Lumbar safety triangle: comparative study of coronal and coronal oblique planes in 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging / Triângulo de segurança lombar: estudo comparativo dos planos coronal e coronal oblíquo em ressonância magnética 3.0-T

Abstract Objective: To compare the measurements of the lumbar safety triangle (Kambin's triangle) and the invasion of the dorsal root ganglion in the triangle in coronal and coronal oblique planes. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study, in which 210 3.0-T magnetic resonance images of L2-L5 were analyzed in coronal and coronal oblique planes. Exams with lumbar spine anomalies were excluded. Demographic (sex and age) and radiological variables were recorded by a single evaluator. Results: Most sample was female (57.1%), mean age 45.5 ± 13.3 (18-98 years). The measurements average, as well as the areas, gradually increased from L2 to L5. The dorsal root ganglion invaded the triangle in all images. The safety triangle average area was smaller in the coronal oblique plane than in the coronal plane. Of the seven dimensions of safety triangle obtained for each level of the lumbar spine, six were significantly smaller in the coronal oblique plane than in the coronal plane. The only dimension that showed no difference was the smallest ganglion dimension. Conclusion: The dimensions and areas investigated were smaller in coronal oblique plane, especially the area (difference > 1 mm). The analysis of the triangular zone in this plane becomes important in the preoperative assessment of minimally invasive procedures.

Resumo Objetivo: Comparar as medidas do triângulo de segurança lombar (triângulo de Kambin) e invasão do gânglio da raiz dorsal no triângulo nas incidências coronal e coronal oblíqua. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo transversal, em que foram analisadas 210 imagens de ressonância magnética 3.0-T de L2-L5 nos planos coronal e coronal oblíquo. Foram excluídos exames com anomalias da coluna lombar. Variáveis demográficas (sexo e idade) e radiológicas foram registradas por um único avaliador. Resultados: A maioria da amostra era do sexo feminino (57,1%), com idade média de 45,5 ± 13,3 (18-98 anos). A média das medidas, assim como as áreas, aumentaram gradativamente de L2 a L5. O gânglio da raiz dorsal invadiu o triângulo em todas as imagens. A área média do triângulo de segurança foi menor na incidência coronal oblíqua do que na incidência coronal. Das sete dimensões do triângulo de segurança obtidas para cada nível da coluna lombar, seis foram significativamente menores no plano coronal oblíquo do que no plano coronal. Única dimensão que não apresentou diferença foi a menor dimensão do gânglio. Conclusão: As dimensões e áreas investigadas foram menores na incidência coronal oblíqua, especialmente a área (diferença > 1 mm). A análise da zona triangular nesta incidência torna-se importante na avaliação pré-operatória de procedimentos minimamente invasivos.

Nerve root transfer from C4 to C5 in brachial plexus injuries. Anatomical study and description of the surgical technique / Transferência nervosa da raiz de C4 para C5 em lesões do plexo braquial. Estudo anatômico e descrição de técnica cirúrgica

Abstract Objective This is an anatomical study of C4 and C5 roots for nerve transfers in upper brachial plexus injuries, with surgical technique demonstration. Methods Fifteen brachial plexuses from both male and female cadavers were dissected. Morphological features of C4 and C5 roots were recorded and analyzed, followed by a neurotization simulation. Results In all dissections, C4 and C5 roots morphological features allowed their mobilization and neurotization with no need for a nerve graft. The surgical technique spared important regional nerve branches. Conclusion Based on these data, we conclude that C4-C5 nerve transfers are feasible and result in no additional neurological deficit in upper brachial plexus injuries.

Resumo Objetivo Estudo anatômico das raízes usadas na transferência nervosa de C4 para C5 nas lesões altas do plexo braquial, com demonstração da técnica cirúrgica. Métodos Dissecção de 15 plexos braquiais de cadáveres de ambos os sexos, registro e análise das características morfológicas das raízes de C4 e C5 e simulação de neurotização. Resultados As características morfológicas encontradas nas raízes de C4 e C5 em todas as dissecções permitiram a mobilização das mesmas e a realização de uma neurotização sem a necessidade de usar enxerto nervoso. A técnica cirúrgica permitiu preservar ramos nervosos importantes na região abordada. Conclusão Com base nos dados encontrados no presente estudo, podemos concluir que é possível realizar a transferência entre C4 e C5 sem provocar déficit neurológico adicional nas lesões altas de plexo braquial.

Application of ultrasound-guided selective nerve branch blockage in lumbar spinal nerve posterior branch syndrome / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided selective nerve branch blockage in the treatment of lumbar spinal nerve posterior branch syndrome.@*METHODS@#A total of 40 patients with lumbar spinal nerve posterior branch syndrome treated by Pain Clinic from May 2017 to December 2018 were selected. According to the method used in locating site for nerve blockage, the patients were divided into ultrasound-guided group and anatomical positioning group, with 20 cases in each group. In anatomical positioning group, there were 7 males and 13 females, aged (63.42±7.71) years old, weighted (63.65±10.72) kg, numerical rating scale (NRS) was (6.61±1.52) scores, course of disease was (16.55±4.68) months. Pain sites:4 cases at L@*RESULTS@#There were no statistically significant differences in gender, age, weight, NRS, course of disease and pain segment distribution between two groups (@*CONCLUSION@#Comparedwith anatomicalpositioning, ultrasound-guided selective nerve branch block for the treatment of posterior branch of the lumbar spinal cord syndrome can reduce the number of treatments and maintain a longer therapeutic effect, but it is also necessary to pay attention to the time of each treatment to avoid dizziness and other adverse reactions.

The effect of needle tip position on the analgesic efficacy of pulsed radiofrequency treatment in patients with chronic lumbar radicular pain: a retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND: Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is a treatment modality that alleviates radicular pain by intermittently applying high-frequency currents adjacent to the dorsal root ganglion. There has been no comparative study on analgesic effect according to the position of the needle tip in PRF treatment. The objective of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of PRF according to the needle tip position. METHODS: Patients were classified into 2 groups (group IP [group inside of pedicle] and group OP [group outside of pedicle]) based on needle tip position in the anteroposterior view of fluoroscopy. In the anteroposterior view, the needle tip was advanced medially further than the lateral aspect of the corresponding pedicle in group IP; however, in group OP, the needle tip was not advanced. The treatment outcomes and pain scores were evaluated at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after applying PRF. RESULTS: At 4, 8, and 12 weeks, there were no significant differences between the successful response rate and numerical rating scale score ratio. CONCLUSIONS: The analgesic efficacy of PRF treatment did not differ with the needle tip position.

Correlation: impedance and tomography in implants insertion in lumbar arthrodesis / Correlação: impedância e tomografia na inserção de implantes em artrodese lombar / Correlación: impedancia y tomografía en la inserción de implantes en artrodesis lumbar

ABSTRACT Objective: To define whether the electroneurophysiological stimulation would be a safe method for reducing injuries in nerve roots during surgery of lumbar spine arthrodesis, as well as verify whether there is a direct correlation between the intraoperative impedance values and the distance from the medial cortical pedicle screw. Methods: Randomized retrospective multicenter study of 10 patients who underwent arthrodesis of lumbar spine after conservative treatment failure, with a total of 50 pedicle screws instrumented. Reliable and safe impedance values were measured in order to reduce the risk of injury to nerve roots in the perioperative period, and these values were compared with the distance between the screw and the medial cortical of the pedicle by CT scan, measured in the immediate post-operative period. Results: There is no direct correlation between the intraoperative impedance values and the distance from the screw to the medial cortical of the pedicle. Conclusion: The electroneurostimulation proved to be a reliable quantitative method to reduce the risk of injury to nerve roots during surgery of lumbar spine arthrodesis when the measured values are greater than 10mA.

RESUMO Objetivo: Definir se a estimulação eletroneurofisiológica seria um método seguro para redução de lesões em raízes nervosas no intraoperatório de artrodese de coluna lombar, bem como verificar se há correlação direta entre os valores de impedância transoperatória e a distância do parafuso e a cortical medial do pedículo. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, multicêntrico com seleção randômica consecutiva de 10 pacientes que realizaram artrodese de coluna lombossacra após falha de tratamento conservador, com um total de 50 parafusos pediculares instrumentados. Os valores confiáveis e seguros de impedância para diminuir os riscos de lesão em raízes nervosas foram aferidos no período perioperatório, sendo esses valores comparados com os da distância entre o parafuso e a cortical medial do pedículo na tomografia computadorizada, aferida no pós-operatório imediato. Resultados: Não há correlação direta entre os valores de impedância transoperatória e a distância do parafuso até a cortical medial do pedículo. Conclusão: A eletroneuroestimulação mostrou ser um método quantitativo seguro para diminuir os riscos de lesões em raízes nervosas no intraoperatório de artrodese de coluna lombar quando os valores aferidos são maiores que 10mA.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Definir si la estimulación electroneurofisiológica sería un método seguro para reducir las lesiones en las raíces nerviosas durante la cirugía de artrodesis de columna lumbar, así como verificar si hay correlación directa entre los valores de impedancia perioperatoria y la distancia entre tornillo y la cortical medial del pedículo. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, multicéntrico, con selección aleatoria consecutiva de 10 pacientes que fueron sometidos a la artrodesis de columna lumbosacra después de falla del tratamiento conservador, con un total de 50 tornillos pediculares instrumentados. Valores fiables y seguros de impedancia para reducir el riesgo de lesiones a las raíces nerviosas se midieron en el periodo perioperatorio, y estos valores se compararon con la distancia entre el tornillo y la cortical medial del pedículo en la tomografía computarizada, medida en el período postoperatorio inmediato. Resultados: No existe una correlación directa entre los valores de impedancia perioperatoria y la distancia desde el tornillo hasta la cortical medial del pedículo. Conclusión: La electroneuroestimulación mostró ser un método cuantitativo fiable para reducir el riesgo de lesiones a raíces nerviosas durante la cirugía de artrodesis de columna lumbar cuando los valores medidos son mayores que 10mA.

Anterior percutaneous endoscopic nerve root decompression for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and clinical outcome in patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy underwent cervical nerve root decompression using the anterior percutaneous endoscopic surgery.Methods Eleven subjects consisting of 6 men and 5 women treated from July 2012 to December 2013 were enrolled in the study.Mean age was 42.1 years (range, 27 to 63 years).All were diagnosed to be unilateral single-segment injury involving C3/4 in 1 case, C4/5 in 2 cases, C5/6 in 6 cases and C6/7 in 2 cases.Because of unsatisfactory results 6 week following the non-operative treatment, the patients were operated on using the anterior percutaneous endoscopic osteophyte removal and nerve root decompression.Operation time, postoperative complications, visual analogue scale (VAS) and modified Macnab scale were recorded.Results Operation time was (102.5 ± 21.3) min (range, 80-140 min).Nine patients were followed up for 12 months and no complications were noted.VAS improved significantly at postoperative 3 days and 1, 3, 6, as well as 12 months compared to the preoperative value (P ＜ 0.01).Modified Macnab scale presented great improvement at postoperative 3 and 12 months compared to the preoperative value (P ＜ 0.01).Conclusion The technique is reliable and effective in treatment of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy.

Lumbosacral Spinal Nerve Roots Imaging Using Iterative Decomposition of Water and Fat with Echo Asymmetry and Least-squares Estimation Sequence on 3.0T MRI / 中国医学影像学杂志

PurposeTo investigate the feasibility and clinical value of 3.0T MRI iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation (IDEAL) technique in imaging normal lumbosacral nerve roots.Materials and Methods Twenty-five healthy volunteers and 15 patients with lumbosacral pain were examined on MR scanner using IDEAL sequence thin-layer coronal scanning and reconstruction technique. The evaluation of bilateral lumbosacral nerve roots from L1 to S1 included the detection rate of lumbosacral nerve roots, the length of preganglionic nerve, the width and length of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and the length of nerve root sheath.Results The anatomic structure and the contour of spinal nerve roots were well demonstrated on IDEAL sequence imaging, with 100% detection rate for preganglionic nerve and DRGs of nerves from L1 to S1 level, as well as the structures posterior to the ganglions from L3 to S1 level. The structures posterior to the ganglions at L1 to L2 level were shown as grade I in 12% and 42%, grade II in 16% and 32%, grade III in 72% and 26%. The length of preganglionic nerve, DRGs and nerve root sheath from L1 to S1 were gradually increased (P<0.05 orP<0.001). Normal lumbosacral nerve roots appeared as isointense linear structure in the nerve canals.ConclusionIDEAL sequence can depict the anatomic structure of the lumbosacral nerve roots and provide reference standards for lumbosacral nerve roots compression.

A control study of C5 palsy after expansive open-door laminoplasty with miniplate or suture/anchor fixation / 中华骨科杂志

Objective To evaluate and compare C5 palsy and closure of the opened lamina after expansive open-door Laminoplasty (EOLP) with miniplate or suture/anchor fixation.Methods Between January 2011 and January 2013,a total of 142 patients with cervical myelopathy who were treated by EOLP were divided into hinge-side fixation group (fixed with suture/anchor,78 cases)and open-side fixation group (fixed with miniplate,64 cases).The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score was used for neurological assessment and recovery rate (RR) counting.Opening angles,cervical curvature index (CCI),posterior shifting of spinal cord (PSSC) and severity of cord compression were recorded and compared.Results All patients in both group were followed up for more than 12 months.All incisions healed by first intention.C5 palsy occurred in 9 patients (9/78,11.5％) of hingeside fixation group,and 1 patients (1/64,1.6％) of open-side fixation group,showing significant difference (P=0.047).Opening angles and PSSC in hinge-side fixation group were greater than that in open-side fixation group.PSSC of 10 patients with C5 palsy were 3.97±1.19 mm,and greater than that of other patients without C5 palsy 2.57± 1.01 mm.There was no significant difference in CCI before (12.23％±3.70％,11.38％±4.29％) and 1 week (12.12％±3.77％,11.31％±4.35％) after operation.No significant difference was found in JOA scores (12.35±1.09,13.55±0.91),JOA improvement rate (64.24％±9.49％,61.78％±11.48％) and cord compression (0.74±0.71,0.75±0.67) at 12 months after operation.In 6 months postoperatively,27％ of patients in hinge-side fixation group,none in open-side fixation group were identified with 10％ decrease or more in opening angles of lamina.Conclusion EOLP with miniplate fixation has the same clinical outcome as fixed with suture/anchor,but will reduce the incidence of C5 palsy and prevent further closure of the opened lamina.

Cauda equina redundant nerve roots are associated to the degree of spinal stenosis and to spondylolisthesis / Associação entre a presença de raízes redundantes na cauda equina e a área seccional do saco dural avaliada por meio de ressonância magnética

To evaluate the association of redundant nerve roots of cauda equina (RNRCE) with the degree of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) and with spondylolisthesis. Method After Institutional Board approval, 171 consecutive patients were retrospectively enrolled, 105 LSS patients and 66 patients without stenosis. The dural sac cross-sectional area (CSA) was measured on T2w axial MRI at the level of L2-3, L3-4 and L4-5 intervertebral discs. Two blinded radiologists classified cases as exhibiting or not RNRCE in MRI. Intra- and inter-observer reproducibility was assessed. Results RNRCE were associated with LSS. RRNCE was more frequent when maximum stenosis<55 mm2. Substantial intra- observer agreement and moderate inter-observer agreement were obtained in the classification of RNRCE. Spondylolisthesis was identified in 27 patients and represented increased risk for RRNCE. Conclusion LSS is a risk factor for RNRCE, especially for dural sac CSA<55 mm2. LSS and spondylolisthesis are independent risk factors for RNRCE. .

Avaliar associação entre raízes nervosas redundantes da cauda eqüina (RNRCE) com grau de estenose do canal lombar (ECL) e espondilolistese. Método Após aprovação do Comitê de Ética, 171 pacientes foram selecionados retrospectivamente, 105 com ECL e 66 sem estenose. Foram realizadas mensurações da área seccional do saco dural em imagens axiais de RM ponderadas em T2 em L2/L3, L3/L4 e L4/L5. Presença ou não de RRNCE foi classificada de forma independente por dois radiologistas, às cegas. Concordância intra e inter-observador foi analisada. Resultados RNRCE foi associada à ECL e foi mais freqüente quando a máxima estenose encontrada foi <55mm2. Houve grande concordância intra-observador e moderada inter-observador na classificação das RRNCE. Espondilolistese foi identificada em 27 pacientes e representou maior risco para desenvolvimento de RNRCE. Conclusão ECL é fator de risco para RNRCE, especialmente com áreas seccionais <55mm2. ECL e espondilolistese representam fatores de risco independentes para desenvolvimento de RNRCE. .

Localization diagnosis of lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis from multi-dimensional MRI scans of lumbar nerve roots / 中华骨科杂志

Objective To explore the localization diagnosis method of lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis by multi-di-mensional MRI scans of lumbar nerve roots. Methods Twenty-one patients with lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis were fol-lowed up from June 2006 to June 2011 postoperatively, 10 cases of male, 11 cases of female;36 to 65 years old, average 45.6 years. The medical history is six to thirty six months, an average of 9.4 years;5 cases have low back pain with unilateral leg pain and 16 cases showed unilateral leg pain only. The height of intervertebral space and foramen intervertebrale were measured on the X-rays of lumbar lateral position. Lumbar nerve roots MR imaging at the position of axial, coronal and sagittal scan were performed separately to the patients who were clinically suspected to suffer from lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis. A definitive diagno-sis of the location of nerve root compression and structural changes surrounding the nerve root can be obtained. Surgical operation was performed to confirm the accuracy of the MRI imaging diagnosis. Results There were 9 cases of lumbar intervertebral fora-men stenosis caused by lumbar disc herniation. The other 12 cases are caused by zygapophyseal joint hyperplasia. All cases of lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis located at the low back. By comparing MR images of lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis with surgical procedure,the surgical observation of 21 patients completely coincided with the preoperative localization diagnosis, coincidence rate was 100%(21/21). After surgical treatment, 20 cases achieved a complete remission of leg pain and 1 case was not satisfactory. Conclusion MRI imaging at the position of axial, coronal and sagittal scan for lumbar nerve roots were useful to rigorous localization diagnosis of lumbar intervertebral foramen stenosis, and can provide accurate radiological evidence for sur-gery program.

Quantitative evaluation of normal lumbosacral plexus nerve by using diffusion tensor imaging / 中华放射学杂志

Objective To observe the lumbosacral plexus nerves by diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) and quantitatively evaluate them by using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in healthy volunteers.Methods A total of 60 healthy volunteers (30 males and 30 females) underwent DTI scanning.Mean FA values of the lumbosacral plexus nerves (both sides of lumbar roots L3 to S1,proximal and distal to the lumbar foraminal zone) were quantified.Differences among various segments of lumbar nerve roots were compared with ANOVA test and SNK test.Differences between two sides of the lumbar nerve roots at the same lumbar segment were compared with paired-samples t test.Differences between the proximal and the distal nerve to the the lumbar foraminal zone at the same lumbar segment were compared with paired-samples t test.The lumbosacral plexus nerve was visualized with tractography.Results (1) The lumbosacral plexus nerve was clearly visualized with tractography.(2) Mean FA values of the lumbar nerve roots L3 to S1 were as followings:proximal to the left lumbar foraminal zone 0.202 ± 0.021,0.201 ± 0.026,0.201 ± 0.027,0.191 ±0.016,distal to the left lumbar foraminal zone 0.222 ± 0.034,0.250 ± 0.028,0.203 ± 0.026,0.183 ± 0.020,proximal to the right lumbar foraminal zone 0.200 ± 0.023,0.202 ± 0.023,0.205 ± 0.027,0.191 ±0.017,distal to the right lumbar foraminal zone 0.225 ±0.032,0.247 ±0.027,0.205 ± 0.033,0.183 ±0.021.Mean FA values were significantly different between the proximal nerve to the distal nerve in lumbar nerve roots L3,L4,S1 (t =-9.114-2.366,P ＜ 0.05),but not significantly different in L5 (P ＞ 0.05).Differences were not found between the right and left side nerves at the same lumbar segment (P ＞ 0.05).(3) The whole length of the lumbar roots nerve L3 to S1 can be visualized clearly by using DTT.Conclusions Diffusion tensor imaging and tractography can show and provide quantitative information of human lumbosacral plexus nerves.DTI is a potential tool for the diagnosis of lumbosacral plexus nerve disease.

Diffusion weighted imaging of lumbar sacral nerve roots in normal and degenerative lumbosacral vertebrae / 实用医学杂志

Objective To explore the characteristics of diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) of lumbar sacral nerve roots (LSNR)in normal and degenerative lumbosacral vertebrae. Methods The research recruited 20 normal volunteers and 31 patients with spinal stenosis on conventional MRI and DWI scans in lumbosacral spine. We measured the areas from lumbar 3 to sacral 1 at the intervertebral spaces and reconstructed the 3D maximum intensity projection (MIP) and counted the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)of LSNR and ganglions. Results In the control group, 196 (98%) LSNR ran symmetrically and lateroinferiorly and 200 ganglions were well defined on MIP of DWI. In the patients group, 74 LSNR showed changes of compression on both T1WI and T2WI, in which DWI appeared thin and distorted in 59 (80%). The ADC value of LSNR were(1.70 ± 0.40)× 10-3 mm2/s and(1.98 ± 0.57) × 10-3 mm2/s separately in normal volunteers and patients (P=0.000), while the ADC values of ganglions were(1.42 ± 0.21)× 10-3 mm2/s and (1.54 ± 0.53)× 10-3 mm2/s respectively in normal volunteers and patients (P=0.000). Conclusion DWI can display the pattern and course of LSNR and ganglions, which indicate that ADC values of compressed LSNR and ganglions are higher than normal ones.

Operative safety analysis of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in Chinese people based on the anatomical study by magnetic resonance neurography / 中华骨科杂志

Objective To measure the related anatomical parameters of lumbosacral nerve root and adjacent structures by magnetic resonance neurography,and to analyze operative safety of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in Chinese people.Methods A total of 12 healthy volunteers,including 6 males and 6 females,underwent magnetic resonance neurography of lumbosacral nerve root using a Siemens 3.0T MRI machine.The Osirix software was used to reconstruct the three-dimensional imaging and measure the following anatomic parameters: 1) the distance between the nerve root and the superior pedicle; 2) the distance between the nerve root and the inferior pedicle; 3) the angle between the nerve root and the sagittal plane; 4) the distance between the superior and inferior nerve roots; 5) the distance between the superior and inferior pedicles.Results L1-L5 nerve roots got a good imaging by magnetic resonance neurography in all 12 volunteers.The distance between the nerve root and the superior pedicle and the angle between the nerve root and the sagittal plane gradually became smaller from L1 to L5.But the variation in the distance between the nerve root and the inferior pedicle and the distance between the superior and inferior pedicles was not obvious.The distance between the nerve root and the inferior pedicles,which was closely related to the operating space of TLIF,ranged from (8.99±0.88) mm to (10.72±1.01) mm for males and from (7.76±0.46) mm to (8.54±0.65) mm for females; it was less than 10 mm in each segments in the majority of subjects,and the data of females was significantly smaller than that of males.No significant differences were found in parameters between the left and right sides in the same segment.Conclusion Based on the above anatomical study and measurement analysis,we believe that there is some harassment to the upper nerve root in TLIF for Chinese patients,and for some patients there is a certain injury risk.

Effective reinnervation of the quadriceps femoris by spinal ventral root cross-anastomosis in rats / Reinervação efetiva do quadríceps femoral pela anastomose cruzada via raiz espinhal ventral em ratos

PURPOSE: To study the effective recovery of the quadriceps femoris by spinal ventral root cross-anastomosis in rats. METHODS: End-to-end anastomosis was performed between the left L1 and L3 ventral roots using autogenous nerve graft ,and the right L1 and L3 roots were left intact. In control animals, the left L3 ventral root was cut and shortened, and anastomosis was not performed. Six months postoperatively, the movement of low extremities was detected by electrophysiological examination, hindlimb locomotion and basso, beattie and bresnahan (BBB) scoring at one, three, seven, 14, 21 and 28 days after SCI. Fluorescence retrograde tracing with TRUE BLUE (TB) and HE staining were performed to observe the nerve regeneration. RESULTS: Six months after surgery, the anastomotic nerve was smooth and not atrophic. The amplitudes of action potential were 7.63±1.86 mV and 6.0±1.92 mV respectively before and after the spinal cord hemisection. The contraction of left quadriceps femoris was induced by a single stimulation of the anastomotic nerve. The locomotion of left hindlimb was partially restored after spinal cord hemisection while creeping and climbing. In addition, there was significant difference in the BBB score at one, three and seven days after SCI. TB retrograde tracing and neurophysiologic observation indicated efficient reinnervation of the quadriceps femoris. CONCLUSION: The cross-anastomosis between spinal ventral root can partially reconstruct the function of quadriceps femoris following SCI and may have clinical implication for the treatment of human SCI.

OBJETIVO: Investigar a recuperação efetiva do músculo quadríceps femoral pela anastomose cruzada via raiz espinhal ventral em ratos. MÉTODOS: Anastomose término-terminal foi realizada entre as raízes ventrais L1 e L3 à esquerda usando enxerto autógeno de nervo e, à direita, as raízes L1 e L3 foram mantidas intactas. Nos animais controles, à esquerda, a raiz ventral de L3 foi cortada e encurtada sem realização de anastomose. Após seis meses, o movimento das extremidades posteriores foi estudado por exame eletrofisiológico, e pelo escore de basso, beattie e bresnahan (BBB) com um, três, sete, 14, 21 e 28 dias após SCI. Fluorescência retrograde feita com TRUE BLUE (TB) e coloração com HE foram realizadas para observar a regeneração do nervo. RESULTADOS: Seis meses após a cirurgia, a anastomose do nervo estava lisa e sem atrofia. As amplitudes dos potenciais de ação foram 7,63±1,86 mV e 6,0±1,92 mV respectivamente antes e após a hemisecção da medula espinhal. A contração do músculo quadríceps femoral foi induzida por um único estímulo do nervo anastomosado. A locomoção do membro posterior esquerdo foi parcialmente restaurada após hemisecção da medula espinhal ao rastejar e escalar. Ademais, houve diferença significante no escore BBB nos dias um, três e sete após SCI. O traçado da TB retrógrada e a observação neurofisiológica indicaram reinervação eficiente do quadríceps femoral. CONCLUSÃO: A anastomose cruzada entre as raízes espinhais ventrais podem reconstruir parcialmente a função do quadríceps femoral após SCI e pode ter implicação clínica para o tratamento da SCI.

Effect of highly selective nerve injury on skin wound healing in rats / 中华创伤杂志

ObjectiveTo establish a rat model of pure sensory nerve injury or pure motor nerve injury combined with skin defect to examine the effect of highly selective nerve injury on skin wound healing.MethodsA total of 90 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly and equally divided into three different groups including Group A (posterior rhizotomy + cutaneous excision wounding group),Group B (anterior rhizotomy + cutaneous excision wounding group) and Group C ( sham operation + cutaneous excision wounding group).The wound healing rate was detected at days 2,7,14 and 21 after injury.The CGRP mRNA expression was determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at days 1,3,7 and 14 after injury.The Bcl-2 protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry at days 3,7,14 and 21 after injury.ResultsThe wound healing rate in the Groups A and C was significantly higher than that in the Group B at day 2 ( P ＜ 0.05 ),with no statistical difference between Group A and Group C (P ＞ 0.05 ).The wound healing rate in the Group C was higher than that in the Groups A and B at days 7 and 14 (P ＜0.05),with no statistical difference between Group A and Group B (P ＞0.05).The wound healing rate in the Groups B and C was higher than that in the Group A at day 21 ( P ＜ O.05 ),with no statistical difference between Group B and Group C ( P ＞ 0.05 ).The CGRP mRNA was expressed in three groups and the expression was up-regulated after wound.The CGRP mRNA expression in the Groups B and C was significantly higher than that in the Group A at days 1,3 and 7,with no statistical difference between Group B and Group C ( P ＞ 0.05 ).The CGRP mRNA expression was distributed as Group C ＞ Group B ＞ Group A at day 7 ( P ＜ 0.05 ) and Group B ＞ Group A ＞ Group C at day 14 (P ＜ 0.05 ).Immunohistochemistry indicated that there was no statistical difference in Bcl-2 protein expression at day 3 after injury in all groups; that the Bcl-2 protien expression in the Group C was significantly higher than that in the Groups A and B at day 7 ( P ＜ 0.05 ),with no statistical difference between Group A and Group B ( P ＞ 0.05 ) ; that the Bcl-2 protien expression was distributed as Group C ＞ Group B ＞ Group A at day 14 ; that the Bclo2 protien expression in the Group B was higher than that in the Groups A and C at day 21 (P ＜0.05),with no statistical difference between Group A and Group C (P ＞ 0.05).ConclusionsIn wound healing process,the sensory nerve plays a more important role than the motor nerve.Denervation of the nerves ( especially the sensory nerves) is not conducive to wound healing,and complete innervation is necessary for normal wound healing.

Repair of sacral plexus root avulsion with normal sacral nerve root transposition in rats / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To evaluate the efficiency of normal sacral nerve root transposition in repair of the sacral plexus root avulsion. Methods A total of 30 adult SD rats were chosen and divided into three groups,ie,group A(the sciatic nerve received no repair),group B(the autologous sacral plexus root nerve was bridged with the right L6 nerve root by the translocation of the left L6)and group C (the right L5 nerve root nerve was bridged by the translocation of the left L6),10 rats per group.The left side of the rats was used as the control side and the right one as the experimental side.Twelve weeks after operation,the rats in each group were selected for the histomorphological observation of the nerves under the microscope and the electron microscope.The models were evaluated by observing the survival rates of the rats,BBB scores,electron microscope weight and muscle fiber CSA(cross section area)of double biceps femoris,triceps surae and tibial muscle. Results Twelve weeks after operation,the BBB scores in groups B and C was higher than that in group A,with statistical difference(P<0.01)between three groups.A remarkable improvement was found in the ratio of weight and muscle fiber CSA of double biceps femoris,triceps surse and tibial muscle.The repair efficiency in the group C was better than that in the group B.In the group B,the biceps femoris,triceps surae and tibial muscle recovered at different degrees.The biceps femoris recovered the best,when a great deal of myelinated nerve fiber regeneration was observed under the microscope and the electromicroscope.Electromyography revealed the volatility in the muscles of three groups,with larger peak value for the proximal biceps femoris and the triceps muscle but smaller peak value for the distal anterior tibial muscle. Conclusions L6 transposition combined with auto-graft of nerve root or without the auto-graft can reconstruct the partial function of the sciatic nerve in the paraplegia rats,when the latter has the better effect.

Morphometric Study of the Nerve Roots Around the Lateral Mass for Posterior Foraminotomy

OBJECTIVE: Morphometric data on dorsal cervical anatomy were examined in an effort to protect the nerve root near the lateral mass during posterior foraminotomy. METHODS: Using 25 adult formalin-fixed cadaveric cervical spines, measurements were taken at the lateral mass from C3 to C7 via a total laminectomy and a medial one-half facetectomy. The morphometric relationship between the nerve roots and structures of the lateral mass was investigated. Results from both genders were compared. RESULTS: Following the total laminectomy, from C3 to C7, the mean of the vertical distance from the medial point of the facet (MPF) of the lateral mass to the axilla of the root origin was 3.2-4.7 mm. The whole length of the exposed root had a mean of 4.2-5.8 mm. Following a medial one-half facetectomy, from C3 to C7, the mean of the vertical distance to the axilla of the root origin was 2.1-3.4 mm, based on the MPF. Mean vertical distances from the MPF to the medial point of the root that crossed the inferior margin of the intervertebral disc were 1.2-2.7 mm. The mean distance of the exposed root was 8.2-9.0 mm, and the mean angle between the dura and the nerve root was significantly different between males and females, at 53.4-68.4degrees. CONCLUSION: These data will aid in reducing root injuries during posterior cervical foraminotomy.

Neurosarcoidosis Presenting as Spinal Nerve Root Pain of Trunk

A 60-year-old man developed severe pain and numbness around the trunk 4 months prior to admission. On examination he showed multiple cranial neuropathies. Girdle-like paresthesia and facial diplegia prompted a possible diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis. Chest computed tomography demonstrated bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy, and histological findings were consistent with sarcoidosis. These observations indicate that it is important to pay attention to neurosarcoidosis when patients show unknown spinal root pain, even though this is a rare condition.

Sensory involvement in the SOD1-G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

A subset of patients of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) present with mutation of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), and such mutants caused an ALS-like disorder when expressed in rodents. These findings implicated SOD1 in ALS pathogenesis and made the transgenic animals a widely used ALS model. However, previous studies of these animals have focused largely on motor neuron damage. We report herein that the spinal cords of mice expressing a human SOD1 mutant (hSOD1-G93A), besides showing typical destruction of motor neurons and axons, exhibit significant damage in the sensory system, including Wallerian-like degeneration in axons of dorsal root and dorsal funiculus, and mitochondrial damage in dorsal root ganglia neurons. Thus, hSOD1-G93A mutation causes both motor and sensory neuropathies, and as such the disease developed in the transgenic mice very closely resembles human ALS.

Diagnosis and treatment of lumbosacral nerve roots anomalies / 中国矫形外科杂志

[Objective]To investigate the diagnosis and treatment of lumbosacral nerve roots anomalies. [Method]Etiological factors,typing,diagnosis and treatment of lumbosacral nerve roots anomalies confirmed by operation were analyzed.Operative treatment included wide laminectomy(n=8),hemilaminectomy(n=8) and enlargement fenestration(n=9).[Result]The presenting symptoms of lumbosacral nerve roots anomalies often resulted from lumbar disc herniation or spinal canal stenosis.The typs of lumbosacral nerve roots anomalies included conjoined nerve roots(n=10),closely adjacent roots(n=8),thickening of nerve roots(n=2),caudal origin roots(n=2),division of nerve roots(n=1),double nerve roots(n=1),and anastomosis of nerve roots(n=1).The levels of nerve roots anomalies were L4 in 1,L5 in 14,and S1 in 10.Only 5 cases were diagnosed preoperatively by myelography,CT or MRI.The others were found at operation.All patients were followed up for more than 2 years.Postoperatively,the results were rated as excellent in 12,good in 8,and fair in 4.One patient had residual radiating pain in the lower lims and weakness in dorsiflexion of the foot. [Conclusion] Radicular symptoms of lumbosacral nerve roots anomalies are changeable.The preoperative diagnosis is difficult to establish by myelography,CT or MRI(axial and sagittal plane).It is necessary to heighten the sensitivity of diagnostic modalities.It may improve the surgical outcomes to expose sufficiently,to explore the nerve roots carefully and to decompress thoroughly.