Clinical efficacy and imaging analysis of oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion in the treatment of different types of lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis.

PURPOSE: To analyze and study the clinical efficacy and imaging indexes of oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) in the treatment of lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis(LFS) caused by different causes. METHOD: 33 patients with LFS treated with OLIF from January 2018 to May 2022 were reviewed. Oswestry Dysfunction Index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS) were calculated before and after operation. Segmental lordotic angle (SLA), lumbar lordotic angle (LLA) and segmental scoliosis angle (SSA), disc height (DH), posterior disc height (PDH), lateral disc height (LDH), foraminal height (FH), foramen width (FW) and foraminal cross-sectional area (FSCA) were measured before and after operation. RESULT: The VAS and ODI after operation were significantly improved as compared with those before operation. Compared with pre-operation, the DH, PHD increased by 67.6%, 94.6%, LDH increased by 107.4% (left), 101.7% (right), and FH increased by 30.2% (left), 34.5% (right). The FSCA increased by 93.1% (left), 89.0% (right), and the FW increased by 137.0% (left), 149.6% (right). The postoperative SSA was corrected by 74.5%, the postoperative SLA, LLA were corrected by 70.2%, 38.1%, respectively. All the imaging indexes were significantly improved (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The clinical efficacy and imaging data of OLIF in the treatment of LFS caused by low and moderate lumbar spondylolisthesis, intervertebral disc bulge and reduced intervertebral space height, degenerative lumbar scoliosis, articular process hyperplasia or dislocation have been well improved. OLIF may be one of the better surgical treatments for LFS caused by the above conditions.

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

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

Incidence and sequence of scoliosis and windswept hip deformity: which comes first in 4148 children with cerebral palsy? A longitudinal cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The aim was to analyse whether scoliosis or windswept hip deformity (WSH) occurs first for children with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: This longitudinal cohort study using data from 1994 - 2020 (26 years) involved 41,600 measurements of 4148 children (2419 [58.3%] boys) with CP born 1990 - 2018 and registered into the Swedish CP follow-up program. Children were followed from a mean age of 2.8 [SD 1.4] years, until they developed either scoliosis or WSH or were removed at surgery. RESULTS: WSH developed first in 16.6% of the children (mean age 8.1 [SD 5.0] years), and scoliosis in 8.1% (mean age 8.1 [SD 4.9] years). The incidence of WSH was higher than scoliosis across all levels I-V of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), both sexes, and for those with dyskinetic (20.0%) or spastic (17.0%) CP. The incidence of scoliosis was highest (19.8%) and developed earliest in children with GMFCS level V (mean age 5.5 [SD 3.5] years), and in children with dyskinetic (17.9%) CP (mean age 7.0 [SD 4.7] years). CONCLUSIONS: WSH presents earlier than scoliosis in most children with CP. Children with higher GMFCS level or dyskinetic CP are more likely to develop these deformities at a younger age.

Orthopedic manifestations in children with Prader-Willi syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disease often associated with bone problems, mainly scoliosis and hip dysplasia (HD). This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics of orthopedic deformities in patients with PWS. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 175 patients up to March 2023. The Cobb angle(CA) of the spine, the alpha angle of the hip joint, and the acetabular index (AI) were measured. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between demographic parameters and bone deformities. RESULTS: Scoliosis was found in 66 patients (43.7%), including 52 (78.8%) with mild scoliosis, 10 (15.2%) with moderate scoliosis, and 4 (6.1%) with severe scoliosis. Only seven patients received orthopedic treatment (10.6%). The median age of scoliosis was 4.5 years old, and the prevalence of scoliosis increased rapidly at the age of 5 years and adolescence. The mean CA in this study increased gradually with age. HD was found in 47 patients (38.2%), and 6 patients received orthopedic treatment (12.7%). The median age at HD was 1.8 years old. The mean AI of the study population decreased with age. The prevalence of HD treated with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) was low. No significant differences were observed in sex, genotype, body mass index (BMI), obesity rate, or onset of scoliosis and HD. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of scoliosis and HD was higher in patients with PWS. The onset age and developmental trends of the different skeletal malformations were different. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for the prognosis and treatment of orthopedic diseases in patients with PWS.

Defining the Post-Operative Progression of Degenerative Scoliosis: An Analysis of Cases without Instrument Failure.

OBJECTIVE: The expected post-operative changes in radiographic alignment over time remain poorly defined in patients surgically treated for degenerative scoliosis without instrument failure. Here we aim to describe the optimal natural progression of radiographic degenerative scoliosis at multiple timepoints in patients treated with a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). METHODS: We identified an initial retrospective cohort of 114 patients treated with a TLIF for degenerative scoliosis between 2018 and 2022, with 39 patients ultimately meeting the imaging inclusion criteria. Patients who completed a primary or revision procedure with no evidence of instrument failure, proximal junctional kyphosis, or proximal junctional failure at last follow-up were included. Radiographic measurements of spinopelvic alignment were manually extracted from X-Ray scoliosis films. RESULTS: Thirty-nine patients (mean age 62.6 ± 8.7, mean follow-up 2.9 years), of which 23 underwent a primary TLIF (Primary) and 16 a revision procedure (Revision), were analyzed. Patients in the Primary group experienced a durable improvement in Thoracolumbar Cobb angle (-25° ± 15°), Thoracic Kyphosis (10° ± 13°), and Pelvic Incidence/lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI/LL) (-19° ± 19°) through the first year of follow-up. In the Revision group, at one year follow-up, all measures of spinopelvic alignment except PI/LL mismatch had reverted to pre-operative levels. Thoracolumbar Cobb angle decreased to a significantly greater degree in the Primary group compared to the Revision group. CONCLUSION: Primary TLIF operations without instrument failure consistently improve radiographic outcomes in three key measures through the first year. For revision procedures, there appears to be modest radiographic benefit at follow-up.

The Role of Liposomal Bupivacaine in Multimodal Pain Management Following Posterior Spinal Fusion for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Faster and Farther With Less Opioids.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective controlled cohort. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of intraoperative liposomal bupivacaine (LB) infiltration on postsurgical pain management in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients by analyzing postoperative opioid consumption, ambulation, and length of stay (LOS). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Optimal postoperative pain control for AIS patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) is challenging. Multimodal pain management protocols provide adequate analgesia while decreasing opioid consumption. LB was recently approved for pediatric patients; however, use in AIS patients is understudied. METHODS: 119 consecutive patients with AIS who underwent PSF were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups: patients who received LB as erector spinae block in addition to the standard postoperative pain management protocol (Group A), and patients who received only the standard postoperative pain protocol (Group B). Oral morphine equivalents, intravenous opioid and valium consumption, pain scores (VAS), nausea/vomiting, ambulation distance and LOS were assessed. RESULTS: Group A experienced significantly lower total opioid consumption compared to Group B (44.5 mg vs. 70.2 mg). Morphine use was lower in Group A on postoperative day (POD) 0, and oxycodone use was lower in Group A on PODs 1 and 2. There was a higher proportion of patients who used only oral opioids in Group A (81% vs. 41%). Of patients requiring any intravenous opioids, 79% did not receive LB. A significantly higher proportion of LB patients were discharged on POD 2 (55% vs. 27%); therefore, LOS was shorter for Group A. Group A ambulated further postoperatively. There were no differences in pain scores, valium requirements or nausea/vomiting. CONCLUSIONS: LB was associated with decreased total opioid use, shorter LOS, and improved ambulation in AIS patients undergoing PSF. Including LB in multimodal pain management protocols proved effective in reducing opioid use while increasing mobilization in the immediate postoperative period. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Do Pedicle Screws That Terminate in the Costovertebral Joint Compromise Proximal Anchor Fixation in a Dual Growing Rod Construct?

INTRODUCTION: Growing rods (GRs) are used to treat early-onset scoliosis (EOS) recalcitrant to bracing and casting. Proximal anchor pullout, a known complication of GR constructs, can result in spinal cord injury if pedicle screw anchors are placed with a lateral-to-medial trajectory. To mitigate this risk, a more straightforward and potentially safer trajectory may result in screws that terminate within the costovertebral joint (CVJ). We asked, how often does CVJ placement occur and does this technique increase the rate of failure in GR constructs? METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 35 patients with EOS treated with dual GR with >2-year follow-up excluding patients with skeletal dysplasia or history of previous posterior instrumentation. Patient demographics, radiographic parameters, and implant constructs were assessed. RESULTS: Of patients meeting the inclusion criteria, 18/35 (51%) were females with an average age of 7.96 (range: 4.0 to 15.2) years at surgery with a follow-up of 3.7 (range: 2.0 to 7.7) years. Five (14%) patients had idiopathic EOS, 5 (14%) had congenital EOS, 12 (34%) had neuromuscular EOS, 10 (29%) had syndromic scoliosis, and 3 (9%) had another etiology for EOS. Among 195 proximal pedicle screws placed, 19 (10%) terminated within the CVJ, and 13 patients (37%) had at least 1 CVJ screw. Two patients (6%) experienced unilateral proximal pullout. In both patients, the anchors on the affected side included 1 of 2 screws within the CVJ. Both patients had constructs that included 2 screws on the side that pulled out and 3 screws on the side that did not. None of the remaining 17 CVJ screws led to implant failure. CONCLUSION: Pedicle screw placement within the CVJ is common and does not appear to significantly contribute to proximal screw pullout; however, it may contribute to unilateral implant failure in constructs employing only 2 proximal screws, where 1 of those 2 screws terminates within the CVJ. Construct modifications should be considered in this scenario. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Radiation exposure in navigated techniques for AIS: is there a difference between pre-operative CT and intraoperative CT?

PURPOSE: Utilization of navigation improves pedicle screw accuracy in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Our center switched from intraoperative CT (ICT) to an optical navigation system that utilizes pre-operative CT (PCT). We aim to evaluate the radiation dose and operative time for low-dose ICT compared to standard and low-dose PCT used for optical navigation in AIS patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion. METHODS: A single-center matched-control cohort study of 38 patients was conducted. Nineteen patients underwent ICT navigation (O-arm) and were matched by sex, age, and weight to 19 patients who underwent PCT for use with an optical-guided navigation (7D, Seaspine). A total of 418 levels were instrumented and reviewed. PCT was either a standard dose (N = 7) or a low dose (N = 12). The mean volume CT dose index, dose-length product, overall effective dose (ED), ED per level instrumented, and operative time per level were compared. RESULTS: ED per level instrumented was 0.061 ± 0.029 mSv in low-dose PCT and 0.14 ± 0.05 mSv in low-dose ICT (p < 0.0001). ED per level instrumented was significantly higher in standard PCT (1.46 ± 0.39 vs. 0.14 ± 0.03 mSv; p < 0.0001). Mean operative time per level was 31 ± 7 min for ICT and 33 ± 3 min for PCT (p = 0.628). CONCLUSION: Low-dose PCT resulted in 0.70 mSv exposure per case and 31 min per level, standard-dose was 16.95 mSv, while ICT resulted in 1.34-1.62 mSv and a similar operative time. Use of a standard-dose PCT involves radiation exposure about 9 times higher than ICT and 23 times higher than low-dose PCT per level instrumented. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Utility of postoperative laboratory testing after posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

PURPOSE: With advancements to blood management strategies, risk of perioperative transfusion following surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has diminished. We hypothesize that routine laboratory testing on postoperative-day 1 (POD1) and beyond is unnecessary. The purpose of this study is to determine necessity of POD1 labs, particularly hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, following surgical management of AIS. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study of consecutive AIS patients aged 11-19 who underwent posterior spinal fusion (PSF) at a single institution. Univariable logistic regression was utilized to determine factors associated with hematocrit ≤ 22% on POD1 or a postoperative transfusion. Firth's penalized logistic regression was used for any separation in data. Youden's index was utilized to determine the optimal point on the ROC curve that maximizes both sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS: 527 patients qualified for this study. Among the eight total patients with POD1 hematocrit ≤ 22, none underwent transfusion. These patients had lower last intraoperative hematocrit levels compared to patients with POD1 hematocrit > 22% (24.1% vs 31.5%, p < 0.001), and these groups showed no difference in preoperative hematocrit levels (38.2% vs 39.8%, p = 0.11). Four patients underwent postoperative transfusion. Both preoperative hematocrit levels (34.0% vs 39.9%, p = 0.001) and last intraoperative hematocrit levels (25.1% vs 31.4%, p = 0.002) were lower compared to patients without transfusion. Intraoperative hematocrit < 26.2%, operative time of more than 35.8 min per level fused, or cell salvage > 241 cc were significant risk factors for postoperative transfusion. CONCLUSION: Transfusion after PSF for AIS is exceedingly rare. POD1 labs should be considered when last intraoperative hematocrit < 26%, operative time per level fused > 35 min, or cell salvage amount > 241 cc. Otherwise, unless symptomatic, patients do not benefit from postoperative laboratory screening.

Repeat surgical interventions following "definitive" instrumentation and fusion for idiopathic scoliosis: a 30-year update.

PURPOSE: Although spinal fusion (SF) is considered "definitive" treatment in juvenile/adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (JIS/AIS), complications requiring reoperation continue to occur. The purpose of this study was to characterize the evolving rates of reoperation following SF in JIS/AIS. METHODS: Single-center retrospective review of patients who underwent SF for JIS/AIS as their index surgical treatment between 2013 and 2019. Patient data were collected to identify complications requiring reoperation and factors associated with reoperation. Complication rates from 2013 to 2019 were compared to patients from 1988 to 2012 at the same institution. RESULTS: This study analyzed 934 patients (81.7% female, mean age at surgery 14.5 ± 2.1). Thirty-eight patients (4.1%) required a total of 47 reoperations, a > 50% decrease in overall complication rate from the 2008-2012 population (4.1% vs 9.6%, respectively, p < 0.001). The decrease stemmed mainly from decreases in rates of infection (1.1% vs 4.1%, p < 0.001) and symptomatic implants (0.4% vs 2.1%, p = 0.004). There were, however, non-significant increases in implant failures (0.6% vs 0.2%, p = 0.4367) and pseudoarthrosis (1.0% vs 0.4%, p = 0.5202). Both of these complications were associated with patients with a higher mean weight (implant failure: 70.4 kg ± 21.1 vs 56.1 kg ± 14.9, p = 0.002; pseudoarthrosis: 85.8 kg ± 27.9 vs 55.9 ± 14.5, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Reoperation following SF for JIS/AIS has decreased over the past 7 years when compared to 25 years of historical controls. The changing landscape of reoperation demands further research into the risk factors for those reoperations that have become more common.

The use of lateral lumbar interbody fusion for identifying adult patients with spinal deformities treatable by short corrective fusion in 2-stage surgery.

BACKGROUND: To investigate and compare the surgical outcomes of short and thoracopelvic corrective fusion with our two-stage technique using lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) and posterior open surgery. METHODS: Consecutive patients with adult spinal deformities who underwent a planned two-stage anterior-posterior surgery, using LLIF for the first stage and posterior open corrective fusion for the second stage, with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up were included. Patients who underwent lumbar or lumbosacral corrective fusion and thoracopelvic corrective fusion were categorized into the short group and thoracopelvic groups, respectively. We investigated the spinopelvic parameters and patient-reported outcome measurements. RESULTS: Seventy-four consecutive patients (8 men, 66 women; average age, 70.0 years) were included. Ten patients underwent short corrective fusion following significant improvements in the symptoms and radiographic parameters post-LLIF. Several preoperative spinopelvic parameters were better in the short group. Compared to the thoracopelvic group, those who underwent short fusion had a poorer alignment 2 years postoperatively but with comparable results and a significantly higher function score on the Scoliosis Research Society-22 r (SRS-22r) questionnaire. The mean Oswestry Disability Index and SRS-22r scores significantly improved during the 2-year postoperative follow-up in both the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Short corrective fusion can be considered in patients whose symptoms and radiographic parameters significantly improve following LLIF. Patients who undergo short fusion with LLIF application have poorer alignment than those who undergo thoracopelvic fusion 2 years postoperatively; however, the results are comparable, and the function score is significantly improved.

Plastic surgeon closure is comparable to orthopedic closure when a perioperative optimization protocol is instituted for pediatric patients with neuromuscular scoliosis.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Since 2015, plastic multilayer closure (PMC) has been gaining attraction due to improved wound healing outcomes for medically complex patients. Plastic multilayer closure has been readily used for complex spine surgery closures in patients susceptible to wound healing issues (ie, dehiscence, surgical site infection [SSI]). However, PMC requires extensive soft tissue manipulation compared with standard orthopedic spine surgeon closure (SOC) and can result in extended operative times, increased transfusion rates, and more frequent returns to the operating room. PURPOSE: From 2016 to 2019, our institution implemented a perioperative protocol designed to decrease postoperative complication rates in NMS patients. A retrospective cohort study was performed to determine if PMC imparted advantages over SOC above and beyond that from the perioperative protocol. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective study at a single academic institution. PATIENT SAMPLE: Eighty-one pediatric patients with neuromuscular scoliosis undergoing spinal fixation surgery. OUTCOME MEASURES: Postoperative wound complications such as surgical site infection, hematoma, and superficial/deep dehiscence were the main outcome measures. Respiratory and neuromuscular complications along with duration of surgery were also recorded. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of NMS patients undergoing spinal fixation at a single academic pediatric hospital over 4 years. Cases were labeled as SOC (n=41) or PMC (n=40) based on the closure technique applied. Reported 90-day complications were evaluated as the primary outcome. RESULTS: Of the 81 reviewed patients, 45 reported complications, roughly equal between the study groups. While we found no statistically significant differences in rates of postoperative complications or SSIs, SOC cases were 30 minutes shorter on average with fewer returns to the operating room for additional surgery. CONCLUSIONS: With the implementation of our perioperative protocol for NMS patients, PMC did not result in fewer complications than SOC but the surgeries did take longer.

Can We Control Lateral Shoulder Balance Through Proximal Thoracic Curve Correction in Lenke Type 2 Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?

BACKGROUND: Proximal thoracic curve (PTC) correction has been considered to prevent lateral shoulder imbalance in Lenke Type 2 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients; however, postoperative shoulder imbalance (PSI) commonly occurs despite these strategies with PTC correction. We investigated the hypothesis that PTC correction would not directly affect PSI in the majority of Lenke type 2 AIS cases. Furthermore, we investigated the risk factors for lateral PSI after corrective surgery. METHODS: This study examined the records for AIS patients with Lenke type 2 who underwent corrective surgery and followed up for >2 years. Patients were categorized into PSI (-); radiologic shoulder height (RSH)<15 mm, and PSI (+); RSH≥15 mm. Repeated measures analysis of variance was performed at preoperatively, postoperatively, 1 month, and final follow-up. Postoperative lateral shoulder imbalance was predicted by the identification of univariate analysis and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: Among the 151 patients reviewed, 29 (19.2%) showed PSI at final follow-up. Lateral shoulder balance parameters showed different directionalities between PSI (-) and (+) groups at postoperatively, 1 month, and final follow-up ( P <0.01 each). Preoperative PTC, middle thoracic curve (MTC) curve and MTC correction showed strong correlations with the RSH ( P =0.01, 0.03, and 0.04, respectively). However, PTC correction did not show a significant correlation with the RSH. Moreover, only a smaller MTC curve and larger MTC correction rate were related to lateral PSI in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: In Lenke type 2 AIS curves, the MTC curve and its correction predominantly influence lateral shoulder imbalance after corrective surgery, irrespective of the PTC correction extent. Consequently, overemphasizing the correction of the PTC curve may not necessarily lead to an improved lateral shoulder balance. When MTC curve is smaller, surgeons should be more careful for MCT overcorrection leading to a lateral shoulder imbalance. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Effectiveness of Orthotic Treatment on Clinical Outcomes of the Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Under Different Wearing Compliance Levels: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Wearing spinal orthosis for 16 to 23 hours a day during the teenage years could be challenging and stressful for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The investigation of clinical outcomes under various orthosis-wearing compliances can provide helpful insight into orthotic treatment dosage. This systematic review aims to investigate actual orthosis-wearing compliance and evaluate the effectiveness of orthotic treatment in controlling scoliotic curvature and preventing surgery for patients with AIS under various levels of orthosis-wearing compliance. METHODS: A literature search of 7 electronic databases, namely PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science, and Embase, was conducted on May 19, 2023. Participant characteristics, orthotic treatment protocols, compliance information, outcome measures, and key findings were extracted. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scales were used to evaluate the quality of included cohort and case-control studies. RESULTS: This study systematically reviewed 17 of 1,799 identified studies, including 1,981 subjects. The actual compliance was inconsistent and ranged from 7.0 to 18.8 hours daily. The proportion of compliant subjects in each study varied from 16.0% to 78.6% due to the heterogeneity of calculation period, measurement methods, and orthosis prescription time. Thirteen studies were investigated to determine the effectiveness of orthotic treatment in controlling curve deformity under different compliance groups, and 2 studies compared the compliance under different treatment outcomes. The rate of curve progression, defined as surpassing the measurement error threshold of 5° or 6° after orthotic treatment, varied from 1.8% to 91.7% across the studies. Ten studies defined the treatment failure, surgery, or surgery indication as Cobb angle progressing to a certain degree (e.g., 40°, 45°, or 50°) and reported failure/surgery/surgery indication rates ranging from 0.0% to 91.7% among different compliance level groups. CONCLUSION: This review found that the actual compliance with orthotic treatment was generally lower than the prescribed wearing time and exhibited wide variation among different studies. The electronic compliance monitors show promise in regular orthotic treatment practice. More importantly, the group with higher and consistent compliance has significantly less curve progression and lower surgery or failure rate than the group with lower and inconsistent compliance. Further studies are proposed to investigate the minimal orthosis-wearing compliance in patients with AIS treated with different types of orthoses. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Systematic Review. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Upper instrumented vertebrae selection criteria for degenerative lumbar scoliosis based on the hounsfield unit asymmetry of the first coronal reverse vertebrae: an observational study.

BACKGROUND: Selection of the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) is crucial for surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS), given the relevance of UIV in postoperative proximal adjacent segment degeneration (pASD). Our previous research found that selection of UIV not lower than (≤) the first coronal reverse vertebra (FCRV), which marks the turning point of Hounsfield unit (HU) asymmetry, could significantly reduce pASD. However, the degree of HU asymmetry can vary among patients, suggesting a demand for more individualized UIV selection criteria, which we aimed to develop using quantitative HU measurement in the current study. METHODS: We included 153 consecutive patients with DLS. Quantitative measurement of HU of both sides of the vertebrae of these patients was performed on three planes of CT reconstruction for average values and determination of FCRV. Pre- and postoperative X-ray plain films were examined for radiological measurements and determination of pASD. Further, 35 patients with lumbar disc herniation and without significant scoliosis were also included as the reference group, and their bilateral HU was measured. RESULTS: In all 153 patients, those with UIV ≤ FCRV had a significantly lower rate of pASD (9.4% vs. 24.6%, P = 0.011). The difference between HU of the left and right sides of the FCRV (dF) could range from close to 0-59.4. The difference between HU of the left and right sides of the vertebrae in the reference group had an average value of 5.21. In 101 dF ≥ 5 DLS patients, those with UIV ≤ FCRV had a significantly lower rate of pASD (7.6% vs. 28.6%, P = 0.005), while this rate was insignificant in the other 52 dF < 5 patients (13.3% vs. 18.2%, P = 0.708). No other general, radiological, or operative parameter was found to have significant influence on the occurrence of pASD. CONCLUSIONS: Selection of UIV ≤ FCRV can significantly reduce the risk of pASD for patients with DLS with dF ≥ 5. Trial Registration Not applicable, since this is an observational study.

Effects of Spinal Deformities on Hiatal Hernia Occurrence and Recurrence.

BACKGROUND: Spinal deformities such as kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis have demonstrated a possible association between these deformities. Our hypothesis is that the presence of spinal deformities will increase the risk of hiatal hernia recurrence after repair. METHODS: The following data was retrospectively gleaned for patients undergoing hiatal hernia repair (1997-2022): age, sex, date of hiatal hernia repair, presence and type of spinal deformity, Cobb angle, type of hiatal hernia and size, type of hiatal hernia repair, recurrence and size, time to recurrence, reoperation, type of reoperation, and time to reoperation. RESULTS: Spinal deformities were present in 15.8% of 546 patients undergoing hiatal hernia repair, with a distribution of 21.8% kyphosis, 2.3% lordosis, 58.6% scoliosis, and 17.2% multiple. There was no difference in sex or age between groups. Spinal deformity patients were more likely to have types III and IV hiatal hernias (52.3% vs. 38.9%, p = 0.02) and larger hernias (median 5 [3-8] vs. 4 [2-6], p = 0.01). There was no difference in access, fundoplication use, or mesh use between groups. However, these patients had a higher recurrence rate (47.7% vs 30.0%, p = 0.001) and a shorter time to recurrence (months) (10.3 [5.6-25.1] vs 19.2 [9.8-51.0], p = 0.02). Cobb angle did not affect recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Spinal deformity patients were more likely to have more complex and larger hiatal hernias. They were at higher risk of hiatal hernia recurrence after repair with shorter times to recurrence. This is a group that requires special attention with additional preoperative counseling and possibly use of surgical adjuncts in repair.

Overview of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and associated factors: a scoping review.

Around the world, idiopathic scoliosis accounts for the majority of occurrences of adolescent scoliosis. The absence of underlying congenital or neuromuscular problems distinguishes adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), which affects children ages 13 to 18, from other kinds of scoliosis. The prevalence of AIS is influenced by a number of variables, such as physical activity, gender, backpacks, body mass index, and others. AIS has an impact on the child's development not just physically but also psychologically, emotionally, and mentally. This study used nationwide databases to describe the prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and associated risk variables. The current review analysis showed that AIS was significant worldwide and that adolescent gender, physical activity, body mass index, backpack carrying and backpack weight were all significant risk factors for developing AIS.

Risk factors for intensive care unit admission following correction surgery for adult spinal deformity.

OBJECTIVE: The literature currently available on the characteristics of patients who require intensive care unit (ICU) admission after correction surgery for adult spinal deformity is lacking; this study aimed to identify risk factors for postoperative ICU admission following correction surgery for adult spinal deformity. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients who underwent primary posterior-based spinal fusion from 2015 to 2023 was performed. According to the ward they returned to, patients were further divided into an ICU group and a non-ICU group. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate preoperative and perioperative parameters to identify independent risk factors for postoperative ICU admission in adult spinal deformity patients. RESULTS: A total of 274 patients were included, including 115 males (41.97%) and 159 females (58.03%). The mean age of the patients was 32.00 ± 11.16 years (19-77 years). Following adjusted analysis, the preoperative and perioperative factors that were independently associated with ICU admission were age, body mass index ≥ 28 kg/m2, neuromuscular spinal deformity, respiratory disease, grade III-IV American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, a scoliosis Cobb angle ≥ 90°, a kyphosis Cobb angle ≥ 90°, and ≥ 12 fused segments. Compared with the non-ICU group, the ICU group had a higher incidence of complications, a longer hospital stay, and higher medical costs (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study identified independent risk factors associated with postoperative ICU admission in adult spinal deformity patients; and explored relative measures to decrease or avoid the risk of postoperative ICU admission. Surgeons could use these data to develop and plan appropriate perioperative care processes in advance and provide consultation for family members before surgery.

[Early-onset scoliosis: pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment]. / Escoliosis de inicio temprano: fisiopatología, diagnóstico y tratamiento.

Early-onset scoliosis corresponds to a group of heterogeneous spinal conditions that present before 10 years of age with a curvature in the coronal plane of 10° or more. Regardless of the etiology, adequate control of the deformity is required to avoid cardiopulmonary deterioration and preserve quality and life expectancy. Diagnosis can be difficult and is usually incidental at a young age. To choose the best treatment, it is important to consider the patient's age, etiology, and rate of progression. Among the non-operative treatments, the most effective are the use of serial casts or brace, whose main objective is to stop the progression of the deformity and thus delay surgical treatment. Among the surgical treatments the distraction based systems and definitive arthrodesis have proven to be most effective. Early surgery leads to multiple complications, which is why, if feasible, non surgical management should be sought and fusion postponed till skeletal maturity. Due to the life-threatening risks associated with the deformity and treatment, it is important to educate the patient and family members about the importance of treatment adherence and follow-up.

La escoliosis de inicio temprano corresponde a un grupo heterogéneo de padecimientos de la columna, la cual se presenta antes de los 10 años de edad con una curvatura en el plano coronal de 10° o más. Independientemente de la etiología requiere un adecuado control de la deformidad para evitar deterioro cardiopulmonar, disminución en la calidad y expectativa de vida. El diagnóstico puede ser difícil y habitualmente se da de forma incidental. Para el tratamiento, es importante considerar la edad del paciente, la etiología y la velocidad de progresión. Dentro de los tratamientos conservadores, se encuentra el uso de yesos seriados o el corsé, cuyo objetivo principal es detener la progresión de la deformidad y con ello retrasar la cirugía a una edad mayor. Dentro de los tratamientos quirúrgicos se encuentran el uso de barras de crecimiento tradicionales, las barras de crecimiento magnéticas y la artrodesis definitiva. Se ha observado que realizarlos de forma temprana condiciona múltiples complicaciones por lo cual, de ser posible, debe optarse por el manejo no quirúrgico y postergar el tratamiento definitivo. Debido a los riesgos potencialmente mortales que conlleva la deformidad y el tratamiento, es de importancia educar al paciente y sus familiares sobre la importancia del apego y el seguimiento.

Systematic Literature Review of the Natural History of Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Motor Function, Scoliosis, and Contractures.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a progressive neuromuscular disorder associated with continuous motor function loss and complications, such as scoliosis and contractures. Understanding the natural history of SMA is key to demonstrating the long-term outcomes of SMA treatments. This study reviews the natural history of motor function, scoliosis, and contractures in patients with SMA. METHODS: Electronic databases were searched from inception to June 27, 2022 (Embase, MEDLINE, and Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews). Observational studies, case-control studies, cross-sectional studies, and case series reporting on motor function (i.e., sitting, standing, and walking ability), scoliosis, and contracture outcomes in patients with types 1-3 SMA were included. Data on study design, baseline characteristics, and treatment outcomes were extracted. Data sets were generated from studies that reported Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves and pooled to generate overall KM curves. RESULTS: Ninety-three publications were included, of which 68 reported on motor function. Of these, 10 reported KM curves (3 on the probability of sitting in patients with types 2 and 3 SMA and 8 on the probability of walking/ambulation in patients with type 3 SMA). The median time to loss of sitting (95% CI) was 14.5 years (14.1-31.5) for the type 2 SMA sitter population (their maximum ability was independent sitting). The median time to loss of ambulation (95% CI) was 13.4 years (12.5-14.5) for type 3a SMA (disease onset at age younger than 3 years) and 44.2 years (43.0-49.4) for type 3b SMA (disease onset at age 3 years or older). Studies including scoliosis and contracture outcomes mostly reported non-time-to-event data. DISCUSSION: The results demonstrate that a high degree of motor function loss is inevitable, affecting patients of all ages. In addition, data suggest that untreated patients with types 2 and 3 SMA remain at risk of losing motor milestones during late adulthood, and patients with types 3a and 3b SMA are at risk of loss of ambulation over time. These findings support the importance of stabilization of motor function development even at older ages. Natural history data are key for the evaluation of SMA treatments as they contextualize the assessment of long-term outcomes.