Relationship of disc degeneration after pubertal growth spurt to future low back pain: a longitudinal cohort study.

PURPOSE: In this longitudinal cohort study, we investigated the relationship of disc degeneration (DD) after pubertal growth spurt to future low back pain (LBP). METHODS: A group of healthy volunteers underwent a semi-structured interview about LBP without trauma and a 1.5T lumbar MRI at ages 18 and 34. A Pfirrmann Summary Score (PSS) was calculated by adding up the Pfirrmann grades of the three lowest lumbar discs of each subject (range 3-15). The relationship of PSS at age 18 to LBP at age 34 was analyzed. RESULTS: Forty-one participants had full data at both time points. Mean PSS at age 18 was 6.8 (SD 1.1) and 5.6 (SD 1.2) for participants with or without LBP at age 34, respectively (p = 0.009). The OR (95% CI) of PSS at age 18 for LBP at age 34 was 5.46 (1.22 to 24.47) when adjusted for sex, BMI, smoking and physical activity. All participants but one with PSS greater than 6 at age 18 reported LBP at age 34. CONCLUSION: This is the first study to suggest that DD may be associated with future LBP and the critical time frame seems to be the pubertal growth spurt. Every 1-point increase in Pfirrmann grade at age 18 increased the risk of LBP 5.5-fold at age 34 when adjusted for sex, BMI, smoking and physical activity at age 34. All participants but one with at least one disc with Pfirrmann grade 3 or higher at age 18 reported LBP at age 34.

Anaesthetic considerations in posterior instrumentation of scoliosis due to spinal muscular atrophy: Case series of 56 operated patients.

BACKGROUND: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare illness that often leads to severe kyphoscoliosis. This case series adds to the heretofore sparse information as regards the anaesthetic management of SMA scoliosis patients. METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed the charts of 79 SMA patients (type II n = 34 and type III n = 45) presenting for possible scoliosis surgery during the time period 2007-2019. Special attention focused on preoperative assessment and clearance requirements, anaesthesia protocol and postoperative handling. RESULTS: Out of 79 patients, 17 did not receive clearance for the procedure mostly due to grave respiratory insufficiency. Out of 62 patients with clearance for both surgery and anaesthesia, 56 patients [44 females, 12 males; age mean ± SD (range) 22 ± 7.3 (10-40) years] underwent the procedure. Their forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s were mean ± SD (range) 1.41 ± 0.53 (0.61-2.65) L and 1.26 ± 0.47 (0.52-2.27) L, respectively. Intubation difficulties and their resolution, e.g. with the help of fibreoptic technique and video laryngoscopy, are described. All 56 patients were extubated in the operating room postoperativley. Patients stayed at the postanaesthesia care unit for one (n = 48) or two (n = 8) nights. A considerable amount of the patients (19/56) developed hypokalaemia postoperatively. CONCLUSION: This analysis is one of the bigger series of its kind and adds insight into the preoperative clearance process, the anaesthetic protocol and some of the postoperative complications, e.g. the tendency for developing postoperative hypokalaemia which has not been reported previously.

Concomitant low-grade isthmic L5-spondylolisthesis does not affect the course of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: Scoliosis with spondylolisthesis was described in 4.4-48%. No information on clinical impact or outcome is available. PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence of this pathology and to investigate its affect on the course of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). METHODS: A retrospective comparative study using patients' records, radiographs, the national inpatient registry, and Patient-rated outcome measures (PROM): Oswestry disability index (ODI), modif.SRS-24 questionnaire, WHO-Quality of life index (WHOQoL), Numerical rating scale (NRS) for pain. Clinical follow-up time was 4.4 (4.3) years, and follow-up rate was 95%. PROM follow-up time 26.4 (2.8) years χ2 statistics and t-tests were applied. Significance threshold was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Out of 1531 consecutive Caucasian AIS patients, aged 13.9 (1.8) years, primary curve 29.2 (11.5) drs., 120 (7.8%) had low-grade isthmic L5-slip of mean 15.0 (8.3)% (Study group = S). The distribution of the curve types in the study group was comparable to the remaining 1411 patients with AIS only. In comparison with a pair-matched control group (C) at admission, back pain interfering with activities of daily living had 4.2% of the study group and 1.7% of the control group, at clinical follow-up 2.6/4.2% resp. (n.s.). Between groups S/C, there was no significant difference concerning scoliosis treatment: observation 38.3/45.8%, bracing 48.3/46.6%, surgery 10.8/10.2%. Results of treatment were equal in both groups. Long-term outcomes (ODI, SRS-24, WHOQoL, NRS-back/leg pain) were comparable. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of low-grade isthmic L5-spondylolisthesis in AIS patients was 7.8%. The presence of low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis did not influence the curve type of AIS nor did it affect the course or long-term outcome. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Spinal epidural lipomatosis: a common imaging feature in Scheuermann disease.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: To find out if spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) occurs more commonly among patients with Scheuermann disease than in the general population. SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND: On the basis of our own radiologic and operative observation, SEL seems to occur frequently in patients with Scheuermann disease. METHODS: Magnetic resonance imaging of 87 individuals (72% male, average age 19±6 y) from 2 centers (29 consecutive patients with Scheuermann disease and 58 controls) were retrospectively evaluated by 2 neuroradiologists. Spinal epidural fat (EF) at seventh thoracic vertebra (EF7), maximum EF (EFmax), dural sac diameter at T7 and at the level of maximum EF (DS7 and DSmax) were measured. EF ratios at T7 (EFR7) and at maximum EF (EFRmax) were calculated as EF/DS. Body mass index (BMI) for study population and kyphosis severity for the patients were recorded. Mann-Whitney, Spearman correlation, and χ tests were performed dependent on the variable in question. RESULTS: EF7, DS7, EFmax, EFR7, and EFRmax was significantly higher among patients with Scheuermann disease (EFmax 5.7±2.4 mm) than among controls (EFmax 3.8±1.1 mm), P<0.001. Twelve patients with Scheuermann disease (41%) fulfilled our proposed criteria for the diagnosis of SEL (EFmax>6 mm+EFRmax>0.51) compared with 2 (3%) among controls (P<0.001). Patients with Scheuermann disease exhibited higher BMI than controls (24.9±5 kg/m vs. 22.9±4 kg/m, P=0.138). Logistic regression showed that the occurrence of SEL among patients with Scheuermann disease was independent of BMI (P=0.880). The degree of kyphosis in patients with Scheuermann's disease (62±20°) was correlated to the amount of the EF. CONCLUSIONS: As SEL occurs more frequently among patients with Scheuermann disease, spine magnetic resonance imaging should be routinely performed to screen each of these patients to avoid impending neurological injury during surgery, especially in those exhibiting SEL.

Knee arthroscopy and exercise versus exercise only for chronic patellofemoral pain syndrome: 5-year follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: To study the long-term outcome of arthroscopy in patients with chronic patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), the authors conducted a randomised controlled trial. The authors also investigated factors predicting the outcome in patients with PFPS. METHODS: Fifty-six patients with PFPS were randomised into two groups: an arthroscopy group (N=28), treated with knee arthroscopy and an 8-week home exercise programme, and a control group (N=28), treated with a similar 8-week home exercise programme only. The primary outcome was the Kujala score on pain and function at 5-year. Secondary outcomes were visual analogue scales (VASs) to assess activity-related symptoms. RESULTS: According to the Kujala score, both groups showed a marked improvement during the 5-year follow-up: a mean improvement of 14.7 (95% CI 9.9 to 19.4) in the arthroscopy group and 13.5 (95% CI 8.1 to 18.8) in the controls. No differences between the groups in mean improvement in the Kujala score (group difference 1.2 (95% CI -8.4 to 6.1)) or in the VAS scores were found. None of the investigated factors predicted the long-term outcome, but in most of the cases the treatment result immediately after the exercise programme remained similar also after the 5-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: Our RCT, being the first of its kind, indicates that the 5-year outcome in most of the patients with chronic PFPS treated with knee arthroscopy and home exercise programme or with the home exercise programme only is equally good in both groups. Some of the patients in both groups do have long-term symptoms.

Long-term health-related quality of life after surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and spondylolisthesis.

BACKGROUND: The aim of surgical treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is primarily to prevent progression and secondarily to correct the deformity, whereas the goal of surgical treatment of pediatric spondylolisthesis is mainly to relieve pain and, in patients with a high-grade slip, to prevent progression. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term health-related quality of life after surgery for idiopathic scoliosis and spondylolisthesis in adolescence. METHODS: One hundred and ninety patients, with a mean age of fifteen years, who were treated surgically for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and 270 patients, with a mean age of sixteen years, who were treated surgically for low-grade or high-grade spondylolisthesis participated in the present study. The mean duration of follow-up was 14.8 years for the scoliosis group and 17.0 years for the spondylolisthesis group. Radiographs were made preoperatively, at the time of the two-year follow-up, and at the time of the final follow-up. Additionally, a physical examination was performed, and the Scoliosis Research Society-24 and Short Form-36 questionnaires were completed at the final follow-up evaluation. RESULTS: The median total score on the Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire was 102 (range, 63 to 118) for the scoliosis group and 95 (range, 42 to 115) for the spondylolisthesis group (p < 0.001). After adjusting for age at the time of surgery, gender, and duration of follow-up, the patients with scoliosis had a significantly higher odds ratio for a good total score (> or = 90 points) on the Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire than did patients with spondylolisthesis (odds ratio, 2.65 [95% confidence interval, 1.58 to 4.44]; p = 0.0002). Patients in the scoliosis group had better values for general self-image, postoperative self-image, and postoperative function than did patients in the spondylolisthesis group (p < 0.001). Sixteen patients in both groups reported that they had back pain often or very often at rest. The standardized physical component scale on the Short Form-36 yielded slightly but significantly better values for the scoliosis group (median, 53.8 points; range, 32 to 61 points) compared with the spondylolisthesis group (median, 53.4 points; range, 27 to 59 points) (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Patients have good long-term health-related quality of life after surgery for idiopathic scoliosis and spondylolisthesis in adolescence. Patients who have surgery for idiopathic scoliosis are likely to have better long-term outcomes than are patients who have surgery for spondylolisthesis. It is possible that back pain in adolescence may affect quality of life more than spinal deformity does.

Knee arthroscopy and exercise versus exercise only for chronic patellofemoral pain syndrome: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopy is often used to treat patients with chronic patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). As there is a lack of evidence, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to study the efficacy of arthroscopy in patients with chronic PFPS. METHODS: A total of 56 patients with chronic PFPS were randomized into two treatment groups: an arthroscopy group (N = 28), treated with knee arthroscopy and an 8-week home exercise program, and a control group (N = 28), treated with the 8-week home exercise program only. The arthroscopy included finding-specific surgical procedures according to current recommendations. The primary outcome was the Kujala score on patellofemoral pain and function at 9 months following randomization. Secondary outcomes were visual analog scales (VASs) to assess activity-related symptoms. We also estimated the direct healthcare costs. RESULTS: Both groups showed marked improvement during the follow-up. The mean improvement in the Kujala score was 12.9 (95% confidence interval (CI) 8.2-17.6) in the arthroscopy group and 11.4 (95% CI 6.9-15.8) in the control group. However, there was no difference between the groups in mean improvement in the Kujala score (group difference 1.1 (95% CI -7.4 - 5.2)) or in any of the VAS scores. Total direct healthcare costs in the arthroscopy group were estimated to exceed on average those of the control group by euro901 per patient (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: In this controlled trial involving patients with chronic PFPS, the outcome when arthroscopy was used in addition to a home exercise program was no better than when the home exercise program was used alone. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN 41800323.

Uninstrumented in situ fusion for high-grade childhood and adolescent isthmic spondylolisthesis: long-term outcome.

BACKGROUND: Intermediate-term radiographic studies have shown that anterior and circumferential techniques result in high fusion rates in patients with high-grade spondylolisthesis, whereas posterolateral fusion is less successful. We are not aware of any long-term comparative studies in which these three methods have been evaluated with regard to functional outcome, including systematic spinal mobility and trunk strength measurements. METHODS: Sixty-nine of eighty-three consecutive patients with high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis who underwent posterolateral (twenty-one), anterior (twenty-three), or circumferential (twenty-five) uninstrumented spondylodesis between 1977 and 1991 participated in the study. The average duration of follow-up was 17.2 years. Radiographs that were made preoperatively and at the time of the most recent follow-up were assessed with regard to fusion quality and degenerative changes. Outcome was assessed at the time of the most recent follow-up by independent observers on the basis of a physical examination, spinal mobility and nondynamometric trunk strength measurements, and Oswestry Disability Index scores. RESULTS: The mean preoperative vertebral slip was 61% in the posterolateral fusion group, 63% in the anterior fusion group, and 71% in the circumferential fusion group. The final fusion rate was 86% (eighteen of twenty-one) in the posterolateral fusion group, 100% (twenty-three of twenty-three) in the anterior fusion group, and 96% (twenty-four of twenty-five) in the circumferential fusion group. A decrease in lumbar intervertebral disc height at the first mobile level superior to the fusion was noted in five patients in the posterolateral fusion group, seven patients in the anterior fusion group, and one patient in the circumferential fusion group (p = 0.037). The mean Oswestry Disability Index score was 9.7 for the posterolateral fusion group, 8.9 for the anterior fusion group, and 3.0 for the circumferential fusion group (p = 0.035). Nondynamometric trunk strength measurements corresponded with referential values. Abnormally low lumbar flexion affected the posterolateral and circumferential fusion groups more often than the anterior fusion group (p = 0.0015). The percentage of slip showed inverse correlations with lumbar flexion, lumbar extension, and trunk side-bending. CONCLUSIONS: As assessed on the basis of patient-based outcomes, circumferential in situ fusion provided slightly better long-term results than did posterolateral or anterior in situ fusion. When the radiographic and functional results were combined with the patient-based outcomes, the overall differences between the three groups were small.

Results of brace treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in boys compared with girls: a retrospective study of 102 patients treated with the Boston brace.

The aim of the study was to compare the results of brace treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in male patients with matched female patients and to assess the effectiveness of bracing of boys in AIS and to discuss the results with published data. Between 1987 and 1995, 51 consecutive male patients with AIS were treated with the Boston brace. The patients were advised to wear the brace 23 h/day. The medical records of all patients were reviewed. Cobb angles and Risser signs were measured before bracing, in brace, at brace discontinuation and at final follow-up. Everyone of 51 male patients was compared with a female patient who was treated by the same method and matched by Risser sign, curve pattern, curve magnitude and duration of treatment and follow-up time. Compliance with brace was noted at every visit. Fourteen boys had worn the brace only during nighttime or occasionally and were considered non-compliant. Only compliant patients with treatment period > 1 year and follow-up > 1 year after treatment were accepted for the analyses of effectiveness of brace treatment and its prognostic factors. Thirty-three boys met these inclusion criteria. Bracing was considered to have a failure if > 5 degrees progression occurred or if surgery was performed. At the final follow-up study progression > 5 degrees was found in 16/51 (31.4%) of male patients. Corresponding figures of female patients were 11/51 (21.6%), respectively. In compliant boys progression > 5 degrees occurred in 6/33 boys compared with 9/33 girls. The association between risk of progression and correction% in brace was statistically significant. The overall results of brace treatment of idiopathic scoliosis in male patients were inferior compared with matched females. One reason for inferior overall results in boys was poor compliance with brace wear. However, brace treatment in AIS may be recommended with the same principles in both genders.

Long-term outcome after posterolateral, anterior, and circumferential fusion for high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents: magnetic resonance imaging findings after average of 17-year follow-up.

STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional study to evaluate the long-term result of posterolateral (PLF), anterior (AF), and circumferential fusion (CF) for isthmic spondylolisthesis. OBJECTIVES: To assess the long-term effects of PLF, AF, or CF for high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis on lumbar spine in children and adolescents by using MRI. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Short- and mid-term clinical and plain radiographic results of isthmic spondylolisthesis and of PLF, AF, and CF in severe slip are well documented. The long-term effect of the fusion on soft tissues, on the intervertebral discs inside and above fusion in particular, is, however, unclear. METHODS: Between 1977 and 1991, PLF (n = 21), AF (n = 22), or CF (n = 24) was performed on 67 patients (42 females, 25 males) with high-grade (slip > or =50%) isthmic spondylolisthesis. The average age of patients at the time of operation was 14.4 (range, 8.9-19.6) years. Clinical, spinal mobility and trunk strength in addition to MRI and plain radiograph examinations were performed on these patients after an average follow-up time of 17.3 years (range, 10.7-26.0 years). RESULTS: Three (14%) patients in the PLF and AF groups, but none in the CF group, reported back pain often or very often at rest. The mean Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) was 9.7 (range, 0-62) in the PLF, 8.1 (0-32) in the AF, and 2.3 (0-14) in the CF group (P < 0.05). The mean slip before surgery was 66% (range, 50%-100%) and at the last follow-up visit 66% (range, 26%-106%). Disc degeneration was most common in the PLF group (P = 0.0014) and inside the fusion and in the lowest moving intervertebral disc spaces in all subgroups. Only 1 patient had an asymptomatic prolapse. In MR images, none of the patients had lumbar central canal stenosis inside or above the fusion. In contrast, the spinal canal was wide at the spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis level in 23 (34%) patients. Of the patients, 19 (28%) patients (32 neural foramens) had severe narrowing of the neural foramen with impingement of the nerve root. No patients had clinically confirmed L5 nerve root symptoms. Muscle degeneration was found in 29 (43%) of patients. Longer fusion and muscle degeneration, but not disc degeneration, were associated with lower performance in spinal mobility and trunk-strength measurement tests. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical outcome was best in the CF group as measured by ODI. Degenerative changes were most commonly found at the level of the slip and above the fusion level. The prevalence of disc prolapses was low. Spinal fusion for isthmic spondylolysis is not associated with central canal stenosis above the fusion. Radiologic nerve root stenosis was common but asymptomatic. Mild muscle atrophy was common.

Treatment of severe spondylolisthesis in adolescence with reduction or fusion in situ: long-term clinical, radiologic, and functional outcome.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective follow-up study with two cohorts: one treated with reduction and the other with fusion in situ. OBJECTIVE: To assess the long-term effects of reduction versus fusion in situ on lumbar spine in children and adolescents with severe L5 isthmic spondylolisthesis. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Severe isthmic spondylolisthesis is commonly treated with fusion in situ, but modern surgical techniques and instrumentation permit the reduction of a severely slipped fifth lumbar vertebra. Advocates of one or another of these procedures present different claims to defend their choice. However, to our knowledge, no long-term results of the reduction maneuver exist. METHODS: Between 1983 and 1991, 22 adolescents with severe (more than 60%) slip were treated surgically. In 11 of them, reduction was performed with a Magerl/Dick transpedicular device, followed by fusion posteriorly from L4 or L5 to S1 and anteriorly from L5 to S1. In the others, fusion was performed in situ posteriorly from L4 (n = 7) or L5 (n = 4) to S1 and anteriorly from L5 to S1. The average age of patients at surgery was 14.7 years (range 10.7-18.5). Radiographs obtained before surgery, after surgery, and at the final follow-up evaluation were assessed for quality of fusion. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging was obtained at the last follow-up visit. Average follow-up time was 14.8 years (range 11.6-18.7). Physical examination, spinal mobility, and nondynamometric trunk strength measurements were used to assess, and Oswestry Disability Index and Scoliosis Research Society scores were used to calculate outcome at the last follow-up visit. RESULTS: In the reduction group, mean Oswestry Disability Index was 7.2 (range 0-20) and in the fusion in situ group, was 1.6 (range 0-4) (P = 0.0096). The Scoliosis Research Society total score averaged 90.0 (range 39-107) in the reduction group and 103.9 (range 93-120) in the fusion in situ group (P = 0.046). At the last follow-up evaluation, mean vertebral slip had decreased from the preoperative value of 90% to 57% in the reduction group but remained the same (80% vs. 78%) in the fusion in situ group (P = 0.04 and 0.013, respectively, for preoperative and postoperative comparison). On magnetic resonance imaging, disc degeneration above the fusion was more common in the reduction group (P = 0.004). None of the patients had spinal stenosis above the fusion. Nerve root canal impingement at the L5-S1 level was more common in the fusion in situ group (P = 0.03), but all patients were free of L5 nerve root symptoms. There was no difference in spinal mobility or trunk strength measurements between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: The fusion in situ group seems to perform better in almost all clinical parameters measured. These findings suggest that fusion in situ should be considered as a method of choice in severe L5 isthmic spondylolisthesis.

Posterolateral, anterior, or circumferential fusion in situ for high-grade spondylolisthesis in young patients: a long-term evaluation using the Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective, comparative follow-up study. OBJECTIVE: To compare clinical and radiographic outcomes after posterolateral, anterior, or circumferential fusion in situ for high-grade spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Controversial opinions still exist about the surgical treatment of severe isthmic spondylolisthesis. There are no long-term comparative studies of different fusion in situ techniques in these patients. METHODS: A total of 21 patients treated using posterolateral, 23 using anterior, and 26 using the circumferential fusion technique without instrumentation for high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis (>or=50% slip) participated. Their mean age at surgery was 14.4 years (range 8.0-19.6). The follow-up rate was 84% after a mean of 17.2 years (range 10.7-26.0). Radiographs were obtained before surgery, at 2-year follow-up, and at final follow-up. The Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) and Oswestry Disability Index questionnaires were completed, and a physical examination was performed at the final follow-up visit. RESULTS: Progression of lumbosacral kyphosis (>or=10 degrees ) was found in 9 (43%), 3 (13%), and 3 (12%) patients of the posterolateral, anterior, and circumferential fusion groups, respectively (P = 0.017). The SRS total score averaged 89.7 (range 56-105) in the posterolateral, 93.2 (range 66-114) in the anterior, and 100.0 (range 71-117) in the circumferential fusion groups (P = 0.021). Patients in the circumferential fusion group had better values for pain (P = 0.023) and function from back condition domains (P = 0.079) than patients in the posterolateral or anterior groups. The Oswestry Disability Index averaged 9.7 (range 0-62) in the posterolateral, 8.9 (range 0-32) in the anterior, and 3.0 (range 0-16) in the circumferential fusion groups (P = 0.035). CONCLUSIONS: Circumferential fusion provided significantly better long-term clinical, radiographic, and SRS total score than posterolateral or anterior fusion for high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis.

No correlation between patient outcome and abnormal lumbar MRI findings 21 years after posterior or posterolateral fusion for isthmic spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents.

Between 1977 and 1987, posterior (n=29) or posterolateral (n=73) fusion was performed for mild to moderate (slip <50%) isthmic spondylolisthesis on 102 patients (46 females, 56 males). The patients' average age at the time of operation was 15.9 (range, 8.1-19.8) years. Clinical (physical examination and Oswestry disability index (ODI)) and radiological (MRI and plain radiographs) examinations were performed on these patients after an average follow-up time of 21.0 (range, 26.2-15.1) years. In the radiographs, the mean slip preoperatively was 27% (range, 5-50%) and at the last follow-up visit 26% (range, 5-78%). Inside the fusion, there were a total of 148 intervertebral discs, 121 (82%) of them had decreased signal intensity in T2-weighted MR images and 113 (76%) were narrowed. Above the fusion level, 27 (27%) discs were speckled and 27 (27%) were black; 21 (21%) intervertebral disc spaces were narrowed. Two levels above the fusion level the numbers were 8 (8%), 16 (16%) and 16 (16%), respectively. Six (6%) patients had a prolapse. Degenerative facet joint hypertrophy above fusion was seen at 80 (79%) of the levels studied. When compared to healthy subjects higher frequency of disc and facet joint degeneration was found. In MR images, none of the patients had lumbar spinal stenosis inside or above the fusion. Narrowing of one or both of the neural foramina at the level of the L5-S1 interververtebral disc was noted in 32 (31%) patients. Seventeen (17%) of the patients had, usually mild, muscular atrophy of the psoas and 33 (32%) of the paraspinal muscles. There was no difference in frequency of abnormal MRI findings between patients (n=93) with ODI 20 or less compared with patients (n=9) with ODI more than 20. In situ fusion due to isthmic spondylolsthesis at adolescence is associated with moderate degenerative changes in the lumbar spine during a 20-year follow-up. Changes were most commonly found at the level of the spondylolisthesis and above fusion level. Neural foramina stenosis seems to be associated with spondylolisthesis and its severity to severity of the slip. Muscle atrophy tended to be mild. However, there was no correlation between patient outcome (ODI) and abnormal lumbar MRI findings.

Scheuermann's kyphosis: surgical management.

Indications for surgery in Scheuermann disease are not well codified and remain rare, as the natural history of the disease is in most cases benign. In the immature adolescent, conservative treatment, such as bracing or casting, can be tried for moderate curves. For larger curves, or in the adult, conservative treatment is usually not effective, and surgery can be considered. Such indications are mostly cosmetic for large curves above 75 degrees. Pain over the deformity or in the low back may represent another surgical indication, especially in the adult group. The question of anterior release or straight posterior fusion has become more of an actuality with the advent of powerful, third-generation stiff segmental instrumentation. However, the long-term results of a modern, posterior-only instrumentation fusion are not known. Concern about loss of correction, late pseudarthrosis or the need to remove instrumentation for infected hardware or due to late pain at the operative site must make us careful about choosing this method. Very rigid and large curves still require an anterior release, either done in a conventional or mini-open fashion, or through video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. The extent of the posterior instrumentation has now been better defined. One must fuse the whole Cobb angle without hypercorrection and stop distally, above the first lordotic disc, to avoid sagittal decompensation. New approaches such as short anterior fusion with bone-on-bone techniques and pedicle substraction osteotomies have not yet been reported in the literature as having been used for treating Scheuermann's kyphosis. These should be considered experimental.

Does gender affect outcome of surgery in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective follow-up study comparing 2 matched groups. OBJECTIVE: To compare long-term results of operative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) between males and females matched for age, curve magnitude and type, and the instrumentation used. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: It has been suggested that in AIS, the spine is more rigid in males than in females, because brace treatment fails to halt progression of the curves in males. However, there are no studies comparing the results of surgical treatment of AIS between males and females. METHODS: Thirty male and female pairs were matched for age (+/-1 year), major curve magnitude (+/-5 degrees), curve type according to the King classification, and the instrumentation used (Harrington in 11 pairs, Cotrel-Dubousset in 9 pairs, and Universal Spine System in 10 pairs). The mean age at the time of operation was 16.2 +/- 2.6 years for the males and 15.5 +/- 2.3 years for the females. The mean follow-up times were 14.3 years (range 6.7-23.0 years) and 14.1 year (range 6.4-23.7 years), respectively. Radiographs were obtained presurgery and after surgery, at the 2-year follow-up assessment, and at the final follow-up visit. In addition, a physical examination was performed, and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) questionnaire was completed. Spine mobility and nondynamometric trunk strength were measured at the final follow-up visit. RESULTS: Before surgery, the mean Cobb angle of the thoracic curve was 55 degrees (range 42-83 degrees) in the males and 56 degrees (range 43-80 degrees) in the females. In bending radiographs, the major curve reduced significantly more in females than in males (P = 0.027). The mean angles of the thoracic and lumbar curves were similar at all follow-up visits. The final correction of the thoracic curves was 30% (range -19-65%) in the males and 33% (range -7-71%) in the females (not significant). No significant difference was observed in thoracic kyphosis or lumbar lordosis between the study groups at the final follow-up. The total SRS questionnaire score averaged 96 (range 66-113) in the males and 95 (range 75-108) in the females. None of the males and 2 of the females reported back pain often or very often in the questionnaire. Nondynamometric trunk strength measurements corresponded with reference values, on average, and were similar in both groups. Abnormal trunk side bending tended to be more common in the males than in the females (43% vs. 23%, P = 0.10, not significant). CONCLUSIONS: Curves in males appear to be more rigid than in females with AIS. However, posterior surgery for AIS provides similar short and long-term results in males and females.

Scoliosis research society outcome instrument in evaluation of long-term surgical results in spondylolysis and low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis in young patients.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective follow-up study of low-grade (slip < or = 50%) isthmic spondylolisthesis after posterior or posterolateral fusion in young patients. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the usefulness of the Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire and compare it with Oswestry Disability Index and radiographic parameters in patients with isthmic spondylolisthesis. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: A few studies have examined long-term patient outcome using validated questionnaires or compared it with radiographic parameters after surgery for isthmic spondylolisthesis in young patients. The Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire provides patient-oriented information on back pain, cosmetic aspects, patient satisfaction, and level of activity and might therefore be suitable for evaluation of surgical outcome after isthmic spondylolisthesis in young patients. However, there are no studies assessing the usefulness of the Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire for these patients. METHODS: One hundred and eight patients treated at a mean (range) age of 15.9 (range, 8.1-19.8) years with posterior (n = 29) or posterolateral (n = 79) in situ fusion for isthmic spondylolisthesis participated in the present study. The follow-up rate was 83% after a mean of 20.8 (range, 15.1-25.9) years. The mean age at follow-up observation was 36.7 years. Radiographs were obtained before surgery, at 2-year follow-up observation, and at final follow-up review. The Scoliosis Research Society and Oswestry Disability Index questionnaires were completed, and a physical examination was performed at the final follow-up visit. RESULTS: Nonunion after primary operation was found in 10 (34%) patients after posterior fusion and in 10 (13%) patients after posterolateral fusion (P = 0.0017). The mean (range) anterior slip was 25.2% (0-50%) before surgery and 24.2% (0-78%) at final follow-up observation. Lumbosacral kyphosis increased significantly during the follow-up period. The Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire yielded a total of 94.0 (range, 44-114) points. On the Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire, 14 (14%) patients reported back pain often or very often at rest. The Oswestry Disability Index scores averaged 8.2 (range, 0-68). There was a significant correlation between the Scoliosis Research Society total score and the Oswestry Disability Index. The percentage slip showed significant inverse correlations with the scores for appearance in clothes, attractiveness, and self image (Scoliosis Research Society questions 5, 14, and 15). CONCLUSIONS: Long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes after posterolateral fusion of low-grade spondylolisthesis were satisfactory. Cosmetic aspects of this deformity should be included as one of the outcome measurements, since cosmetic questions on the Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire showed inverse correlations between the amount of slip at final follow-up observation. The Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire could be used as a primary patient-oriented outcome tool after back surgery in young patients.

Long-term clinical, functional and radiological outcome 21 years after posterior or posterolateral fusion in childhood and adolescence isthmic spondylolisthesis.

Long-term radiological studies have shown that a high rate of fusion can be achieved with posterolateral spondylodesis. Radiological findings, however, do not always correlate with patient satisfaction and outcome. No studies have been conducted on the long-term results of functional outcome, including spinal mobility and trunk strength measurements, after operative treatment of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis, as compared with the reference population. Of 129 consecutive patients with isthmic spondylolisthesis operated on with spondylodesis between 1977 and 1987, 107 (83%) participated in the study. Posterior spondylodesis was performed in 29 (27%) patients and posterolateral spondylodesis in 78 (73%) patients. The average follow-up time was 20.9 years (range 15.1-26.2 years). Radiographs obtained preoperatively and at the 2-year and final follow-ups were assessed for quality of the fusion and degenerative changes. Outcome was assessed at the last follow-up by physical examination, spinal mobility and non-dynamometric trunk strength measurements, and calculation of Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores. The fusion rate was 66% after posterior fusion and 83% after posterolateral fusion. Degenerative changes in the lumbar intervertebral discs above the fusion level were noted in 13 (12%) patients. At the final follow-up 14% of patients reported back pain often or very often. The mean ODI score was 7.6 (0-68). Moderate disability was found in 6% of patients and severe disability in 1%; one patient was crippled. No correlation was found between disc degeneration or solidity of the fusion and the ODI score. Non-dynamometric trunk strength measurements corresponded with the reference values. Lumbar flexion, but not extension, was diminished when compared with that of the reference population. The overall long-term clinical outcome is good in patients with spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis operated on with posterior or posterolateral fusion. The clinical and radiological outcomes do not, however, appear to correlate with each other. Lumbar flexion is diminished, but the patients perform, on average, as well as the general population in non-dynamometric trunk strength measurements.

Implant removal for late-developing infection after instrumented posterior spinal fusion for scoliosis: reinstrumentation reduces loss of correction. A retrospective analysis of 45 cases.

A retrospective follow-up study of patients who, having undergone instrumented posterior spinal fusion for scoliosis, experienced late infection and then underwent either implant removal alone or implant removal and instrumented refusion. We conducted this study to determine whether it is possible to avoid loss of correction by a single-stage implant removal and reinstrumentation procedure. There have been a few reports of late-appearing infections after spinal instrumentation. Implant bulk, metallurgic reactions, and contamination with low-virulence microorganisms have been suggested as possible etiologic factors. The clinical symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and spontaneous drainage of fluid. Complete instrumentation removal and systemic antibiotics is usually curative. We retrospectively reviewed 45 patients who underwent instrumented posterior spinal fusion for scoliosis and experienced development of late infections and, after a mean of 3 years after the initial procedure, either underwent implant removal alone [ n=35, instrumentation removal (HR) group] or additionally underwent reinstrumentation and fusion [ n=10, reinstrumentation and fusion (RI&F) group]. Three patients were reinstrumented 1.5 years after instrumentation removal, and seven underwent a one-stage rod removal and reinstrumentation/refusion procedure. Allergic predisposition, protracted postoperative fever, and pseudarthrosis appear to increase the risk of late-developing infection after posterior spinal fusion. All wounds in both groups healed uneventfully. Preoperative radiographic Cobb measurements showed no statistically significant between-group differences. At follow-up, however, outcome was clearly better in the RI&F group: Loss of correction was significantly smaller in reinstrumented patients. Thus, the thoracic Cobb angle was 28+/-16 degrees (range 0-55 degrees ) in the RI&F group versus 42+/-15 degrees (21-80 degrees ) in the HR group, and the lumbar Cobb angle was 22+/-11 degrees (10-36 degrees ) in the RI&F group versus 29+/-12 degrees (13-54 degrees ) in the HR group. The results of our study demonstrate that wound healing is usually uneventful after instrumentation removal for late infection, also when patients undergo instrumented refusion in a one-stage procedure. Reinstrumentation appears to achieve permanent correction of scoliosis.

Cotrel-Dubousset (CD) or Universal Spine System (USS) instrumentation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS): comparison of midterm clinical, functional, and radiologic outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective comparison of the clinical, radiologic, and functional results of Cotrell-Dubousset (CD) and Universal Spine System (USS) instrumentation for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). OBJECTIVES: To establish whether there are any differences in outcome between the 2 instrumentation systems. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: CD is the first complex posterior double rod instrumentation system to provide multiple hook fixation. USS instrumentation permits the use of rod translation instead of rod rotation, the option to secure pedicle hooks with fixation screws, and the option to use transpedicular screws in the lower thoracic and lumbar spine. Midterm and long-term results of USS instrumentation are lacking. METHODS: Fifty-seven (mean age, 28 years at follow up) patients treated with CD instrumentation and 55 (mean age, 23 years at follow up) patients treated with USS instrumentation for AIS participated in the study. The average follow-up rate was 80% and time 13.0 years for the CD group, and 95% and 7.8 years for the USS group. Radiographs were obtained before surgery, at 2-year follow up, and at final follow up. Additionally, a physical examination was performed by 2 independent observers, and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) questionnaire was completed; spinal mobility and nondynamometric trunk strength were measured at the final follow-up visit. RESULTS.: The mean Cobb angle of the instrumented thoracic curve was before surgery 55 degrees (range, 36-83 degrees for the CD and 52 degrees (range, 35-85 degrees) for the USS group. The mean number of instrumented vertebrae was 9.9 (range, 7-12) in the CD and 9.8 (range, 6-12) in the USS group. At final follow up, the mean angles were 32 degrees (range, 13-63 degrees) for the CD group and 29 degrees (range, 9-63 degrees) for the USS group (not significant). No significant difference was observed in thoracic kyphosis or lumbar lordosis between the study groups at final follow up. In the SRS questionnaire, the total score averaged 97 for the CD and 101 for the USS groups, respectively. In the questionnaire, 6 (11%) patients in the CD group, but none in the USS group, reported having low back pain often or very often at rest. No correlation was found between the Cobb angle of the thoracic or lumbar curves at follow up and the total score or back pain indexes of this questionnaire. Nondynamometric trunk strength measurements corresponded with age- and sex-adjusted reference values, on average, but patients in the CD group performed significantly better in the squatting test (P = 0.021) and patients in the USS group performed better in trunk side bending (P = 0.004). Complications were recorded in 15 (26%) patients in the CD and in 13 (24%) patients in the USS group (not significant). CONCLUSIONS: The midterm radiologic and functional outcomes were quite similar in both groups as were the SRS scores. The patients performed, on average, as well as did the reference population in nondynamometric trunk strength measurements. Intraoperative and late complications were similar in both groups.