Analysis of the causes of cage subsidence after oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the cage subsidence after oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) for lumbar spondylosis, summarize the characteristics of the cage subsidence, analyze causes, and propose preventive measures.@*METHODS@#The data of 144 patients of lumbar spine lesions admitted to our hospital from October 2015 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 43 males and 101 females, and the age ranged from 20 to 81 years old, with an average of (60.90±10.06) years old. Disease types:17 patients of lumbar intervertebral disc degenerative disease, 12 patients of giant lumbar disc herniation, 5 patients of discogenic low back pain, 33 patients of lumbar spinal stenosis, 26 patients of lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis, 28 patients of lumbar spondylolisthesis with spondylolisthesis, 11 patients of adjacent vertebral disease after lumbar internal fixation, 7 patients of primary spondylitis in the inflammatory outcome stage, and 5 patients of lumbar degenerative scoliosis. Preoperative dual-energy X-ray bone mineral density examination showed 57 patients of osteopenia or osteoporosis, and 87 patients of normal bone density. The number of fusion segments:124 patients of single-segment, 11 patients of two-segment, 8 patients of three-segment, four-segment 1 patient. There were 40 patients treated by stand-alone OLIF, and 104 patients by OLIF combined with posterior pedicle screw. Observed the occurrence of fusion cage settlement after operation, conducted monofactor analysis on possible risk factors, and observed the influence of fusion cage settlement on clinical results.@*RESULTS@#All operations were successfully completed, the median operation time was 99 min, and the median intraoperative blood loss was 106 ml. Intraoperative endplate injury occurred in 30 patients and vertebral fracture occurred in 5 patients. The mean follow-up was (14.57±7.14) months from 6 to 30 months. During the follow-up, except for the patients of primary lumbar interstitial inflammation and some patients of lumbar spondylolisthesis with spondylolisthesis, the others all had different degrees of cage subsidence. Cage subsidence classification:119 patients were normal subsidence, and 25 patients were abnormal subsidence (23 patients were gradeⅠ, and 2 patients were gradeⅡ). There was no loosening or rupture of the pedicle screw system. The height of the intervertebral space recovered from the preoperative average (9.48±1.84) mm to the postoperative average (12.65±2.03) mm, and the average (10.51±1.81) mm at the last follow-up. There were statistical differences between postoperative and preoperative, and between the last follow-up and postoperative. The interbody fusion rate was 94.4%. The low back pain VAS decreased from the preoperative average (6.55±2.2 9) to the last follow-up (1.40±0.82), and there was statistically significant different. The leg pain VAS decreased from the preoperative average (4.72±1.49) to the final follow-up (0.60±0.03), and the difference was statistically significant (t=9.13, P<0.000 1). The ODI index recovered from the preoperative average (38.50±6.98)% to the latest follow-up (11.30±3.27)%, and there was statistically significant different. The complication rate was 31.3%(45/144), and the reoperation rate was 9.72%(14/144). Among them, 8 patients were reoperated due to fusion cage subsidence or displacement, accounting for 57.14%(8/14) of reoperation. The fusion cage subsidence in this group had obvious characteristics. The monofactor analysis showed that the number of abnormal subsidence patients in the osteopenia or osteoporosis group, Stand-alone OLIF group, 2 or more segments fusion group, and endplate injury group was higher than that in the normal bone mass group, OLIF combined with pedicle screw fixation group, single segment fusion group, and no endplate injury group, and the comparison had statistical differences.@*CONCLUSION@#Cage subsidence is a common phenomenon after OLIF surgery. Preoperative osteopenia or osteoporosis, Stand-alone OLIF, 2 or more segments of fusion and intraoperative endplate injury may be important factors for postoperative fusion cage subsidence. Although there is no significant correlation between the degree of cage subsidence and clinical symptoms, there is a risk of cage migration, and prevention needs to be strengthened to reduce serious complications caused by fusion of cage subsidence, including reoperation.

Preliminary observation on the clinical application of rehabilitation support for lumbar disc herniation based on 3D printing technology / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the important effect of 3D printing personalized lumbar support on lumbar pain and lumbar function in patients with lumbar disc herniation.@*METHODS@#From October 2018 to May 2021, 60 patients initially diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation were selected and divided into an observation group and a control group, with 30 patients in each group. Among them, there were 18 males and 12 females in the observation group;the age ranged from 24 to 56 years old, with an average of (45.23±6.07) years old. The course of disease ranged from 1 to 24 months, with an average of(6.25±0.82) months, and rehabilitation treatment was carried out by wearing 3D printed personalized lumbar support. There were 19 males and 11 females in the control group;the age ranged from 25 to 57 years old, with an average of (42.78±7.58) years old. The course of disease ranged from 1 to 24 months, with an average of (6.72±1.36) months, and rehabilitation treatment is carried out by wearing traditional lumbar protective equipment. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores, lumbar Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS) were evaluated and compared between the two groups before and 1 course after treatment (3 weeks).@*RESULTS@#There was no statistically significant difference in JOA, ODI, and VAS between two groups before treatment (P>0.05). After one course of treatment (3 weeks), JOA scores of both groups was increased compared to before treatment (P<0.05), while ODI and VAS decreased compared to before treatment (P<0.05). After treatment, JOA score of observation group was higher than that of control group (P<0.05), while ODI and VAS scores were lower than those of control group. No adverse events occurred in both groups.@*CONCLUSION@#The application of 3D printing personalized lumbar support can effectively alleviate the pain of patients with lumbar disc herniation and improve their lumbar function of patients.

An anatomical study of the external bone graft axis from the pedicle to the endplate from T10 to L5 in compression healing fractures of the anterior vertebral column / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To anatomically study the external bone graft axis from the pedicle (canal) to the endplate designed for compression healing fractures of the anterior vertebral column in freshly dried vertebral specimens from T10 to L5.Methods:Eight groups of freshly dried vertebral specimens from T10 to L5 (128 vertebral bodies and 256 lateral pedicles and lateral vertebral bodies) were used to observe the vertebral axis of the pedicle (canal), the internal sagittal diameter of the pedicle (canal), and the sagittal diameter of the vertebral body, and the position of vertebral pedicle (canal) axis (f-angle) before design of the external bone graft axis from the pedicle (canal) to the endplate of the compression healing vertebral body. (1) The internal sagittal diameter of the pedicle (canal) was divided into 3 segments. The lateral segment of the vertebral plate was wide, the middle segment of the isthmus of the vertebral arch was narrow and the medial segment of the terminal segment of the vertebral arch was wide. The narrow isthmus of the middle arch (canal) was used as a transposition axis in the design of the axis of the bone graft from the vertebral arch (canal) to the endplate of the compression healing vertebral body. (2) The axis of the vertebral body of the pedicle (canal) was located medial to the transposition axis, parallel to the f-angle at 0° as described by Saillant G. (3) The compression degree of the vertebral body was measured at the outer edge of the lateral anterior column, with Ⅰ° for less than 1/4 compression of the anterior column of the vertebral body, Ⅱ° for 1/4 to 2/4, Ⅲ° for 2/4 to 3/4 and Ⅳ° for more than 3/4 of the compression. (4) The f-angle described by Salliant G at the entry end which was corresponding to the endplate of the compression healing vertebral body was used to design the pedicle (canal) to the outer implant axis of the endplate of the compression healing vertebral body.Results:At an f-angle of 8° to 10°, the bone graft axis was aligned with the Ⅱ° compression healing vertebral endplate on the superior endplate side of the vertebral body axis of the arch; at an f-angle of 16° to 18°, the bone graft axis corresponded to the superior endplate of the Ⅰ° compression healing vertebral body. At an f-angle of -10°~-8°, the bone graft axis corresponded to the Ⅲ° compression healing vertebral endplate on the inferior endplate side of the vertebral body axis of the arch; at an f-angle of -18°~-16°, the bone graft axis corresponded to the inferior endplate of the Ⅳ° compression healing vertebral body.Conclusions:The external axis from the pedicle (canal) to the endplate designed in the present anatomic study for compression healing fractures of the anterior vertebral column allows for safe and easy granular bone implantation due to the toughness of the cortical bone around the arch root (canal) in addition to the precise design of the bone graft axis from the pedicle to the endplate from T10 to L5.

Application value of 3D print navigation module in the precise placement of thoracic and lumbar vertebral arch screws / 解剖学报

[ Abstract ] Objective To explore the effect of 3D print-based navigation module assisted placement of thoracolumbar pedicle screws. Methods From January 2019 to May 2021, we received 70 thoracic and lumbar fracture patients, divided into 3D technical group and conventional method group according to the surgical method, with 35 patients in each group. In the 3D technology group, pedicle screws were placed under the sight of the navigation module, while in the conventional group, pedicle screws were placed under the conventional C-arm fluoroscopy. The amount of intraoperative bleeding and time of C arm were counted in each patient. According to the different number of pedicle screw implantation in each patient, the average amount of blood loss, time and C-arm fluoroscopy times of each screw implantation were compared between the two groups. Ideal screw angles were designed for patients in both groups before surgery. Compared with the preoperative design, the difference between preoperative and postoperative screw angle and head angle was calculated and set as the deviation value. Two sets of data were compared. Visual analogue score(VAS), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, Oswestry disability index(ODI), vertebral height recovery ratio and Cobb’ s angle were compared between the two groups. Results The amount of blood loss, required time and exposure times of C-arm in 3D screw implantation group were significantly lower than those in conventional screw implantation group(P0. 05); In terms of Cobb’s angle and vertebral height recovery ratio, the 3D technique group was better than the conventional method group (P<0. 05). Conclusion The 3D printed navigation module can assist the precise placement of thoracolumbar pedicle screws, shorten the operation time, reduce intraoperative bleeding and c-arm exposure times, facilitate the recovery of the injured vertebral height, improve the efficacy.

Oblique lateral interbody fusion treats adjacent segment diseases after lumbar spinal fusion / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the feasibility and clinical efficacy of oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) in the treatment of adjacent segment disease (ASDis).Methods:Retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of 31 patients with ASDis treated by OLIF in four medical centers from June 2015 to December 2018. There were 17 males and 14 females. The average age was (65.7±3.4) years (range, 59 to 75 years). 19 cases received single-segment fixed fusion, 11 cases received double-segment fixed fusion and 1 case received three-segment fixed fusion. Original fixed fusion site: 1 case of L 1, 2, 3 cases of L 3, 4, 11 cases of L 4, 5, 4 cases of L 5S 1, 6 cases of L 3-L 5, 5 cases of L 4-S 1, and 1 case of L 3-S 1. The time from the initial fixation and fusion to this admission was 82.5±45.5 months (rang, 24 to 180 months). ASDis occurred at the proximal end of the fixed fusion segment in 28 cases and at the distal end in 3 cases. The types of ASDis: degenerative disc disease in 11 cases, lumbar spinal stenosis in 15 cases, degenerative spondylolisthesis in 2 cases, and degenerative scoliosis in 3 cases. The location of ASDis: 6 cases of L 2, 3, 12 cases of L 3, 4, 6 cases of L 4, 5, 3 cases of L 1-L 3, 1 case of L 2-L 4, and 3 cases of L 1-L 4. At admission, 3 cases of lumbar internal fixation had been removed and 28 cases of internal fixation remained. Stand-alone OLIF was performed in 19 cases, OLIF combined with pedicle screw fixation in 8 cases, and OLIF combined with cortical screw fixation in 4 cases. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were used to evaluate the low back pain and lumbar function before operation and at the last follow-up, and the imaging results and complications were observed. Results:All patients were followed up. The follow-up time was 23.6±9.6 months (range, 12 to 60 months). The operation time was 73.8±25.3 mins (range, 40 to 180 min), and the intraoperative blood loss was 86.2±67.4 ml (range, 20 to 310 ml). The average blood loss in each segment was 24.8 ml. During the operation, there were 1 case of segmental vein injury, 7 cases of endplate injury, 2 cases of transient iliopsoas muscle weakness, 1 case of thigh pain and numbness, and 1 case of incomplete intestinal obstruction. There was no incision necrosis and infection. The VAS score of low back pain decreased from 5.9±1.9 before operation to 1.4±0.6 at the last follow-up, with a statistically significant difference ( t=8.47, P<0.001). The ODI index recovered from 45.2%±5.7% before operation to 13.8%±4.7% at the last follow-up, with a statistically significant difference ( t=7.92, P<0.001). The height of intervertebral space increased from 8.7±1.6 mm before operation to 11.4±1.9 mm after operation and 9.9±1.8 mm at the last follow-up. There was a statistically significant difference between postoperative and preoperative height of intervertebral space ( F=4.15, P=0.007). There was a statistically significant difference between the last follow-up and postoperative height of intervertebral space ( P=0.011). During the follow-up, there were 13 cases of fusion cage subsidence, 1 case of fusion cage displacement, and no case of internal fixation loosening or fracture. The intervertebral fusion rate was 94%(29/31) and the complication rate was 42%(13/31). Conclusion:ASDis is a common complication after lumbar fixation and fusion, and requires surgical treatment. OLIF is a reliable method to treat ASDis as it has advantages of small trauma, high fusion rate and low complication rate.

An ultrasound-guided robot assisted system for percutaneous facet joint puncture: an experimental study / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the accuracy of an ultrasound-guided robot-assisted system for percutaneous facet joint puncture in an animal experiment by registration of ultrasound images and two-dimensional X-ray fluorescence images.Methods:Six specimens of fresh adult sheep lumbar spine were prepared and soaked in gelatin solution. The specimens contained a total of 48 facet joints with 24 ones respectively on the left and right sides. Half of the joints were assigned by the random number table method into a robot-assisted group which were subjected to percutaneous facet joint puncture assisted by the ultrasound-guided robot-assisted system while the contralateral ones into a freehand group which were subjected to percutaneous facet joint puncture by freehand. In the robot-assisted group, the left facet joints were 3 L 1, 3 L 2, 3 L 3 and 3 L 4 ones while the right facet joints were 2 L 1, 3 L 2, 5 L 3 and 2 L 4 ones. In this self-control animal experiment, both the robot-assisted punctures and the freehand punctures were carried out in the same specimen. The puncture success rate, puncture needle adjustment, positioning deviation, orientation deviation and operation time were recorded. Results:The positioning deviation and orientation deviation in the robot-assisted group [(2.21 ± 1.12) mm and 1.51° ± 0.47°] were significantly lower than those in the freehand group [(3.26 ± 1.44) mm and 2.24° ± 0.89°] ( P < 0.05). All the articular facet joint punctures were successfully accomplished for the first time in the robot-assisted group while those required multiple adjustments in the freehand group. In the robot-assisted group, the total operation time [(463.84 ± 34.93) s] was significantly longer than that in the freehand group [(298.40 ± 27.48) s], but the puncture time [(37.97 ± 6.87) s] was significantly shorter than that in the freehand group [(261.61 ± 33.15) s] ( P < 0.05). Conclusion:The ultrasound-guided robot-assisted system for percutaneous facet joint puncture can lead to accurate puncture with limited needle adjustments.

Current development and prospect of minimally invasive lumbar surgery / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

With the technological progress and the unremitting efforts of spinal surgeons， minimally invasive lumbar spine surgery has developed rapidly in this century and has been widely recognized and used by patients and surgeons. However， there is a lack of standardized treatment guidelines for minimally invasive lumbar surgery. Varieties of surgical techniques and treatment strategies mainly rely on training and surgical experiences. This paper reviews the development of minimally invasive lumbar surgery and discusses the future challenges and technical direction in the development of minimally invasive lumbar surgery. We hope that more spinal surgeons can master minimally invasive spinal technology and make more patients benefit from it.

Determining the accuracy of lumbar 4/5 pedicle screw entry point based on digital three-dimensional technology / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To establish a digital model of lumbar 4 and lumbar 5 vertebral bodies through three-dimensional imaging technology so as to explore the precise placement of pedicle screws during the lumbar posterior internal fixation operation. 【Methods】 CT scan image data set of lumbar spine included six specimens. Then lumbar modeling was produced using Mimics software， implanting pedicle screws was simulated with the computer to determine the reliability of pedicle screw for herringbone crest method， Weinstein method， and Magerl method. 【Results】 This study included six specimens （4 males and 2 females）， with an average age of 42.83 years. The distance from the right Magerl entry point to the actual entry point of the lumbar 4 vertebrae was significantly greater than that of the left side. The distance from the left herringbone crest entry point of lumbar 4 vertebrae to the actual entry point was significantly greater than Weinstein method and Magerl method （PMagerl abduction angle > Weinstein abduction angle > herringbone abduction angle. The distances of true-Weinstein and true-herringbone ridges on the left side of lumbar 5 vertebrae were significantly greater than those on the right side （P=0.002 and P=0.004）， and the Weinstein abduction angle on the right side of lumbar 5 vertebrae was greater than that on the left side （P=0.003）. For the left and right sides of lumbar 5 vertebrae， the distance from herringbone crest entry point to the actual entry point was significantly greater than that of Weinstein method and Magerl method （P Magerl abduction angle > Weinstein abduction angle > herringbone abduction angle. 【Conclusion】 Both Weinstein entry point and Magerl entry point for lumbar 4 and lumbar 5 vertebra are close to the real entry point. The Weinstein abduction angle and Magerl abduction angle of lumbar 4 and lumbar 5 vertebrae have minor differences compared with real abduction angle. Therefore， it is recommended that Weinstein method is the preferred choice for lumbar 4 pedicle screw placement， while Weinstein method or Magerl method is the preferred choice for lumbar 5 pedicle screw placement.

Eficácia da liberação do músculo iliopsoas sobre os parâmetros respiratórios em pacientes com dor lombar crônica: um protocolo de ensaio clínico controlado randomizado único cego, dois grupos, pré-teste/pós-teste / Efficacy of iliopsoas muscle release on respiratory parameters in patients with chronic low back pain: a single blinded, two- groups, pre-test/post-test randomized controlled trial protocol

OBJETIVO: Iliopsoas e o músculodiafragma compartilham fixação comum nas vértebras L2, a contração do iliopsoas pode levar à redução da excursão do diafragma levando à dificuldade respiratória. Portanto, o presente estudo controlado fornecerá evidências sobre o efeito da liberação do músculo iliopsoas na melhoria da eficiência respiratória em pacientes com dor lombar crônica. MÉTODO / DESENHO: Um total de trinta e quatro participantes com lombalgia crônica mecânica lombar crônica devido à rigidez dos flexores do quadril, dor lombar crônica e dificuldade respiratória serão recrutados com base nos critérios de seleção e serão alocados aleatoriamente em dois grupos, Grupo A (tratamento conservador + liberação miofascial iliopsoas), Grupo B (tratamento conservador + tratamento simulado). Ambos os grupos receberão a intervenção três vezes por semana durante 3 semanas. As medidas de resultado serão o Questionário de Incapacidade de Roland Morris, a Escala Numérica de Avaliação da Dor e a Capacidade de Difusão do Pulmão, pois o monóxido de carbono será usado como medidas de resultado. DISCUSSÃO: Este estudo ajudará a identificar a eficácia da liberação de iliopsoas na dor lombar e seu efeito nos parâmetros respiratórios. REGISTRO DO ENSAIO: Este ensaio foi registrado prospectivamente em cliniclatrials.gov (CTRI / 2020/04/024661), em 16 de abril de 2020.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Iliopsoas and diaphragm muscle share common attachment at L2 vertebrae, iliopsoas tightness may lead to reduce diaphragm excursion leading to breathing difficulty. Therefore, the present controlled trial will provide evidence on the effect of the iliopsoas muscle release in upgrading respiratory efficiency in patients with chronic low back pain. METHOD/DESIGN: A total of thirty-four participants with mechanical chronic low back pain due to hip flexor tightness and having breathing difficulty will be recruited based on selection criteria. It will be randomly allocated into Group A (conservative treatment + iliopsoas myofascial release), Group B (conservative treatment + sham treatment). Both the group will receive the intervention three times a week for three weeks. The outcome measures will be the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, and diffuse capacity of Lung for Carbon monoxide as outcome measures. DISCUSSION: This trial will help identify the effectiveness of iliopsoas release in low back pain and its effect on respiratory parameters. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial has been prospectively registered at cliniclatrials.gov (CTRI/2020/04/024661) on 16 April 2020.

Bone cement pedicle screw fixation and fusion in the treatment of degenerative spinal disease with osteoporosis: One-year follow-up / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Even pedicle screw fixation system is commonly used in spinal surgery, elderly patients with high bone fragility lack of bone elasticity, insufficient holding power of pedicle screw. Thus, there is a risk of loosening and pulling out the screws, leading to failure of spine reduction and fixation. Thus, we need to explore new method to increase the stability of the pedicle screw system. OBJECTIVE: To explore the long-term effect of pedicle screw internal fixation with bone cement in the treatment of different types of lumbar degenerative diseases with osteoporosis. METHODS: Sixty patients suffering from degenerative spinal disease with the complication of osteoporosis were randomly assigned to control group and trial group (n=30 per group). Before adopting the treatment of bone cement pedicle screw fixation and fusion, all patients had taken pre-operation examination, X-ray, CT and MRI scan. The patients in the control group were treated with conventional pedicle screw technology, and those in the experimental group were treated with bone cement on the basis of the conventional pedicle screw technology. Visual analogue scale score and Oswestry disability index were compared between the two groups 1 day before surgery, 1 week, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. Complications were observed after surgery to evaluate the effect of the operation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) At 1 week, 6 months and 1 year after surgery, the visual analogue scale score and Oswestry disability index were significantly better than those of pre-operation (P < 0.05). Visual analogue scale score and Oswestry disability index were significantly lower at 6 months and 1 year after surgery than those 1 week after surgery (P < 0.05). Visual analogue scale score and Oswestry disability index were significantly lower at 1 year than those at 6 months after surgery (P < 0.05). (2) Visual analogue scale score and Oswestry disability index were better in the trial group than those in the control group at 6 months and 1 year after surgery (P < 0.05). (3) The incidence of internal fixation rod loosening was lower in the trial group than that in the control group. (4) It is concluded that bone cement pedicle screw fixation and fusion in the treatment of degenerative spinal disease with osteoporosis can effectively improve the clinical symptoms and reduce the occurrence of complications. It is safe and effective in clinical application, and the long-term treatment effect is acceptable.

A Study Of Prevalence Of Sacralization Of L5 Vertebra

Sacrum is centrally located unpaired bone of pelvis which is composed of 5 sacral vertebrae. Superiorly itarticulates with 5th lumbar vertebra to form lumbosacral joint and laterally it articulates with hip bone to formsacroiliac joint. When 5th lumbar vertebra fuses with 1st sacral vertebra then it is called as sacralization andwhen 1st sacral vertebra gets separated from sacrum then it is called as lumbarization. 79sacra from thedepartment of Anatomy of MGM medical college and D. Y. Patil medical college, Navi Mumbai were studied to seesacralization. Out of 79 sacra in 14sacra(17.7 %) sacralization was observed.Out of 14 sacra, 4 sacra showedbilateral and complete sacralization, 5 sacra showed unilateral and partial sacralization and 5 sacrashowedincomplete fusion between L5 and S1 vertebra. Change in normal structure of lumbar vertebra andsacrum may lead to alteration in kinematics of lumbosacral region which may lead to compression of nerve andlow back pain. Knowledge regarding incidence of sacralization will be useful for radiologist and orthopaedicsurgeon while dealing with low back pain

Sex Estimation of Typical Adult Vertebrae Morphology in Central China Based on CT Technique / 法医学杂志

Objective The morphological data of the second thoracic vertebra and the third lumbar vertebra were measured by computerized tomography （CT）. The sex differences were analyzed and the discrimination equation was obtained. Methods The data of 274 adults （203 cases from experimental group and 69 cases from validation group） from central China were collected. Four linear data （maximum transverse length of vertebral body, maximum longitudinal length of vertebral body, maximum transverse length of vertebral foramen, maximum longitudinal length of vertebral foramen）, one angle data （angle between spinous processes） and two area （vertebral foramen area, total cross-sectional area of vertebral body） data of the second thoracic vertebra and the third lumbar vertebra were collected, respectively. Then three ratios ［maximum transverse length/　maximum longitudinal length of vertebral body, maximum transverse length/ maximum longitudinal length of vertebral foramen, vertebral foramen area/ （total cross-sectional area of vertebral body-vertebral foramen area）］ and one angle （angle between spinous processes） were obtained. The discriminant equation was established for sexual discriminant analysis. Results The morphology of the second thoracic vertebra and the third lumbar vertebra was related with gender. Four single index discriminant formulae and eleven multi-index discriminant formulae were established. The 69 validation group samples were substituted into the formula for testing, and the maximum discriminant accuracy rate of the single-index discriminant formula was 75%. The maximum discriminant accuracy rate of multi-index discriminant formula was 83%. Conclusion It is feasible to conduct individual sex analysis by the morphological indexes of second thoracic vertebra and the third lumbar vertebra. The indexes have important application values in practice.

Accuracy and repeatability of Revolution CT energy spectrum imaging in measurement of bone mineral density of spine phantom / 中国介入影像与治疗学

Objective: To observe the accuracy and repeatability of Revolution CT energy spectrum imaging for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) of lumbar vertebra phantom. Methods: Revolution CT was used with different tube current and different tube rotation speed combinations, a total of 20 sets of scanning conditions, and the European spine phantom (ESP) were scanned repeatedly for 10 times. The Hydroxyapatite (HAP) value of L1, L2, and L3 vertebral bodies were measured by energy spectral material decomposition technique, and the measured HAP values were compared with actual values. At the same time, the volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) of each scanning condition were recorded and compared. Then the repeatability of measurements with CT machines was observed. Results: Under 20 groups of conditions, the measured HAP values of L1, L2 and L3 intervertebral bodies were statistically significant (all P0.05), and CTDIvol was 9.09 mG and 15.46 mGy, respectively. Conclusion: Revolution CT scan is accurate in measuring BMD of ESP, especially with tube rotation speed 0.8 s/rot and tube current 230 mA, and the radiation dose is low. The repeatability between different CT machines of same model is good.

Finite element analysis and in vitro biomechanical experiment of new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: The non-fusion system of lumbar interspinous process distraction device provides a new treatment option for lumbar degenerative diseases. However, at present, the clinical application and research of lumbar interspinous process distraction device are reported insufficiently in China, especially for the domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device. OBJECTIVE: To verify the scientific nature and effectiveness of the new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device through finite element analysis and in vitro biomechanical experiment of goat lumbar spine. METHODS: (1) Finite element analysis of new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device: L2-L5 three-dimensional model of vertebral body was established based on normal adult lumbar CT data. From then on, new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device model, new lumbar interspinous process distraction device model of lumbar non fusion system were successively built. The mechanical conditions were given under the physiological conditions of lumbar spine. Biomechanical analysis was carried out before and after the new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device was implanted. (2) In vitro biomechanical analysis of new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device: the lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) of 24 adult male goats were obtained, and the new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device was implanted between the L3-4 spinous process. Before and after the placement of the lumbar interspinous process distraction device, the lumbar motion range and the pressure of the intervertebral disc under the flexion, extension, lateral bending and rotation of the lumbar specimens were detected. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) After the new lumbar interspinous process distraction device was implanted, the motion range and the pressure of the intervertebral disc of responsible segment were reduced, while the adjacent segments' mobility and the pressure of the intervertebral disc were almost unaffected. It was theoretically verified that the new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device could provide the biomechanical basis for the treatment of the lumbar degenerative diseases, and contribute to the theoretical reference for the prevention of the clinical diseases. (2) In the state of extension, the motion range of L3-4 vertebral body after implanting the new lumbar interspinous process distraction device was significantly lower than that before implantation (P 0. 05). In the state of flexion, lateral bending and rotation, there was no significant difference between L2-3, L3-4 and L4-5 vertebral body after implanting the lumbar interspinous process distraction device and that before implantation (P > 0. 05). In the state of extension, the pressure of intervertebral disc after L3-4 vertebral body implantation was significantly lower than that before implantation (P 0. 05). In the state of flexion, lateral bending and rotation, there was no significant difference between L2-3, L3-4 and L4-5 vertebral body implantation and that before implantation (P > 0. 05). (3) The results showed that the scientific nature and validity of the new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device was verified by three-dimensional finite element analysis and in vitro animal lumbar specimens experiment, which provided a strong basis for the animal experiment, clinical experiment, clinical application and clinical production of the new domestic lumbar interspinous process distraction device.

Apoptosis and expression of apoptotic factors caspase-3, fas and p53 in lumbar ligamentum flavum / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Lumbar spinal stenosis is one of the key causes of gait disorder and low back pain in the older adults. Hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum is the main pathological mechanism leading to lumbar spinal stenosis. Although there are numerous imaging and pathological studies on the ligamentum flavum, little is reported on cell apoptosis. OBJECTIVE: To detect the apoptotic rate and the expression of caspase-3, fas and p53 in the hypertrophic ligamentum flavum, providing experimental evidence for understanding the mechanism underlying degeneration of the ligamentum flavum. METHODS: In experimental group, 50 hypertrophic ligamentum flavum specimens (L2-S1) confirmed by MRI and postoperative measurement were obtained from 50 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis who underwent posterior decompression surgery. There were 22 males and 28 females, aged from 32 to 74 years old, with an average of 54.46 years old. In control group, 30 non-hypertrophic ligamentum flavum specimens (L2-S1) confirmed by MRI and postoperative measurement were obtained from 30 patients with lumbar disc herniation undergoing surgery and lumbar burst fractures. There were 19 males and 11 females, aged 19-67 years, with an average of 47.27 years old. The apoptotic rate in the ligamentum flavum was detected by TUNEL staining, and the expression of caspase-3, fas and p53 was detected by SP immunohistochemistry. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, with approval No. LFYLLSJ2016007. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: TUNEL results showed that the average apoptotic rate of the experimental group was (37.80±3.04)%, which was significantly higher than that of the control group [(13.18±1.34)%; t=41.83, P < 0.001]. The immunohistochemical staining of SP revealed that the positive expression percentages of caspase-3, fas and p53 in the ligamentum flavum were all 100% in the experimental group, while the positive percentages were 13.3%, 16.7%, and 10% in the control group, respectively. There was a significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.001). These findings indicate that cell apoptosis in the hypertrophic ligamentum flavum is increased and has a certain correlation with the up-regulation of caspase-3, fas and p53.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis of traction under different lumbar physiological curvatures / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the finite element analysis of lumbar biomechanics has become a hot topic. Lumbar lordosis is considered to reduce the pressure load on the lumbar intervertebral disc and protect the lumbar spine. OBJECTIVE: To study the biomechanical effects of lumbar traction on L1-L5 lumbar segments in normal physiological curvature, flexion position and maximum overextension position, and to evaluate the optimal physiological curvature of lumbar traction. METHODS: A healthy male volunteer, aged 26 years, with a height of 174 cm and a weight of 60 kg, was selected, who had no history of lumbar spine diseases. With the L3 segment as the traction site, a finite element model of the whole lumbar spine was established based on lateral radiographs of the lumbar spine at the initiation site and during the maximal overextension as photographed by a DR machine. Based on the three-dimensional finite element model of the lumbar spine, the stress values and distributions of the lumbar vertebrae, the intervertebral joints, the intervertebral discs and the anterior longitudinal ligaments of the whole lumbar spine under different physiological curvatures were calculated. The patient was fully informed of the study protocol and signed an informed consent. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Under six kinds of simulated working conditions, the range of motion of L1-L2 was 9.31° for flexion and extension, 9.84° for right and left bending, and 4.43° for right and left rotation; the range of motion of L2-L3 was 10.22° for flexion and extension, 12.35° for left and right bending, and 4.57° for left and right rotation; the range of motion of L3-L4 was 11.20° for flexion and extension, 11.63° for left and right bending, and 5.32° for left and right rotation; the range of motion of L4-L5 was 13.16° for flexion and extension, 11.58° for left and right bending, and 5.05° for left and right rotation. Under the normal physiological curvature of the lumbar vertebrae, the stress value of different lumbar spine structures was much greater than the stress value of hyperextension traction. The normal curvature of the anterior longitudinal ligament was 2.47 MPa, and the curvature of hyperextension traction value was 21.20 MPa. The stress value of L3 was the highest, which was four times that of the hyperextension traction. The stress value of the intervertebral joints at L2-L3 and intervertebral disc was highest than that of any other segment of the lumbar spine. These findings indicate that the pressure of lumbar vertebrae, intervertebral joints and intervertebral discs in hyperextension position is less than that in normal physiological curvature traction, and the pressure of anterior longitudinal ligament is always within the safe range. Lumbar traction may have better clinical efficacy and definite security in hyperextension position.

Progress in Biomechanics of Lumbar Fixation with Lateral Approaches / 医用生物力学

Extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) can be used to treat various lumbar diseases, such as lumbar facet joints intervertebral disc herniation, spondylolisthesis, stenosis. Compared with other approaches, XLIF establishes the surgical channel behind the peritoneum through lateral abdomen, with the advantages of less blooding in the surgery, smaller invasion, lower complications rate and shorter rehabilitation period. Meanwhile，this technique can not only reduce the risk of vascular injury, but also avoid the damage of back structures，such as muscles and facet joints. Therefore, XLIF has been attracting more and more attention and application. However, there is no conclusive evidence to prove that XLIF is better than other surgical approaches in terms of clinical results and complications rates. This paper reviewed the effects of XLIF for reconstructing spinal stability, as well as its biomechanical properties compared with other classical surgeries.

Feasibility of bone mineral density of T12 measured with quantitative CT for replacing abnormal lumbar vertebrae for diagnosis of osteoporosis / 中国医学影像技术

Objective: To explore the feasibility of bone mineral density (BMD) of T12 for replacing abnormal L1 or L2 for diagnosis of osteoporosis during lung cancer screening with low-dose CT and bone mineral density examination with quantitative CT. Methods: Totally 1 298 healthy individuals who underwent lung cancer screening with low-dose CT and BMD examination with quantitative CT were enrolled. BMD of T12 to L2 vertebrae were measured, and the calibrated BMD of T12 was calculated and recorded as T12*. Taking L1+L2 as diagnostic criteria, the consistencies in bone mass assessment and the differences in diagnosis of osteoporosis among vertebral combinations of T12+L1, T12+L2, T12*+L1, T12*+L2 and L1+L2 were analyzed, respectively. Results: There were good consistencies between vertebral combinations and L1+L2 in bone mass assessment (all Kappa>0.75, all P98%. The sensitivities of T12+L1 and T12+L2 in osteoporosis diagnosis were 73.33% (143/195) and 77.95% (152/195), respectively, whereas of T12*+L1 and T12*+L2 in osteoporosis diagnosis were 83.08% (162/195) and 90.26% (176/195), respectively. Conclusion: BMD of T12 for replacing abnormal L1 or L2 during quantitative CT can reduce the sensitivity in diagnosis of osteoporosis, therefore BMD of T12 should be calibrated in measurement.

Efficacy of acupuncture combined with hydro-acupuncture for transverse processes syndrome of the third lumbar vertebra / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the clinical efficacy differences between acupuncture combined with hydro-acupuncture and acupuncture alone for transverse processes syndrome of the third lumbar vertebra.@*METHODS@#One hundred patients were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group, 50 cases in each one. The patients in the control group were treated with regular acupuncture at Weizhong (BL 40), points, Jiaji (L～L) and Shenshu (BL 23); the acupuncture was given once a day, six treatments per week for consecutive 2 weeks. Based on the acupuncture treatment in the control group, in the observation group the No.5 injection needle was applied to relieve the tenderness points on the transverse process and articular process of the third lumbar vertebra, followed by hydro-acupuncture with injection (1 mL per point, 7 days per injection for 2 weeks). The visual analogue scale (VAS), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scale and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were observed before treatment, after treatment and during six-month follow-up visit in the two groups. In addition, the clinical efficacy was compared between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#Forty-eight patients completed treatment and 2 patients dropped off in the observation group, while 47 patients completed treatment and 3 patients dropped off in the control group. The total effective rate was 91.7% (44/48) in the observation group, which was significantly superior to 76.6% (36/47) in the control group (<0.05). Compared before treatment, the VAS and ODI in the two groups were reduced after treatment and during six-month follow-up visit, while the JOA was increased (all <0.05); the VAS and ODI in the observation group was lower than that in the control group, while JOA in the observation group was higher than that in the control group (all <0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Acupuncture combined with hydro-acupuncture are effective for transverse processes syndrome of the third lumbar vertebra, and could significantly improve lumbar function and relieve the pain symptoms, which is superior to regular acupuncture.

Absence Of Spinous Process, Inferior Articular Facets And Laminae Encountered In A Fifth Lumbar Vertebra Osteology Demonstration: Case Report

There are total of five lumbar verteae. Out of five, four lumbar verteae show typical features. The fifth lumbar vertea shows certain atypical features. Lumbar verteae are identified as having massive kidney–shaped bodies, superior and inferior articular facets, pedicles and thick and quadrangular spine. We observed a malformed lumbar vertea in college bone bank during routine Osteology tutorials.