Bridging defects in chronic spinal cord injury using peripheral nerve grafts combined with a chitosan-laminin scaffold and enhancing regeneration through them by co-transplantation with bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells: case series of 14 patients.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of bridging defects in chronic spinal cord injury using peripheral nerve grafts combined with a chitosan-laminin scaffold and enhancing regeneration through them by co-transplantation with bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. METHODS: In 14 patients with chronic paraplegia caused by spinal cord injury, cord defects were grafted and stem cells injected into the whole construct and contained using a chitosan-laminin paste. Patients were evaluated using the International Standards for Classification of Spinal Cord Injuries. RESULTS: Chitosan disintegration leading to post-operative seroma formation was a complication. Motor level improved four levels in 2 cases and two levels in 12 cases. Sensory-level improved six levels in two cases, five levels in five cases, four levels in three cases, and three levels in four cases. A four-level neurological improvement was recorded in 2 cases and a two-level neurological improvement occurred in 12 cases. The American Spinal Impairment Association (ASIA) impairment scale improved from A to C in 12 cases and from A to B in 2 cases. Although motor power improvement was recorded in the abdominal muscles (2 grades), hip flexors (3 grades), hip adductors (3 grades), knee extensors (2-3 grades), ankle dorsiflexors (1-2 grades), long toe extensors (1-2 grades), and plantar flexors (0-2 grades), this improvement was too low to enable them to stand erect and hold their knees extended while walking unaided. CONCLUSION: Mesenchymal stem cell-derived neural stem cell-like cell transplantation enhances recovery in chronic spinal cord injuries with defects bridged by sural nerve grafts combined with a chitosan-laminin scaffold.

Three-staged correction of severe rigid idiopathic scoliosis using limited halo-gravity traction.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the advantages of modern instrumentation techniques, the treatment of severe rigid idiopathic scoliosis could be very demanding. Traction can provide better, safer correction and minimize complications related to forceful intra-operative maneuvers; however, several side effects are associated with prolonged periods of traction. The aim of this work is to review the clinical and radiographic results of limited perioperative halo-gravity traction in severe rigid curves analyzing its efficacy, advantages and possible complications and comparing it to classic two staged corrections performed without traction. METHODS: A retrospective case control study including 47 adolescents with severe rigid idiopathic scoliosis divided into two groups; a consecutive series of 21 patients who had a three-staged correction by an anterior release, 2 weeks of halo-gravity traction then posterior instrumentation (TRN group); compared to an earlier series of 26 consecutive patients treated without traction (SAP group). The average age was 18 years + 1 month and 16 years + 2 months, respectively. The average preoperative dorsal and lumbar curves for (TRN) group were 106.5° and 87°, respectively, and for (SAP) group were 102° and 81°, respectively. RESULTS: Patients were followed up for an average of 6 years (range 3-8 years). A significantly better correction was achieved in (TRN) group (average 59%) compared to (SAP) group (average 47%). At final follow-up, the loss of correction had an average of 8° for (TRN) group and 11° for (SAP) group. A shorter hospital stay was found in (SAP) group; a shorter operative time was found in (TRN) group and there was no significant difference in blood loss, early or delayed complications. CONCLUSIONS: Limited halo-gravity traction is an efficient, safe modality in the treatment of severe rigid adolescent scoliosis. The application of gradual traction over a limited period of 2 weeks led to better correction, shorter operative time with no significant complications.

Single stage anterior reconstruction using titanium mesh cages in neglected kyphotic tuberculous spondylodiscitis of the cervical spine.

Cervical tuberculous spondylodiscitis is a serious, hazardous disorder and to our knowledge, hardly any reports focused on the use of titanium mesh cages in its treatment. The aim of this work is to evaluate the efficacy of using a titanium mesh cage compared to iliac crest grafting regarding correction of the deformity, fusion rate and to report the incidence of complications. A prospective, non-randomized multicentre study of 30 patients with cervical tuberculous spondylodiscitis presenting with a neglected kyphotic deformity. The average age was 44.5 years; 18 had neurological deficits. All patients had a single stage radical debridement, decompression, and instrumentation. The anterior column was reconstructed with a titanium mesh cage in 16 patients (Group 1) and an autogenous iliac bone strut graft in 14 (Group 2). Both groups were followed for a minimum of 2 years. Group 1 showed a better sagittal profile and local kyphosis was corrected from an average of 36° (10°-62°) to an average of -6° (+4° to -16°) compared to Group 2 corrected from an average of 30° (6°-48°) to an average of -1° (+2° to -13°). Group 1 patients showed a solid bony fusion without any recurrence of infection while Group 2 showed a higher incidence of nonunion and of persistent donor site morbidity. The use of titanium mesh cages effectively restores the sagittal profile while adding immediate stability. There is no donor site morbidity, recurrence, or persistence of infection associated with their implantation.

Comparison between pedicle subtraction osteotomy and anterior corpectomy and plating for correcting post-traumatic kyphosis: a multicenter study.

Kyphosis is a common sequel of inadequately managed thoracolumbar fractures. This study compares between pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) and anterior corpectomy and plating (ACP) for correcting post-traumatic kyphosis. Forty-three patients with symptomatic post-traumatic kyphosis of the thoracolumbar spine were treated with PSO and prospectively followed for a minimum of 2 years. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used to assess clinical improvement and radiographs were obtained at 2, 6, 12 and 24 months. The recorded clinical and radiological outcomes were compared to a control group of 37 patients, who were treated earlier by the same authors with ACP. The mean correction of the kyphotic angle was 29.8° for the PSO group and 22° for the ACP group (P = 0.001). PSO group showed significantly better improvement in the VAS score and the ODI. At final follow-up, patients reported very good satisfaction (93% in PSO vs. 81% in ACP) and good function (90% in PSO vs. 73% in ACP). Complications in the PSO group included pulling out of screws and recurrence of deformity requiring revision and longer fixation (1 patient), and transient lower limb paraesthesia (2 patients). Recorded complications in the ACP group included an aortic injury (1 patient) that was successfully repaired, pseudarthrosis (1 patient), persistent graft donor site morbidity (3 patients), and incisional hernia (1 patient). PSO and ACP are demanding procedures. PSO seems to be equally safe but more effective than ACP for correcting post-traumatic kyphosis.

Surgical correction of severe dystrophic neurofibromatosis scoliosis: an experience of 32 cases.

The surgical management of severe rigid dystrophic neurofibromatosis curves is a demanding procedure with uncertain results. Several difficulties are present in such patients including a poor bone stock, sharp angulation of these dystrophic curves and dural thinning or ectasia. The aim of this work was to review the clinical and radiographic outcomes of three-dimensional correction of severe rigid neurofibromatosis curves analyzing its efficacy, safety and possible complications. Thirty-two patients were followed up for an average of 6.5 years (range 3-9 years). The average age at surgery was 14 years (range 11-19 years). All patients had typical dystrophic curves, and the apex of the deformity was thoracic (n = 13), thoracolumbar (n = 14) and lumbar (n = 5). All patients had a two-staged procedure; an anterior release followed latter by posterior hybrid instrumentation augmented by sublaminar wires. Two wires were usually placed immediately below the proximal anchor, and several sublaminar wires were always passed at the apex of the deformity. There were a total of 142 wires with an average of 6.5 wires/patient (range 5-8 wires). The mean preoperative Cobb angle of the scoliotic curve was 102.2 degrees (range 71 degrees-114 degrees) corrected to an average of 39 degrees (range 16 degrees-49 degrees), and the loss of correction had an average of 4 degrees. The mean preoperative sagittal plane deformity was 49 degrees corrected by an average of 61%, and rotation was corrected by an average of 34%. There were no dural tears during passage of the sublaminar wires, no implant-related complications and no permanent neurologic deficits. The use of extensive and vigorous anterior release with posterior hybrid instrumentation has proved useful and effective in the treatment of these severe deformities; sublaminar wires allow safe gradual correction and even distribution of forces over multiple anchor points improving the correction achieved and decreasing implant-related complications.

Transpedicular screw fixation for type II Hangman's fracture: a motion preserving procedure.

Opinions have varied regarding the optimal treatment of an unstable Hangman's fracture. C2 pedicle screw instrumentation is a biomechanically strong fixation which although done through a simple posterior approach, is a technically demanding procedure. This prospective, non-randomized multicentre study included 15 consecutive patients with displaced type II traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis. There were nine males and six females with a mean age of 37 years at surgery. The cause of injury was a road traffic accident in 11 patients and a fall from height in 4 patients. All patients had a single stage reduction and direct transpedicular screw fixation through the C2 pedicles. During follow-up, clinical evaluation and plain X-rays were performed at each visit; at 6-month follow-up, additional dynamic lateral flexion/extension views and a CT scan were performed. The average follow-up period was 32 months (range 25-56 months). At final follow-up, all patients were asymptomatic and regained a good functional outcome with no limitation of range of motion; all the patients showed solid union with no implant failure. There were no neurological complications. At 6-month follow-up, CT evaluation showed fusion in all patients and an adequate position of 28 screws. Two pedicle screws (6.6%) showed minimal (defined as <2 mm) intrusion; one into the spinal canal and the other into the vertebral foreamen. Transpedicular screw fixation through the C2 pedicles is a safe and effective method in treating type II traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis resulting in good clinical and radiological outcomes. Adequate reduction was achieved and motion segments were preserved with its use.

Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for the Surgical Management of Post-Discectomy Syndrome.

STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective case series of 30 patients with post-discectomy syndrome with an average of 18 months of follow-up (level IV). PURPOSE: The efficacy of post-discectomy syndrome managed by minimally invasive surgery transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) was evaluated. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: In post-discectomy syndrome wherein conservative treatment had failed, the best surgical treatment modality still remains controversial. METHODS: Patients were functionally assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for low back pain (LBP) and leg pain (LP) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Radiological fusion was confirmed with plain X-rays and when indicated with computed tomography scan at 12 months postoperatively. A total of 30 patients with 37 operated at lumbar levels with failed discectomy surgery who met our inclusion criteria were treated with MIS-TLIF. RESULTS: The ODI of all patients showed significant improvement from a mean of 73.78% preoperatively to 16.67% at 1 month and 14.13% at 12 months postoperatively. The preoperative LBP VAS score (mean, 4.37) showed a significant decrease (p <0.001) to 1.90 at 1 month and 1.10 at 12 months. Preoperative LP VAS score of limb pain averaged 7.53 and showed a significant (p <0.001) decrease to 3.47 at 1 month and 1.10 at 12 months. All patients attained radiological fusion at 12 months. CONCLUSIONS: MIS-TILF constitutes a valid and effective treatment option for patients with post-discectomy syndrome.

A comparative study between the Universal Spinal System® (USS) and the CD Horizon® Legacy™ (CDH) in the management of thoracolumbar fractures.

INTRODUCTION: For the treatment of unstable non-osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures, the clinical and radiological outcome of short-segment fixation with the USS™ - Universal Spine System (DePuy Orthopedics, Inc., Warsaw, IN, USA) and the CD HORIZON® LEGACY™ 5.5 Spinal System, (Medtronic Sofamor Danek USA, Inc., Memphis, TN, USA) were compared. METHODS: From March 2015 to January 2016, 40 consecutive patients with unstable traumatic thoracolumbar fractures who met our inclusion criteria were treated with either the USS system or CDH Legacy system. Segmental kyphosis angle (SKA) and anterior body height (ABH) of fractured vertebrae, and ASIA Impairment Scale (AIS) were evaluated. Radiological fusion was confirmed with plain X-rays and when indicated with computerized tomography (CT). RESULTS: The mean immediate kyphotic angle correction was 16.6° for the Schanz and 6.4 for the Legacy system, and the immediate mean anterior vertebral body height correction was 0.92 cm for the Schanz and 0.51 cm for the Legacy system. Our study shows a significant statistical difference between Schanz and Legacy systems regarding post-operative segmental kyphosis and height correction immediately postoperatively, at 6 months and at one-year follow-up (p-value < 0.005). The degree of pain reduction and neurological improvement was not influenced by the screw system. CONCLUSION: Usage of USS in thoracolumbar fracture as a short-segment fixation led to a near anatomical reduction when compared to the Legacy system. However, there was no advantage regarding pain reduction and neurological outcome.

The use of platelet-rich fibrin in lumbar interbody fusion in lytic spondylolisthesis.

STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective observational study. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of applying the platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) with bone graft in accelerating the rate of lumbar interbody fusion. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This was a retrospective study measuring the outcome of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) combined with PRF versus PLIF alone in the management of lytic spondylolisthesis. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty patients were treated with instrumented PLIF for low-grade lytic spondylolisthesis and divided into two equal groups: one with addition of PRF to the bone graft and the other without. The minimum follow-up was 2 years. Clinical outcome was measured by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analogue Pain Scale (VAS) at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Radiological outcome was measured by standing X-ray at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months and computed tomography at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: ODI for the PRF group improved by 60% and 79% at 6 and 12 months, respectively, whereas for the non-PRF group, it improved by 55% and 70%. Radiological outcome showed fusion in 15 of 20 cases in the PRF group (75%) by the 6th month and in 19 of 20 cases (95%) by 1 year and 100% at 2 years. In the control group, fusion was present in 12 of 20 cases (60%) by the 6th month and in 13 of 20 cases in the PRF group (65%) by 1 year and 90% at 2 years (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary results show that PRF accelerates the rate of fusion in low-grade lytic spondylolisthesis in short-term follow-up.

The use of anterior cervical interbody spacer with integrated fixation screws for management of cervical disc disease.

INTRODUCTION: Integrated cage and screw designs were introduced for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and allegedly are superior to anterior plating due to their minimal anterior profile. METHODS: A descriptive study was designed as a prospective case series of 25 patients (30 operated discs) with cervical disc disease treated with a zero-profile cage, and followed up for an average of 16 months (range 12 -18 months). Functional assessment was done with the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for arm and neck pain. Furthermore, Nurick's classification system for myelopathy based on gait abnormalities was documented. Radiological fusion was confirmed with plain X-rays and when indicated with a CT scan at 12 months postoperatively. Dysphagia was classified according to the Bazaz criteria. RESULTS: VAS for neck and arm pain, NDI, and Nurick Score immediately improved postoperatively and remained so at 12-month follow-up. Fusion was achieved in 19 patients (95%) at six months and in 20 patients (100%) of the single-level group at one year. At six months 80% (four patients) and at 12 months 100% (five patients) showed complete union in the double-level group. No evidence of cage subsidence was noted radiographically. DISCUSSION: The favorable lordosis and fusion rates of the low-profile integrated device are consistent with ACDF using anterior plating. Additionally, improved pain and an acceptable rate of dysphagia support the use of integrated interbody spacers for use in ACDF procedures.

The Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis International Disease Severity Study: Do Operative Curve Magnitude and Complications Vary by Country?

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in diverse regions of the world has been studied. Access to care varies widely, and differences in disease severity and operative treatment outcomes are not well understood. This study aimed to determine variation in disease presentation and operative complications for AIS patients from an international cohort. METHODS: This is a retrospective study carried out at seven surgical centers in the United States (Manhattan and Miami), Ghana, Pakistan, Spain, Egypt, and China. A total of 541 consecutive patients with AIS were evaluated. Preoperative major curve magnitude, operative parameters, and complications were compared among sites using analysis of variance with post hoc tests and Pearson correlation coefficients. Univariate and multivariate forward stepwise binary logistic regressions determined the variables most predictive of complications. RESULTS: Countries with lowest-access to care (Ghana, Egypt, and Pakistan) displayed larger curves, more levels fused, longer operative time (OT), and greater estimated blood loss (EBL) than the other countries (p ≤ .001). Increasing curve magnitude was correlated with greater levels fused, longer OT, and greater EBL in all groups (p = .01). In the univariate regression analysis, Cobb magnitude, levels fused, EBL, and OT were associated with complication occurrence. Only OT remained significantly associated with complication occurrence after adjusting for Cobb magnitude, levels fused, and site (odds ratio [OR] = 1.005, 95% confidence interval 1.001-1.007, p = .003). Complications were greatest in Pakistan and Ghana (21.7% and 13.5%, respectively) and lowest in Miami (6.5%). CONCLUSIONS: Larger curve magnitudes in the least-access countries correlated with more levels fused, longer OT, and greater EBL, indicating that increased curve magnitude at surgery could explain the difference in operative morbidity between low- and high-access countries. With OT as the prevailing predictive factor of complications, we suggest that increased curve magnitude leads to longer OTs and more complications. A lack of access to orthopedic care may be the largest contributor to the postponement of treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Role of Cerebrolysin in cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients: a prospective randomized study.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Cerebrolysin is a mixture containing 85% free amino acids and 15% biologically active low-molecular weight peptides that is believed to mimic the effects of endogenous neurotrophic factors to interact with the pathologic process cascade of neurodegenerative diseases. No study has examined the effect of Cerebrolysin on cervical myelopathic patients. PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Cerebrolysin as a conservative modality on cervical spondylotic myelopathic patients. STUDY DESIGN: This is a prospective randomized study. PATIENT SAMPLE: A total of 192 patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) were subdivided blindly into two equal groups. OUTCOME MEASURES: Followed-up was performed at 1, 3, and 6 months comparing the recovery rate Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score for cervical myelopathy between the two groups. METHODS: Group I received Cerebrolysin and Group II received placebo for 4 weeks; both groups received celecoxib 200 mg for 4 weeks. RESULTS: Myelopathy improved in 92% and 52% of patients at 1 month in Groups I and II, respectively; these changed at 6 months to 87% and 33%; the remaining 13% in Group I neither improved nor deteriorated, whereas 60% in Group II neither improved nor deteriorated and 7% deteriorated with statistically significant differences when comparing the mean JOA recovery rate between the 2 groups at 1, 3, and 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Cerebrolysin over 4 weeks is safe and effective for the improvement of CSM as compared with placebo, with no reported cases of neurologic deterioration over 6 months of follow-up.

Lumbar fusion for lytic spondylolisthesis: Is an interbody cage necessary?

STUDY DESIGN: This study was a retrospective observational study. PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to determine the radiological and clinical outcome of using locally sourced autologous bone graft in the surgical management of single-level lumbar lytic spondylolisthesis. BACKGROUND: Many spinal surgeons supplement pedicle screw fixation of lumbar spondylolisthesis with cages. In developing countries, the high cost of interbody cages has precluded their use, with surgeons resorting to filling the interbody space with different types of bone graft instead. This study reports on the clinical and radiological outcome of posterior lumbar interbody fusions for low-grade lytic spondylolisthesis using locally sourced autologous bone graft. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Posterior interbody fusion was performed in 22 consecutive patients over 18-month period, using (BRAND) pedicle screw system and locally sourced bone graft, i.e., bone removed during neural decompression. There were no postoperative restrictions, and all patients underwent clinical outcome measurements using Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analogue pain score (VAS) at a minimum follow-up of 12 months, and computed tomography (CT) assessment of fusion with intraobserver validation by radiology consultant blinded, at 6 and12 months. Nearly 50% of the population were smokers. RESULTS: There was significant clinical improvement in ODI, VAS back pain, and VAS leg pain (P < 0.001). By contrast, the radiologic fusion rate measured by CT at 12 months was less satisfactory at 64%. There was no difference in clinical outcome between the fused group and nonfused population. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that the use of locally sourced bone graft in single-level lumbar lytic low-grade spondylolisthesis. Interbody fusion provides good clinical outcomes. The use of an interbody cage may not be clinically necessary. Our radiologic outcome, however, shows inferior fusion rates compared with published data. Future research will focus on long-term outcomes.

Augmentation of fenestrated pedicle screws with cement in patients with osteoporotic spine.

BACKGROUND: Backing out and failure of pedicle screws in patients with osteoporosis is becoming a big problem due to wide use of these screws nowadays. PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the purchase of fenestrated pedicle screws augmented with cement in patients with osteoporosis. STUDY DESIGN: This was retrospective observational study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From May 2015 to January 2016, 25 patients with a poor bone stock condition underwent posterior fixation by fenestrated pedicle screws and cement augmentation. Assessment of pain improvement was done by visual analogue score (VAS) score while the long-term clinical outcome was assessed using Oswestry low back disability questionnaire (Oswestry disability index [ODI]). Implant stability was evaluated by plain radiography. Complications were evaluated in all cases. RESULTS: All patients were followed up clinically and radiographically for a mean age of 24.84 months. There was a significant reduction in pain and improvement of the quality of life as detected using VAS scores and ODI questionnaire consecutively (P < 0.001). No radiological loosening or backing out of screws was observed. Cement leakage occurred in five cases. CONCLUSION: Augmentation of fenestrated screws with cement provided effective and lasting purchase in patients with osteoporosis. The only clinical complication strictly related to this technique was cement leakage.

Proximal humeral fractures treated with hemiarthroplasty: does tenodesis of the long head of the biceps improve results?

INTRODUCTION: Pathology of the long head of the biceps (LHB) may be the cause of anterior shoulder pain after hemiarthroplasty for treatment of fractures of the proximal humerus. The currently available literature lacks adequate randomised trials examining whether tenodesis of the LHB improves results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of tenodesis of the LHB on the clinical outcome following hemiarthroplasty for fractures of the proximal humerus. METHODS: This prospective randomised study included 37 patients treated with hemiarthroplasty for four-part fractures, fracture dislocations and head-splitting fractures. The LHB was left intact in 18 patients (group 1) and tenodesis was performed in 19 patients (group 2). The mean age was 51.0 ± 3.7 years and 53.1 ± 4.6 years in group 1 and group 2, respectively. All patients were operated on by the same surgeon in the first 5 days after injury and one type of prosthesis was used. The shoulder was immobilised for 4 weeks before performing the same physiotherapy protocol. Pain and range of motion were assessed by a blinded observer. RESULTS: Patients were followed up for a mean of 25.1 ± 3.9 months in group 1 and 22.6 ± 3.6 months in group 2. They were evaluated using the Constant score; it had a mean of 69.8 ± 6.6 for group 1 and a mean of 74.4 ± 6.5 points for group 2 (p = 0.04). Shoulder pain affected six patients in group 1 (33.3%) and only affected three patients in group 2 (15.8%) (p = 0.03). There was no significant difference in active anterior elevation of the shoulder between both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained support the hypothesis to routinely perform a tenodesis of the LHB during hemiarthroplasty for treatment of fractures of the proximal humerus to improve pain and have better results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I therapeutic.

Four-part fracture dislocations of the proximal humerus in young adults: results of fixation.

INTRODUCTION: Four-part fracture dislocations of the proximal humerus occurring in young age are extremely difficult fractures with a high incidence of complications. The risk of avascular necrosis is high; hence, prosthetic replacement is the treatment of choice in older patients with these complex fractures; on the other hand, the longevity of the prosthesis is the main concern in young age. Thus, every effort should be made to fix these fractures in the young. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of fixation in a series of young patients with four-part fracture dislocations; to support the trend to fix these fractures; and reserve prosthetic replacement to older patients. METHODS: In a prospective study, 39 patients younger than 40 years of age with four-part fracture dislocations were treated with open reduction and fixation either with K-wires or with a proximal humerus plate. Ethibond sutures were used in all patients to supplement fixation of tuberosities. In 18 patients, the dislocation was anterior and in 21 patients it was posterior. Twelve patients had an anatomic neck fracture and 27 had a surgical neck fracture. Surgery was performed within 1 week after the injury. Physiotherapy was initiated according to the general condition of the patient and the stability of fixation; the average time was 5 days after surgery. RESULTS: Patients were followed up for an average of 26 months. Union was achieved in 36 patients and three patients had nonunion, all in anatomic neck fractures. Avascular necrosis developed in eight patients, seven of which were fractures of the anatomic neck and one was in the surgical neck. The average Constant score was 77; 26 patients were pain free, nine had mild pain and four had moderate pain. The mean active anterior elevation was 145°. Patients were divided into two groups based on the anatomic configuration of the fracture; in 12 patients (group 1), the head was fractured at the anatomical neck and in 27 patients (group 2), the head was fractured at the surgical neck. In group 2, the active anterior elevation was significantly better and the Constant score was higher. CONCLUSIONS: Anatomical reduction and rigid fixation with meticulous surgical technique can lead to satisfactory results. The results in surgical neck fractures are superior to anatomic neck fractures with significantly less complications.

Direct repair of spondylolysis presenting after correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Although spondylolysis is found in 6% of idiopathic scoliosis patients, very little was reported on management of pars defects in this group. These patients with painful spondylolysis are most eligible for direct repair of the defect rather than lumbosacral fusion in an attempt to save motion segments. PURPOSE: The aim of this work was to analyze the clinical and radiologic outcome of pars repair in a group of adolescents who presented after surgical correction of their idiopathic scoliosis. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective nonrandomized study. PATIENT SAMPLE: Ten consecutive patients with spondylolysis presenting after an average of 3 months (range, 2-7 months) from correction of their idiopathic scoliosis with low back pain not responding to conservative therapy and interfering with everyday activities. The mean age at operation was 16 years (range, 14-19 years). OUTCOME MEASURES: Total blood loss, operative time, and hospital stay were recorded. Clinical outcome was assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS), and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 questionnaire. Fusion of the pars interarticularis was assessed using plain, lateral, and oblique radiographs and a computed tomography (CT) scan. METHODS: The surgical technique consisted of thorough debridement of the defect, impacting the gap created with a tricortical iliac crest graft, and rigid fixation by either pedicle screws and a V-shaped rod (five patients) or a cable-screw construct (five patients). RESULTS: Patients were followed up for an average of 4.5 years (range, 2-7 years). Nine patients had a good-to-excellent result, returned to normal everyday life, and participated in sports when desired. The mean ODI, VAS, and SRS total scores were 11 (range, 0-34), 1.1 (range, 0-2), and 92 (range, 61-108), respectively. Follow-up radiographs and CT scans revealed healing of all defects in nine cases, no signs of disc degeneration in any, and no implant-related complications. CONCLUSIONS: The results of direct repair of spondylolysis in idiopathic scoliosis patients were very satisfactory both clinically and radiologically. Direct repair appears to be a logical alternative to spinal fusion; lumbar spine mobility was preserved, and precocious motion segments were saved with a relatively simple operation.

All pedicle screw instrumentation for Scheuermann's kyphosis correction: is it worth it?

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Scheuermann's kyphosis has long been treated by a two-staged fusion and instrumentation with a hybrid construct using hooks, pedicle screws, and sublaminar wires. Recent interest in all pedicle screw constructs led to its use in the treatment of Scheuermann's kyphosis. Evaluation of this newly described application is needed. PURPOSE: To compare the results of segmental all pedicle screw constructs versus two-staged hybrid instrumentation in patients with Scheuermann's kyphosis analyzing the amount of correction and incidence of complications. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series reporting on two groups of patients with Scheuermann's kyphosis treated with single-staged all pedicle screws technique versus two-staged anterior release and posterior hybrid instrumentation followed-up for a minimum of 2 years. PATIENT SAMPLE: The study included 33 patients divided into two groups. The average age was 15 years+9 months and 16 years+8 months, respectively. The average preoperative dorsal kyphosis was 85.5 degrees (Group 1) and 79.8 degrees (Group 2). OUTCOME MEASURES: The deformity was measured by Cobb's method preoperatively, postoperatively, and at final follow-up. Operative time and blood loss were also measured and recorded. The results of the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-30 questionnaire were also reviewed. METHODS: The study included 16 patients who underwent a single-staged correction by segmental all pedicle screw constructs and multiple-level posterior osteotomies (Group 1) and 17 who underwent a two-staged fusion and instrumentation with a hybrid construct (Group 2). RESULTS: Both groups were followed for a minimum of 2 years. The deformity correction of Group 1 had an average of 52.2% postoperatively with 2.4% loss at final follow-up in comparison to Group 2 where the correction was 48.7% postoperatively with 3.1% loss at final follow-up. The operative time was considerably less in Group 1 with an average of 215 minutes than Group 2 with an average of 315 minutes. The average blood loss was 620cc in Group 1 and 910cc in Group 2. The SRS-30 questionnaire in Group 1 averaged 134 and in Group 2 averaged 120. CONCLUSIONS: The use of multiple-level all pedicle screws technique allowed a rigid anchor for posterior correction of the deformity with less operative time, blood loss, and hospital stay without the need for anterior release. A better correction was achieved and preserved with the use of all pedicle screw constructs. This technique is a useful modality in the treatment of Scheuermann's kyphosis.