Aggressive vertebral hemangiomas contain no adipose tissue resulting in thoracic spine kyphosis: A case report.

RATIONALE: Aggressive vertebral hemangiomas (AVHs) destroy continuous vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs and resulting in spinal kyphosis is extremely rare. The very aggressive behavior was attributable to its significant vascular component and contained no adipose tissue. PATIENT CONCERNS: We report a case of thoracic spine kyphosis of AVHs with multiple vertebral bodies and intervertebral disc destruction in a 45-year-old woman. DIAGNOSES: Based on the imaging studies, the patient underwent surgical removal of this lesion and spinal reconstruction. Histopathology consistent with vertebral hemangioma and contained no adipose. INTERVENTIONS: The patient underwent surgical removal of the lesion and spinal reconstruction. After subperiosteal dissection of the paraspinal muscles and exposure of the laminae, the laminae of the T5-7 vertebrae were removed and exposing the lesion. The lesion was soft and showed cystic changes, completely curetted and autogenous bone was implanted. Vertebroplasty was performed through T3-T9 pedicles bilaterally. Pedicle screw fixation was performed for segmental fixation and fusion. OUTCOMES: After 9 days of operation, the incision healed cleanly and free of pain. She was discharged in good general condition. The patient remained asymptomatic after follow-up 6 months of postoperative. LESSONS: AVHs destroy multiple vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs and resulting in spinal kyphosis is extremely rare.

Percutaneous kyphoplasty through unilateral puncture on the convex side for the treatment of painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture with scoliosis.

PURPOSE: To assess the clinical safety, accuracy, and efficacy of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) surgery using an enhanced method of unilateral puncture on the convex side for the treatment of painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (P-OVCF) with scoliosis. METHODS: Clinical and radiographic data of P-OVCF patients with scoliosis who underwent PKP via unilateral puncture on the convex side from January 2018 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. This technique's detailed surgical steps and tips were described. The local kyphosis angle (LKA), scoliosis Cobb angle (SCA), and local scoliosis Cobb angle (LSCA) were measured using X-ray and compared at pre-operation, post-operation, and the last follow-up. The width of pedicle (POW), inner inclination angle (IIA), lateral distance (LD), and puncture course length (PCL) were measured on the axial computed tomography image and compared between two sides. Postoperative computed tomography was employed to evaluate the condition of cement distribution and puncture. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for back pain (BP). RESULTS: Thirty-six patients, 23 women and 13 men, with an average age of 76.31 ± 6.28 years were monitored for 17.69 ± 4.70 months. The median surgical duration of single vertebrae was 35 min. The volume of bone cement for single vertebrae was 3.81 ± 0.87 ml and the proportion of sufficient cement distribution of the patients was 97.22. LKA was considerably improved from pre-operation to post-operation and sustained at the last follow-up. SCA and LSCA were not significantly modified between these three-time points. IIA, PCL, and LD were lower on the convex side than on the concave side. POW was considerably wider on the convex side. The ODI and VAS-BP scores were significantly improved after surgery and sustained during the follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Combining with the proper assessment of the pre-injured life status of patients, PKP surgery using unilateral puncture on the convex side for the treatment of P-OVCF with scoliosis can achieve safe, excellent clinical, and radiographic outcomes.

Non-traumatic complete cervical spine dislocation with severe fixed kyphosis: successful multidisciplinary approach to a challenging case.

BACKGROUND: To our knowledge, there is no previous report in the literature of non-traumatic neglected complete cervical spine dislocation characterized by anterior spondyloptosis of C4, extreme head drop, and irreducible cervicothoracic kyphosis. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 33-year-old Caucasian man with a 17-year history of severe immune polymyositis and regular physiotherapy who presented with severe non-reducible kyphosis of the cervicothoracic junction and progressive tetraparesia for several weeks after a physiotherapy session. Radiographs, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a complete dislocation at the C4-C5 level, with C4 spondyloptosis, kyphotic angulation, spinal cord compression, and severe myelopathy. Due to recent worsening of neurological symptoms, an invasive treatment strategy was indicated. The patient's neurological status and spinal deformity greatly complicated the anesthetic and surgical management, which was planned after extensive multidisciplinary discussion and relied on close collaboration between the orthopedic surgeon and the anesthetist. Regarding anesthesia, difficult airway access was expected due to severe cervical angulation, limited mouth opening, and thyromental distance, with high risk of difficult ventilation and intubation. Patient management was further complicated by a theoretical risk of neurogenic shock, motor and sensory deterioration, instability due to position changes during surgery, and postoperative respiratory failure. Regarding surgery, a multistage approach was carefully planned. After a failed attempt at closed reduction, a three-stage surgical procedure was performed to reduce displacement and stabilize the spine, resulting in correct spinal realignment and fixation. Progressive complete neurological recovery was observed. CONCLUSION: This case illustrates the successful management of a critical situation based on a multidisciplinary collaboration involving radiologists, anesthesiologists, and spine surgeons.

Incidence and risk factors of proximal junctional kyphosis in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis after correction surgery: a meta-analysis and systematic review.

AIM: To analyze the risk factors of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) after correction surgery in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). METHODS: PubMed, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, and EMCC databases were searched for retrospective studies utilizing all AIS patients with PJK after corrective surgery to collect preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up imaging parameters, including thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), proximal junctional angle (PJA), the sagittal vertical axis (SVA), pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis (PI-LL), sacral slope (SS), rod contour angle (RCA) and upper instrumented vertebra (UIV). RESULTS: Nineteen retrospective studies were included in this meta-analysis, including 550 patients in the intervention group and 3456 patients in the control group. Overall, sex (OR 1.40, 95% CI (1.08, 1.83), P = 0.01), larger preoperative TK (WMD 6.82, 95% CI (5.48, 8.16), P < 0.00001), larger follow-up TK (WMD 8.96, 95% CI (5.62, 12.30), P < 0.00001), larger postoperative LL (WMD 2.31, 95% CI (0.91, 3.71), P = 0.001), larger follow-up LL (WMD 2.51, 95% CI (1.19, 3.84), P = 0.0002), great change in LL (WMD - 2.72, 95% CI (- 4.69, - 0.76), P = 0.006), larger postoperative PJA (WMD 4.94, 95% CI (3.62, 6.26), P < 0.00001), larger follow-up PJA (WMD 13.39, 95% CI (11.09, 15.69), P < 0.00001), larger postoperative PI-LL (WMD - 9.57, 95% CI (- 17.42, - 1.71), P = 0.02), larger follow-up PI-LL (WMD - 12.62, 95% CI (- 17.62, - 7.62), P < 0.00001), larger preoperative SVA (WMD 0.73, 95% CI (0.26, 1.19), P = 0.002), larger preoperative SS (WMD - 3.43, 95% CI (- 4.71, - 2.14), P < 0.00001), RCA (WMD 1.66, 95% CI (0.48, 2.84), P = 0.006) were identified as risk factors for PJK in patients with AIS. For patients with Lenke 5 AIS, larger preoperative TK (WMD 7.85, 95% CI (5.69, 10.00), P < 0.00001), larger postoperative TK (WMD 9.66, 95% CI (1.06, 18.26), P = 0.03, larger follow-up TK (WMD 11.92, 95% CI (6.99, 16.86), P < 0.00001, larger preoperative PJA (WMD 0.72, 95% CI (0.03, 1.41), P = 0.04, larger postoperative PJA (WMD 5.54, 95% CI (3.57, 7.52), P < 0.00001), larger follow-up PJA (WMD 12.42, 95% CI 9.24, 15.60), P < 0.00001, larger follow-up SVA (WMD 0.07, 95% CI (- 0.46, 0.60), P = 0.04), larger preoperative PT (WMD - 3.04, 95% CI (- 5.27, - 0.81), P = 0.008, larger follow-up PT (WMD - 3.69, 95% CI (- 6.66, - 0.72), P = 0.02) were identified as risk factors for PJK. CONCLUSION: Following corrective surgery, 19% of AIS patients experienced PJK, with Lenke 5 contributing to 25%. Prior and post-op measurements play significant roles in predicting PJK occurrence; thus, meticulous, personalized preoperative planning is crucial. This includes considering individualized treatments based on the Lenke classification as our future evaluation standard.

Simplified S1 vertebral bone quality score independently predicts proximal junctional kyphosis after surgery for degenerative lumbar scoliosis.

OBJECTIVE: Our study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the simplified S1 vertebral bone quality (VBQ) score in predicting the incidence of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) after surgery for degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS). METHODS: We reviewed 122 patients with DLS who underwent posterior lumbar decompression and long-segment fusion surgery in our hospital from January 2016 to December 2020. The patients were classified into PJK group and non-PJK group. S1 VBQ scores are determined by signal intensity measurements taken from the mid-sagittal plane of T1-weighted non-contrast MRI. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with PJK. Receiver-operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the value of S1 VBQ score in predicting pedicle PJK after DLS. RESULTS: 122 DLS patients (90 females and 32 males) met the inclusion criteria. In addition, 27 patients (22.13%) had PJK at the time of last follow-up. VBQ was higher in PJK patients than non-PJK patients (3.58 ± 0.67 vs. 3.08 ± 0.54, p < 0.001). Preoperatively, patients in the PJK group had a greater TLK than those in the non-PJK group (20.00 ± 6.22 vs. 16.86 ± 5.38, p = 0.011). After surgery, patients in the PJK group had greater TLK (p < 0.001) and PJA (p < 0.001) compared with the non-PJK group. At final FU, patients in the PJK group had greater TK (p = 0.002), TLK (p < 0.001), SVA (p < 0.001), and PJA (p < 0.001) than patients in the non-PJK group (Table 4). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, higher VBQ score (OR 4.565, 95% CI 1.43-14.568, p = 0.010), advanced age (OR 1.119, 95% CI 1.021-1.227, p = 0.016), and larger TLK (OR 1.191, 95% CI 1.041-1.362, p = 0.011) were significant predictors of postoperative PJK in patients with DLS (Table 6). A statistically significant positive correlation existed between VBQ score and PJA change (r = 0.370, p < 0.001). We created ROC curves for VBQ scores as predictors of PJK with a diagnostic accuracy of 72.1% (95% CI 60.15-82.9%.The ideal limit for the VBQ score was 3.205 (sensitivity: 77.8%, specificity: 81.4%). CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the effectiveness of the S1 VBQ score in predicting postoperative PJK in DLS. Our study included major risk factors and found that S1 VBQ score was a significant predictor of PJK in patients undergoing DLS surgery. The higher the S1 VBQ score, the higher the probability of PJK.

Transpedicular injection of rhBMP-2 with ß-tricalcium phosphate to reduce the proximal junctional kyphosis after adult spinal deformity correction: preliminary study.

The aim of this preliminary study was to assess the impact of injecting recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) with ß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) carrier into the uppermost instrumented vertebra (UIV) during surgery to prevent the development of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and proximal junctional failure (PJF). The 25 patients from study group had received 0.5 mg rhBMP-2 mixed with 1.5 g ß-TCP paste injection into the UIV during surgery. The control group consisted of 75 patients who underwent surgery immediately before the start of the study. The incidences of PJK and PJF were analyzed as primary outcomes. Spinopelvic parameters and patient-reported outcomes were analyzed as secondary outcomes. Hounsfield unit (HU) measurements were performed to confirm the effect of rhBMP-2 with ß-TCP on bone formation at preoperative and postoperative at computed tomography. PJK and PJF was more occurred in control group than study group (p = 0.02, 0.29, respectively). The HU of the UIV significantly increased 6 months after surgery. And the increment at the UIV was also significantly greater than that at the UIV-1 6 months after surgery. Injection of rhBMP-2 with ß-TCP into the UIV reduced PJK and PJF rates 6 months after surgery with new bone formation.

Spinal Manifestations of Skeletal Dysplasia: A Practical Guide for Clinical Diagnosis.

Skeletal dysplasias are a group of genetic conditions defined by atypical bone or cartilage growth and development. Skeletal abnormalities include short stature, limb deformity, joint contracture, and spinal deformity. Over 90% of disorders have a known genetic mutation that can definitively determine the diagnosis. As patients may present with a primary spinal concern, a careful clinical and radiographic evaluation can allow the physician to develop a working diagnosis to guide additional evaluation. Spinal manifestations include scoliosis and kyphoscoliosis, cervical instability, cervical kyphosis, thoracolumbar kyphosis, spinal stenosis, and atypical vertebral body morphology. An understanding of the affected conditions, prevalence, and natural history of these radiographic findings aids the orthopaedic surgeon in establishing a diagnosis and guides appropriate orthopaedic care.

Is the Child Opportunity Index a Factor in Surgical Outcomes for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?

BACKGROUND: Low socioeconomic status (SES) has been previously associated with delays in orthopaedic care. However, it is unclear how SES impacts patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), particularly regarding preoperative major coronal curve angle or surgical outcomes. Utilizing the Child Opportunity Index (COI)-an address-driven measure of pediatric education, health/environment, and SES-we investigated whether COI is associated with differences in preoperative scoliosis magnitude, age at surgery, and AIS surgical outcomes. METHODS: Consecutive patients with AIS surgically treated at a single center from 2011 to 2017 were reviewed. COI was calculated by inserting a patient's home address into the nationally available COI database to derive a COI value. COI is scored from 0.0 to 100.0 (0.0 is lowest, 100.0 is highest). Specifically, COI is categorized as very low (<20.0), low (20 to 39.9), moderate (40 to 59.9), high (60 to 79.9), and very high (≥80). Those without addresses were excluded. Patients without proper radiographs to assess curve correction were also excluded. A COI threshold of 60.0 was used to separate patients into a low (<60.0) or high COI ( ) group based on published COI guidelines. Outcomes, including preoperative curve magnitude, age at surgery, percentage curve correction, operative time (OT), intraoperative estimated blood loss per level fused, length of stay, and complications, were compared across groups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess correlations between COI and preoperative curve magnitude, as well as age. RESULTS: Four hundred four patients were included in the study, and 263 had 2-year follow-up data. Patients were an average age of 14.9 years old (range: 11.2 to 19.8), had a median COI of 76 (range: 4 to 100), and had a mean preoperative major curve angle of 59 degrees (range: 36 to 93). COI was significantly higher for white patients compared with non-white (80.0 vs 40.0, P < 0.001), and higher for non-Hispanic individuals (79.0 vs 15.0, P < 0.001). Patients with Low COI were associated with a lower OT per level fused ( P = 0.003) and decreased postoperative complication risk ( P = 0.02). COI was not associated with preoperative major coronal curve angle, age at surgery, or any other surgical outcomes. CONCLUSION: COI was significantly lower for non-white patients and those of Hispanic ethnicity. Patients from low COI backgrounds achieved similar surgical results as those from high COI addresses and had a decreased OT per level fused and complication incidence, though the clinical significance of these differences is unknown. Future prospective studies are needed to determine whether these findings are reproducible across other states and health systems. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-prognostic study.

Adult versus adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery: a meta-analysis of clinical and radiographic outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: While the natural history of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and adult idiopathic scoliosis (AdIS) is well documented in the literature, the impact of age on postoperative outcomes remains an active area of research. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare patients undergoing surgery for AIS and AdIS with respect to: (1) postoperative Cobb correction, (2) perioperative variables, and (3) postoperative complications. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in accordance with preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. INCLUSION CRITERIA: studies published between 2002 and 2022, retrospective, and comparing AIS vs. AdIS patients undergoing deformity surgery. The primary outcome was postoperative Cobb correction. Secondary outcomes included estimated blood loss (EBL), operative time, total instrumented levels, length of stay (LOS), and postoperative complications. Random-effects models were performed according to the method of DerSimonian and Laird. RESULTS: Of 190 identified articles, 14 fit the inclusion criteria. A total of 1788 patients were included, 1275(71.3%) with AIS, and 513(28.7%) with AdIS. There was a significant age difference between AIS and AdIS (15.3 vs. 36.7 years, mean difference (MD) = 21.3 years, 95%CI = 14.3-28.4,p < 0.001). Mean postoperative Cobb percentage correction was reported in 5 articles and was significantly higher in AIS (68.4%) vs. AdIS (61.4%) (MD = -7.2, 95%CI = -11.6,-2.7,p = 0.001). EBL was not significantly different between AIS and AdIS (695.6 mL vs 817.7 mL,p = 0.204). Furthermore, no difference was found in operative time (MD = 37.9 min,95%CI = -10.7;86.6,p = 0.127), total instrumented level (MD = 0.88,95%CI = -0.7,2.4,p = 0.273), and LOS (MD = 0.5, 95%CI = -0.2;1.2, p = 0.188). Four articles reported postoperative complications in AIS vs AdIS, with no difference in neurological deficit, instrumentation-related complications, and medical complications. CONCLUSION: AIS patients had better radiographic correction compared to AdIS. Though no difference was found in perioperative outcomes and complications, these findings emphasize the importance of counseling patients regarding the optimal timing of surgical correction.

T1 Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy With Subaxial Cervical Pedicle Screw Fixation.

Patients suffering from ankylosing spondylitis are not only predisposed to the development of rigid cervicothoracic deformities but are also at an increased risk of cervical fractures. Deformity correction and stabilization are particularly challenging in this patient population due to the brittle bone quality and low bone mineral density. Thoracic pedicle subtraction osteotomy is a workhorse approach for the correction of focal severe kyphotic deformity with lower complication rates than 3-column osteotomy. Successful execution of an upper thoracic PSO requires careful presurgical planning as well as anticipation of the patient's postoperative needs. Here, we describe the use of a T1 PSO in the correction of a rigid cervicothoracic chin-on-chest deformity in a patient with AS. The risk of implant failure was reduced by the use of a multi-rod construct, navigated cervical pedicle screws, and dual-pitched thoracic pedicle screws.

Distal Junctional Failures in Degenerative Thoracolumbar Hyperkyphosis.

OBJECTIVE: Degenerative thoracolumbar hyperkyphosis (DTH) is a disease that negatively affects individual health and requires surgical intervention, yet the ideal surgical approach and complications, especially distal junctional failures (DJF), remain poorly understood. This study aims to investigate DJF in DTH and to identify the risk factors for DJF so that we can improve surgical decision-making, and advance our knowledge in the field of spinal surgery to enhance patient outcomes. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed 78 cases (late osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture [OVCF], 51; Scheuermann's kyphosis [SK], 17; and degenerative disc diseases [DDD], 10) who underwent corrective surgery in our institute from 2008 to 2019. Clinical outcomes were assessed using health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures, including the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for back and leg pain, the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scoring system. Multiple radiographic parameters, such as global kyphosis (GK) and thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), were assessed to determine radiographic outcomes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the risk factors associated with DJF. RESULTS: HRQOL improved, and GK, TLK decreased at the final follow-up, with a correction rate of 67.7% and 68.5%, respectively. DJF was found in 13 of 78 cases (16.7%), two cases had wedging in the disc (L3-4) below the instrumentation, one case had a fracture of the lowest instrumented vertebrae (LIV), one case had osteoporotic fracture below the fixation, nine cases had pull-out or loosening of the screws at the LIV and three cases (23.1%) required revision surgery. The DJF group had older age, lower computed tomography Hounsfield unit (CT HU), longer follow-up, more blood loss, greater preoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA), and poorer postoperative JOA and VAS scores (back). The change in TLK level was larger in the non-DJF group. Post-sagittal stable vertebrae (SSV) moved cranially compared with pre-SSV. CONCLUSION: Age, CT HU, length of follow-up, estimated blood loss, and preoperative SVA were independent risk factors for DJF. We recommend fixation of the two vertebrae below the apex vertebrae for DTH to minimize surgical trauma.

Prevalence, Features, and Predictive Factors of Spontaneous Spinal Arthrodesis in Posttraumatic Thoracolumbar Kyphosis.

OBJECTIVE: Spontaneous spinal arthrodesis (SSA) is a phenomenon of spontaneous fusion, and SSA is not rare in posttraumatic thoracolumbar kyphosis (PTK). However, few reports have focused on SSA in patients with PTK. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence, features, and predictive factors of SSA in patients with PTK. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 70 patients with PTK were included. Data on the clinical and radiologic parameters were obtained and evaluated. According to whether there was SSA or not, patients were divided into an SSA group (n = 45) or a non-SSA group (n = 25). A binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictive factors for SSA. RESULTS: The incidence of SSA in PTK was 64%. Among 45 patients with PTK with SSA, SSA was present as a solid bridging anterior osteophyte along the vertebral bodies in 11 patients, posterior contiguous bony growth through the facet joints bilaterally in 13 patients, bony formation in both anterior and posterior elements in 18 patients, and direct contiguous bony formation from the injured vertebral body to the adjacent one in 3 patients. Patients with longer disease duration, larger local Cobb angle, and anterior wall height loss (AWHL) ratio of injured vertebral body, and less kyphosis flexibility index were significantly more likely to develop SSA. The parameter of AWHL remained significant in binary logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: SSA in PTK was common, and the SSA sign presented in various patterns, which might have implications for surgical decisions. AWHL was the independent predictor for SSA.

Morphological analysis of isolated hemivertebra: radiographic manifestations related to the severity of congenital scoliosis.

PURPOSE: The natural history of congenital scoliosis (CS) caused by hemivertebra varies greatly. This study aimed to explore the association between the morphology of hemivertebra and the severity of CS, since the diagnosis of the hemivertebra. METHODS: Patients with isolated (single fully segmented) hemivertebra were enrolled. The degree and progression of deformity were compared by three morphological parameters of hemivertebra, comprising whether the width of hemivertebra extends across the central vertical line of lower adjacent vertebra (midline); the lateral height ratio (LHR, lateral height of hemivertebra× 2/(lateral height of HV-1 plus HV + 1) with the cut-point being 0.9; and the sagittal position of hemivertebra that was divided into the lateral and posterolateral group. RESULTS: In total, 156 patients (mean age 9.7 ± 6.2 years, 81 males) were enrolled. The number of thoracic, thoracolumbar (T12/13-L1), and lumbar hemivertebrae were 63, 41, and 52, respectively. Hemivertebrae across the midline had larger scoliosis and kyphosis (58.3 ± 20.6° vs. 42.8 ± 15.0°, P <  0.001; 45.1 ± 32.5° vs. 29.5 ± 25.7°, P = 0.013, respectively). Hemivertebrae with LHR ≥0.9 was associated with larger scoliosis (55.7 ± 20.6° vs. 41.4 ± 13.3°, P <  0.001). Larger scoliosis and kyphosis were observed in posterolateral hemivertebrae (54.4 ± 21.0° vs. 44.4 ± 15.6°, P = 0.026; 51.4 ± 31.5° vs. 20.6 ± 17.1°, P <  0.001, respectively). Co-occurrence of more than one of the three positive parameters above indicated higher annual progression (5.0 ± 2.2° vs. 3.3 ± 1.3°, P <  0.001). CONCLUSION: Three positive parameters, width across the midline, LHR ≥0.9, and posterolateral position were associated with a more severe deformity in patients with isolated hemivertebra. Hemivertebrae with more than one positive parameter may cause progressive deformity, and thus need prompt surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic, level IV.

Kyphectomy and sliding growing rod technique in patients with congenital lumbar kyphosis deformity with myelomeningocele.

OBJECTIVE: Neural tube defects are the most common congenital disorders after cardiac anomalies. Lumbar kyphosis deformity is observed in 8-15% of these patients. This deformity severely limits the daily lives of these patients. In our study, we aimed to correct the kyphosis angle of the patients with lumbar kyphosis associated with myelomeningocele (MMC) and allow them to continue their growth without limiting their lung capacity by applying kyphectomy and sliding growing rod technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this study, we retrospectively evaluated 24 patients with congenital lumbar kyphosis deformity associated with MMC, aged between 4 and 9 years, and who applied to Umraniye Training and Research Hospital between the dates of 2018 and 2021. We evaluated preoperative and postoperative kyphosis angles, correction rates, bleeding during operations, operation time, level of instrumentation, number of the resected vertebrae, initial levels of the posterior defects, duration of hospital stays, annual lengthening, and weight of the patients. RESULTS: Mean age was 5.04 (between 4 and 9). Mean preoperative and early postoperative kyphosis angles were 129.8° (87-175°) and 0.79° (- 20-24°), respectively. The kyphotic deformity correction rate was 99.1%. A difference was found regarding kyphosis measurements between preoperative and early period values (p < 0.05). The annual height lengthening of patients was calculated as 0.74 cm/year and 0.77 cm/year between T1-T12 and T1-S1, respectively. Mean preoperative level of hemoglobin (Hgb) was 11.95, postoperative Hgb value was 10.02, and the decrease was significant (p < 0.05). In terms of complications, 50% (12) had broken/loosen screws, 50% (12) had undergone debridement surgery, 37.5% (9) had vacuum-assisted closure therapy, and 33.3% (8) had to get all of their implants removed. CONCLUSION: We believe that our sliding growing rod technique is a new and updated surgical method that can be applied in these patient groups, facilitating the life, rehabilitation process, and daily care of MMC patients with lumbar kyphosis. This technique seems to be a safe and reliable method which preserves lung capacity and allows lengthening.

Correction of pediatric cervical kyphosis: our experience and systematic-literature review.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric cervical kyphosis is a distinct entity with diverse etiology (congenital, syndromic, traumatic, metabolic or neoplastic). Surgical correction in pediatric population is challenging due to their growing spine and low blood volume. PURPOSE: To analyse their presentation, surgical techniques and outcome of pediatric cervical kyphosis and systematically review the pertinent literature. DESIGN: Retrospective study. PATIENT SAMPLE: 16 patients aged ≤ 18 years who underwent correction for cervical kyphosis between 2009 and 2021. OUTCOME MEASURES: Nurick's grading, mJOA score and Global cobb's angle. METHODS: Clinical parameters (Nurick grading and mJOA score) were noted from database on admission and on follow-up at 6 months. Radiological parameters of assessment included Global Cobb's angle. The C2-C7 Cobb angle was the angle of C2 vertebra lower end plate and C7 vertebra lower end plate. For C1-2 kyphosis, anterior border of C1 and anterior border of C2 angle was taken. Radiographic parameters were studied on CT and radiographs of cervical spine to assess for stability, the degree of deformity correction and fusion status at 6 months follow-up. RESULTS: 16 patients with mean age of 14.2 ± 3 years (9 syndromic, 4 post-traumatic, 2 metabolic and 1 post-laminectomy). All underwent surgical correction, 6 underwent Antero-posterior spinal fusion, 6 underwent Posterior spinal fusion and 4 underwent Anterior spinal fusion. There was significant clinical improvement postoperatively with-Nurick grade (pre vs. post: 2.8 vs. 1.8, p = 0.004), mJOA score (pre vs. post: 11.3 vs. 14, p = 0.003). There was significant deformity correction of Cobb's angle from 40.7 ± 26.5° to 14.9 ± 10° (p = 0.001). Early complications included intraoperative hemodynamic instability (3) and wound complication (1). Mean follow-up was 76.9 ± 59.3 months. CONCLUSION: Pediatric cervical kyphosis is a debilitating condition which are managed surgically. Approach has to be individualized to the pathology and good results can be achieved. Patients should be screened for syndromic association and followed-up regularly.

Clinical Observation of Posterior Approach for Surgical Treatment of Thoracolumbar Pseudarthrosis in Ankylosing Spinal Disorders.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the surgical effectiveness of posterior procedure with long segment stabilization for treating thoracolumbar pseudarthrosis associated with ankylosing spinal disorders (ASDs) without anterior fusion or osteotomy. METHODS: Twelve patients with thoracolumbar pseudarthrosis in ASD were enrolled. All patients underwent posterior long-segment stabilization procedures. In some patients, the percutaneous technique or the aid of a robot or O-arm navigation was utilized for pedicle screw implantation. The clinical results were evaluated by means of the visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index. Radiological outcomes were evaluated for bone fusion, anterior column defect, local kyphotic correction, and position of the pedicle screws. RESULTS: All patients experienced effective bone fusion at the sites of pseudarthrosis. The mean operative time was 161.7 ± 57.1 minutes, and the average amount of blood loss was 305.8 ± 293.2 mL. For 6 patients who underwent surgery with the assistance of a robot or O-arm navigation, there was no statistically significant difference observed in terms of operative time and mean blood loss compared to those who used the freehand technique (P > 0.05). The visual analog scale score, Oswestry Disability Index value, and mean local kyphotic angle showed significant improvements at the final follow-up (P < 0.05). The accuracy of pedicle screw placement was 96%. CONCLUSIONS: Posterior surgery with long-segment fixation, without anterior fusion or osteotomy, can achieve satisfactory outcomes in ASD patients with thoracolumbar pseudarthrosis. The application of percutaneous techniques, as well as the assistance of robots or navigation technique may be a good choice for the treatment of pseudarthrosis in ASD patients.

Usefulness of the preoperative thoracic inlet angle in comparison to the T1 slope for predicting cervical kyphosis after laminoplasty.

PURPOSE: Thoracic inlet angle (TIA) is a sagittal radiographic parameter with a constant value regardless of posture and is significantly correlated with the sagittal balance of the cervical spine. However, the practical use of TIA has not been studied. This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of the preoperative TIA for predicting the development of kyphotic deformity after cervical laminoplasty in comparison to the preoperative T1 slope (T1S). METHODS: A total of 98 patients who underwent cervical laminoplasty without preoperative kyphotic alignment were included (mean age, 73.7 years; 41.8% female). Radiography was evaluated before surgery and at the 2-year follow-up examination. The cervical sagittal parameters were measured on standing radiographs, and the TIA was measured on T2-weighted MRI in a supine position. Cervical alignment with a C2-C7 angle of ≥ 0° was defined as lordosis, and that with an angle of < 0° was defined as kyphosis. RESULTS: Postoperative kyphosis occurred in 11 patients (11.2%). Preoperatively, the kyphosis group showed significantly lower values in the T1S (23.5° vs. 30.3°, p = 0.034) and TIA (76.1° vs. 81.8°, p = 0.042). We performed ROC curve analysis to clarify the impact of the preoperative TIA and T1S on kyphotic deformity after laminoplasty. The optimal cutoff angles for TIA and T1S were 68° and 19°, respectively, with similar diagnostic accuracy. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the clinical utility of the preoperative TIA for predicting the risk of postoperative kyphotic deformity after cervical laminoplasty. These findings suggest the importance of the preoperative assessment of thoracic inlet alignment in cervical spine surgery.

A new mathematical model for evaluating surface changes in the mid-abdominal sagittal plane after two-level pedicle reduction osteotomy in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to create a mathematical model to precalculate the acreage change in the abdominal median sagittal plane (ac-AMSP) of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) for whom two-level pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) was planned. METHODS: A single-centre retrospective review of prospectively collected data was conducted among 11 adults with AS. Acreage of the abdominal median sagittal plane (a-AMSP) was performed. The distances and angles between the osteotomy apexes, anterosuperior edge of T12, xiphoid process, superior edge of the pubis, and anterosuperior corner of the sacrum were measured on preoperative thoracolumbar computed tomography. A mathematical model was created using basic trigonometric functions in accordance with the abdominal parameters. Planned osteotomized vertebra angles (POVAs) were substituted into the mathematical model, and the predictive ac-AMSP (P-AC) was obtained. A paired sample t test was performed to determine the differences between the P-AC and actual ac-AMSP (A-AC) and between the predictive acreage change rate (P-CR) and actual acreage change rate (A-CR). RESULTS: The mean age and GK were 44.4 ± 8.99 years and 102.9° ± 19.17°, respectively. No significant difference exists between A-CR and P-CR via mathematical modeling (p > 0.05). No statistically significant difference existed between POVA and actual osteotomized vertebra angles (AOVA) (p > 0.05). A statistically significant difference was observed between preoperative and postoperative measurements of LL, SVA, and GK variables (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The novel mathematical model was reliable in predicting the ac-AMSP in AS patients undergoing two-level PSO.