Hip Flexion Weakness following Transpsoas Interbody Fusion

Objective The present work evaluated the motor deficit resulting from the psoas muscle access through the extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) approach. Methods This was a prospective, non-randomized, controlled, single-center study with 60 patients, with a mean age of 61.8 years old. All of the subjects underwent a lateral transpsoas retroperitoneal approach for lumbar interbody fusion with electroneuromyographic guidance and accessing 1 to 3 lumbar levels (mean level, 1.4; 63% cases in only 1 level; 68% cases included L4-L5). The isometric hip flexion strength in the sitting position was determined bilaterally with a handheld dynamometer (Lafayette Instrument, Lafayette, IN, USA). Themean value of three peak forcemeasurements (N) was calculated. Standardized isometric strength tests were performed before the procedure and at 10 days, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months postsurgery. Results Ipsilateral hip flexion was diminished (p < 0.001) at the early postoperative period, but reached preoperative values at 6 weeks (p > 0.12). The mean hip flexion measures before the procedure and at 10 days, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months after surgery were the following, respectively: 13 N; 9.7 N; 13.7 N; 14.4 N; and 16 N (ipsilateral); 13.3 N; 13.4 N; 15.3 N; 15.9 N; and 16.1 N (contralateral). Neither the level nor the number of treated levels had a clear association with thigh symptoms, but hip flexion weakness was the most common symptom. Conclusions Patients in the early postoperative period of transpsoas access presented hip flexion weakness. However, this weakness was transient, and electroneuromyography use is still imperative in transpsoas access. In addition, patients must be thoroughly educated about hip flexion weakness to prevent falls in the immediate postoperative period.

Elastomeric Lumbar Total Disc Replacement: Clinical and Radiological Results With Minimum 84 Months Follow-Up.

BACKGROUND: Total lumbar disc replacement (TDR) devices have been designed to maintain motion, but both biomechanical and clinical data have indicated that a more controlled motion and additional load absorption in TDR would be beneficial. This work analyzed long-term results of an elastomeric disc (Physio-L) for degenerative lumbar conditions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a prospective, noncomparative, single-center clinical and radiological study. A total of 15 patients with predominant low back pain due degenerative disc disease received anterior total disc replacement with a Physio-L disc. Clinical outcomes were assessed both with a visual analog scale for pain and Oswestry Disability Index questionnaires. Radiological outcomes included implant failure, range of motion (ROM), facet degeneration, and adjacent level disease. Complication and reoperation rates were also recorded. The cases were assessed with a minimum follow-up of 84 months. RESULTS: A total of 15 patients were enrolled (20 TDRs)-10 single-level cases (L5S1) and 5 two-level cases (L4L5/L5S1). After 84 months, clinical outcomes scores still demonstrated significant improvement compared with baseline (P < .001). Mean visual analog scale scores dropped from 7.1 to 2.9, and the Oswestry Disability Index improved from 50 to 16. No disc has experienced migration or breakage. The average range of motion value went from a baseline of 12.0° to 13.3° at 12 months, and at the final follow-up it decreased to 9.9°. Regarding the double-level cases, 3 of 5 (60%) had adverse events; just 1 single-level (10%) had adverse events. At final follow-up, radiological signs of facet degeneration were present in 7 of 15 patients (47%) but with only 1 of 15 (6.7%) symptomatic. Two patients (13%) required surgery at the adjacent level. At the 84-month follow-up, 16 of 18 prostheses (89%) were still active (2 revised to fusion and 2 were lost to follow-up). CONCLUSION: The long-term follow-up data shows satisfactory clinical results for the use of Physio-L elastomeric TDR in the treatment of degenerative disc disease. Studies with bigger cohorts are needed to replicate results and add new information regarding other details.

Alif with auto-locking cage without supplementation - tomographic analysis of interbody bone fusion / Alif com cage autobloqueante sem suplementação - análise tomográfica de fusão óssea intersomática / Alif con caja con autobloqueo sin complementación - análisis tomográfico de fusión ósea intersomática

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this work is to study the fusion rate and complications of the mini-ALIF with an auto-locking device at the L5-S1 level. Methods: Retrospective and radiological study. The inclusion criteria were mini-ALIF in L5-S1 with auto-locking cage, DDD and/or low grade spondylolisthesis. The exclusion criteria were posterior/anterior supplementation; lack of 12-month follow-up images, and previous surgery at L5-S1 level. The primary endpoint was fusion assessed in CT images and/or lateral lumbar flexion/extension radiographs. The secondary endpoint was the revision surgery due to device movement/migration or pseudoarthrosis. Lumbar TCs and radiographs were analyzed during 12 months of follow-up. Fusion was defined according to Bridwell/Lenke classification. Results: Sixty-one cases were included in this study. Complete or ongoing fusion was found in 57 cases (93%). Forty-two of the 61 levels (65%) were completely fused after 12 months. Fifteen levels (28%) had evident bone growth, two levels (3%) showed lysis lines around the implant, and two levels (3%) presented lysis lines and depression. Reoperation for pedicular screw supplementation was necessary in two cases (3%), one with vertebral sliding progression (12 months), and one with symptomatic micro-movement (six months). No implant has undergone migration or expulsion of the disc space. Conclusions: Mini-ALIF in L5-S1 level using an auto-blocking interbody implant construction in cases of low segmental instability results in good interbody fusion index and low failure rate, even without the need for further supplementation, but should not be applied indiscriminately. Evidence Level: IV. Type of study: Case series.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é estudar a taxa de fusão e complicações do mini-ALIF com dispositivo autobloqueante no nível L5S1. Métodos: Estudo radiológico e clínico retrospectivo. Inclusão: mini-ALIF feito em L5S1 com cage autobloqueante; DDD e/ou espondilolistese de baixo grau. Exclusão: suplementação posterior/anterior; falta de imagens de 12 meses; cirurgia prévia no nível L5S1. O desfecho primário foi fusão avaliada em exames de TC e/ou radiografias lombares laterais de flexão/extensão. Desfecho secundário foi cirurgia de revisão, devido movimento/migração do dispositivo ou pseudoartrose. Tomografias e radiografias lombares foram analisadas em 12 meses. Fusão foi definida de acordo com classificação de Bridwell/Lenke. Resultados: 61 casos incluídos neste estudo. Fusão completa ou em curso foi encontrada em 57 casos (93%). 42 dos 61 níveis (65%) estavam completamente fusionados após 12 meses. 15 níveis (28%) tiveram crescimento ósseo evidente, dois níveis (3%) mostraram linhas de lise ao redor do implante, e dois níveis (3%) apresentaram linhas de lise e afundamento. Reoperação para suplementação com parafusos pediculares foi necessária em dois casos (3%) - um com progressão do deslizamento vertebral (12 meses) e outro com micro movimentação sintomático (seis meses). Nenhum implante sofreu migração ou expulsão do espaço discal. Conclusões: mini-ALIF em L5S1 usando uma construção com implante intersomático auto-bloqueante, em casos de baixa instabilidade segmentar, resulta em bom índice de fusão intersomática e baixo índice de falha, mesmo sem a necessidade de suplementação posterior, mas não deve ser aplicado indiscriminadamente. Nivel de Evidência: IV. Tipo de estudo: Série de casos.

RESUMEN Objetivo: El objetivo de este trabajo es estudiar la tasa de fusión y las complicaciones de la mini-ALIF con un dispositivo de autobloqueo en el nivel L5-S1. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo y radiológico. Los criterios de inclusión fueron mini-ALIF en L5-S1 con caja con mecanismo de autobloqueo, DDD y/o espondilolistesis de bajo grado. Los criterios de exclusión fueron complementación posterior/anterior, falta de imágenes de seguimiento de 12 meses y cirugía previa en el nivel L5-S1. El criterio principal de valoración fue la evaluación de la fusión en imágenes de TC y/ o radiografías lumbares laterales en flexión/extensión. El criterio secundario de valoración fue la cirugía de revisión debido al movimiento/migración del dispositivo o la pseudoartrosis. Las tomografías y radiografías lumbares se analizaron durante 12 meses. La fusión fue definida de acuerdo con la clasificación de Bridwell/Lenke. Resultados: Sesenta y un casos fueron incluidos en este estudio. Se encontró fusión completa o en curso en 57 casos (93%). Cuarenta y dos de los 61 niveles (65%) estaban completamente fusionados después de 12 meses. Quince niveles (28%) tuvieron crecimiento óseo evidente, dos niveles (3%) mostraron líneas de lisis alrededor del implante y dos niveles (3%) presentaron líneas de lisis y hundimiento. La reintervención para la complementación con tornillos pediculares fue necesaria en dos casos (3%), uno con progresión de deslizamiento vertebral (12 meses) y uno con micro-movimiento sintomático (seis meses). Ningún implante ha sufrido migración o expulsión del espacio discal. Conclusiones: La mini-ALIF en nivel L5-S1 utilizando una construcción de implante intersomático con mecanismo de autobloqueo en casos de baja inestabilidad segmentar resulta en buen índice de fusión intersomática y bajo índice de fallo, incluso sin la necesidad de complementación, pero no debe aplicarse indiscriminadamente. Nivel de Evidencia: IV: Tipo de estudio: Serie de Casos.

Workers' compensation is associated with worst clinical results after lumbar fusion / Compensação trabalhista é associada a piores resultados clínicos após artrodese lombar / Compensación laboral es asociada con los peores resultados clínicos después de artrodesis lumbar

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of clinical results with preoperative situation of worker compensation (WC) in patients submitted to spine surgery. Methods: This was a retrospective, comparative, single center study. Patients who underwent lumbar spine arthrodesis were included. The outcomes were pain scores (VAS), physical constraint (ODI) and quality of life (EQ-5D). Outcomes were analyzed before surgery and after surgery (minimum follow-up of six months and maximum of 12). Two groups were compared: individuals with or without WC at preoperative visit. Results: A total of 132 cases were analyzed (mean age 54 years and 51% female), 29 (22%) assigned to the WC group. The groups were matched for age, sex, and preoperative depression levels. In the preoperative period, the groups showed equal pain and physical constraint; however the CT group had lower quality of life (p=0.05). Although both groups showed improvement in clinical outcomes after surgery (p<0.05), worse scores were observed for the WC group compared to the non-WC group, respectively: VAS 4.9 vs. 3.2 (p=0.02), ODI 34.7 vs. 23.4 (p=0.002), and EQ-5D 0.56 vs. 0.75 (p=0.01). Conclusion: In this study it was possible to observe that WC is associated with worse clinical results following elective surgical treatment of the lumbar spine.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a associação de resultados clínicos à situação pré-operatória de compensação trabalhista (CT) em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de coluna. Métodos: Este estudo foi retrospectivo, comparativo e em único centro. Foram incluídos pacientes que passaram por artrodese da coluna lombar. Os desfechos clínicos foram escores de dor (EVA), restrição física (ODI) e qualidade de vida (EQ-5D). Os desfechos foram analisados antes e depois da cirurgia (acompanhamento mínimo de seis meses e máximo de 12). Dois grupos foram comparados: indivíduos sem ou com CT na visita pré-operatória. Resultados: No total foram analisados 132 casos (média de idade 54 anos e 51% do sexo feminino), sendo 29 (22%) do grupo com CT. Os grupos se mostraram pareados quanto a idade, sexo e nível de depressão pré-operatória. No pré-operatório os grupos se mostraram iguais quanto a dor e restrição física, porém, o grupo com CT apresentava qualidade de vida inferior (p = 0,05). Apesar de os dois grupos terem mostrado melhora nos desfechos clínicos após a cirurgia (p < 0,05), observaram-se piores escores para o grupo com CT comparado com grupo sem CT, respectivamente: EVA 4,9 vs. 3,2 (p = 0,02), ODI 34,7 vs. 23,4 (p = 0,002) e EQ-5D 0,56 vs. 0,75 (p = 0,01). Conclusão: No presente trabalho, foi possível observar que a CT está ligada a piores resultados clínicos após tratamento cirúrgico eletivo da coluna lombar.

RESUMEN Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la asociación de resultados clínicos con la condición preoperatoria de compensación laboral (CL) en pacientes sometidos a cirugía de columna. Métodos: Este estudio fue retrospectivo, comparativo y en un único centro. Se incluyeron pacientes sometidos a la artrodesis de la columna lumbar. Los parámetros clínicos analizados fueron puntuaciones de dolor (EVA), restricción física (ODI) y calidad de vida (EQ-5D). Esos parámetros se analizaron antes y después de la cirugía (seguimiento mínimo de seis meses y máximo de 12). Se compararon dos grupos: pacientes sin o con CL en la visita preoperatoria. Resultados: En total se analizaron 132 casos (promedio de edad 54 años y 51% del sexo femenino), siendo 29 (22%) del grupo con CL. Los grupos eran pareados en cuanto a edad, sexo y nivel de depresión preoperatoria. En el preoperatorio los grupos se mostraron iguales en cuanto al dolor y restricción física, pero el grupo con CL presentaba calidad de vida inferior (p = 0,05). Aunque los dos grupos hayan mostrado una mejora en los parámetros clínicos después de la cirugía (p < 0,05), se observaron puntuaciones más bajas en el grupo de CL en comparación con el grupo sin CL, respectivamente: EVA 4,9 vs. 3,2 (p = 0,02), ODI 34,7 vs. 23,4 (p = 0,002) y EQ-5D 0,56 vs. 0,75 (p = 0,01). Conclusión: En el presente estudio fue posible observar que la CL está vinculada a peores resultados clínicos después del tratamiento quirúrgico electivo de la columna lumbar.

Influence of psychosocial distress in the results of elective lumbar spine surgery.

BACKGROUND: Low back pain can be caused by several pathological entities and its perception can be altered by external factors, for example by some psychological and social factors. The objective of this study was to compare surgical outcomes in patients with or without psychosocial issues. METHODS: Single center, retrospective and comparative study. Patients with indication to elective lumbar spine surgery were screened for some psychosocial factors. As a result of the screening, patients were divided in two groups: mild psychosocial issues (green group) or moderate psychosocial issues (yellow group). The groups were compared using the following variables: demographic and clinical history, depression (HAD-D), anxiety (HAD-A), pain levels [visual analogue scale (VAS)], disability [Oswestry disability index (ODI)] and quality of life [EuroQol 5D (EQ-5D)] at preop and 6-12 months follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 136 patients were included (51% female) in this study. The 62.5% were allocated at the green group, and 37.5% in the yellow group. Similar pain levels were observed at preop, but the green group evolved with superior improvement in pain levels after surgery (P=0.003). In the ODI and EQ-5D scales, the green group had already shown lower clinical disability at preop (P=0.009 and P=0.003, respectively) and evolved with better outcomes at the final evaluation (P=0.049 and P=0.017). VAS, ODI and EQ-5D scores improved from baseline similarly in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Presurgical screening identify the presence of psychological distress. Psychosocial factors are correlated with poorer clinical outcomes, both in the baseline and after the surgery. Despite the differences between found, even patients with mild psychosocial impairment can experience clinical improvement with surgery.

In which patients is it possible to perform standalone lateral lumbar interbody fusion without cage subsidence? / Em quais pacientes é possível realizar fusão intersomática lombar por via lateral sem subsidência do cage? / Cuáles son los pacientes que pueden ser sometidos a fusión intersomática lumbar por vía lateral sin subsidencia del cage?

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the factors related to the non-occurrence of cage subsidence in standalone lateral lumbar interbody fusion procedures. Methods: Case-control study of single level standalone lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) including 86 cases. Patients without cage subsidence composed the control group (C), while those in the subsidence group (S) developed cage subsidence. Preoperative data were examined to create a risk score based on correlation factors with S group. The proven risk factors were part of an evaluation score. Results: Of the 86 cases included, 72 were in group C and 14 in group S. The following risk factors were more prevalent in group S compared to C group: spondylolisthesis (93% vs 18%; p<0.001); scoliosis (31% vs 12%; p=0.033); women (79% vs 38%; p=0.007); older patients (average 57.0 vs 68.4 years; p=0.001). These risk factors were used in a score (0-4) to evaluate the risk in each case. The patients with higher risk scores had greater subsidence (p<0.001). Scores ≥2 were predictive of subsidence with 92% sensitivity and 72% specificity. Conclusions: It was possible to correlate the degree of subsidence in standalone LLIF procedures using demographic (age and gender) and pathological (spondylolisthesis and scoliosis) data. With a score based on risk factors and considering any score <2, the probability of non-occurrence of subsidence following standalone LLIF (negative predictive value) was 98%.

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar os fatores relacionados a não ocorrência de subsidência de cage em procedimentos de fusão lombar intersomática por via lateral em um só nível. Métodos: Estudo de caso controle em fusão intersomática lombar por via lateral (LLIF) em um só nível, incluindo 86 casos. Os pacientes sem subsidência do cage formaram o grupo controle (C), enquanto os do grupo subsidência (S) desenvolveram subsidência do cage. Os dados pré-operatórios foram examinados para criar um escore de risco com base em fatores de correlação com o grupo S. Os fatores de risco comprovados fizeram parte de um escore de avaliação. Resultados: Dos 86 casos incluídos, 72 estavam no grupo C e 14 no grupo S. Os seguintes fatores de risco foram mais prevalentes no grupo S com relação ao grupo C: espondilolistese (93% vs. 18%; p < 0,001); escoliose (31% vs. 12%; p = 0,033); mulheres (79% vs. 38%; p = 0,007); pacientes idosos (média de 57,0 vs. 68,4 anos; p = 0,001). Esses fatores de risco foram utilizados em um escore (0-4) para avaliar o risco em cada caso. Os pacientes com escores mais altos de risco tiveram maior subsidência (p < 0,001). Os escores ≥ 2 foram preditivos de subsidência com sensibilidade de 92% e especificidade de 72%. Conclusões: Foi possível correlacionar o grau de subsidência em procedimentos LLIF em um só nível com a utilização de dados demográficos (idade e sexo) e patológicos (espondilolistese e escoliose). Com um escore baseado em fatores de risco e considerando qualquer pontuação <2, a probabilidade de não ocorrência de subsidência depois de LLIF em um só nível (valor preditivo negativo) foi de 98%.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar los factores relacionados con la ausencia de subsidencia de cage en los procedimientos de fusión intersomática lumbar por vía lateral en un solo nivel. Métodos: Estudio de caso-control en la fusión intersomática lumbar por vía lateral (LLIF) en un solo nivel, incluyendo 86 casos. Los pacientes sin subsidencia del cage formaron el grupo control (C), mientras que el grupo de subsidencia (S) desarrolló subsidencia del cage. Los datos preoperatorios fueron examinados para crear una puntuación de riesgo basada en factores de correlación con el grupo S. Los factores de riesgo comprobados formaron parte de una puntuación de evaluación. Resultados: De los 86 casos incluidos, 72 formaron el grupo C y 14 el grupo S. Los siguientes factores de riesgo son más prevalentes en el grupo S con respecto al grupo C: espondilolistesis (93% vs. 18%, p <0,001); escoliosis (31% vs. 12%, p = 0,033); mujeres (79% vs. 38%, p = 0,007); ancianos (media de 57,0 a 68,4 años; p = 0,001). Estos factores de riesgo se utilizaron en una puntuación (0-4) para evaluar el riesgo en cada caso. Los pacientes con puntuaciones más altas de riesgo tuvieron mayor subsidencia (p < 0,001). Las puntuaciones ≥ 2 fueron predictivas de la subsidencia con una sensibilidad del 92% y una especificidad del 72%. Conclusiones: Se ha podido relacionar el grado de subsidencia en los procedimientos LLIF en un solo nivel con el uso de los datos demográficos (edad y sexo) y patológicos (espondilolistesis y escoliosis). Con una puntuación basada en factores de riesgo y considerado un puntaje < 2, la probabilidad de no ocurrencia de subsidencia después de LLIF en un solo nivel (valor predictivo negativo) fue del 98%.

Immediate reciprocal changes at adjacent level following single-level Alif / Alterações recíprocas imediatas do nível adjacente após Alif monossegmentar / Alteraciones recíprocas inmediatas de nivel adyacente después de Alif monosegmentaria

Objective: To assess the segmental sagittal parameters and the adjacent mobile segment after interbody fusion by anterior approach in single-level L5-S1. Methods: Retrospective study. Inclusion: Interbody fusion by anterior approach (10°/15° angle), due to DDD, low-grade spondylolisthesis and/or stenosis without prior lumbar fusion. Thirty-five cases were included (25 women; mean age 47±15 years). Analysis of lumbar radiographs were performed preoperatively and 3 months after surgery. The following parameters were evaluated: lumbar lordosis; segmental lordosis L4-L5 and L5-S1; sacral and L5 slope. Two independent evaluators made the measurements. Student's t test was used. Results: There was correction of lordosis at the L5-S1 level, from an average of 19° prior to surgery to 28° three months after surgery (p<0.001). It was observed reduction of the L4-L5 angle from 17° to 14° (p <0.001). Moreover, there was a small, but statistically significant, reduction of L5 inclination from 17 ° to 13 ° (p=0.007) and increase in the sacral slope from 37° to 40° (p=0.002). The change of total lumbar lordosis was not significant: 52° versus 53° (p=0.461). Before surgical correction, lordosis of the L5-S1 level contributed, on average, 37% of lumbar lordosis, and after, 54% (p<0.001). The L4-L5 level accounted for 34% and decreased to 24% (p<0.001). Conclusion: In the group studied, it was observed a decrease in lordosis of the adjacent mobile level following the treatment of the degenerate level by anterior interbody fusion and concomitant increase in lordosis.

Objetivos: Avaliar os parâmetros sagitais segmentares e do segmento móvel adjacente após fusão intersomática por via anterior em nível único L5-S1. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo. Inclusão: Fusão intersomática por via anterior (com espaçador de 10°/15° de angulação), em decorrência de DDD, espondilolistese de baixo grau e/ou estenose, sem artrodese lombar prévia. Foram incluídos 35 casos (25 mulheres; média de idade 47 ± 15 anos). Foram realizadas análises de radiografias lombares no pré-operatório e 3 meses após a cirurgia. Avaliaram-se os seguintes parâmetros: lordose lombar; lordose segmentar L4-L5 e L5-S1; inclinação sacral e de L5. Dois avaliadores independentes fizeram as medidas. Foi utilizado o teste t de Student. Resultados: Houve correção da lordose no nível L5-S1, com média de 19° no pré-operatório e de 28° três meses após o tratamento cirúrgico (p < 0,001). Observou-se redução do ângulo de L4-L5, de 17° para 14° (p < 0,001). Ainda, observou-se pequena, porém, estatisticamente significante, redução da inclinação de L5, de 17° para 13° (p = 0,007), e aumento da inclinação sacral de 37° para 40° (p = 0,002). A alteração da lordose lombar total não foi significante: de 52° para 53° (p = 0,461). Antes da correção cirúrgica, a lordose do nível L5-S1 contribuía, em média, com 37% da lordose lombar, e após, com 54% (p < 0,001). Já o nível L4-L5 contribuía com 34% e diminuiu para 24% (p < 0,001). Conclusão: No grupo estudado, foi possível observar a diminuição da lordose do nível móvel adjacente após tratamento de nível degenerado por meio de fusão intersomática anterior e aumento concomitante de lordose.

Objetivo: Evaluar los parámetros sagitales segmentarios y del segmento móvil adyacente después de fusión intersomática por vía anterior en nivel único L5-S1. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo. Inclusión: Fusión intersomática por vía anterior (con separador de 10o/15° de angulación), como consecuencia de DDD, espondilolistesis de grado bajo y/o estenosis, sin fusión lumbar previa. Fueron incluidos 35 casos (25 mujeres, promedio de edad 47 ± 15 años). Fueron realizados análisis de radiografías lumbares en el preoperatorio y 3 meses después de la cirugía. Se evaluaron los siguientes parámetros: lordosis lumbar; lordosis segmentaria L4-L5 y L5-S1; inclinación sacral y de L5. Dos evaluadores independientes hicieron las medidas. Fue utilizado el test t de Student. Resultados: Hubo corrección de la lordosis en el nivel L5-S1, con promedio de 19° en el preoperatorio y de 28° tres meses después del tratamiento quirúrgico (p <0,001). Se observó reducción del ángulo de L4-L5, de 17° para 14° (p <0,001). Además, se observó pequeña, aunque estadísticamente significativa reducción de la inclinación de L5, de 17° para 13° (p = 0,007) y aumento de la inclinación sacral de 37° para 40° (p = 0,002). La alteración de la lordosis lumbar total no fue significativa: 52° para 53° (p = 0,461). Antes de la corrección quirúrgica, la lordosis del nivel L5-S1 contribuía, promedio, con 37% de la lordosis lumbar, y después, con 54% (p < 0,001). Ya el nivel L4-L5 contribuía con 34% y disminuyó para 24% (p < 0,001). Conclusión: En el grupo estudiado, fue posible observar la disminución de la lordosis del nivel móvil adyacente después del tratamiento de nivel degenerado por medio de fusión intersomática anterior y aumento concomitante de lordosis.

Anterior column realignment following lateral interbody fusion for sagittal deformity correction.

Degenerative and iatrogenic diseases may lead to loss of lordosis or even kyphotic thoracolumbar deformity and sagittal misalignment. Traditional surgery with three-column osteotomies is associated with important neurologic risks and postoperative morbidity. In a novel technique, the lateral transpsoas interbody fusion (LTIF) is complemented with the sacrifice of the anterior longitudinal ligament and anterior portion of the annulus followed by the insertion of a hyperlordotic interbody cage. This is a less invasive lateral technique named anterior column realignment (ACR) and aims to correct sagittal misalignment in adult spinal deformity (ASD), with or without the addition of minor posterior osteotomies. In this article, we provide an account of the evolution to the ACR technique, the literature, and the Brazilian experience in the treatment of adult spinal deformity with this novel advanced application of LTIF. In the presence of ASD, the risk-to-benefit ratio of a surgical correction must be evaluated. Less invasive surgical strategies can be alternatives to treat the deformity and provide better quality of life to the patient. ACR is an advanced application of lateral transpsoas approach, up to date has shown to be reliable and effective when used for ASD, and may minimize complications and morbidity from traditional surgical procedures. Long-term follow-up and comparative studies are needed to evaluate real benefit.

Radiographic and clinical evaluation of cage subsidence after stand-alone lateral interbody fusion.

OBJECT: Indirect decompression of the neural structures through interbody distraction and fusion in the lumbar spine is feasible, but cage subsidence may limit maintenance of the initial decompression. The influence of interbody cage size on subsidence and symptoms in minimally invasive lateral interbody fusion is heretofore unreported. The authors report the rate of cage subsidence after lateral interbody fusion, examine the clinical effects, and present a subsidence classification scale. METHODS: The study was performed as an institutional review board-approved prospective, nonrandomized, comparative, single-center radiographic and clinical evaluation. Stand-alone short-segment (1- or 2-level) lateral lumbar interbody fusion was investigated with 12 months of postoperative follow-up. Two groups were compared. Forty-six patients underwent treatment at 61 lumbar levels with standard interbody cages (18 mm anterior/posterior dimension), and 28 patients underwent treatment at 37 lumbar levels with wide cages (22 mm). Standing lateral radiographs were used to measure segmental lumbar lordosis, disc height, and rate of subsidence. Subsidence was classified using the following scale: Grade 0, 0%-24% loss of postoperative disc height; Grade I, 25%-49%; Grade II, 50%-74%; and Grade III, 75%-100%. Fusion status was assessed on CT scanning, and pain and disability were assessed using the visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index. Complications and reoperations were recorded. RESULTS: Pain and disability improved similarly in both groups. While significant gains in segmental lumbar lordosis and disc height were observed overall, the standard group experienced less improvement due to the higher rate of interbody graft subsidence. A difference in the rate of subsidence between the groups was evident at 6 weeks (p = 0.027), 3 months (p = 0.042), and 12 months (p = 0.047). At 12 months, 70% in the standard group and 89% in the wide group had Grade 0 or I subsidence, and 30% in the standard group and 11% in wide group had Grade II or III subsidence. Subsidence was detected early (6 weeks), at which point it was correlated with transient clinical worsening, although progression of subsidence was not observed after the 6-week time point. Moreover, subsidence occurred predominantly (68%) in the inferior endplate. Fusion rate was not affected by cage dimension (p > 0.999) or by incidence of subsidence (p = 0.383). CONCLUSIONS: Wider cages avoid subsidence and better restore segmental lordosis in stand-alone lateral interbody fusion. Cage subsidence is identified early in follow-up and can be accessed using the proposed classification scale.

A prospective, randomized, controlled trial comparing radiographic and clinical outcomes between stand-alone lateral interbody lumbar fusion with either silicate calcium phosphate or rh-BMP2.

OBJECT: Iliac crest autograft has traditionally been considered the gold standard for lumbar spine fusion, though it is not without drawbacks related to harvesting site pain and other complications. Bone graft alternatives, such as recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rh-BMP2), are now widely used but also have unique risk profiles and substantially increase costs. The purpose of the current study was to compare the efficacy of rh-BMP2 and synthetic silicate calcium phosphate (SiCaP) as bone graft substitutes on fusion rates and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing single-level lumbar stand-alone extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF). METHODS: A prospective, randomized, controlled, clinical, and radiographic study was performed at a single institution. Thirty patients with L4-L5 degenerative disc disease (DDD) were enrolled. Patients were randomized into one of two groups, 15 underwent lumbar single-level stand-alone XLIF using SiCaP, and 15 using rh-BMP2. Clinical and radiographic results were compared between the study groups. Pain (visual analogue scale) and disability (Oswestry disability index) were assessed preoperatively and at postoperative weeks 1 and 6 and postoperative months 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36. Radiographic evaluations were performed at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. Neurological examinations and adverse events were recorded at each visit. RESULTS: No intraoperative complications were observed in either treatment group, and clinical outcomes were similarly improved between bone graft substitutes from baseline to 36 months postoperative. Complications were transient hip flexion weakness (13%), insufficient indirect decompression (7%), subsidence (17%), excessive bone formation (4%), and adjacent segment disease (14%). Complication rates between the groups were similar, though with slightly more instances of subsidence in the SiCaP group and higher rates of excessive bone formation and adjacent segment disease in the rh-BMP2 group. Rates of fusion at different time points were different between the groups, with the SiCaP patients progressing more slowly toward solid fusion. However, at 36 months, 100% of patients undergoing XLIF achieved solid fusion. CONCLUSIONS: In stand-alone XLIF, SiCaP and rhBMP-2 bone graft substitutes both resulted in complete long-term fusion. rhBMP-2, however, seemed to result in more rapid early postoperative fusion, though with one instance of excessive bone formation in one patient that required subsequent surgical intervention.

Results and complications after 2-level axial lumbar interbody fusion with a minimum 2-year follow-up.

OBJECT: Axial lumbar interbody fusion (AxiaLIF) is a minimally invasive presacral surgical technique that damages neither the anulus fibrosus nor the anterior or posterior longitudinal ligaments. The technique was initially designed and used for L5-S1 interbody fusions and recently was extended to 2-level fusions (L4-5 and L5-S1). Until now, only biomechanical and radiological studies have discussed the feasibility of this new indication, and no clinical study has been published. The purpose of this article is to report results and complications associated with 2-level presacral AxiaLIF with a minimum of 24 months of follow-up. METHODS: In this prospective, nonrandomized, single-center study, 27 patients underwent presacral AxiaLIF surgery at the L4-5 and L5-S1 levels. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale for back and leg symptoms and the Oswestry Disability Index. Radiographic parameters, such as disc height, segmental lordosis, and bone fusion, were analyzed using radiographs and CT scans. Complications and revision surgeries were recorded as needed. The minimum follow-up was 24 months (up to 72 months). RESULTS: There were no intraoperative complications. One major complication was observed: a patient developed septicemia that resolved after proper care. Clinical outcomes scores showed overall improvement in pain and physical function. During follow-up, the following complications were observed in the construct: screw breakage (14.8%), proximal/distal transsacral rod detachment (11.1%), radiolucency around the transsacral rod (52%), and cephalic rod migration (24%). Disc height gain was reported early after surgery, but at the 24-month follow-up the disc space was diminished in comparison with the preoperative status. Compared with preoperative values, the 24-month results showed loss of segmental lordosis. Only 22% of all treated levels were considered to have solid fusion at the 24-month radiological evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Patients undergoing presacral 2-level AxiaLIF experienced satisfactory short-term clinical outcomes; however, complications were commonly seen on imaging studies obtained 24 months postoperatively. Additional studies are required to better understand the 2-level indications for this technique.

Lições sobre a substituição total de disco cervical após sete anos de acompanhamento / Lecciones sobre el reemplazo total de disco cervical después de siete años de seguimiento / Lessons learned on cervical total disc replacement after 7-year follow-up

OBJETIVOS: Apresentar a experiência clínica e radiológica da artroplastia cervical no tratamento da degeneração do disco intervertebral, mantendo o movimento e reduzindo o estresse e a degeneração dos segmentos adjacentes. MÉTODOS: Foram estudadas as radiografias de 280 níveis em 161 pacientes (média de idade de 45,4 anos) tratados entre os níveis cervicais C3-4 e C7-T1. Setenta e um pacientes foram operados em um único nível, 67 pacientes em dois, 17 em três, e seis em quatro níveis. Os resultados radiológicos e clínicos foram coletados no pré-operatório, 1 semana, 1, 3 e 6 meses e anualmente. Questionários NDI/VAS foram utilizados para avaliar a dor e os resultados funcionais. Para a análise da degeneração facetária, foi utilizada uma escala de quatro graus com base em tomografias computadorizadas. RESULTADOS: Os resultados clínicos melhoraram significativamente em todas as visitas pós-operatórias. A maioria dos pacientes evoluiu com grau I e II de degeneração facetária, e para esses casos não houve piora clínica, diferentemente de casos com grau III e IV. Entre os níveis estudados, 25 (8,93%) revelaram algum grau de HO: 14 apresentaram grau I (56%), 7 de grau II (28%), 3 com grau III (12%) e apenas um com grau IV (4%). Em 92% dos pacientes que desenvolveram HO havia presença de osteófitos incipientes. Ocorreu doença em nível adjacente em 5,7% dos pacientes. CONCLUSÃO: Os bons resultados clínicos também corroboram a superioridade do CTDR em comparação com a ACDF, já descritos na literatura.

OBJECTIVE: To present the clinical and radiological experience of cervical arthroplasty in the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration, maintaining movement and reducing adjacent segments stress and degeneration. METHODS: We studied the radiographs of 280 levels in 161 patients (mean age 45.4 years) treated between cervical levels C3-4 and C7-T1. Seventy-one patients were operated at one disc level, 67 at two, 17 at three, and 6 at four levels. Radiological and clinical outcomes were collected preoperatively, 1 week and 1, 3 and 6 months and annually. NDI/VAS questionnaires were used to assess pain and functional outcomes. For facet degeneration analysis, we used a four-grade scale based on CT scans. RESULTS: The clinical outcomes significantly improved at all postoperative visits. The majority of patients progressed to grade I and II facet degeneration, and in these cases there was no clinical deterioration, unlike cases with grade III and IV. Among the studied levels, 25 (8.93%) revealed some degree of HO: 14 had grade I level (56%), 7 grade II (28%), 3 grade III (12%) and 1 grade IV (4%). In 92% of patients that developed HO it was found incipient presence of osteophytes. Adjacent level disease occurred in 5.7% of patients. CONCLUSION: The good clinical results also confirm the superiority of outcomes of CTDR in comparison with those of ACDF, described in the literature.

OBJETIVOS: Presentar las manifestaciones clínicas y radiológicas de la artroplastia cervical en el tratamiento de la degeneración del disco intervertebral, manteniendo el movimiento y reduciendo el estrés y la degeneración del segmento adyacente. MÉTODOS: Se estudiaron las radiografías de 280 niveles en 161 pacientes (edad promedio de 45,4 años) tratados entre los niveles cervicales C3-4 a C7-T1. 71 pacientes fueron operados en un solo nivel, 67 pacientes en dos, 17 en tres niveles, siendo 4 niveles en seis. Los resultados clínicos y radiológicos fueron recolectados antes de la operación, 1 semana, y 1, 3 y 6 meses y anualmente. Cuestionarios de NDI/VAS se utilizaron para evaluar el dolor y los resultados funcionales. Para el análisis de la degeneración de las facetas, se utilizó una escala de cuatro grados basada ​​en la tomografía computarizada. RESULTADOS: Los resultados clínicos han mejorado significativamente en todas las visitas posoperatorias. La mayoría de los pacientes progresó hasta los grados I y II de degeneración facetária, y en estos casos no hubo deterioro clínico, a diferencia de los casos con grados III y IV. Entre los niveles estudiados, 25 (8,93%) mostraron algún grado de HO: 14 fueron de grado I (56%), 7 de grado II (28%), tres con grado III (12%) y solo uno de grado IV (4%). En 92% de los pacientes, que desarrollaron HO, había incipiente presencia de osteofitos. La enfermedad de niveles adyacentes se produjo en el 5,7% de los pacientes. CONCLUSIÓN: Los buenos resultados clínicos también corroboran la superioridad de CTDR en comparación con los resultados del ACDF descritos en la literatura.

Lateral interbody fusion for treatment of discogenic low back pain: minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Low back pain is one of the most common ailments in the general population, which tends to increase in severity along with aging. While few patients have severe enough symptoms or underlying pathology to warrant surgical intervention, in those select cases treatment choices remain controversial and reimbursement is a substancial barrier to surgery. The object of this study was to examine outcomes of discogenic back pain without radiculopathy following minimally-invasive lateral interbody fusion. Twenty-two patients were treated at either one or two levels (28 total) between L2 and 5. Discectomy and interbody fusion were performed using a minimallyinvasive retroperitoneal lateral transpsoas approach. Clinical and radiographic parameters were analyzed at standard pre- and postoperative intervals up to 24 months. Mean surgical duration was 72.1 minutes. Three patients underwent supplemental percutaneous pedicle screw instrumentation. Four (14.3%) stand-alone levels experienced cage subsidence. Pain (VAS) and disability (ODI) improved markedly postoperatively and were maintained through 24 months. Segmental lordosis increased significantly and fusion was achieved in 93% of levels. In this series, isolated axial low back pain arising from degenerative disc disease was treated with minimally-invasive lateral interbody fusion in significant radiographic and clinical improvements, which were maintained through 24 months.

Stand-alone lateral interbody fusion for the treatment of low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis.

The purpose of this paper was to investigate the stand-alone lateral interbody fusion as a minimally invasive option for the treatment of low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis with a minimum 24-month followup. Prospective nonrandomized observational single-center study. 52 consecutive patients (67.6 ± 10 y/o; 73.1% female; 27.4 ± 3.4 BMI) with single-level grade I/II single-level degenerative spondylolisthesis without significant spine instability were included. Fusion procedures were performed as retroperitoneal lateral transpsoas interbody fusions without screw supplementation. The procedures were performed in average 73.2 minutes and with less than 50cc blood loss. VAS and Oswestry scores showed lasting improvements in clinical outcomes (60% and 54.5% change, resp.). The vertebral slippage was reduced in 90.4% of cases from mean values of 15.1% preoperatively to 7.4% at 6-week followup (P < 0.001) and was maintained through 24 months (7.1%, P < 0.001). Segmental lordosis (P < 0.001) and disc height (P < 0.001) were improved in postop evaluations. Cage subsidence occurred in 9/52 cases (17%) and 7/52 cases (13%) spine levels needed revision surgery. At the 24-month evaluation, solid fusion was observed in 86.5% of the levels treated. The minimally invasive lateral approach has been shown to be a safe and reproducible technique to treat low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis.

The importance of the anterior longitudinal ligament in lumbar disc arthroplasty: 36-Month follow-up experience in extreme lateral total disc replacement.

BACKGROUND: Current total disc replacement (TDR) for lumbar spine requires an anterior approach for implantation but presents inherent limitations, including risks to the abdominal structures, as well as resection of the anterior longitudinal ligament. By approaching the spine laterally, it is possible to preserve the stabilizing ligaments, which are a natural restraint to excessive rotations and translations, and thereby help to minimize facet stresses. This less invasive approach also offers a biomechanical advantage of placement of the device over the ring apophysis bilaterally; importantly, it also offers a greater opportunity for safer revision surgery, if necessary, by avoiding scarring of the anterior vasculature. We present the clinical and radiologic results of a lateral TDR device from a prospective single-center study. METHODS: A new metal-on-metal TDR device designed for implantation through a true lateral, retroperitoneal, transpsoatic approach (extreme lateral interbody fusion) was implanted in 36 patients with discography-confirmed 1- or 2-level degenerative disc disease. Clinical (pain and function) and radiographic (range of motion) outcome assessments were prospectively collected preoperatively, postoperatively, and serially up to a minimum of 36 months' follow-up. RESULTS: Between December 2005 and December 2006, 36 surgeries were performed in 16 men and 20 women (mean age, 42.6 years). These included 15 single-level TDR procedures at L3-4 or L4-5, 3 2-level TDR procedures spanning L3-4 and L4-5, and 18 hybrid procedures (anterior lumbar interbody fusion) at L5-S1 and TDR at L4-5 (17) or L3-4 (1). Operative time averaged 130 minutes, with mean blood loss of 60 mL and no intraoperative complications. Postoperative X-rays showed good device placement, with restoration of disc height, foraminal volume, and sagittal balance. All patients were up and walking within 12 hours of surgery, and all but 9 were discharged the next day (7 of those 9 were hybrid TDR-anterior lumbar interbody fusion cases). Postoperatively, 5 of 36 patients (13.8%) had psoas weakness and 3 of 36 (8.3%) had anterior thigh numbness, with both symptoms resolving within 2 weeks. Of the 36 patients, 4 (11%) had postoperative facet joint pain, all in hybrid cases. Visual analog scale pain scores and Oswestry Disability Index scores improved by 74.5% and 69.2%, respectively, from preoperatively to 3-year follow-up. Range of motion at 3 years postoperatively averaged 8.1°. Signals of heterotopic ossification were present in 5 patients (13.9%), and 2 patients (5.5%) were considered to have fusion after 36 months. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical and radiographic results of a laterally placed TDR have shown maintenance of pain relief and functional improvement over a long-term follow-up period. The benefits of the lateral access-minimal morbidity, avoidance of mobilization of the great vessels, preservation of the anterior longitudinal ligament, biomechanically stable orientation, and broader revision options-promote a new option for motion-preservation procedures.

Anterior elongation as a minimally invasive alternative for sagittal imbalance-a case series.

BACKGROUND: Degenerative and iatrogenic conditions may lead to flat back or even to kyphotic deformity, and sagittal imbalance can cause significant clinical impairment. Minor imbalance cases are usually treated with conservative care. Among currently popular surgical techniques for the correction of sagittal imbalance are posterior-based procedures, which are associated with access-related risks (mostly neurological) and postoperative morbidity risks. PURPOSE: This study aims to report a minimally invasive lateral approach using hyperlordotic cages in the treatment of mild sagittal imbalance. Radiological correction, clinical improvement, and safety will be analyzed. METHODS: Eight patients (mean age 71.8 years, SD 7.8; mean BMI 27.5, SD 2.3) with symptomatic sagittal imbalance were retrospectively reviewed. Eight cases were treated by anterior interbody fusion with lordotic cages. A minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal approach was used in the surgical procedures, with or without percutaneous pedicle screw supplementation. RESULTS: No major complications occurred and just one case needed revision for direct decompression. Clinical outcomes Visual Analog Scale score changed from 88 at preoperative visit to 51 at 1-week visit, and Oswestry Disability Index score decreased from 82 at preoperative visit to 44 at 6-week visit. The 6-month radiological assessment revealed improvement in spinopelvic parameters: Focal lordosis improved from 2.3° ± 7.7 to 27.1° ± 6.7. Sagittal vertical alignment improved from 11.7 ± 5.3 to 6.2 ± 4.0 cm. Preoperative sacral slope improved from 20.1° ± 5.8 to 29.4° ± 10.3 and preoperative pelvic tilt improved from 35.2° ± 5.2 to 23.8° ± 4.3. Short-term results indicate that the minimally invasive lateral approach can be applied to the treatment of mild sagittal imbalance, with special advantage in elderly patients or those in which posterior approaches are relatively contraindicated.

Lumbar total disc replacement from an extreme lateral approach: clinical experience with a minimum of 2 years' follow-up.

OBJECT: current lumbar total disc replacement (TDR) devices require an anterior approach for implantation. This approach has inherent limitations, including risks to abdominal structures and the need for resection of the anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL). Placement of a TDR device from a true lateral (extreme lateral interbody fusion [XLIF]) approach is thought to offer a less invasive option to access the disc space, preserving the stabilizing ligaments and avoiding scarring of anterior vasculature. In this study, the authors attempted to quantify the clinical and radiographic outcomes of a lateral approach to lumbar TDR from a prospective, single-center experience. METHODS: a TDR device designed for implantation through a true lateral, retroperitoneal, transpsoas approach (XLIF) was implanted in 36 patients with discography-confirmed 1- or 2-level degenerative disc disease. Clinical (pain and function) and radiographic (range of motion [ROM]) data were prospectively collected preoperatively, postoperatively, and serially for a minimum of 24 months' follow-up. RESULTS: thirty-six surgeries were performed in 16 men and 20 women (mean age 42.6 years). Surgeries included 15 single-level TDR procedures at L3-4 or L4-5, three 2-level TDR procedures spanning L3-4 and L4-5, and 18 hybrid procedures (anterior lumbar interbody fusion [ALIF]) at L5-S1 and TDR at L4-5 [17] or L3-4 [1]). Operative time averaged 130 minutes, with an average blood loss of 60 ml and no intraoperative complications. Postoperative radiographs showed good device placement. All patients were walking within 12 hours of surgery and all but 9 were discharged the next day (7 of 9 had hybrid TDR/ALIF procedures). Five patients (13.8%) had psoas weakness and 3 (8.3%) had anterior thigh numbness postoperatively, both resolving within 2 weeks. One patient (2.8%) demonstrated weakness of the leg ipsilateral to the approach side, which lasted through the 3-month visit but was resolved by the 6-month visit. One patient (2.8%) was found to have hypertrophy of the quadriceps contralateral to the approach side at the 12-month visit, which was resolved by the 2-year visit. Four patients (11%) had postoperative facet joint pain, all in hybrid cases. All patients were 2 years or more postsurgery as of this writing, although 3 were lost to follow-up between the 1- and 2-year visits. In 2 cases (5.6%), removal of the TDR device and revision to fusion were required due to unresolved pain. At 2 years' follow-up, the average visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index scores had improved 69.6% and 61.4%, respectively, and ROM averaged 8.6°, well within physiological norms. CONCLUSIONS: long-term results of a laterally placed TDR device demonstrate maintenance of pain relief and functional improvement. The benefits of this technique-minimal morbidity, avoiding mobilization of the great vessels, preserving the ALL, biomechanically stable orientation, and broader revision options-suggest a promising new direction for TDR procedures.

Opção minimamente invasiva lateral para artrodese intersomática tóraco-lombar / Minimally invasive lateral option for thoracic-lumbar intersomatic arthrodesis / Opción mínimamente invasiva lateral para artrodesis intersomática toracolumbar

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste artigo é mostrar resultados clínicos e radiográficos do acesso lateral transpoas na experiência brasileira em condições degenerativas do disco intervertebral. MÉTODOS: 46 pacientes foram submetidos à fusão intersomática lombar por via lateral. Dentre os casos, 18 eram do sexo masculino e 28 do sexo feminino, com idade média de 57,3 (84-32 anos) e média de IMC de 25,9 ± 3,1. Todos os pacientes completaram um ano de acompanhamento. Foram coletados exames radiológicos, como raio X e tomografia computadorizada, exame neurológico e resultados clínicos usando os questionários ODI e VAS (costas e membros inferiores). RESULTADOS: Os procedimentos foram realizados, sem ocorrência de complicações intra-operatórias importantes, em uma média de 103,9 ± 105,5 minutos e com menos de 50cc de perda sanguínea. Em oito dos 46 procedimentos (17,4 por cento) foi utilizada suplementação por parafusos pediculares percutâneos por apresentarem instabilidade segmentar. Foram tratados 80 níveis (de um a cinco níveis) tóraco-lombares (de T12-L1 a L4-L5). Os resultados clínicos avaliados pelos questionários revelaram melhora significante de dor logo após uma semana da cirurgia e da função física após seis semanas. A lordose lombar foi de 36,5 ± 14,7 no pré-operatório para 43,4 ± 12,4 no seguimento de 12 meses. Todos os pacientes apresentaram formação óssea após 12 meses da cirurgia. Sete casos foram revisados (15,2 por cento), ainda de forma minimamente invasiva devido à estenose persistente (três casos; 6,5 por cento), afundamento do espaçador (três casos; 6,5 por cento) ou mal-alinhamento de barra da suplementação (um caso; 2,8 por cento). CONCLUSÕES: Com melhora de parâmetros clínicos e radiológicos, a técnica se mostrou segura e eficaz no tratamento de condições degenerativas da coluna lombar.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to show clinical and radiological results of lateral transpsoas approach for degenerative conditions of intervertebral disc in Brazilian practice. METHODS: 46 patients have undergone lateral lumbar intersomatic fusion. Eighteen patients were male and 28 female. The mean age was 57.3 years (32 to 84 years), and mean BMI was 25.9 ± 3.1. All patients were followed up during one year. Radiology tests, such as X-ray and CT, and neurological tests were performed. The clinical results were obtained using ODI and VAS (back and leg) questionnaires. RESULTS: The procedures were performed during an average time of 103.9 ± 105.5 minutes, and less than 50 mL of blood loss occurred. Also, no significant intraoperative complication occurred. Supplementation with percutaneous pedicle screws due to segmental instability was used in eight of the 46 procedures (17.4 percent). Eighty thoracic-lumbar (from T12-L1 to L4-L5) levels (from one to five) were treated. According to the questionnaires, the clinical results showed significant pain and physical function improvement after one week and six weeks of surgery, respectively. The lumbar lordosis changed from 36.5 ± 14.7 before surgery to 43.4 ± 12.4 during one year follow-up. All patients showed bone formation 12 months after surgery. Seven cases were revised (15.2 percent), using minimally invasive approach due to persistent stenosis (three cases, 6.5 percent), depressed spacer (three cases, 6.5 percent), and malalignment of supplemental rod (one case, 2.8 percent). CONCLUSIONS: This technique showed to be a safe and efficacious treatment for degenerative diseases of lumbar spine as demonstrated by the improvement of clinical and radiological parameters.

OBJETIVO: El objetivo de este artículo es mostrar resultados clínicos y radiográficos del acceso lateral transpolar, en la experiencia brasileña, en condiciones degenerativas del disco intervertebral. MÉTODOS: 46 pacientes fueron sometidos a fusión intersomática lumbar por vía lateral. Dentro de los casos, 18 eran del sexo masculino y 28 del sexo femenino, con edad promedio de 57,3 años (84-32) y promedio de IMC de 25,9 ± 3,1. Todos los pacientes completaron un año de acompañamiento. Fueron realizados exámenes radiológicos, como rayos X y tomografía computadorizada, examen neurológico y se obtuvieron resultados clínicos usando los cuestionarios ODI y VAS (espaldas y miembros inferiores). RESULTADOS: Los procedimientos fueron realizados, sin ocurrencia de importantes complicaciones intraoperatorias, en un promedio de 103,9 ± 105,5 minutos y con menos de 50 cc de pérdida sanguínea. En ocho de los 46 procedimientos (17,4 por ciento) se utilizó suplementación mediante tornillos pediculares percutáneos porque se presentaba instabilidad de segmento. Se trataron 80 niveles (de uno a cinco niveles) toracolumbares (de T12-L1 a L4-L5). Los resultados clínicos, a los que se tuvo acceso por los cuestionarios, revelaron mejoría significativa del dolor, luego después de una semana de la cirugía y mejor función física después de 12 meses. La lordosis lumbar fue 36,5 ± 14,7 en el preoperatorio yendo para 43,4 ± 12,4 durante el seguimiento de 12 meses. Todos los pacientes presentaron formación ósea después de 12 meses de la cirugía. Siete casos tuvieron nueva intervención (15,2 por ciento), aunque de manera mínimamente invasiva, debido a la estenosis persistente (tres casos; 6,5 por ciento), hundimiento del espaciador (tres casos; 6,5 por ciento) o mala alineación de la barra de suplementación (un caso; 2,8 por ciento). CONCLUSIONES: con mejora de parámetros clínicos y radiológicos, la técnica se mostró segura y eficaz en el tratamiento de condiciones degenerativas de la columna lumbar.

A radiographic assessment of the ability of the extreme lateral interbody fusion procedure to indirectly decompress the neural elements.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective nonrandomized clinical study on the decompressive effect of the extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) procedure. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the results of interbody distraction from a lateral retroperitoneal approach for the treatment of lumbar degenerative conditions inclusive of central and/or lateral stenosis. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Traditional treatment for symptomatic lumbar stenosis has been by direct posterior decompression (i.e., removal of ligamentum flavum, laminotomy/laminectomy, facetectomy, as needed). Stenotic symptoms may also be alleviated indirectly, through correction of intervertebral and foraminal height and correction of spinal alignment. Anterior-only spinal procedures rely on this indirect decompression when used in patients with radicular symptoms. METHODS: Consecutive patients presenting with degenerative conditions that included concomitant lumbar stenosis were consented and treated via stand-alone XLIF. Pre- and postoperative radiographic measurements were made from plain lateral radiographs and sagittal and axial magnetic resonance imaging views by an independent radiologist using medical imaging software. Measurements included disc height, foraminal height, foraminal area, and canal diameter. RESULTS: In all, 7 male and 14 female patients (mean age, 67.6 years; range, 40-83) underwent XLIF at 43 lumbar levels in an average operative time of 47 minutes and with an average 23 mL estimated blood loss per level. There were no intraoperative complications. Mean hospital stay was 29.5 hours. Transient postoperative psoas weakness occurred in 3 (14.3%) of the cases. Substantial dimensional improvement was evidenced in all radiographic parameters, with increases of 41.9% in average disc height, 13.5% in foraminal height, 24.7% in foraminal area, and 33.1% in central canal diameter. Two patients (9.5%) required a second procedure for additional posterior decompression and/or instrumentation. CONCLUSION: The XLIF procedure provides the necessary decompression for the treatment of central and/orlateral stenosis in a minimally disruptive way, avoiding, in most cases, the need for the direct resection of posterior elements and associated morbidities. Indirect decompression may be limited in cases of congenital stenosis and/or locked facets. Its effect may also be reduced by postoperative subsidence and/or loss of correction.

Superiority of multilevel cervical arthroplasty outcomes versus single-level outcomes: 229 consecutive PCM prostheses.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Class 2 level of evidence: This is a prospective, consecutive series of 229 prosthetic implantations that were concurrently enrolled between single-level versus multilevel cervical arthroplasty comprising an FDA Pilot Study. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated multilevel cervical disc replacement in relation to single-level cervical arthroplasty to find if the same reduction in clinical success would occur with this alternative treatment. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Usually, the clinical outcomes of instrumented cervical fusions deteriorate as the number of vertebral levels of involvement increases. METHODS: A total of 229 patients presented with cervical herniated nucleus pulposus, cervical spondylosis, and/or adjacent segment disease with cervical radiculopathy or myelopathy. Following anterior cervical neurologic decompression seventy-one patients required porous coated motion (PCM) cervical arthroplasties from C3-C4 to C7-T1 (Group S, single level). Sixty-nine patients underwent 158 multilevel PCM cervical arthroplasties (Group M, multilevel) during the same time interval, for the same indications, performed by the same surgeons under the same clinical protocol: double level, 53 cases; three levels, 12 cases: and 4 levels, 4 cases. RESULTS: The self-assessment outcomes instruments showed significantly more improvement for the multilevel cases. The mean improvement in the NDI for the single cases was 37.6% versus the multilevel cases mean improvement in NDI was 52.6% (P = 0.021). The difference between the two was statistically significant. The mean improvement in the VAS showed the same association: single-level mean improvement 58.4% versus the multilevel cases mean VAS improvement was 65.9%. The Odom's were also more improved for the multilevel versus the single-level group: 93.9% versus 90.5% in the excellent, good, and fair categories. The reoperation rates and serious adverse events were similar between the single-level (S = 3) to the multilevel arthroplasty (M = 2) groups. Kaplan-Meier implant survivorship analysis at 3 years for the cohort of 229 prostheses was 94.5% (confidence interval, 1.00-0.820). CONCLUSIONS: This prospective study of cervical arthroplasty is the first report to date showing significantly improved clinical outcomes for multilevel cervical arthroplasty compared with single-level cervical disc replacement using an FDA validated outcome instrument.