The diagnostic accuracy of community spine radiology for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis brace candidates.

PURPOSE: The study aims to establish the diagnostic accuracy of community spine x-rays for brace candidates. METHODS: A review of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients seen for initial visit at a tertiary care pediatric hospital was conducted (n = 170). The index test was the pre-referral community spine x-ray interpreted by a community radiologist. Measures of diagnostic accuracy for the index test were determined against the reference standard if images were obtained within 90 days (n = 111). The reference standard was the 3-foot standing EOS spine x-ray evaluated by spine specialists. Diagnostic criterion for a brace candidate was dichotomized by Cobb angle range (25-40°) according to Scoliosis Research Society criteria. Risser stage was not included given significant missing data in index reports. To mitigate the uncertainty around true progression, sensitivity analyses were conducted on a sub-sample of data when index test was within 60 days of the reference standard (n = 67). RESULTS: Accuracy of the community spine x-ray to detect a brace candidate was 65.8% (95% CI 56.2-74.5). Sensitivity of the index test was 65.4% with a false negative rate of 34.6%. Specificity was 66.1% with a false positive rate of 33.9%. Positive and negative predictive values were 63.0% and 68.4%, respectively. Of the total number of brace candidates (n = 52), 32.7% were missed because of underestimation in Cobb angle (95% CI 21.5-46.2). The proportion of missed brace candidates because of underestimation was unchanged with 60-day data (p = 0.37). CONCLUSIONS: Inaccuracies in community spine radiology may lead to missed opportunities for non-operative treatment.

Magnetically Controlled Growing Rods Graduation: Lessons From a Single-center Series of 48 Patients.

BACKGROUND: Magnetically controlled growing rod (MCGR) treatment for early-onset scoliosis (EOS) has become a widely utilized method of deformity control, but long-term follow-up reports are sparse. We evaluated the outcomes of a large group of consecutive pediatric patients diagnosed with EOS who were treated by MCGR to the endpoint of definitive spinal fusion in a single center. We hypothesized that lessons learned from treating a large volume of MCGR patients would lower the complication rate in comparison to what was previously reported by other studies. METHODS: The records of 48 EOS patients with varied etiologies who were treated by MCGR between 2012 and 2022 and reached the end of treatment were analyzed retrospectively for baseline and final radiographic measurements and surgery-related complications. RESULTS: The mean percent of improvement in the major coronal deformity was 51.7±25.0% and the mean T1 to T12 total growth was 52.9±21.9 mm. The total complication rate was 22.9% of which 12.5% required a single unplanned surgery, 6.3% required multiple unplanned surgeries, and 4% did not require any unplanned surgery. CONCLUSION: MCGR treatment provides adequate control of EOS, enabling satisfactory growth of the thoracic spine. The complication rate in a single large volume center is moderate. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Surgical management of high-grade paediatric spondylolisthesis: meta-analysis and systematic review.

PURPOSE: There is currently no consensus on the management of high-grade spondylolisthesis (HGS) in paediatric populations. The objective of this analysis is to compare the outcomes of reduction followed by fusion (RFF) or in situ fusion (ISF) in paediatric patients. METHODS: Using major databases, a systematic literature search was performed. Primary studies comparing ISF with RFF in paediatric and adolescent patients were identified. Study data including patient-reported outcomes, complications, and spinopelvic parameters were collected and analysed. RESULTS: Seven studies were included, comprising 97 ISF and 131 RFF. Average patient age was 14.4 ± 2.1 years and follow up was 8.2 ± 5.1 years. Patients undergoing RFF compared to patients undergoing ISF alone were less likely to develop pseudarthrosis (RR 0.51, 95% CI, [0.26, 0.99], p = 0.05). On average, RFF led to 11.97º more reduction in slip angle and 34.8% more reduction in sagittal translation (p < 0.00001) compared to ISF. There was no significant difference between patient satisfaction and pain at follow up. Neurologic complications and reoperation rates were not significantly different. CONCLUSIONS: Both RFF and ISF are effective techniques for managing HGS. Performing a reduction followed by fusion reduces the likelihood of pseudarthrosis in paediatric patients. The difference between risk of neurologic complications, need for reoperation, patient satisfaction, and pain outcomes did not reach statistical significance. Correlation with patient-reported outcomes still needs to be further explored. LEVEL 3 EVIDENCE: Meta-analysis of Level 3 studies.

Cementless posterior spinal fusion for the treatment of OI patients with severe spine deformity-a case series.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to present the outcomes all patients with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) who underwent cementless posterior spinal fusion for the treatment of severe spine deformity in our institution. METHODS: All patients with OI who underwent surgical correction of their spine deformity in our institution between 2003 and 2020 were enrolled. The collected data included demographics, operative and follow-up findings, medical history, bisphosphonate therapy, HGT protocol, pre- and post-HGT and postoperative scoliosis and kyphosis curve measurements, hospitalization length, complications, and revision surgeries. General treatment strategies included cessation of bisphosphonate therapy around the surgery, 30-day HGT protocol, titanium rods, cementless screw technique, and a high implant density policy. RESULTS: Eleven consecutive patients with OI who underwent surgery for spine deformity in our institution were identified. The mean age at surgery was 15.6 ± 2.3. Mean follow-up period was 6.6 ± 5.8 years. The mean pre- and postoperative scoliosis curves were 85.4 ± 19.3° and 43.1 ± 12.5°, respectively, representing a 49.5% correction rate. Five patients underwent HGT and achieved a mean correction of 27.6 ± 7.1° (31.6%) preoperatively. Implant density ratio was 1.5 (screw or hook/level). Mean postoperative hospitalization length was 5.9 ± 1.6 days. One patient had deep wound infection which resolved following treatment according to our protocol for surgical site infection, and one patient had skull penetration by one of the halo pins. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment of severe spine deformity in OI patients with cementless posterior spinal fusion is safe and effective after applying a specific preoperative strategy.

Prioritizing Elective Surgical Cases During a Pandemic or Global Crisis: The Elective-Pediatric Orthopedic Surgical Timing (E-POST) Score.

BACKGROUND: As the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic stabilized and resources became more readily available, elective surgery was reinitiated and hospitals realized that there was little guidance on how to prioritize elective cases. METHODS: A prioritization tool was formulated based on clinically relevant elements and previous literature. Nine pediatric orthopaedic surgeons from North American institutions evaluated 25 clinical scenarios on 2 occasions separated in time. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were calculated [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)]. Surgeons also ranked the importance of each element and how confident they were with scoring each factor. RESULTS: Intra-rater ICC for total score showed good to excellent consistency; highest at 0.961 for length of stay (LOS) and lowest at 0.705 for acuity. Inter-rater ICC showed good to excellent agreement for American Society of Anesthesiologists score, LOS, duration of surgery, and transfusion risk and moderate agreement for surgical acuity and personal protective equipment (PPE) use. Transfusion risk and duration of surgery were deemed least important, and surgeons were least confident in scoring PPE and transfusion risk. Based on findings, the novel Elective-Pediatric Orthopedic Surgical Timing (E-POST) score for prioritizing elective cases was developed, consisting of 5 factors: surgical acuity, global health status, LOS, duration of surgery, and PPE requirement. CONCLUSIONS: The E-POST numeric total score or subscore may help objectively prioritize elective cases during a global crisis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V.

Comparison of interventions and outcomes of enhanced recovery after surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 2456 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis cases.

PURPOSE: The objective of this meta-analysis and systematic review is to compare the methodology and evaluate the efficacy of Enhanced recovery after Spine Surgery (ERAS) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and to compare the outcomes with traditional discharge (TD) pathways. METHODS: Using major databases, a systematic search was performed. Studies comparing the implementation of ERAS or ERAS-like and TD pathways in patients with AIS were identified. Data regarding methodology and outcomes were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: Fourteen studies (n = 2456) were included, comprising 1081 TD and 1375 ERAS or ERAS-like patients. Average age of patients was 14.6 ± 0.4 years. Surgical duration was on average 35.6 min shorter for the ERAS group compared to TD cohort ([2.8, 68.3], p = 0.03), and blood loss was 112.3 milliliters less ([102.4, 122.2], p < 0.00001). ERAS group reached first ambulation 29.6 h earlier ([11.2, 48.0], p-0.002), patient-controlled-analgesia (PCA) discontinuation 0.53 day earlier ([0.4, 0.6], p < 0.00001), urinary catheter discontinuation 0.5 day earlier ([0.4, 0.6], p < 0.00001), and length-of-stay (LOS) was 1.6 days shorter ([1.4, 1.8], p < 0.00001). Rates of complications and 30-day-readmission-to-hospital were similar between both groups. Pain scores were significantly lower for ERAS group on days 0 through 2 post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: Use of ERAS after AIS is safe and effective, decreasing surgical duration and blood loss. ERAS methodology effectively focused on reducing time to first ambulation, PCA discontinuation, and urinary catheter removal. Outcomes showed significantly decreased LOS without a significant increase in complications. There should be efforts to incorporate ERAS in AIS surgery. Further studies are necessary to assess patient satisfaction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: Meta-analysis of Level 3 studies.

Congenital Kyphosis: Progressive Correction With an Instrumented Posterior Epiphysiodesis: A Preliminary Report.

PURPOSE: Congenital kyphosis is a rare condition. In this case series we sought to identify the outcomes and complications of posterior instrumented fusion and the resultant epiphysiodesis effect in uniplanar congenital kyphosis in pediatric patients. METHOD: Pediatric patients were included if treated for a uniplanar congenital kyphotic deformity treated with posterior instrumented spinal fusion between October 2006 and August 2017, with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Patients were excluded if a coronal deformity >10 degrees was present. RESULTS: Six patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age at surgery was 3.6 years. The mean kyphotic deformity before surgery was 49.7 degrees. All patients underwent posterior instrumented fusion with autogenous iliac crest graft and a cast or brace postoperatively. One patient showed a loss of motor evoked potential on prone positioning which returned to normal on supine positioning. No patient showed any postoperative neurological deficits. One patient was diagnosed with a wound infection which was successfully treated with oral antibiotics.By a follow-up of 5.4 years (range, 2.2 to 10.9 y) there was no failure of instrumentation. An epiphysiodesis effect (a difference of ≥5 degrees in the kyphotic deformity measured between the immediate postoperative and final follow-up lateral whole spine XR) of 16.2 degrees (range, 7.2 to 30.9 degrees) was seen in 5 patients. The mean annual epiphysiodesis effect was 2.7 degrees (95% confidence interval, 1.4-4.1 degrees). No kyphosis proximal to the instrumentation was observed for the duration of follow-up. CONCLUSION: Posterior instrumented fusion and epiphysiodesis is safe and effective. The epiphysiodesis effect occurs in 5/6 of cases, and our data suggests that the procedure is associated with an acceptable blood loss and a low incidence of neurological complications.

The Use of Halo Gravity Traction in Severe, Stiff Scoliosis.

PURPOSE: The correction of severe, stiff scoliosis in children is challenging. One method used to reduce the risk is preoperative halo gravity traction (HGT). In this study, the authors sought to define the efficiency and safety of HGT and characterize the chronology of the correction seen. METHOD: A consecutive group of pediatric patients with severe spinal deformities was treated with HGT before definitive correction. A standard protocol with the daily addition of weight to 50% of body weight at 3 weeks was used. Traction remained in place until signs of impending neurological complication or 6 weeks, whichever was sooner. RESULTS: Twenty-four patients were included with a mean age of 11.8 years. The mean coronal deformity was 123 degrees, with a T1-L5 height of 234 mm. The mean duration of traction was 42 days with a mean improvement in height of 72 mm with 82% occurring over the first 3 weeks. Hundred percent of the angular and 98% of T1-L5 height correction was reached by 6 weeks.One patient showed early signs of a cranial nerve palsy prompting early surgery and 8 patients showed pin loosening, 1 of which required revision of their halo. One patient underwent a slower progression of traction because of transitory urinary disturbance. Following fusion, angular correction of the major curve was 49%. CONCLUSION: HGT is a safe treatment for severe, stiff scoliosis because it can respond to early signs of impending neurological impairment. The first 3 weeks of treatment, reaching 50% of body weight as a traction force accounts for 80% of correction, with the remaining 20% in the following 2 weeks. At least 4 weeks of traction is recommended when following this protocol.

Spinal Casting for the Treatment of Severe Early Onset Scoliosis: Utilization of a Nonsurgical Health Care Provider for Cast Application.

BACKGROUND: Spinal casting with the aim of delaying surgical intervention is a widely accepted but resource intensive conservative management strategy used by spine surgeons to treat severe early onset scoliosis. Opting to use a nonsurgical health care provider for cast application may be an effective use of human resources if the quality of care is not compromised. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of spinal cast treatment utilizing a nonsurgical health care provider for cast application. METHODS: This is a chart and radiographic review of all 30 patients that initiated spinal cast treatment between 2007 and 2018 and have at least 2-year follow-up. A spine surgeon applied all casts before July 14; a physical therapist (PT) applied all subsequent casts. Comparative analyses were performed for baseline data and the amount of correction achieved in initial cast. Complications and delay time to surgery were recorded. RESULTS: The PT cast 16 patients (12 female, 10 idiopathic, 64 casts total), average age 3.8±1.4 years and mean major curve of 63±18 degrees. Similarly the spine surgeon cast 14 patients (11 female, 8 idiopathic, 53 casts total), average age 4.4±1.7 years (P=0.30) and mean major curve of 63±11 degrees (P=0.93). In the initial cast the PT obtained 55%±13% (28±12 degrees) correction and the surgeon 44%±12% (36±12 degrees, P=0.09). The average number of casts was similar (4.0 vs. 3.8, P=0.7). The PT had 1 patient develop superior mesenteric artery syndrome, which resolved with cast removal, and the surgeon had 2 patients require extra care related to skin breakdown. With average follow-up of 4.15 years (range, 2.0 to 5.8 y) 11/14 PT patients demonstrate curve improvement compared with their initial presentation and 2 patients have undergone surgical intervention (3.2 and 4.3 y after first cast). The surgeon's average delay time to surgery was 4.3 years (range, 1.8 to 8.7 y after first cast, n=10). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study support our current model of care utilizing a nonsurgical health care practitioner for spinal cast application. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-retrospective comparative.

Hyperchloremia and Diuresis in Children Undergoing Scoliosis Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Hyperchloremia is frequent in adult surgical patients and is associated with renal dysfunction. Studies in surgical pediatric patients are lacking. OBJECTIVES: To identify both the incidence of postoperative hyperchloremia in children undergoing surgery for idiopathic and non-idiopathic scoliosis, and the association of postoperative hyperchloremia with intraoperative fluid management and postoperative diuresis. METHODS: The records of 74 children and adolescents who underwent elective scoliosis surgery were retrospectively evaluated. The primary endpoint was the incidence of serum chloride level ≥ 110 mEq/L at the end of surgery and 12 hours postoperatively. Secondary endpoints were the type and volume of administered fluids, 12 hours postoperative diuresis, and the incidence of postoperative oliguria. RESULTS: Hyperchloremia occurred in 55% of the patients at the end of surgery and in 52% 12 hours postoperatively. Hyperchloremic patients received larger intraoperative volume of 0.9% NaCl diluted cell-saver blood and 10% HAES than did normochloremic patients [median (interquartile range) 6.8 (2.5-11.0) ml/kg vs. 0 (0-7.3), P = 0.003 and 10.0 (0-12.8) vs. 4.4 (0-9.8), P = 0.02, respectively]. Additionally, when compared with normochloremic patients, diuresis during the first 12 hours postoperatively was lower in hyperchloremic patients. Postoperative oliguria (urine output < 0.5 ml/kg/hr for 12 hours) was diagnosed in 7 children (9%), of whom 6 were hyperchloremic at the end of surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Early postoperative hyperchloremia is common in children undergoing scoliosis repair surgery and may be attributed to the administration of 0.9% NaCl diluted cell-saver blood and 10% HAES. Postoperative hyperchloremia might be associated with postoperative oliguria.

The use of fusion mass screws in revision spinal deformity surgery.

STUDY DESIGN: To report the use of a posterior based 'fusion mass screw' (FMS) as a primary or salvage fixation point in a revision spinal deformity following a previous posterior spinal fusion (PSF). Our experience of this technique in a case report and the clinical and radiological results are reported. OBJECTIVES: To describe the technique and uses of the FMS as a primary/salvage fixation point in osteotomies in previously arthrodesed spinal deformity surgery. Obtaining fixation points to correct and stabilize a spinal deformity with coronal and sagittal imbalance in a previously arthrodesed spine during revision surgery can be challenging. Several alternate pedicle fixation techniques and laminar screw techniques have been described in the literature. However, there is no description of these techniques in the presence of a spinal fusion with distorted anatomy. A pedicle screw placed coronally across a thick posterior fusion mass can provide an alternate method of fixation in these cases with complex anatomy. METHODS: Two cases of complex spinal deformity and corrective spinal osteotomies using fusion mass screws (FMSs) placed coronally across the posterior fusion mass are described. The first case is an 8-year-old patient with Marfan's syndrome who developed a crank shaft phenomenon and severe thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis following a previous PSF. The second case is a 53-year-old patient with coronal imbalance following PSF as a child using Harrington instrumentation who developed distal degeneration with stenosis in her remaining mobile segments. Both patients underwent vertebral column resection and osteotomy closure plus stabilisation using FMS. The clinical and radiological results and technique for insertion of the FMS are described. CONCLUSION: In this report, we present a novel method of using posterior FMSs to achieve fixation and correction in cases of revision deformity surgery with difficult anatomy. While we feel pedicle screws are the gold standard in deformity correction, knowledge of alternatives such as the FMS can allow surgeons to achieve stable constructs when faced with challenging situations.

The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatric spinal care: A multi-centric study.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected healthcare worldwide since December 2019. We aimed to identify the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on outpatient clinic and surgical volumes and peri-operative complications for pediatric spinal deformities patients. Methods: In this multi-center retrospective study, outpatient visits (in-person and virtual care) and pediatric spine surgeries volumes in four high-volume pediatric spine centers were compared between March and December 2019 and the same period in 2020. Peri-operative complications were collected and compared in the same periods. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and comparative analyses were performed. Results: During the 2020 study period, the outpatient visit (in-person and virtual care) volume decreased during local lockdown periods by 71% for new patients (p < 0.001) and 53% for returning patients (p = 0.03). Overall, for 2020, there was a 20% reduction in new patients (p = 0.001) and 21% decrease in returning patients (p < 0.001). During the pandemic, there was also 20% less overall surgical volume of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients undergoing primary posterior spinal fusion, with a 70% reduction during lockdown times (p < 0.001). Complication rate and profile were similar between periods. Conclusion: There was a significant decrease in outpatient pediatric spine outpatient visits, particularly new patients, which may increase the proportion of pediatric patients with spinal deformities that present late, meeting surgical indication. This, in combination with the reduction in surgical volume of AIS over the first year of the pandemic, could result in an extended waitlist for surgeries during years to come. Complication rate was similar for both periods, suggesting it is safe to continue elective pediatric spine surgery even in a time of a pandemic. Level of evidence: level IV.

Three dimensional analysis of brace biomechanical efficacy for patients with AIS.

PURPOSE: Corrective three dimensional (3D) effect of different braces is debatable. We evaluated differences in in-brace radiographic correction comparing a custom thoracic-lumbo-sacral-orthosis (TLSO) (T) brace to a Chêneau type TLSO (C) brace using 3D EOS reconstruction technology. Our primary research question was the 3D effect of brace on the spine and in particularly the apical vertebra rotation (AVR). METHODS: This was a retrospective comparative analysis of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who had orthogonal AP and lateral X-rays with and without brace. A 3D image of the spine was reconstructed. Coronal, sagittal and axial spine parameters were measured before bracing and then on the first post-brace X-ray. Brace efficacy in controlling coronal, sagittal and axial parameters was evaluated. RESULTS: Eighteen patients treated with the C brace and ten patients treated with the T brace were included. No difference was found regarding patients' age, gender, magnitude of Cobb angle, sagittal parameters or AVR at inclusion. Following bracing, AVR was significantly reduced by the C brace compared to the T brace [average correction of 8.2° vs. 4.9° (P = 0.02)]. Coronal and sagittal correction did not differ significantly between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: By utilizing a novel 3D reconstruction technology, we were able to demonstrate that braces differ in their immediate effects on the spine. Although clinical relevance should be evaluated in a future trial we feel that the ability to measure treatment effects in 3D, and especially the transverse plane, is an important tool when evaluating different treatments.

Successful conservative treatment for neglected rotatory atlantoaxial dislocation.

BACKGROUND: Rotatory atlantoaxial subluxation (RAS) is a rare condition that is often misdiagnosed and therefore incorrectly managed. We describe our experience and propose an algorithm for treating neglected RAS nonoperatively. METHODS: All consecutive children with neglected (>6 wk) RAS were treated in our department between 2005 and 2010 by cervical traction using a Gleason traction device and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants. When reduction was not achieved, the Gleason device was replaced by a halo device without manipulative reduction, and weight was added as necessary until reduction was successful. Fixation of reduction was either by a sternooccipital mandibular immobilizer or a halo vest for 3 to 4 months. RESULTS: All 5 children (4 boys and 1 girl, aged 4 to 11 y) were successfully treated for neglected RAS. The mean duration from symptom onset (eg, limited neck range of motion, discomfort) to treatment initiation was 11.6 weeks (range, 6 to 16 wk). Closed reduction was achieved by a Gleason or a noninvasive halo device within 1 to 2 weeks in 4 cases. The fifth case was reduced after 5 weeks of traction using a halo with a 5 kg weight. All children had symmetrical full range of motion, normal neurological examination, and were fully engaged in educational and sports activities without recurrent dislocations at final follow-up (mean, 30 mo; range, 18 to 49 mo). CONCLUSIONS: Conservative treatment by gradual and prolonged traction without manipulative reduction in neglected RAS might be a successful method. Reduction can often be achieved within 2 weeks of treatment onset. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV (retrospective case series).

A comparison of three- and two-rod constructs in the correction of severe pediatric scoliosis.

Purpose: Managing severe scoliosis is challenging and risky with a significant complication rate regardless of treatment strategy. In this retrospective comparative study, we report our results using a three-rod compared to two-rod construct in the surgical treatment of severe spine deformities to investigate which technique is safer, and which provides superior radiological outcomes. Methods: Forty-six consecutive patients undergoing posterior spine fusion for scoliosis between 2006 and 2017 were identified in our institutional records. Inclusion criteria were minimum coronal deformity of 90°, age < 18 years at the time of surgery and a minimum 2 years of follow-up. Radiographic and clinical parameters, as well as post-operative complications were compared between the two groups. Results: There were 21 patients in the three-rod group and 25 in the two-rod group. The mean preoperative major coronal deformity was 100°± 9 and 102°± 10 in the three-rod and two-rod, respectively (p = 0.6). The average major curve correction was 51% and 59% in three-rod and two-rod groups, respectively (p = 0.03). The post-operative thoracic kyphosis was 30°± 11 and 21°± 12 in the three-rod and the two-rod groups, respectively (p = 0.01). The surgical time was 476 ± 52 and 387 ± 84 min in three-rod and two-rod, respectively (p < 0.01). One patient in the two-rod cohort showed permanent post-operative sensory deficit. There were three unplanned returns to operating theater in the two-rod group. Conclusions: Coronal correction was better with two-rod, whereas sagittal balance was superior with three-rod. Both techniques achieved balanced spine treating severe scoliosis. The two-rod technique was associated with a higher likelihood of requiring revision surgery. Level of evidence: level 3.

How useful is pre-referral pediatric spine imaging?

PURPOSE: Primary care physicians rely on radiology reports to confirm a scoliosis diagnosis and inform the need for spine specialist referral. In turn, spine specialists use these reports for triage decisions and planning of care. The objectives were to determine (1) the adequacy of index images to inform treatment decisions at the initial consultation and (2) the utility of index radiology reports for appropriate triage decisions. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted including all idiopathic scoliosis patients seen for initial consultation, aged three to 18 years, between January 1 and April 30, 2021. A score out of five was generated based on the adequacy of index images to provide accurate Cobb angle measurements and determine skeletal maturity. Index images were considered inadequate if repeat imaging was necessary. Index radiology reports, associated imaging, and new imaging, if obtained at the initial consultation, were compared. RESULTS: Of the 94 patients reviewed, 79% (n = 74) required repeat imaging at the initial consultation, of which 74% (n = 55) were due to insufficient quality and/or limited field of view. Of index images available for review at the initial consult (n = 80), 41.2% scored five out of five, and 32.5% scored two or below. Comparing index radiology reports to initial visit evaluation with ≤ 60 days between imaging (n = 49), discrepancies in Cobb angle were found in 24.5% (95% CI 14.6, 38.1) of patients. The Risser stage was reported in 14% of index radiology reports. CONCLUSION: Although pre-referral pediatric spine radiographs serve a diagnostic purpose, most are inadequate for comprehensive idiopathic scoliosis evaluation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Management of perinatal cervical spine injury using custom-fabricated external orthoses: design considerations, narrative literature review, and experience from the Hospital for Sick Children. Illustrative cases.

BACKGROUND: Cervical spine injuries in neonates are rare and no guidelines are available to inform management. The most common etiology of neonatal cervical injury is birth-related trauma. Management strategies that are routine in older children and adults are not feasible due to the unique anatomy of neonates. OBSERVATIONS: Here, the authors present 3 cases of neonatal cervical spinal injury due to confirmed or suspected birth trauma, 2 of whom presented immediately after birth, while the other was diagnosed at 7 weeks of age. One child presented with neurological deficits due to spinal cord injury, while another had an underlying predisposition to bony injury, infantile malignant osteopetrosis. The children were treated with a custom-designed and manufactured full-body external orthoses with good clinical and radiographic outcomes. A narrative literature review further supplements this case series and highlights risk factors and the spectrum of birth-related spinal injuries reported to date. LESSONS: The current report highlights the importance of recognizing the rare occurrence of cervical spinal injury in newborns and provides pragmatic recommendations for management of these injuries. Custom orthoses provide an alternate option for neonates who cannot be fitted in halo vests and who would outgrow traditional casts.

Utility of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring in detecting motor and sensory nerve injuries in pediatric high-grade spondylolisthesis.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) during surgical correction of spinal deformity has been shown to reduce iatrogenic injury in pediatric and adult populations. Although motor-evoked potentials (MEP), somatosensory-evoked potentials (SSEP), and electromyography (EMG) have been shown to be highly sensitive and specific in detecting spinal cord and nerve root injuries, their utility in detecting motor and sensory nerve root injury in pediatric high-grade spondylolisthesis (HGS) remains unknown. PURPOSE: We aim to assess the diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic impact of unimodal and multimodal IONM in the surgical management of HGS. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE: Pediatric patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for treatment of HGS. OUTCOME MEASURES: Data on patient demographics, spinopelvic and spondylolisthesis parameters, and the presence of pre-and postoperative neurological deficits were collected. METHODS: Intraoperative MEP, SSEP, and EMG alerts were recorded. Alert criteria were defined as a change in amplitude of more than 50% for MEP and/or SSEP, with or without change in latency, and more than 10 seconds of sustained EMG activity. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy were calculated for each modality and the combination of MEP and SSEP. The 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the exact (Clopper-Pearson) method. RESULTS: Fifty-four pediatric patients with HGS undergoing PSF between 2003 and 2021 in a single tertiary center were included. Seventy-two percent (39/54) of patients were female; the average age of patients was 13.7±2.3 years. The sensitivity of MEP in detecting new postoperative neurologic deficit was 92.3% (95% CI [64.0-99.8]), SSEP 77.8% (95% CI [40.0-97.2]), EMG 69.2% (95% CI [38.6-90.9]), and combination MEP and SSEP 100% (95% CI [73.5-100]). The specificity of MEP was 80.0% (95% CI [64.4-91.0]), SSEP 95.1% (95% CI [83.5-99.4]), EMG 65.9% (95% CI [49.4-79.9]), and combination MEP and SSEP 82.9% (95% CI [67.9-92.9]). The accuracy of SSEP was 92.0% (95% CI [80.8%-97.8%]), and the combination of MEP and SSEP was 86.8% (95% CI [74.7%-94.5%]). Twelve (22.2%) patients had a new motor or sensory deficit diagnosed immediately postoperatively. Nine patients made a full recovery, and 3 had some neurologic deficit on final follow-up. CONCLUSION: Unimodal IONM using SSEP and MEP alone were accurate in diagnosing sensory and motor nerve root injuries, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy in predicting motor and sensory nerve injuries in pediatric HGS improved further with the use of multimodal IONM (combining MEP and SEP). We recommend the utilization of multimodal IONM in all HGS PSF surgeries.

Utilization of individual components of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol improves post-operative outcomes in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a blueprint for progressive adoption of ERAS.

PURPOSE: Enhanced recovery after surgery [ERAS] is an approach for standardization of perioperative care aimed at improving patient outcomes. The primary aim of this study was to determine if length of stay (LOS) differed by protocol type (ERAS vs. non-ERAS [N-ERAS]) in patients undergoing surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Patient characteristics were collected and compared between groups. Differences in LOS were assessed using regression adjusting for age, sex, BMI, pre-surgical Cobb angle, levels fused and year of surgery. RESULTS: Fifty nine ERAS patients were compared to 81 N-ERAS patients. Patients were comparable in their baseline characteristics. Median LOS was 3 days (IQR = 3-4) for the ERAS group, compared to 5 days (IQR = 4-5) for the N-ERAS group (p < 0.001). The ERAS group had a significantly lower adjusted rate of stay (RR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.62-0.92). The ERAS group had significantly lower average pain on post-operative days 0 (least-squares-mean [LSM] 2.66 vs. 4.41, p < 0.001), POD1 (LSM 3.12 vs. 4.48, p < 0.001) and POD5 (LSM 2.84 vs. 4.42, p = 0.035). The ERAS group had lower opioid consumption (p < 0.001). LOS was predicted by the number of protocol elements received; those receiving two (RR = 1.54 95% CI = 1.05-2.24), one (RR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.09-2.03) or none (RR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.21-2.13) had significantly longer rates of stay than those receiving all four. CONCLUSION: Adoption of modified ERAS-based protocol for patients undergoing PSF for AIS led to significant reduction in LOS, average pain scores, and opioid consumption.

Risk factors associated with in-hospital adverse events: a multicenter observational cohort study of 1853 pediatric patients with traumatic spinal cord injury.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, the authors aimed to quantify the frequency of in-hospital major adverse events (AEs) in a multicenter cohort of pediatric patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) managed at North American trauma centers. They also sought to identify patient and injury factors associated with the occurrence of major and immobility-related AEs. METHODS: Data derived from the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) were used to identify a cohort of pediatric patients (age < 19 years) with traumatic SCI. The authors identified individuals with major and immobility-related AEs following injury. They used mixed-effects multivariable logistic regression to identify clinical variables associated with AEs after injury. This analytical approach allowed them to account for similarities in care delivery between patients managed in the same trauma settings during the study period while also adjusting for patient-level confounders. The adjusted impact of AEs on in-hospital mortality and length of stay (LOS) were also assessed through further multivariable regression analysis. Additional subgroup analyses were performed to reduce bias associated with competing risks and explore the age-specific risk factor associations with AEs. RESULTS: A total of 1853 pediatric patients who sustained either cervical or thoracic SCI were managed at ACS TQIP trauma centers between 2017 and 2020. The most frequently encountered AE types were pressure ulcer, unplanned intubation, cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and ventilator-associated pneumonia. The crude rate of major in-hospital and immobility-related AEs significantly differed between subgroups, with higher proportions of AEs in complete injuries compared with incomplete injuries. The adjusted risk for major AE following injury was significantly elevated for cervical complete SCI, patients with severe concomitant abdominal injuries, and for those presenting with depressed Glasgow Coma Scale scores less than 13. These same risk factors were associated with major AEs in children older than 8 years but were not significant for younger children (age ≤ 8 years). Complication occurrence was not associated with difference in risk-adjusted mortality (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.45-1.14), but did increase LOS by 2.2 days (95% CI 1.4-2.7 days). CONCLUSIONS: The authors outlined the prevalence of in-hospital AEs in a large multicenter cohort of North American pediatric SCI patients. Important risk factors predisposing this population to AEs include cervical complete injuries, simultaneous abdominal trauma, and Glasgow Coma Scale scores < 13 at presentation. Postinjury complications impacted health resource utilization by increased LOS but did not affect postinjury mortality. These findings have important implications for pediatric SCI providers and future care quality benchmarking.