Association Between Constipation and a Reduction in Lower Limb Muscle Strength in Preoperative Patients with Thoracic Spinal Tumors / 中国医学科学杂志(英文版)

Objective To investigate the clinical symptoms experienced by patients with thoracic spinal tumors and verify the associated symptoms that are predictive of a decline in muscle strength in the lower limbs. Methods A single-center, retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on in-patients diagnosed with epidural thoracic spinal tumors between January 2011 and May 2021. The study involved a review of electronic medical records and radiographs and the collection of clinical data. The differences in clinical manifestations between patients with constipation and those without constipation were analyzed. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors associated with a decline in muscle strength in the lower limbs.Results A total of 227 patients were enrolled, including 131 patients with constipation and 96 without constipation. The constipation group had a significantly higher proportion of patients who experienced difficulty walking or paralysis compared to those without constipation prior to surgery (83.2% vs. 17.7%, χ2 = 99.035,P < 0.001). Constipation (OR = 9.522, 95%CI: 4.150-21.849, P < 0.001) and urinary retention (OR = 14.490, 95%CI: 4.543-46.213, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for muscle strength decline in the lower limbs. Conclusions The study observed that patients with thoracic spinal tumors who experienced constipation symptoms had a higher incidence of lower limb weakness. Moreover, the analysis revealed that constipation and urinary retention were independent risk factors associated with a preoperative decline in muscle strength of lower limbs.

Manejo quirúrgico de ependimomas en médula cervical: A propósito de un caso clínico / Surgical management of ependymomas in the cervical spine: Apropos of a clinical case

Introducción: los ependimomas son tumores cerebrales que surgen de células ependimarias, células de soporte en el cerebro y la médula espinal. Representan entre el 2 y el 3% de todos los tumores cerebrales primarios. Son el cuarto tumor cerebral más común en los niños, donde el 90% de los mismos se localizan en la fosa posterior. En adultos, el 60% de estos tumores se encuentran en la médula espinal pudiendo presentarse a cualquier nivel de ésta; el caso a continuación reporta un ependimoma cervical. Objetivo: reportar un caso de ependimoma medular de ubicación poco frecuente, con resección total, sin recidiva porterior a 2 años de seguimiento.Descripción del caso: se reporta el caso de un paciente adulto, 44 años, masculino, con un síndrome medular cervical completo, progresivo, provocado por un ependimoma cervical. Intervención: se realizó laminectomía de dos espacios [C7 a T1], apertura dural, mielotomía posterior logrando exéresis total de la lesión con durorrafia a sello de agua y posterior cierre por planos sin complicaciones, con seguimiento de 2 años de sobrevida. Conclusiones: la resección total macroscópica de este tipo de tumores es muy importante para poder evitar residiva. El ependimoma cervical puede recidivar, sobre todo cuando existen residuales de la lesión. El manejo oportuno depende de gran manera de que los pacientes acudan tempranamente a valoración especializada; la resección guiada con monitorización neurofisiológica transoperatoria provee mayor oportunidad a los pacientes a no presentar secuelas permanentes y permite asimismo, mejores resultados de la rehabilitación neurológica postoperatoria

Introduction: ependymomas are brain tumors that arise from ependymal cells, supporting cells in the brain and spinal cord. They represent between 2 and 3% of all primary brain tumors. They are the fourth most common brain tumor in children, where 90% of them are located in the posterior fossa. In adults, 60% of these tumors are found in the spinal cord and can occur at any level of the spinal cord; the case below reports a cervical ependymoma. Objective: to report a case of medullary ependymoma of rare location, with total resection, without recurrence after 2 years of follow-up. Case description: a 44-year-old male adult patient with a progressive, complete cervical spinal cord syndrome, caused by a cervical ependymoma, is reported.Intervention: two-space laminectomy [C7 to T1], dural opening and posterior myelotomy were performed, achieving total excision of the lesion with water-seal durorrhaphy and subsequent closure by planes without complications, with a 2-year survival follow-up. Conclusions: macroscopic total resection of this type of tumor is very important to avoid residual. Cervical ependymoma can recur, especially when there is residual lesion. Timely management depends to a great extent on the patients attending early for a specialized evaluation; guided resection with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring provides a greater opportunity for patients to not present permanent sequelae and also allows better results of postoperative neurological rehabilitation.

Tratamiento quirúrgico de las metástasis espinales epidurales / Surgical Treatment for Epidural Spine Metastasis

Introducción:Los tumores metastásicos son los más comunes de la columna vertebral.Objetivo:Evaluar los resultados quirúrgicos de pacientes con metástasis espinales epidurales, según dolor pre-y posoperatorio, estado neurológico e índice de discapacidad.Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de tipo longitudinal retrospectivo en una muestra de 34 pacientes de 20 o más años de edad ‒universo conformado por 62 pacientes‒con metástasis espinal, atendidos en el hospital "Hermanos Ameijeiras" entre enero 2016-marzo 2018 y operados con técnica de descompresión por corpectomía y fijación de columna. Se comprobóla intensidad del dolor mediante la escala Denis;el estado neurológico mediante la escala de Frankel y el porcentaje de discapacidad a través de la escala Oswestry. Se aplicaron pruebas de significación estadística. La investigación cumplió con los principios de la Declaración de Helsinski.Resultados:predominaron los pacientes de 40 a 59 años (64,7 por ciento) y sexo masculino (67,6 por ciento). El tumor primario más frecuente fue el hematopoyético (41,2 por ciento), con afectación del segmento torácico (57,9 por ciento). La técnica criolla, la más empleada con el 44,1 por ciento. En el preoperatorio la mayoría se encontraban en Denis III, con Frankel D y 66,2 por ciento de discapacidad. En la evaluación posoperatoria la mayoría se encontraban en un Denis entre 0 y 1, Frankel E con conservación del estado neurológico y 31,4 por ciento de incapacidad (p= 0,000). Conclusiones:El tratamiento quirúrgico de los pacientes con metástasis vertebral por medio de instrumentación y descompresión tiene beneficios clínicos, sobre todo, la mejora del dolor y de la función neurológica(AU)

Introduction: Metastatic tumors are the most frequent in the spine. Objective: To evaluate surgical results in patients with epidural spine metastatic tumors, according to pain before and after surgery, their neurological status, and disability index. Methods: This is a retrospective longitudinal descriptive study in a sample of 34 patients older than 20 years- longitudinal descriptive study in a sample of 34 patients aged 20 or over from a universe made up of 62 patients. They had spinal metastases, they were treated at Hermanos Ameijeiras hospital from January 2016 to March 2018. They underwent surgery with a decompression technique by corpectomy and spinal fixation. Pain intensity was verified using Denis scale; neurological status using Frankel scale and the percentage of disability using Oswestry scale. Statistical significance tests were applied. The investigation complied with the principles of Declaration of Helsinki. Results: Patients aged 40 to 59 years (64.7percent) and male (67.6 percent) predominated. The most frequent primary tumor was hematopoietic (41.2 percent), with involvement of the thoracic segment (57.9 percent). The Cuban technique was the most used (44.1 percent). During the preoperative period, the majority were in Denis III, with Frankel D and 66.2 percent were disabled. At the postoperative evaluation, the majority were in Denis between 0 and 1, Frankel E with preservation of neurological status and 31.4 percent of disability (p= 0.000). Conclusions: Surgical treatment of patients with vertebral metastases by means of instrumentation and decompression has clinical benefits, above all, the improvement of pain and neurological function(AU)

Abordaje mínimamente invasivo para el tratamiento de tumores espinales intradurales extramedulares / Minimally invasive approach for the treatment of extramedullary intradural spinal tumors

Introducción: Describir la técnica de abordaje mínimamente invasiva para el tratamiento de tumores intradurales extramedulares en los diferentes segmentos espinales. Material y Métodos: Se detallan la planificación, posicionamiento, marcación, pasos técnicos del abordaje mínimamente invasivo, exéresis lesional y cierre de lesiones ID-EM a nivel cervical, dorsal, lumbar y sacro. Se proporcionan recomendaciones para descomplejizar maniobras quirúrgicas, acortar el tiempo operativo y evitar potenciales complicaciones. Conclusiones: El abordaje MISS es una opción segura y eficaz para el tratamiento quirúrgico de determinados tumores ID-EM.

Objective: To describe the technique of minimally invasive approach for the treatment of intradural extramedullary tumors in the different spinal segments. Material and Methods: The planning, positioning, skin marking, technical steps of the minimally invasive approach, lesion resection, and closure of ID-EM lesions at the cervical, dorsal, lumbar and sacral levels are detailed. Recommendations are provided to simplify surgical maneuvers, shorten operative time and avoid potential complications. Conclusions: The MIS approach is a safe and effective option for the surgical treatment of certain ID-EM tumors.

Resultados neurológicos en pacientes con diagnóstico de tumores raquídeos intradurales extramedulares / Neurological results in patients diagnosed with intradural spinal tumors

Se presentan a continuación los resultados neurológicos de 10 pacientes con diagnóstico de tumor intramedular extradural que fueron intervenidos quirúrgicamente en el Hospital Teodoro Maldonado Carbo durante el periodo enero 2015 a junio 2017. Se encontraron ocho hombres (80 %) y dos mujeres (20 %) con un promedio de edad de 44,4 años. El periodo de seguimiento posoperatorio fue de seis meses. La clínica neurológica,localización axial y sagital de los tumores, resultados histopatológicos fueron analizados. Los resultados neurológicos encontrados en el preoperatorio y en el periodo posoperatorio a los seis meses de seguimiento fueron evaluados de acuerdo con la clasificación ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association); y, el Score de Rankin modificado. Los resultados histopatológicos fueron los siguientes: cuatro casos (40 %) de schwannoma, tres casos (30 %) de meningioma, un caso (10 %) de plasmocitoma, un caso (10 %) de ependimoma y un caso (10 %) de metástasis de otros tumores. Se presentaron complicaciones en el 20 % de casos: un caso (10 %) de infección de herida quirúrgica; y, otro caso (10 %) de fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo. En el 70 % de casos, al seguimiento seis meses luego de la cirugía se encontró mejoría en la clínica neurológica; y, en 30 % de los casos no hubo cambios neurológicos. Al valorar la Escala de Rankin modificada se encontró que tres pacientes (30 %) se recuperaron completamente, evolucionando desde un grado 2 (incapacidad leve) a un grado 1 (sin incapacidad); por otro lado, cuatro casos (40 %) mejoraron su grado de incapacidad funcional; y, tres casos (30 %) no mostraron cambios en cuanto a suincapacidad funcional, es decir, sin variaciones en su clínica neurológica. Podemos concluir que el diagnóstico oportuno y el tratamiento precoz mejoran la morbilidad y el grado de discapacidad, puesto que, ante un mayor déficit neurológico menor es el resultado pronóstico neurológico. Los resultados dependerán, por lo tanto, del momento oportuno de la intervención quirúrgica raquídea descompresiva.

We present the neurological results of 10 patients diagnosed with Extradural Intramedullary Tumor who underwent surgery at Teodoro Maldonado Carbo Hospital during the period January 2015 to June 2017. Eight men (80 %) and two women (20 %) were found with an average age of 44,4 years. The postoperative follow-up period was six months. Neurological symptoms, axial and sagittal localization of the tumors, histopathological results were analyzed. The neurological results found in the preoperative period and in the postoperative period at six months of follow-up were evaluated according to the ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) classification; and, the modified Rankin Score. The histopathological results were the following: four cases (40 %) of schwannoma, three cases (30 %) of meningioma, one case (10 %) of plasmacytoma, one case (10 %) of ependymoma and one case (10 %) of metastasis of other tumors. Complications occurred in 20 % of cases: one case (10 %) surgical wound infection, and in anothercase (10 %) cerebrospinal fluid fistula. In 70 % of cases, at follow-up six months after surgery, improvement was found in the neurological clinic; and, in 30 % of the cases there were not neurological changes. When assessing the modified Rankin scale, it was found that three patients (30 %) recovered completely, evolving from a grade 2 (mild disability) to a grade 1 (without disability); On the other hand, four cases (40 %) improved their degree of functional disability; and, three cases (30 %) did not show changes in their functional disability, that is, without variations in their neurological clinic. We can conclude that timely diagnosis and early treatment improves morbidity and the degree of disability, since, in the face of a greater neurological deficit, the neurological outcome is lower. The results will therefore depend on the opportune moment of the decompression spinal surgery.

Corpectomia lateral parcial para o tratamento de compressão ventral extradural crônica entre T9-T10 em um cão / Partial lateral corpectomy for treatment of chronic ventral extradural compression between T9-T10 in a dog

Objetivou-se relatar um caso de protrusão do disco intervertebral com localização atípica e descrever a técnica cirúrgica de corpectomia lateral parcial no tratamento da afecção em um cão. Um cão de sete anos de idade, macho, raça Pug, foi atendido com ataxia proprioceptiva dos membros pélvicos havia três meses, associada à doença do disco intervertebral entre a nona e 10ª vértebras torácicas. Após um mês de tratamento conservativo sem melhora, o paciente foi encaminhado para o tratamento cirúrgico, quando foi realizada corpectomia lateral parcial esquerda para descompressão da medula espinhal. Após a cirurgia, o paciente apresentou melhora considerável do quadro, sendo a técnica eficaz na remoção da compressão extradural, sem manipulação da medula espinhal ou outras complicações.(AU)

The aim of this study is to report a case of intervertebral disc protrusion with atypical location and describe the surgical technique of partial lateral corpectomy in the treatment of this disease in a dog. A dog, seven -years-old, male, Pug breed was attended with proprioceptive ataxia of the hind limbs for three months correlated with intervertebral disc disease between the 9th and 10th thoracic vertebrae. After a month of conservative treatment without improvements, the patient was referred for surgical treatment, which was performed as a partial left lateral corpectomy for decompression of the spinal cord. After surgery, the patient showed considerable improvement, this technique being shown to be effective in the removal of extradural compression, without manipulation of the spinal cord or other complications.(AU)

Spinal tumors in children / Tumores de coluna em crianças

Summary Introduction: Spinal tumors are rare in the pediatric population, presenting many specific peculiarities when compared to adults. We have performed a broad narrative review to describe the most common spinal tumors in children, discussing their main characteristics and management options. Method: The authors have performed an extensive review of the peer-reviewed literature addressing the aforementioned objectives. Results: Multimodality radiological studies (plain films, 3D computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging) are necessary for proper evaluation and differential diagnosis of spinal tumors in children. In selected cases nuclear medicine imaging is used to improve the chances of a more accurate diagnosis. As a general rule, a fine needle biopsy is recommended after radiological evaluation to confirm the tumor's histology. Primary bone tumors can be divided into benign bone tumors, mostly represented by vertebral hemangiomas, osteoid osteomas, osteoblastomas, aneurismal bone cysts, and eosinophilic granulomas, and malign or aggressive tumors, such as Ewing's or osteogenic sarcomas. Secondary bone tumors (spinal metastases) comprise different tumor histologies, and treatment is mainly based on tumor's radiosensitivity. The characteristics and treatment options of the main spinal tumors are discussed in details. Conclusion: Spinal tumors in children are rare lesions that demand a thorough understanding of their main characteristics for their proper management. Understanding the nuances of spinal tumors in children is of paramount importance for improving outcomes and chances of cure.

Resumo Introdução: Os tumores de coluna em crianças são raros, apresentando peculiaridades únicas quando comparados com os da população adulta. Método: Dada a escassez de trabalhos que avaliem o tema, realizou-se extensa revisão de literatura objetivando descrever os tumores de coluna que acometem a população pediátrica, discutindo características e opções de manejo. Resultados: A utilização de exames radiológicos combinados (radiografias, tomografia computadorizada com reconstrução em 3D e ressonância magnética) é necessária para avaliação adequada e diagnóstico diferencial dessas lesões. Em casos selecionados, exames de medicina nuclear aumentam as chances do diagnóstico preciso. Como regra geral, biópsia por agulha é recomendada para confirmação da histologia tumoral e tratamento subsequente. As lesões primárias de coluna podem ser benignas, representadas principalmente pelos hemangiomas, osteomas osteoides, osteoblastomas, cistos ósseos aneurismáticos e granulomas eosinofílicos, enquanto as lesões malignas são geralmente representadas por tumores agressivos, como o sarcoma de Ewing ou os sarcomas osteogênicos. Metástases de coluna podem ter diferentes etiologias, sendo o tratamento dependente principalmente da radiossensibilidade do tumor de origem. As opções de tratamento dessas lesões são descritas em detalhes. Conclusão: Tumores de coluna em crianças são raros e o seu manejo requer um conhecimento amplo e variado das diferentes possibilidades diagnósticas. Conhecer os nuances envolvidos no tratamento dessas lesões e os sintomas iniciais é fundamental para melhorar o prognóstico e as chances de cura.

Quiste neuroentérico intradural: Reporte de un caso / Intradural neurenteric cysts. Case report

El quiste neuroentérico espinal es una lesión de rara presentación, sólo existen reportes de casos aislados. Representa del 0,3% al 1,3% de los tumores espinales según las distintas citas bibliográficas. Suele afectar el canal espinal, especialmente a nivel cervical bajo y torácico superior. Aproximadamente el 90% de estos quistes se localiza en el espacio intradural/ extramedular, mientras que el 10% restante se divide entre la localización intradural/intramedular o extradural. El tratamiento de los quistes neuroentéricos intraespinales es quirúrgico, mediante la resección lo más radical posible. Los resultados son favorables y las tasas de recurrencia después de la resección parcial son bajas. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Spinal neurenteric cyst is a rare lesion, only anecdotal case reports have been published. The neurenteric cyst accounts for 0.3 to 1.3% of spinal axis tumors. It affects the inferior cervical and superior thoracic spine level. Approximately 90% of neurenteric cysts are located in the intradural/extramedullary compartment while the remaining10% are divided between an intradural/intramedullary or extradural location. Surgical intervention with radical resection is the best treatment. The outcome is favorable and the recurrence rates after partial resection are low. Level of Evidence: IV

MR imaging in spinal cord/ canal tumors

Introduction: A spinal tumor is an abnormal mass of tissue within or surrounding the spinal cord and spinal column, can cause significant morbidity and can be associated with mortality as well accounts for approximately 15% of cranio-spinal tumors. Aim: The present study was designed to determine the predictive value of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in diagnosing intra spinal tumors and to correlate findings on Magnetic Resonance Imaging with Pathological diagnosis. Materials and methods: This prospective study was conducted in Osmania General Hospital from 2009 to 2012 over a period of 3 years. The study group included 40 patients. In all patients, data on history, clinical examination and clinical diagnosis was obtained. MRI was performed on a 1.5 Tesla electromagnet (GE Company). The primary pulse sequences included T1 and T2W1 using spin echo and gradient echo techniques. The MR morphology was correlated with surgical and histopathological features. Results: The patients had age groups ranging from 2 years – 60 years with a mean age of 33 years. Twenty eight were males and twelve were females. The most commonly encountered symptoms were neurological deficit in 33, sensory loss in 25, bowel and bladder dysfunction in 20 and pain in 13 patients. Of the forty intra dural tumors, 28 were extra medullary and 12 were intra medullary present. Most of the tumors were located in the cervical and the dorsolumbar spine accounting for more than 50%. The most common tumor encountered in our study was schwannoma (22/40), followed by ependymoma (7/40), meningioma (4/40), astrocytoma (4/40), one each of Dermoid, arachnoid cyst and round cell tumor. The most commonly located in cervical, Cervicodorsal position (20), followed by lumbar (8), dorsolumbar (5), dorsal (5) and cervicolumbar (1), lumbosacral (1). MRI features of forty patients with intra dural tumors were studied and their signal intensities were correlated with the pathological findings. MRI diagnosis of intra dural tumors was correct in 34 of the 40 tumors. Contrast was useful for better delineation of the tumor and its characterization. However the different types of tumors could not be differentiated by their degree of contrast enhancement. Aithagani Rama Chandraiah, D Ravi Chander, Sunita Bajaj. MR imaging in spinal cord/ canal tumors. IAIM, 2016; 3(11): 18-26. Page 19 Conclusion: Magnetic Resonance Imaging was found to be a highly sensitive imaging procedure and the method of choice for intra spinal tumors. Contrast was useful for better delineation of the tumor and its characterization.

Incidence of Primary Spinal Cord, Spinal Meninges, and Cauda Equina Tumors in Korea, 2006-2010 / Journal of the Korean Cancer Association, 대한암학회지

PURPOSE: Primary spinal cord and appendage tumors (PSCAT) originating from the spinal cord, spinal meninges, and cauda equina are uncommon. Worldwide, population-based cancer registry data are mostly based on malignant tumors only, which means few data are available on PSCATs, including non-malignant tumors. Therefore, the objective of this study was to provide information regarding the incidence of both non-malignant and malignant PSCATs in Korea on a national level. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Incidence of PSCATs was estimated from cases diagnosed between 2006 and 2010 using the National Cancer Incidence Database in Korea. Age-adjusted rates were calculated using the world standard population, and male-to-female rate ratios were calculated by histology type. RESULTS: Of all PSCATs registered (n=3,312), 86.6% were non-malignant. The overall age-adjusted incidence of PSCATs was 1.08 per 100,000 person-years, with an incidence of 0.99 per 100,000 in females and 1.15 in males. The most common site of PSCATs was the spinal cord (83.4%), followed by spinal meninges (16.1%) and cauda equina (0.5%). The most common histological type was neurilemmoma (41.3%), followed by meningiomas (20.1%) and ependymomas (7.6%). Men had significantly higher rates than women for ependymomas and lymphomas but had lower rates for meningiomas. CONCLUSION: This study provides the first population-based analysis of PSCATs in Korea.

Partial lateral corpectomy associated with pediculectomy to treat extradural chondroma in a dog: technique description / Corpectomia lateral parcial associada à pediculectomia no tratamento de condroma extradural em um cão: descrição da técnica

This study aimed to describe in detail the surgical technique of partial lateral corpectomy (PLC) associated with pediculectomy to treat an in vitro extradural chondroma. A 12-year old female Cocker Spaniel was seen in the hospital with proprioceptive ataxia of hind limbs associated with extradural compression between the 1st and 2nd lumbar vertebrae. The owner opted for euthanasia since the patient's condition changed due to simultaneous illnesses that culminated in a poor prognosis. The patient's body was formally ceded to perform experimental spinal decompression. The technique was effective to completely remove the epidural mass with minimal manipulation of the spinal cord...

Objetivou-se descrever detalhadamente a técnica cirúrgica de corpectomia lateral parcial associada à pediculectomia no tratamento de um condroma extradural in vitro. Uma cadela de 12 anos de idade, raça Cocker Spaniel, foi atendida com ataxia proprioceptiva dos membros pélvicos associada à compressão extradural entre a primeira e a segunda vértebras lombares. Devido a alterações secundárias decorrentes de afecções concomitantes que culminavam em um prognóstico desfavorável, o proprietário optou pela eutanásia do paciente, e o cadáver foi formalmente cedido para realização de descompressão medular experimental. A técnica utilizada foi eficaz na remoção completa da massa extradural, com mínima manipulação da medula espinhal...

Abordaje combinado en columna toracolumbar para los tumores / Approach combined in thoracolumbar spine for tumors

Introducción: el progreso de la imaginología, la supervivencia del paciente oncológico y el desarrollo de instrumentaciones cortas, aumentó el interés por el uso de abordajes combinados. Objetivo: exponer la experiencia del servicio de ortopedia del Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras en abordaje combinado de columna toracolumbar. Descripción: se presentaron 5 casos con procesos tumorales del segmento toracolumbar en los que se empleó abordaje combinado, operados en el servicio de ortopedia desde febrero de 2007 hasta mayo de 2011; se reflejó edad, sexo, tipo de tumor. Se evaluó el dolor (por la escala Denis) y el estado neurológico (por la escala Frankel) preoperatorio y posoperatorio, así como las complicaciones. Resultados: en los pacientes menores de 50 años predominó el sexo femenino y los tumores primarios; 4 pacientes tenían en el preoperatorio un estado Frankel C y en todos se logró pasar a E. En cuanto al dolor por la escala Denis que era entre 3 y 4, pasaron a 0 y 1. Como complicaciones se presentó una luxación del injerto con sepsis profunda, así como 2 desgarros del saco dural. Conclusiones: el abordaje combinado se presenta como opción ventajosa y recomendable de tratamiento quirúrgico en los tumores espinales

Introduction: the progress of imaging, the survival of oncology patient and the development of short instrumentations increased the interest by the use of combined approaches. Objective: to expose the experience of the Orthopedics service of Hermanos Ameijeiras Clinical Surgical Hospital in the combined approach of thoracolumbar spine. Description: authors present 5 cases presenting with tumoral processes of thoracolumbar segment using a combined approach, operated on above mentioned service from February, 2007 to May, 2011. Following variables were included: age, sex, and type of tumor. Pain was assessed (Denis) and the preoperative and postoperative neurologic status (Frankel), as well as the complications. Results: in patients aged under 50 there was predominance of female sex and of primary tumors: in preoperative period 4 patients had a C Frankel and in all of them it was possible to move to E. As regards the Denis pain between 3 and 4 moving to 0 and 1. Complications included graft luxation with a deep sepsis, as well as two dural sac tears. Conclusions: the combined approach is an advantageous and recommendable option for surgical treatment in spinal tumors

Tumores intradurales extramedulares primarios tratados en el Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación / Primary intradural extramedullary tumors treated at the National Institute of Rehabilitation (Mexico)

Introducción: Los tumores de la columna son lesiones poco comunes que afectan a una porción menor de la población, sin embargo, pueden causar morbilidad significativa y estar asociados a mortalidad. Representan 15 % de los tumores craneoespinales. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue definir la frecuencia de tumores intradurales extramedulares de columna vertebral en el Servicio de Cirugía de Columna Vertebral del Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, y su diagnóstico histopatológico definitivo. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de una serie de pacientes tratados quirúrgicamente entre 1996 y 2006 por diagnóstico de tumor intradural extramedular. Se evaluó sexo, edad, localización, sintomatología y tipo de tumor. Resultados: Se revisaron 27 pacientes, 11 hombres y 16 mujeres, con edad promedio de 47.33 años. Los síntomas principales fueron dolor y pérdida de la fuerza. La localización más frecuente fue la torácica seguida de la lumbar; el diagnóstico histopatológico indicó meningioma en 12 casos, schwannoma en 12 y neurofibroma en tres. Conclusiones: La sintomatología, localización y predominio de sexo son similares a los informados en la literatura. A diferencia de otras series, los tumores más frecuentes en la nuestra fueron schwannomas y meningiomas. Es importante el diagnóstico oportuno y tratamiento adecuado, que en nuestros pacientes consistió en resección total con laminoplastia, para evitar secuelas neurológicas permanentes.

BACKGROUND: Spine tumors are uncommon injuries affecting a low percentage of the population; however, these tumors can cause significant morbidity and may be related to mortality. They represent 15% of craniospinal tumors. The objective of this study is to determine the frequency of intradural extramedullary spine tumors treated in our Service and to report the definitive histopathological diagnosis. METHODS: This was a retrospective study in a series of patients treated surgically with a diagnosis of intradural extramedullary tumor in the Spine Service of the National Rehabilitation Institute (Mexico) from 1996 to 2006. The following variables were evaluated: gender, age, tumor localization, symptomatology and type of tumor. RESULTS: Files of 27 patients were reviewed. There were 11 men and 16 women with an average age of 47.33 years. The main symptoms were pain and motor weakness. The most frequent localization was thoracic followed by lumbar. Histopathological diagnosis reported 12 cases of meningioma, 12 cases of schwannoma and 3 cases of neurofibroma. CONCLUSIONS: Symptomatology, localization and gender predominance are similar to that reported in the literature. Different from other series, schwannomas and meningiomas were the most frequent tumors in our study. Appropriate diagnosis and opportune treatment consisting of total resection with laminoplasty are crucial in order to avoid permanent neurological consequences.

Radiosurgery for Spinal Lesions

Spinal Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) has become an important treatment modality for a broad range of spinal tumors and spinal vascular lesions. Recent clinical acceptance and awareness of the usefulness of spinal radiosurgery has escalated with the development of modern radiosurgical technology. Image-guided navigation systems incorporating non-invasive fiducial tracking and virtual simulation planning systems have made spinal radiosurgery increasingly effective and expanded the range of clinical applications for which it can be effectively used. Additional improvements such as Intensity Modulation and Micro-Multileaf Collimation that allow the accurate modulating and shaping of the radiation beam have also contributed greatly to the ability of clinicians to treat irregular and critically located lesions with greatly reduced collateral risk. Spinal Radiosurgery for spinal tumors can achieve similar clinical results to cranial stereotactic radiosurgery for brain tumors in terms of achieving local tumor control and improving quality of life and survival rates. Stereotactic radiosurgery, which has long been used for the treatment of intracranial lesions, is now recognized to be a viable option for treating spinal tumors and spinal vascular lesions.

Neurofibromatosis tipo 1 y tumores raquídeos del contenido / Type 1 neurofibromatosis and spinal tumors of the content

Objetivos: evaluar la prevalencia, pronóstico y posibilidades terapéuticas de los pacientes con Neurofibromatosis tipo 1 (NF 1) y tumores raquídeos. Método: se realizó una revisión retrospectiva de las historias clínicas y estudios disponibles de todos los pacientes con NF1 admitidos a nuestros hospitales entre los años 1993 y 2002. Se evaluó a la admisión y al seguimiento aquellos casos con tumores raquídeos estadificados con el Sistema de Weinstein-Boriani- Bacci, y las escalas Visual Analógica [VAS](para el dolor), de Frankel (status neurológico) de Hoffer y de la OMS, así como el Indice de Karnofsky para el estado funcional. Resultados: se encontraron 12 pacientes (9 varones, 3 mujeres) con NF 1 y tumores raquídeos. La edad promedio al diagnóstico fue de 25.2 años, siendo 9 benignos y 3 malignos (uno con metástasis a distancia). El seguimiento promedio fue de: 2.8 años. Se realizaron 14 procedimientos quirúrgicos de ablación asociados o no a reconstrucción en 11 pacientes. Hubo 11 complicaciones en total (92%) pero solo en 6 pacientes (50%), de los cuales 2 eran portadores de tumores malignos. El 25% con tumores benignos operados presentó una recidiva (promedio: 3.3 años de postoperatorio). Sin embargo, todas las variables funcionales (Frankel, VAS, Hoffer, OMS y Karnofsky) mejoraron. Los dos últimos ítems (OMS, Karnofsky) mostraron mejoría de la calidad de vida, incluso en los casos de óbito Conclusión: 1) La existencia de tumores raquídeos sintomáticos debe tenerse presente en pacientes portadores de NF 1. 2) La agresividad de los tumores benignos sintomáticos en estos pareció mayor a los de la población general. 3) A pesar de las dificultades, la mejoría funcional y de la calidad de vida justificaron el abordaje quirúrgico en estos pacientes.

Objetive: To assess prevalence, prognosis and therapeutic possibilities of patients with type 1 neurofibromatosis (NF-1) and spinal tumors. Method: All patients with NF-1admitted to our Hospital settlings since January 1993 to December 2002 were analized, the clinical records and image studies of those with spinal tumors as a cause of admission were retrospectively reviewed. Karnofsky scale, Functional World Health Organization (WHO) scale, Frankel grade and Visual Analogical Scale (VAS) for pain were used at hospital admission, postoperatively and at follow-up. Surgical staging was reviewed with the Weinstein Boriani Bacci system. Results: In this 10 years period we admitted 44 patients who fully satisfied NIH criteria for NF-1. Twelve of them (27.3%) presented symptomatic spinal tumors: 9 males and 3 females, in average 25.2 years old. Spinal tumors were 9 benign (all neurofibromas) and 3 malign. Mean follow up was 2.8 years. Fourteen surgical procedures were performed in 11 patients. Eleven complications occurred in 6 operated cases (50% of patients), but 2 of 3 (67%) malignant spinal tumors cases had complications. Two of 8 benign tumors operated (25%) recurred an average of 3.3 years after surgery. All cases showed improved postoperative functional score at follow-up (Frankel, VAS, WHO and Karnofsky), including those cases who finally died. Conclusion: 1) Symptomatic spinal tumors should be taken into account in the general population patients with NF-1. 2) Benign tumors in this series were more aggressive than those arising in patients without NF. 3) Postoperative improvement of the functional status and the quality of life, supports the surgical approach among patients with NF-1 and symptomatic spinal tumors, despite the technical difficulties.

Multiple Spinal Tumors with Meningiomas and Schwannomas

We report a case of suspicious neurofibromatosis associated with multiple spinal tumors with dual pathology. The patient was a 16-year-old girl who had developed progressive paraparesis for 6 months. She had cafe-au-lait spots and multiple subcutaneous nodule. Magnetic resonance(MR) imaging of the lumbar spine had shown dumbbell-shape spinal tumor at L1-2. The tumor had been removed successfully at the local hospital. But, she had got worse to paraplegia. Postoperative MR image of the whole spine had revealed multiple spinal tumors at T3-4, T6-7, C2-3, C7-T1. She underwent 3 additional operations to remove the compressive lesions. Histopathologic findings documented 3 schwannomas and 2 meningiomas. She improved dramatically and was discharged from the hospital. Subsequent MR images of the whole spine revealed numerous small spinal tumors around the spinal cord and cauda quina.

Microsurgical Treatment of Recurrent Intra-spinal Canal Tumors / 中国医师杂志

Objective To explore the microneurosurgical treatment of recurrent intra-spinal canal tumors. Methods The clinical data on the microsurgical parameters, operative procedures, operative efficacy and post-operative complications of 16 cases with recurrent intra-spinal canal tumors from June 1993 to June 2002 were reviewed retrospectively. Results Under the operative microscope, the tumors were totally removed in 10 cases, subtotally in 4 cases, and partially in 2 cases. Fllowed up from 5 months to 8 years, 11 cases recovered well, 4 cases suffered from moderate disability, and 1 case died. Preoperative CT or MRI scan, knowledge of the anatomy and structures, and skillful operative techinique all were important to microsurgical treatment of recurrent intra-spinal canal tumors. Conclusion Once diagnosis of recurrent intra-spinal canal tumors, the operative treatment is effective. Radiation therapy for the malignant tumors or incompletely removed recurrent tumors is necessary.

Radiographic spinal measurements among Filipino

The radiologic interpediculate distance as well as the cervical and lumbar sagital distances have been measured in 500 x-ray films of adult Filipinos. It has been noted that the overall measurements among Filipino female is 0.6 mm. smaller than the average Filipino male. As compared to foreign studies our measurement is smaller. Compared to other local studies there is not much difference. It is hoped that these normal radiographic measurement may become an aid in the diagnosis of spinal stenosis and spinal tumors in the future. (Summary)

A Clinical Analysis of the Primary Spinal Tumors

With the advent of magnetic resonance image (MRI), direct visualization of the spinal cord tumors and their relationship to the surrounding structures becomes possible. A clinical analysis was done retrospectively in forty patients suffering from primary spinal tumors and were treated surgically from November 1991 to November 1995. There were 19 male and 21 female patients, peak incidence occurs in the sixth decade of life. The tumor with the highest incidence was neurogenic tumor (42.5%), followed by glial tumor and meningioma. The most frequent symptom was pain. On radiological evaluation, simple plain X-ray showed abnormality in 37.5% of cases, in which the most common positive finding was pedicle erosion (20%). CT was performed in 38 cases and MRI in 31. The MRI reveals not only morphologic abnormalities but also diversities in signal intensity. These findings helped us to establish pathologic diagnosis and operative planning. Surgery was performed via anterior(5%) and posterior(95%) approaches. Total removal was possible in 70% of the cases and subtotal removal in 30%. Evaluation of the patient's symptom and neurologic deficit was done one month after operation, it was found that about 80% of the patients recovered or have their conditions improved. Complications were developed in 3 cases.