The cross-sectional area of gluteal muscle on multiaxial CT scan as a predictor for diagnosing sarcopenia in patients with degenerative lumbar disease.

PURPOSE: This study examined the predictive value of the gluteal muscle index (GMI) for diagnosing sarcopenia in patients with degenerative lumbar disease (DLD), highlighting the need for effective diagnostic markers in this population. METHODS: This prospective observational study included 202 elderly patients scheduled for lumbar spine surgery. Muscle indices for psoas, paraspinal, and gluteal muscles were measured using multiaxial computed tomography. Sarcopenia was diagnosed per the 2019 Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) criteria. Statistical analysis comprised univariate and multivariate logistic regression to identify predictors of sarcopenia. RESULTS: Of patients, 77% were diagnosed with sarcopenia. The GMI and psoas muscle index (PMI) were identified as significant predictors of sarcopenia in the univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis confirmed their predictive value, with higher indices correlating with a reduced risk of sarcopenia (GMI odds ratio [OR] = 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.92-0.97; PMI OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.92-0.98, both P < .001). CONCLUSION: The GMI serves as a reliable predictor of sarcopenia in elderly patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery for DLD, suggesting a significant role of gluteal muscles in diagnosing sarcopenia. Incorporating GMI into clinical assessments is critical to better manage and diagnose sarcopenia in this population.

Significance of paraspinal muscle quality in risk between single and multiple osteoporotic vertebral fractures.

PURPOSE: To compare paraspinal muscle quality between patients with single and multiple osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) and evaluate the role of the paraspinal muscles in OVFs. METHODS: A total of 262 consecutive patients with OVFs were retrospectively analyzed in two groups: those with single OVF (n = 173) and those with multiple OVFs (n = 89). The cross-sectional area (CSA) and fatty degeneration of the paraspinal muscles were calculated from axial T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging at the level of the L4 upper endplate by manual tracing in ImageJ software. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to analyze correlations of paraspinal muscle quality to multiple OVFs. RESULTS: FD in all the paraspinal muscles was significantly higher in the multiple OVF group than the single OVF group (all p < 0.005). The functional CSA (fCSA) of the paraspinal muscles was significantly lower in the multiple OVF group than the single OVF group (all Ps < 0.001), except for the erector spine (p = 0.304). The Pearson's correlation analysis showed significant positive inter-correlations for the fCSAs of all the paraspinal muscles and the occurrence of multiple OVFs. CONCLUSIONS: The pure muscle volumes of the multifidus, psoas major, and quadratus lumborum were lower in patients with multiple OVFs than in those with a single OVF. Furthermore, the inter-correlation among all the paraspinal muscles indicate that the muscle-bone crosstalk profoundly existed in vertebral fracture cascade. Therefore, special attention to paraspinal muscle quality is needed to prevent progression to multiple OVFs.

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of conventional and biportal endoscopic decompressive laminectomy in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (ENDO-B trial): a protocol for a prospective, randomized, assessor-blind, multicenter trial.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies on biportal endoscopic spine surgery in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis have reported good clinical results. However, these studies have been limited by the small sample sizes and use of a retrospective study design. Therefore, we aim to compare the efficacy and safety of biportal endoscopic decompressive laminectomy with those of conventional decompressive laminectomy in a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial. METHODS: This study will include 120 patients (60 per group, aged 20-80 years) with 1- or 2-level lumbar spinal stenosis, who will be recruited from six hospitals. The study will be conducted from July 2021 to December 2024. The primary outcome (Oswestry Disability Index at 12 months after surgery) will be evaluated through a modified intention-to-treat method. The secondary outcomes will include the following: visual analog scale score for low back and lower extremity radiating pain, EuroQol 5-dimensions score, surgery satisfaction, walking time, postoperative return to daily life period, postoperative surgical scars, and some surgery-related variables. Radiographic outcomes will be analyzed using magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography. All outcomes will be evaluated before the surgery and at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. This protocol adheres to the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) guidelines for reporting of clinical trial protocols. DISCUSSION: It is hypothesized that the efficacy and safety of biportal endoscopic and conventional decompressive laminectomy will be comparable in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. The results of this trial will provide a high level of evidence for the efficacy and safety of the biportal endoscopic technique in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis and facilitate the development of clinical practice guidelines. Furthermore, the results of this study may indicate the feasibility of the biportal endoscopic technique for other types of spinal surgery. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The ENDO-B trial is registered at Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS, cris.nih.go.kr ) (KCT0006057; April 52,021).

Impact of Bone Mineral Density on the Incidence of Age-Related Vertebral Fragility Fracture.

BACKGROUND: Vertebral fragility fracture (VFF) is a common fracture related to osteoporosis. However, VFF might be asymptomatic and often occurs in patients without osteoporosis. Therefore, we investigated the characteristics of age-related VFF and their correlation with bone mineral density (BMD). Furthermore, we analyzed other factors affecting VFF. METHODS: Medical records from a single center were retrospectively reviewed for 2,216 patients over 50 years old with vertebral fractures conservatively treated from 2005 to 2016. Patients' age, gender, body mass index (BMI), BMD, fracture level, previous vertebral fractures, and anti-osteoporosis medications were obtained. Patients were divided into fragility/non-fragility groups and age sub-groups. The odds ratio for VFF in relation to BMD was evaluated. We also identified other predictive factors for VFF by age groups. RESULTS: The fragility group had a higher women ratio, older age, lower BMI, lower BMD, and greater incidence of previous vertebral fractures than the non-fragility group. VFFs were seen in 41.18% of normal BMD patients aged 50-59 and 67.82% of those aged 60-69. The proportion of VFFs increased with age in all WHO osteoporosis classifications. Patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis were 1.57 and 2.62 fold more likely to develop VFFs than normal BMD. In the younger group (under 70), age, women, BMD, and previous vertebral fracture were significant factors affecting VFF, and in the older group (70 and over), age, women, and BMD were factors. In the fragility group, anti-osteoporosis medication rates were 25.08% before and 45.96% after fracture. CONCLUSION: Considerable VFFs occurred in the younger age groups without osteoporosis and age itself was another important predictor of VFF especially in older age groups. The discrepancy between the incidence of VFF and BMD suggests the necessity of supplemental screening factors and anti-osteoporosis treatment guidelines using only BMD should be reconsidered.

Clinical Outcomes and Factors Influencing These Outcome Measures Resulting in Success After Arthroscopic Transosseous Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Foveal Repair.

PURPOSE: To analyze postoperative outcomes after arthroscopic transosseous triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) foveal repair and identify factors affecting the clinical outcomes. METHODS: This study retrospectively enrolled patients who were treated for TFCC foveal tears by arthroscopic transosseous TFCC foveal repair. The diagnosis of TFCC foveal tear was made based on medical history, physical examination, and magnetic resonance imaging, with confirmation via arthroscopic examination. Outcome evaluation was completed at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively, and patients were classified into 2 groups according to the minimal clinically important difference of the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation. Various factors including age, sex, trauma history, body mass index, symptom duration, hand dominance, ulnar variance, subluxation of the distal radioulnar joint, preoperative pain score, and functional status, as well as the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the pronator quadratus (PQ) muscle, were retrospectively analyzed using both univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: During the study period, 42 patients were treated for TFCC foveal tears. The functional status significantly improved after surgery. Overall, 27 and 15 patients showed good and poor functional outcomes, respectively, which were assessed according to the minimal clinically important difference of the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation. On univariate analysis, clinical outcomes were better in male patients (P = .035), younger patients (P = .022), and those with higher CSAs of the PQ muscles (P < .001). However, on multivariable logistic regression analysis, only a higher CSA of the PQ muscle was identified as an independent prognostic factor affecting clinical outcome after TFCC foveal repair (P = .004). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic transosseous TFCC complex foveal repair led to satisfactory results. However, lower PQ muscle CSA on magnetic resonance imaging was the most independent prognostic factor negatively affecting clinical outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Lunate subchondral cysts: Are there specific radiologic findings for patients with symptomatic ulnocarpal impaction?

BACKGROUND: There are few clinical studies evaluating the relationship between lunate cysts and symptomatic ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and relationship between lunate cysts and UIS by comparing data from patients with UIS against those without. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From March 2012 to January 2015, 375 patients who had undergone MRI or CT for reasons other than ulnar-sided wrist pain were classified into the 'asymptomatic group' (Group I). Thirty three patients who had been diagnosed with UIS were classified in the 'UIS group' (Group II). We determined whether any differences were present between the two groups and evaluated prognostic factors for lunate cysts. RESULTS: The prevalence of lunate cysts was significantly higher in Group II but only reached just above 50% (10.4% vs. 57.6%, p < 0.001]. Dorsal-side lunate cysts were more frequent than palmar side in Group I, while Group II had more cysts on the palmar side (74.4% vs. 52.6%, p = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that UIS and patient age was a significant factor for the presence of lunate cysts (odds ratio: 11.692, p < 0.001; odds ratio: 1.063, p < 0.001, respectively). However, positive ulnar variance or duration of symptom in Group II was not a predisposing factor for lunate cysts (odds ratio: 1.035, p = 0.598; odds ratio: 1.007, p = 0.877, respectively). CONCLUSION: Since positive ulnar variance or duration of symptom did not affect the formation of the lunate cyst and only slightly more than 50% (57.6%) of patients with UIS had a lunate cyst, it seems unlikely that these cysts are a pathognomonic finding. Surgeons can obtain some evidence from lunate cysts on radiographic exams, but care must be taken that this diagnosis is not made hastily or without due consideration.

Analgesic efficacy of two interscalene blocks and one cervical epidural block in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

PURPOSE: Despite its effectiveness in other surgeries, studies on continuous epidural block in upper-extremity surgery are rare because of technical difficulties and potential complications. This study compared postoperative analgesic efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided continuous interscalene brachial plexus block (UCISB) and fluoroscopy-guided targeted continuous cervical epidural block (FCCEB) in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). METHODS: Seventy-five patients were randomly and equally assigned to groups FCCEB (0.2%), UCISB75 (0.75%), and UCISB20 (0.2%) according to the initial ropivacaine dose (8 ml). The background infusion (0.2% ropivacaine at 5 ml/h), bolus (3 ml of 0.2% ropivacaine), and lockout time (20 min) were consistent. Respiratory effects [respiratory discomfort (modified Borg scale), ventilatory function, and hemidiaphragmatic excursion (ultrasound)], analgesic quality [pain severity at rest and motion attempt (VAS-R and -M), number of boluses, analgesic supplements, and sleep disturbance], neurologic effects, procedural discomfort, satisfaction, and adverse effects were evaluated preprocedurally and up to 72 h postoperatively. RESULTS: FCCEB caused less respiratory depression and sensorimotor block, but had less analgesic efficacy than UCISBs (P < 0.05). FCCEB caused nausea, vomiting, and dizziness more frequently (P < 0.05) and had lower patient satisfaction than UCISBs (P < 0.05). UCISB75 can cause severe respiratory distress in patients with lung disorders. Other variables were not significantly different between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: UCISB20 may provide superior postoperative analgesia and is the most recommendable postoperative analgesic method in ARCR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Randomized controlled trials, Therapeutic study, Level I.

Does whole-spine lateral radiograph with clavicle positioning reflect the correct cervical sagittal alignment?

PURPOSE: To evaluate the differences of cervical alignment between standing cervical lateral radiograph and whole-spine lateral radiograph with clavicle position. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated 101 asymptomatic adults from whom standing cervical lateral radiograph with hands on both side followed by whole-spine lateral radiographs with clavicle position were obtained from April 2012 to December 2013. On two radiographs, cervical sagittal alignment from C2 to C7 was analyzed by Gore angle (GA) and Cobb angle (CA); head position was evaluated using the translation distance (TD, distance of the anterior tubercle of C1 compared with the vertical line through the posterior-inferior body of C7) and McGregor angle (MA, angle between the McGregor and horizontal lines). T1-slope was also evaluated. RESULTS: Cervical alignment on the cervical radiograph (GA -13.59° [-15.58 to -11.60], CA -9.76° [-11.65 to -7.86]) was significantly more lordotic than that on whole-spine radiographs (GA -6.28° [-8.65 to -3.91] and -4.14° [-6.40 to -1.89]). TD and MA on cervical radiographs (TD 34.98 mm [33.22-36.75]; MA 7.20° [6.35-8.35]) were meaningfully higher than those on whole-spine radiographs (TD 31.31 mm [29.47-33.16]; MA 6.32° [5.25-7.39]), but the MA values were not significant (p = 0.064). T1-slope was significantly lower in whole-spine radiographs (20.11° [18.88-21.35]) than in cervical radiographs (24.37° [23.14-25.6]). Values are expressed as mean (95 % confidence interval). CONCLUSIONS: Clavicle position during whole-spine radiograph caused a substantial decrease in the T1-slope; head position posteriorly translated followed by the cervical sagittal alignment became more hypo-lordotic, with slight downward gazing in comparison with the cervical radiograph.

How should anteromedial coronoid facet fracture be managed? A surgical strategy based on O'Driscoll classification and ligament injury.

BACKGROUND: Despite an improved understanding of coronoid anteromedial facet (AMF) fractures, the optimal treatment protocol and technique have not yet been established. The goals of the study were to describe the characteristics of AMF fractures, to suggest a surgical strategy, and to report the outcomes after treatment according to this protocol. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of 19 patients with AMF fractures between 2010 and 2012. Eight patients were excluded because of secondary olecranon fracture, radial head fracture, and elbow dislocation, leaving 11 patients with isolated AMF fracture in the study cohort. There were 7 men and 4 women, with an average age of 42 years (range, 29-62 years). Fracture classification, injury pattern, and accompanying collateral ligament injury were analyzed. O'Driscoll subtype 1 fractures were treated with lateral collateral ligament (LCL) repair; O'Driscoll subtype 2 and subtype 3 fractures were treated with buttress plating and LCL repair. Plain radiographs were used to evaluate union, arthritic change, and joint articulation. Functional outcomes were evaluated with range of motion and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score. RESULTS: Two patients had O'Driscoll anteromedial subtype 1 fracture, 4 patients had subtype 2, and 5 patients had subtype 3. Two patients with subtype 1 fracture had associated posterior dislocation; 9 patients with subtype 2 or subtype 3 had associated varus posteromedial injury. All 11 patients had associated LCL injury, and 6 patients had associated medial collateral ligament injury. The mean range of motion was 128°, and the average Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 89 points. Qualitatively, patient outcomes were scored excellent in 4 patients, good in 6 patients, and fair in 1 patient. CONCLUSION: AMF fractures are almost always accompanied by collateral ligament injuries. Thus, our surgical strategies, which include collateral ligament repair, are able to stabilize and result in favorable clinical outcomes. On the basis of our results, we recommend LCL repair alone for subtype 1 fractures and buttress plating and LCL repair for subtype 2 and subtype 3 fractures.

Transpedicular Intravertebral Cage Augmentation Using Expandable Cage in Kummell Disease: Technical Note and Case Series.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the surgical techniques for transpedicular intravertebral cage augmentation (TPICA) using an expandable cage for Kummell disease, which requires posterior surgical stabilization, and provide the preliminary surgical outcomes. METHODS: Six consecutive patients undergoing TPICA surgery using an expandable cage with a minimum 6-month follow-up were evaluated. Radiographic analysis to evaluate the local kyphosis angle, restoration ratio of anterior vertebral height of the index vertebra, and clinical outcomes including the Oswestry Disability Index, EuroQol 5-dimension instrument, and visual analog scale for back and leg pain, were compared between the preoperative and final follow-ups. RESULTS: All patients showed improvements in all clinical outcomes and were able to walk independently without support at the last follow-up. In radiographic evaluation, the mean preoperative restoration ratio of anterior vertebral height was 41.2 ± 15.6%, which increased postoperatively to 70.3 ± 20.5% (1.70 times) and 62.4 ± 20.0% at the last follow-up (1.51 times). The mean preoperative local kyphosis angle was 10.5 ± 14.8 and was corrected to 6.0 ± 10.0 at the last follow-up. A slight loss of correction was observed between the postoperative period and the last follow-up; however, there was no clinical significance. CONCLUSIONS: Expandable cages in TPICA may allow easier surgical manipulation for cage insertion around the pedicle entrance, minimizing damage to the fractured vertebral body's end plates while achieving satisfactory height restoration compared to static cages, and may also provide wider indications for TPICA surgery.

Comparison of Postoperative Epidural Hematoma Formation Between Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery and Conventional Microscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Biportal endoscopic spine surgery (BESS) has become widely recognized as a minimally invasive method for spinal decompression and discectomy. However, postoperative epidural hematoma (POEH) presents a significant risk in spinal surgery due to its potential to compress neural elements and lead to neurological deficits. This study compares the clinical and radiological outcomes of BESS with those of conventional microscopic surgery. METHODS: In this single-center, single-blinded, actively controlled randomized clinical trial, 46 patients undergoing single-level posterior decompression or discectomy for spinal stenosis or herniated intervertebral discs were enrolled. Participants were randomly allocated to either the conventional microscopic surgery group or the BESS group. Experienced spine surgeons performed all procedures. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging assessments were conducted following the removal of the drain system. Outcome measures included the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the dura sac and POEH, as well as the incidence of neurological deficits. RESULTS: The demographic and baseline characteristics of the patients were similar across the 2 groups, with 24 in the conventional group and 22 in the BESS group. There were no significant differences in the preoperative and postoperative CSA of the dura sac between the groups. However, the BESS group exhibited a significantly larger CSA of POEH (0.36 ± 0.34 cm²) compared with the conventional group (0.17 ± 0.15 cm², P = 0.033). Despite this higher incidence of POEH, there was no corresponding increase in neurological deficits or revision surgeries. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that while BESS achieves decompression comparable to that of conventional microscopic surgery, it is associated with a higher incidence of epidural hematomas. Importantly, these hematomas did not result in an increased rate of neurological deterioration or the need for surgical interventions. Further studies with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up are required to confirm these results and further refine the BESS technique. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Despite a higher incidence of epidural hematomas, BESS offers comparable decompression to microscopic surgery without increased neurological risks, making it a viable, less invasive option for patient care.

Feasibility of the Non-Window-Type 3D-Printed Porous Titanium Cage in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Randomized Controlled Multicenter Trial.

BACKGROUND: Three-dimensionally printed titanium (3D-Ti) cages can be divided into 2 types: window-type cages, which have a void for bone graft, and non-window-type cages without a void. Few studies have investigated the necessity of a void for bone graft in fusion surgery. Therefore, the present study assessed the clinical and radiographic outcomes of window and non-window-type 3D-Ti cages in single-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion. METHODS: A total of 70 patients were randomly assigned to receive either a window or non-window cage; 61 patients (87%) completed final follow-up (32 from the window cage group, 29 from the non-window cage group). Radiographic outcomes, including fusion rates, subsidence, and intra-cage osseointegration patterns, were assessed. Intra-cage osseointegration was measured using the intra-cage bridging bone score for the window cage group and the surface osseointegration ratio score for the non-window cage group. Additionally, we looked for the presence of the trabecular bone remodeling (TBR) sign on computed tomography (CT) images. RESULTS: Of the 61 patients, 58 achieved interbody fusion, resulting in a 95.1% fusion rate. The fusion rate in the non-window cage group was comparable to, and not significantly different from, that in the window cage group (96.6% and 93.8%, p > 0.99). The subsidence rate showed no significant difference between the window and non-window cage groups (15.6% and 3.4%, respectively; p = 0.262). The intra-cage osseointegration scores showed a significant difference between the groups (p = 0.007), with the non-window cage group having a higher proportion of cases with a score of 4 compared with the window cage group. The TBR sign was observed in 87.9% of patients who achieved interbody fusion, with a higher rate in the non-window cage group across the entire cohort although the difference was not significant (89.7% versus 78.1%, p = 0.385). CONCLUSIONS: Non-window-type 3D-Ti cages showed equivalent clinical outcomes compared with window-type cages and comparable interbody fusion rates. These results suggest that the potential advantages of 3D-Ti cages could be optimized in the absence of a void for bone graft by providing a larger contact surface for osseointegration. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Effect of Furosemide on Prevertebral Soft Tissue Swelling after Anterior Cervical Fusion: A Comparative Study with Dexamethasone.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effect of furosemide on prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PSTS) after anterior cervical fusion (ACF) and compare it with the effect of dexamethasone. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Postoperative PSTS is a common complication of ACF. Dexamethasone has been used for its treatment; however, its efficacy remains controversial. Furosemide may reduce PSTS if it is soft tissue edema; however, no studies have demonstrated the effect of furosemide on PSTS after ACF. METHODS: The symptomatic PSTS group received intravenous (IV) administration of dexamethasone or furosemide. The asymptomatic PSTS group did not receive any medication. Patients were divided into the control (no medication, n=31), Dexa (IV dexamethasone, n=25), and Furo (IV furosemide, n=28) groups. PSTS was checked daily with simple radiographs and medication-induced reductions in PSTS from its peak or after medication. RESULTS: The peak time (postoperative days) of PSTS in the control (2.27±0.47, p<0.05) and Dexa (1.91±0.54, p<0.01) groups were significantly later than that in the Furo group (1.38±0.74). PSTS was significantly lower in the Furo group than in the Dexa group from postoperative days 4 to 7 (p<0.05). PSTS reduction after the peak was significantly greater in the Furo group than in the control (p<0.01) and Dexa (p<0.01) groups. After starting the medication therapy, the Furo group showed a significantly greater reduction in PSTS than the Dexa group (p<0.01). No difference was found in symptom improvement among the three groups. CONCLUSIONS: If furosemide is used to reduce PSTS after ACF, it can effectively reduce symptoms.

A Beginner's Perspective on Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery in Single-Level Lumbar Decompression: A Comparative Study with a Microscopic Surgery.

Background: The application of biportal endoscopic spinal surgery (BESS) in spine surgery is increasing. However, the clinical results of related studies have been inconsistent. In this study, the perioperative and clinical outcomes of two techniques in single-level lumbar decompression surgery were compared using the perspective of a spine surgeon experienced in microscopic surgery but inexperienced in BESS. Methods: This is a retrospective study performed with prospectively collected data. From April 2019, 50 consecutive patients who underwent a single-level lumbar decompression surgery with BESS were evaluated. Additionally, the data of 150 consecutive patients who underwent the same microscopic surgery before April 2019 were collected. We performed 1 : 1 ratio propensity score matching for these two groups to adjust for baseline variables. The postoperative patient-reported outcome measures included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and numeric rating scale for the back and leg preoperatively and at 6 months after surgery. The laboratory data (C-reactive protein [CRP, mg/L] and hemoglobin [Hb, g/dL]) were measured preoperatively and 3 times (1, 2, and 3 or 4 days) postoperatively. In these periods, the peak and lowest CRP and Hb concentrations were evaluated. The perioperative outcomes, operation time (from skin incision to dressing), length of hospital stay, drainage (for 24 hours after surgery), and surgery-related complications were also evaluated. Results: Forty-seven patients (27 men and 20 women) were included in each group. The postoperative 6-month ODI was significantly lower in the BESS group than in the microscope group (6.90 ± 5.98 vs. 11.54 ± 9.70). The peak CRP concentration (16.63 ± 19.41 vs. 42.40 ± 37.73, p < 0.001) and CRP increment (peak CRP minus preoperative CRP, 14.69 ± 19.47 vs. 40.71 ± 37.32, p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the microscope group. Operation time (83.72 ± 35.71 vs. 70.27 ± 23.24, p = 0.047) was significantly longer in the BESS group. Surgery-related complications were found in 6 and 3 cases in the BESS group (3 revisions, 2 dural tears, and 1 conversion to open surgery) and microscope group (2 revisions and 1 hematoma), respectively. Conclusions: BESS as a new technique resulted in satisfying short-term outcomes. It was a well-tolerated option for surgical treatment of single-level lumbar degenerative disease. The relatively high incidence of recurrence at the index level and incidental dural tears should be considered for surgeons new to BESS; however, these were manageable complications.

The Significance of Extra-Cage Bridging Bone via Radiographic Lumbar Interbody Fusion Criterion.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective observational study. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to analysis the distributional patterns of the intra- and extra-cage bridging bone (InCBB and ExCBB) and the significance of ExCBB using suggested lumbar interbody fusion criterion. METHODS: This study included the patients with planned single-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion. We divided bridging bone into InCBB (in void of right or left cage) and ExCBB (outside of cages; anterior, posterior, intermediate, right, or left) and graded bridging scores from 0 to 2 on postoperative 1-year computed tomography. The fusion was defined as at least having one or more graded 2 and the evaluation were conducted twice by 2 raters. RESULTS: Sixty-five patients were enrolled. All values of intra- and inter-rater reliability in left InCBB, anterior, and posterior ExCBB showed good agreements (≥0.75). Both InCBBs showed similar mean bridging scores (Rt:1.43 vs Lt:1.48), and in ExCBBs, the anterior was the highest (1.43), followed by the posterior (1.14); the right and left were the lowest (0.49 and 0.52 respectively). In subjects determined as fusion (85.4%), complete bridging was observed more in ExCBB (88.8%) than in InCBB (69.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Given the higher bridging scores in both InCBBs and Ant. ExCBB, bone grafting is important promoting factor to increase the interbody bridging bone regardless of outside or in void of cages. Based on our suggested criterion, ExCBB has a greater proportion compared to InCBBs for determining the fusion and extra-cage bone grafting should be considered as important procedures for interbody fusion.

Feasibility of Non-window Three-Dimensional-Printed Porous Titanium Cage in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Pilot Trial.

Background: The commercially available design of a three-dimensional (3D)-printed titanium (3D-Ti) cage can be divided into two types according to the presence of a window: a cage with a window that allows filling of bone graft materials and a non-window cage for stand-alone use. This prospective observational case series study aimed to explore the clinical feasibility of using a non-window type 3D-Ti cage in cases of combined window and non-window cage implantation. Furthermore, we evaluated the bone in growth patterns of non-window cages and their correlation with published fusion grading systems. Methods: A total of 31 consecutive patients who underwent single-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery were included. Two 3D-Ti cages with different designs were inserted: a non-window cage on the left side and a window cage on the right side. Radiographic fusion was defined by the segmental angle between flexion and extension radiographs (F-E angle) and cage bridging bone (CBB) scores on computed tomography. The association between the F-E angle and osteointegration scoring system including the surface osteointegration ratio (SOR) score was analyzed. Results: Radiographic fusion was achieved in 27 of 31 patients (87%) at 12 months postoperatively. Among the non-window cages, 23 of 31 (74.2%) had fair SOR scores, while 19 of 31 (61.3%) window cages had fair intra-cage CBB scores. The higher the SOR score was, the smaller the flexion-extension angle (SOR 0 vs. SOR 1: 6.30° ± 2.43° vs. 1.95° ± 0.99°, p < 0.001; SOR 0 vs. SOR 2: 6.03° ± 2.43° vs. 0.99°± 0.74°, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The clinical feasibility of using a non-window 3D-Ti cage during lumbar interbody fusion might be acceptable. Furthermore, a newly suggested fusion criterion for the use of the non-window cage, the SOR score, showed a significant association with the published fusion grading systems, demonstrating its feasibility in determining interbody fusion in lumbar spinal surgery.

Measurement of interspinous motion in dynamic cervical radiographs using a deep learning-based segmentation model.

OBJECTIVE: Interspinous motion (ISM) is a representative method for evaluating the functional fusion status following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery, but the associated measuring difficulty and potential errors in the clinical setting remain concerns. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a deep learning-based segmentation model for measuring ISM in patients who underwent ACDF surgery. METHODS: This study is a retrospective analysis of flexion-extension dynamic cervical radiographs from a single institution and a validation of a convolutional neural network (CNN)-based artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm for measuring ISM. Data from 150 lateral cervical radiographs from the normal adult population were used to train the AI algorithm. A total of 106 pairs of dynamic flexion-extension radiographs from patients who underwent ACDF at a single institution were analyzed and validated for measuring ISM. To evaluate the agreement power between human experts and the AI algorithm, the authors assessed the interrater reliability using the intraclass correlation coefficient and root mean square error (RMSE) and performed a Bland-Altman plot analysis. They processed 106 pairs of radiographs from ACDF patients into the AI algorithm for autosegmenting the spinous process created using 150 normal population radiographs. The algorithm automatically segmented the spinous process and converted it to a binary large object (BLOB) image. The rightmost coordinate value of each spinous process from the BLOB image was extracted, and the pixel distance between the upper and lower spinous process coordinate value was calculated. The AI-measured ISM was calculated by multiplying the pixel distance by the pixel spacing value included in the DICOM tag of each radiograph. RESULTS: The AI algorithm showed a favorable prediction power for detecting spinous processes with an accuracy of 99.2% in the test set radiographs. The interrater reliability between the human and AI algorithm of ISM was 0.88 (95% CI 0.83-0.91), and its RMSE was 0.68. In the Bland-Altman plot analysis, the 95% limit of interrater differences ranged from 0.11 to 1.36 mm, and a few observations were outside the 95% limit. The mean difference between observers was 0.02 ± 0.68 mm. CONCLUSIONS: This novel CNN-based autosegmentation algorithm for measuring ISM in dynamic cervical radiographs showed strong agreement power to expert human raters and could help clinicians to evaluate segmental motion following ACDF surgery in clinical settings.

Postoperative Segmental Motion up to 1 Year Following Single-Level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: Plate versus Non-plate.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective observational study. PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the impact of plating on postoperative serial segmental motion and its correlation with clinical outcomes in single-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for up to 1 year. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: The advantages and disadvantages of using cervical plating in ACDF have been well discussed; however, few studies compared the early serial segmental motions at the postoperative level between plating and non-plating. METHODS: In retrospectively collected data, 149 patients who underwent single-level ACDF for degenerative disease were enrolled and divided into non-plating (n=66) and plating (n=83). Interspinous motion (ISM) at the arthrodesis segment, Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for neck pain, and Neck Disability Index (NDI) were serially evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Predictable factors for fusion, including age, sex, plating, diabetes, smoking, and type of grafts, were investigated, and fusion was defined as ISM <1 mm. RESULTS: In both groups, ISM was the highest at 3 months and gradually decreased thereafter, and the plating group showed significantly lower serial ISM than the non-plating group at 12 months. The plating group had lower NRS and NDI scores than the nonplating group at 12 months, and the difference in the NRS scores was statistically significant, particularly at 3 and 6 months, although that of the NDI scores was not. In a multivariate analysis, plating was the most powerful predictor for fusion. CONCLUSIONS: Plating significantly decreases the serial ISM compared with non-plating in single-level ACDF, and such decreased motion is correlated with decreased neck pain until 12 months postoperatively, particularly at 3 and 6 months. Given that plating was the most predictive factor for fusion, we recommend plating even in single-level ACDF for better early clinical outcomes.

Evaluation of tunnel position of posterolateral corner reconstruction using 3-dimensional computed tomogram.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the isometry of different tunnel positions in posterolateral corner (PLC) reconstruction using 3-dimensional computed tomography. METHODS: In 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric knees, fibular tunnels were made from the anterodistal surface of the fibular neck to the posteroproximal fibular tip. Tibial tunnels were made from just medial to the Gerdy tubercle to a point 1 to 1.5 cm medial to the proximal tibiofibular joint. Femoral condyles were marked at 3 different locations: (1) epicondyle, (2) 5 mm distal-anterior to the epicondyle, and (3) 18 mm distal-anterior to the epicondyle. All specimens were scanned by computed tomography at different ranges of motion. Relative length changes between the tunnels were calculated by use of medical imaging software, and the center of rotation (COR) of each distal tunnel was obtained by use of a least-squares circle-fitting algorithm. RESULTS: The anterior fibular tunnel to lateral epicondyle and the posterior fibular or posterior tibial tunnel to 5 mm distal-anterior to the lateral epicondyle showed the best results in terms of isometry. The COR of the posterior fibular tunnel is distal and anterior to the epicondyle, whereas the COR of the posterior tibial tunnel is distal and slightly posterior to the epicondyle (8.4 mm away from the epicondyle, with a -8.4° angle along the longitudinal axis of the femur). The COR of the anterior fibular tunnel is located posterior and distal to the epicondyle. CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to our hypothesis, the distal tunnels for PLC reconstruction each have different isometric points. The isometric point of the posterior fibular tunnel is distal and anterior to the epicondyle, whereas the isometric points of the posterior tibial and anterior fibular tunnels are distal and posterior to the epicondyle. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The isometric pattern of each tunnel combination should be considered in PLC reconstruction; currently, popliteus tendon reconstruction is non-isometric.

An Updated Overview of Low Back Pain Management.

We aimed to determine the recommendation level for the treatment of acute and chronic low back pain (LBP). A systematic review (SR) of the literature was performed and all English-language articles that discuss acute and chronic LBP, including MEDLINE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, were searched. Of the 873 searched literature reports, 259 articles, including 131 clinical trials, 115 SRs, nine meta-analyses, and four clinical guidelines were analyzed. In these articles, high-quality randomized controlled trials, SRs, and used well-written clinical guidelines were reviewed. The results indicated multiple acute and chronic LBP treatment methods in the literature, and these reports when reviewed included general behavior, pharmacological therapy, psychological therapy, specific exercise, active rehabilitation and educational interventions, manual therapy, physical modalities, and invasive procedures. The Trial conclusions and SRs were classified into four categories of A, B, C, and D. If there were not enough high-quality articles, it was designated as "I" (insufficient). This review and summary of guidelines may be beneficial for physicians to better understand and make recommendations in primary care.