[Surgical Treatment of Degenerative Lumbar Stenosis and Spondylolisthesis: Clinical Practice Guideline]. / Chirurgická lécba degenerativní lumbální stenózy a spondylolistézy: klinický doporucený postup.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY This article presents the evidence and the rationale for the recommendations for surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar stenosis (DLS) and spondylolisthesis that were recently developed as a part of the Czech Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) "The Surgical Treatment of the Degenerative Diseases of the Spine". MATERIAL AND METHODS The Guideline was drawn up in line with the Czech National Methodology of the CPG Development, which is based on the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. We used an innovative GRADE-adolopment method that combines adoption and adaptation of the existing guidelines with de novo development of recommendations. In this paper, we present three adapted recommendations on DLS and a recommendation on spondylolisthesis developed de novo by the Czech team. RESULTS Open surgical decompression in DLS patients has been evaluated in three randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A recommendation in favour of decompression was made based on a statistically significant and clinically evident improvement in the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and leg pain. Decompression may be recommended for patients with symptoms of DLS in the event of correlation of significant physical limitation and the finding obtained via imaging. The authors of a systematic review of observational studies and one RCT conclude that fusion has a negligible role in the case of a simple DLS. Thus, spondylodesis should only be chosen as an adjunct to decompression in selected DLS patients. Two RCTs compared supervised rehabilitation with home or no exercise, showing no statistically significant difference between the procedures. The guideline group considers the post-surgery physical activity beneficial and suggests supervised rehabilitation in patients who have undergone surgery for DLS for the beneficial effects of exercise in the absence of known adverse effects. Four RCTs were found comparing simple decompression and decompression with fusion in patients with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. None of the outcomes showed clinically significant improvement or deterioration in favour of either intervention. The guideline group concluded that for stable spondylolisthesis the results of both methods are comparable and, when other parameters are considered (balance of benefits and risks, or costs), point in favour of simple decompression. Due to the lack of scientific evidence, no recommendation has been formulated regarding unstable spondylolisthesis. The certainty of the evidence was rated as low for all recommendations. DISCUSSION Despite the unclear definition of stable/unstable slip, the inclusion of apparently unstable cases of DS in stable studies limits the conclusions of the studies. Based on the available literature, however, it can be summarized that in simple degenerative lumbar stenosis and static spondylolisthesis, fusion of the given segment is not justified. However, its use in the case of unstable (dynamic) vertebral slip is undisputable for the time being. CONCLUSIONS The guideline development group suggests decompression in patients with DLS in whom previous conservative treatment did not lead to improvement, spondylodesis only in selected patients, and post-surgical supervised rehabilitation. In patients with degenerative lumbar stenosis and spondylolisthesis with no signs of instability, the guideline development group suggests simple decompression (without fusion). Key words: degenerative lumbar stenosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, spinal fusion, Clinical Practice Guideline, GRADE, adolopment.

[Comparison of Clinical Outcomes of Displaced Diaphyseal Clavicle Fractures]. / Porovnání klinických výsledku lécení dislokovaných zlomenin diafýzy klícní kosti.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the subjective evaluation of treatment by patients with respect to their return to work and recreational sport following the fracture of clavicle diaphysis with posttraumatic shortening of 1.5 cm, or more, treated non-operatively and surgically. MATERIAL AND METHODS Our group of patients consisted of 51 patients (14 females, 37 males) aged between 18 and 89 years (average age 46 years). We concentrated on the parameters of sex, age, side of injury, extent of posttraumatic shortening, method of treatment, return to work or recreational sport, DASH score at one year post non-operative or surgical treatment. Patients who sustained a pathological fracture, fractures of the clavicle combined with an injury of the acromioclavicular joint or simultaneous fracture of the humerus or the ribs were excluded from the study. Patients with open fractures or re-fractures were excluded as well. The indication for treatment selection was based on pre-operative discussion of the doctor with the patient and the Informed Consent was signed. The patient was informed about different treatment options. A shorter period of fixation of the arm and post-operative physiotherapy was mentioned in connection with surgical treatment as well as potential surgical complications. A statistical analysis comparing the data in both groups was conducted using the Fisher exact test. The p-value of 0.05 or less was considered as statistically significant. RESULTS The right side was affected 26 times, the left side 25 times. The shortening ranged from 1.5 to 3.7 cm. 24 patients (8 females, 16 males) aged 21 to 89 years (average 54 years) were treated non-operatively. 27 patients (6 females, 21 males) aged 18 to 74 years (average 38 years) underwent surgery. The difference in sex distribution in both groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.5311). According to the Robinson classification, there were 17 patients with type 2A2 fractures, of whom 8 underwent surgery and 9 were treated non-operatively, 19 patients with type 2B1 fractures, of whom 9 underwent surgery and 10 were treated non-operatively, and 15 patients with type 2B2, of whom 10 underwent surgery and 5 were treated non-operatively. The surgically treated patients prevailed in type 2B2 only, but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.2350). In the non-operatively treated group, 23 out of 24 patients returned to pre-injury activities in 3 months on average. Ten patients (48%) reported reaching the same function as on the other side. In the DASH score evaluation, 11 patients reached the value of 0-3.3, five patients 3.4-10, six patients 10.1-30.0 and two reached the score of more than 30. In the evaluation of capacity to work, 15 out of 24 patients were able to work, 11 of them without any restrictions or difficulties. In the evaluation of the sport and playing musical instrument module, 9 out of 24 patients did not engage in sports activities or do not play any musical instruments. In the surgically treated group, 26 out of 27 patients returned to pre-injury activities within 6 weeks. 19 (70%) patients reported reaching the same function as on the other side. In the DASH score evaluation, 19 patients reached the value of 0-3.3, two patients 3.4-10, 5 patients 10.1-30.0 and one patient with nonunion 72.5. Comparison of the average values of the DASH score demonstrated slightly better results achieved by surgical treatment (9.03 vs 6.77). When assessing the work module, 24 out of 27 patients returned to work, 20 of them without any restrictions or difficulties. Out of 27 patients, 4 patients were no longer able to engage in sports activities or to play a musical instrument. Of the 23 remaining patients, 18 did not have any problems, 5 suffered from minimal problems. The group of patients treated non-operatively included one case of non-union and the same applies to the surgically treated group. In 3 patients the removal of hardware was performed, 3 patients underwent revision of the surgical wound because of infection. DISCUSSION The recommendation of the weight-bearing of the upper extremity was similar in both groups, 12 weeks post injury/surgery on average. It is clear that sooner return to work or sports activities in the surgically treated group was preferred by younger patients who expected quicker recovery. Younger patients were less patient and more eager to return to work and sports, while the older patients, on the other hand, were more cautious about possible complications of surgery. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study did not identify any correlation between the clavicle shortening and the indication for surgical treatment. Surgical treatment was preferred by younger patients, more frequently by males. The rationale was supported by the perspective of sooner return to work and favourite sports activities. Their decision was not affected by the known risks of surgical treatment. Evaluation of the DASH score at one year after injury/surgery showed similar results. A higher incidence of complications in the surgically treated group did not lead to negative evaluation of the selected treatment modality by the highly motivated group of patients either. Key words: fractures of the clavicle diaphysis, non-operative treatment, surgical treatment, return to work, return to sports activities, functional results at 1 year.

Cervical arthroplasty in a professional kick-boxing fighter, 7 years follow-up.

Spinal surgery in professional athletes is a topic of much discussion. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the standard procedure used by surgeons, and other techniques used to treat athletes includes foraminotomies, laminoplasties and total disc replacement. Total disc replacement is an unusual technique used to treat athletes in general and is becoming a more important issue in full contact sports. This case report illustrates a 34 years old professional fighter that suffered a cervical injury that evolved with cervical axial pain and irradiated pain and numbness. She was submitted to total disc replacement (TDR) at the C5-6 level, returning to competitive sports after and with a seven-year follow-up. To the date she remains symptom free and besides having an anterior foramen, the spine was able to keep movement at that level. TDR may be a safe and trustworthy technique when treating elite athletes.

La cirugía de columna en atletas profesionales es un tema de mucha discusión. La discectomía y fusión cervical anterior es el procedimiento estándar utilizado por los cirujanos, y otras técnicas utilizadas para tratar a los atletas incluyen foraminotomías, laminoplastías y reemplazo total de disco. El reemplazo total del disco es una técnica inusual utilizada para tratar a los atletas en general y se está convirtiendo en un tema más importante en los deportes de contacto completo. Este informe de caso ilustra a una luchadora profesional de 34 años que sufrió una lesión cervical que evolucionó con dolor axial cervical y dolor irradiado y entumecimiento. Fue sometida a colocación de prótesis de disco en el nivel C5-6, regresando a los deportes competitivos y con un seguimiento de siete años. Hasta la fecha permanece libre de síntomas y además de tener un foramen anterior, la columna vertebral fue capaz de mantener el movimiento a ese nivel. La cirugía puede ser una técnica segura y confiable cuando se trata a atletas de élite.

Cervical arthroplasty in a professional kick-boxing fighter, 7 years follow-up / Artroplastia cervical en un luchador profesional de kick-boxing, 7 años de seguimiento

Abstract: Spinal surgery in professional athletes is a topic of much discussion. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the standard procedure used by surgeons, and other techniques used to treat athletes includes foraminotomies, laminoplasties and total disc replacement. Total disc replacement is an unusual technique used to treat athletes in general and is becoming a more important issue in full contact sports. This case report illustrates a 34 years old professional fighter that suffered a cervical injury that evolved with cervical axial pain and irradiated pain and numbness. She was submitted to total disc replacement (TDR) at the C5-6 level, returning to competitive sports after and with a seven-year follow-up. To the date she remains symptom free and besides having an anterior foramen, the spine was able to keep movement at that level. TDR may be a safe and trustworthy technique when treating elite athletes.

Resumen: La cirugía de columna en atletas profesionales es un tema de mucha discusión. La discectomía y fusión cervical anterior es el procedimiento estándar utilizado por los cirujanos, y otras técnicas utilizadas para tratar a los atletas incluyen foraminotomías, laminoplastías y reemplazo total de disco. El reemplazo total del disco es una técnica inusual utilizada para tratar a los atletas en general y se está convirtiendo en un tema más importante en los deportes de contacto completo. Este informe de caso ilustra a una luchadora profesional de 34 años que sufrió una lesión cervical que evolucionó con dolor axial cervical y dolor irradiado y entumecimiento. Fue sometida a colocación de prótesis de disco en el nivel C5-6, regresando a los deportes competitivos y con un seguimiento de siete años. Hasta la fecha permanece libre de síntomas y además de tener un foramen anterior, la columna vertebral fue capaz de mantener el movimiento a ese nivel. La cirugía puede ser una técnica segura y confiable cuando se trata a atletas de élite.

Clinical and Radiological Review of a Semi-Constrained Cervical Disc Replacement with a Ceramic-Ceramic Articulation with a Minimum Seven Years Follow-Up.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Artificial cervical disc replacement (CDR) has emerged as a viable treatment alternative to fusion for the management of symptomatic compressive radiculopathy and potentially for cervical myelopathy. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients treated with a second generation semi-constrained CDR with a ceramicceramic articulation. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective cohort study of all patients undergoing a cervical disc replacement for cervical disc pathology, during the period from April 2007 to April 2011 using a ceramic-ceramic disc replacement comprised the study group. 52 patients were available for final clinical and radiological follow-up. Both, clinical and radiological evaluation were performed at each clinical visit at 6 weeks, 6 months, 12 months, 2 years, 5 years and 7 years. RESULTS There were a total of 52 patients, with 44 single level cases and 8 two level cases. The NDI improved significantly (p < 0.05) from a mean preoperative score of 56 % to a score of 20% at final follow-up. The mean preoperative mobility at the index level unit was 12.2 ± 4.5°, this decreased to 7.9 ± 3.2° at six weeks, but slightly increased to 12.9 ± 2.9° at final follow-up (gain not significant). Heterotrophic ossification (HO) was noted in 13 (25%) patients. CONCLUSIONS Cervical disc replacement with a ceramic-ceramic bearing surface is a viable option in the treatment of variety of cervical pathologies. This ceramic-ceramic interface may eliminate the potential problems of metallosis and poly-wear but further longer-term results should be studied. Key words: Cervical spine; disc replacement; ceramic articulation; neck disability; heterotrophic ossification.

Creatine Kinase and Myoglobin Levels as Indicators of Perioperative Muscle Damage during Open- and Mini-Invasive Stabilization of Thoracic and Lumbar Spine Fracture - a Prospective Randomized Study.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY In this randomized prospective study, we monitored and compared perioperative changes in skeletal muscle enzymes blood levels in open and mini-invasive stabilization of thoracolumbar spine fractures. The established hypothesis was to confirm higher blood levels of muscle enzymes in open stabilization. MATERIAL AND METHODS This study included 38 patients with the mean age of 46.4 years. 19 injuries were managed in an open procedure and 19 procedures were mini-invasive. Venous blood was taken intermittently at short intervals to determine the levels of skeletal muscle enzymes. The catalytic concentration of creatine kinase was determined via an enzymatic UV-test, and the concentration of myoglobin via electro-chemiluminescent immunoassay. Enzyme levels were processed statistically. The Wilcoxon test was used. RESULTS The median increase in the values of both enzymes is higher in the mini-invasive method than in the open method in both the surgery phase for the injury and in the extraction phase. The median increase in the values of both enzymes is higher in both methods for the primary procedure phase compared to the extraction phase. All results are statistically significant at p of <0.05. All tests were calculated using the MATLAB Statistics Toolbox. DISCUSSION A very surprising finding, when testing the hypothesis of the levels increasing mainly in open stabilization, was confirming the opposite. Both enzymes were higher in the mini-invasive approach to stabilising the spine after the injury, but also after the extraction. This contradicts the available literature. However, this can be explained by the methodology of enzyme levels determination in the previously published studies. We believe that this phenomenon can be partially caused by an iatrogenic mini-compartment of muscles in the postoperative period, absence of wound drainage, but also by higher muscle contusion when inserting bolts through the tubes via small incisions, when the tubes penetrate to the entry points relatively violently and the muscles in this area are affected more than in the classical skeletization. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of biochemical changes in open and mini-invasive surgery did not confirm the hypothesis that levels of creatine kinase and myoglobin enzymes increase especially in open stabilization. On the contrary, they were statistically significantly higher in mini-invasive procedures. Key words: creatine kinase, myoglobin, muscle enzymes, spine fracture, spine surgery, miniinvasive surgery.

Kyphoplasty Augmentation in Thoracolumbar Spine - Clinical Outcomes after 2 Years.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY With the ageing of population the vertebral insufficiency fractures are increasing in number and occur ever more frequently. Symptomatic relief is often difficult to achieve by non-operative treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the level of pain relief and functional outcomes in patients who failed initial non-operative treatment and, because of persisting or growing symptoms, underwent kyphoplasty. MATERIAL AND METHODS Total number of 303 patients who underwent balloon kyphoplasty between January 2011 and December 2016 were included in our study. These 303 patients had 357 surgeries. This is a retrospective review of a prospectively updated database maintained by our spinal surgery department. In total, 575 levels were augmented. The patients were mostly females (246). The age of the patients ranged from 30 years to 98 years, with the mean age being 72.6 years. The average follow-up for our series was 17.2 months (2-63 months). Pain relief was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and functional outcome using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). RESULTS The average pre-operative VAS was 6.34 (p = 0.00003). At 6 weeks postoperatively the average VAS decreased to 3.80 (p = 0.00000). In our series, the VAS scores showed a progressive decline progressing from the mean value of 3.18 (p = 0.15890) at 1 year to the mean value of 2.85 (p = 0.00205) at 2 years. The average pre-operative ODI was 25.65 (p = 0.03604). At 6 weeks, the value improved to 17.69 (p = 0,00120) and further improvements were seen at 1 year (ODI 14.13) and at 2 years (ODI 12.08). In our series no clinically significant complications were reported. The social drift was observed in 17 patients in our study. DISCUSSION The pain relief and the improvement of functional outcomes were maintained even at a two-year follow-up. No clinically significant complications were reported that would require further surgical intervention and that would affect the good clinical results of our study. CONCLUSIONS Balloon kyphoplasty proved to be a safe surgical technique and should be considered in patients with an ongoing pain following vertebral insufficiency fractures that do not improve with the initial non-operative treatment. Cement augmentation significantly improves pain levels and as well functional status in elderly patients. Key words:cement augmentation, osteoporotic fracture, kyphoplasty, vertebroplasty, osteoporotic spine fracture.

A rare case of Paget's disease affecting the cervical spine.

We present the case of a 75-year-old man with a rapidly progressive cervical myelopathy on a background of a 3-year history of neck pain and a severely degenerative cervical spine. The patient developed progressive myelopathy over a six-month period and suffered from worsening kyphosis. Suspicion of an underlying oncological process prompted transfer to our tertiary referral unit. Biopsy was consistent for Paget's disease, an extremely rare diagnosis of the cervical spine. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed cord compression between C4 and C6 with associated cord signal change indicative of myelopathy. A three-level corpectomy and posterior instrumented fusion was performed. There was significant blood loss (3.5l) intraoperatively, consistent with a diagnosis of Paget's disease of the bone. Cell salvage was used, as was neuromonitoring for both the anterior and posterior part of the procedure. Postoperatively, neurological function improved slightly and the patient required community neurorehabilitation to allow independent living.

[Osteosynthesis of Clavicle Fractures - an Overview of Complications and Causes of Failure]. / Osteosyntéza klícní kosti ­ prehled komplikací a príciny selhání.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The study aimed to find out whether the higher rate of complications described in literature in the case of plate and intramedullary osteosynthesis of clavicle fractures is high enough to discredit one of these methods. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the period from July 2007 to March 2016, a total of 151 osteosyntheses of diaphyseal clavicle fractures were performed in 149 patients (106 men, 43 women). The plate as well as intramedullary techniques were used in this group of patients. The follow-up of 12 months was completed in 125 patients (91 men, 34 women). The age of patients ranged from 15 to 74 years. The postoperative rehabilitation with no load applied started immediately by elevating the arm up to 90 ° abduction for 3 weeks, which was followed by full range of motion exercises. The load was set based on the radiological finding. The number of complications, including the failure of osteosynthesis, was assessed. RESULTS Some kind of a whole range of complications (postoperative discomfort, infection, failure of osteosynthesis, non-union) occurred in 37 patients (29.6%), with osteosynthesis failing in six of them (4.8%), always within 6 months after the surgery. No later failure was reported. A statistically significant difference was observed only when comparing the patients discomfort for individual surgical techniques, with poorer results in case of intramedullary osteosynthesis. (p<0.001). DISCUSSION The dominance of "discomfort" in intramedullary fixation was caused by soft tissue irritation by the edge of material projecting thereto. Once it was removed, the results of both the methods in terms of the number of complications were comparable. In all the cases, either an incorrect indication of respective osteosynthesis techniques, or a technically poor surgical performance were identified as the likely causes of failure of the osteosynthesis. CONCLUSIONS The osteosynthesis always failed due to a wrong indication or technical errors in the execution of osteosynthesis. The intramedullary osteosynthesis is indicated in simple two-part fractures. The plate osteosynthesis can be applied to multiple fragment fractures. In preoperative planning, a suitable method shall be opted for based on the type of the fracture and the basic principles shall be adhered to during the surgery. Key words:clavicle fractures, surgical treatment, plate osteosynthesis, intramedullary osteosynthesis, osteosynthesis failure, non-union.

Coccydynia - could age, trauma and body mass index be independent prognostic factors for outcomes of intervention?

Introduction The aetiology of coccydynia can be multifactorial, with several associated factors such as obesity, female gender and low mood. The long-term results of operative interventions, such as manipulation under anaesthesia and coccygectomy are variable, ranging from 63-90%. Materials and methods Our aim was to identify whether age, trauma and body mass index (BMI) were independent prognostic factors in coccydynia treatment. All patients who presented to the Royal Derby Hospital with a primary diagnosis of coccydynia between January 2011 and January 2015 who had injections, manipulation under anaesthesia or coccygectomy were included. We used patient-reported satisfaction score as the primary outcome measure. We hypothesised that patients with preceding history of trauma and with high BMI (> 25) would be less satisfied. We divided patient BMI into four groups, following World Health Organization guidelines: group A (18.5-24.9), group B (25-29.9), group C (30-39.9) and group D (> 40). Results A total of 748 patients were diagnosed with coccydynia. Of these, 201 patients had 381 injections, 40 had 98 manipulations under anaesthesia and 9 had coccygectomy. Mean age was 46.4 years; 26% of patients had trauma to the coccyx. The mean time to follow-up was 7.3 months. We found a statistically significant difference (P = 0.03) between satisfaction scores in groups B and D. Patients who had trauma improved significantly (P = 0.04). The odds ratio calculation of coccygectomy and BMI revealed a higher risk of coccygectomy in Group A. Discussion This is the first study to establish BMI and trauma as independent prognostic factors for coccydynia treatment. Our hypothesis that patients with higher BMI would have lower satisfaction levels has been proven true.

Impact of the quantity of intradiscal cement leak on the progression of intervertebral disc degeneration.

Introduction We aim to assess the impact of the quantity of intradiscal cement leak during kyphoplasty on the rate of progression of degenerative changes in the affected disc. Methods Of 316 kyphoplasty procedures, we identified 32 episodes of intradiscal cement leak in 26 patients. The quantity of cement leaked was graded from I to IV. Disc degenerative changes were assessed at presentation and follow-up using radiographical scoring and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) grading systems. Data for low-grade leaks (grade I) were compared with the medium- and high-grade leaks (grades II-IV) using a chi-squared test. Results Median follow-up radiographic and MRI assessments were made at 18 and 21 months, respectively. Medium- and high-grade leaks were associated with a significantly higher radiographic disc degeneration scores compared with low-grade leaks (P = 0.04295) but no difference was found in MRI disc degeneration grades and in adjacent vertebral fracture rates. Conclusions Our findings indicate that the quantity of cement leaking into the disc space significantly influences the rate of progression of disc degeneration.

Cement Augmentation of the Cervical Spine - a Technique Enhancing Stability of Anterior Cervical Plating.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The aim of this study is to describe a new technique for cement augmentation of primary anterior cervical screw fixation in the sub-axial cervical spine. MATERIAL AND METHODS Seven patients underwent anterior cervical spine surgery for trauma (two) or tumor infiltration (five) between 2008 and 2015. The tumor cases underwent corpectomy and anterior plating, with the trauma cases undergoing anterior cervical decompression and fusion using iliac crest bone graft. All surgeries were performed through the standard anterior approach. 0.2-0.25 ml of Kyphon cement were introduced into the screw holes before the screws were locked into the plate of the anterior construct. Karnofsky Index, Spinal Instability Neoplastic score (SINS) were calculated and radiographic follow-up performed. RESULTS Median follow-up was 7 months (range 7 weeks-39 months). There were no complications from cement leakage or construct failure during the follow-up period. There were no wound infections or approach-related complications. We did not have to re-operate on any patient, cervical spine remained stable until the end of follow up. DISCUSSION Until now a limited number of papers on cement augmentation of cervical spine mainly dealt with revision surgeries, when cement was used as rescue technique to re-establish stability of previous fixation or cement augmentation was performed in form of vertebroplasty following plate fixation. Our technique intends to prevent revision surgeries and to anchor all screws in holes which are evenly filled with bone cement. CONCLUSIONS This technique of cement augmentation is a useful adjunct in those few patients where a secondary posterior surgery would be high-risk due to the general health of the patient, or when life expectancy is limited. We have shown that anterior alone reconstruction of the cervical spine with cement augmentation of screws did provide sufficient and sufficiently long stability of the cervical spine which prevented catastrophic collapse and quadriplegia in patients in poor general condition. Key words: cement augmentation, cervical spine, corpectomy, tumor, stabilization, fusion.

Total En Bloc Spondylectomy of C3: A New Surgical Technique and Literature Review.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Radical resection of a vertebra is reserved only for specific tumors that invade the surrounding tissues and recur when not removed completely. The vertebra may be removed using a piecemeal technique or en bloc, using only two (in thoracolumbar spine) or more osteotomies (in cervical spine). We present our technique of en bloc resection of subaxial cervical vertebra for Ewing's sarcoma of C3, with preservation of all nerve roots and both vertebral arteries. To our knowledge, this surgical technique has not been reported in the English literature. The aim of this study is to describe the new technique of radical resection of subaxial cervical vertebra. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A transoral biopsy of tumor tissue anterior to C2-C3 was performed in 8-year old boy, revealing a diagnosis of Ewing's sarcoma. The patient was started on neoadjuvant chemotherapy. After 6 chemotherapy cycles with the VIDE regimen, the soft-tissue component completely regressed, with the only a residual deposit in C3 vertebral body. Based on further multidisciplinary meeting, an en bloc spondylectomy of C3 was recommended, preferably with preservation of nerve roots and vertebral arteries. In August 2014, prior to the planned surgery, we performed another thorough examination of the patient using plain films, CT and MRI. Neither angiography nor embolization was performed. DESCRIPTION OF SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: The first stage of the operation consisted of resection of the posterior structures. We exposed the posterior elements of C2 to C4 by the mid-line incision. The C3 arch was without pathological changes. After partial resection of the C2 inferior and C4 superior articular processes we performed bilateral osteotomy in the region of the pedicle adjacent to the arch with a chisel and removed the whole of the C3 posterior arch. Subsequently we perforated the transverse foramina close to the pedicle, using fine Kerrison rongeurs. The lateral parts around vertebral arteries were left in situ. In the next step we used instrumentation with polyaxial screws to stabilize the C2-C4 section. After 19 days we performed the second stage surgery from an anterior approach with the removal of the anterior and lateral parts of the vertebra. We made a transverse incision anterior to the sternocleidomastoid between the internal carotid artery and the trachea on the right side at the level of C3 to expose the spine. We resected C2-C3 and C3-C4 intervertebral discs and then performed osteotomy with fine Kerrison rongeurs on both sides, again, close to the vertebral body. Subsequently, the vertebral body was released and extracted en bloc. In the next step, both vertebral arteries were mobilized and shifted medially and the lateral portions of the transverse processes were released and removed en bloc. The empty space was filled with solid allograft and the C2-C4 levels were bridged by the cervical plate in 2+1+2 configuration. RESULTS: There were no complications during both surgeries. The follow-up CT examination 4 months after the operation revealed a clear bone fusion of C2-C4, both anteriorly between vertebral bodies and posteriorly between the arches. Clinically the patient has reached 8 month follow up and had no complaints, both he and his parents were satisfied. Physiotherapy is proceeding according to plan. The patient remains under supervision at our centre. DISCUSSION: Total en bloc resection of a subaxial cervical vertebra with preservation of neural and vascular structures has been described in the English literature only once. In 2007 was published a total en bloc resection of C5 for chordoma, preserving the above mentioned structures. Authors removed the lamina en bloc after bilateral osteotomy. Transverse foramina were perforated by the Gigli saw and removed in piecemeal fashion, including the posterior tubercle. In the next step, they removed the vertebral body and the anterior tubercle from the anterior approach. However, their treatment differs from the technique described here and does not correspond fully to the principle of en bloc resection. Our surgical technique is based on a similar principle of performing several osteotomies without the use of high speed burr, while preserving all neural and vascular structures. The difference can be particularly seen in the approach to remove lateral parts of the transverse foramen, which are surrounding the vertebral arteries. We consider it as ideal to split the cervical vertebra by smooth cuts into four parts and remove them en bloc. CONCLUSION: Total en bloc spondylectomy of a subaxial cervical vertebra with preservation of vertebral arteries and nerve roots is a radical surgery that should be used to treat only the most serious conditions. The risk of neurological deficit is outweighed by the benefits of oncological radicality. This new surgical technique has not yet been described and it is clear, that a larger cohort of patients is necessary to assess and potentially modify this technique so that it can be used more frequently in the future.

Study investigating the role of skeletal muscle mass estimation in metastatic spinal cord compression.

BACKGROUND: Age-related loss of functional muscle mass is associated with reduced functional ability and life expectancy. In disseminated cancer, age-related muscle loss may be exacerbated by cachexia and poor nutritional intake, increasing functional decline, morbidity and accelerate death. Patients with spinal metastases frequently present for decompressive surgery with decision to operate based upon functional assessment. A subjective assessment of physical performance has, however, been shown to be a poor indicator of life expectancy in these patients. We aimed to develop an objective measure based upon lean muscle mass to aid decision making, in these individuals, by investigating the association between muscle mass and 1-year survival. METHODS: Muscle mass was calculated as total psoas area (TPA)/ vertebral body area (VBA), by two independent blinded doctors from CT images, acquired within 7 days of spinal metastases surgery, at the mid L3 vertebral level. Outcome at 1 year following surgery was recorded from a prospectively updated metastatic spinal cord compression database. RESULTS: 86 patients were followed for 1 year, with an overall mortality of 39.5%. Mortality rates at 1 year were significantly high among patients in the lowest quartile of muscle mass, compared with those in the highest quartile (57.1 vs 23.8%, p=0.02). CONCLUSION: Death within 1 year in individuals with spinal metastases is related to lean muscle mass at presentation. Assessment of lean muscle mass may inform decision to operate in patients with spinal metastases.

Otolaryngological complications of occipitocervical injury.

Occipitocervical injuries are rare, accounting for 15% of all fatal spinal trauma. In patients who survive the initial incident, early detection and appropriate management is vital to avoid significant neurological disability and mortality. We present the case of a patient with neck trauma who was initially cleared of spinal injuries in the emergency department but who later developed acute hearing loss. We describe how the investigation of the hearing loss led to the detection of this devastating injury and report its successful management. Patients with persistent neck pain following trauma, particularly in the presence of degenerative spinal disease, should have cervical spine computed tomography to exclude occipitocervical injuries and other occult injuries.

Tertiary syphilis in the cervical spine: a case report and review of the literature.

As the prevalence of syphilis rises, an increase in tertiary syphilis with spinal involvement is predicted. We report what we believe to be the first case of compressive cervical spine syphilitic gummata, with central cord compression signs. We also review the relevant literature to date. The diagnosis of syphilis in the spine relies on the physician to be aware of it as part of the differential diagnosis. Treponemal laboratory tests are an important aid in establishing a diagnosis.

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy: the outcome and potential complications of surgical treatment.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in patients over 60 years old. Symptoms often develop gradually and insidiously and are characterized by neck stiffness, arm pain, numbness and clumsiness of hands, as well as weakness of the hands and legs frequently leading to a change in mobility. Surgery is performed primarily to prevent the progression of symptoms but also with the aim of improving existing symptoms. Aim of our study was to assess the outcomes and potential complications of surgical decompression of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective data was collected from 71 patients who were treated surgically for CSM over a four-year period (June 2006 to June 2010). Only patients with confirmed spondylotic cervical myelopathy were included in the study; those with an inflammatory, infectious or neoplastic etiology were excluded. The Nurick scale was used as a primary outcome measure, and the improvement in upper limb function as a secondary outcome measure. Statistical significance was assessed using the paired t-test. RESULTS: 34/71 (47.9%) patients had an anterior decompression, 36/71 (50.7%) patients underwent posterior surgery and one patient (1.4%) received a combined approach: The Nurick score: The mean score improved by 0.9 from 2.4 preoperatively to 1.5 postoperatively for the whole series. Three patients were able to return to work. The preoperative Nurick score showed a positive correlation with the postoperative Nurick score at one year (Pearson Coefficient = 0.85). Upper limb symptoms: Postoperatively, 24 patients were free of any upper limb involvement compared with 6 patients preoperatively. The main improvement was in patients who prior to surgery had subjective symptoms with no objective signs of weakness or muscle wasting. 35/48 (72.9%) of this group showed improvement compared to 7/17 (41.2%) of patients who demonstrated objective weakness and/or wasting preoperatively. COMPLICATIONS: The overall rate of complications was 18.2%. There were two mortalities as a result of pneumonia (2.8%), one patient had to be transferred to the intensive care unit for cardiac failure (1.4%), fixation failure occurred in two patients (2.8%), worsening of myelopathy occurred in two patients (2.8%), C5 temporary radiculopathy presented in two patients (2.8%), superficial wound infection developed in one patient (1.4%) and three patients (4.2%) complained of severe axial pain in the postoperative period. DISCUSSION Our results demonstrate that the greater the preoperative disability the greater the final disability is expected to be. Cord signal change, as an indicator of the pathological severity of the disease, correlates with a worse functional outcome. The degree of improvement postoperatively (i.e. the functional change) does not show a significant correlation with the initial preoperative status. It appears however, that there is a better chance of improvement in patients with no objectively detectable weakness or muscle wasting. The rate of complications encountered in this series is comparable with those in the literature, which renders them valid for quoting when considering surgical treatment for CSM. CONCLUSION: Surgical decompression offers a real chance of improvement in the functional outcome of CSM, especially during the earlier stages of the disease. The surgical decision needs to be considered carefully due to the advanced age of the patient population and the greater burden of co-morbidities, which increase the surgical risks significantly.

Accuracy of prognostic scores in decision making and predicting outcomes in metastatic spine disease.

INTRODUCTION: Management of metastatic spinal disease has changed significantly over the last few years. Different prognostic scores are used in clinical practice for predicting survival. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of prognostic scores and the role of delayed presentation in predicting the outcome in patients with metastatic spine disease. METHODS: Retrospectively, four years of data were collected (2007-2010). Medical records review included type of tumour, duration of symptoms, expected survival and functional status. The Karnofsky performance score was used for functional assessment. Modified Tokuhashi and Tomita scores were used for survival prediction. RESULTS: A total of 55 patients who underwent surgical stabilisation were reviewed. The mean age was 63 years (range: 32-87 years). The main primary sources of tumours included myeloma, breast cancer, lymphoma, lung cancer, renal cell cancer and prostate cancer. Of the cases studied, 29 patients had posterior instrumented stabilisation alone, 10 patients had an anterior procedure alone and 16 patients (with an expected survival of more than one year) had both anterior and posterior procedures performed. Twenty-three patients presented with spinal cord compression. The mean follow-up duration was 9 months (range: 1-39 months). Patients who were treated within one week of referral survived longer than anticipated. Patients were divided into three groups based on their expected survival. Actual survival was better in all three groups after surgery. Discrepancies in scores were prominent in patients with myeloma, breast and prostate cancers. Functional outcome was better in patients under 65 years of age. CONCLUSIONS: The prognostic scoring systems are not uniformly effective in all types of primary tumours. However, they are useful in decision making for surgical intervention, taking other factors into account, in particular the age of the patient, the type and stage of the primary tumour and general health.

Spondylodiscitis in children: a retrospective series.

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 16 children treated for spondylodiscitis at our hospital between 2000 and 2007. The mean follow-up was 24 months (12 to 38). There was a mean delay in diagnosis in hospital of 25 days in the ten children aged less than 24 months. At presentation only five of the 16 children presented with localising signs and symptoms. Common presenting symptoms were a refusal to walk or sit in nine children, unexplained fever in six, irritability in five, and limping in four. Plain radiography showed changes in only seven children. The ESR was the most useful investigation when following the clinical course of the disease. Positive blood cultures were obtained in seven children with Staphylococcus aureus being isolated in five. Antibiotics were used in 14 children and spinal bracing in six. Children with spondylodiscitis often present with a confusing clinical picture leading to late diagnosis. The early use of MRI in the investigation of children with an atypical picture may avoid unnecessary delay in starting treatment and possibly prevent long-term problems. All except one of our children had made a complete clinical recovery at final follow-up. However, all six children in the > 24-month age group showed radiological evidence of degenerative changes which might cause problems in the future.