Lateral lumbar interbody fusion at L4-L5 has a low rate of complications in appropriately selected patients when using a standardized surgical technique.

Aims: The aim of this study was to reassess the rate of neurological, psoas-related, and abdominal complications associated with L4-L5 lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) undertaken using a standardized preoperative assessment and surgical technique. Methods: This was a multicentre retrospective study involving consecutively enrolled patients who underwent L4-L5 LLIF by seven surgeons at seven institutions in three countries over a five-year period. The demographic details of the patients and the details of the surgery, reoperations and complications, including femoral and non-femoral neuropraxia, thigh pain, weakness of hip flexion, and abdominal complications, were analyzed. Neurological and psoas-related complications attributed to LLIF or posterior instrumentation and persistent symptoms were recorded at one year postoperatively. Results: A total of 517 patients were included in the study. Their mean age was 65.0 years (SD 10.3) and their mean BMI was 29.2 kg/m2 (SD 5.5). A mean of 1.2 levels (SD 0.6) were fused with LLIF, and a mean of 1.6 (SD 0.9) posterior levels were fused. Femoral neuropraxia occurred in six patients (1.2%), of which four (0.8%) were LLIF-related and two (0.4%) had persistent symptoms one year postoperatively. Non-femoral neuropraxia occurred in nine patients (1.8%), one (0.2%) was LLIF-related and five (1.0%) were persistent at one year. All LLIF-related neuropraxias resolved by one year. A total of 32 patients (6.2%) had thigh pain, 31 (6.0%) were LLIF-related and three (0.6%) were persistent at one year. Weakness of hip flexion occurred in 14 patients (2.7%), of which eight (1.6%) were LLIF-related and three (0.6%) were persistent at one year. No patients had bowel injury, three (0.6%) had an intraoperative vascular injury (not LLIF-related), and five (1.0%) had ileus. Reoperations occurred in five patients (1.0%) within 30 days, 37 (7.2%) within 90 days, and 41 (7.9%) within one year postoperatively. Conclusion: LLIF involving the L4-L5 disc level has a low rate of persistent neurological, psoas-related, and abdominal complications in patients with the appropriate indications and using a standardized surgical technique.

SPINE20 recommendations 2023: One Earth, one family, one future WITHOUT spine DISABILITY.

Introduction: The purpose is to report on the fourth set of recommendations developed by SPINE20 to advocate for evidence-based spine care globally under the theme of "One Earth, One Family, One Future WITHOUT Spine DISABILITY". Research question: Not applicable. Material and methods: Recommendations were developed and refined through two modified Delphi processes with international, multi-professional panels. Results: Seven recommendations were delivered to the G20 countries calling them to:-establish, prioritize and implement accessible National Spine Care Programs to improve spine care and health outcomes.-eliminate structural barriers to accessing timely rehabilitation for spinal disorders to reduce poverty.-implement cost-effective, evidence-based practice for digital transformation in spine care, to deliver self-management and prevention, evaluate practice and measure outcomes.-monitor and reduce safety lapses in primary care including missed diagnoses of serious spine pathologies and risk factors for spinal disability and chronicity.-develop, implement and evaluate standardization processes for spine care delivery systems tailored to individual and population health needs.-ensure accessible and affordable quality care to persons with spine disorders, injuries and related disabilities throughout the lifespan.-promote and facilitate healthy lifestyle choices (including physical activity, nutrition, smoking cessation) to improve spine wellness and health. Discussion and conclusion: SPINE20 proposes that focusing on the recommendations would facilitate equitable access to health systems, affordable spine care delivered by a competent healthcare workforce, and education of persons with spine disorders, which will contribute to reducing spine disability, associated poverty, and increase productivity of the G20 nations.

Personalized Interventional Surgery of the Lumbar Spine: A Perspective on Minimally Invasive and Neuroendoscopic Decompression for Spinal Stenosis.

Pain generator-based lumbar spinal decompression surgery is the backbone of modern spine care. In contrast to traditional image-based medical necessity criteria for spinal surgery, assessing the severity of neural element encroachment, instability, and deformity, staged management of common painful degenerative lumbar spine conditions is likely to be more durable and cost-effective. Targeting validated pain generators can be accomplished with simplified decompression procedures associated with lower perioperative complications and long-term revision rates. In this perspective article, the authors summarize the current concepts of successful management of spinal stenosis patients with modern transforaminal endoscopic and translaminar minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques. They represent the consensus statements of 14 international surgeon societies, who have worked in collaborative teams in an open peer-review model based on a systematic review of the existing literature and grading the strength of its clinical evidence. The authors found that personalized clinical care protocols for lumbar spinal stenosis rooted in validated pain generators can successfully treat most patients with sciatica-type back and leg pain including those who fail to meet traditional image-based medical necessity criteria for surgery since nearly half of the surgically treated pain generators are not shown on the preoperative MRI scan. Common pain generators in the lumbar spine include (a) an inflamed disc, (b) an inflamed nerve, (c) a hypervascular scar, (d) a hypertrophied superior articular process (SAP) and ligamentum flavum, (e) a tender capsule, (f) an impacting facet margin, (g) a superior foraminal facet osteophyte and cyst, (h) a superior foraminal ligament impingement, (i) a hidden shoulder osteophyte. The position of the key opinion authors of the perspective article is that further clinical research will continue to validate pain generator-based treatment protocols for lumbar spinal stenosis. The endoscopic technology platform enables spine surgeons to directly visualize pain generators, forming the basis for more simplified targeted surgical pain management therapies. Limitations of this care model are dictated by appropriate patient selection and mastering the learning curve of modern MIS procedures. Decompensated deformity and instability will likely continue to be treated with open corrective surgery. Vertically integrated outpatient spine care programs are the most suitable setting for executing such pain generator-focused programs.

Sagittal Alignment Concepts and Spinopelvic Parameters.

Spinal surgery continues to expand its horizons to care for disabled patients presenting pain and deformities. Over the past decade, our knowledge of spinal alignment, from the skull to the pelvis, has increased considerably. Such knowledge must expand to reach general orthopedists and improve the care required for so many people. Global spinal alignment is a critical concept in understanding the impact of pathological conditions (degenerative diseases, traumas, deformities) and their treatment, including spinal instrumentation and arthrodesis. Therefore, the treatment of any spinal disease must include the knowledge of the complexity of the spinopelvic alignment. At first, all parameters seem like pure mathematics, hardly applicable to the everyday life of the inattentive reader. However, it gradually becomes clear that, like everything else in orthopedics, biomechanics is an essential part of the knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, revealing the logic behind the physiology of movements. The knowledge of the sagittal alignment concepts and spinopelvic parameteres provide a better comprehension of the axial and appendicular skeletons, increasing the understanding of the physiological and adaptive spinal processes in the face of the degenerative process that increases throughout life.

Sagittal Alignment Concepts and Spinopelvic Parameters / Conceitos de alinhamento sagital e parâmetros espinopélvicos

Abstract Spinal surgery continues to expand its horizons to care for disabled patients presenting pain and deformities. Over the past decade, our knowledge of spinal alignment, from the skull to the pelvis, has increased considerably. Such knowledge must expand to reach general orthopedists and improve the care required for so many people. Global spinal alignment is a critical concept in understanding the impact of pathological conditions (degenerative diseases, traumas, deformities) and their treatment, including spinal instrumentation and arthrodesis. Therefore, the treatment of any spinal disease must include the knowledge of the complexity of the spinopelvic alignment. At first, all parameters seem like pure mathematics, hardly applicable to the everyday life of the inattentive reader. However, it gradually becomes clear that, like everything else in orthopedics, biomechanics is an essential part of the knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, revealing the logic behind the physiology of movements. The knowledge of the sagittal alignment concepts and spinopelvic parameteres provide a better comprehension of the axial and appendicular skeletons, increasing the understanding of the physiological and adaptive spinal processes in the face of the degenerative process that increases throughout life.

Resumo A cirurgia da coluna continua a expandir seus horizontes para cuidar dos pacientes incapacitados com dor e deformidades. Desde a última década, nosso conhecimento sobre o alinhamento espinal, do crânio à pelve, aumentou consideravelmente. Portanto, faz-se necessária a expansão de tal conhecimento para o ortopedista geral, para que possamos proporcionar melhores cuidados para essa população. O alinhamento espinal global é um conceito crítico no entendimento do impacto ocasionado pela condição patológica (doença degenerativa, trauma, deformidade) e mesmo do seu tratamento, como na instrumentação e artrodese da coluna. O tratamento de qualquer doença na coluna deve incluir o entendimento da complexidade do alinhamento espinopélvico. A princípio, todos os parâmetros parecem puramente matemáticos e pouco aplicáveis à realidade do leitor mais desatento. Mas, aos poucos, fica claro que, como tudo em ortopedia, a biomecânica faz parte essencial do conhecimento do sistema musculoesquelético, tornando mais claras as lógicas da fisiologia do movimento. O conhecimento dos conceitos de alinhamento sagital e dos parâmetros espinopélvicos proporcionam uma melhor compreensão dos esqueletos axial e apendicular, além de um melhor entendimento dos processos fisiológicos e adaptativos da coluna frente ao processo degenerativo crescente que ocorre ao longo da vida.

Single-Position Transpsoas Corpectomy and Posterior Instrumentation in the Thoracolumbar Spine for Different Clinical Scenarios.

BACKGROUND: The concept of single-position spine surgery has been gaining momentum because it has proven to reduce operative time, blood loss, and hospital length of stay with similar or better outcomes than traditional dual-position surgery. The latest development in single-position spine surgery techniques combines either open or posterior pedicle screw fixation with transpsoas corpectomy while in the lateral or prone positioning. OBJECTIVE: To provide, through a multicenter study, the results of our first patients treated by single-position corpectomy. METHODS: This is a multicenter retrospective study of patients who underwent corpectomy and instrumentation in the lateral or prone position without repositioning between the anterior and posterior techniques. Data regarding demographics, diagnosis, neurological status, surgical details, complications, and radiographic parameters were collected. The minimum follow-up for inclusion was 6 months. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients were finally included in our study (24 male patients and 10 female patients), with a mean age of 51.2 (SD ± 17.5) years. Three-quarter of cases (n = 27) presented with thoracolumbar fracture as main diagnosis, followed by spinal metastases and primary spinal infection. Lateral positioning was used in 27 cases, and prone positioning was used in 7 cases. The overall rate of complications was 14.7%. CONCLUSION: This is the first multicenter series of patients who underwent single-position corpectomy and fusion. This technique has shown to be safe and effective to treat a variety of spinal conditions with a relatively low rate of complications. More series are required to validate this technique as a possible standard approach when thoracolumbar corpectomies are indicated.

Lumbar arthrodesis in lateral single position: concepts, rational and clinical-functional results of 100 consecutive cases / Artrodese lombar em decúbito lateral único: conceitos, justificativas e resultados clínico-funcionais de 100 casos consecutivos / Artrodesis lumbar en posición lateral única: conceptos, justificaciones y resultados clínico-funcionales de 100 casos consecutivos

ABSTRACT Objective: Arthrodesis techniques such as anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) aim to reestablish physiological lordosis and minimize tissue damage to the paravertebral musculature. Supplementation with percutaneous pedicle screws is indicated in most cases, therefore, intraoperative changes in decubitus are necessary, generating costs and risks for the patient. This study aims to present concepts and results of a series of 100 cases of patients undergoing 360° fusion in lateral single position surgery (LSPS). Methods: retrospective analysis of databases collected between 2016 and 2021. Patients who underwent 360° fusion of the lumbar spine in single lateral decubitus to treat degenerative and infectious diseases were included. Cases with arthrodesis greater than 3 levels were excluded. Data collected include demographics, body mass index (BMI) and scores such as visual analog scale (VAS), EuroQOL 5D (EQ5D) and Oswestry disability index (ODI). Results: 100 patients were included in the study, submitted to LLIF and/or ALIF associated with percutaneous pedicle fixation. The lumbar VAS improved from 6.75 to 2.1 after 12 months, while the sciatica VAS started from 4.55 and reached 0.81 after one year. The EQ5D improved from 66.1 to 81.6 after the first year, while the ODI ranged from 28.54 to 14.18 in the same period. Conclusions: the clinical-functional results of the LSPS procedures are favorable and place the LSPS as an option to be studied, developed and practiced by spine surgery teams. Level of evidence: IV. Case series.

Resumo: Objetivo: Técnicas de artrodese como anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) e lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) tem como objetivos o reestabelecimento da lordose fisiológica e a mínima lesão tecidual da musculatura paravertebral. A suplementação com parafusos pediculares por via percutânea é indicada na maioria dos casos, sendo, portanto, necessárias mudanças de decúbito intraoperatórias, gerando custos e riscos para o paciente. Este estudo tem como objetivo apresentar conceitos e resultados de uma série de 100 casos de pacientes submetidos a fusão 360° em lateral single position surgery (LSPS). Métodos: análise retrospectiva de banco de dados coletados entre 2016 e 2021. Foram incluídos pacientes submetidos a fusão 360° da coluna lombar em decúbito lateral único para tratamento doenças degenerativas e infecciosas. Foram excluídos casos com artrodeses maiores que 3 níveis. Os dados coletados incluem demografia, índice de massa corpórea (IMC) e scores como visual analog scale (VAS), EuroQOL 5D (EQ5D) e Oswestry disability index (ODI). Resultados: 100 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo, submetidos a LLIF e/ ou ALIF associados a fixação pedicular percutânea. O VAS lombar apresentou melhora de 6,75 para 2,1 após 12 meses, já o VAS ciatalgia partiu de 4,55 e atingiu 0,81 após um ano. O EQ5D apresentou melhora de 66,1 para 81,6 após o primeiro ano, enquanto o ODI variou de 28,54 para 14,18 no mesmo período. Conclusões: os resultados clínico-funcionais dos procedimentos em LSPS se mostram favoráveis e a colocam o LSPS como uma opção a ser estudada, desenvolvida e praticada pelas equipes de cirurgia de coluna. Nível de evidência: IV. Série de casos.

Resumen: Objetivo: Las técnicas de artrodesis como la fusión intersomática lumbar anterior (ALIF) y la fusión intersomática lumbar lateral (LLIF) tienen como objetivo restablecer la lordosis fisiológica. La suplementación con tornillos pediculares percutáneos está indicada en la mayoría de los casos, por lo que son necesarios cambios en decúbito intraoperatorios, generando costos y riesgos para el paciente. Este estudio tiene como objetivo presentar conceptos y resultados de una serie de 100 casos de pacientes sometidos a fusión de 360° en cirugía de posición única lateral (LSPS). Métodos: análisis retrospectivo de bases de datos recolectadas entre 2016 y 2021. Se incluyeron pacientes que se sometieron a fusión de columna lumbar 360° en decúbito lateral y se excluyeron los casos con artrodesis mayores de 3 niveles. Los datos recopilados incluyen datos demográficos, índice de masa corporal (IMC) y puntajes como la escala analógica visual (VAS), EuroQOL 5D (EQ5D) y el índice de discapacidad de Oswestry (ODI). Resultados: 100 pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio, sometidos a LLIF y/o ALIF asociados a fijación pedicular percutánea. La EVA lumbar mejoró de 6,75 a 2,1 a los 12 meses, mientras que la EVA de ciática partió de 4,55 y llegó a 0,81 al año. El EQ5D mejoró 66,1 a 81,6 después del primer año, mientras que el ODI varió 28,54 a 14,18 en el mismo período. Conclusiones: los resultados clínico-funcionales de los procedimientos de LSPS son favorables y a sitúan como una opción a ser estudiada, desarrollada y practicada por los equipos de cirugía de columna. Nivel de evidencia: IV. Series de casos.

Morphometric analysis of the surgical corridor in the pre-psoas approach: an mri study in the brazilian population / Análise morfométrica do corredor cirúrgico no acesso pré-psoas: um estudo por ressonância magnética da coluna lombar na população brasileira / Análisis morfométrica del corredor quirúrgico en el acceso prepsoas: un estudio de resonancia magnética de la columna lumbar en la población brasileña

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aims to perform a morphometric analysis and explore the characteristics of the surgical corridor of the anterior to psoas approach in the Brazilian population through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: Two hundred spinal MRI scans of patients aged between 18 and 80 years were evaluated using axial cuts at L2-L5 levels and a sagittal cut, T2 weighted. The relationship between the left psoas muscle and the abdominal aorta or the left common iliac artery was analyzed. The anterior to psoas corridor was defined as the shortest distance between the posterolateral aspect of the aorta or inferior vena cava or the nearest iliac vessel and the anteromedial aspect of the ipsilateral psoas muscle. Results: 104 females and 96 males with a mean age of 49,68±2.04 (range 18-80) years. The mean anterior to psoas distance at the L2-L3 level was 14,17±0.75mm; at the L3-L4 level was 12,08±0.77m,m and at the L4-L5 level was 9,12±0.77mm. The surgical corridors at all levels were larger in the older population. Conclusion: In most Brazilian patients, the anterior to psoas approach can be a good alternative for lumbar intervertebral fusions. As a routine in preoperative examination and surgical planning, lumbar MRI is fundamental in preoperative evaluation for anterior to psoas approach surgery. Level of Evidence IV; Descriptive study.

Resumo: Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é realizar uma análise morfométrica e explorar as características do corredor cirúrgico da via anterior ao psoas na população brasileira, através de exames de ressonância magnética. Métodos: Duzentos exames de ressonância magnética da coluna lombar de pacientes entre 18 e 80 anos foram avaliados, utilizando cortes axiais nos níveis L2-L5 e um corte sagital na ponderação T2. A relação entre o músculo psoas esquerdo e a aorta abdominal ou a artéria ilíaca comum esquerda foi analisada. O corredor anterior ao psoas foi definido como a menor distância entre a face posterolateral da aorta ou veia cava inferior ou o vaso ilíaco mais próximo e a face anteromedial do músculo psoas ipsilateral. Resultados: A população estudada foi de 104 mulheres e 96 homens com idade média de 49,68±2,04 (18-80) anos. A média da distância anterior ao psoas no nível L2-L3 foi de 14,17 ± 0,75mm; no nível L3-L4 foi de 12,08 ± 0,77mm e no nível L4-L5 foi de 9,12 ± 0,77mm. Os corredores cirúrgicos em todos os níveis foram considerados maiores na população idosa. Conclusão: A abordagem anterior ao psoas pode ser uma boa alternativa para a fusão intervertebral lombar na maioria dos pacientes brasileiros. Como rotina no exame pré-operatório e no planejamento cirúrgico, a ressonância magnética lombar tem fundamental importância na avaliação pré-operatória de cirurgias de abordagem anterior ao psoas. Nível de Evidencia IV; Estudo descritivo.

Resumen: Objetivo: El objetivo de estudio es realizar un análisis morfométrico y explorar las características del corredor quirúrgico de la vía anterior al psoas en la población brasileña, a través de resonancias magnéticas (RM). Métodos: Se evaluaron 200 RM de la columna lumbar de pacientes entre 18 y 80 años, utilizando cortes axiales a niveles L2-L5 y un corte sagital, con ponderación T2. Se analizó la relación entre el músculo psoas izquierdo y la aorta abdominal o la arteria ilíaca común izquierda. El corredor anterior al psoas se definió como la distancia más corta entre la cara posterolateral de la aorta o la vena cava inferior o el vaso ilíaco más cercano y la cara anteromedial del músculo psoas ipsilateral. Resultados: La población estudiada estuvo constituida por 104 mujeres y 96 hombres con una edad media de 49,68±2,04 (18-80) años. La distancia media anterior al psoas en nivel L2-L3 fue de 14,17 ± 0,75 mm; en el nivel L3-L4 fue de 12,08 ± 0,77 mm y en el nivel L4-L5 fue de 9,12 ± 0,77 mm. Los corredores quirúrgicos en todos niveles se consideraron más grandes en la población anciana. Conclusión: El abordaje del psoas anterior puede ser una alternativa para la fusión intervertebral lumbar en la mayoría de los pacientes brasileños. Como rutina en examen preoperatorio, la resonancia magnética lumbar es importante en la evaluación preoperatoria de cirugías con abordaje anterior del psoas. Nivel de Evidencia IV; Estudio descriptivo.

Anatomy of the great vessels by magnetic resonance in anterior lumbar interbody fusion / Anatomia dos grandes vasos por ressonância magnética na fusão intersomática lombar anterior / Anatomía de los grandes vasos por resonancia magnética en fusión intersomática lumbar anterior

ABSTRACT: Objective: To perform an analysis of the anatomy of the great vessels relevant to the access for anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), determining the level of their bifurcation, the distance between the iliac vessels at L5-S1, the morphological configuration of the left iliac vein and the presence of fatty tissue between the vessel and the disc. Methods: Two hundred magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the lumbar spine of patients (18-80 years old) were evaluated using axial, coronal, and sagittal cuts at levels L1-S1 in T2 weighting. The interiliac distance was defined as the measurement between the left iliac vein and the right iliac artery. The presence of fatty tissue was defined as the identification of space between the vessel and the disc. Vessel morphology was divided into oval and flat. Results: The population's average age was 49.6 years, with 52% being female. The average interiliac distance at L5-S1 was 27.48mm. The bifurcation of the aorta artery was identified at the level of L4 in 56.3%, as well as the confluence of the iliac veins (37.2%). The left iliac vein was identified as oval in 69% of patients and flat in 31% of patients. Fat tissue was evidenced in 60.5% of the exams. Conclusion: As a routine preoperative examination and surgical planning, lumbar MRI is fundamental in investigating the anatomy regarding anterior approach surgeries, allowing an effective assessment of the relationships between the great vessels and the lumbar spine. Level of Evidence IV; Retrospective Investigation.

RESUMO: Objetivo: Realizar uma análise da anatomia dos grandes vasos relevantes ao acesso para fusão intersomática lombar anterior (ALIF), determinando o nível de sua bifurcação, a distância entre os vasos ilíacos em L5-S1, a configuração morfológica da veia ilíaca esquerda e a presença de tecido gorduroso entre o vaso e o disco. Métodos: duzentos exames de ressonância magnética (RM) da coluna lombar de pacientes (18-80 anos) foram avaliados, utilizando cortes axiais, coronais e sagitais nos níveis L1-S1, na ponderação T2. A distância interilíaca foi definida como a medida entre a veia ilíaca esquerda e artéria ilíaca direita. A presença de tecido gorduroso foi definida como identificação de espaço entre o vaso e o disco. A morfologia do vaso foi dividida em oval e plana. Resultados: A idade média da população foi de 49,6 anos, sendo 52% mulheres. A distância média interilíacas em L5-S1 foi 27,48 mm. A bifurcação da artéria aorta foi identificada ao nível de L4 em 56,3%. A confluência das veias ilíacas também foi mais frequente ao nível de L4, representando 37,2%. A veia ilíaca esquerda foi identificada com o formato oval em 69% e plana em 31% dos pacientes. Tecido gorduroso foi evidenciado em 60,5% dos exames. Conclusão: Como rotina no exame pré-operatório e no planejamento cirúrgico, a RM lombar tem fundamental importância na investigação da anatomia visando cirurgias de abordagem anterior, pois permite uma avaliação eficaz das relações entre os grandes vasos e a coluna lombar. Nível de Evidência IV; Investigação Retrospectiva.

RESUMEN: Objetivo: Realizar un análisis de la anatomía de los grandes vasos relevantes para el acceso en artrodesis intersomática lumbar anterior (ALIF), determinando el nivel de su bifurcación, la distancia entre los vasos ilíacos en L5-S1, la configuración morfológica de la vena ilíaca izquierda y la presencia de tejido graso entre el vaso y el disco. Métodos: Se evaluaron 200 imágenes de resonancia magnética (RM) de la columna lumbar de pacientes (18-80 años) mediante cortes axiales, coronales y sagitales en los niveles L1-S1, en ponderación T2. La distancia interilíaca se definió como la medida entre la vena ilíaca izquierda y la arteria ilíaca derecha. La presencia de tejido graso se definió como la identificación de espacio entre el vaso y el disco. La morfología de los vasos se dividió en ovalados y planos. Resultados: La edad media de la población fue de 49,6 años, de los cuales 52% eran mujeres. La distancia interilíaca media en L5-S1 fue de 27,48 mm. La bifurcación de la arteria aorta se identificó a nivel de L4 en 56,3%, así como la confluencia de las venas ilíacas (37,2%). La vena ilíaca izquierda se identificó como ovalada en 69% y plana en 31%. Se evidenció tejido graso en 60,5% de los exámenes. Conclusión: Como rutina en examen preoperatorio, la RM lumbar es fundamental en la investigación de anatomía de cirugías de abordaje anterior, permitiendo una evaluación eficaz de las relaciones entre los grandes vasos y la columna lumbar. Nivel de Evidencia IV; Investigación Retrospectiva.

SPINE20 recommendations 2022: spine care-working together to recover stronger.

PURPOSE: Globally, spine disorders are the leading cause of disability, affecting more than half a billion individuals. However, less than 50% of G20 countries specifically identify spine health within their public policy priorities. Therefore, it is crucial to raise awareness among policy makers of the disabling effect of spine disorders and their impact on the economic welfare of G20 nations. In 2019, SPINE20 was established as the leading advocacy group to bring global attention to spine disorders. METHODS: Recommendations were developed through two Delphi methods with international and multi-professional panels. RESULTS: In 2022, seven recommendations were delivered to the leaders of G20 countries, urging them to: Develop action plans to provide universal access to evidence-based spine care that incorporates the needs of minorities and vulnerable populations. Invest in the development of sustainable human resource capacity, through multisectoral and inter-professional competency-based education and training to promote evidence-based approaches to spine care, and to build an appropriate healthcare working environment that optimizes the delivery of safe health services. Develop policies using the best available evidence to properly manage spine disorders and to prolong functional healthy life expectancy in the era of an aging population. Create a competent workforce and improve the healthcare infrastructure/facilities including equipment to provide evidence-based inter-professional rehabilitation services to patients with spinal cord injury throughout their continuum of care. Build collaborative and innovative translational research capacity within national, regional, and global healthcare systems for state-of-the-art and cost-effective spine care across the healthcare continuum ensuring equality, diversity, and inclusion of all stakeholders. Develop international consensus statements on patient outcomes and how they can be used to define and develop pathways for value-based care. Recognize that intervening on determinants of health including physical activity, nutrition, physical and psychosocial workplace environment, and smoking-free lifestyle can reduce the burden of spine disabilities and improve the health status and wellness of the population. At the third SPINE20 summit 2022 which took place in Bali, Indonesia, in August 2022, 17 associations endorsed its recommendations. CONCLUSION: SPINE20 advocacy efforts focus on developing public policy recommendations to improve the health, welfare, and wellness of all who suffer from spinal pain and disability. We propose that focusing on facilitating access to systems that prioritize value-based care delivered by a competent healthcare workforce will reduce disability and improve the productivity of the G20 nations.

Single-position circumferential lumbar spinal fusion: an overview of terminology, concepts, rationale and the current evidence base.

PURPOSE: To provide definitions and a conceptual framework for single position surgery (SPS) applied to circumferential fusion of the lumbar spine. METHODS: Narrative literature review and experts' opinion. RESULTS: Two major limitations of lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) have been (a) a perceived need to reposition the patient to the prone position for posterior fixation, and (b) the lack of a robust solution for fusion at the L5/S1 level. Recently, two strategies for performing single-position circumferential lumbar spinal fusion have been described. The combination of anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) in the lateral decubitus position (LALIF), LLIF and percutaneous pedicle screw fixation (pPSF) in the lateral decubitus position is known as lateral single-position surgery (LSPS). Prone LLIF (PLLIF) involves transpsoas LLIF done in the prone position that is more familiar for surgeons to then implant pedicle screw fixation. This can be referred to as prone single-position surgery (PSPS). In this review, we describe the evolution of and rationale for single-position spinal surgery. Pertinent studies validating LSPS and PSPS are reviewed and future questions regarding the future of these techniques are posed. Lastly, we present an algorithm for single-position surgery that describes the utility of LALIF, LLIF and PLLIF in the treatment of patients requiring AP lumbar fusions. CONCLUSIONS: Single position surgery in circumferential fusion of the lumbar spine includes posterior fixation in association with any of the following: lateral position LLIF, prone position LLIF, lateral position ALIF, and their combination (lateral position LLIF+ALIF). Preliminary studies have validated these methods.

Need of vascular surgeon and comparison of value for anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) in lateral decubitus: Delphi consensus.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Anterior lumbar approaches are recommended for clinical conditions that require interbody stability, spinal deformity corrections or a large fusion area. Anterior lumbar interbody fusion in lateral decubitus position (LatALIF) has gained progressive interest in the last years. The study aims to describe the current habit, the perception of safety and the perceptions of need of vascular surgeons according to experienced spine surgeons by comparing LatALIF to the standard L5-S1 supine ALIF (SupALIF). METHODS: A two-round Delphi method study was conducted to assess the consensus, within expert spine surgeons, regarding the perception of safety, the preoperative planning, the complications management and the need for vascular surgeons by performing anterior approaches (SupALIF vs LatALIF). RESULTS: A total of 14 experts voluntary were involved in the survey. From 82 sentences voted in the first round, a consensus was reached for 38 items. This included the feasibility of safe LatALIF without systematic involvement of vascular surgeon for routine cases (while for revision cases the involvement of the vascular surgeon is an appropriate option) and the appropriateness of standard MRI to evaluate the accessibility of the vascular window. Thirteen sentences reached the final consensus in the second round, whereas no consensus was reached for the remaining 20 statements. CONCLUSIONS: The Delphi study collected the consensus on several points, such as the consolidated required experience on anterior approaches, the accurate study of vascular anatomy with MRI, the management of complications and the significant reduction of the surgical times of the LatALIF if compared to SupALIF in combined procedures. Furthermore, the study group agrees that LatALIF can be performed without the need for a vascular surgeon in routine cases.

Ceramic bone graft substitute vs autograft in XLIF: a prospective randomized single-center evaluation of radiographic and clinical outcomes.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The objective of this prospective, parallel, randomized, single-center study is to evaluate the clinical success of a commercial ceramic bone graft substitute (CBGS) for autograft in eXtreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF) procedures. Please confirm if the author names are presented accurately and in the correct sequence (given name, middle name/initial, family name). Author 1 Given name: [Cristiano Magalhães], Last name [Menezes]. Author 2 Given name: [Gabriel Carvalho], Last name [Lacerda]. Author 5 Given name: [Erica Godinho], Last name [Menezes]. Also, kindly confirm the details in the metadata are correct.yes METHODS: Forty-five adult subjects were consecutively enrolled and randomized into a single-level XLIF procedure using either CBGS or iliac crest bone graft autograft (30 and 15 subjects, respectively). The primary outcome was fusion rate at 12, 18, and 24 months. Secondary outcomes were pain and disability measured by HRQOL questionnaires. Kindly check and confirm whether the corresponding author and his corresponding affiliations is correctly identified.yes RESULTS: The fusion rates for both CBGS and autograft groups at the 24-month follow-up were 96.4% and 100%, respectively. For the CBGS group, mean ODI, mean back pain, and mean worst leg pain significantly improved at the 24-month follow-up by 76.7% (39.9-9.3), 77.6% (7.3-1.6), and 81.3% (5.1-1.0), respectively. For the autograft group, mean ODI, mean back pain, and mean worst leg pain significantly improved during the same time period by 77.1% (35.9-8.2), 75.6% (6.1-1.5), and 86.0% (6.6-0.9), respectively (all time points between groups, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of this prospective, randomized study support the use of CBGS as a standalone bone graft substitute for autograft in single-level XLIF surgery. The clinical performance and safety outcomes reported here are consistent with published evidence on CBGS. Improvements in patient-reported back pain, leg pain, and disability outcomes were comparable between the CBGS and autograft groups.

Postoperative spinal alignment comparison of lateral versus supine patient position L5-S1 anterior lumbar interbody fusion.

PURPOSE: Over the past decade, alternative patient positions for the treatment of the anterior lumbar spine have been explored in an effort to maximize the benefits of direct anterior column access while minimizing the inefficiencies of single or multiple intraoperative patient repositionings. The lateral technique allows for access from L1 to L5 through a retroperitoneal, muscle-splitting, transpsoas approach with placement of a large intervertebral spacer than can reliably improve segmental lordosis, though its inability to be used at L5-S1 limits its overall adoption, as L5-S1 is one of the most common levels treated and where high levels of lordosis are optimal. Recent developments in instrumentation and techniques for lateral-position treatment of the L5-S1 level with a modified anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) approach have expanded the lateral position to L5-S1, though the positional effect on L5-S1 lordosis is heretofore unreported. The purpose of this study was to compare local and regional alignment differences between ALIFs performed with the patient in the lateral (L-ALIF) versus supine position (S-ALIF). METHODS: Retrospective, multi-center data and radiographs were collected from 476 consecutive patients who underwent L5-S1 L-ALIF (n = 316) or S-ALIF (n = 160) for degenerative lumbar conditions. Patients treated at L4-5 and above with other single-position interbody fusion and posterior fixation techniques were included in the analysis. Baseline patient characteristics were similar between the groups, though L-ALIF patients were slightly older (58 vs. 54 years), with a greater preoperative mean L5-S1 disk height (7.8 vs. 5.8 mm), and with less preoperative slip (6.6 vs. 8.5 mm), respectively. 262 patients were treated with only L-ALIF or S-ALIF at L5-S1 while the remaining 214 patients were treated with either L-ALIF or S-ALIF at L5-S1 along with fusions at other thoracolumbar levels. Lumbar lordosis (LL), L5-S1 segmental lordosis, L5-S1 disk space height, and slip reduction in L5-S1 spondylolisthesis were measured on preoperative and postoperative lateral X-ray images. LL was only compared between single-level ALIFs, given the variability of other procedures performed at the levels above L5-S1. RESULTS: Mean pre- to postoperative L5-S1 segmental lordosis improved 39% (6.6°) and 31% (4.9°) in the L-ALIF and S-ALIF groups, respectively (p = 0.063). Mean L5-S1 disk height increased by 6.5 mm (89%) in the L-ALIF and 6.4 mm (110%) in the S-ALIF cohorts, (p = 0.650). Spondylolisthesis, in those patients with a preoperative slip, average reduction in the L-ALIF group was 1.5 mm and 2.2 mm in the S-ALIF group (p = 0.175). In patients treated only at L5-S1 with ALIF, mean segmental alignment improved significantly more in the L-ALIF compared to the S-ALIF cohort (7.8 vs. 5.4°, p = 0.035), while lumbar lordosis increased 4.1° and 3.6° in the respective groups (p = 0.648). CONCLUSION: Use of the lateral patient position for L5-S1 ALIF, compared to traditional supine L5-S1 ALIF, resulted in at least equivalent alignment and radiographic outcomes, with significantly greater improvement in segmental lordosis in patients treated only at L5-S1. These data, from the largest lateral ALIF dataset reported to date, suggest that-radiographically-the lateral patient position can be considered as an alternative to traditional ALIF positional techniques.

Setting for single position surgery: survey from expert spinal surgeons.

PURPOSE: To describe a comprehensive setting of the different alternatives for performing a single position fusion surgery based on the opinion of leading surgeons in the field. METHODS: Between April and May of 2021, a specifically designed two round survey was distributed by mail to a group of leaders in the field of Single Position Surgery (SPS). The questionnaire included a variety of domains which were focused on highlighting tips and recommendations regarding improving the efficiency of the performance of SPS. This includes operation room setting, positioning, use of technology, approach, retractors specific details, intraoperative neuromonitoring and tips for inserting percutaneous pedicle screws in the lateral position. It asked questions focused on Lateral Single Position Surgery (LSPS), Lateral ALIF (LA) and Prone Lateral Surgery (PLS). Strong agreement was defined as an agreement of more than 80% of surgeons for each specific question. The number of surgeries performed in SPS by each surgeon was used as an indirect element to aid in exhibiting the expertise of the surgeons being surveyed. RESULTS: Twenty-four surgeons completed both rounds of the questionnaire. Moderate or strong agreement was found for more than 50% of the items. A definition for Single Position Surgery and a step-by-step recommendation workflow was built to create a better understanding of surgeons who are starting the learning curve in this technique. CONCLUSION: A recommendation of the setting for performing single position fusion surgery procedure (LSPS, LA and PLS) was developed based on a survey of leaders in the field.

When to Consider Stand-Alone Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Is There a Role for a Comeback With New Implants?

OBJECTIVE: To perform a comprehensive review of the literature about the role of stand-alone lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). METHODS: A MEDLINE review was conducted including studies about stand-alone LLIF for any condition. The opinions of the authors were also considered. Studies that included biomechanical, cadaveric, or clinical aspects of stand-alone cages were revised to obtain data about the pros, cons, and limitations of the technique. Comparative studies with 360° (lateral + posterior) fusions were also analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 36 studies were identified. After reviewing the abstracts, 18 full articles of interest for the objective of this review were analyzed. Recommendations based on the literature were made. Although most of the recommendations in the literature were about augmentation with pedicle screws, there may be a role for stand-alone LLIF in some particular cases. Specific technical aspects should be considered to reduce the failure rate. CONCLUSION: Although there might be some specific indications for stand-alone LLIF, it should be considered an exception rather than the rule.

Strategy to increase the lipid stability of the microbial oil produced by Umbelopsis isabellina for food purposes: Use of microencapsulation by external ionic gelation.

Oleaginous microorganisms, including the fungus Umbelopsis isabellina, have emerged as a biotechnological alternative to obtain polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich oils, which are strongly linked to energy purposes (biofuel) than the food industry. Considering the composition of microbial oil and its use by the food industry, it is necessary to investigate strategies that increase its lipid stability. Ergo, this pioneering study aimed to microencapsulate the oil produced by Umbelopsis isabellina and evaluate its oxidative stability throughout the storage period against factors such as temperature and luminosity. The microbial oil was microencapsulated through the external ionic gelation technique, producing an encapsulation efficiency of 80% and proving to be a suitable method because it maintained oil composition. Combining microencapsulation and refrigerated storage led to the best effects on storage time, increasing the evaluated lipid stability through the peroxide values and conjugated diene formation. Moreover, saturated and monounsaturated fatty acid content increased, and polyunsaturated fatty acid content decreased during storage for both the free and microencapsulated oil, regardless of storage temperature, although microencapsulation reduced the changes. The results primarily demonstrate how microencapsulation prolongs the oxidative stability and unsaturated fatty acid content of the microbial oil by reducing its reactions to external environmental factors, thus facilitating its use in the food industry.

Single-Position Surgery versus Lateral-Then-Prone-Position Circumferential Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Systematic Literature Review.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to compare the outcomes of single-position (SP) circumferential lumbar interbody fusion in lateral decubitus versus dual-position (DP) fusion. METHODS: A systematic literature review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases to identify comparative studies reporting the outcomes of SP lumbar interbody fusion versus DP. For risk of bias assessment, the ROBINS-I (risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions) tool was used. RESULTS: Four comparative studies were included from an initial search of 3780 papers. All 4 studies were retrospective cohort studies comparing outcomes of SP versus DP LLIF. A total of 349 patients were operated using SP versus 254 using DP. All studies involved reported operating time, estimated blood loss, length of stay, change in segmental lordosis, and complications. From a general perspective, baseline variables were similar in both groups in all the studies and all reported a significant decrease in operative time and length of stays with SP. CONCLUSIONS: Literature comparing SP versus lateral-then-prone lumbar fusion shows a tendency toward shorter operating time and hospital stays in SP lumbar fusion while maintaining similar perioperative outcomes.

20 Tips to Avoid and Handle Problems in the Placement of Percutaneous Pedicle Screws.

BACKGROUND: Two-dimensional fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous pedicle screw placement is currently the most widely applied instrumentation for minimally invasive treatment of spinal injuries requiring stabilization. Although this technique has advantages over open instrumentation, it also presents new challenges and specific complications. The objective of this study was to provide recommendations developed from the experience of several spinal surgeons at different minimally invasive spine surgery reference centers to solve specific problems and prevent complications during the learning curve of this technique. METHODS: An AO Spine Latin America minimally invasive spine surgery study group analyzed the most frequent complications and challenges occurring during the placement of >14,000 two-dimensional fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous pedicle screws at different centers over 15 years. Twenty tips considered most relevant to performing this technique, excluding problems directly related to specific brands of instruments, were presented. RESULTS: The 20 tips included the following: (1) positioning; (2) clean and painless; (3) fewer x-rays; (4) check the clock; (5) beveled tip; (6) transverse-rib-pedicle; (7) double Jamshidi; (8) hammer the Kirschner wire; (9) bent tip; (10) too loose, too tight; (11) new trajectory; (12) manual control; (13) start over; (14) Kirschner wire first; (15) adhesive drape control; (16) bend the rod; (17) lower rods; (18) freehand inner; (19) posterior fusion; (20) revision. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of these tips might improve performance of this technique and reduce the complications related to percutaneous pedicle screw placement.