Tumor maligno de columna vertebral / Malignant tumor of the spine

RESUMEN Introducción: Los tumores de columna vertebral son neoplasias poco comunes que pueden ser de origen primario o secundario. Las de origen primario son las que se presentan con menor recurrencia clínica, y se caracterizan generalmente por manifestaciones de dolor a nivel local y en menor proporción, por afectación neurológica. Objetivo: Describir el proceso de diagnóstico de un paciente con tumor de columna lumbar, el tratamiento recibido y su evolución. Caso clínico: Paciente de 77 años de edad con cuadro clínico consistente en dolor lumbar, paresias y parestesias. Se realizaron ayudas diagnósticas como radiografía y tomografía, en las que se evidenció una extensa lesión tumoral de la columna lumbar, valorada por cirugía de columna. Se realizó laminectomía descompresiva a nivel de L4 bilateral, artrodesis de T12 a L5 y se tomó biopsia abierta del tumor de la columna. Después de la cirugía la paciente presentó mejoría de la sintomatología. El informe anatomopatológico del tumor evidenció un tumor maligno indiferenciado. Conclusiones: El diagnóstico de tumor en columna lumbar se basa en evidencia clínica, imágenes diagnósticas, biopsia e inmunohistoquímica; una vez realizado el diagnóstico, el tratamiento debe incluir una combinación de quimioterapia, radioterapia y cirugía. La tomografía axial computarizada se utiliza como ayuda quirúrgica. Durante el procedimiento quirúrgico es pertinente realizar la resección de la lesión y obtener una confirmación histológica para definir el tratamiento antineoplásico y la malignidad de dicho tumor. El tratamiento oportuno reduce el riesgo de daño neurológico y mantiene la estabilidad mecánica espinal(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Spinal tumors are rare neoplasms that can be of primary or secondary origin. Those of primary origin are those that present with less clinical recurrence, and are generally characterized by manifestations of local pain and to a lesser extent, by neurological involvement. Objective: To describe the diagnostic process of a patient with lumbar spine tumor, the treatment received and the evolution. Clinical report: We report a case of a 77-year-old patient, with a clinical situation of low back pain, paresis and paresthesias. Diagnostic aids such as radiography and tomography were performed, which showed an extensive tumor lesion of the lumbar spine, it was assessed for spinal surgery. Decompressive laminectomy was performed at the bilateral L4 level, arthrodesis from T12 to L5, and an open biopsy of the spinal tumor was taken. The patient had improvement in symptoms after surgery. The pathological report of the tumor showed an undifferentiated malignant tumor. Conclusions: The diagnosis of lumbar spine tumor is based on clinical evidence, diagnostic images, biopsy and immunohistochemistry. Once the diagnosis is made, treatment should include a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Computerized axial tomography is used as a surgical aid. During the surgical procedure, it is pertinent to resect the lesion and to obtain histological confirmation to define the antineoplastic treatment and the malignancy of said tumor. Prompt treatment reduces the risk of neurological damage and maintains spinal mechanical stability.

Finite element analysis of double-segment and single-segment vertebral column decancellation and vertebral column resection osteotomy for ankylotic kyphosis / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Single-segment and double-segment osteotomies are often used to treat ankylotic kyphosis. However, the selection of preoperative strategies, especially for segmental and osteotomy methods, often depends on clinical experience. At present; there are few reports on the biomechanics of double-segment vertebral column decancellation and vertebral column resection osteotomy. OBJECTIVE: To establish a two-segment osteotomy model for ankylotic kyphosis, and to compare and discuss the total displacement of the spine, stress analysis of the internal fixation system, and equivalent stress intensity of the osteotomy contact surface. METHODS: MIMICS software and Geomagic studio software were used to establish two kinds of models of ankylotic kyphosis with vertebral column resection osteotomy and vertebral column decancellation. Each kind of model was divided into single-segment osteotomy and double-segment osteotomy, i.e., L1 single-segment vertebral column resection osteotomy model, L1 single-segment decancellated osteotomy model, L2 single-segment vertebral column resection osteotomy model, L2 single-segment vertebral column decancellation model, T12L2 double-segment vertebral column resection osteotomy model, T12L2 double-segment vertebral column decancellation model, T12L3 double-segment vertebral column resection osteotomy model, and T12L3 double-segment vertebral column decancellation model. ANASYS software was imported to load model. The whole spine displacement, pedicle screw, connecting rod, and bone interface equivalent stress nephogram were recorded under different conditions of osteotomy. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Whether it was vertebral column decancellation or vertebral column resection osteotomy model, the total spinal displacement of single-segment osteotomy was less than that of double-segment osteotomy. The displacement of vertebral column resection osteotomy was less than that of vertebral column decancellation in both single-and double-segment osteotomy models. L2 single-segment vertebral column resection osteotomy model had minimal displacement. (2) Whether it was vertebral column decancellation or vertebral column resection osteotomy model, equivalent stress of the single-segment osteotomy was less than that of the double-segment osteotomy. The equivalent stress of the internal fixation device of the vertebral column resection osteotomy was less than that of vertebral column decancellation in both single-and double-segment osteotomy models. The equivalent stress of the internal fixation device of the L1 single-segment vertebral column resection osteotomy was smallest. (3) The equivalent stress of the osteotomy contact surface of all single-segment osteotomy models was smaller than 28 MPa. In the two-segment osteotomy model, the equivalent stress of the osteotomy contact surface of the vertebral column resection osteotomy was less than that of vertebral column decancellation. (4) These results suggest that the biomechanical stability of the single-segment osteotomy model was better than that of the double-segment osteotomy model. The stability of vertebral column resection osteotomy was better than that of vertebral column decancellation.

Biomechanical analysis of sagittal plane balance of type iiia ankylosing kyphosis reconstructed by different osteotomy segments / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Orthopedic technique of ankylosing kyphosis is more mature. The surgeons can also choose different osteotomy methods according to the patients’ bending type and bending degree. However, due to the lack of widely recognized classification system, the description of ankylosing kyphosis and the formulation of operation strategy are confused. OBJECTIVE: To establish a three-dimensional finite element model of kyphosis osteotomy in ankylosing spondylitis using computer-aided software and analyze its biomechanical characteristics. METHODS: Image data of a patient with ankylosing kyphosis of type IIIA with strong 301 classification were obtained to establish a three-dimensional finite element model of ankylosing kyphosis. The osteotomy angles of T12, L1, L2 and L3 different segments were measured. Osteotomy of cancellous bone was simulated. The model after osteotomy was fixed with nail bar system. Biomechanical characteristics were analyzed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The closer the osteotomy segment was to the tail end, the greater the screw stress was, and the order of the screw stress distribution was L3 > L2 > L1 > T12. The stress distribution characteristics of different osteotomy segments were the same. The screw stress was concentrated on the adjacent upper/lower two segments of the osteotomy segment, and was significantly greater than that of other segments. (2) The order of the titanium rod stress was L2 > L3 > L1 > T12. (3) The closer the bone segment was to the head, the greater the stress was, and the order of the stress was T12 > L1 > L2 > L3. (4) The results show that for the type IIIA ankylosing kyphosis, the better degree of orthopedic can be obtained by selecting L2 osteotomy segment, and the complications caused by the concentration of internal fixation stress distribution can be reduced.

Surgical choice of posterior osteotomy way for senile osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture with kyphosis / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the surgical choice of posterior osteotomy way by the observation of clinical outcome of Smith-Petersen osteotomy (SPO), pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) and vertebral column re-section (VCR) for senile osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture with kyphosis.@*METHODS@#From June 2015 to August 2017, an amount of 8 elderly patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis caused by osteoporotic vertebral fracture underwent osteotomy approach for posterior osteotomy. All patients were old osteoporotic vertebral fracture more than 6 months and received invalid conservative treatment for 3 months including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, anti-osteoporosis drugs and acupuncture, etc. There were 3 males and 5 females, with an average age of 73.4 years (66 to 83 years), with an average course of the disease of 34.6 months (8 to 60 months). Eight patients had a total of 8 vertebral fractures, and fracture segment was in T of 1 case, T of 1 case, T of 3 cases, L of 2 cases, L of 1 case. Eight patients showed kyphosis caused by wedge deformation of single segmental vertebral fractures. The thoracolumbar kyphosis and symptoms were progressively developing into central sagittal imbalance. SPO osteotomy was performed in 3 cases, PSO osteotomy in 3 cases, and VCR osteotomy in 2 cases. Orthopaedic effects were analyzed by imaging measurements, including pre- and post-operative kyphosis Cobb angle, localized kyphosis (LK), thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral tilt angle (ST) and sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used to evaluate the pain and lumbar function.@*RESULTS@#All the eight patients were followed up from 8 to 24 months with an average of 13.5 months and all the symptoms of low back pain have significantly reduced or disappeared. The VAS score decreased from 5-8 points (mean 6.5 points) before surgery to 1-4 points (mean 1.88 points) at the final follow-up, and the score was significantly improved. The ODI score decreased from 36-78 points (mean 60.25 points) before surgery to 10-32 points (mean 20.38 points) at the final follow-up, and the functional score improved significantly. During the follow-up period, X-ray examination showed that some patients had a slight decrease in the height of the intervertebral fusion, and the bone graft was healed. There was no obvious corrected degree loss and internal fixation loosening, and the thoracolumbar kyphosis was significantly improved. The mean Cobb angle of T-L was reduced from 25.3° to 2.8° with corrected rate of 89.3% ; LK was reduced from 43.4° to 7.1° with corrected rate of 86.2% ; TK was reduced from 49.9° to 30.6°, LL was reduced from 43.6° to 30.8°, and ST was changed from 24.0° to 32.1°, SVA was changed from 6.23 cm to 2.40 cm.@*CONCLUSION@#For the different pathological features and deformities of senile osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture combined with kyphosis, SPO, PSO or VCR can achieve good orthopedic effect and clinical efficacy.

Correction of kyphotic deformity due to neglected fracture dislocation thoracolumbar spine with posterior vertebral column resection

Kyphotic deformity is serious problem for sagittal spinal balance and resulting back pain, neurologic impairment, and also cosmetic problem. Post traumatic kyphotic deformity most common occur following unstable spine. A circumferential approach with anterior release via discectomies and corpectomies, followed by posterior instrumentation and fusion has been the standard of care. This is a case of progressive post traumatic kyphotic deformity due to fracture dislocation which was performed laminectomy without posterior instrumentation and succesfully corrected with single step posterior vertebral column resection.

Modified posterior unilateral subtotal corpectomy osteotomy correction for old thoracolumbar vertebral fractures combined with kyphosis / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of modified posterior unilateral subtotal corpectomy osteotomy correction for old thoracolumbar vertebral fractures combined with kyphosis. Methods A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze 18 patients with old thoracolumbar vertebral fractures combined with kyphosis admitted to the Henan Provincial People's Hospital from January 2012 to October 2016. There were 10 males and eight females, aged 25-70 years, with an average age of 38. 2 years. The injured segments and osteotomy segments included T11 in one patient, T12 in four, L1 in six, and L2 in seven. Five patients had neurological impairment symptoms classified as grade D according to Frankel's classification. All patients underwent the modified posterior unilateral subtotal corpectomy osteotomy correction. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss were recorded. The visual analogue score (VAS), Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI) and kyphosis Cobb angle were compared before operation, half a year after operation and at the last follow-up. The osteotomy fusion was evaluated by Suk criterion and Frankel grading was used to evaluate the recovery of nerve function. The complications were also recorded. Results All patients were followed up for 12-24 months, with an average of 17. 6 months. The operation time was 160-285 minutes [(190. 0 ± 42. 6) minutes, and the intraoperative blood loss was 500-800 ml [(610. 0 ± 134. 3) ml]. The difference of kyphosis Cobb angle between preoperative [(40.5±9.8)°] and [(5.5 ±1.6)°] at 6 months postoperatively had statistical significance (P <0. 05). Compared with the kyphosis Cobb angle of 6 months postoperatively [(5. 5 ± 1. 6)°], the Cobb angle at the final follow-up [(6. 2 ± 1. 5)°] did not change significantly (P>0. 05). The VAS score and ODI at 6 months after operation and at the final follow-up [(3. 1 ± 1. 3)points,(2. 7 ± 0. 7)points and 7. 5 ± 5. 1, 6. 4 ± 2. 5] were significantly different compared with those before operation [(7. 6 ± 2. 4)points, 68. 7 ± 10. 4] (P<0. 05). Bone cutting surface was healed osseously in all patients. The five patients with preoperative neurological impairment of grade D were assigned with grade E at the last follow up. There were two patients with dural rupture and one with pleural effusion during the operation. No complications such as nerve damage, infection or thrombosis occurred. No loosening, fracture or heterotopic ossification occurred during follow-up. Conclusion For old thoracolumbar vertebral fracture combined with kyphosis, the modified posterior unilateral vertebral column resection through unilateral approach can not only achieve the bone fusion between the injured vertebra and the adjacent vertebral body, but also avoid the shortening of the spine, correcting kyphosis and relieving pain, with low incidence of complications.

Apical Vertebral Column Resection with Sagittal Rotation and Controlled Anterior Opening and Posterior Closing Maneuver for the Treatment of Severe Post-Tubercular Kyphosis: Case Series and Literature Review

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. PURPOSE: Describe the technique and evaluate the outcome of apical vertebral column resection (VCR) with sagittal rotation and anterior opening and posterior closing (AOPC) maneuver for correction of severe post-tubercular kyphosis (PTK). OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: The surgical procedures described for the correction of PTK are VCR, pedicle subtraction osteotomy, transpedicular decancellation osteotomy, and closing-opening osteotomy. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 21 patients who had been operated on with single stage apical VCR with AOPC maneuver. Radiographs were obtained before surgery and at regular follow-up intervals. These were used to calculate the angle of kyphosis. Back pain was rated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and neurological status was graded using Frankel grading. Radiological outcome was assessed by the improvement in the angle of kyphosis and fusion following surgery. Neurological status was assessed using Frankel grading. RESULTS: The study included eight males and 13 females with a mean age of 21.9 and average follow-up time of 30.4 months. The average number of vertebral bodies destroyed was 2.57. Kyphosis was improved from a mean of 68.42°±13.23° preoperative to 8.71°±4.58° postoperative. The average correction achieved was 87.10%. Preoperative VAS score improved from a mean of 6.38±0.92 preoperative to 1.38±0.49 postoperative. No patients had any sign of neurological deterioration. Seven out of eight patients with a preoperative neurological deficit improved following surgery. Two patients developed superficial wound maceration, one had persistent postoperative hypotension, and the other developed hemothorax. All patients recovered fully without a need for additional surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Single stage simultaneous anterior column lengthening and posterior column shortening is an effective method for surgical correction of severe PTK.

Total Deformity Angular Ratio as a Risk Factor for Complications after Posterior Vertebral Column Resection Surgery

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to identify whether the deformity angular ratio (DAR) influences the occurrence of complications after posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) and to establish the DAR cut-off value.METHODS: Thirty-six consecutive patients undergoing PVCR from December 2010 to October 2016 were reviewed. The relationships between the total, sagittal, and coronal DAR and complications were assessed using receiver operator characteristics curves. The patients were divided into two groups according to a reference value based on the cut-off value of DAR. Demographic, surgical, radiological, and clinical outcomes were compared between the groups.RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the patient demographic and surgical data between the groups. The cut-off values for the total DAR (T-DAR) and the sagittal DAR (S-DAR) were 20.2 and 16.4, respectively (p=0.018 and 0.010). Both values were significantly associated with complications (p=0.016 and 0.005). In the higher T-DAR group, total complications (12 vs. 21, p=0.042) and late-onset complications (3 vs. 9, p=0.036) were significantly correlated with the T-DAR. The number of patients experiencing complications (9 vs. 11, p=0.029) and the total number of complications (13 vs. 20, p=0.015) were significantly correlated with the S-DAR. Worsening intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring was more frequent in the higher T-DAR group (2 vs. 4) than in the higher S-DAR group (3 vs. 3). There was no difference in neurological deterioration between the groups after surgery.CONCLUSION: Both the T-DAR and the S-DAR are risk factors for complications after PVCR. Those who had a T-DAR >20.2 or S-DAR >16.4 experienced a higher rate of complications after PVCR.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Severe Spinal Deformities

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate clinical and radiological outcomes of patients who underwent posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) by a single neurosurgeon in a single institution.METHODS: Thirty-four consecutive patients with severe spinal deformities who underwent PVCR between 2010 and 2016 were enrolled. The radiographic measurements included a kyphotic angle of PVCR levels (VCR angle), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL), and spinopelvic parameters. The data of surgical time, estimated blood loss, duration of hospital stay, complications, intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring, and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 questionnaire were collected using a retrospective review of medical records.RESULTS: The VCR angle, LL, and SVA values were significantly corrected after surgery. The VCR and LL angle were changed from the average of 38.4±32.1° and −22.1±39.1° to −1.7±29.4° (p < 0.001) and −46.3±23.8° (p=0.001), respectively. The SVA was significantly reduced from 103.6±88.5 mm to 22.0±46.3 mm (p=0.001). The clinical results using SRS-22 survey improved from 2.6±0.9 to 3.4±0.8 (p=0.033). There were no death and permanent neurological deficits after PVCR. However, complications occurred in 19 (55.9%) patients. Those patients experienced a total of 31 complications during- and after surgery. Sixteen reoperations were performed in twelve (35.3%) patients. The incidence of transient neurological deterioration was 5.9% (two out of 34 patients).CONCLUSION: Severe spinal deformities can be effectively corrected by PVCR. However, the PVCR technique should be utilized limitedly because surgery-related serious complications are relatively common.

Total Deformity Angular Ratio as a Risk Factor for Complications after Posterior Vertebral Column Resection Surgery

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to identify whether the deformity angular ratio (DAR) influences the occurrence of complications after posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) and to establish the DAR cut-off value. METHODS: Thirty-six consecutive patients undergoing PVCR from December 2010 to October 2016 were reviewed. The relationships between the total, sagittal, and coronal DAR and complications were assessed using receiver operator characteristics curves. The patients were divided into two groups according to a reference value based on the cut-off value of DAR. Demographic, surgical, radiological, and clinical outcomes were compared between the groups. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the patient demographic and surgical data between the groups. The cut-off values for the total DAR (T-DAR) and the sagittal DAR (S-DAR) were 20.2 and 16.4, respectively (p=0.018 and 0.010). Both values were significantly associated with complications (p=0.016 and 0.005). In the higher T-DAR group, total complications (12 vs. 21, p=0.042) and late-onset complications (3 vs. 9, p=0.036) were significantly correlated with the T-DAR. The number of patients experiencing complications (9 vs. 11, p=0.029) and the total number of complications (13 vs. 20, p=0.015) were significantly correlated with the S-DAR. Worsening intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring was more frequent in the higher T-DAR group (2 vs. 4) than in the higher S-DAR group (3 vs. 3). There was no difference in neurological deterioration between the groups after surgery. CONCLUSION: Both the T-DAR and the S-DAR are risk factors for complications after PVCR. Those who had a T-DAR >20.2 or S-DAR >16.4 experienced a higher rate of complications after PVCR.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Severe Spinal Deformities

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate clinical and radiological outcomes of patients who underwent posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) by a single neurosurgeon in a single institution. METHODS: Thirty-four consecutive patients with severe spinal deformities who underwent PVCR between 2010 and 2016 were enrolled. The radiographic measurements included a kyphotic angle of PVCR levels (VCR angle), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL), and spinopelvic parameters. The data of surgical time, estimated blood loss, duration of hospital stay, complications, intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring, and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 questionnaire were collected using a retrospective review of medical records. RESULTS: The VCR angle, LL, and SVA values were significantly corrected after surgery. The VCR and LL angle were changed from the average of 38.4±32.1° and −22.1±39.1° to −1.7±29.4° (p < 0.001) and −46.3±23.8° (p=0.001), respectively. The SVA was significantly reduced from 103.6±88.5 mm to 22.0±46.3 mm (p=0.001). The clinical results using SRS-22 survey improved from 2.6±0.9 to 3.4±0.8 (p=0.033). There were no death and permanent neurological deficits after PVCR. However, complications occurred in 19 (55.9%) patients. Those patients experienced a total of 31 complications during- and after surgery. Sixteen reoperations were performed in twelve (35.3%) patients. The incidence of transient neurological deterioration was 5.9% (two out of 34 patients). CONCLUSION: Severe spinal deformities can be effectively corrected by PVCR. However, the PVCR technique should be utilized limitedly because surgery-related serious complications are relatively common.

Estudo clínico e epidemiológico em cães com fraturas e luxações vertebrais toracolombares / Clinical and epidemiological study in dogs with thoracolumbar vertebrae fractures and luxations

Fraturas e luxações vertebrais (FLV) estão dentre as principais afecções que acometem a coluna vertebral em cães, com elevado risco de danos permanentes às estruturas neurais. Objetivou-se estudar as características e implicações associadas às FLV toracolombares em 37 cães, visando auxiliar uma melhor abordagem clínica em pacientes com esta afecção. As FLV foram mais comuns em machos não castrados com acesso a rua. Dentre a etiologia, 32 cães foram acometidos por acidente automobilístico. 14 cães apresentaram lesões não neurológicas em outros sistemas orgânicos. A presença de fraturas instáveis foi a alteração radiográfica mais comum. Em 16,2% dos animais, observaram-se lesões vertebrais fora do foco principal. O tempo até o atendimento neurológico inicial variou de um a 720 dias, no qual a maioria foi encaminhada sem imobilização externa. Houve diferença estatisticamente significante quanto à recuperação neurológica ao se comparar os graus de deslocamento de 0 a 25% e de 76 a 100%.(AU)

Vertebral fractures and luxations (VFL) are one of the most common and severe neurological issues found in clinical practice, with an elevated risk of permanent damage to the spinal cord. Our objective was to study the characteristics and implications associated with thoracolumbar VFL in 37 dogs, aiming assist a better clinical approach to patients with this disease. The VFL were more common in intact males with access to the street. Regarding etiology, 32 dogs were involved in car accidents. Of the dogs included in this research, 14 had non-neurological issues in other systems. The presence of unstable fractures was the most common radiographic change. In 16.2% of the dogs, vertebral lesions were observed outside the main site. Mean time until initial neurologic exam varied between one and 720 days, and most dogs were referred without external coaptation. There was a significant difference in recovery of the dogs when comparing a degree of dislocation of 0 to 25% and 76 to 100%.(AU)

Severe Rigid Scoliosis: Review of Management Strategies and Role of Spinal Osteotomies

Severe rigid curves pose a considerable challenge to the treating spine surgeon. In our practice, approximately 30%–40% of patients with scoliosis present late with severe rigid scoliosis (>90° and <30% correction on bending films). Controversy still exists with regard to the ideal surgical strategy for correcting these rigid curves. Rigid scoliosis often presents in the form of either sharp angular or rounded deformities. Rounded deformities can be effectively managed with an anterior release to loosen the apex and posterior instrumentation (with osteotomies, if required). In contrast, severe rigid scoliosis, which is a sharp angular deformity, is not very amenable to anterior release and is best managed by posterior-only vertebral column resection and posterior instrumentation.

Management of Tuberculous Infection of the Spine

Spinal tuberculosis accounts for nearly half of all cases of musculoskeletal tuberculosis. It is primarily a medical disease and treatment consists of a multidrug regimen for 9-12 months. Surgery is reserved for select cases of progressive deformity or where neurological deficit is not improved by anti-tubercular treatment. Technology refinements and improved surgical expertise have improved the operative treatment of spinal tuberculosis. The infected spine can be approached anteriorly or posteriorly, in a minimally invasive way. We review the various surgical techniques used in the management of spinal tuberculosis with focus on their indications and contraindications.

A Review of Complications and Outcomes following Vertebral Column Resection in Adults

The correction of rigid spinal deformities in adult patients can require a three-column osteotomy (pedicle subtraction osteotomy [PSO] or vertebral column resection [VCR]) to obtain spinal balance. Unfortunately, the existing adult deformity literature frequently reports the outcomes and complications of these procedures together even though VCR is a more extensive procedure with potentially higher rates of complications. We sought to address this shortcoming and provide clinicians with an overview of the existing literature regarding VCR in adult patients. The goals of this review are: to determine the rate of overall and neurologic complications following VCR, the rate of complications with VCR compared to PSO, and the impact of VCR on clinical and radiographic outcomes. An electronic literature search was used to identify studies reporting outcomes or complications following VCR in adult patients. Raw data on patient demographics, case information, radiographic outcomes, complications and clinical outcomes were extracted. Data were pooled to report a rate of overall complications and neurologic complications. A pooled relative risk of complications following PSO vs. VCR was also calculated. Eleven retrospective studies (Level IV) met our inclusion criteria. The overall rate of complications was 69.2%. The reoperation rate was 9.6%. The rate of neurologic complications was 13.3% (range, 6.3% to 15.8%) with most cases being transient. The rate of permanent neurologic deficits was 2.0%. We found a significantly higher rate of all complications with VCR compared to PSO (relative risk, 1.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.24-1.49; p<0.001). All studies reporting clinical outcomes showed significant improvements in functional outcome postoperatively.

Observações clinicocirúrgicas em fraturas e luxações vertebrais toracolombares em cães / Clinical and surgical observations in thoracolumbar spinal fractures and luxations in dogs

Objetivou-se avaliar as implicações e os resultados obtidos frente aos tratamentos conservativo e cirúrgico em 37 cães sem distinção de sexo, raça ou idade, que apresentaram fraturas e luxações vertebrais (FLV) toracolombares. Cada paciente passou por anamnese, seguida por exames clínico, neurológico e radiográficos para se obter o diagnóstico neuroanatômico e a severidade da lesão. Os cães foram submetidos ao tratamento conservativo ou cirúrgico de acordo com as características de cada caso. Dos 37 animais deste estudo, 37,7% tinham percepção de dor profunda (PDP) intacta. Vinte animais foram submetidos ao tratamento conservativo, 14 ao tratamento cirúrgico e três animais faleceram antes do tratamento. Dos animais que mantiveram a PDP intacta, a taxa de recuperação foi de 100%, com tempo de recuperação total variando de sete a 75 dias, ao passo que, dos animais que perderam a PDP, nenhum recuperou a deambulação voluntária. Dos 14 animais operados, 42,8% apresentaram alterações vertebrais não visibilizadas ao exame radiográfico convencional, sendo necessária mudança na técnica cirúrgica planejada em 14,2% desses casos. Nos animais que mantiveram a PDP, não houve diferença significante nas taxas nem no tempo de recuperação da deambulação voluntária, independentemente do tipo de tratamento. Entretanto, houve diferença altamente significante entre os graus que mantiveram a PDP intacta com os animais que perderam a percepção de dor profunda em relação à taxa de recuperação. A taxa de eutanásia foi menor que em outros trabalhos descritos na literatura. Dos animais sem PDP submetidos ao tratamento conservativo ou cirúrgico, 31,25% readquiriram a capacidade de caminhar sem recuperar a PDP, sendo essa deambulação involuntária atribuída ao caminhar espinal.

Our aim of this paper was to study the implications and results associated with conservative and surgical treatment of dogs with thoracolumbar Vertebral fractures and luxations (VFL) so that the information obtained can be used to obtain guidelines that lead to greater recovery rates. For such, 37 dogs presenting VFL were examined, without distinction of sex, breed, or age. Each patient had detailed history obtained, followed by clinical, neurologic and radiographic exams for obtaining neuroanatomic location and severity of the nervous and vertebral lesions. The dogs were submitted to conservative or surgical treatment according to each case. Deep pain perception (DPP) was intact in 37.7% of the 37 dogs in this study. Twenty dogs received conservative treatment, 14 underwent surgery and three dogs died before treatment. Of the dogs with intact DPP, 100% recovered, with a recovery time varying between seven and 75 days, while none of the dogs that lost DPP recovered voluntary motion. Of the 14 dogs submitted to surgery, 42.8% had vertebral lesions that weren't detected using conventional radiography, which demonstrates the low sensitivity of this exam, and led to a need for a change in the planned surgical technique in 14.2% of these cases. In dogs with intact DPP there was no significant difference in time or rate of recovery of voluntary motion, regardless of the treatment method. However, there was a highly significant difference between the dogs which retained and lost DPP regarding recovery rates. The percentage of euthanasia was less than in other reports, probably due to the greater awareness and protectiveness of owners nowadays. Of the dogs without DPP treated either surgically or conservatively, 31.25% recovered ambulation without recovery of DPP, characterizing this ambulation as involuntary, attributed to spinal walk.

Desarrollo osteológico de la columna vertebral y del complejo caudal de larvas de Lutjanus guttatus (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) en condiciones de cultivo / Osteological development of the vertebral column and caudal complex of Lutjanus guttatus (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) larvae under rearing conditions

The spotted rose snapper (Lutjanus guttatus) is an important commercial species in Mexico with good culture potential. The osteological study at early stages in this species is an important tool to confirm normal bone structure and for the detection of malformations that may occur during early development. This study was carried out in order to evaluate and describe the normal osteological development of the vertebral column and caudal complex of this species grown under controlled conditions. For this, a total of 540 larvae of L. guttatus, between 2.1 and 17.5mm of total length (TL), were cultured during 36 days; culture conditions were 28ºC, 5.74mg/L oxygen and 32.2ups salinity with standard feeding rates. To detect growth changes, a sample of 15 organisms was daily taken from day one until day 36 of post-hatch (DPH). Samples were processed following standard techniques of clearing, and cartilage (alcian blue) and bone staining (alizarin red). Results showed that the vertebral column is composed of ten vertebrae in the abdominal region, and 14 vertebrae including the urostyle in the caudal region. The development of the axial skeleton starts with the neural arches and haemal arches at 3.8mm TL. Caudal elements such as the hypurals and parahypural began to develop at 4.1mm TL. Pre-flexion and flexion of the notochord and the formation of all hypurals were observed between 5.3 and 5.8mm TL. Ossification of the vertebrae in the abdominal region and in some neural arches initiated at 9.5mm TL. In the caudal region, all the neural and haemal arches ossified at 10.2mm TL. All the abdominal vertebrae and their respective neural arches and parapophyses ossified at 11.2mm TL, while the elements of the caudal complex that ossified were the hypurals, parahypurals and modified haemal spines. All caudal fin rays, 12 neural spines and 3 haemal arches were ossified by 15.5mm. The complete ossification process of this specie under laboratory culture conditions was observed when larvae reached 17.3mm TL on 36 DPH. Detailed analysis of the osteological structures will allow a reference description to evaluate and detect malformations that may occur during the larval culture of the spotted rose snapper.

El pargo flamenco (Lutjanus guttatus) es una especie de importancia comercial en México con un gran potencial para su cultivo. El estudio osteológico en estadios tempranos de esta especie bajo condiciones controladas, es una herramienta importante para el conocimiento de su estructura ósea normal y poder detectar las malformaciones que se puedan presentar. El objetivo del presente trabajo se realizó para conocer y describir el desarrollo osteológico normal de la columna vertebral y el complejo caudal de 540 larvas de 2.1 a 17.5mm de longitud total (LT) bajo condiciones de cultivo a 28°C, 5.74mg/L de oxígeno y 32.2UPS de salinidad. Diariamente se tomó una muestra de 15 organismos desde el día uno hasta el 36 después de la eclosión (DDE) y se procesaron con las técnicas de clareado y tinción de cartílago (azul aciano) y hueso (rojo alizarina) para llevar a cabo la descripción de las estructuras. La columna vertebral se divide en región abdominal con diez vértebras y región caudal compuesta por 14 vértebras incluido el urostilo. El desarrollo del esqueleto axial inicia con la formación de los arcos neurales y hemales a los 3.8mm de LT. A los 4.1mm de LT empieza la formación de los hipurales y parahipural que son elementos caudales. Entre los 5.3 y 5.8mm de LT se observó en pre-flexión y flexión del notocordio y la formación de todos los hipurales. La osificación de las vértebras en la región abdominal y en algunos arcos neurales inició a los 9.5mm de LT. A los 10.2mm de LT se osificó la región caudal y todos los arcos neurales y hemales. A los 11.2mm LT se osificaron todas las vértebras abdominales con sus respectivos arcos neurales y los parapófisis, mientras que los elementos del esqueleto caudal que se osificaron fueron los hipurales, parahipurales y las espinas hemales modificadas. A los 15.5mm de LT se osificaron los radios de la aleta caudal y 12 espinas neurales y 3 hemales. El proceso de osificación de las larvas de esta especie en condiciones de cultivo se completó a los 17.3mm LT o 36 DDE. El análisis detallado de las estructuras osteológicas, permitirá una descripción de referencia para evaluar y detectar las malformaciones que se puedan presentar durante el cultivo larvario.

Comparative Analysis of Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy and outcome of vertebroplasty compared with unipedicular and bipedicular kyphoplasty for the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures in terms of pain, functional capacity and height restoration rates. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: The vertebroplasty procedure was first performed in 1984 for the treatment of a hemangioma at the C2 vertebra. Kyphoplasty was first performed in 1998 and includes vertebral height restoration in addition to using inflation balloons and high-viscosity cement. Both are efficacious, safe and long-lasting procedures. However, controversy still exists about pain relief, improvement in functional capacity, quality of life and height restoration the superiority of these procedures and assessment of appropriate and specific indications of one over the other remains undefined. METHODS: Between 2004 and 2011, 296 patients suffering from osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture underwent 433 vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty procedures. Visual analogue scale (VAS), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and height restoration rates were used to evaluate the results. RESULTS: Mean height restoration rate was 24.16%+/-1.27% in the vertebroplasty group, 24.25%+/-1.28% in the unipedicular kyphoplasty group and 37.05%+/-1.21% in the bipedicular kyphoplasty group. VAS and ODI scores improved all of the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are both effective in providing pain relief and improvement in functional capacity and quality of life after the procedure, but the bipedicular kyphoplasty procedure has a further advantage in terms of height restoration when compared to unipedicular kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty procedures.

Congenital malformation of fifth lumbar vertebra: A case report.

Fifth lumbar vertebra is an atypical vertebra as it has widely separated inferior articular processes and thick transverse processes projecting out from the body and pedicles of the vertebra. On routine examination of osteology specimens we found a fifth lumbar vertebra in two separate parts. One part consisted of body, pedicles, transverse and superior articular processes. The other part consisted of lamina, spinous and inferior articular processes. Knowledge of this variation may be of importance to the clinicians for diagnosis of certain neurological deficits in the lower limb and to orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons during the surgical intervention of that area.

Vertebral column resection via posterior approach for kyphotic deformity in children: A retrospective study of 10 cases / 解放军医学杂志

Objective To summarize the experience, technique and curative effect of vertebral column resection via posterior approach for kyphotic deformity in children. Methods The clinical data of 10 children (3 males and 7 females; aged 6-15 years with average of 11 years) who suffered from kyphotic deformity and undergone one-stage posterior vertebral column resection and reconstruction from Jul. 2010 to Aug. 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. The pre-operative Cobb angle of kyphosis was 76°-112° with an mean of 97.8°. Nervous system symptoms were found in 2 children, of them one was of Frankel C class and another one was of Frankel D. All the children underwent one-stage posterior vertebral column resection, pedicle fixation combined with bone graft. Results The operation was successfully in all the patients. The average surgery time was 373min (240-560min), the intraoperative blood loss was 1115ml (550-2200ml), the average post-operative Cobb angle of kyphosis was 29.3°(10°-43°), and the correction rate was 70.0%. The torso and shoulder imbalance in all the 10 children was significantly improved, and dorsolumbar pain was markedly relieved. The Frankel classification of 2 children having preoperative nervous system symptoms were both ameliorated to class E after operation. Conclusions Posterior vertebral column resection with pedicle screw-rod fixation is an effective and safe surgical method for the treatment of kyphotic deformity in children. Satisfactory stability of short segment fixation and bone graft fusion can be accomplished.