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Objective:To evaluate the feasibility, accuracy, effectiveness and safety of a novel manual placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws via the posterior approach of cervicothoracic junction.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze the 35 patients with injury to the lower cervical spine or cervicothoracic junction who had been treated by a novel manual placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws at Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from March 2015 to July 2021. There were 16 males and 19 females, with an age of (52.7±13.2) years. The core of this placement was to determine the entry point of cervical 7 pedicle screws. After the intersection of the upper edge of the cervical 7 lamina and the medial edge of the superior articular process was recorded as point A while the intersection of the lateral edge of the inferior articular process and the lower edge of the transverse process as point B, the intersection of the outer and middle 1/3 of the AB line was taken as the screw entry point, with the screw placement angle perpendicular to the lamina line or slightly inclined from 30° to 40° to the head side and outward. The length, diameter and placement angle of the cervical 7 pedicle screws were recorded and compared postoperatively between the left and right sides to explore the feasibility of this novel manual placement. According to the Rampersaud method, the screw positions were graded 1 week and 6 months after operation to evaluate the accuracy of this manual placement. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score were compared between preoperation, 1 week and 6 months after operation to evaluate the effectiveness of this placement. The postoperative complications were counted to evaluate the safety of this method. Loosening, displacement and breakage of the screws were observed by CT scanning at 6 months after operation.Results:This case series was followed up for (9.8±1.7) months. There was no significant difference in the length, diameter or placement angle of the screws between the left and right sides ( P>0.05). A total of 66 cervical 7 pedicle screws were placed. There was no change in the screw position grading at 1 week or 6 months after surgery. Grade A was achieved in 64 screws, Grade B in 2 screws, and Grade C or D in none. The VAS scores before operation, 1 week and 6 months after operation were respectively 4.4±1.7, 3.8±1.0 and 1.1±1.1, and the JOA scores respectively 6.7±2.2, 13.2±1.5 and 15.3±1.2. The VAS and JOA scores at 1 week and 6 months after operation were significantly improved compared with the preoperative values ( P<0.05). The improvement rates in JOA at 1 week and 6 months after operation were 62.7%±13.3 % and 83.9%±11.6%, respectively. There were no complications related to the placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws; there was no wound hematoma or infection. No loosening, displacement or breakage of the screws was observed by the 6-month follow-up. Conclusion:The novel manual placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws via the posterior approach of cervicothoracic junction is feasible, accurate, effective and safe.
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Objective:To analyze the mortality of accidental falls among the elderly in China from 2004 to 2019 and predict the standardized mortality from 2020 to 2024, so as to provide scientific evidence for formulating strategies to prevent accidental falls among the elderly.Methods:The death data of accidental falls of the elderly in China from 2004 to 2019 were collected from the China Death Cause Monitoring Data Set, and the total number of deaths, mortality rate and standardized mortality rate in the elderly from 2004 to 2019 and those data among them of different genders, residences and age groups were calculated. Joinpoint 4.8.0.1 statistical software was used to calculate the annual percent change (APC) and average annual percent change (AAPC) of standardized mortality. The Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Model (ARIMA) was used to predict the standardized mortality rate of accidental falls among the elderly in China from 2020 to 2024. Results:The number of deaths related to accidental falls among the elderly in China was increased from 2 908 in 2004 to 23 709 in 2019. The mortality rate was increased from 51.89/100 000 in 2004 to 67.74/100 000 in 2019. The standardized mortality rate of accidental falls showed an overall upward trend from 2004 to 2019 (AAPC=1.65, P>0.05), including an upward trend from 2004 to 2010 (APC=1.66, P>0.05), a downward trend from 2010 to 2013 (APC=-9.67, P>0.05), and another upward trend from 2013 to 2019 (APC=7.83, P<0.01). The number of death and mortality rate related to accidental falls in Chinese elderly males and females both showed upward trends from 2004 to 2019, and the standardized mortality rate also showed upward trends from 2004 to 2019 (AAPC males=2.19, AAPC females=0.29, all P>0.05). The standardized mortality rate in males was generally higher than that in females, with that of males showing an upward trend from 2013 to 2019 (APC=7.36, P<0.05) and that of female showing an upward trend from 2014 to2019 (APC=6.92, P>0.05). The number of deaths and mortality rate among the elderly living in rural and urban areas both showed upward trends from 2004 to 2019, and the standardized mortality rate also showed an upward trend from 2004 to 2019 (AAPC rural = 1.71, AAPC urban =1.00, all P>0.05). The standardized mortality rate among the elderly living in rural areas was generally higher than that in urban areas. The rural and urban elderly both showed upward trends from 2013 to 2019 (APC rural = 8.24, APC urban =6.11, all P<0.05). The number of death and mortality rate of different age groups all showed upward trends from 2004 to 2019. The standardized mortality rates of the elderly aged 65-74 years and ≥85 years also showed upward trends from 2004 to 2019 (AAPC 65-74 years=0.38, AAPC ≥ 85 years=4.09, all P>0.05). The standardized mortality rate of the elderly aged 75-84 years showed a downward trend from 2004 to 2019 (AAPC=-0.10, P>0.05), and that of the elderly aged 65-74 years showed an upward trend from 2010 to 2019 (APC=5.35, P<0.05). The standardized mortality rate of the elderly aged 75-84 years and ≥85 years showed upward trends from 2013 to 2019 (APC 75-84 years=6.49, APC ≥ 85 years=10.47, all P<0.05). The ARIMA prediction results showed that the overall standardized mortality rates of accidental falls in the elderly in China from 2020 to 2024 were 69.11/100 000, 72.33/100 000, 74.41/100 000, 76.34/100 000, and 76.48/100 000, respectively, showing a slow upward trend. Conclusions:The accidental fall-related mortality among the elderly in China showed an overall upward trend from 2004 to 2019, and the standardized mortality rate from 2020 to 2024 also shows an upward trend. The elderly who are male in gender, live in rural areas, or at age of ≥85 years are the key population for prevention and control of accidental fall. Active and effective measures should be taken to reduce accidental falls in the elderly so as to contribute to active and healthy aging.
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Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of satellite rod revision surgery via a combined anterior and posterior approach for rod fracture after posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) in patients with severe thoracolumbar kyphosis.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted on the clinical data of 11 patients with rod fracture after PVCR for severe thoracolumbar kyphosis, who were treated in Henan Provincial People′s Hospital from January 2013 to January 2021. There were 6 males and 5 females, with the age range of 21-62 years [(35.4±13.0)years]. Among them, 4 patients had traumatic kyphosis, 4 presented congenital kyphosis and 3 showed tuberculous kyphosis. All the patients had obvious low back pain. According to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) score, 2 patients were found with grade C, 2 with grade D and 7 with grade E. All the patients underwent revision surgery for internal fixation using satellite rod via a combined anterior and posterior approach. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss and postoperative hospital stay were recorded. The imaging parameters such as kyphosis Cobb angle, scoliosis Cobb angle, distance between C 7 plumb line and central sacral vertical line (C 7-CSVL), and distance between C 7 plumb line and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) were measured preoperatively, at 1 week postoperatively and at latest follow-up. At the same time, the visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI), and simplified Chinese version of the scoliosis research society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire were used to evaluate the clinical efficacy. At the latest follow-up, the osteotomy fusion was evaluated by Suk criterion and ASIA score was used to evaluate the recovery of neurological function. The complications were also recorded for the patients. Results:All the patients were followed up for 24-84 months [(47.5±16.2)months]. The operation time was 100-220 minutes [(149.4±37.6)minutes], with the intraoperative blood loss of 150-350 ml [(246.3±64.6)ml] and the postoperative hospital stay of 5-8 days [(6.1±1.1)days]. The kyphosis Cobb angles [(18.5±3.2)° and (19.3±2.9)°] and the scoliosis Cobb angles [(11.8±2.2)°, (11.1±2.2)°] at 1 week post-operation and at the latest follow-up were all improved significantly compared with the preoperative ones [(60.4±6.3)°, (21.7±5.5)°] (all P<0.01), with the average correction rates being 69.4% and 45.6%, respectively, with no significant differences between 1 week post-operation and latest follow-up (all P>0.05). The C 7-CSVL was reduced from preoperative (21.2±4.3)mm to (15.7±2.4)mm at 1 week post-operation, and to (15.9±2.2)mm at the latest follow-up (all P<0.01). The SVA was improved from preoperative (51.0±6.8)mm to (16.6±3.6)mm at 1 week post-operation, and to (15.3±3.9)mm at the latest follow-up (all P<0.01). There were no significant differences in C 7-CSVL or SVA at 1 week post-operation or at the latest follow-up (all P>0.05). The VAS [(2.5±0.9)points, (1.9±0.9)points], ODI (20.1±5.4, 18.4±5.2) and SRS-22 [(83.4±5.8)points, (85.0±4.1)points] at 1 week post-operation and at the latest follow-up were significantly improved compared with the preoperative ones [(6.0±1.4)points, 57.2±8.7, (62.0±9.1)points] (all P<0.01), but no significant differences were found between 1 week post-operation and latest follow-up (all P>0.05). At the latest follow-up, the bone grafts achieved osseous fusion in all the patients, and the ASIA grade was improved from grade C to grade D in 2 patients and from grade D to grade E in 2 patients. No complications such as serious neurological or vascular injury occurred during perioperative period. No pseudoarthrosis formation, internal fixation loosening or fracture occurred during follow-up. Conclusion:Satellite rod revision surgery via a combined anterior and posterior approach for rod fracture after PVCR in patients with severe thoracolumbar kyphosis has the advantages of less trauma and faster convalescence, excellent results of deformity correction, significant pain relief, functional improvement, and fewer complications.
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Objective:To compare the effect of O-arm assisted and free-hand pedicle screw placement in the treatment of AO type C thoracolumbar fracture.Methods:A retrospective cohort study was used to analyze the clinical data of 34 patients with type C thoracolumbar fracture admitted to Henan Provincial People′s Hospital from January 2018 to June 2021, including 23 males and 11 females; aged 42-63 years [(50.4±7.4)years]. The fracture was located at T 11 in 4 patients, T 12 in 10, L 1 in 12, L 2 in 6, T 11~12/L 1 in 1 and T 12/L 1 in 1. Posterior reduction and internal fixation was carried out for all patients, of whom 18 were treated with O-arm assisted pedicle screw placement (navigation group) and 16 with free-hand pedicle screw placement (free-hand group). The operation time, single screw placement time, intraoperative bleeding volume, operation mode and screw placement accuracy were compared between the two groups. The kyphotic Cobb angle, visual analogue score (VAS) and American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) score were compared between the two groups before operation, at 1 week after operation, at 3 months after operation and at the last follow-up. Postoperative complications were observed. Results:All patients were followed up for 12-29 months [(16.8±6.1)months]. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the operation time, intraoperative bleeding volume and operation mode (all P>0.05). The single screw placement time was (9.4±1.6)minutes in navigation group, but was (10.8±1.5)minutes in free-hand group ( P<0.05). The screw placement accuracy was 97.4% in navigation group, but was 81.5% in free-hand group ( P<0.01). The kyphotic Cobb angle and VAS had no significant differences between the two groups before operation (all P>0.05). The kyphotic Cobb angle in navigation group and free-hand group was (4.3±1.1)° and (5.9±1.1)° at 1 week after operation, (4.4±1.2)° and (5.7±1.3)° at 3 months after operation, and (4.4±1.2)° and (6.8±0.9)° at the last follow-up, decreased significantly from that before operation [(21.8±3.1)°, (22.2±3.2)°] (all P<0.01). The kyphotic Cobb angle in navigation group was significantly lower than that in free-hand group at 1 week, 3 months after operation and at the last follow-up (all P<0.01). The VAS in navigation group and free-hand group was (3.2±0.7)points and (4.1±0.7)points at 1 week after operation, (2.4±0.6)points and (3.0±0.8)points at 3 months after operation, and (1.8±0.9)points and (2.6±0.7)points at the last follow-up, decreased significantly from that before operation [(8.4±0.8)points, (8.3±0.9)points] (all P<0.01). The VAS in navigation group was significantly lower than that in free-hand group at 1 week, 3 months after operation and at the last follow-up (all P<0.01). The ASIA score showed no significant difference within and between the two groups before operation, at 1 week, 3 months after operation and at the last follow-up (all P>0.05). Postoperative incision infection occurred in 1 patient in both groups ( P>0.05). Implant failure such as loosening or displacement was not observed in navigation group, and only occurred in 2 patients in free-hand group ( P>0.05). Conclusion:Compared with free-hand pedicle screw placement, O-arm assisted pedicle screw placement in the treatment of AO type C thoracolumbar fracture has advantages of rapid and accurate screw placement, good reduction and notable pain relief.
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The acute combination fractures of the atlas and axis in adults have a higher rate of neurological injury and early death compared with atlas or axial fractures alone. Currently, the diagnosis and treatment choices of acute combination fractures of the atlas and axis in adults are controversial because of the lack of standards for implementation. Non-operative treatments have a high incidence of bone nonunion and complications, while surgeries may easily lead to the injury of the vertebral artery, spinal cord and nerve root. At present, there are no evidence-based Chinese guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acute combination fractures of the atlas and axis in adults. To provide orthopedic surgeons with the most up-to-date and effective information in treating acute combination fractures of the atlas and axis in adults, the Spinal Trauma Group of Orthopedic Branch of Chinese Medical Doctor Association organized experts in the field of spinal trauma to develop the Evidence-based guideline for clinical diagnosis and treatment of acute combination fractures of the atlas and axis in adults ( version 2023) by referring to the "Management of acute combination fractures of the atlas and axis in adults" published by American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS)/Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) in 2013 and the relevant Chinese and English literatures. Ten recommendations were made concerning the radiological diagnosis, stability judgment, treatment rules, treatment options and complications based on medical evidence, aiming to provide a reference for the diagnosis and treatment of acute combination fractures of the atlas and axis in adults.
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Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) combined with spinal fractures with thoracic and lumbar fracture as the most common type shows characteristics of unstable fracture, high incidence of nerve injury, high mortality and high disability rate. The diagnosis may be missed because it is mostly caused by low-energy injury, when spinal rigidity and osteoporosis have a great impact on the accuracy of imaging examination. At the same time, the treatment choices are controversial, with no relevant specifications. Non-operative treatments can easily lead to bone nonunion, pseudoarthrosis and delayed nerve injury, while surgeries may be failed due to internal fixation failure. At present, there are no evidence-based guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of AS combined with thoracic and lumbar fracture. In this context, the Spinal Trauma Academic Group of Orthopedics Branch of Chinese Medical Doctor Association organized experts to formulate the Clinical guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of adult ankylosing spondylitis combined with thoracolumbar fracture ( version 2023) by following the principles of evidence-based medicine and systematically review related literatures. Ten recommendations on the diagnosis, imaging evaluation, classification and treatment of AS combined with thoracic and lumbar fracture were put forward, aiming to standardize the clinical diagnosis and treatment of such disorder.
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Objective:To evaluate the axial instrument strategy for atlantoaxial dislocation with complex vertebral artery variation.Methods:A total of 55 patients with atlantoaxial dislocation who underwent surgical treatment from January 2019 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, including 14 males and 41 females, aged 54.0±12.8 years (range, 22-78 years). Among these patients, 10 patients with unilateral vertebral artery high ride with contralateral vertebral artery occlusion, 30 patients with bilateral vertebral artery high ride with single dominant vertebral artery, 15 patients with bilateral vertebral artery high ride. All patients underwent posterior reduction and internal fixation. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score were used to evaluate the postoperative efficacy.Results:All patients completed the surgery successfully with a follow-up time of 14.6±5.5 months (range, 6-24 months). C 2 pedicle screw fixation was performed on the non-dominant side of unilateral vertebral artery high ride and the non-dominant side of bilateral vertebral artery high ride with one dominant vertebral artery (40 vertebraes). The dominant side of unilateral high vertebral artery and bilateral high vertebral artery with one dominant vertebral artery was fixed with C 2 medial "in-out-in" screw (10 vertebraes), C 2 isthmus screw (21 vertebraes), C 2 without screw (9 vertebraes) only extended the fixed segment. For bilateral vertebral artery high ride patients, one side was used C 2 "in-out-in" pedicle screws (right 10 vertebraes, left 5 vertebraes), and the other side was fixed with C 2 medial "in-out-in" screw (8 vertebraes), C 2 isthmus screw (5 vertebraes), C 2 without screw only extended the fixed segment (2 vertebraes). The JOA scores were 8.5±1.8, 13.9±1.3, and 14.4±1.1 preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and at the final follow-up, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=279.40, P<0.001). JOA at 6 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up was greater than preoperatively, and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05), whereas the differences in JOA scores at 6 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up was not statistically significant ( P>0.05). Preoperative, 6 months postoperatively and final follow-up cervical VAS scores were 3.7±1.9, 2.1±0.9 and 1.6±1.0, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=39.53, P<0.001). The cervical VAS at 6 months postoperatively and at the last follow-up was less than that before surgery, and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05). Cervical VAS scores at 6 months postoperatively were greater than at the last follow-up, with a statistically significant difference ( P<0.05). Conclusion:For patients with atlantoaxial dislocation with complex vertebral artery variation, C 2 lateral "in-out-in" screw, C 2 medial "in-out-in" screw, isthmus screw fixation or C 2 without screw only extended the fixed segment can obtain good clinical efficacy.
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Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of anterior cervical release and posterior fixation in the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation with retropharyngeal internal carotid artery.Methods:Thirteen patients with irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation of retropharyngeal internal carotid artery from January 2015 to July 2019 were treated with anterior cervical release and posterior fixation. There were 8 males and 5 females, aged from 34 to 65 years with an average of 46.1±12.6 years. Positive, lateral and dynamic X-ray films, MR and CTA were performed before operation. There were 4 cases with bilateral retropharyngeal internal carotid artery and 9 cases with unilateral retropharyngeal internal pharyngeal artery. The time of operation, the amount of bleeding and intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. The main observations were Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, atlantodental interval (ADI), Chamberlain line (CL), and changes in the morphology of the retropharyngeal internal carotid artery and implant fusion.Results:All the operations completed successfully. The operation time was 210-260 min, the average was 245±21 min; the blood loss was 350-600 ml, the average blood loss was 490±107 ml. There was no injury of internal carotid artery, vertebral artery, spinal cord or nerve root during the operation. All patients were followed up for 9 to 24 months, with an average of 15.1±6.2 months. Preoperative JOA score was 6.9±2.3 points, 1 month after operation was 13.5±2.5 points, and the last follow-up was 14.3±2.1 points. The difference was statistically significant ( F=30.91, P<0.001). The difference between 1 month after operation and before operation was statistically significant ( P<0.001), and the improvement rate of JOA score was 75.6%±15.2%. There was no significant difference between the last follow-up and 1 month after operation ( P>0.05). The preoperative ADI was 8.9±2.2 mm, 1 month after operation was 1.1±0.8 mm, and the last follow-up was 1.2±0.9 mm. The difference was statistically significant ( F=114.69, P<0.001). The difference between 1 month after operation and before operation was statistically significant ( P<0.001), and ADI had returned to normal level. There was no significant difference between the last follow-up and 1 month after operation ( P>0.05). The preoperative CL was 11.7±4.8 mm, 1 month after operation was 1.6±2.1 mm, and the last follow-up was 1.8±2.3 mm. The difference was statistically significant ( F=34.19, P<0.001). The difference between 1 month after operation and before operation was statistically significant ( P<0.001), and the position of odontoid process returned to normal level. There was no significant difference between the last follow-up and 1 month after operation ( P>0.05). Bone graft fusion was received at 6 to 12 months after operation, with an average of 10.2 months. Conclusion:CTA examination should be performed before anterior release of atlantoaxial dislocation to understand the position and shape of internal carotid artery. Anterior cervical release combined with posterior bone graft fusion is an effective method for the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation with retropharyngeal internal carotid artery without increasing the risk of internal carotid artery injury.
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Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy and precautions of O-arm combined with navigation-assisted steotomy and hemivertebra resection for congenital cervicothoracic hemivertebra.Methods:From February 2016 to October 2020, the clinical data of 12 patients with cervicothoracic hemivertebra admitted in Henan Provincial People's Hospital were retrospectively analyzed, including 5 males and 7 females, aged 9.4±2.6 years (range, 4-15 years). Intraoperative neural monitoring system was used to ensure the safety of surgical correction process and O-arm navigation system assisted the implantation of pedicle screws,hemivertebra resection, and scoliosis deformity correction. Postoperative CT was used to evaluate the accuracy of screw placement, and routine preoperative and postoperative X-ray films of the full-length spine in standing position were taken to measure the coronal and sagittal Cobb angles. The correction rate of scoliosis and kyphosis, internal fixation, shoulder height difference and bone graft fusion were calculated at the final follow-up.Results:A total of 108 pedicle screws were inserted in 12 patients, and the screw placement accuracy rate was 96.3% (104/108). The follow-up time was 37.9±10.2 months (range, 24-61 months). The number of fused segments was 5.4±1.1 (range, 4-7). One week after surgery, the correction rate of Cobb angle was 78.5%±3.2% for scoliosis and 70.1%±5.4% for kyphosis. There were statistically significant differences in side and kyphosis Angle and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 score between preoperative and 1 week after surgery ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the operation and the last follow-up ( P>0.05). At the last follow-up, all the 12 patients achieved gradeⅠ fusion. SI was 2.4±0.8 cm before operation, 1.0±0.6 cm at 1 week after operation, and 0.7±0.5 cm at last follow-up, and the difference was statistically significant ( F=38.30, P<0.001). No pseudojoint formation, significant loss of correction Angle, or rupture of internal fixation relaxant occurred during the operation or during follow-up. Conclusion:O-arm combined with navigation-assisted steotomy and hemivertebra resection for the treatment of congenital cervicothoracic hemivertebra has the advantages of good orthopedic effect, reduced radiation exposure and fewer complications, and accurate pedicle screw implantation and hemivertebra resection.
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Osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture in the elderly will seriously reduce their quality of life and life expectancy. For osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture in the elderly, spinal reconstruction is necessary, which should comprehensively consider factors such as the physical condition, fracture type, clinical characteristics and osteoporosis degree. While there lacks relevant clinical norms or guidelines on selection of spinal reconstruction strategies. In order to standardize the concept of spinal reconstruction for osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture in the elderly, based on the principles of scientificity, practicality and progressiveness, the authors formulated the Clinical guideline for spinal reconstruction of osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture in elderly patients ( version 2022), in which suggestions based on evidence of evidence-based medicine were put forward upon 10 important issues related to the fracture classification, non-operative treatment strategies and surgical treatment strategies in spinal reconstruction after osteoporosis thoracolumbar fracture in the elderly, hoping to provide a reference for clinical treatment.
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Objective:To evaluate the clinical efficacy of cervical anterior approach atlantodentoplasty for the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation complicated with bony abnormality of atlanto-dental joint.Methods:Retrospective analysis was conducted to study the clinical data of 31 patients with irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation complicated with bony abnormality of atlanto-dental joint, including 7 males and 24 females; age ranged from 23 to 74 years, with an average of 49.0±12.0 years. All patients underwent cervical anterior approach soft tissue release, atlantodentoplasty and one-stage posterior occipito-cervical fixation and fusion. Twenty-one patients with atlantodental osteoarthritis underwent simplex atlantodental osteophyte resection, 5 patients with anterior tubercle hypertrophy of atlas and 5 patients with anterior tubercle hypertrophy of atlas and atlantodental osteoarthritis underwent atlantodental osteophyte resection and partial anterior tubercle resection. The operation time and blood loss of anterior procedure and total procedure were recorded. The anterior tubercle thickness (ATT), the atlantodental interval (ADI)were recorded before and 1 week after the operation. The available space of the cord (SAC), clivus-canal angle (CCA), cervicomedullaryangle (CMA), and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores were recorded before the operation, 1 week, 3 months and 12 months after the operation, and at the last follow-up. The JOA improvement rate at the last follow-up was calculated, the time of postoperative bone graft fusion was recorded, and the complications were observed.Results:All patients were followed up for 12-60 months, with an average of 34.5±13.8 months. The operation time of anterior cervical atlantodentoplasty was 120.9±15.9 min, and the overall operation time was 315.1±31.4 min; The blood loss of anterior procedure was 101.2±31.2 ml, and that of overall procedure was 372.7±56.0 ml. The one week postoperative ATT (7.4±1.6 mm) of patients with anterior tubercle partial resection of atlas was lower than that before operation 10.8±1.5 mm ( t=4.94, P=0.001). The one week postoperative ADI 0.9±1.2 mm decreased compared with the preoperative ADI 8.3±2.2 mm ( t=17.91, P<0.001). The preoperative SAC was 10.4±2.8 mm, which increased to 19.2±3.6 mm one week after operation and 19.4±3.7 mm ( F=41.31, P<0.001) at last follow-up. The preoperative CCA was 119.4°±17.9°, which increased to 142.6°±13.0° one week after operation and 141.6°±12.2° ( F=35.86, P<0.001) at last follow-up. The preoperative CMA was 121.7°±14.1°, which increased to 148.9°±9.4° one week after operation and 149.4°±9.0° ( F=52.07, P<0.001) at last follow-up. The preoperative JOA score was 12.0±2.6, which was 14.3±1.3 one week after operation and 15.9±1.0 ( F=23.81, P<0.001) at last follow-up. JOA improvement rate was 78.9%±17.1%, while 23 cases were excellent (74.2%), 8 cases were good (25.8%), and the excellent and good rate was 100%; Thd fusion time of grafted bone was 5.7±1.5 months with the fusion rate of 100%; There were 12 patients with dysphagia after operation, all of which relieved spontaneously 5-10 days after operation; There were 3 cases of irritating choking after drinking or eating, and 2 cases were gradually alleviated 3-5 days after operation. One case was complicated with aspiration pneumonia due to stubborn choking, which gradually alleviated after 1 month of nasal feeding. No hardware failure or reduction loss, no serious complications such as esophageal injury, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, incision infection or vertebral artery injury occurred. Conclusion:Cervical anterior approach atlantodentoplasty for the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation complicated with bony abnormality of atlanto-dental joint can anatomically reduce the atlantoaxial joint, and the clinical effect is satisfactory.
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Objective:To explore the clinical effect of the 3D printing pre-installed screw channel model in assisting screw placement of single complete segmented congenital hemivertebrectomy.Methods:Clinical data of 13 children treated with single complete segmented congenital hemivertebrectomy in the Department of Spine and Spinal Surgery of Henan Provincial People′s Hospital from August 2016 to January 2019 were retrospectively analyzed.Among them, there were 5 males and 8 females with the mean age of 9.9 (5-14) years.Categorized by the lesion location, 3 cases were located at T 9, 2 cases at T 10, 5 cases at T 11, 1 case at T 12, and 2 cases at L 1.During the operation, the 3D printing pre-installed screw channel model was used to assist the placement of pedicle screws.The accuracy of screw placement was assessed by the postoperative CT.All children were routinely examined by full-length anterior and lateral X-ray of spine in the standing position before and after surgery to measure the Cobb angles at the coronal and sagittal view.Furthermore, the correction rate of scoliosis and kyphosis after surgery and during follow-up was also calculated.The One-Way repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the Cobb angle of scoliosis and kyphosis before surgery, after surgery and during follow-up. Results:A total of 85 pedicle screws were placed in 13 children, with the accuracy rate of screw placement of 95.3%.The mean surgery time and intraoperative blood loss were (216.9±28.3) min, and (478.5±132.6) mL, respectively.Scoliosis Cobb was corrected from (57.1±12.7)° to (12.7±4.7)° with a correction rate of (78.4±5.9)%, which was (14.2±7.0)° at the last follow-up.Kyphosis angle was corrected from (46.2±8.4)° to (13.2±4.4)° with a correction rate of (72.6±7.0)%, which was (14.0±3.4)° at the last follow-up.None of the children had serious complications like vascular and nerve damage.The mean postoperative follow-up was 12.3 (6-18) months.No significant loss of angle was detected during the follow-up period.There were significant differences in the lateral and kyphotic angles after surgery and during follow-up compared with preoperative ones (all P<0.05). No significant difference was detected between the postoperative lateral and kyphotic angles and those at the last follow-up (all P>0.05). Conclusion:The 3D printing pre-installed screw channel model used to assist screw placement of single complete segmented congenital hemivertebrectomy can improve the precision of screw placement and the orthopedic effect on lateral kyphosis.
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Objective:To observe the effect of insertion of in-out-in axis pedicle screws on the vertebral artery in the posterior occipitocervical surgery for atlantoaxial subluxation or instability.Methods:The data of 52 patients with atlantoaxial dislocation or instability were analyzed who had been treated by internal fixation with in-out-in pedicle screws in the posterior occipitocervical surgery from January 2015 to February 2021 at Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital. There were 30 males and 22 females, aged from 17 to 65 years (mean, 41.2 years). There were 26 cases of unilateral vertebral artery high-riding, 3 cases of bilateral high-riding, 19 cases of unilateral narrow pedicle due to C2 and C3 fusion, and 4 cases of bilateral narrow pedicles. X-ray, CTA and MRI were performed before and 3 days after surgery. The patients' clinical symptoms were recorded. CTA was used to measure the diameter of the vertebral artery at the transverse foramina of C 2 and C 3 and to observe the effect of in-out-in screws on the morphology of the vertebral artery. X-ray and CT examinations were performed at 6 months after surgery to observe the bone fusion. Results:The surgery went on uneventfully in all the patients. In the 9 cases undergoing anterior and posterior surgery, the operation time averaged 271.2 min (from 213 to 352 min) and the bleeding volume 471.5 mL (from 230 to 830 mL). In the 43 cases undergoing posterior surgery, the operation time averaged 171.6 min (from 131 to 226 min) and the bleeding volume 395.9 mL (from 170 to 660 mL). There was no such complication as spinal or vascular injury. The CTA reexamination 3 days after surgery showed that the diameter of the vertebral artery was (2.92±0.55) mm and (3.04±0.54) mm, respectively at the cervical 2 and 3 transverse foramina, showing no significant change compared with the preoperative values [(2.91±0.68) mm and (3.11±0.50) mm] ( P>0.05) and that the vertebral artery was displaced externally and inferiorly in 21 cases. Follow-ups for all patients ranged from 7 to 24 months (mean, 11 months). At 6 months after surgery, bone fusion was observed by imaging and no breakage or displacement of the internal fixation was observed. Conclusion:The in-out-in pedicle screws in the posterior occipitocervical surgery may have little impact on the vertebral artery, leading to reliable clinical outcomes.
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Objective:To analyze the postoperative paravertebral muscle degeneration and its correlations with health related quality of life (HRQL) in patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery-transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF).Methods:The clinical data of the 50 patients were retrospectively analyzed who had undergone single-segmental MIS-TLIF at Department of Spinal Cord Surgery, The People's Hospital of Henan Province from January 2019 to December 2021. The relative volumes of lumbar posterior muscle (LM), the relative volumes of the psoas major (PM), and the rates of fatty degeneration (FD) of the fused segment and its adjacent segments were compared respectively between preoperation, 6 and 12 months postoperation. The correlations were analyzed between the HRQL scores [visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and Oswestry disability index (ODI)] and the relative LM volumes, the relative PM volumes, and the FD rates of the fused segment and its adjacent segments at 12 months postoperation.Results:Compared with the preoperative values, the relative LM volumes and the relative PM volumes of the fused segment and its adjacent segments at 6 and 12 months postoperation were significantly reduced while the FD rates significantly increased. However, the FD rate of the fused segment at 12 months postoperation (20.6% ± 6.1%) was significantly lower than that at 6 months postoperation (29.7% ± 8.2%) ( P < 0.05). The VAS score was strongly negatively or positively correlated with the relative LM volume ( r = -0.819, P < 0.001) and the FD rate ( r = 0.86, P < 0.001) of the fused segment, and moderately negatively correlated with the relative PM volume ( r = -0.435, P = 0.016). The ODI index was moderately negatively correlated with the relative LM volume ( r = -0.512, P = 0.004) and the relative PM volume ( r = -0.402, P = 0.020) of the fused segment, but moderately positively correlated with the FD rate of the fused segment ( r = 0.565, P = 0.001). There was a moderate negative correlation between the ODI index and the relative LM volume of the adjacent segments ( r = -0.478, P = 0.012). Conclusions:After MIS-TLIF, the volume of the paravertebral muscles decreases and the dorsal muscles develop fatty degeneration. The improvement of LM fatty degeneration may be observed by 12-month follow-up in the fused segment, but not in the adjacent segments. The LM volume and the FD rate of the fused segment are the most closely related to the postoperative HRQL.
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Objective:To investigate the effects of different surgical time points on the treatment efficacy of acute traumatic central cord syndrome (ATCCS).Methods:Retrospectively analyzed were the 84 ATCCS patients who had been treated at Department of Spinal Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital from January 2013 to February 2021. According to the surgical timing, the patients were divided into 3 groups. In group A (surgery < 48 hours) of 16 cases, there were 11 males and 5 females, aged from 43 to 76 years; in group B (surgery within 3 to 7 days) of 41 cases, there were 31 males and 10 females, aged from 41 to 78 years; in group C (surgery within 8 to 14 days) of 27 cases, there were 15 males and 12 females, aged from 46 to 83 years. Anterior, posterior or combined anterior and posterior approaches were used according to their specific condition. The American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) motor scores and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores at admission, 7 days and 12 months after operation, postoperative ICU duration, and complications were compared among the 3 groups.Results:There were no significant differences in the preoperative general information or surgical approaches among the 3 groups, showing they were comparable ( P> 0.05). In all patients, the ASIA motor scores and JOA scores at 7 days and 12 months after operation were significantly better than those at admission, and the ASIA motor scores and JOA scores at 12 months after operation were significantly better than those at 7 days after operation ( P<0.01). There was no significant difference in the ASIA motor score or JOA score between the 3 groups at 7 days or 12 months after operation ( P>0.05). The postoperative ICU duration in group A was 42 (26, 61) h, significantly longer than 23 (16, 35) h in group B and 24 (14, 38) h in group C ( P<0.05). There were no deaths in the 84 patients; there was no significant difference in the overall incidence of serious complications or in that of general complications among the 3 groups ( P>0.05). Conclusions:Surgery is safe and effective for ATCCS. However, decompression surgery within 2 weeks may achieve better outcomes.
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Osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) can lead to lower back pain and may be even accompanied by scoliosis, neurological dysfunction and other complications, which will affect the daily activities and life quality of patients. Vertebral augmentation is an effective treatment method for OVCF, but it cannot correct unbalance of bone metabolism or improve the osteoporotic status, causing complications like lower back pain, limited spinal activities and vertebral refracture. The post-operative systematic and standardized rehabilitation treatments can improve curative effect and therapeutic efficacy of anti-osteoporosis, reduce risk of vertebral refracture, increase patient compliance and improve quality of life. Since there still lack relevant clinical treatment guidelines for postoperative rehabilitation treatments following vertebral augmentation for OVCF, the current treatments are varied with uneven therapeutic effect. In order to standardize the postoperative rehabilitation treatment, the Spine Trauma Group of the Orthopedic Branch of Chinese Medical Doctor Association organized relevant experts to refer to relevant literature and develop the "Guideline for postoperative rehabilitation treatment following vertebral augmentation for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (2022 version)" based on the clinical guidelines published by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) as well as on the principles of scientificity, practicality and advancement. The guideline provided evidence-based recommendations on 10 important issues related to postoperative rehabilitation treatments of OVCF.
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Objective:To compare the efficacy of posterior atlas uniaxial and polyaxial screw instrumentation and fusion with bone graft for Gehweiler type IIIb atlas fracture.Methods:A retrospective cohort study was performed to analyze the clinical data of 36 patients with Gehweiler type IIIb atlas fracture admitted to Henan Provincial People′s Hospital from January 2015 to October 2020. There were 29 males and 7 females, with age range of 23-82 years [(48.8±15.5)years]. All patients were treated with posterior atlas screw-rod internal fixation and fusion with bone graft, of which 14 received atlas uniaxial screw internal fixation (uniaxial screw group) and 22 received atlas polyaxial screw internal fixation (polyaxial screw group). The operation time and intraoperative blood loss were compared between the two groups. The atlas fracture union rate and atlantoaxial posterior arch bone fusion rate were compared between the two groups at 3 months and 6 months after operation. The anterior atlantodental interval (ADI), basion-dens interval (BDI) and lateral mass displacement (LMD) were compared between the two groups to evaluate the reduction of fracture fragments before operation, at 1, 3, 6 months after operation and at the last follow-up. At the same time, the visual analogue scale (VAS) and neck dysfunction index (NDI) were compared between the two groups to evaluate neck pain and functional recovery. The postoperative complications were observed.Results:All patients were followed up for 12-44 months [(27.2±9.9)months]. There was no significant difference in operation time or intraoperative blood loss between the two groups (all P>0.05). The atlas fracture union rate and atlantoaxial posterior arch bone fusion rate were 85.7% (12/14) and 78.6% (11/14) in uniaxial screw group at 3 months after operation, insignificantly different from those in polyaxial screw group [72.7% (16/22) and 77.3% (17/22)] (all P>0.05). All patients in the two groups achieved bone union and fusion at 6 months after operation. There was no significant difference in ADI between the two groups before and after operation (all P>0.05). The BDI in the two groups did not differ significantly before operation ( P>0.05), but a significantly higher value was found in uniaxial screw group at 1, 3, and 6 months after operation and at the last follow-up [(5.9±1.3)mm, (5.8±1.3)mm, (5.9±1.2)mm and (5.8±1.2)mm] than in polyaxial screw group [(3.1±0.6)mm, (3.1±0.6)mm, (3.1±0.6)mm and (3.1±0.6)mm] (all P<0.01). The two groups did not differ significantly before operation ( P>0.05), but LMD at 1, 3, and 6 months after operation and at the last follow-up was (1.6±0.8)mm, (1.5±0.8)mm, (1.5±0.7)mm and (1.5±0.9)mm in uniaxial screw group, significantly lower than that in polyaxial screw group [(4.8±1.6)mm, (4.6±1.6)mm, (4.9±1.6)mm and (4.9±1.6)mm] (all P<0.01). There was no significant difference in VAS between the two groups before operation ( P>0.05). The VAS at 1, 3, and 6 months after operation and at the last follow-up was 3.0(3.0, 4.0)points, 2.0(1.0, 2.0)points, 1.0(0.8, 2.0)points and 1.0(0.0, 1.3)points in uniaxial screw group and was 3.5(3.0, 4.0)points, 2.0(2.0, 3.0)points, 2.0(1.0, 2.0)points and 2.0(1.0, 3.0)points in polyaxial screw group. In comparison, the VAS scored much lower in uniaxial screw group than in polyaxial screw group at 6 months after operation and at the last follow-up (all P<0.01). There was no significant difference in NDI between the two groups before operation ( P>0.05). The NDI at 1, 3, and 6 months after operation and at the last follow-up was 34.9±6.3, 23.4±6.2, 13.9±2.7 and 9.4±2.8 in uniaxial screw group and was 33.2±6.1, 24.4±6.3, 18.1±4.1 and 12.7±3.2 in polyaxial screw group, showing a significantly lower NDI in uniaxial screw group than in polyaxial screw group at 6 months after operation and at the last follow-up (all P<0.01). The complication rate was 21.4% (3/14) in uniaxial screw group when compared to 22.7% (5/22) in polyaxial screw group ( P>0.05). Conclusion:For Gehweiler type IIIb atlas fracture, both techniques can attain atlas fracture union and atlantoaxial posterior arch bone fusion, but the posterior atlas uniaxial screw instrumentation and fusion is superior in reduction of atlas fracture displacement and lateral mass separation, neck pain relief and functional improvement.
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Objective:To explore the accuracy and repeatability of the smartphone scoliosis screening APP developed by our team in the measurement of the Cobb angle of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).Methods:Clinical data of 60 patients with AIS admitted to Department of Spine and Spinal Surgery, Henan Province People′s Hospital from August 2020 to February 2021 were analyzed retrospectively.Three surveyors measured the coronal main curvature Cobb angle, sagittal thoracic kyphosis (TK) angle, thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK) angle and lumbar kyphosis (LL) angle on whole-spine lateral X-ray films of 60 patients with AIS by means of the protractor, scoliosis screening APP and computerized Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). The time and results of each measurement were recorded.The measurement was repeated once after 2 weeks.Paired t-test was used to compare the measurement time of the APP method and the protractor method.Taking the Cobb angle measurement results of the PACS system as the reference standard, the accuracy of Cobb angle measurement by the APP method was analyzed by paired t-test.The repeatability of the surveyor and the consistency between the surveyors was compared by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results:Among the 60 patients with AIS, there were 17 males and 43 females, aged from 10 to 16 years [(12.2±2.4) years]. The main bends were thoracic curvature (Lenke Ⅰ) in 23 cases, Lenke Ⅱ in 18 cases and thoracolumbar curvature/lumbar curvature (Lenke V) in 19 cases.The APP method took significantly less time to measure the Cobb angle than the protractor method ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the Cobb angle measured by the APP method and PACS method ( P>0.05). The results of the coronal main curvature Cobb angle, TK angle, TLK angle and LL angle measured by 3 surveyors through the APP method were all in good agreement (ICC=0.990, 0.988, 0.986, 0.987). The repeatability (ICC 0.973-0.982) of the coronal main curvature Cobb angle, TK, TLK and LL measured twice before and after the APP method were both better that of the protractor method (ICC 0.933-0.954). Conclusions:Compared with the traditional protractor, the smartphone scoliosis screening APP has the advantages of short measurement time, high efficiency, excellent accuracy and good repeatability in measuring the Cobb angle of AIS.
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Objective:To explore the scheme of accurate pelvic osteotomy parameters and to analyze the feasibility and efficacy of 3D printing navigation plate in developmental dysplasia of the hip surgery.Methods:From January 2015 to December 2017, a total of 18 children with DDH underwent computer-assisted Salter pelvic osteotomy (computer-assisted osteotomy group) and 25 children with DDH who underwent conventional Salter pelvic osteotomy (conventional osteotomy group) were selected for retrospective analysis. There were 11 males and 32 females with an average age of 3.2±2.5 (range 1-11) years. According to International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) classification, there were 20 cases of type 1, 9 of type 2, 12 of type 3 and 2 of type 4. All patients were unilateral dislocation, including 18 cases on the left and 25 on the right. All children underwent pelvic CT examination before operation. Further, the proximal femur was surgically corrected during the operation. According to the acetabular rotation angle (ATA) and bony acetabular index (BAI), the computer-assisted osteotomy group simulated the operation with Mimics software made 3D printing navigation plate through which an accurate osteotomy scheme was developed. The two groups were compared in operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) hip joint score. Acetabular index (AI), central edge (CE) angle, and acetabulum head index (AHI) were compared between the two groups by using postoperative X-ray. The acetabular tilt angle (ATA) changes before and after operation in the computer-assisted osteotomy group were compared through 3D CT.Results:The follow-up duration was 2.3±0.2 (2.0 to 2.5) years in the computer-assisted osteotomy group and 2.8±0.15 (2.5 to 3.0) years in the conventional osteotomy group. The operative duration in the computer-assisted osteotomy group was 127±20.6 min, which was significantly longer ( t=4.657, P<0.001) than that in the conventional osteotomy group (103±13.2 min). Intraoperative bleeding was 157±17.5 ml in the computer-assisted osteotomy group and 151±15.3 ml in the conventional osteotomy group without significant difference between the two groups ( t=1.195, P=0.239). At 2 years after surgery, the JOA score of the hip joint in the computer-assisted osteotomy group (86.7±8.5 points) was like that (84.8±10.0 points) in the conventional osteotomy group ( t=0.628, P=0.533). At the last follow-up, the CE angle in the computer-assisted osteotomy group (36.8°±5.2°) was significantly larger than that (31.8°±4.4°) in the conventional osteotomy group ( t=3.414, P<0.001). There was statistically significant difference in term of AHI between the computer-assisted osteotomy group (85.8%±6.6%) and the conventional osteotomy group (80.4%±8.3%, t=2.284, P=0.028). AI was 23.5°±5.5° in the computer-assisted osteotomy group and 25.2°±4.2° in the conventional osteotomy group without significant difference ( t=-1.150, P=0.257). The ATA of the affected side was 12.3°±1.4° in the computer-assisted osteotomy group which was similar ( t=0.614, P=0.547) to that of the healthy side (11.8°±2.8°). Conclusion:Based on specific anatomical parameters, computer-assisted preoperative planning can not only directly simulate the process of osteotomy, but also produce individualized 3D printed guide plates. Compared with conventional Salter pelvic osteotomy, computer-assisted osteotomy can achieve accurate radiographic correction of the hip joint in children with DDH, resulting in a better matching relationship between the femoral head and acetabulum.
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Objective:To analyze the incidence and epidemiological characteristics of traumatic spinal cord injury in China in 2018.Methods:Multi-stage stratified cluster sampling was used to randomly select hospitals capable of treating patients with spinal cord injury from 3 regions，9 provinces and 27 cities in China to retrospectively investigate eligible patients with traumatic spinal cord injury admitted in 2018. National and regional incidence rates were calculated. The data of cause of injury，injury level，severity of injury，segment and type of fracture，complications，death and other data were collected by medical record questionnaire，and analyzed according to geographical region，age and gender.Results:Medical records of 4，134 patients were included in this study，with a male-to-female ratio of 2.99∶1. The incidence of traumatic spinal cord injury in China in 2018 was 50.484 / 1 million （95% CI 50.122-50.846）. The highest incidence in the Eastern region was 53.791 / 1 million （95% CI 53.217-54.365）. In the whole country，the main causes of injury were high falls （29.58%），as well as in the Western region （40.68%），while the main causes of injury in the Eastern and Central regions were traffic injuries （31.22%，30.10%）. The main injury level was cervical spinal cord in the whole country （64.49%），and the proportion of cervical spinal cord injury in the Central region was the highest （74.68%），and the proportion of lumbosacral spinal cord injury in the Western region was the highest （32.30%）. The highest proportion of degree of injury was incomplete quadriplegia （55.20%），and the distribution pattern was the same in each region. A total of 65.87% of the patients were complicated with fracture or dislocation，77.95% in the Western region and only 54.77% in the Central region. In the whole country，the head was the main combined injury （37.87%），as well as in the Eastern and Central regions，while the proportion of chest combined injury in the Western region was the highest （38.57%）. A total of 32.90% of the patients were complicated with respiratory complications. There were 23 patients （0.56%） died in hospital，of which 17（73.91%） died of respiratory dysfunction. Conclusions:The Eastern region of China has a high incidence of traumatic spinal cord injury. Other epidemiological features include high fall as the main cause of injury cervical spinal cord injury as the main injury level，incomplete quadriplegia as the main degree of injury，head as the main combined injury，and respiratory complications as the main complication.