Diagnostic efficacy of tract-specific diffusion tensor imaging in cervical spondylotic myelopathy with electrophysiological examination validation.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of tract-specific diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics in identifying the responsible segments for neurological dysfunction in cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). METHODS: The study encompassed nineteen participants diagnosed with CSM, including 10 males and 9 females. Additionally, a control group consisting of ten healthy caregivers (5 males and 5 females) were recruited with no symptoms and no compressions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All participants underwent a comprehensive physical examination, MRI assessment, and DTI examination conducted by a senior chief physician. Several parameters were collected from the MR images, including the aspect ratio (defined as the anteroposterior diameter / the transverse diameter of the corresponding segment's spinal cord), transverse ratio (defined as the transverse diameter of the corresponding segment's spinal cord / the transverse diameter of the spinal cord at C2/3), and T2 high signal of the spinal cord. Furthermore, quantitative DTI metrics, such as axial diffusivity (AD), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), and fractional anisotropy (FA), were calculated using automatic region-of-interest (ROI) analysis for both whole spinal cord column and dorsal column. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the aspect ratio, transverse ratio, and DTI parameters. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated. Intraoperative spinal cord electrophysiological examination was performed as the objective measure of spinal cord function during surgery. RESULTS: As determined by electrophysiological examination, neurological dysfunction was found in 2 patients due to C3/4 compression, in 10 patients due to C4/5 compression, in 6 patients due to C5/6 compression, and in 1 patient due to C6/7 compression. The modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scale (mJOA) was 12.71 ± 1.55 in the CSM group, with 4.87 ± 0.72 for sensory nerve function and 5.05 ± 1.35 for motor nerve function. For the control group, none of the volunteers had neurological dysfunction. T2 high signal was found at the most stenotic segment in 13 patients of the CSM group. Considering all the cervical segments, the aspect ratio (AUC = 0.823, P = 0.001, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 82.47%) was more capable of determining the responsible segment than transverse ratio (AUC = 0.661, P = 0.027, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 67.01%). AD, MD, and RD were significantly higher while FA was significantly lower in the responsible segment than in the irresponsible segment (P < 0.05). The AUC of DTI-Dorsal column parameters (AD, MD, RD, FA) was larger than the corresponding parameters of the DTI (Whole spinal cord). AD of DTI-Dorsal Column possessed the greatest efficacy (AUC = 0.823, sensitivity = 84.21%, specificity = 77.32%) to determine the responsible segment, larger than AD of DTI-Whole spinal cord (AUC = 0.822, P = 0.001, Sensitivity = 89.47%, Specificity = 77.32%), aspect ratio (AUC = 0.823, P = 0.001, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 82.47%) and transverse ratio (AUC = 0.661, P = 0.027, Sensitivity = 68.42%, Specificity = 67.01%). Subgroup analysis revealed that the diagnostic efficacy of DTI and MRI parameters was influenced by cervical spine segment. CONCLUSIONS: When considering all cervical segments, AD from the DTI-Dorsal Column exhibited the most significant potential in identifying responsible segments. This potential was found to be superior to that of DTI-Whole spinal cord, aspect ratio, the most stenotic segment, T2 high signals, transverse ratio, motor nerve dysfunction, and sensory nerve dysfunction. The diagnostic effectiveness of both DTI and MRI parameters was notably influenced by the specific cervical spine segment.

Clinical and Radiological Characteristics of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy in Young Adults: A Retrospective Case Series of Patients under Age 30.

Background and Objectives: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a degenerative disease and occurs more frequently with age. In fact, the development of non-herniated CSM under age 30 is uncommon. Therefore, a retrospective case series was designed to clarify clinical and radiological characteristics of young adult patients with CSM under age 30. Materials and Methods: A total of seven patients, all men, with non-herniated, degenerative CSM under age 30 were retrieved from the medical records of 2598 hospitalized CSM patients (0.27%). Patient demographics and backgrounds were assessed. The sagittal alignment, congenital canal stenosis, dynamic canal stenosis, and vertebral slips in the cervical spine were radiographically evaluated. The presence of degenerative discs, intramedullary high-signal intensity lesions, and sagittal spinal cord compression on T2-weighted magnetic resonance images (MRIs) and axial spinal cord deformity on T1-weighted MRIs was identified. Results: All patients (100.0%) had relatively high daily sports activities and/or jobs requiring frequent neck extension. Cervical spine radiographs revealed the sagittal alignment as the "reverse-sigmoid" type in 57.1% of patients and "straight" type in 28.6%. All patients (100.0%) presented congenital cervical stenosis with the canal diameter ≤12 mm and/or Torg-Pavlov ratio <0.80. Furthermore, all patients (100.0%) developed dynamic stenosis with the canal diameter ≤12 mm and/or posterior vertebral slip ≥2 mm at the neurologically responsible segment in full-extension position. In MRI examination, all discs at the neurologically responsible level (100.0%) were degenerative. Intramedullary abnormal intensity lesions were detected in 85.7% of patients, which were all at the neurologically responsible disc level. Conclusions: Patients with non-herniated, degenerative CSM under age 30 are rare but more common in men with mild sagittal "reverse-sigmoid" or "straight" deformity and congenital canal stenosis. Relatively high daily activities, accumulating neck stress, can cause an early development of intervertebral disc degeneration and dynamic canal stenosis, leading to CSM in young adults.

High reliability and accuracy of dynamic magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of cervical Spondylotic myelopathy: a multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a critical condition that results in significant neurologic deterioration. An accurate diagnosis is essential for determining its outcome and prognosis. The pathology is strongly associated with dynamic factors; therefore, dynamic magnetic resonance (MR) image could be crucial to accurately detect CSM. However, very few studies have evaluated the reliability and accuracy of dynamic MR in CSM. In this study, we aimed to compare intra- and interobserver reliabilities and accuracy of dynamic MR in detecting CSM using sagittal MR scans of the neck in the flexed, neutral, and extended position. METHODS: Out of 131 patients who underwent surgical treatments for CSM, 107 were enrolled in this study. The patient underwent three-types of sagittal MR scans that were obtained separately in different neck positions (neutral, flexion, and extension postures). The MR scans of the cervical spine were evaluated independently by three spine professionals, on the basis of tabled questionnaires. For accuracy, we performed a receiver operator characteristic analysis, and the overall discriminating ability of each method was measured by calculating the area under the ROC curve. The Cohen's kappa coefficient and the Fleiss-generalized kappa coefficient was used to the inter- and intra-observer reliabilities. RESULTS: The intraobserver reliability (using the Cohen's kappa coefficient) and interobserver reliability (using the Fless kappa coefficient) were respectively 0.64 and 0.52 for the neutral sagittal MR. The accuracy of neutral sagittal MR in detecting CSM was 0.735 (95% CI, 0.720 to 0.741) while that of extension sagittal MRI was 0.932 (96% CI, 0.921 to 0.948). CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic MR significantly showed better diagnostic reliability and accuracy in detecting CSM compared to conventional MR. In particular, extension MR scans could provide a more accurate diagnosis than other images.

Transcorporeal decompression using a fully-endoscopic anterior cervical approach to treat cervical spondylotic myelopathy: surgical design and clinical application.

BACKGROUND: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a common procedure for treating cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), however, ACDF may cause pseudoarthrosis, accelerated degeneration of adjacent segments, loss of activity of fused segments and other complications. The full-endoscopic technique can treat CSM, without the aforementioned complications above. Therefore, it is of great clinical value to investigate the surgical scheme of anterior percutaneous full-endoscopic transcorporeal decompression of the spinal cord (APFETDSC). METHODS: A total of 28 cases with single-segment Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) from April 2017 to July 2019 were involved in this study. The size of the disc-osteophyte complex was measured using imaging data prior to the operation. The diameter and direction of the bony passage was determined according to the size and central position of the complex, respectively. Twenty-eight patients underwent the above scheme for CSM. The clinical outcome evaluations included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores. The imaging assessment included MRI, CT and X-rays. RESULTS: The diameter of the designed bony passage was about 6.9 mm, and directed toward the lower edge of the diseased lower vertebral body oblique to the center of the disc-osteophyte complex. All patients successfully completed the operation. The postoperative neck pain VAS and JOA were significantly improved compared to preoperative values (p < 0.01). Postoperative MRI indicated complete decompression of the spinal cord. CT scanning 1 year after the operation revealed an almost healed bony passage and X-ray imaging showed satisfactory physiological curvature of the cervical spine, without cervical instability. CONCLUSION: Based on the diameter and direction of the bony passage, as determined by the size and position of the disc-osteophyte complex, indicated by MRI and CT scanning, anterior percutaneous full-endoscopic transcorporeal decompression of the spinal cord offers good decompression of the spinal cord and ensures excellent therapeutic outcome.

Surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy in the elderly: a nationwide registry-based observational study with patient-reported outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate whether clinical outcomes in patients aged ≥ 70 undergoing decompressive surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) differ from those of younger patients (50-70 years) at 1 year. METHODS: Data were obtained from the Norwegian Registry for Spine Surgery (NORspine). Among 651 patients included, 177 (27.2%) were ≥ 70 years old. The primary outcome was change in the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Secondary outcomes were changes in the European Myelopathy Score (EMS), quality of life (EuroQoL EQ-5D), numeric rating scales (NRS) for headache, neck pain, and arm pain, and complications. RESULTS: Significant improvements in all patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) were detected for both age cohorts at 1 year. For the two age cohorts combined, there was a statistically significant improvement in the NDI score (mean 9.2, 95% CI 7.7 to 10.6, P < 0.001). There were no differences between age cohorts in mean change of NDI (- 8.9 vs. - 10.1, P = 0.48), EQ-5D (0.13 vs. 0.17, P = 0.37), or NRS pain scores, but elderly patients experienced a larger improvement in EMS (0.7 vs. 1.3, P = 0.02). A total of 74 patients (15.6%) in the younger cohort and 43 patients (24.3%) in the older cohort experienced complications or adverse effects within 3 months of surgery, mainly urinary and respiratory tract infections. CONCLUSION: Surgery for DCM was associated with significant improvement across a wide range of PROMs for both younger and elderly patients. Surgery for DCM should not be denied based on age alone.

Correlation of supine MRI and standing radiographs for cervical sagittal balance in myelopathy patients: a cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: Cervical sagittal alignment is correlated with myelopathy severity and used by spinal surgeons for surgical planification. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for the evaluation of cervical myelopathy but may not be for the assessment of cervical sagittal balance compared to X-rays. The objective of this study was to assess the correlation of cervical alignment between supine MRI and standing radiographs in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). METHODS: Cobb, Jackson and Harrison methods were used to measure cervical sagittal alignment on supine MRI and standing radiographs of CSM adults. Cervical alignment was divided based on Cobb angle values on lordotic (> 4°), kyphotic (< - 4°) and rectitude (- 4° to 4°). Correlations between radiographic and MRI measurements were determined. Intra- and interobserver reliability were assessed and MRI and X-Ray-measured angles were compared. RESULTS: One hundred and thirty patients with CSM were reviewed. Correlations of cervical lordosis measures between radiographs and MRI were strong using the Cobb (0.65) and Jackson (0.63) methods, and moderate using the Harrison (0.37) method. Mean cervical lordosis angle was significantly lower on supine MRI compared to standing radiographs for all methods (Cobb 11.6 Rx vs. 9.2 MRI, Jackson 14.6 vs. 11.6, Harrison 23.5 vs. 19.9). Eighteen patients (15.4%) without lordosis on supine MRI presented lordosis on standing radiographs. CONCLUSION: A substantial proportion of patients has sagittal alignment discrepancies between supine MRI and standing radiographs. Therefore, standing radiographs of the cervical spine should always be included in surgical planning of CSM patients.

Reliability and validity of multi-shot DWI in diagnosis of cervical spondylotic myelopathy: a study based on 3-T MRI.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether multi-shot diffusion-weighted imaging (ms-DWI) could be applied in diagnosis and quantitative evaluation of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). METHODS: Thirty-three normal volunteers and 78 patients with CSM were included in this study. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were measured at C2-C7 levels on sagittal section ADC map. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland and Altman plot and Spearman coefficient were used to quantify the reproducibility of test and retest and inter-rater reliability. Pearson correlations were calculated to compare lADC and rADC versus mJOA and NDI scores. Receiver operating characteristic curve and the area under the curve (AUC) were applied to evaluate the diagnostic reliability. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between ADC values obtained from normal volunteers at C2-C7 levels (P < 0.05). The ICC and spearman coefficient of lADC and rADC indicated excellent test-retest and inter-rater reliability. The mean lADC and rADC were significantly higher from patients than that from volunteers (all P < 0.01). The lADC had moderate to good correlations with mJOA and NDI (all P < 0.0001). Moreover, rADC had good to excellent correlations with mJOA and NDI (all P < 0.0001). Comparing AUCs, rADC was significantly superior in diagnosis which participants were CSM than lADC (P = 0.0118). CONCLUSION: The ms-DWI could be applied in diagnosis and quantitive assessment of CSM according to lADC and rADC. A new parameter, rADC, could be served as a diagnostic indice for CSM, which may quantitively reflect the severity of CSM. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

The value of dynamic MRI in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy: a protocol for a prospective randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is the most severe type of cervical spondylosis and the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction among adults over 55 years old. MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis and evaluation of CSM, which can directly demonstrate the correlation between disc, spinal cord, posterior structures and abnormal signal in spinal cord. Static MRI can only show the static and neutral position of spinal cord, which is not enough to understand the pathogenesis of CSM. Dynamic MRI demonstrating the extension and flexion position of spinal cord can be a better tool for the treatment of CSM, especially the surgical decision making. METHOD: A total of 180 CSM patients who have indications for surgery will be recruited in outpatient of Peking University Third Hospital and assigned to three groups (Group A, B and C) based on their static MRI after consent. Group A (incomplete dura compression) means the signal of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) is still visible. Group B (complete dura compression) means no CSF signal and no shape change of spinal cord. Group C (spinal cord compression) means shape change of spinal cord. Two surgical plans will be made for each participant by one professional surgeon according to the static MRI and dynamic MRI respectively and we will randomly choose one to perform via a random number system. Follow-up will be maintained at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery through outpatient or telephone interview, including mJOA score, 10-s G&R (grip and release) and 10-s step test, SF-36 score, radiographic examination and complications. Finally, data collection and statistical analysis will be finished by researchers who are blinded to recruitment and treatment. DISCUSSION: This study will help us to explore the indication of dynamic MRI and the value of dynamic MRI in the treatment of CSM, especially the surgical decision making. Dynamic MRI can be a useful tool in the treatment of CSM patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR1900023014. Registered on May 7th, 2019.

Outcome of surgical treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy: Experience in 120 patients.

OBJECTIVES: To document the outcome of spinal surgery in patients of cervical spondylotic myelopathy. METHODS: The quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Department of Spine Surgery at Combined Military in a tertiary care hospital in Rawalpindi from 2006 to 2013. A pre-designed proforma was used for each patient and records were kept a custom-built computer database. Neurik grading was used to assess neurological status preoperatively, at 6 months, 1 year and 2 years. RESULTS: There were 120 patients with a mean age of 60.08 years (range 26-82, standard deviation 13.13). Of them 108 (90%) were males and 12 (10%) females. The preoperative neurologic status was Nurick\'s grade 0 in 6 (5%) patients There were 120, I in 9 (7.5%), II in 23 (19.16%), III in 28 (23.33%) and IV in 19 (15.83%) and V in 35 (28.16%). The spine was approached anteriorly in 48 (40%) patients and posteriorly in 72 (60%). Single level was involved in 23 (19.16), two in 30 (25%), three in 22 (18.33%) and four in 45 (37.5%) cases. Anterior cervical disc excision and fusion was done in 26 (21.67%), anterior corpectomy and fusion with bone graft or a cage in 21(17.5%) cases, laminoplasty in 9 (7.5%), laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation with reconstruction titanium plate in 37 (30.83%) or with rod 24 (20%). In 3 (2.5%) cases only decompressive laminectomy was done. At 6 months Nurick 0 was in 26 %21.67%), I in 14 (11.67), II in 17 (14.16), III in 21 (17.5), IV in 29 (24.16%) and V in 13 (10.83). At one year Nurick grade was 0 in 38 (32.67%, I in 16 (13.33%), II in 14 (11.67), III in 15 (12.5%), IV in 23 (19.16) and V in 14 (11.67%). At the end of 2 years Neurik grade was 0 in 40 (33.33%), I in 15 (12.5%), II in 13 (10.83%), III in 16 (13.33%), IV in 22 (18.33% and V in 14 (11.67%). CONCLUSIONS: Single, double and triple levels with predominantly anterior cervical spondylotic myelopathy pathology can be operated anteriorly while multi-level disease with lordotic spine should be approached posteriorly.

Updates in current concepts in degenerative cervical myelopathy: a systematic review.

Background: The incidence of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) has increased over the years due to an increasing aging population, yet there is a dearth of recent comprehensive data evaluating the multiple facets of this degenerative condition. Recent publications have highlighted the biochemistry and biomechanics of DCM, which are paramount to understanding the degenerative nature of the condition and selecting the most optimal treatment options for improved patient outcomes. In addition, there have been recent studies establishing the superiority of surgical to non-surgical treatments for DCM, which until now was a poorly substantiated claim that has permeated the medical field for decades. The authors of this systematic review sought to collect and assess available high quality peer reviewed data to analyze the nature of DCM and gain a better understanding for its treatment choices. Methods: PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched on January 19, 2023 with date restrictions of 2015-2023 imposed. For initial data collection, five independent searches were completed using the following keywords: pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and epidemiology of DCM; cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) and DCM recent developments; management and treatment for CSM and DCM; diagnosis and management of DCM; and pathophysiology of DCM. The results were screened for their application to DCM; any study that did not directly address DCM were identified and removed through abstract assessment, such studies included those pertaining to alternative fields including cardiology and psychiatry. Studies found relevant through full-text assessment and those published in English were included in this study and unpublished studies and studies found irrelevant based on titles and keywords were excluded from this study. The 115 articles that met criteria were critically appraised independently by the 2 reviewers and the principles of Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) were applied to assess the quality of evidence from each study. Results: A total of 352 studies resulted from the original search. There were 71 duplicate articles that were removed and a total of 281 articles were screened. 166 articles were then removed based on the exclusion/inclusion criteria, title, and abstract. Of the 138 articles that remained, a final list of 115 articles was created based on the reporting measures. Conclusions: DCM is a multifactorial disease that has the potential to impair neurological function and cause significant paralysis. Although the multiple facets of this disease have not been fully elucidated, there have been significant breakthroughs in understanding the mechanisms involved in this disease process. The use of complex imaging modalities, genetic sequencing, biomarkers, and pharmacological agents has provided insight into the factors involved in the progression of DCM, which has consequently cultivated more refined approaches for diagnosis and treatment of DCM.

Charcot Neuroarthropathy of the Shoulder Caused by Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) is a chronic degenerative disorder of bones and joints, mostly associated with diabetes mellitus and human immunodeficiency virus. CN of the upper limb is rare, with only 58 case reports identified on PubMed with the majority of cases being closely associated with syringomyelia. Very rarely, cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is associated with CN of the upper limb; with very few literature reporting this association. This case report presents a rare case of Charcot arthropathy of the shoulder caused by CSM. A 57-year-old female presented to the emergency department following trauma to the right shoulder. On clinical examination, there was evidence of tenderness, extensive swelling, and bruising with a lack of range of motion along with numbness in the right arm and legs. Through radiographic and laboratory investigations, a diagnosis of CN secondary to CSM was made. A reverse total shoulder arthroplasty was performed however, this was complicated at two weeks with an atraumatic glenoid fracture and dislocation. First-stage revision surgery was then performed to allow fracture healing pending second-stage revision surgery. This report provides insight into the very rare possibility of the association of CN of the shoulder with CSM. A review of the literature suggests reverse shoulder arthroplasty is the gold standard for cases of severe bone and soft tissue damage. When undergoing investigations for Charcot neuroarthropathy, physicians must undertake a full detailed history along with a detailed neurological examination and imaging of the cervical spine to not miss the association with CSM.

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy-Diagnostics and Clinimetrics.

Cervical myelopathy is referred to in many ways in the English literature, for example, as cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), spondylotic radiculomyelopathy (SRM) or degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). In addition, more frequent occurrences are noted in older adults and to a greater extent in men. The causes of the effects of cervical myelopathy may be the appearance of lesions on the spinal cord, ischemia due to compression of the vertebral artery and repeated micro-injuries during maximal movements-hyperflexion or hyperextension. It is well known that lesions on the spinal cord may occur in a quarter of the population, and this problem is clearly noted in people over 60 years old. The symptoms of SCM develop insidiously, and their severity and side (unilateral or bilateral) are associated with the location and extent of spinal cord compression. Neurological examination most often diagnoses problems in the upper limbs (most often paresis with developing hand muscle atrophy), pyramidal paralysis in one or both lower limbs and disorders in the urinary system. To make a diagnosis of CSM, it is necessary to perform MRI and neurophysiological tests (such as EMG or sensory and/or motor-evoked potentials). The use of appropriately selected scales and specific tests in diagnostics is also crucial. This narrative review article describes the latest knowledge on the diagnosis and clinimetrics of cervical spondylotic myelopathy in adults and provides future directions.

Dynamic Flexion-Extension Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Cervical Spine: An Evolutionary Tool for Diagnosis and Management of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy.

Dynamic problems need dynamic solutions. High motility of the cervical spine causes a common age-related degenerative condition called cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), manifested by neurological impairments. An accurate and reliable diagnosis of CSM is crucial for determining appropriate management strategies. Traditional static magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been the gold standard for imaging CSM; however, it may not fully capture dynamic changes during neck movement. Dynamic flexion-extension (DFE) MRI is an innovative imaging technique that allows for real-time visualization of cervical spine motion. This review article aims to scrutinize the role of DFE MRI in assessing CSM, its added value to clinical implementations, and its limitations. Finally, by addressing the knowledge gaps, this survey sheds light on the road ahead to incorporate DFE MRI into a standard version of the practice.

The "pancake-like" enhancement in cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy, characterized by chronic spinal cord compression resulting from degenerative spine changes, manifests with a spectrum of neurological and pain symptoms. Despite the complexity of intramedullary spinal cord abnormalities, employing a systematic approach to differential diagnosis, considering factors such as lesion location, cord length, segment involvement, and enhancement pattern, can significantly aid in narrowing down the potential diagnoses, potentially avoiding invasive diagnostic procedures and guiding treatment decisions. This article presents two cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy characterized by progressive weakness and paraesthesia, exhibiting progressive bilateral upper extremity numbness, tingling, and impaired gait, with cervical myelopathy evident on MRI displaying transverse pancake-like gadolinium enhancement.

Potential thresholds of critically increased cardiac-related spinal cord motion in degenerative cervical myelopathy.

Introduction: New diagnostic techniques are a substantial research focus in degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). This cross-sectional study determined the significance of cardiac-related spinal cord motion and the extent of spinal stenosis as indicators of mechanical strain on the cord. Methods: Eighty-four DCM patients underwent MRI/clinical assessments and were classified as MRI+ [T2-weighted (T2w) hyperintense lesion in MRI] or MRI- (no T2w-hyperintense lesion). Cord motion (displacement assessed by phase-contrast MRI) and spinal stenosis [adapted spinal canal occupation ratio (aSCOR)] were related to neurological (sensory/motor) and neurophysiological readouts [contact heat evoked potentials (CHEPs)] by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results: MRI+ patients (N = 31; 36.9%) were more impaired compared to MRI- patients (N = 53; 63.1%) based on the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) subscores for upper {MRI+ [median (Interquartile range)]: 4 (4-5); MRI-: 5 (5-5); p < 0.01} and lower extremity [MRI+: 6 (6-7); MRI-: 7 (6-7); p = 0.03] motor dysfunction and the monofilament score [MRI+: 21 (18-23); MRI-: 24 (22-24); p < 0.01]. Both patient groups showed similar extent of cord motion and stenosis. Only in the MRI- group displacement identified patients with pathologic assessments [trunk/lower extremity pin prick score (T/LEPP): AUC = 0.67, p = 0.03; CHEPs: AUC = 0.73, p = 0.01]. Cord motion thresholds: T/LEPP: 1.67 mm (sensitivity 84.6%, specificity 52.5%); CHEPs: 1.96 mm (sensitivity 83.3%, specificity 65.6%). The aSCOR failed to show any relation to the clinical assessments. Discussion: These findings affirm cord motion measurements as a promising additional biomarker to improve the clinical workup and to enable timely surgical treatment particularly in MRI- DCM patients. Clinical trial registration: www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02170155.

Posterior hybrid surgery for atlantoaxial dislocation coexisting with multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Background: To introduce a hybrid surgery of posterior craniovertebral fusion plus subaxial laminoplasty for atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) coexisting with multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Methods: A retrospective study was performed by reviewing data from 23 patients with the coexistence of AAD and CSM who underwent the hybrid technique (n = 23). Clinical outcomes, including visual analogue scale (VAS), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA), and neck disability index (NDI) score, and radiological cervical alignment parameters including C0-2 and C2-7 Cobb angle and range of motion (ROM) were analyzed. The operation time, blood loss, surgical levels, and complications were recorded. Results: The included patients were followed up with an average of 20.91 months (range, 12-36 months). Clinical outcomes including JOA, NDI, and VAS scores were significantly improved at different postoperative follow-up points. C0-2 Cobb angle, C2-7 Cobb angle, and ROM showed a stable tendency after 1-year follow-up. No major perioperative complications occurred. Conclusion: This study underlined the importance of pathologic condition of AAD coexisting with CSM and presented a novel hybrid approach of posterior craniovertebral fusion plus subaxial laminoplasty. This hybrid surgery was effective in achieving the desired clinical outcomes and better maintaining cervical alignment, proving its value and safety as an alternative technique.

Deep Learning-Based Auto-Segmentation of Spinal Cord Internal Structure of Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy.

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a chronic disorder of the spinal cord. ROI-based features on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) provide additional information about spinal cord status, which would benefit the diagnosis and prognosis of CSM. However, the manual extraction of the DTI-related features on multiple ROIs is time-consuming and laborious. In total, 1159 slices at cervical levels from 89 CSM patients were analyzed, and corresponding fractional anisotropy (FA) maps were calculated. Eight ROIs were drawn, covering both sides of lateral, dorsal, ventral, and gray matter. The UNet model was trained with the proposed heatmap distance loss for auto-segmentation. Mean Dice coefficients on the test dataset for dorsal, lateral, and ventral column and gray matter were 0.69, 0.67, 0.57, 0.54 on the left side and 0.68, 0.67, 0.59, 0.55 on the right side. The ROI-based mean FA value based on segmentation model strongly correlated with the value based on manual drawing. The percentages of the mean absolute error between the two values of multiple ROIs were 0.07, 0.07, 0.11, and 0.08 on the left side and 0.07, 0.1, 0.1, 0.11, and 0.07 on the right side. The proposed segmentation model has the potential to offer a more detailed spinal cord segmentation and would be beneficial for quantifying a more detailed status of the cervical spinal cord.

Postoperative 30-Day Comparative Complications of Multilevel Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion and Laminoplasty for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: An Evidence in Reaching Consensus.

Although a few large-scale studies have investigated multilevel anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and laminoplasty (LAMP) and their related complications for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), the optimal surgical intervention remains controversial. Therefore, we compared their 30 days of postoperative complications. Through the 2010-2019 ACS NSQIP Participant Use Data Files, we estimated the risk of serious morbidity, reoperation, readmission, mortality, and other postoperative complications. Initially, propensity score matching (PSM) of the preoperative characteristics of both groups was performed for further analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis provided OR and 95% CI for comparative complications. After PSM, 621 pairs of cohorts were generated for both groups. Increased frequency of postoperative complications was observed in the LAMP group, especially for surgical wound infection, no matter whether superficial (ACDF/LAMP = 0%/1.13%, p = 0.0154) or deep wound infection (ACDF/LAMP = 0%/0.97%, p = 0.0309). The mean length of total hospital stays (ACDF/LAMP = 2.25/3.11, p < 0.0001) and days from operation to discharge (ACDF/LAMP = 2.12/3.08, p < 0.0001) were longer, while the hospitalization rate for over 30 days (ACDF/LAMP = 4.67%/7.41%, p = 0.0429) and unplanned reoperation (ACDF/LAMP = 6.12%/9.34%, p = 0.0336) were higher in LAMP. Results also indicated congestive heart failure as a risk factor (adjusted OR = 123.402, p = 0.0002). Conclusively, multilevel ACDF may be a safer surgical approach than LAMP for CSM in terms of perioperative morbidities, including surgical wound infection, prolonged hospitalization, and unplanned reoperation. However, these approaches showed no significant differences in systemic complications and perioperative mortality.

Clinical and Research MRI Techniques for Assessing Spinal Cord Integrity in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy-A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND: Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) manifests as the primary cause of spinal cord dysfunction and is non-traumatic, chronic and progressive in nature. Decompressive surgery is typically utilised to halt further disability and neurological dysfunction. The limitations of current diagnostic options surrounding assessment and prognostic potential render DCM still largely a clinical diagnosis. AIMS: To outline the limitations of current diagnostic techniques, present evidence behind novel quantitative MRI (qMRI) techniques for assessing spinal cord integrity in DCM and suggest future directions. METHOD: Articles published up to November 2021 were retrieved from Medline, EMBASE and EBM using key search terms: spinal cord, spine, neck, MRI, magnetic resonance imaging, qMRI, T1, T2, T2*, R2*, DTI, diffusion tensor imaging, MT, magnetisation transfer, SWI, susceptibility weighted imaging, BOLD, blood oxygen level dependent, fMRI, functional magnetic resonance imaging, functional MRI, MRS, magnetic resonance spectroscopy. RESULTS: A total of 2057 articles were retrieved with 68 articles included for analysis. The search yielded 2 articles on Quantitative T1 mapping which suggested higher T1 values in spinal cord of moderate-severe DCM; 43 articles on DTI which indicated a strong correlation of fractional anisotropy and modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores; 15 articles on fMRI (BOLD) which demonstrated positive correlation of functional connectivity and volume of activation of various connections in the brain with post-surgical recovery; 6 articles on MRS which suggested that Choline/N-acetylaspartate (Cho/NAA) ratio presents the best correlation with DCM severity; and 4 articles on MT which revealed a preliminary negative correlation of magnetisation transfer ratio with DCM severity. Notably, most studies were of low sample size with short timeframes within 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Further longitudinal studies with higher sample sizes and longer time horizons are necessary to determine the full prognostic capacity of qMRI in DCM.

Effect of cervical alignment change after anterior cervical fusion on radiological adjacent segment pathology.

Background: Adjacent segment pathology (ASP) is one of the primary complications affecting the long-term efficacy of anterior cervical fusion (ACF). At present, the cause and mechanism of adjacent segmental lesions are still controversial. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis on 88 patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) who had been followed up for at least 1 year after ACF. The patients were divided into radiological adjacent segment pathology (RASP) and non-RASP groups according to the presence of postoperative RASP. On the lateral radiographs of the cervical spine of all patients taken before and after surgery at the short-term and final follow-ups, the following parameters were measured: C2-7 Cobb angle of the cervical vertebrae; Cobb angle of the operated segments; and the anterior and posterior height of the fused segments [i.e., the anterior fusion segment height (AFH) and the posterior fusion segment height (PFH)]. The intra- and inter-group differences of the patients before and after surgery were calculated, as well as correlation of ACF with the occurrence of RASP. Results: There were 42 cases in the RASP group and 46 cases in the non-RASP group. In the RASP group, the C2-7 Cobb angle was significantly reduced in the short term after surgery (20.42±9.92° vs. 13.81±8.52°, P<0.01), while in non-RASP group the C2-7 Cobb angle was significantly increased in the short term after surgery (12.65±11.91° vs. 15.35±10.05°, P<0.05). The heights of both the anterior and posterior fused segments in the 2 groups were significantly higher after surgery, and they were significantly lower at the final follow-up than at the short-term follow-up. Post-operative AFH change was significantly correlated with C2-7 Cobb angle (r=0.274, P=0.010) and fused segment Cobb angle change (r=0.333, P=0.002). However, Cox regression analysis showed that only the postoperative C2-7 Cobb angle change was associated with RASP, with a hazard ratio of 0.336. Conclusions: Decreased cervical lordosis after ACF may be related to postoperative RASP. Maintaining good cervical curvature after surgery may reduce the incidence of RASP after ACF.