Cervical anterior arthrodesis: autologous or synthetic graft? / Artrodese cervical via anterior: enxerto autólogo ou sintético? / Artrodesis cervical anterior: ¿injerto autologo o sintético?

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare patients who underwent anterior cervical arthrodesis with autologous iliac crest graft and those who used synthetic graft. Methods: Analysis of 38 patients aged between 18 and 100 years with anterior cervical spondylosis of 1 or 2 levels in a spine surgery service. Results: degenerative cervical spine changes associated with cervicalgia and cervicobrachialgia. Excluded: previous cervical spine surgeries, fractures, or surgery above two levels. Two groups were formed with 19 patients, one using autologous graft and the other using synthetic tricalcium phosphate - a questionnaire assessed satisfaction (Oswestry and VAS) pre- and postoperatively. Bone consolidation was evaluated by tomography at nine months. Results: Mean ODI (Group 1) was 68.5% ± 4.6% preoperatively and 27.2% ± 3.8% postoperatively, being statistically relevant (p<0.001). VAS performed to evaluate the cervical region, Group 1 pre and post-op was considered statistically relevant (p<0.001). No significant difference was observed when comparing the mean values found in the postoperative period between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.463). Only two patients complained of chronic pain, representing 10% of the total. In nine-month tomography, 100% of patients in Group 1 and 100% of Group 2 showed bone consolidation, with no statistically relevant difference (p=0.676) between the groups. Conclusion: Similar functional and osteointegration outcomes were observed in both types of grafts. Synthetic graft minimizes the risks and complications of using allografts. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective comparative study.

Resumo: Objetivo: Comparar os pacientes que realizaram artrodese cervical anterior associada ao uso de enxerto autólogo de crista ilíaca e os que utilizaram enxerto sintético. Métodos: Análise de 38 pacientes entre 18 e 100 anos com espondilose cervical anterior de nível 1 ou 2 em um serviço de cirurgia da coluna. Inclusão: alterações degenerativas da coluna cervical, associado a cervicalgia e/ou cervicobraquialgia. Excluídos: cirurgias de coluna cervical prévia, fraturas ou cirurgia acima de 2 níveis. Foram formados 2 grupos com 19 pacientes cada, sendo num deles utilizado enxerto autólogo e, no outro, sintético fosfato tricálcico. Foi aplicado o questionário para avaliação de satisfação (Oswestry e EVA) pré e pós-operatória. Consolidação óssea foi avaliada por tomografia no nono mês. Resultados: O ODI médio do Grupo 1 apresentou 68,5% ± 4,6% na avaliação pré-operatória e 27,2%±3,8% no pós, sendo estatisticamente relevante (p<0,001). EVA realizada para avaliar a região cervical, o Grupo 1 no pré e pós foi considerada estatisticamente relevante (p<0,001). Não foi observada diferença relevante quando comparando os valores médios encontrados no pós-operatório entre o Grupo 1 e o Grupo 2 (p=0,463). Apenas 2 pacientes com queixa de dor crônica, representando 10% do total. Tomografia de 9 meses, 100% dos pacientes do Grupo 1 e 100% do Grupo 2 apresentaram consolidação óssea, não tendo diferença estatisticamente relevante (p=0,676) entre os grupos. Conclusão: Foram observados resultados funcionais e de osteointegração similares em ambos enxertos. O enxerto sintético minimiza riscos e complicações do uso de aloenxertos. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Retrospectivo Comparativo

Resumen: Objetivo: Comparar los pacientes sometidos a artrodesis cervical anterior asociada al uso de un injerto autólogo de cresta ilíaca y los que utilizaron un injerto sintético. Métodos: Se analizaron 38 pacientes de entre 18 y 100 años con espondilosis cervical anterior de nivel 1 o 2 en un servicio de cirugía de la columna vertebral. Criterios de inclusión: cambios degenerativos en la columna cervical, asociados a cervicalgia y/o cervicobraquialgia. Excluidos: cirugía previa de la columna cervical, fracturas o cirugía por encima de 2 niveles. Se formaron dos grupos de 19 pacientes cada uno, en uno se utilizó un injerto autólogo y en el otro un injerto sintético de fosfato tricálcico. Se utilizó un cuestionario de satisfacción pre y postoperatorio (Oswestry y EVA). La consolidación ósea se evaluó mediante tomografía computarizada al noveno mes. Resultados: La media del ODI del Grupo 1 fue del 68,5% ± 4,6% en la valoración preoperatoria y del 27,2%±3,8% en la valoración postoperatoria, siendo estadísticamente relevante (p<0,001). La EVA realizada para valorar la región cervical en el Grupo 1 pre y post se consideró estadísticamente significativa (p<0,001). No se observaron diferencias relevantes al comparar los valores medios encontrados en el postoperatorio entre el Grupo 1 y el Grupo 2 (p=0,463). Sólo 2 pacientes se quejaron de dolor crónico, lo que representa el 10% del total. A los 9 meses, el 100% de los pacientes del Grupo 1 y el 100% del Grupo 2 presentaban cicatrización ósea, sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p=0,676) entre los grupos. Conclusión: Se observaron resultados funcionales y de osteointegración similares con ambos injertos. El injerto sintético minimiza los riesgos y complicaciones del uso de aloinjertos. Nivel de Evidencia III; Estudio Retrospectivo Comparativo.

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.

Blood Loss Control in Patients with Idiopathic Scoliosis Undergoing Spinal Fusion: Prospective Evaluation of a Cohort / Controle de sangramento em pacientes com escoliose idiopática submetidos a artrodese da coluna: Avaliação prospectiva de uma coorte de pacientes

Abstract Objective This study aimed to identify risk factors for increased perioperative bleeding in scoliosis surgery. Methods This is a prospective cohort study including 30 patients with idiopathic scoliosis undergoing posterior instrumentation using the pedicle screw system at a university hospital. Results Intraoperative blood losses totaled 798.6 ± 340 mL (24.8% of blood volume). Nine subjects presented massive blood loss. On average, hemoglobin dropped by 3.7g/dL, and each patient received 1.4 blood bags. Postoperative blood loss was 693.4±331.1 mL, and the total number of days using a drain was 2.7±0.7. Intraoperatively, the following variables showed significant correlations (p<0.05) with increased bleeding: age, time from diagnosis to treatment, preoperative Cobb angle, amount of curve correction, number of instrumented and fixated levels, total number of screws, and the number of transfused bags. Postoperatively, the following variables had significant correlations (p < 0.05): age, preoperative Cobb angle, length of hospital stay, number of blood bags transfused, and number of levels fixated with screws. Conclusion The variables most contributing to blood loss were age, preoperative Cobb angle, number of blood bags transfused, and number of levels fixated with a screw. Therefore, patients may benefit from surgical treatment while younger and

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo é identificar os fatores de risco para o aumento de sangramento perioperatório em cirurgias para tratamento de escoliose. Métodos Estudo de coorte prospectivo incluindo 30 pacientes com escoliose idiopática submetidos à instrumentação posterior com o uso do sistema de parafusos pediculares em um hospital universitário. Resultados As perdas sanguíneas intraoperatórias totalizaram 798,6 ml ±340 ml (24,8% do volume sanguíneo). Houve perda maciça de sangue em 9 pacientes. Em média, a hemoglobina caiu 3,7 g/dl e foram transfundidas 1,4 bolsas de sangue por paciente. A perda sanguínea pós-operatória foi de 693,4 ml ± 331,1ml, e o total de dias utilizando dreno foi 2,7 ± 0,7. No intraoperatório, as seguintes variáveis apresentaram correlações significativas (p < 0,05) com o aumento do sangramento: idade, intervalo entre diagnóstico e tratamento, Cobb pré-operatório, quantidade de correção da curva, número de níveis instrumentados e fixados, número total de parafusos e o número de bolsas transfundidas. No pós-operatório, as seguintes variáveis apresentaram relação (p<0,05): idade, Cobb pré-operatório, tempo de internação, quantidade de bolsas de sangue transfundidas e o número de níveis fixados com parafuso. Conclusão As variáveis que mais contribuíram para a perda sanguínea foram idade, Cobb pré-operatório, quantidade de bolsas de sangue transfundidas e número de níveis fixados com parafuso. Portanto, os pacientes podem se beneficiar do tratamento cirúrgico

Efficacy analysis of autologous facet joint bone block in lumbar interbody fusion of osteoporosis patients / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To compare and analyze the feasibility of autologous facet joint bone block as an alternative to polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage in lumbar intervertebral fusion surgery for patients with osteoporosis.@*METHODS@#From December 2018 to June 2021, the case data of patients with osteoporosis (T value ≤ -2.5 on dual energy X-ray bone density) who underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion in the Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. All the cases were followed up for no less than 12 months and were divided into two groups according to the differences of interbody fusion materials: the autologous facet joint bone block group (autogenous bone group) and the PEEK cage group (PEEK group). The general data [such as age, gender, body mass index (BMI), primary diagnosis, distribution of fusion segments, bone mineral density of lumbar (BMD), incidence of preoperative complications], the perioperative data (such as duration of operation, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage, perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion rate), and the incidence of postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Imaging parameters (disc height, lumbar lordosis angle, segment lordosis angle, segmental lordosis angle, disc height improvement rate, and fusion rate) and lumbar functional scores [visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), Japanese Orthopedics Association (JOA) score for lower back pain] were compared to evaluate the clinical efficacy between the kinds of intervertebral fusion materials 1 week, 3 months and 6 months postoperative and at the last follow-up.@*RESULTS@#A total of 118 patients were enrolled, including 68 cases in the autogenous bone group and 50 cases in the PEEK group, there were no statistical differences in age, gender, BMI, primary diagnosis, distribution of fusion segments, BMD, incidence of preoperative complications, duration of operation, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage, perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion rate, incidence of postoperative complications, all the preoperative imaging parameters and all the lumbar function scores between the two groups (P>0.05). Postoperative superficial surgical site infections occurred in 3 patients in the autogenous bone group and 2 patients in the PEEK group. At the last follow-up, 3 cases of intervertebral graft collapse occurred in the autogenous bone group and 5 cases in the PEEK group, 1 case of graft subsidence in the autogenous bone group and 1 case in the PEEK group. All the imaging parameters showed significant differences between postoperation and preoperation (P < 0.05), and all the imaging parameters showed significant differences between 1 week and 3 months postoperative in both groups (P < 0.05). The height, angle of fusion gap in the autogenous bone group were lower than those in the PEEK group 1 week postoperatively (P < 0.05), and the fusion gap height improvement rate in the autogenous bone group was lower than that in the PEEK group (P < 0.05). The cases in both groups started to show final fusion 3 months after surgery, and the fusion rate in the autogenous bone group was 75% 6 months postoperatively, which was significantly higher than the rate of 56% in the PEEK group (P < 0.05), and there was no statistically significant difference in the final fusion rate between the two groups (P>0.05). The ODI, the postoperative VAS score was significantly lower than that in preoperation, while the postoperative JOA score was significantly higher than that in preoperation (P < 0.05). The ODI was lower while the JOA score was higher of the autogenous bone group than that of the PEEK group 6 months postoperatively (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#In osteoporosis patients, good interbody fusion rate and improvement of lumbar vertebral function can be obtained by using autologous facet joint bone block or PEEK cage, while the fusion rate and the improvement of lumbar function with autologous facet joint bone block are better than those with PEEK cage 6 months post-operatively. PEEK cage is superior to autologous facet joint bone block in intervertebral distraction and improvement of lumbar lordosis. Significant disc space subsidence occurred in osteoporotic patients within 3 months after lumbar interbody fusion, and the subsidence of PEEK cage was more obvious than that of autologous facet joint bone block.

Analgesic effect of buccal acupuncture on patients after lumbar spinal fusion: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the effect of buccal acupuncture on pain after lumbar spinal fusion.@*METHODS@#Sixty patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion were randomly divided into an observation group (30 cases, 1 case dropped off) and a control group (30 cases, 1 case was eliminated). The patients in the control group were treated with routine anesthesia. On the basis of the control group, the patients in the observation group were treated with buccal acupuncture at bilateral back point, waist point, and sacral point for 30 min per treatment. The first acupuncture was given before anesthesia induction, and then once a day postoperation for two days, totally 3 treatments. The dosage of sufentanil, the number of remedial analgesia, and the incidence of nausea and vomiting within 48 h after surgery were compared between the two groups; rest and motion visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 2 (T1), 8 (T2), 12 (T3), 24 (T4), and 48 (T5) h after surgery were observed; the quality of recovery-15 scale (QoR-15) at 24 and 48 h after surgery were evaluated.@*RESULTS@#The dosage of sufentanil and the number of remedial analgesia within 48 h after surgery in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.01). There was no significant statistically difference in rest and motion VAS scores between the two groups in T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 (P>0.05). The QoR-15 scores in the observation group at 24 and 48 h after surgery were higher than those in the control group (P<0.01). The incidence of nausea in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Buccal acupuncture could reduce the amount of postoperative analgesic drugs of patients after lumbar spinal fusion, and promote early postoperative recovery.

The effect of reduction and in situ fusion on postoperative imaging parameters of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To compare the efficacy of reduction and in situ intervertebral fusion fixation in the treatment of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis.Methods:A total of 182 patients (92 males and 90 females) with L 4 degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis of Meyerding's classification of grade I and grade II, aged (62.6±6.8) years (range, 57-73 years), who underwent posterior L 4, 5 internal fixation and interbody fusion in the Department of Spinal Surgery, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, were retrospectively analyzed from January 2019 to December 2022. There were 105 cases of I-degree spondylolisthesis and 77 cases of II-degree spondylolisthesis. According to the operation method, the patients were divided into reduction intervertebral fusion fixation (reduction group) and in situ intervertebral fusion fixation group (in situ group). Imaging parameters such as lumber lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI)-LL, L 3, 4 intervertebral space heights, fusion segment angle, and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) were measured on the pre- and post-surgical lumbar spine lateral radiographs. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) of low back pain were recorded before and after surgery. The differences in clinical and imaging parameters were compared between reduction and in situ fusion group. Results:All 182 patients successfully completed the surgery and were followed up for 12.0±2.4 months (range, 9-15 months). The LL of the reduction group before surgery, immediately after surgery, and at the last follow-up were 46.9°±7.1°, 57.2°±5.9°, 55.6°±5.5°, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=87.61, P<0.001), with immediate and final follow-up being smaller than those in the in situ fixation group. The LL of the in situ fixation group before surgery, immediately after surgery, and at the last follow-up were 47.8°±7.2°, 50.5°±7.0°, and 48.7°± 6.4°, respectively, with no statistically significant difference ( F=2.83, P=0.062). The immediate and final follow-up of LL in the reduction group was lower than those in the in situ fixation group ( P<0.05). The fusion segment angles of the reduction group before surgery, immediately after surgery, and at the last follow-up were 14.2°±5.1°, 23.2°±4.7°, 23.2°±4.7°, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=152.87, P<0.001), with immediate and final follow-up after surgery being greater than before surgery. The fusion segment angles of the in situ fixation group before surgery, immediately after surgery, and at the last follow-up were 15.4°±5.9°, 18.2°±5.5°, and 17.4°±5.1°, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=4.69, P=0.009), with immediate and final follow-up being greater than before surgery. The fusion segment angulation in the reduction group was greater than that in the in situ fixation group at both the immediate and final follow-up ( P<0.05). The SVA of the reduction group before surgery, immediately after surgery, and at the last follow-up were 16.9±18.2 mm, 9.5±12.0 mm, and 8.7±11.3 mm, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=11.32, P<0.001), with immediate and final follow-up being smaller than before surgery. The SVA of immediately after surgery and at the last follow-up were both smaller than before surgery. The SVA of the in situ fixation group before surgery, immediately after surgery, and at the last follow-up were 16.4±17.2 mm, 14.3±15.5 mm, and 13.8±15.0 mm, respectively, with no statistically significant difference ( F=0.57, P=0.576). The SVA of the reduction group at immediate and final follow-up was lower than that of the in situ fixation group ( P<0.05). Conclusion:Both reduction and in situ intervertebral fusion fixation can effectively relieve the clinical symptoms of patients. Fusion fixation after reduction can improve the angulation of fusion segments to form segmental kyphosis, which is more conducive to improving SVA.

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion for severe lumbar spinal stenosis: a randomized controlled trial with 1-year follow-up / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical outcomes of minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) and the necessity to perform LLIF plus posterior direct decompression in the treatment of severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS).Methods:In this prospective randomized, controlled trial, we assigned 71 patients, who were 50 to 80 years old, and diagnosed with severe DLSS (Schizas Classification grade C on magnetic resonance imaging), in a 1∶1 ratio to undergo either one-stage LLIF plus posterior internal fixation (treatment group) or CLIF plus posterior internal fixation with laminectomy (control group). Demographic and perioperative data were collected and compared. The clinical outcome measures included Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ) score as well as visual analogue scale (VAS). Patients were followed up for at least 1 year.Results:The treatment group included 36 patients with 46 surgical levels, while the control group included 35 patients with 46 surgical levels. The baseline demographic data of the 2 groups were equivalent in preoperative central canal areas, spinal canal anteroposterior diameter, disc height, ODI, ZCQ score for symptom severity and physical function, as well as VAS scores for back and leg pain. The mean operative time, blood loss, drainage volume and hospital stay of the treatment group are significantly less than the control group (157.2±29.1 min vs. 180.6±26.8 min, 75.6±39.1 ml vs. 108.6±43.3 ml, 136.9±73.9 ml vs. 220.5±121.3 ml, 5.3±1.1 d vs. 6.6±2.3 d). There were 2 cases with dura tear and 1 case with wound infection in control group. Thus, the surgical trauma and complications of the control group were more than the treatment group. At 1-year follow-up, the mean ODI score of treatment group improved from 42.24%±10.70% preoperatively to 18.21%±11.49%, the mean ZCQ symptom severity from 2.89±0.38 to 1.61±0.41, the mean ZCQ physical function from 2.31±0.45 to 1.50±0.37, the mean VAS for back from 5.56±1.19 to 1.97±1.13 and the mean VAS for leg from 4.44±1.81 to 0.94±1.26. At 1-year follow-up, the mean ODI score of the control group improved from 43.65%±14.93% preoperatively to 17.36%±12.15%, the mean ZCQ symptom severity from 2.92±0.52 to 1.65±0.39, the mean ZCQ physical function from 2.37±0.52 to 1.55±0.39, the mean VAS for back from 5.63±1.40 to 2.34±1.47, and the mean VAS for leg from 4.37±2.14 to 0.83±1.20. The ZCQ satisfactory score of both groups were not significant different (1.25±0.45 vs. 1.26±0.43, t=0.07, P=0.944). The mean improvement rate of both groups for ODI, ZCQ symptom severity, ZCQ physical function, VAS back and VAS leg at 1-year follow-up were not significant different (55.43%±27.74% vs. 58.36%±25.06%, 43.07%±17.22% vs. 42.66%±12.95%, 32.25%±23.65% vs. 31.71%±23.24%, 62.65%±21.25% vs. 58.37%±22.44%, 78.94%±26.41% vs. 85.45%±20.53%). One adjacent segment disease was found in each group at 1 year follow-up. Conclusion:CLIF+ posterior internal fixation in the treatment of Schizas Grade C DLSS has satisfactory clinical outcome at 1-year follow-up. Laminectomy increases surgical trauma, but does not significantly improve the clinical outcome at 1-year follow-up.

Oblique lumbar interbody fusion combined with percutaneous endoscopic decompression and posterior fixation for the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis accompanied with lumbar spinal stenosis / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) combined with percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic decompression (PTED) and posterior pedicle fixation through Wiltse approach in the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis accompanied with lumbar spinal stenosis.Methods:From June 2017 to February 2022, 103 patients (50 males and 53 females) of lumbar spondylolisthesis accompanied with lumbar spinal stenosis were performed with OLIF combined with PTED and posterior pedicle fixation. The mean age was 64.1±5.2 years (range, 42-87 years). All involved cases were single-segment and included 83 cases of L 4, 5, 17 cases of L 3, 4, and 3 cases of L 2, 3. Among them, 94 cases were performed for the first time, and other 9 were revision surgery treated by posterior lumbar laminectomy previously. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the low back pain and leg pain, and the Oswestry disability index (ODI) was used to evaluate the lumbar function. The VAS and ODI scores were recorded respectively before the operation, at discharge, 1, 3, 6 months after the operation and at the last follow-up. Macnab criteria was used to evaluate the clinical efficacy at the last follow-up. At the same time, imaging measurements were conducted, including the anterior and posterior disc height, segmental lordotic angle, percentage of slip on lateral X-ray film and the vertebral canal area on axial MRI before and after surgery. Results:All of 103 patients were successfully operated in one stage with an average operation time of 177.7±21.5 min (range, 155-220 min), and an average intraoperative blood loss of 55.9±18.3 ml (range, 30-150 ml). The mean follow-up time were 15.1±2.6 months (range, 6-36 months). There were significant differences in both VAS scores of back and leg and ODI scores at each postoperative time point when compared with preoperative ( F=508.25, F=1524.82, F=1148.68, P<0.001). Macnab criteria of the last follow-up was evaluated as follow: excellent in 85 cases, good in 14, fair in 4, and the excellent and good rate was 96.1%. The radiographic results showed the mean immediate postoperative anterior disc height, posterior disc height, segmental lordotic angle, percentage of slip and axial area of the vertebral canal were 15.23±2.97 mm, 9.32±2.31 mm, 14.36°±4.18°, 3.89%±3.11%, 113.37±47.27 mm 2, and thus all of those increased significantly compared to the mean preoperative 11.93±3.17 mm, 7.21±2.03 mm, 6.15°±3.99°, 23.66%±7.79%, 57.63±28.91 mm 2, respectively ( t=7.84, t=7.07, t=14.91, t=27.62, t=9.68, P<0.001). All cases achieved bony fusion during 6-12 months after operation. The incidence of surgery-related complications was 10.7% (11/103). There were 3 cases of end plate fracture and 2 cases of dural injury, which had no complaint after operation. There was 1 case of pedicle screw entering into the spinal canal by mistake, and the symptoms of nerve damage appeared after operation. After 1 year it basically returned to normal. There were 2 cases of thigh numbness and 1 case of psoas major weakness after operation, all of which relieved after 4 weeks. There was 1 case continuous pain of abdominal incision after surgery. There was 1 case of cage subsidence at the last follow-up. Conclusion:OLIF combined with PTED and posterior pedicle fixation through Wiltse approach is a minimally invasive surgical method for the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis accompanied with lumbar spinal stenosis. With the combined minimally invasive techniques, the decompression, fusion and fixation of the lumbar spine can be fulfilled perfectly. It has the advantages of minimally invasive, good clical outcome, few complications and rapid rehabilitation.

Diagnosis and treatment of atlantoaxial dislocation / 中华骨科杂志

Atlantoaxial dislocation is a pathological anatomical condition caused by the loss of stability between the atlantoaxial joints, which is a serious disabling disease in spine surgery, and may even endanger the patient's life. The causes of atlantoaxial dislocation include traumatic, congenital, inflammatory, degenerative, tumor, and other factors. Since the symptoms and signs are not specific in clinic, imaging examination is particularly important. Atlantoaxial dislocation is mainly classified according to the etiology, the relative position of atlas and axis, and the difficulty of reduction. Accurate classification is of great significance for the selection of treatment options. There is no popular guideline for surgical indications of atlantoaxial dislocation. Patients presenting with related symptoms or spinal cord dysfunction are generally recognized surgical indications in clinical practice. With the continuous improvement and optimization of atlantoaxial screw placement, reduction and fusion technology, supplemented by new equipment in spine surgery, the surgery-related risks and complications have been greatly reduced, and the surgical treatment of atlantoaxial dislocation can obtain good reduction and fusion results. This tutorial summariz the etiology, diagnosis, classification, treatment, complications, and prognosis of atlantoaxial dislocation, in order to provide a more complete and refined reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Postoperative bracing on clinical outcomes following posterior lumbar fusion for degenerative lumbar diseases: a meta-analysis / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To systematically evaluate whether the early use of bracing after posterior lumbar fusion has advantages in terms of the improvement of clinical outcomes such as pain, functional disability, fusion rate, and complication rate in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases.Methods:All randomized controlled trials of bracing performed after posterior lumbar fusion in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases were searched in Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang database from January 1990 to May 2022. The data extracted were authors, year of publication, nationality, subject characteristics, sample size, surgical protocol, type and time of bracing, follow-up duration, preoperative and postoperative Oswestry disability index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS), postoperative fusion rate and complication rate. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. The use of fix- or random-effect models was depended on the magnitude of heterogeneity. Data analysis was performed using Stata 17.0 statistical software for meta analysis.Results:A total of five randomized controlled trials were included, all in English, with a total of 362 patients (male 144, female 218). The results of meta-analysis showed that there was no statistically significant difference in the improvement of ODI scores [ MD=1.25, 95% CI(-2.39, 4.88), P=0.501]and VAS scores[ MD=0.21, 95% CI(-0.22, 0.63), P=0.340]between the brace group and the control group after operation. In terms of fusion rate, there was no significant difference between the brace group and the control group[ OR=0.59, 95% CI(0.25, 1.38), P=0.224]. In addition, there was also no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative complications between two groups[ OR=1.12, 95% CI(0.58, 2.15), P=0.735]. Conclusion:The early use of bracing after lumbar fusion has no significant advantages in improving symptoms and functional recovery, fusion rate and surgical complications. The necessity of postoperative bracing after posterior lumbar fusion requires further high-quality research to prove.

The clinical characteristics and treatment of "sandwich" atlantoaxial dislocation / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the specialty of the clinical features, treatment procedure, clinical outcome, and prognosis in the patients with "sandwich" atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD).Methods:From 2008 to 2018, 160 cases with "sandwich" AAD were retrospectively selected from the case series of AAD in Peking University Third Hospital. The case series had 80 males and 80 females. The mean age at the initial visit was 35.5±14.6 years (range, 5-77). The clinical courses, treatment methodology and prognosis were reviewed. And the surgical approach, posterior fixation segment and the recovery of neurological function were mainly summarized. The atlantodental interval (ADI), the distance by which the odontoid exceeded the Chamberlain line and the cervical-medullary angle were analyzed.Results:The most common symptoms included weakness or numbness of the limbs (67.5%, 108/160), unstable gait (30%, 48/160) and vertigo (20%, 32/160). Among all, 130 cases (81.3%, 130/160) had myelopathy, with the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores from 4 to 16 (mean JOA scores 13.5±2.5). Cranial neuropathy was involved in 20 cases (12.5%). Radiological findings showed brainstem and/or cervical-medullar in 130 cases (81.3%), syringomyelia in 37 cases (23.1%) and Chiari malformation in 30 cases (18.8%). Computed tomography angiography (CTA) was performed in 90 cases, which showed vertebral artery anomalies in 55 cases (61.0%) and excessive medialized internal carotid artery in 5 cases (5.6%). All cases had no spinal cord or vertebral artery injury. The surgery included posterior occipito-cervical fusion (reducible dislocation, 145 cases), and transoral release followed by posterior fusion (irreducible dislocation, 15 cases). Fifty-seven cases were treated using alternative fixation technique. The average follow-up time was 50.5±22.4 months (range, 24 to 120 months). All of 152 cases (95.0%) achieved solid atlantoaxial fusion; there was no obvious osseous fusion formation on postoperative images in 6 cases (3.8%), but no atlantoaxial instability was found on dynamic radiographs; screw loosening happened in 2 patients (1.2%). Nine patients (5.6%) suffered complications, including 4 cases with recurrent dislocation, 2 screw loosening, 2 cases with bulbar paralysis and 1 wound infection. The mean postoperative JOA was 15.1±1.8 (range, 5-17), and the mean neurological improvement rate was 42.9%±33.3% in the patients with myelopathy.Conclusion:"Sandwich" AAD, a subgroup of AAD, has unique clinical features: earlier onset age and more severe myelopathy. The incidence of bone and vascular malformation is higher. So alternative surgical plan and hybrid fixation should be prepared for this subgroup of AAD.

An analysis on the optimal match between thoracolumbar kyphosis and lower lumbar lordosis in adult spinal deformity after long-fusion surgery / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the optimal match degree between thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK) and lower lumbar lordosis (LLL) in adult spinal deformity (ASD) after correction surgery.Methods:Data of 119 ASD patients (male: 28, female: 91), belonging to the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University (19 cases), the Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (11 cases), and the First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital (89 cases) were reviewed and documented from March 2019 to March 2020. All patients (age, 64.48±8.88 years; range, 45-79 years) underwent the surgical procedure of thoracolumbar fusion with instrumentations were followed up over 24 months (51.68±15.60 months; range, 24-87 months) after surgery. Postoperative proximal interface failure, Oswestry disability index (ODI) score and Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) score were recorded for all patients. The immediate match of TLK to LLL postoperatively was calculated as follows: TLM=TLK/LLL. The data of those individuals with excellent improvements in the ODI (>50%) at the final follow-up were recorded and analyzed. Then the mean value and the 95% CI of TLM in those individuals were calculated. All participants were subdivided into three groups according to the 95% CI value of TLM. After the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analyzing, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was the best cutoff value of TLM. The association of proximal junctional failure (PJF) developing with the abnormal TLM postoperatively was analyzed with logistic regression, and the odds ratio (OR) was calculated. Results:62 patients had significant improvements in ODI (>50%) at the final follow-up, and the mean TLM in those individuals was 0.41 [95% CI (0.2, 0.5)]. All patients were divided into three groups: TLM<0.2 (35 cases), 0.2≤TLM≤0.5 (48 cases) and TLM>0.5 (36 cases). The preoperative TLK (13.87°±16.61°) and T 1 pelvic angle (19.69°±10.55°) in the those patients with TLM<0.2 were the smallest, and those were the largest in those with TLM>0.5 (30.59°±16.68°, 28.30°±14.46°). The individuals with TLM<0.2 still had the smallest TLK (2.89°±1.78°), however, those with TLM>0.5 had the largest TLK (17.13°±12.13°) and the smallest LLL (-26.16°±11.02°) accordingly. Additionally, the ODI and SRS-22 for those with 0.2≤TLM≤0.5 at the final follow-up were the best ( P<0.05). ROC curve analysis results showed that the best cutoff value of TLM was 0.4 (sensitivity=78.9%, specificity=76.2%; AUC=0.802, 95% CI (0.708, 0.896) , P<0.001). During the follow-up after orthopedic surgery, there were 19 patients with postoperative proximal junction failure, including 16 patients in the mismatched group (6 patients in the TLM<0.2 group, 10 patients in the TLM>0.5 group) and 3 patients in the matched group (0.2≤TLM≤0.5 group), with the incidence of 23% (16/71) and 6% (3/48), respectively. The difference was statistically significant (χ 2=5.66, P=0.017). Thoracolumbar mismatch was significantly associated with proximal borderline failure after orthosis [ OR=4.35, 95% CI (1.196, 15.924)]. Conclusion:The abnormal correction in thoracolumbar kyphosis and lower lumbar lordosis may result in mismatch between thoracolumbar segments, which would undermine the quality of life, and increase the incidence of proximal junctional failure developing in those ASD patients underwent long-fusion surgeries. The match between TLK and LLL should be 0.2 to 0.5.

Posterior reduction for treatment of acute severe traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the clinical effects of posterior reduction in the treatment of acute severe traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 12 patients with acute severe traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis who had been treated by posterior reduction at Department of Spinal Surgery, Zhengzhou Orthopaedic Hospital from June 2010 to December 2018. There were 7 males and 5 females with an age of (25.7±1.8) years. The spondylolisthesis was at L4 in 4 cases and at L5 in 8 cases, and grade Ⅲ in 7 cases, grade Ⅳ in 4 cases and grade Ⅴ in 1 case according to the Meyerding classification. By the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grading, the preoperative neurological function was at level B in 6 cases, at level C in 4 cases, and at level D in 2 cases. All the 12 patients underwent posterior reduction and internal fixation with pedicle screws, as well as intervertebral bone graft fusion. Operation time and intraoperative blood loss were recorded. Clinical efficacy was evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) before and after surgery, and neurological function was evaluated by ASIA grading. X-ray, CT plain scan and reconstruction were used to observe internal fixation and bone grafting.Results:All patients were followed up for (18.5±2.1) months. The operation time was (165.7±42.3) min and the blood loss (497.7±75.3) mL. The VAS pain scores [(2.7±0.3) points and (1.8±0.2) points] and ODIs (18.2%±2.3% and 14.5%±2.6%) at 2 weeks after operation and at the last follow-up were significantly lower than the preoperational values [(8.5±0.6) points and 72.3%±12.3%] ( P<0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference between 2 weeks after operation and the last follow-up ( P>0.05). At the last follow-up, X-rays and CT scans showed good fixation and adequate bone grafting; the spondylolisthesis was grade 0 in 10 cases and grade I in 2 cases; the ASIA level of neurological function was C in 2 cases, D in 3 cases, and E in 7 cases. Healing of surgical incision was delayed in 2 patients but responded to symptomatic treatment. Follow-ups observed no such complications as loosening or pulling out of internal fixation. Conclusion:In the treatment of acute severe traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis, posterior reduction can effectively restore the spondylolisthesis sequence and restore spinal stability, leading to satisfactory curative outcomes.

Risk factors for adjacent vertebral compression fracture after fusion surgery of lumbar canal stenosis in the elderly / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To evaluate the risk factors for adjacent vertebral compression fracture (AVCF) after fusion surgery of lumbar canal stenosis in the elderly.Methods:A retrospective cohort study was designed for 297 patients with lumbar canal stenosis who underwent fusion surgery in Hubei Provincial Hospital of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine from January 2017 to December 2020. There were 42 males and 255 females, aged 68-85 years [(76.3±7.2)years]. The patients were divided into AVCF group ( n=67) and non-AVCF group ( n=230) according to with or without the occurrence of AVCF. The indicators recorded were the gender, age, body mass index, education level, number of combined basic diseases, course of the disease, preoperative bone mineral density, intraoperative bleeding volume, number of level fused during operation, postoperative blood transfusion volume, postoperative observation in the ICU, types of postoperative external fixation and time of external fixation. Univariate analysis was conducted to analyze the correlation between above risk factors and AVCF after fusion surgery of lumbar canal stenosis in the elderly. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent risk factors for the occurrence of AVCF in these patients. Results:In the univariate analysis, age, education level, preoperative bone mineral density, intraoperative bleeding volume, postoperative blood transfusion volume and postoperative observation in the ICU were correlated with AVCF after fusion surgery of lumbar canal stenosis in the elderly ( P<0.05 or 0.01), while there was no correlation of AVCF with gender, body mass index, number of combined basic diseases, course of the disease, number of level fused during operation, types of postoperative external fixation and time of external fixation (all P>0.05). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that gender ( OR=4.02, 95% CI 1.35, 12.00, P<0.05), preoperative bone mineral density≤-2.5 SD ( OR=2.01, 95% CI 1.47, 2.75, P<0.01), intraoperative bleeding volume≥475 ml ( OR=1.01, 95% CI 1.00, 1.01, P<0.01) and postoperative blood transfusion volume≥434 ml ( OR=0.99, 95% CI 0.98, 1.00, P<0.01) were significantly associated with AVCF after fusion surgery of lumbar canal stenosis in the elderly. Conclusion:The female, bone mineral density≤-2.5 SD, intraoperative bleeding volume≥476 ml and postoperative blood transfusion volume≥434 ml are independent risk factors for AVCF after fusion surgery of lumbar canal stenosis in the elderly.

Clinical efficacy analysis of DELTA endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion for the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis / 中国医师杂志

Objective:To explore the clinical efficacy of DELTA endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion for the treatment of mild to moderate, single segment lumbar spondylolisthesis.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 48 surgical cases of grade Ⅰ to Ⅱ lumbar spondylolisthesis admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from February 2020 to March 2022. Among them, 24 cases treated with DELTA endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion surgery were classified as the DELTA group, and 24 cases treated with traditional minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) surgery were classified as the MIS-TLIF group. Two groups of patients were compared in terms of perioperative indicators (surgical time, postoperative drainage volume, incision length, hospital stay), clinical efficacy [Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score for low back and leg pain, lumbar Japanese Orthopaedic Association Scores (JOA), improved MacNab standard excellence rate], and lumbar fusion rate (Bridwell intervertebral fusion grade).Results:The DELTA group had longer surgical time than the MIS-TLIF group, and the postoperative drainage volume, incision length, and hospital stay were all lower than the MIS-TLIF group, with statistically significant differences (all P<0.05). The VAS score of lower back and leg pain and lumbar JOA score of the two groups of patients at 1 week, 3 months, and the last follow-up were significantly improved compared to those before surgery (all P<0.01), and the DELTA group had better VAS score of lower back and leg pain and lumbar JOA score at all time points after surgery than the MIS-TLIF group, with statistically significant differences (all P<0.05). The improved MacNab standard was used to evaluate the efficacy of the two groups of patients at the last follow-up after surgery, and there was no statistically significant difference in the excellent and good rates ( P>0.05); There was no statistically significant difference ( P>0.05) in the fusion rate between the two groups. Conclusions:DELTA endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion has a significant therapeutic effect on lumbar spondylolisthesis, with the advantages of small surgical incision and fast recovery; After crossing the DELTA endoscopic learning curve and optimizing surgical procedures, this technology can become an alternative to MIS-TLIF technology.

Analysis of 5 cases of Waveflex semi-rigid internal fixation in treatment of thoracolumbar fracture / 国际外科学杂志

Objective:To investigate various clinical treatment measures for thoracolumbar fractures and provide new diagnosis and treatment methods.Methods:The case data of 5 patients(3 males, 2 females, and the age ranged from 39 to 59 years with an average of 51 years) with thoracolumbar fractures were treated with Waveflex semi-rigid internaI fixation system from May 2020 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, imaging indexes and clinical effects were followed up, and analyzed and summarized in combination with relevant literatures.Results:The operations of all 5 patients were successfully completed, and the follow-up period was 6 months. At the last follow-up, the internal fixation position was good, the height of the injured vertebra was maintained satisfactorily, and the clinical effect was satisfactory.Conclusion:Waveflex semi-rigid internal fixation system combines the advantages of fusion and non-fusion, providing a new idea for the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures, but its long-term effect still needs further follow-up.

Transiliac endoscopic assisted ilif: a cadaveric study / Ilif assistida por endoscopia por via transilíaca: estudo em cadáver / Ilif asistida por endoscopia transilíaca: estudio en cadáver

ABSTRACT Objective: Demonstrate the feasibility of endoscopic assisted L5S1 intraforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (iLIF) through a transiliac approach. Methods: Ten transiliac iLIF and ten supra iliac iLIF were performed bilaterally at L5S1 in five randomly selected fresh-frozen human cadavers. The following measurements were recorded: distances from the transiliac track to the iliac crest, posterior superior iliac spine, and superior gluteal neurovascular bundle; pelvic parameters; approach angles; cage's lateral and AP center point ratio (CPR); percentage of the cage crossing the midline in the AP and lateral views. Endplate integrity was assessed through endoscopic visualization. In addition, the facet joint, sacroiliac joint, iliolumbar ligament, and exiting and traversing nerve roots were checked for integrity through anatomic dissection. Results: In the transiliac technique, the axial and coronal approach angles were significantly decreased by 13.5º (95% CI -15.5; -11.5; p value<0.001) and 13.2º (95% CI -15.3; -11.1; p value<0.001), respectively, the sagittal approach angle was significantly increased by 5.4º (95% CI 1.8,8.9; p-value = 0.008), and the AP CPR was significantly higher (MD 0.16; 95% CI 0.12,0.20; p value<0.001). The percentage of the cage crossing the AP view's midline was increased by 31.6% (95% CI 19.8,43.4; p value<0.001). The integrity of endplates, facet joints, sacroiliac joints, iliolumbar ligament, and exiting and traversing nerve roots was maintained. Conclusion: L5S1 transiliac iLIF is a feasible surgical technique. It allows a more centrally placed interbody cage in the coronal plane without compromising the anterior position in the lateral plane. The integrity of the major anatomic structures at risk was preserved. Evidence Level III: A case-control study.

Resumo: Objetivo: Demonstrar a viabilidade da fusão intersomática lombar assistida por endoscopia (iLIF) em L5S1 através de abordagem transilíaca. Métodos: Dez iLIF por via transilíaca e dez iLIF por via suprailíaca foram realizados bilateralmente em L5S1 em cinco cadáveres selecionados aleatoriamente. Foram registadas as seguintes medidas: Distâncias da via transilíaca até a crista ilíaca, crista ilíaca póstero-superior e feixe neurovascular do glúteo superior; parâmetros pélvicos; ângulos da abordagem; relação do ponto central lateral e AP do cage (CPR); percentagem do cage cruzando a linha média nas incidências AP e perfil. A integridade das placas vertebrais foi avaliada através de visualização endoscópica. Foi verificada através de dissecção anatómica a integridade das articulações facetárias, sacroilíacas, ligamento iliolombar e raízes de L5 e S1. Resultados: Na técnica transilíaca, os ângulos de abordagem axial e coronal foram significativamente menores em 13,5º (CI 95% -15,5;-11,5; p<0,001) e 13,2º (CI 95% -15,3;-11,1; p<0,001 ), respectivamente, o ângulo de abordagem sagital aumentou significativamente em 5,4º (CI 95% 1,8,8,9; p = 0,008), e o AP CPR foi significativamente maior (MD 0,16; CI 95% 0,12,0,20; p <0,001). A percentagem do cage cruzando a linha média em AP foi superior em 31,6% (CI 95% 19,8,43,4; valor p<0,001). A integridade das placas vertebrais, articulações facetadas, articulações sacroilíacas, ligamento iliolombar e raízes de L5 e S1 foi mantida. Conclusão: A realização de iLIF L5S1 por via transilíaca é uma técnica cirúrgica viável. Permite que o cage seja colocado mais centrado no plano coronal sem comprometer a posição anterior no plano sagital. A integridade das principais estruturas anatómicas em risco foi preservada. Nível de Evidencia III: Estudo caso-controle.

Resumen: Objetivo: Demostrar la viabilidad de la fusión intersomática lumbar asistida por endoscopia (iLIF) en L5S1 con un abordaje transilíaco. Métodos: Se registraron las siguientes mediciones: distancias del abordaje transilíaco a la cresta ilíaca, la cresta ilíaca posterosuperior y el haz neurovascular glúteo superior; parámetros pélvicos; ángulos de abordaje; relación del punto medio lateral y AP del cage (CPR); porcentaje del cage que cruza la línea media en las incidencias AP y perfil. Se evaluó la integridad de las placas vertebrales por visualización endoscópica. Se comprobó la integridad de las articulaciones facetarias, las articulaciones sacroilíacas, el ligamento iliolumbar y las raíces de L5 y S1 mediante disección anatómica. Resultados: En la técnica transilíaca, los ángulos de abordaje axial y coronal fueron significativamente menores en 13,5° (IC 95% -15,5;-11,5; p<0,001) y 13,2º (IC 95% -15,3;-11,1); p<0,001 ), respectivamente, el ángulo de aproximación sagital aumentó significativamente en 5,4º (IC 95% 1,8,8,9; p = 0,008), y el AP CPR fue significativamente mayor (MD 0,16; IC 95% 0,12,0,20; p <0,001). El porcentaje del cage que cruzaba la línea media en AP era mayor en un 31,6% (IC 95% 19,8,43,4; valor p <0,001). Se mantuvo la integridad de las placas vertebrales, las articulaciones facetarias, las articulaciones sacroilíacas, el ligamento iliolumbar y las raíces de L5 y S1. Conclusión: La iLIF transilíaca L5S1 es una técnica quirúrgica viable. Permite colocar el cage más centrado en el plano coronal sin comprometer la posición anterior en el plano sagital. Se preservó la integridad de las principales estructuras anatómicas en riesgo. Nivel de evidencia III: Estudio de casos y controles.

Left oblique corridor for pre-psoas approach: image study / Corredor obliquo esquerdo para a abordagem pré-psoas: estudo de imagem / Corredor oblicuo izquierdo para el abordaje pre-psoas: estudio de imagen

ABSTRACT Introduction: This study describes the imaging characteristics and accessibility of the L4 / L5 left oblique corridor used in the OLIF spinal fusion approach and the dimensions of the left oblique corridor at L2/L3 and L3/L4. Methods: Observational, retrospective, and descriptive study, in which MRI is described for 330 patients. The length of the left OC L2/L3, L3/L4, and L4/L5 were measured and classified into four grades: 0 (not measurable), 1 (≤10 mm), 2 (10-20 mm), and 3 (≥20 mm). The psoas was measured at the level of the L4 / L5, and the modified Moro classification was used for the height of the psoas, considering high psoas from AII to AIV. The data was processed in the SPSS 26.0 system. Results: The mean age was 62.1 ± 13.5 years, the OC length in L2/L3, L3/L4 y L4/L5 were 16.1 ± 5.9, 16.2 ± 6.7 and 14.7 ± 8.8 mm, respectively. 14.8% had high psoas. OC grade 0 (2.1%) was obtained in 7 patients, 87 with grade 1 (26.4%), 129 with grade 2 (39.1%), and 107 with grade 3 (32.4%). The length of the OC in males was 2.4 mm (MD, 95% CI: 0.4-4.5, p: 0.02), more than in females. Conclusion: It was shown that 85.2% had an accessible psoas muscle for the left OLIF L4 / L5 approach, 71.5% had an accessible oblique corridor, and only 14.8% had high psoas. These parameters combined, 61.5% of MRI, were appropriate for this approach. Level of evidence III; Retrospective study.

Resumo: Introducción: Este estudio describe las características imagenológicas y la accesibilidad del corredor oblicuo izquierdo L4/L5 utilizado para la fusión intersomática oblicua, así como las dimensiones del corredor oblicuo izquierdo en L2/L3 y L3/L4. Métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo y descriptivo, que se describe la RM de 330 pacientes. Se midió la longitud del CO izquierdo L2/L3, L3/L4 y L4/L5 y se clasificó en cuatro grados: 0 (no medible), 1 (≤10 mm), 2 (10-20 mm) y 3 (≥20 mm). El psoas se midió a nivel de L4/L5, para la altura del psoas se utilizó la clasificación de Moro modificada; considerando psoas alto de AII a AIV. Los datos fueron procesados en el sistema SPSS 26.0. Resultados: La edad media fue de 62.1 ± 13.5 años, la longitud de CO en L2/L3, L3/L4 y L4/L5 fue de 16.1 ± 5.9, 16.2 ± 6.7 y 14.7 ± 8.8 mm, respectivamente. El 14.8% tenía psoas alto. En 7 pacientes, se obtuvo CO grado 0 (2.1%), 87 con grado 1 (26.4%), 129 con grado 2 (39.1%) y 107 con grado 3 (32.4%). La longitud de la CO en hombres fue 2.4 mm (DM, IC 95%: 0.4-4.5, p: 0.02) más que en las mujeres. Conclusão: Se demostró que el 85.2% tenía un psoas accesible para el abordaje OLIF L4/L5 izquierdo, el 71.5% tenía corredor oblicuo accesible y solo el 14.8% tenía psoas alto. Combinados estos parámetros, el 61.5% de las RM fueron apropiadas para este abordaje. Nivel de evidencia III; estudio retrospectivo.

Resumen: Introdução: Este estudo descreve as características de imagem e acessibilidade do corredor oblíquo esquerdo L4/L5 usado para a fusão intersomática oblíqua, bem como as dimensões do corredor oblíquo esquerdo em L2/L3 e L3/L4. Métodos: Estudo observacional e descritivo, no qual é descrita a RM de 330 pacientes. O comprimento do OC esquerdo L2/L3, L3/L4 e L4/L5 foi medido e classificado em quatro graus: 0 (não mensurável), 1 (≤10 mm), 2 (10-20 mm) e 3 (≥20 mm). O psoas foi medido no nível de L4/L5 sendo utilizada a classificação de Moro modificada; considerando um psoas alto de AII a AIV. Os dados foram processados no sistema SPSS 26.0. Resultados: A média de idade foi de 62.1 ± 13.5 anos, o comprimento do CO em L2/L3, L3/L4 e L4/L5 foi de 16.1 ± 5.9, 16.2 ± 6.7 e 14.7 ± 8.8 mm, respectivamente. 14.8% tinham psoas alto. Em 7 pacientes obteve-se CO grau 0 (2.1%), 87 com grau 1 (26.4%), 129 com grau 2 (39.1%) e 107 com grau 3 (32.4%). O comprimento do CO nos homens foi 2.4 mm (MD, IC 95%: 0.4-4.5, p: 0.02) a mais do que nas mulheres. Conclusión: Evidenciou-se que 85.2% tinham psoas acessível para a abordagem OLIF L4/L5 esquerda, 71.5% tinham corredor oblíquo acessível e apenas 14.8% tinham psoas alto. Combinados esses parâmetros, 61.5% das RMs foram adequadas para essa abordagem. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo.

Quality of life analysis on patients after arthroplasty or lumbar arthrodesis / Análise da qualidade de vida em pacientes pós artroplastia ou artrodese lombar / Análisis de la calidad de vida en pacientes tras una artroplastia o artrodesis lumbar

ABSTRACT Objective: To perform a retrospective analysis of patients with degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine undergoing arthrodesis or lumbar arthroplasty in terms of functional capacity and quality of life. Methods: Retrospective observational study analyzing the medical records of patients undergoing arthrodesis or lumbar arthroplasty, followed-up at an outpatient clinic from 2018 to 2020. Patient characteristics were evaluated; the quality of life through the results of the Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) and the functional capacity using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) in the pre-surgical and post-surgical periods (6 months, 1 and 2 years). The criterion to establish statistical significance was p≤0.05. Results: Sixty-one patients were evaluated. After the surgical interventions, the individuals migrated from the classification of invalid (61.4%-64.6%) to minimal/moderate disability (17.7%-25.6%). There was a decline in ODI scores over time of follow-up (p≤0.001) as well as in SF-36 values (p≤0.001) for all surgical techniques. In this regard, evaluating the difference in means revealed the better performance of lumbar arthroplasty (p≤0.001). Conclusion: The data suggest that lumbar arthroplasty offers greater benefits to patients regarding functional capacity and quality of life. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective, descriptive, observational study.

Resumo: Objetivo: Realizar uma análise retrospectiva de pacientes com doença degenerativa discal da coluna lombar submetidos à artrodese ou artroplastia lombar em termos de capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida. Métodos: Estudo observacional retrospectivo de análise de prontuários dos pacientes submetidos à artrodese ou artroplastia lombar, acompanhados ambulatorialmente no período de 2018 a 2020. Foram avaliadas as características dos pacientes; a qualidade de vida através dos resultados do Questionário Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) e a capacidade funcional utilizando o Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) nos períodos pré-cirúrgico e pós-cirúrgico (06 meses, 01 ano e 02 anos). O critério para estabelecer significância estatística foi valores de p≤0,05. Resultados: Foram avaliados 61 pacientes. Após as intervenções cirúrgicas, os indivíduos migraram da classificação inválido (61,4%-64,6%) para incapacidade mínima/moderada (17,7%-25,6%). Houve declínio nos escores do ODI ao longo do tempo de acompanhamento (p≤0,001) assim como nos valores do SF-36 (p≤0,001) para todas as técnicas cirúrgicas. Nesse quesito, a avaliação da diferença de médias revelou melhor desempenho da artroplastia lombar (p≤0,001). Conclusão: Os dados sugerem que a artroplastia lombar oferece maior benefício para os pacientes em termos de capacidade funcional e de qualidade de vida. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo, descritivo, observacional.

Resumen: Objetivo: Realizar un análisis retrospectivo de pacientes con enfermedad degenerativa del disco de la columna lumbar sometidos a artrodesis o artroplastia lumbar en términos de capacidad funcional y calidad de vida. Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo analizando las historias clínicas de pacientes sometidos a artrodesis o artroplastia lumbar, seguidos en consulta externa desde 2018 hasta 2020. Se evaluaron las características de los pacientes; la calidad de vida a través de los resultados del Cuestionario de Encuesta de Salud Short Form 36 (SF-36) y la capacidad funcional utilizando el Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) en los periodos prequirúrgico y posquirúrgico (06 meses, 01 año y 02 años). El criterio para establecer la significación estadística fue p≤0,05. Resultados: Se evaluaron 61 pacientes. Después de las intervenciones quirúrgicas, los individuos migraron de la clasificación de inválidos (61,4%-64,6%) a invalidez mínima/moderada (17,7%-25,6%). Hubo una disminución en las puntuaciones del ODI a lo largo del tiempo de seguimiento (p≤0,001) así como en los valores del SF-36 (p≤0,001) para todas las técnicas quirúrgicas. En ese sentido, la evaluación de la diferencia de medias reveló un mejor desempeño de la artroplastia lumbar (p≤0,001). Conclusión: Los datos sugieren que la artroplastia lumbar ofrece mayor beneficio a los pacientes en términos de capacidad funcional y calidad de vida. Nivel de Evidencia III; Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, observacional.

Effect of adjacent segmental facet joint degeneration on adjacent segment disease after lumbar fusion and fixation / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the effect of facet joint degeneration in adjacent segments on the incidence of adjacent segment disease (ASD) after lumbar fusion and fixation.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed on 138 patients who underwent L5S1 posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) from June 2016 to June 2019. Patients were divided into a degeneration group (68 cases) and a non-degenerative group (70 cases) based on the presence or absence of L4,5 facet joint degeneration before surgery (graded using the Weishaupt standard). Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), follow-up time, and preoperative L4,5 intervertebral disc degeneration (graded using the Pfirrmann standard) were collected for both groups. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) at 1 and 3 months after surgery. The incidence and time of ASD after surgery were analyzed.@*RESULTS@#There were no significant differences between the two groups in age, gender, BMI, follow-up time, or preoperative L4,5 intervertebral disc degeneration. Both groups showed significant improvement in VAS and ODI at 1 and 3 months after surgery (P<0.001), with no significant difference between the groups(P>0.05). However, there was a statistically significant difference in the incidence and timing of ASD between the groups (P<0.05). The degeneration group had 2 cases of ASD in gradeⅠdegeneration, 4 cases of ASD in gradeⅡdegeneration, and 7 cases of ASD in grade Ⅲ degeneration. There was a statistically significant difference between the number of patients with grade Ⅲ degeneration and those with gradesⅠandⅡASD (P<0.0167, Bonferroni correction).@*CONCLUSION@#Preoperative degeneration of adjacent articular processes will increase the risk of ASD after lumbar fusion fixation, whereas gradeⅢ degeneration will further increase the risk.