Bone Morphogenetic Protein in the Repair of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak after Transsphenoidal Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak carries significant morbidity. We sought to demonstrate that bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) use is effective and safe for the repair of recurrent CSF leak after a transsphenoidal pituitary tumor resection (TSPTR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed charts and radiographic data of consecutive patients who underwent BMP repair of recurrent CSF leak after TSPTR from January 2010 to June 2015 and who failed previous multilayer closure. We detailed the technique for constructing and placing a BMP-DuraGen patch for the repair. The primary variables include postoperative computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (CT/MRI) evidence of ectopic bone growth or inflammation, newly diagnosed systemic neoplasm within 1 year, and recurrent CSF leak. Secondary outcome is the length of stay after BMP repair. All patients were followed up radiographically and through phone interview. RESULTS: Four patients underwent BMP repair of recurrent CSF leak after TSPTR. The average postoperative CT/MRI interval was 22 months. Postoperative CT/MRI revealed no ectopic bone formation or inflammatory changes around the site of BMP application. There was no recurrence of CSF leak or newly diagnosed neoplasm from both chart review and phone interview. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrate that the use of BMP is a safe and an effective treatment in the repair of recurrent CSF leaks after TSPTR.

Two-Level Spontaneous Pedicle Fracture above a Degenerative Spondylolisthesis and Minimally Invasive Treatment.

This is a case report and literature review. The objectives of the study are to describe minimally invasive treatment of pedicle fractures, to show contralateral pedicle changes with pedicle fracture treatment, and to review literature on incidence and mechanism of neural arch fractures. After conservative therapy, there are several options for the treatment of pedicle fractures including pediculoplasty, osteosynthesis, or fusion. As patients' age increases, the incidence of pedicle fracture may rise and minimally invasive pedicle screw treatment represents a good motion-preserving option to stabilize without fusion. We report a patient with spontaneous pedicle fractures above a degenerative spondylolisthesis and evidence of contralateral pedicle changes at L2 and L3. After minimally invasive pedicle screw placement, postoperative imaging demonstrated trabeculation across both L2 and L3 fractures with a resolution of contralateral pedicle sclerotic changes and healing of incompletely fracture contralateral pedicle at L2. Pedicle fractures lead to contralateral pedicle sclerotic changes and potential fracture and may cause significant back pain. Stabilization and healing of the neural arch can be achieved with minimally invasive placement of pedicle screws without need for fusion.