Anterolateral versus posterior minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion surgery for spondylolisthesis: comparison of outcomes from a global, multicenter study at 12-months follow-up.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Several minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion techniques may be used as a treatment for spondylolisthesis to alleviate back and leg pain, improve function and provide stability to the spine. Surgeons may choose an anterolateral or posterior approach for the surgery however, there remains a lack of real-world evidence from comparative, prospective studies on effectiveness and safety with relatively large, geographically diverse samples and involving multiple surgical approaches. PURPOSE: To test the hypothesis that anterolateral and posterior minimally invasive approaches are equally effective in treating patients with spondylolisthesis affecting one or two segments at 3-months follow-up and to report and compare patient reported outcomes and safety profiles between patients at 12-months post-surgery. DESIGN: Prospective, multicenter, international, observational cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE: Patients with degenerative or isthmic spondylolisthesis who underwent 1- or 2-level minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion. OUTCOME MEASURES: Patient reported outcomes assessing disability (ODI), back pain (VAS), leg pain (VAS) and quality of life (EuroQol 5D-3L) at 4-weeks, 3-months and 12-months follow-up; adverse events up to 12-months; and fusion status at 12-months post-surgery using X-ray and/or CT-scan. The primary study outcome is improvement in ODI score at 3-months. METHODS: Eligible patients from 26 sites across Europe, Latin America and Asia were consecutively enrolled. Surgeons with experience in minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion procedures used, according to clinical judgement, either an anterolateral (ie, ALIF, DLIF, OLIF) or posterior (MIDLF, PLIF, TLIF) approach. Mean improvement in disability (ODI) was compared between groups using ANCOVA with baseline ODI score used as a covariate. Paired t-tests were used to examine change from baseline in PRO for both surgical approaches at each timepoint after surgery. A secondary ANCOVA using a propensity score as a covariate was used to test the robustness of conclusions drawn from the between group comparison. RESULTS: Participants receiving an anterolateral approach (n=114) compared to those receiving a posterior approach (n=112) were younger (56.9 vs 62.0 years, p <.001), more likely to be employed (49.1% vs 25.0%, p<.001), have isthmic spondylolisthesis (38.6% vs 16.1%, p<.001) and less likely to only have central or lateral recess stenosis (44.9% vs 68.4%, p=.004). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups for gender, BMI, tobacco use, duration of conservative care, grade of spondylolisthesis, or the presence of stenosis. At 3-months follow-up there was no difference in the amount of improvement in ODI between the anterolateral and posterior groups (23.2 ± 21.3 vs 25.8 ± 19.5, p=.521). There were no clinically meaningful differences between the groups on mean improvement for back- and leg-pain, disability, or quality of life until the 12-months follow-up. Fusion rates of those assessed (n=158; 70% of the sample), were equivalent between groups (anterolateral, 72/88 [81.8%] fused vs posterior, 61/70 [87.1%] fused; p=.390). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with degenerative lumbar disease and spondylolisthesis who underwent minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion presented statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements from baseline up to 12-months follow-up. There were no clinically relevant differences between patients operated on using an anterolateral or posterior approach.

TLIF Online Videos for Patient Education-Evaluation of Comprehensiveness, Quality, and Reliability.

Over the last few decades, the number of lumbar interbody fusion surgeries performed has been constantly increasing, with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) being one of the most common surgical techniques. Due to easy accessibility, patients frequently use YouTube to obtain information on health-related issues. Consequently, online video platforms may be a valuable tool for patient education. The aim of this study was to assess the quality, reliability, and comprehensiveness of online videos on TLIF. We screened 180 videos on YouTube, yielding a total of 30 videos that met the inclusion criteria. These videos were evaluated using Global Quality Scale, DISCERN reliability tool, and JAMA Benchmark Score, and assessed in regard to their comprehensiveness and coverage of relevant aspects. At the time of rating, the videos had between 9188 and 1,530,408 views and between 0 and 3344 likes. The median rater assessment for all videos was "moderate quality". GQS and subjective grades showed a moderate to strong statistically significant association with views and likes. Considering this association of GQS and subjective grade with views and likes, these criteria could be used by laypersons to identify good-quality content. Nevertheless, there is an urgent need for peer-reviewed content that covers all of the relevant aspects.

Reduction of spondylolisthesis and restoration of lumbar lordosis after anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF).

BACKGROUND: Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is a well-established surgical treatment option for various diseases of the lumbar spine, including spondylolisthesis. This study aimed to evaluate the postoperative correction of spondylolisthesis and restoration of lumbar and segmental lordosis after ALIF. METHODS: Patients with spondylolisthesis who underwent ALIF between 2013 and 2019 were retrospectively assessed. We assessed the following parameters pre-and postoperatively (6-months follow-up): Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), lumbar lordosis (LL), segmental lordosis (SL), L4/S1 lordosis, and degree of spondylolisthesis. RESULTS: 96 patients were included. In 84 cases (87.50%), additional dorsal instrumentation was performed. The most frequent diagnosis was isthmic spondylolisthesis (73.96%). VAS was reduced postoperatively, from 70 to 40, as was ODI (50% to 32%). LL increased from 59.15° to 64.45°, as did SL (18.95° to 28.55°) and L4/S1 lordosis (37.90° to 44.00°). Preoperative spondylolisthesis was 8.90 mm and was reduced to 6.05 mm postoperatively. Relative spondylolisthesis was 21.63% preoperatively and 13.71% postoperatively. All clinical and radiological improvements were significant (all p < 0.001). No significant difference considering the lordosis values nor spondylolisthesis was found between patients who underwent ALIF surgery without dorsal instrumentation and patients who received additional dorsal instrumentation. Venous laceration was the most frequent complication (10.42%). CONCLUSIONS: With ALIF, good clinical results and safe and effective reduction of spondylolisthesis and restoration of lordosis can be achieved. Additional dorsal instrumentation does not significantly affect postoperative lordosis or spondylolisthesis. Individual vascular anatomy must be reviewed preoperatively before considering ALIF.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) do not increase blood loss or the incidence of postoperative epidural hematomas when using minimally invasive fusion techniques in the degenerative lumbar spine.

Objective: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are essential in surgeons' armamentarium for pain relief and antiphlogistic effects. However, spine surgeons are concerned about the drugs' impact on coagulation, fearing hemodynamic instability due to blood loss and neurological complications due to postoperative hematoma. Furthermore, there are no clear guidelines for the use of these drugs. Materials and methods: In this retrospective subgroup analysis of a prospective observational study, we investigated 181 patients who underwent minimally invasive spinal fusions in degenerative lumbar spine pathologies. 83 patients were given NSAID perioperatively, 54 of which were female and 29 male. Of these patients who took NSAID, 39 were on NSAID until at least one day before surgery or perioperatively, whilst the others discontinued their NSAID medication at least three days before surgery. Differences in perioperative blood loss, as well as complication rates between patients with and without NSAID treatment, were investigated. Results: A significantly higher amount of blood loss during surgery and the monitoring period was encountered in patients whose spine was fused in more than one level, regardless of whether NSAID medication was taken or not and up until what point. Furthermore, it was found that taking NSAID medication had no effect on the incidence of postoperative epidural hematomas. Conclusion: Perioperatively taking NSAID medication does not increase blood loss or the incidence of postoperative hematoma in patients undergoing minimally invasive lumbar spinal fusion surgery.

Frequency and characteristics of bacterial and viral low-grade infections of the intervertebral discs: a prospective, observational study.

STUDY DESIGN: Monocentric, prospective, observational study. OBJECTIVE: The clinical relevance of bacterial colonization of intervertebral discs is controversial. This study aimed to determine a possible relationship between bacterial and viral colonization and low-grade infection of the discs. METHODS: We investigated 447 disc samples from 392 patients. Microbiological culture was used to examine the samples for bacterial growth, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for detection of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and histopathological analysis was used to detect signs of inflammation. The results were compared between subgroups organized according to gender, age, location of the samples, surgical approach, preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP), preoperative and 6 months postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Modic changes (MC) of the corresponding endplates. Also, we assessed the occurrence of postoperative infections within 6 months. RESULTS: Microbiological culture was positive in 38.78% of the analyzed intervertebral discs. Altogether, 180 bacteria were isolated. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CONS) (23.41%) and Cutibacterium acnes (18.05%) were the most frequently detected microorganisms. None of HSV-1, HSV-2, or CMV were detected. Male patients (p = 0.00036) and cervical segments (p = 0.00001) showed higher rates of positive culture results. Ventral surgical approaches ( p < 0.001) and Type 2 MC (p = 0.0127) were significantly associated with a positive microbiological result ( p< 0.001). Neither pre- nor postoperative ODI and NDI are associated with positive culture results. In 4 (1.02%) patients, postoperative spondylodiscitis occurred. CONCLUSIONS: With 447 segments from 392 patients, we present one of the largest studies to date. While disc degeneration caused by HSV-1, HSV-2, and CMV seems unlikely, we found positive microbiological culture results in 38.78% of all discs. The role of local skin flora and sample contamination should be the focus of further investigations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04712487, https://www. CLINICALTRIALS: gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04712487 ).

Accidental Dural Tears in Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery for Degenerative Lumbar Spine Disease.

Background: One of the most frequent complications of spinal surgery is accidental dural tears (ADTs). Minimal access surgical techniques (MAST) have been described as a promising approach to minimizing such complications. ADTs have been studied extensively in connection with open spinal surgery, but there is less literature on minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS). Materials and Methods: We reviewed 187 patients who had undergone degenerative lumbar spinal surgery using minimally invasive spinal fusions techniques. We analyzed the influence of age, Body Mass Index (BMI), smoking, diabetes, and previous surgery on the rate of ADTs in MISS. Results: Twenty-two patients (11.764%) suffered from an ADT. We recommended bed rest for two and a half to 5 days, depending on the type of repair required and the amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. We could not find any statistically significant correlation between ADTs and age (p = 0.34,), BMI (p = 0.92), smoking (p = 0.46), and diabetes (p = 0.71). ADTs were significantly more frequent in cases of previous surgery (p < 0.001). None of the patients developed a transcutaneous CSF leak or post-operative infection. Conclusions: The frequency of ADTs in MISS appears comparable to that encountered when using open surgical techniques. Additionally, MAST produces less dead space along the corridor to the spine. Such reduced dead space may not be enough for pseudomeningocele to occur, cerebrospinal fluid to accumulate, and fistula to form. MAST, therefore, provides a certain amount of protection.

Treatment Options for Scrotal Migration of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunts: Case Illustration and Systematic Review of 48 Cases.

BACKGROUND: Scrotal migration of intact or disconnected tubing is a rare complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunts. While some illustrative case reports can be found in the literature, a systematic review on treatment options is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To propose the first literature-based treatment algorithm on scrotal shunt migration. METHODS: We conducted a literature search using the keywords: "VP," "ventriculoperitoneal," "shunt," and "scrotum." We identified 36 publications with 48 cases reported including our index case. RESULTS: Median age at presentation was 13.5 mo (3 d to 65 yr) which was 4 mo (3 d to 72 mo) after last shunt-related surgery. All patients had scrotal swelling, 39 (81%) patients presented without other symptoms, 4 (8%) had additionally local pain, and 4 (8%) patients presented with symptoms of shunt dysfunction. Treatment was surgically in all but one case where spontaneous resolution without repeat migration occurred. In 3 of 4 patients who had either subcutaneous shortening or abdominal repositioning of the shunt without hernia repair, scrotal shunt migration recurred within the following month. Whereas the surgical treatment with reposition of the migrated catheter back into the peritoneal cavity via a groin incision plus hernia repair yielded a definite treatment in all 26 performed cases, the revision rate was significantly higher in the shunt revision without hernia repair cohort (P = .0009). CONCLUSION: Scrotal shunt migration is a rare shunt complication with good recovery when treated surgically. We recommend hernia repair in addition to either manual or surgical repositioning of migrated tubing.

The influence of smoking in minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery.

BACKGROUND: The impact of smoking on spinal surgery has been studied extensively, but few investigations have focused on minimally invasive surgery (MIS) of the spine and the difference between complication rates in smokers and non-smokers. We evaluated whether a history of at least one pack-year preoperatively could be used to predict adverse peri- and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive fusion procedures of the lumbar spine. In a prospective study, we assessed the clinical effectiveness of MIS in an unselected population of 187 patients. METHODS: We evaluated perioperative and postoperative complication rates in MIS fusion techniques of the lumbar spine in smoking and non-smoking patients. MIS fusion was performed using interbody fusion procedures and/or posterolateral fusion alone. RESULTS: Smokers were significantly younger than non-smokers. We did not encounter infection at the site of surgery or severe wound healing disorder in smokers. We registered no difference between the smoking and non-smoking groups with regard to peri- or postoperative complication rate, blood loss, or length of stay in hospital. We found a significant influence of smoking (p = 0.049) on the overall perioperative complication rate. CONCLUSION: MIS fusion techniques seem to be a suitable tool for treating degenerative spinal disorders in smokers.

Are the Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Transforaminal/Posterior Lumbar Fusion Influenced by the Patient's Age or BMI?

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective subgroup analysis of a prospective observational study was carried out. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Patients' baseline characteristics may influence the clinical outcomes after minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion (MILIF). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the influence of patient's age and body mass index (BMI) on the clinical outcomes of MILIF for degenerative lumbar disorder. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 252 patients underwent MILIF. The clinical outcomes, including time to first ambulation, time to postsurgical recovery, back/leg pain in visual analog scale, Oswestry Disability Index, and EuroQol-5 Dimension, were collected at baseline, 4 weeks, 6, and 12 months. Patients were subgrouped by age (50 y and below: N=102; 51-64 y: N=102; 65 y and above: N=48) and BMI (≤25.0: N=79; 25.1-29.9: N=104; ≥30.0: N=69). Data from baseline to 12 months were compared for all clinical outcomes within age/BMI subgroups. Adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) were summarized by age and BMI subgroups. RESULTS: All age and BMI subgroups showed significant improvements in clinical outcomes at 12 months compared with the baseline. The median time to first ambulation was similar for all subgroups (age groups: P=0.8707; BMI: P=0.1013); older people show a trend of having longer time to postsurgical recovery (age groups: P=0.0662; BMI: P=0.1591). Oswestry Disability Index, back, and leg pain visual analog scale, and EuroQol-5 Dimension were similar in all subgroups at every timepoint. A total of 50 AEs (N=39) were reported, 9 of which were SAEs; 3 AEs and 1 SAE were considered to be related to surgical procedure. No differences were observed in safety by age groups and BMI groups. CONCLUSION: MILIF appears to be safe and effective, independent of age or weight in the treatment of degenerative lumbar disorder. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Long-Term Outcomes in Ventriculoatrial Shunt Surgery in Patients with Pediatric Hydrocephalus: Retrospective Single-Center Study.

OBJECTIVE: Long-term outcomes are rarely reported for patients with pediatric hydrocephalus. Ventriculoperitoneal shunting is the surgical standard; nevertheless, in selected patients, a ventriculoatrial shunt (VAS) remains an important alternative. This study aimed to analyze the causes of VAS revisions and complications. METHODS: Pediatric patients who underwent their first shunt operation between 1982 and 1992 were included. The timing, cause, and modality of VAS revisions were retrospectively determined. RESULTS: Overall, 138 patients were treated for hydrocephalus and 61 patients received a VAS during the follow-up period. A primary VAS was the first shunt type in 42 (68.85%) patients. In 19 (31.15%) patients, conversions to second-line VAS were carried out. The rates of VAS revisions performed for dysfunction or elective lengthening of a short atrial catheter were 52.2% and 22.9%, respectively. There was no difference in the number of VAS revisions between patients with primary VASs and second-line VASs. Age at VAS and etiology of hydrocephalus had no effect on the number of revisions. Specific VAS complications were observed in 2 patients. Deep positioning of the distal catheter led to asymptomatic tricuspid regurgitation that was reversible after shortening of the atrial catheter. Another patient presented with shunt nephritis and completely recovered after the atrial catheter was replaced with a peritoneal catheter. CONCLUSIONS: VAS remains an appropriate second-line alternative in selected patients. Specific VAS complications were rarely observed and completely reversible after treatment. However, regular and specific follow-up examinations are strongly recommended to avoid cardiopulmonary or renal complications.

The impact of type 2 diabetes on the peri- and postoperative outcomes of minimally invasive fusion techniques in the lumbar spine.

BACKGROUND: The impact of diabetes on spinal surgery has been studied extensively, but very few studies have focused on minimal access spinal technologies (MAST) and complication rates in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Diabetes increases the risk of wound healing disorders, complication rate and length of stay in the hospital. We focused on the peri- and postoperative complications of MAST in an unselected consecutive population of 187 patients suffering from degenerative disorders lumbar spine disorders. Since mostly older patients are affected by degenerative lumbar changes, we concentrated on T2DM. METHODS: We evaluated perioperative and postoperative complication rates associated with MAST fusion techniques in lumbar spine surgery in patients suffering from T2DM compared to patients without diabetes. Lumbar fusion was performed using interbody and posterolateral fusion. RESULTS: Eighteen female and sixteen male patients suffered from T2DM (15.65% and 22.22% respectively). No differences between patients with and without T2DM concerning surgery-related complications including infections, severe wound healing disorders or length of in-hospital stay were noted. Peri- or postoperative complication rates, as well as blood loss volumes, were evenly distributed between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: T2DM is not a risk factor for the occurrence of complications in MAST.

Adult Outcome in Shunted Pediatric Hydrocephalus: Long-Term Functional, Social, and Neurocognitive Results.

OBJECTIVE: Very long-term outcomes are rarely reported for patients with shunted pediatric hydrocephalus. This study aimed to determine the functional, social, and neurocognitive outcomes of such patients after transition to adulthood. METHODS: Adult patients with pediatric hydrocephalus who underwent their first shunt operation between 1982 and 1992 were included. Functional, social, educational, working aspects, and verbal intelligence were evaluated. In patients with average or above average verbal intelligence, detailed neuropsychological testing was performed and memory, executive functioning, selective attention, and concentration were assessed. RESULTS: Overall, 137 patients underwent primary surgery because of pediatric hydrocephalus, 53 (38.7%) of whom died during the follow-up period. Of the 84 long-term survivors, 65 (77.4%) agreed to participate and were included for further analysis. Forty-five patients (69.2%) had completed secondary school, but only 34 (52.3%) were integrated in the open labor market. Although the verbal intelligence of 31 patients (47.7%) was within the normal range, 19 (29.2%) had a severe mental handicap. Shunt infections (P = 0.0025), epilepsy (P < 0.0001), and the number of shunt operations (P = 0.0082) were associated with reduced verbal intelligence. Most patients with average or above average verbal intelligence had deficits in detailed neuropsychological testing. In 23 patients, detailed neuropsychological testing was performed. CONCLUSIONS: The overall long-term outcome of patients with shunted pediatric hydrocephalus is poor. These results highlight the importance of lifelong routine controls to avoid later complications. Further, repeated neuropsychological examinations might be important to understand the patient's special needs to optimize professional support.

The influence of age on the peri- and postoperative clinical course in patients undergoing minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion techniques of the lumbar spine.

OBJECTIVE: As a result of continuously increasing life expectancy, the number of requests for surgery to treat degenerative diseases of the spine in the elderly population will increase. Since older age is associated with the occurrence of medical comorbidities, the demand for less extensive surgical approaches is growing. The aim of this study is to establish whether minimally invasive fusion techniques are a safe and adequate tool for use in elderly patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed 187 patients who underwent minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in the form of one- to four-level fusion procedures. In 146 patients, additional widening of the spinal canal was performed. The subjects were grouped into four age categories of approximately equal size (33-56, 56-66, 66-74 and 74-85). The effect of age on the incidence of peri- and postoperative complications was investigated and compared between the age groups. RESULTS: Older age was not associated with the occurrence of perioperative complications, which include wound healing disorders, hematomas, wound traction-blisters and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Fourteen patients (7.49%) encountered distinct surgical technique related complications, making surgical revision necessary in eight patients (4.28%). Furthermore, increasing age didn't elevate the risk of postoperative adverse events, i.e. pulmonary embolism, ischemic heart attack or pneumonia, among others. However, older patients were found to stay in hospital longer than younger patients, especially when more than one level was fused. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive surgery techniques are safe in elderly patients. The small-scale surgical approach guarantees a low incidence of infections and wound healing disorders. However, a longer hospital stay must be expected in older patients.

Surgical and Clinical Results of Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion Surgery in an Unselected Patient Cohort of a Spinal Care Unit.

OBJECTIVES: To review the surgical results and to identify possible parameters influencing the clinical outcomes in an unselected patient collective undergoing minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion in a spinal care unit. METHODS: A total of 229 adult patients who underwent minimally invasive lumbar spinal fusion between 2008 and 2016 were included in this retrospective analysis. Lumbar fusion was performed using transforaminal interbody fusion (TLIF) devices and posterolateral fusion. To eliminate confounding parameters, in all patients interbody fusion was indicated by lumbar degenerative pathologies, and surgery was performed using the same fusion device. Treatment efficacy was evaluated using scores describing pain (visual analogue scale [VAS]) and health impairment (EQ-5D, Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]). The influence of patient age, obesity, active smoking status, and co-morbidities on clinical outcome and perioperative complications was analyzed. RESULTS: The patient population reviewed had improved VAS (P(leg pain) ≤ 0.0001, P(back pain) ≤ 0.0001), ODI (P ≤ 0.0001), EQ-VAS (P ≤ 0.0001), and EQ-5D subscales "mobility", "self-care", "pain", and "anxiety" (P(mobility) ≤ 0.0001, P(self-care) = 0.41, P(pain) ≤ 0.0001, P(anxiety) = 0.011) postoperatively. Neither advanced patient age, nor increased body mass index (BMI), hypertension, or active smoking status had a significantly limiting influence on the success of minimally invasive spinal surgeries (MIS). Duration of surgery strongly correlated with the number of spinal levels treated and with intraoperative blood loss (r = 0.774, P ≤ 0.0001, n = 208). Weak positive correlations were found between patient age and duration of surgery (r = 0.184, P = 0.005, n = 229), intraoperative blood loss (r = 0.165, P = 0.012, n = 229), and duration of hospitalization (r = 0.270, P ≤ 0.0001, n = 228), respectively. When compared to non-smokers, smokers were younger (P ≤ 0.0001), and had a significantly lower BMI (P = 0.001), shorter durations of surgery (P ≤ 0.0001), decreased intraoperative blood loss (P = 0.022), and shorter hospital stays (P = 0.006), respectively. Complications occurred in 17 patients (7%) and were not affected by patient age, BMI, hypertension, or active smoking status. CONCLUSION: Minimally invasive spinal surgery is a safe and effective treatment option and may be superior to open surgery in subpopulations with significant co-morbidities and risk factors, such as elderly and obese patients as well as patients with an active smoking status.

Abdominal Pseudocysts and Peritoneal Catheter Revisions: Surgical Long-Term Results in Pediatric Hydrocephalus.

OBJECTIVE: An abdominal pseudocyst (APC) is a distal catheter site-specific failure in patients treated with ventriculoperitoneal shunts. Few studies with more than 10 patients have been reported. The aim of this study was to analyze causes of peritoneal catheter revisions with special emphasis on revisions because of an APC. METHODS: Pediatric patients with first shunt operation between 1982 and 1992 were included, and time, cause, and modality of peritoneal catheter revision were determined retrospectively. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-eight patients were treated for hydrocephalus, and 112 patients received a peritoneal catheter during the follow-up. An APC was diagnosed in 14 (12.5%) patients, and 28 revisions were needed for its treatment. The rate of shunt infection in patients with APC was 50%, but bacterial examination of the pseudofluid culture revealed infection in only 3 patients. Age at first surgical procedure, type of first surgical procedure, and etiology of hydrocephalus were not associated with APC diagnosis. APC recurred in 4 patients. These patients had a catheter repositioning directly into the peritoneum as first surgical treatment. No recurrences were observed in patients with shunt externalization or replacement of the peritoneal catheter. CONCLUSIONS: An APC is a major long-term complication after ventriculoperitoneal shunt treatment. Although a sterile inflammatory response cannot be excluded completely, our results favor the hypothesis of low-level shunt infection. In both cases, the surgical consequences are the same. An infected APC should be treated as a shunt infection. Uninfected patients can be treated with shunt externalization and replacement of only the peritoneal catheter.

Does Obesity Affect Perioperative and Postoperative Morbidity and Complication Rates After Minimal Access Spinal Technologies in Surgery for Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease.

OBJECTIVE: The impact of obesity on spine surgery has been studied extensively, but only a few investigations have been focused on minimally invasive spinal fusion techniques and complication rates in normal-weight, preobese, or obese patients. Obesity was found to be a risk factor for intraoperative complications. Published data tend to favor minimal access surgery techniques (MAST) for obese patients. In a prospective study, we assessed the perioperative and postoperative complications of MAST in a large population of 187 patients. METHODS: We evaluated perioperative and postoperative complication rates in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) fusion techniques of the lumbar spine in obese, preobese, and normal-weight patients, classified by body mass index (BMI). Lumbar MIS fusion was performed by interbody fusion procedures and posterolateral fusion. In cases of spinal stenosis, a laminotomy was performed (146 patients). Any harmful event occurring during or after surgery was included in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: No infection or severe wound healing disorder was encountered in the series. No significant difference in terms of cerebrospinal fluid leakage, blood loss, drainage, or length of hospital stay between the 3 BMI groups was encountered. More clinically insignificant hematomas were encountered in the preobese and obese groups (P = 0.013) than in the normal-weight patients. No significant difference was registered between the BMI or age groups regarding overall complication rates. CONCLUSION: We conclude that preobese and obese patients are good candidates for MAST because BMI did not affect complication rates or duration of surgery.

MASTERS-D Study: A Prospective, Multicenter, Pragmatic, Observational, Data-Monitored Trial of Minimally Invasive Fusion to Treat Degenerative Lumbar Disorders, One-Year Follow-Up.

UNLABELLED: The objective of the study is to assess effectiveness and safety of minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion (MILIF) for degenerative lumbar disorders (DLD) in daily surgical practice and follow up with patients for one year after surgery. A prospective, multicenter, pragmatic, monitored, international outcome study in patients with DLD causing back/leg pain was conducted (19 centers). Two hundred fifty-two patients received standard of care available in the centers. Patients were included if they were aged >18 years, required one- or two-level lumbar fusion for DLD, and met the criteria for approved device indications. Primary endpoints: time to first ambulation (TFA) and time to surgery recovery (TSR). Secondary endpoints: patient-reported outcomes (PROs)--back and leg pain (visual analog scale), disability (Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)), health status (EQ-5D), fusion rates, reoperation rates, change in pain medication, rehabilitation, return to work, patient satisfaction, and adverse events (AEs). Experienced surgeons (≥30 surgeries pre-study) treated patients with DLD by one- or two-level MILIF and patients were evaluated for one year (NCT01143324). At one year, 92% (233/252) of patients remained in the study. PRIMARY OUTCOMES: TFA, 1.3 ±0.5 days and TSR, 3.2 ±2.0 days. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: Most patients (83.3%) received one level MILIF; one (two-level) MILIF mean surgery duration, 128 (182) min; fluoroscopy time, 115 (154) sec; blood loss, 164 (233) mL; at one year statistically significant (P<.0001) and clinically meaningful changes from baseline were reported in all PROs--reduced back pain (2.9 ±2.5 vs. 6.2 ±2.3 at intake), reduced leg pain (2.2 ±2.6 vs. 5.9 ±2.8), and ODI (22.4% ± 18.6 vs. 45.3% ± 15.3), as well as health-related quality of life (EQ-5D index: 0.71 ±0.28 vs. 0.34 ±0.32). More of the professional workers were working at one year than those prior to surgery (70.3% vs. 55.2%). Three AEs and one serious AE were considered procedure-related; there were no deep site infections or deaths. This is the first study evaluating MILIF for treatment of DLD in daily clinical practice. Clinically significant improvements were observed in all endpoints. Short-term post-surgery improvements (four weeks) were maintained through one year with minimal complications. Our results suggest that MILIF has good-to-excellent outcomes for the treatment of DLD in a broad patient population under different clinical conditions and healthcare delivery systems.

Surgical data and early postoperative outcomes after minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion: results of a prospective, multicenter, observational data-monitored study.

UNLABELLED: Minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion (MILIF) offers potential for reduced operative morbidity and earlier recovery compared with open procedures for patients with degenerative lumbar disorders (DLD). Firm conclusions about advantages of MILIF over open procedures cannot be made because of limited number of large studies of MILIF in a real-world setting. Clinical effectiveness of MILIF in a large, unselected real-world patient population was assessed in this Prospective, monitored, international, multicenter, observational study. OBJECTIVE: To observe and document short-term recovery after minimally invasive interbody fusion for DLD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a predefined 4-week analysis from this study, experienced surgeons (≥ 30 MILIF surgeries pre-study) treated patients with DLD by one- or two-level MILIF. The primary study objective was to document patients' short-term post-interventional recovery (primary objective) including back/leg pain (visual analog scale [VAS]), disability (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]), health status (EQ-5D) and Patient satisfaction. RESULTS: At 4 weeks, 249 of 252 patients were remaining in the study; the majority received one-level MILIF (83%) and TLIF was the preferred approach (94.8%). For one-level (and two-level) procedures, surgery duration was 128 (182) min, fluoroscopy time 115 (154) sec, and blood-loss 164 (233) mL. Time to first ambulation was 1.3 days and time to study-defined surgery recovery was 3.2 days. Patients reported significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced back pain (VAS: 2.9 vs 6.2), leg pain (VAS: 2.5 vs 5.9), and disability (ODI: 34.5% vs 45.5%), and a significantly (P < 0.0001) improved health status (EQ-5D index: 0.61 vs 0.34; EQ VAS: 65.4 vs 52.9) 4 weeks postoperatively. One adverse event was classified as related to the minimally invasive surgical approach. No deep site infections or deaths were reported. CONCLUSIONS: For experienced surgeons, MILIF for DLD demonstrated early benefits (short time to first ambulation, early recovery, high patient satisfaction and improved patient-reported outcomes) and low major perioperative morbidity at 4 weeks postoperatively.

The frequency of accidental dural tears in minimally invasive spinal fusion techniques.

BACKGROUND: Accidental dural tears (ADTs) are one of the most frequent complications of spinal surgery. Minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS) has been described as a promising approach in the literature. ADT has been extensively reported in connection with open spinal surgery, but less so in the context of MISS. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed 72 patients who had undergone minimally invasive spinal fusions techniques. RESULTS: Ten patients (13.9%) had an ADT. We recommended bed rest for 2.5 to 5 days, depending on the type of repair and the size of cerebrospinal fluid leakage. One patient suffered from a transient meningism, whereas the others remained free of symptoms associated with ADT. CONCLUSION: Despite the rather small series investigated in the study, the frequency of ADT in MISS appears to be comparable to that encountered when using open surgical techniques.

Perioperative morbidity and complications in minimal access surgery techniques in obese patients with degenerative lumbar disease.

The medical profession is increasingly confronted with the epidemic phenomenon of obesity. Its impact on spine surgery is not quite clear. Published data concerning the use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in the spine among obese patients is scarce. The purpose of the present retrospective study was to evaluate perioperative as well as postoperative complication rates in MIS fusion of the lumbar spine in obese, overweight and normal patients classified according to their body mass index. Lumbar MIS fusion was performed by means of TLIF procedures and/or posterolateral fusion alone. A laminotomy was performed in patients with spinal stenosis. Of 72 patients, 39 underwent additional laminotomy for spinal stenosis. No differences were registered in respect of the numbers of fused segments or cages. Any harmful event occurring peri- or postoperatively was noted and included in the statistical analysis. No infection at the site of surgery or severe wound healing disorder was encountered. We registered no difference in blood loss, drainage, or the length of the hospital stay between the three BMI groups. We also observed no difference in complication rates between the three groups. This study confirms the low soft tissue damage of minimal access surgery techniques, which is an important type of surgery in obese patients. The smaller approach helps to minimize infections and wound healing disorders. Moreover, deeper regions of wounds are clearly visualized with the aid of tubular retractors.