbital keyhole craniotomy. A retrospective review of patients with electively treated cerebral aneurysms who underwent perioperative assessment of olfactory function using a sniffin' sticks odor identification test between January 2015 and January 2016 was performed. A subgroup of patients without history of subarachnoid hemorrhage, without prior aneurysm treatment, and confirmed olfactory function underwent supraorbital keyhole craniotomy for aneurysm clipping. Microscopic and endoscopic videos were reviewed for this subgroup. Sixty-four patients who underwent elective aneurysm treatment either via surgical clipping or endovascular aneurysm obliteration were identified. Prior to treatment, 4/64 (6.3%) demonstrated bilateral anosmia. Collectively, 14 patients (21.9%) met subgroup criteria of supraorbital keyhole craniotomy for aneurysm clipping. Here, olfactory performance significantly decreased postoperatively on the side of craniotomy (ipsilateral, P = 0.007), whereas contralateral and bilateral olfactory function remained unaltered (P = 0.301 and P = 0.582, respectively). Consequently, 4/14 patients (28.6%) demonstrated ipsilateral anosmia 3 months after surgery. One patient (1/14, 7.1%) also experienced contralateral anosmia resulting in bilateral anosmia. Intraoperative visualization of the olfactory tract and surgical maneuvers do not facilitate prediction of olfactory outcome. The supraorbital keyhole craniotomy harbors a specific risk for unilateral olfactory deterioration. Lack of perioperative olfactory assessment likely results in underestimation of the risk for olfactory decline. Despite uneventful surgery, prediction of postoperative olfactory function and dysfunction remain challenging. Clin. Anat. 33:316-323, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Microsurgical Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Report of 158 Patients With a Mean Follow-up of More Than 32 Years.

STUDY DESIGN: Level 3, cohort study. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess long-term clinical outcome, and rate of reoperation following microsurgical subtotal discectomy (MSD). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a common cause of discomfort. Studies with >25 years of follow-up are rare and the reported rate of clinical success and reoperation are not well understood. METHODS: Retrospectively, files with complete documentation of preoperative and postoperative neurological status, process during hospitalization, detailed report of MSD, outpatient visit notes, and full contact information of patients who underwent MSD for the treatment of LDH with a minimum follow-up of 25 years were reviewed. Patients were contacted for personal follow-up assessment which included Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), EQ-5D, and MacNab criteria, usage of pain medication for leg and back pain, limitations in daily life, and repeated procedures at the lumbar spine. RESULTS: A total of 355 patients were randomly selected and contacted for final follow-up and 158 patients with a mean follow-up 32 years participated in the study. Clinical success rate was 86.0%, mean ODI was 9% (0-58%), 69.6% of the patients were pain free, 13.9% of patients reported the daily intake of pain medication for back and leg pain. Reoperations were performed in 47 of the patients (29.7%), whereas the rate for recurrent disc herniation at the same level was 8.2%. Reoperation within the first 2 years after initial MSD had negative influence on clinical success. The preoperative physical working status and sex and working status had no influence on the clinical success. CONCLUSION: The MSD is an effective technique to achieve a high rate of patient satisfaction, and high rate of functional recovery. The overall reoperation rate is 30% within 30 years but only 8.2% of the patients underwent reoperation because of recurrent disc herniation at the same level. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Comparison of radiographic parameters after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with semiconstrained translational versus rotational plate systems.

OBJECTIVE: A plate is commonly applied after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF); particularly in cases of multilevel fusion. Recent comparative studies have focused on constrained versus semiconstrained plates, however little data is available to assess differences between semiconstrained plates. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of 60 consecutive adult patients undergoing a 1, 2 or 3 level ACDF with a lordotic allograft for treatment of symptomatic cervical spondylosis was conducted at a single center. The cohort was separated into two groups depending on the cervical plating system used. Patients in the first group had a semiconstrained translational plate and those in the second group had a semiconstrained rotational plate. Plain neutral radiographs were assessed preoperatively, immediately after surgery and at most recent follow-up. The measured radiographic parameters focused on sagittal alignment, adjacent segment pathology, fusion rate and implant failure. RESULTS: There were 30 patients in each group. There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics or distribution of levels fused between groups. All patients had at least 6 months of follow-up and mean follow-up was 14.8 ±â€¯6.2 months in the translational plate group and 13.1 ±â€¯4.8 months in the rotational plate group (p = 0.227). Significant improvement in sagittal segmental alignment was noted in both groups following surgery. The translational plate group improved from 1.0 ±â€¯7.5 degrees to 4.8 ±â€¯7.6 degrees (p = 0.03) and the rotational group improved from 2.7 ±â€¯9.1 degrees to 8.4 ±â€¯7.8 degrees (p = 0.001). This significant sagittal correction was maintained through follow-up for those in the rotational plate group; 5.5 ±â€¯9.1 degrees (p = 0.002). However, a partial loss of segmental lordosis was observed in the translational plate group leading to a failure to maintain significance of the lordotic correction; 1.7 ±â€¯8.3 degrees (p = 0.280) over the follow-up period. Segmental fusion rates were not significantly different between groups. However, there was a higher rate of screw breakage within the rotational plate group (4 instances versus 0 instances in the translational plate group). CONCLUSION: This comparative cohort series suggests that performing an ACDF with a lordotic allograft using either semiconstrained translational or rotational plate system allows for correction and maintenance of cervical alignment, however the rotational plate appears more effective at maintaining segmental lordotic correction. Further prospective controlled study will be needed to determine if this may come at the expense of greater rates of instrumentation failure in the rotational plate group.

Endoscopic Translaminar Approach for Resection of Migrated Lumbar Disc Herniation.

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a common degenerative disease, and up to 10% of LDH migrates into the so-called "hidden zone." The traditional interlaminar approach carries the risk of subsequent instability due to osseous destruction by reaching the hidden zone and exposing the nerve root. In the 1990s, the first reports were published on the open microsurgical "translaminar approach" (TLA) for the resection of migrated LDH with the intention to minimize osseous destruction. However, the open technique still had the disadvantage of soft-tissue and muscle dissection. Endoscopic tubular procedures were developed to reduce approach-related muscle trauma. Endoscopic tubular surgery combines the bimanual microsurgical technique with continuous endoscopic visualization of the surgical field. The high-definition endoscopic visualization allows for excellent illumination and identification of tissue and anatomical structures. The rate of clinical success for the treatment of migrated LDH via endoscopic TLA has been reported to be up to 95%. However, endoscopic TLA has not been analyzed extensively, and reports with a detailed description are rare. The purpose of the present video is to demonstrate endoscopic tubular TLA and resection of a migrated LDH. This is the case of a 62-year-old man with right-sided leg pain and quadriceps paresis due to LDH that migrated behind the L3 vertebral body. Special focus is given to the planning of the skin incision and the trajectory toward the disc herniation. Furthermore, the dissection and extraction of large disc herniation are explained in detail.

Endoscopic spinal surgery using a new tubular retractor with 15 mm outer diameter.

Purpose: To assess whether the instrument handling and image quality of endoscopic spinal decompression procedures is adequate and effects the treatment of degenerative spinal disorders. Material and Methods: Forty-six patients underwent endoscopic procedures for radicular pain or sensorimotor deficit due to a degenerative disorder using a 15mm tubular retractor. Endoscopic video recordings were reviewed with focus on instrument handling and intraoperative complication. At final follow-up the clinical outcome was assessed via a standardized questionnaire including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) Neck Disability Index (NDI), Odoms criteria and a personal examination focusing on pain, and sensorimotor deficits. Results: Forty out of 46 patients attended a final follow-up (86.9%). The mean follow-up time was 51.8 month (range 15-84 month). At final follow-up, of patients who were operate at the lumbar spine 93.9% and at the cervical spine 85.7% were free of radicular pain, no weakness was documented in 84.9% of cases after lumbar and 85.7% after cervical spine procedure, and according to Odoms criteria clinical success was noted in 84.5% and 100%, respectively. The mean ODI was 9.0% and mean NDI was 11.7%. The dural tear rate was 4.3%, all dural tear were closed endoscopically. The recurrent disc herniation rate was 6.1%. Conclusions: Endoscopic decompression using a 15m tubular retractor offers a good view onto the surgical field and a high clinical success rate. The decompression of degenerative pathologies in bimanual technique is not limited by a 15mm tubular retractor.

Anterior cervical spine surgery for the treatment of subaxial cervical spondylodiscitis: a report of 30 consecutive patients.

OBJECTIVEInfection of the cervical spine is a rare disease but is associated with significant risk of neurological deterioration, morbidity, and a poor response to nonsurgical management. The ideal treatment for cervical spondylodiscitis (CSD) remains unclear.METHODSHospital records of patients who underwent acute surgical management for CSD were reviewed. Information about preoperative neurological status, surgical treatment, peri- and postoperative processes, antibiotic treatment, repeated procedure, and neurological status at follow-up examination were analyzed.RESULTSA total of 30 consecutive patients (17 male and 13 female) were included in this retrospective study. The mean age at procedures was 68.1 years (range 50-82 years), with mean of 6 coexisting comorbidities. Preoperatively neck pain was noted in 21 patients (70.0%), arm pain in 12 (40.0%), a paresis in 12 (40.0%), sensory deficit in 8 (26.7%), tetraparesis in 6 (20%), a septicemia in 4 (13.3%). Preoperative MRI scan revealed a CSD in one-level fusion in 21 patients (70.0%), in two-level fusions in 7 patients (23.3%), and in three-level fusions in 2 patients (6.7%). In 16 patients an antibiotic treatment was initiated prior to surgical treatment. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with cervical plating (ACDF+CP) was performed in 17 patients and anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) in 12 patients. Additional posterior decompression was performed in one case of ACDF+CP and additional posterior fixation in ten cases of ACCF procedures. Three patients died due to multiple organ failure (10%). Revision surgery was performed in 6 patients (20.7%) within the first 2 weeks postoperatively. All patients received antibiotic treatment for 6 weeks. At the first follow-up (mean 3 month) no recurrent infection was detected on blood workup and MRI scans. At final follow-up (mean 18 month), all patients reported improvement of neck pain, all but one patients were free of radicular pain and had no sensory deficits, and all patients showed improvement of motor strength. One patient with preoperative tetraparesis was able to ambulate.CONCLUSIONSCSD is a disease that is associated with severe neurological deterioration. Anterior cervical surgery with radical debridement and appropriate antibiotic treatment achieves complete healing. Anterior cervical plating with the use of polyetheretherketone cages has no negative effect of the healing process. Posterior fixation is recommended following ACCF procedures.

The Learning Process of Endoscopic Spinal Surgery for Degenerative Cervical and Lumbar Disorders Using the EasyGO! System.

BACKGROUND: Among spinal surgeons, the safety of endoscopic spinal techniques has been criticized as the result of a prolonged learning curve and divergent surgical technique from traditional microsurgery. In this manuscript, the authors assessed the learning curve of 4 experienced microsurgical neurosurgeons in endoscopic spinal surgery. METHODS: Retrospectively, the surgical reports, the endoscopic video recording, and the files of all patients who underwent an endoscopic procedure for the treatment of cervical and lumbar disc herniation from January 2011 to December 2017 were reviewed. The learning process was assessed via several parameters: surgical time, intraoperative complications, dural tear, nerve root injury, conversion to microsurgery, new postoperative neurologic deficits, repeated procedure, and early recurrent disc herniation. RESULTS: The learning process of for 4 surgeons was assessed on the basis of 308 procedures. The mean surgical time for the initial procedure ranges from 58 to 97 minutes and improved to 51-85 minutes for the last procedures. A shorter surgical time had no influence on the rate of intraoperative complication and repeated procedure. Increased working space had a significant influence on the surgical time. The number of procedure to reach the asymptote varied from 10 to 20 depending on the endoscopic system and the surgeon. CONCLUSIONS: The learning process in endoscopic tubular-assisted spinal surgery is variable, and the asymptote might be reached after 10-20 procedures. The amount of working space and instrument angulation affects the surgical time. The decrease of surgical time had no significant influence on the rate of intraoperative complication and repeated procedures.

Management of Dural Tears in Endoscopic Lumbar Spinal Surgery: A Review of the Literature.

OBJECTIVE: The incidental dural tear is a common complication in lumbar spine surgery. It has been reported that the incidence of dural tears is much greater in endoscopic procedures. Primary closure via suturing remains challenging in endoscopic procedures. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on the surgical technique for dural closure and repair in endoscopic spine surgery. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed using the database PubMed. In total, 12 studies reported specifically about the surgical treatment for dural tear in percutaneous and tubular assisted endoscopic technique. The dural tear rate, the technique of dural closure, postoperative time of bed rest, postoperative symptoms related to cerebrospinal fluid fistula, and revision surgery were assessed. RESULTS: The overall rate of dural tears in endoscopic spinal surgery was 2.7%, with a range from 0% to 8.6%. The incidence of a dural tear was much greater in cases with lumbar stenosis (3.7%) than in lumbar disc herniation (2.1%). The greatest rate was accompanied by resecting synovial cysts. In addition, the risk of dural tear is greater in bilateral decompression procedures via a unilateral approach. There is no consensus about the ideal technique for dural closure in endoscopic procedures. Furthermore, there is a debate whether dural tear requires surgical treatment or not. CONCLUSIONS: An autologous muscle or fat graft in combination with fibrin glue or a fibrin-sealed collagen sponge seems to be a good and safe method for the management of dural tear in lumbar endoscopic spine surgery.

Clinical outcome following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with and without anterior cervical plating for the treatment of cervical disc herniation-a 25-year follow-up study.

Extreme long-term clinical outcome studies following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with an autologous iliac crest with and without Caspar plating (ACDF + CP) for the treatment of radiculopathy caused by cervical disc herniation (CDH) are extremely rare. Hospital records of patients who underwent ACDF or ACDF + CP for the treatment of CDH at least 17 years ago were reviewed. Information about diagnosis, surgery, pre- and postoperative clinical process, and repeated procedure was analyzed. At final follow-up, patients were reviewed with a standardized questionnaire including the current neurological status, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Odom's criteria, a modified EQ-5D, and limitations in quality of life. One hundred twenty-two patients with a mean follow-up of 25 years were evaluated. ACDF was performed in 80 and ACDF + CP in 42 patients, respectively. At final follow-up, 81.1% of patients were free of radicular pain and had no repeated procedure. According to Odom's criteria, 86.1% of good to excellent functional recovery was noted. The mean NDI and EQ-5D was 14% and 5 points, respectively. There was no significant difference in the assessed clinical outcome parameters between patients treated with ACDF and ACDF + CP. The rate for repeated procedure due to degenerative cervical disorders was 10.7 and 7.4% due to symptomatic adjacent segment disease with 25 years. ACDF and ACDF + CP achieved a high rate radicular pain relief (89.3%) and clinical success (86.1%) for the treatment of CDH within a 25 years follow-up. No statistical difference concerning clinical outcome and rate of repeated procedure was detected.