Paraspinous Sagittal Shift (PSSS): a novel approach for transmuscular quadratus lumborum block for hip surgery analgesia - four cases report / Paraespinhoso Sagital (PES): nova técnica no bloqueio transmuscular do quadrado lombar para analgesia em cirurgia de quadril - relato de quatro casos

Abstract Background: Effective pain management is essential for successful rehabilitation and enhanced recovery after joint arthroplasty. The Quadratus Lumborum Block (QLB) has mostly been described for abdominal surgery, but has also recently been applied to hip surgery patients. Methods: In the following cases series, we suggest a modification of the TQL block described as Paraspinous Sagittal Shift QL block. We hypothesize that this approach may allow better LA spread to the lumbar nerve roots. Such technique involves a craniocaudal approach of LA injection between the QL and PM muscles behind the Anterior Thoracolumbar Fascia (ATLF) at the level of L4. Cases were provided with combined GA and PSSS modification of QL block via a single shot or catheter technique. Results: Sensory distribution of the block in the four patients studied was found to cover the area between the T11-12 and L4-5 dermatomes. Spread of the injectate was confirmed via an A-P fluoroscopy imaging of the lumbosacral spine after injection of a mixture of LA and a contrast in the plane between the QL and PM muscles in two cases. Conclusions: The PSSS technique for TQL block may be beneficial as a part of multimodal analgesia for hip surgeries. This technique may be a safe alternative to psoas compartment block; however, future comparative studies are recommended. The PSSS technique for TQL block also may provide an easy access for catheter insertion.

Resumo Justificativa: O controle efetivo da dor é essencial para a reabilitação bem-sucedida e melhor recuperação após artroplastia. O bloqueio do quadrado lombar tem sido descrito principalmente para cirurgia abdominal, mas recentemente também tem sido usado para pacientes submetidos a cirurgia de quadril. Método: Na série de casos a seguir, sugerimos modificação na técnica do bloqueio transmuscular do quadrado lombar descrita como bloqueio do Quadrado Lombar Paraespinhoso Sagital (PES). Nossa hipótese é de que a técnica permitiria melhor dispersão do anestésico local para as raízes dos nervos lombares. Tal técnica envolve acesso craniocaudal para injeção do anestésico local entre os músculos quadrado lombar e psoas maior atrás da Fáscia Toracolombar Anterior (FTLA) no nível de L4. Os casos foram submetidos a anestesia geral combinada a técnica modificada PES para bloqueio do quadrado lombar via injeção única ou cateter. Resultados: Verificou-se que a distribuição sensorial do bloqueio nos quatro pacientes estudados cobriu a área entre os dermátomos T11-12 e L4-5. A dispersão do anestésico injetado foi confirmada via fluoroscopia A-P da coluna lombo-sacral após injeção, em dois casos, de solução de anestésico local e contraste no plano entre os músculos quadrado lombar e psoas maior. Conclusões: A técnica PES para bloqueio transmuscular do quadrado lombar pode ser benéfica como componente da analgesia multimodal para cirurgias de quadril. A técnica pode ser alternativa segura para bloqueio do compartimento psoas; entretanto, estudos comparativos futuros são recomendados. A técnica PES para bloqueio transmuscular do quadrado lombar pode também fornecer acesso fácil para inserção do cateter.

Comparison between erector spinal plane block and epidural block techniques for postoperative analgesia in open cholecystectomies: a randomized clinical trial / Comparação entre as técnicas de bloqueio do plano do músculo eretor da espinha e bloqueio epidural para analgesia pós-operatória em colecistectomias abertas: um ensaio clínico randomizado

Abstract Introduction and objectives: Blockade of the Erector Spinal Muscle (ESP Block) is a relatively new block, initially described for chronic thoracic pain analgesia, but it has already been described for anesthesia and analgesia in thoracic surgical procedures and, more recently, for high abdominal surgeries. The aim of the study was to compare two techniques, ESP Block and Epidural Block, with morphine and local anesthetic for postoperative analgesia of open cholecystectomy surgeries. Methods: Controlled single-blind randomized clinical trial with 31 patients (ESP Block, n = 15; Epidural, n = 16), of both genders, ages between 27 and 77 years. The ESP block was performed at the T8 level with injection of 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine bilaterally. The epidural block was performed at the T8-T9 space with 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine and 1 mg of morphine. Results: The ESP Block group presented higher mean ​​Numeric Pain Scale (NPS) values for pain in the up to 2 hour (p = 0.001) and in the 24 hour (p = 0.001) assessments. The ESP Block group had a three-fold increased risk (43.7% vs. 13.3%) of rescue opioid use in the 24 postoperative hours when compared to the epidural group (RR = 3.72, 95% CI: 0.91 to 15.31, p = 0.046). Conclusion: ESP Block did not prove to be an effective technique for postoperative analgesia of open cholecystectomy, at the doses performed in this study, having required more use of rescue opioid, and without differences in NPS. More comprehensive studies are required to assess the efficacy of ESP block for the visceral and abdominal somatic component, considering the specific blockade level.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivo: O Bloqueio do Plano do Músculo Eretor da Espinha (ESP block) é um bloqueio relativamente novo, inicialmente descrito para analgesia de dor torácica crônica, porém já descrito para anestesia e analgesia em procedimentos cirúrgicos torácicos e, mais recentemente, para cirurgias abdominais altas. O estudo objetivou comparar as técnicas de bloqueio ESP e bloqueio Epidural com morfina e anestésico local para analgesia pós-operatória de cirurgias de colecistectomia aberta. Método: Estudo clínico randomizado controlado, unicego com 31 pacientes (ESP block, n = 15; Epidural, n = 16), de ambos os sexos, idades entre 27 e 77 anos. O ESP block foi realizado no nível de T8 com injeção de 20 mL de ropivacaína 0,5% bilateral. O bloqueio Epidural foi realizado no espaço T8-T9 com 20 mL de ropivacaína 0,5% e 1 mg de morfina. Resultados: O grupo ESP block apresentou valores médios de dor pela Escala Visual Numérica (EVN) maiores nas avaliações até 2 horas (p= 0,001) e em 24 horas (p= 0,001). O grupo ESP block apresentou um risco três vezes maior - 43,7%vs.13,3% - de uso de opioide de resgate em 24 horas pós-operatórias do que o grupo epidural (RR = 3,72; 95% IC 0,91 a 15,31; p= 0,046). Conclusão: Nas doses realizadas nesse estudo, o ESP block não se mostrou uma técnica efetiva para analgesia pós-operatória de colecistectomia aberta, com mais uso de opioide de resgate e sem diferenças na escala visual numérica de dor. Necessita-se de estudos mais abrangentes avaliando a eficácia do ESP block para o componente visceral e somático abdominal, considerando o nível do bloqueio específico.

Efficacy of Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

BACKGROUND: Biportal endoscopic spine surgery (BESS) is a recent addition to minimally invasive spine surgery treatments. It boasts excellent magnification and fine discrimination of neural structures. Selective decompression with preservation of facet joints for structural stability is also feasible owing to access to the spinal canal and foramen deeper inside. This study has a purpose to investigate clinical benefits of BESS for spinal stenosis in comparison to the other common surgical treatments such as microscopic decompression-only (DO) and fusion and instrumentation (FI). METHODS: From December 2013 to March 2015, 30 cases of DO, 48 cases of FI, and 66 consecutive cases of BESS for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) were enrolled to evaluate the relative clinical efficacy of BESS. Visual analog scale (VAS) for back pain and leg pain, postoperative hemoglobin, C-reactive protein (CRP) changes, transfusion, and postoperative complications were examined. RESULTS: All the patients were followed up until 6 months, and 98 patients (86.7%) for 2 years. At the 6-month follow-up, VAS for back pain improved from 6.8 to 2.8, 6.8 to 3.2, and 6.8 to 2.8 (p = 0.078) for BESS, DO, and FI, respectively; VAS for leg pain improved from 6.3 to 2.2, 7.0 to 2.5, and 7.2 to 2.5 (p = 0.291), respectively. Two cases in the BESS group underwent additional foraminal decompression, but no fusion surgery was performed. Postoperative hemoglobin changes for BESS, DO, and FI were −2.5, −2.4, and −1.3 mL, respectively. The BESS group had no transfusion cases, whereas 10 cases (33.3%) in DO and 41 cases (85.4%) in FI had transfusion (p = 0.000). CRP changes for BESS, DO, and FI were 0.32, 6.53, and 6.00, respectively, at day 2 postoperatively (p = 0.000); the complication rate for each group was 8.6% (two dural tears and one root injury), 6.7% (two dural tears), and 8.3% (two dural tears and two wound infections), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: BESS for LSS showed clinical results not inferior to those of the other open surgery methods in the short-term. Stable hemodynamic changes with no need for blood transfusion and minimal changes in CRP were thought to cause less injury to the back muscles with minimal bleeding. Foraminal stenosis decompression should be simultaneously conducted with central decompression to avoid an additional surgery.

Effects of Stair Climbing on Blood Pressure, Lipid Profiles, and Physical Fitness / 대한스포츠의학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study is to identify the effects of worker's stair-climbing on blood pressure, lipid profiles, and physical fitness. METHODS: After recruiting 114 healthy adult women aged 20 to 64 years who have had sedentary for more than 3 months, we divided into two groups: the stair group (SG, n=57) and control group (CG, n=57). SG was supposed to do stair-climbing in daily life like workplace and home for 12 weeks. To investigate the effects of the lifestyle changing of stair-climbing, resting blood pressure, heart rate (HR), and lipid profiles were measured before and after 12-week stair-climbing. Also, physical fitness items such as peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), back muscle strength, sit and reach, isokinetic strength of knee joint, static and dynamic balance were measured. RESULTS: As a result of the 12-week lifestyle changing of stair-climbing, resting systolic blood pressure (SBP; p < 0.05) and HR (p < 0.01) were significantly decreased in SG. Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) was significantly reduced in SG (p < 0.05). There was a significant improvement in the VO2peak (p < 0.001). There were a significant improvement in back strength (p < 0.001) and bilateral knee extensor (60°/sec: p < 0.05, p < 0.01, 180°/sec: p < 0.01, p < 0.01) and knee flexor (180°/sec: p < 0.01, p < 0.05) of isokinetic strength. There were significant improvements in static balance of one leg standing eye-closed (p < 0.05) and dynamic balance of left/right velocity (p < 0.01), forward/backward velocity (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: In this study, 12 weeks of lifestyle changing of stair-climbing improved SBP, resting HR, LDL-C, VO2peak, back and knee strength, static and dynamic balance as well as increased physical activity volume of stair-climbing in the daily living.

Paraspinal Ancient Schwannoma of the Dorsal Ramus Nerve: A Case Report / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: Case report. OBJECTIVES: We report a case of paraspinal ancient schwannoma located at the upper thoracic level that mimicked an atypical lipoma or complicated epidermoid cyst. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: Few case reports of paraspinal schwannoma have been reported and the incidence of ancient schwannoma in the paraspinal muscle layer is very rare. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 39-year-old man complained of a growing palpable back mass for 5 years. He experienced aggravated chronic discomfort around the mass while lying down. Both T1- and T2- weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a well-capsuled and heterogeneous high-signal mass in the muscle layer at the level from the T1 to T4 vertebral bodies on the right side of the midline. The tumor was completely removed by en bloc resection. RESULTS: The pathologic examination revealed S-100 protein expression with degenerative changes. The lesion was diagnosed as an ancient schwannoma. CONCLUSIONS: Schwannoma is one among the multiple possible causes of benign back masses. If a mass reveals a well-encapsulated heterogeneous mass on contrast MRI, a schwannoma should be suspected.

Avaliação histológica do músculo grande dorsal submetido à expansão tecidual pós-infiltração com toxina botulínica: estudo experimental em ratas / Histological evaluation of latissimus dorsi muscle subjected to tissue expansion after infiltration with botulinum toxin: an experimental study in rats

Os autores descrevem as alterações histológicas no músculo grande dorsal submetido à expansão após relaxamento com toxina botulínica e as possíveis correlações dos achados com os benefícios práticos como, por exemplo, aumento da complacência muscular e melhor acomodação da prótese. Foi empregado o modelo experimental, com dez ratas com peso médio de 300 g, mesma faixa etária, da cepa Wistar (Rattus norvegicus) e o músculo grande dorsal. Biópsias musculares foram feitas antes e após as expansões, no músculo normal, no grupo controle (apenas com expansores) e no grupo com expansores e toxina botulínica. Expansores de 3 centímetros cúbicos eram posicionados abaixo do músculo e expandidos com 0,3 mililitros de soro fisiológico semanalmente, por 10 semanas. Os cortes histológicos foram corados segundo as técnicas de Hematoxilina-eosina, para avaliação geral, e tricrômio de Masson para avaliação do tecido conjuntivo. As fibras musculares submetidas à expansão sob a ação da toxina botulínica apresentaram focos de fibrose e proliferação de vasos sanguíneos menos intensos que no grupo sem toxina botulínica e a diminuição do número de fibras musculares e a atrofia eram menores que no grupo que não utilizou a toxina. Os achados nos permitem presumir que a expansão muscular associada ao relaxamento com toxina botulínica preserva as características da musculatura esquelética, oferecendo melhor acomodação e proteção da prótese e facilitando a dinâmica da expansão, além de diminuir a dor.

The authors describe histological changes in the latissimus dorsi muscle submitted to expansion after relaxation with botulinum toxin. The possible practical benefits include increased muscle compliance and better accommodation of a prosthesis. The experimental model involved 10 Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) of the same age, with average weight of 300 g. Muscle biopsies before and after expansion were performed in normal muscle, in a control group (with expanders alone), and in a group with expanders and botulinum toxin. Expanders measuring 3 cm3 were positioned below the muscle and expanded with 0.3 ml of saline weekly, for 10 weeks. Histological sections were stained using hematoxylin-eosin for general evaluation and Masson's trichrome for evaluation of connective tissue. The muscle fibers submitted to expansion under the action of botulinum toxin showed less fibrosis and less intense proliferation of blood vessels than in the group without botulinum toxin, and the atrophy and reduction in the number of muscle fibers were less prominent than in the group that did not receive botulinum toxin. The findings suggest that muscle expansion associated with botulinum toxin relaxation preserves skeletal muscle characteristics by providing better accommodation and protection for a prosthesis and facilitating expansion dynamics; this method may also reduce pain.

Relationship of the skin and subcutaneous tissue thickness in the tensiomyography response: a novel ultrasound observational study

SUMMARY BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to describe and correlate the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and superficial fascia thickness assessed by ultrasonography (US) with the lumbar erector spinae muscles contractile properties evaluated by tensiomyography (TMG). METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study with 50 healthy participants was performed. The point of maximum lordosis in the lumbar region of the right erector spinae was evaluated by US and TMG. First, the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and superficial fascia thicknesses (cm) were assessed by US. Second, the five contractile TMG parameters were analyzed from the right erector spinae muscles belly displacement-time curves: maximal radial displacement (Dm), contraction time (Tc), sustain time (Ts), delay time (Td), and half-relaxation time (Tr). Finally, correlation analyses using Pearson (r for parametric data) and Spearman (rs for non-parametric data) coefficients were performed. RESULTS: A strong negative correlation was shown between Dm and subcutaneous tissue thickness (rs=-0.668; P<.001). Furthermore, moderate negative correlations were observed between Dm and skin thickness (r=-0.329; P=0.020) as well as Tr and subcutaneous tissue thickness (rs=-0.369; P=0.008). The rest of the parameters did not show statistically significant correlations (P >.05). CONCLUSION: Therefore, the lumbar erector spinae contractile properties during TMG assessments, especially Dm and Tr, may be widely correlated by the skin and subcutaneous tissue thickness.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: O estudo foi elaborado para descrever e correlacionar a pele, o tecido subcutâneo e a espessura da fascia superficial avaliados pelo ultrassom (EUA) com as propriedades contráteis do músculo eretor da coluna lombar avaliadas por tensiomiografia (TMG). MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo transversal com 50 participantes saudáveis. O ponto de lordose máxima na região lombar da coluna ereta direita foi avaliado pelos EUA e TMG. Primeiro, a pele, o tecido subcutâneo e as espessuras da fáscia superficial (cm) foram avaliadas pelos EUA. Em segundo lugar, os cinco parâmetros TMG contráteis foram analisados a partir das curvas de deslocamento-tempo da barriga do músculo eretor da espinha direita: deslocamento radial máximo (Dm), tempo de contração (Tc), tempo de sustentação (Ts), tempo de atraso (Td) e meio tempo de relaxamento (Tr). Finalmente, foram realizadas análises de correlação usando os coeficientes Pearson (r para dados paramétricos) e Spearman (rs para dados não paramétricos). RESULTADOS: Uma correlação forte negativa foi mostrada entre Dm e espessura subcutânea do tecido (rs = −0,668; P < 0,001). Além disso, foram observadas correlações moderadas negativas entre Dm e espessura da pele (r = −0,329; P = 0,020), bem como a espessura subcutânea do tecido (rs = −0,369; P = 0,008). O restante dos parâmetros não mostrou correlações estatisticamente significativas (P > 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Portanto, as propriedades contráteis do eretor da espinha lombar durante as avaliações TMG, especialmente Dm e Tr, podem ser amplamente correlacionadas com a pele e a espessura subcutânea do tecido.

Perfil da musculatura extensora lombar de trabalhadores rurais na atividade leiteira / Lumbar extensor muscle profile of rural milk production workers

Introdução: A atividade leiteira é um sistema de trabalho que envolve diversas tarefas, que vão desde o manejo com o gado, alimentação, ordenha, até o consumo do produto final. A dinamometria isométrica de extensão lombar tem sido descrita como um bom instrumento de avaliação e acompanhamento laboral, sobretudo de populações que exercem muita força para desempenhar suas atividades. Objetivo: Avaliar a força isométrica de extensão lombar de produtores rurais na atividade leiteira. Métodos: A amostra contou com 47 trabalhadores rurais que exercem atividade leiteira cadastrados na Empresa de Assistência Técnica e Extensão Rural/Associação Sulina de Crédito e Assistência Rural do Rio Grande do Sul, que foram avaliados por meio de questionário sociodemográfico e testaram a força muscular de extensão lombar por meio de um sistema de dinamometria isométrica. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 20 homens com idade média de 50,45±9,44 anos e 27 mulheres com idade média de 46,15±7,56 anos. Quanto à força isométrica de extensão lombar, o grupo masculino alcançou 1169±289,96 N e o grupo feminino 571,34±190,36 N. Conclusão: Podemos concluir que o perfil da musculatura extensora lombar de trabalhadores rurais na atividade leiteira alcança valores superiores em indivíduos do gênero masculino, o que pode ser atribuído ao fato de homens apresentarem maiores níveis de massa corporal e consequentemente gerarem maior força

Background: Milk production is a work system that comprises several tasks from cattle handling, feeding and milking to product consumption. Isometric lumbar extension dynamometry is considered a satisfactory instrument for occupational evaluation and monitoring, especially for populations of workers whose activities demand high levels of strength. Objective: To investigate isometric lumbar extension strength among rural milk production workers. Methods: The sample comprised 47 rural milk production workers affiliated with the Technical Assistance and Rural Outreach Company/Southern Credit and Rural Assistance Company (Empresa de Assistência Técnica e Extensão Rural/Associação Sulina de Crédito e Assistência Rural ­ EMATER/ASCAR), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The participants were analyzed based on a sociodemographic questionnaire and lumbar extensor muscle strength testing by means of an isometric dynamometry system. Results: Participants were 20 men with average age 50.45±9.44 years old and 27 women with average age 46.15±7.56 years old. The isometric lumbar extension strength was 1,169±289.96 N for the men and 571.34±190.36 N for the women. Conclusion: The lumbar extensor muscle profile of rural milk production workers was characterized by higher values for the men, which might be attributed to the fact that men exhibit higher body mass levels, and consequently produce greater force

Scoring System for Factors Affecting Aggravation of Lumbar Disc Herniation

PURPOSE: To investigate the various imaging factors associated with aggravation of lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and develop a scoring system for prediction of LDH aggravation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 2015 to 2017, we retrospectively reviewed the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of 60 patients (30 patients with aggravated LDH and 30 patients without any altered LDH). Imaging factors for MRI evaluation included the level of LDH, disc degeneration, back muscle atrophy, facet joint degeneration, ligamentum flavum thickness and interspinous ligament degeneration. Flexion-extension difference was measured with simple radiography. The scoring system was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. RESULTS: The aggravated group manifested a higher grade of disc degeneration, back muscle atrophy and facet degeneration than the control group. The ligamentum flavum thickness in the aggravated group was thicker than in the group with unaltered LDH. The summation score was defined as the sum of the grade of disc degeneration, back muscle atrophy and facet joint degeneration. The area under the ROC curve showing the threshold value of the summation score for prediction of aggravation of LDH was 0.832 and the threshold value corresponded to 6.5. CONCLUSION: Disc degeneration, facet degeneration, back muscle atrophy and ligamentum flavum thickness are important factors in predicting aggravation of LDH and may facilitate the determination of treatment strategy in patients with LDH. The summation score is available as supplemental data.

Lumbar Extensor Muscle Size and Isometric Muscle Strength in Women with Symptomatic Lumbar Degenerative Diseases

STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional design. PURPOSE: To determine the characteristics of lumbar extensor muscle (LEM) size and isometric muscle strength and examine their correlations in women with lumbar degenerative diseases (LDDs). OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Many studies have evaluated the relationship between muscle size and strength, but the results have been controversial. METHODS: Seventy-four female patients (mean age, 66 years) who consecutively underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion (L1–S1) were recruited. The cross-sectional area (CSA) of the back extensor muscles was measured between L1–2 to L5–S1, and the total sum of the CSAs at each disc level was calculated. Back extensor muscle strength was evaluated using a MedX lumbar extension machine. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI, 0–100) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS, 0–10) of lower back pain were determined. RESULTS: The mean CSAs of the LEM at each level (L1/2–L5/S1) and the total sum were 34.3, 36.3, 35.1, 31.4, 21.9, and 156.2 cm2, respectively. The mean isometric strength at each angle (range, 0°–72°) was 32.5, 50.1, 72.0, 88.7, 100.7, 112.2, and 126.2 ft-lb, respectively. The mean ODI and VAS scores were 54.6 and 6.6, and the mean body weight and body mass index (BMI) were 59.9 kg and 24.9 kg/m2, respectively. The CSAs of the upper lumbar level (L1–4) and the total sum of the CSAs were associated with isometric strength, which was negatively correlated with patients’ age and ODI and positively associated with body weight and BMI, mainly at higher lumbar flexion angles (48°–72°). CONCLUSIONS: In women with LDD, LEM sizes of the upper lumbar levels (L1–4) were larger than those of the lower levels (L4–S1) and were positively associated with muscle strength. The upper lumbar levels in patients with LDDs appear to play a compensatory role when degenerative lesions are present in the lower lumbar levels.

Relationship between Lumbar Disc Degeneration and Back Muscle Degeneration / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective evaluation. OBJECTIVES: To determine the relationship between lumbar disc degeneration and back muscle degeneration. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: In the degenerative cascade of the spine described by Kirkaldy-Willis, degeneration of the disc and of the facet joint co-occur with aging. However, the muscles of the back are not included in this model. Several studies have reported significant correlations between back muscle degeneration and facet joint arthritis. The purpose of our study was to evaluate relationships between lumbar disc degeneration and fatty degeneration of the back muscles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 65 patients over the age of 50 years who had undergone lumbar spine MRI in our orthopaedic clinic were recruited. Fatty degeneration of the back muscles was qualitatively graded from I to III by the degree of the fat signal in the muscle layer, including both the multifidus and erector spinae. Lumbar disc degeneration was graded from I to V according to the Pfirrmann grade. Correlations between the back muscle degeneration grade and radiological parameters were analyzed. RESULTS: The degeneration grade of the multifidus correlated positively with age and the grade of disc degeneration. Correlations with other radiologic parameters were not significant. The degeneration grade of the erector spinae correlated positively with age. Other radiologic parameters were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant correlation between lumbar disc degeneration and multifidus degeneration. Erector spinae degeneration was correlated with age, but not with lumbar disc degeneration. The degenerative cascade of the spine was accompanied by fatty changes of the multifidus with aging.

Improvement of Health Indicators after Participating in Health Promotion Program of General Hospital Staff: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND: An 8-week health program is achieved for health providers in a general hospital in Seoul to verify whether health parameters are enhanced by improving life habits. We want to examine the effect of this program with measuring health parameters and exercise ability. This study is performed as a pilot study, and the goal is to introduce the outcome of health program with experimental methods. METHODS: Participants of this research consist of 42 health providers who were overweight, and they enrolled an 8-week health program in 2015. They took a class about improving eating habits and recorded daily diet. Moreover, they implemented exercise program with encouraging active participation by rewarding members who attended the program frequently. RESULTS: The result is analyzed with 31 participants who finished the program. There are 4 men whose physical indices correspond with the criteria of metabolic syndrome. Otherwise, 27 women have physical indices below the criteria. The result indicates that physical indices would not reveal meaningful changes. However, basal fitness comprised of flexibility, sit-up, and back muscle strength implies meaningful improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Even though there were some problems to revise in exercise intervention, it was accomplished systematically while nutrition intervention was not controlled strictly. In addition, factors including inspiring the enrollment of men and extending the period of program should be considered to improve the next program. The final goal of the health promoting hospital is to improve the health of health providers by sustaining this program with developing exercise and nutrition intervention in detail.

Bone Mineral Density and Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures in Traditional, Unassisted, Free-Diving Women (Haenyeos)

BACKGROUND: Water pressure and muscle contraction may influence bone mineral density (BMD) in a positive way. However, divers experience weightlessness, which has a negative effect on BMD. The present study investigated BMD difference in normal controls and woman free-divers with vertebral fracture and with no fracture. METHODS: Between January 2010 and December 2014, traditional woman divers (known as Haenyeo in Korean), and non-diving women were investigated. The study population was divided into osteoporotic vertebral fracture and non-fracture groups. The BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck was measured. The radiological parameters for global spinal sagittal balance were measured. RESULTS: Thirty free-diving women and thirty-three non-diving women were enrolled in this study. The mean age of the divers was 72.1 ± 4.7 years and that of the controls was 72.7 ± 4.0 years (P = 0.61). There was no statistical difference in BMD between the divers and controls. In divers, cervical lordosis and pelvic tilt were significantly increased in the fracture subgroup compared to the non-fracture subgroup (P = 0.028 and P = 0.008, respectively). Sagittal vertical axis was statistically significantly correlated with cervical lordosis (Spearman's rho R = 0.41, P = 0.03), and pelvic tilt (Spearman's rho R = 0.46, P = 0.01) in divers. CONCLUSION: BMD did not differ significantly between divers and controls during their postmenopausal period. When osteoporotic spinal fractures develop, compensation mechanisms, such as increased cervical lordosis and pelvic tilt, was more evident in traditional woman divers. This may be due to the superior back muscle strength and spinal mobility of this group of women.

Comparison Between Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation to Abdominal and Back Muscles on Postural Balance in Post-stroke Hemiplegic Patients

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to abdominal muscles and back muscles on postural balance in post-stroke hemiplegic patients. METHODS: Thirty post-stroke hemiplegic patients were prospectively enrolled and randomly assigned to one of the three groups: core muscle-strengthening exercise (CME) with NMES to abdominal muscles (group A), CME with NMES to back muscles (group B), and CME alone (group C). All subjects underwent their targeted interventions for 30 minutes each day, 5 days per week for 3 weeks under a conventional stroke rehabilitation program. Subjects were evaluated using Korean version of Berg Balance Scale (K-BBS), Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), Korean version of Modified Barthel Index (K-MBI), Weight Distribution Index (WDI), and Stability Index (SI) just before and 3 weeks after intervention. RESULTS: Changes in K-BBS (p < 0.05) and TIS (p < 0.05) were significantly higher in group A (18.5±8.10, 6.6±1.90) and group B (19.9±5.44, 7.0±2.26) than in group C (8.4±4.14, 3.1±0.99). However, K-MBI, WDI, and SI failed to show any significant difference. No significant difference in all outcomes was observed between groups A and B. CONCLUSION: The effect of NMES to the abdominal muscles was similar to the effect on back muscles in terms of postural balance. This finding indicated that the NMES to the abdominal muscles may be an alternative for post-stroke hemiplegic patients contraindicated for NMES to the back muscles. Additional studies investigating the effects of NMES on abdominal and back muscles are needed.

Effects of NMES and Horseback Riding Using a Robotic Device on the Trunk Muscle Activity and Gross Motor Function in Children with Spastic Diplegia

PURPOSE: This study examined the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and horseback riding using a robotic device on the trunk muscle activity and gross motor function in children with spastic diplegia. METHODS: Children with spastic diplegia were divided into two groups: an experimental group (NMES and horseback riding using a robotic device [n=10]) and a control group (placebo NMES and horseback riding using a robotic device [n=10]). Each group received general physical therapy and occupational therapy. Each intervention involved the administration of NMES for 15 minutes and horseback riding using robotic device therapy for 15 minutes three times a week for 4 weeks. The evaluation included both the rectus abdominis muscles (RA), external oblique muscles (EO), thoracic paraspinal muscles (TP), and lumbar paraspinal muscles (LP) activity and GMFM. RESULTS: The RA, EO, TP, and LP muscle activity, GMFM C, D, and E were increased significantly in the experimental and control groups. A significant increase in both the TP muscle activity and GMFM D was observed in the experimental group compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: This study showed that horseback riding using a robotic device is an effective intervention for trunk muscle activity and GMFM in children with spastic diplegia. However, if NMES is added to the back muscles, it is possible to further increase the thoracic paraspinal muscle activity and standing ability.

Necrotizing fasciitis likely mistaken for chronic low back pain: A case report

Necrotizing fasciitis is a significant factor of morbidity and mortality due to its sudden onset and rapid spread. It is accompanied by systemic toxicity and often fatal unless promptly recognized and aggressively treated. We reported a patient who presented symptoms confused with disc herniation and delayed initial diagnosis. The patient was treated for chronic low back pain. The origin of the pain was a foreign body-induced intra-abdominal infection that invaded the back muscles and eventually progressed to necrotizing fasciitis.

A Rare Cause of Thoracic Spinal Cord Compression by Multiple Large Tarlov Cysts / 대한신경손상학회지

Spinal extradural arachnoid cyst (SEAC) is a rare cause of spinal cord compression. Bifocal location of thoracic and sacral SEACs is rarely reported in the literature. We report a case of thoracic spinal cord compression by SEAC associated with asymptomatic multiple sacral Tarlov cysts (TC). The surgical management and postoperative outcome of the patient are discussed. A 34-year-old woman was referred to the hospital for acute thoracic pain with a history of chronic long-standing back pain. She complained of walking difficulties. Neurological examination demonstrated incomplete spastic paraplegia with sensory level in T9. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large cystic formation from T7-11 and at the level of the sacrum. We performed laminectomies at the level of interest from T7-11. The cysts were dissected from the underlying dura after removal of the cerebrospinal fluid. We found nerve tissue in the cysts. We excised the cyst and preserved the nerve roots. Subsequently, a duraplasty was performed with autologous grafts from the lumbar fascia. The condition of the patient improved after surgery and he was recovering well at follow-up. Although the surgical treatment of TC is controversial, especially at the sacral lumbar level, decompression at the dorsal level in this case is indisputable.

Chronic low back pain in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: prevalence and predictors of back muscle strength and its correlation with disability / Lombalgia crônica em pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico: prevalência e preditores da força muscular de extensão de tronco e sua correlação com a incapacidade

Abstract Objective: To determine the prevalence of Chronic Low Back Pain and predictors of Back Muscle Strength in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Methods: Cross-sectional study. Ninety-six ambulatory patients with lupus were selected by non-probability sampling and interviewed and tested during medical consultation. The outcomes measurements were: Point prevalence of chronic low back pain, Oswestry Disability Index, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Fatigue Severity Scale and maximal voluntary isometric contractions of handgrip and of the back muscles. Correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression were used in statistical analysis. Results: Of the 96 individuals interviewed, 25 had chronic low back pain, indicating a point prevalence of 26% (92% women). The correlation between the Oswestry Index and maximal voluntary isometric contraction of the back muscles was r = −0.4, 95% CI [−0.68; −0.01] and between the maximal voluntary isometric contraction of handgrip and of the back muscles was r = 0.72, 95% CI [0.51; 0.88]. The regression model presented the highest value of R 2 being observed when maximal voluntary isometric contraction of the back muscles was tested with five independent variables (63%). In this model handgrip strength was the only predictive variable (β = 0.61, p = 0.001). Conclusions: The prevalence of chronic low back pain in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus was 26%. The maximal voluntary isometric contraction of the back muscles was 63% predicted by five variables of interest, however, only the handgrip strength was a statistically significant predictive variable. The maximal voluntary isometric contraction of the back muscles presented a linear relation directly proportional to handgrip and inversely proportional to Oswestry Index i.e. stronger back muscles are associated with lower disability scores.

Resumo Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de lombalgia crônica (LBC) e os preditores de força muscular nas costas (FMC) em pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES). Métodos: Estudo transversal. Selecionaram-se 96 pacientes ambulatoriais com LES por amostragem não probabilística, entrevistados e testados durante consultas médicas. As medidas de desfecho foram: prevalência ocasional de LBC, Índice de Incapacidade de Oswestry, Escala Tampa para Cinesiofobia, Escala de Gravidade da Fadiga e contrações isométricas voluntárias máximas (CIVM) de preensão manual e dos músculos das costas. Usaram-se o coeficiente de correlação e a regressão linear múltipla na análise estatística. Resultados: Dos 96 indivíduos entrevistados, 25 apresentavam LBC, o que indicou uma prevalência circunstancial de 26% (92% mulheres). A correlação entre o Índice de Incapacidade de Oswestry e a contração isométrica voluntária máxima dos músculos das costas foi de r = -0,4, IC 95% [-0,68; -0,01] e entre a CIVM de preensão manual e dos músculos das costas foi de r = 0,72, IC 95% [0,51; 0,88]. O modelo de regressão apresentou o maior valor de R2 observado quando a CIVM dos músculos das costas foi testada com cinco variáveis independentes (63%). Nesse modelo, a força de preensão manual foi a única variável preditiva (ß = 0,61, p = 0,001). Conclusões: A prevalência de LBC em indivíduos com LES foi de 26%. A CIVM dos músculos das costas foi 63% prevista por cinco variáveis de interesse. No entanto, apenas a força de preensão manual foi uma variável preditiva estatisticamente significativa. A CIVM dos músculos das costas apresentou uma relação linear diretamente proporcional à força de preensão manual e inversamente proporcional ao Índice de Incapacidade de Oswestry (ou seja, músculos das costas mais fortes estão associados a menores pontuações de incapacidade).

Thoracolumbar Paraspinal Myonecrosis after Aortic Dissection / 대한신경손상학회지

Thoracolumbar paraspinal myonecrosis can be developed with various etiologies. It can induce compartment syndrome of spinal muscles and cause elevated pressure on back muscles, resulting in severe back pain. Thoracolumbar paraspinal myonecrosis is a very rare disease. There are only a few studies about paraspinal myonecrosis. Here we report a case of a spontaneous thoracolumbar paraspinal myonecrosis in a patient who had asymptomatic abdominal aortic dissection. Through this case, etiologies, clinical features, radiologic findings, and treatment options for thoracolumbar paraspinal myonecrosis are discussed.

Risk Factors of Proximal Junctional Kyphosis after Multilevel Fusion Surgery: More Than 2 Years Follow-Up Data

OBJECTIVE: Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is radiologic finding, and is defined as kyphosis of >10° at the proximal end of a construct. The aim of this study is to identify factors associated with PJK after segmental spinal instrumented fusion in adults with spinal deformity with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. METHODS: A total of 49 cases of adult spinal deformity treated by segmental spinal instrumented fusion at two university hospitals from 2004 to 2011 were enrolled in this study. All enrolled cases included at least 4 or more levels from L5 or the sacral level. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of PJK during follow-up, and these two groups were compared to identify factors related to PJK. RESULTS: PJK was observed in 16 of the 49 cases. Age, sex and mean follow-up duration were not statistically different between two groups. However, mean bone marrow density (BMD) and mean back muscle volume at the T10 to L2 level was significantly lower in the PJK group. Preoperatively, the distance between the C7 plumb line and uppermost instrumented vertebra (UIV) were no different in the two groups, but at final follow-up a significant intergroup difference was observed. Interestingly, spinal instrumentation factors, such as, receipt of a revision operation, the use of a cross-link, and screw fracture were no different in the two groups at final follow-up. CONCLUSION: Preoperative BMD, sagittal imbalance at UIV, and thoracolumbar muscle volume were found to be strongly associated with the presence of PJK.