Herniation of intervertebral disc into thoracolumbar fracture vertebral body leads to malunion of fracture and decrease of intervertebral space height / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the clinical characteristics of intervertebral disc tissue injury and herniation into the vertebral body in thoracolumbar fracture on fracture healing, vertebral bone defect volume and intervertebral space height.@*METHODS@#From April 2016 to April 2020, a total of 140 patients with thoracolumbar single vertebral fracture combined with upper intervertebral disc injury treated with pedicle screw rod system reduction and internal fixation in our hospital. There were 83 males and 57 females, aged from 19 to 58 years old, with an average age of (39.33±10.26) years old. All patients were followed up regularly 6 months, 12 months and 18 months after surgery. The patients with injured intervertebral disc tissue not herniated into the fractured vertebral body were the control group, and the patients with injured intervertebral disc and herniated into the fractured vertebral body were the observation group. By detecting the thoracolumbar AP and lateral X-ray films, CT and MRI of the thoracolumbar segment at different follow-up time, calculate the changes of the wedge angle of the fractured vertebral body, the sagittal kyphosis angle and the height of the superior adjacent intervertebral space, the changes of the fracture healing and bone defect volume after the reduction of the vertebral body, and the changes of the intervertebral disc degeneration grade. The prognosis was evaluated by visual analogue scale(VAS) and Oswestry disability index(ODI). Finally, the differences of the above results among different groups were comprehensively analyzed.@*RESULTS@#All the patients had normal wound healing without complications. A total of 87 patients received complete follow-up data, at least 18 months after internal fixation. Thoracolumbar AP and lateral X-ray films showed that 18 months after the reduction and internal fixation operation, the vertebral wedge angle, sagittal kyphosis angle and the height of the upper adjacent intervertebral space in the observation group were greater than those in the control group(P<0.05). CT scanning showed that the deformity of the fracture healed 12 months after the vertebral body reduction in the observation group and formed a "cavity" of bone defect connected with the intervertebral space, and its volume was significantly increased compared with that before (P<0.05). MRI scanning showed that the degeneration rate of injured intervertebral discs in the observation group was more serious than that in the control group 12 months after operation(P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in VAS and ODI score at each time.@*CONCLUSION@#Herniation of injured intervertebral disc tissue hernias into the fractured vertebral body leads to increased bone resorption defect volume around the fracture and forms a malunion "cavity" connected with the intervertebral space. This may be the main reason for the change of vertebral wedge angle, the increase of sagittal kyphosis angle and the decrease of intervertebral space height after removal of internal fixation devices.

Multivariate correlation analysis of T1S and C7S / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To determine whether C7 angles (C7 slope, C7S) could replace T1 angles (T1 slope, T1S) by correlation analysis of T1S and C7S.@*METHODS@#A total of 442 patients from July 2015 to July 2020 in outpatient and inpatient department were enrolled retrospectively, and 259 patients who could identify the upper endplate of T1 were screened out . Of them, there were 145 males and 114 females, aged from 20 to 83 years old with an average of (58.6±11.2) years, including 163 patients with cervical spine surgery and 96 non-surgical patients. Patients were stratified by sex, age, cervical kyphosis, cervical alignment imbalance, and cervical spine surgery. These 259 patients included 145 cases in the male group, 114 cases in the female group;76 cases in the youth group (<40 years old), 109 cases in the middle-aged group (40 to 60 years old), and 74 cases in the elderly group(>60 years old); 92 cases in the cervical kyphosis group, 167 cases in the non-kyphosis group;51 cases in the cervical sequence imbalance group, 208 cases in the non-imbalance group;163 cases in the cervical surgery group, 96 cases in the non-operation group. The correlations of C7S and T1S in various modalities groups were analyzed.@*RESULTS@#Of 442 patients, the recognition rate of upper endplate of T1 was 58.6%(259/442), and that of C7 was 90.7%. The mean T1S and C7S of the 259 patients were (24.5±8.0)° [(25.9±7.7)° in the male group and (23.7±6.9)° in the female group] and (20.8±7.3)° [(22.5±7.5)° in the male group and(19.7±5.8)° in the female group], respectively. The total correlation coefficient between C7S and T1S was r=0.89, R2=0.79, and the linear regression equation was T1S=0.91×C7S+4.35. In the above general information and the grouping of deformity factors, T1S was highly correlated with C7S(r value 0.85 to 0.92, P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#There is a high correlation between T1S and C7S in different factor groups. For cases where T1S cannot be measured, C7S can be used to provide guidance and reference for evaluating the sagittal balance of the spine, analyzing the condition, and formulating surgical plans.

Advances in surgical strategies for ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament involving the C 2 segment / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the application of surgical strategies for the treatment of cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) involving the C 2 segment.@*METHODS@#The literature about the surgery for cervical OPLL involving C 2 segment was reviewed, and the indications, advantages, and disadvantages of surgery were summarized.@*RESULTS@#For cervical OPLL involving the C 2 segments, laminectomy is suitable for patients with OPLL involving multiple segments, often combined with screw fixation, and has the advantages of adequate decompression and restoration of cervical curvature, with the disadvantages of loss of cervical fixed segmental mobility. Canal-expansive laminoplasty is suitable for patients with positive K-line and has the advantages of simple operation and preservation of cervical segmental mobility, and the disadvantages include progression of ossification, axial symptoms, and fracture of the portal axis. Dome-like laminoplasty is suitable for patients without kyphosis/cervical instability and with negative R-line, and can reduce the occurrence of axial symptoms, with the disadvantage of limited decompression. The Shelter technique is suitable for patients with single/double segments and canal encroachment >50% and allows for direct decompression, but is technically demanding and involves risk of dural tear and nerve injury. Double-dome laminoplasty is suitable for patients without kyphosis/cervical instability. Its advantages are the reduction of damage to the cervical semispinal muscles and attachment points and maintenance of cervical curvature, but there is progress in postoperative ossification.@*CONCLUSION@#OPLL involving the C 2 segment is a complex subtype of cervical OPLL, which is mainly treated through posterior surgery. However, the degree of spinal cord floatation is limited, and with the progress of ossification, the long-term effectiveness is poor. More research is needed to address the etiology of OPLL and to establish a systematic treatment strategy for cervical OPLL involving the C 2 segment.

Preoperative standing to prone spinal-pelvic sagittal parameter changes in old traumatic spinal fractures with kyphosis / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the changes in spinal-pelvic sagittal parameters from preoperative standing to prone position in old traumatic spinal fractures with kyphosis.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 36 patients admitted between December 2016 and June 2021 for surgical treatment of old traumatic spinal fractures with kyphosis, including 7 males and 29 females, aged from 50 to 79 years (mean, 63.9 years), were retrospectively analyzed. Lesion segments included 2 cases of T 11, 12 cases of T 12, 2 cases of T 11, 12, 4 cases of T 12 and L 1, 12 cases of L 1, 2 cases of L 2, 1 case of L 2, 3, and 1 case of L 3. The disease duration ranged from 4 to 120 months, with an average of 19.6 months. Surgical procedures included Smith-Petersen osteotomy in 4 cases, Ponte osteotomy in 6 cases, pedicle subtraction osteotomy in 2 cases, and improved fourth level osteotomy in 18 cases; the remaining 6 cases were not osteotomized. The bone mineral density ranged from -3.0 to 0.5 T, with a mean of -1.62 T. The spinal-pelvic sagittal parameters from preoperative standing to prone positions were measured, including local kyphosis Cobb angle (LKCA), thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and PI and LL mismatch (PI-LL). The kyphotic flexibility=(preoperative standing LKCA-preoperative prone LKCA)/preoperative standing LKCA×100%. Spinal-pelvic sagittal parameters were compared between standing position and prone position before operation, and Pearson correlation was used to judge the correlation between the parameters of standing position and prone position before operation.@*RESULTS@#When the position changed from standing to prone, LKCA and TK decreased significantly ( P<0.05), while SS, LL, PT, and PI-LL had no significant difference ( P>0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed that LL was significantly correlated with SS and PI-LL in both standing and prone positions ( P<0.05), and the correlation strength between LL and SS in prone position was higher than that in standing position. In the standing position, LKCA was significantly correlated with SS and PT ( P<0.05). However, when the position changed from standing to prone, the correlation between LKCA and SS and PT disappeared, while PT and PI-LL was positive correlation ( P<0.05). The kyphotic flexibility was 25.13%-78.79%, with an average of 33.85%.@*CONCLUSION@#For the patients of old traumatic spinal fractures with kyphosis, the preoperative LKCA and TK decrease significantly from standing position to prone position, and the correlation between spinal and pelvic parameters also changed, which should be taken into account in the formulation of preoperative surgical plan.

Application of back-forward Bending CT localization image in the prediction of proximal junctional kyphosis after spinal deformity surgery in adults / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the feasibility of predicting proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in adults after spinal deformity surgery based on back-forward Bending CT localization images and related predictive indicators.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed for 31 adult patients with spinal deformity who underwent posterior osteotomy and long-segment fusion fixation between March 2017 and March 2020. There were 5 males and 26 females with an average age of 62.5 years (range, 30-77 years). The upper instrumented vertebrae (UIV) located at T 5 in 1 case, T 6 in 1 case, T 9 in 13 cases, T 10 in 12 cases, and T 11 in 4 cases. The lowest instrumented vertebrae (LIV) located at L 1 in 3 cases, L 2 in 3 cases, L 3 in 10 cases, L 4 in 7 cases, L 5 in 5 cases, and S 1 in 3 cases. Based on the full-length lateral X-ray film of the spine in the standing position before and after operation and back-forward Bending CT localization images before operation, the sagittal sequence of the spine was obtained, and the relevant indexes were measured, including thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), local kyphosis Cobb angle (LKCA) [the difference between the different positions before operation (recovery value) was calculated], kyphosis flexibility, hyperextension sagittal vertical axis (hSVA), T 2-L 5 hyperextension C 7-vertebral sagittal offset (hC 7-VSO), and pre- and post-operative proximal junctional angle (PJA). At last follow-up, the patients were divided into PJK and non-PJK groups based on PJA to determine whether they had PJK. The gender, age, body mass index (BMI), number of fusion segments, number of cases with coronal plane deformity, bone mineral density (T value), UIV position, LIV position, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, osteotomy grading, and related imaging indicators were compared between the two groups. The hC 7-VSO of the vertebral body with significant differences between groups was taken, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was used to evaluate its accuracy in predicting the occurrence of PJK.@*RESULTS@#All 31 patients were followed up 13-52 months, with an average of 30.0 months. The patient's PJA was 1.4°-29.0° at last follow-up, with an average of 10.4°; PJK occurred in 8 cases (25.8%). There was no significant difference in gender, age, BMI, number of fusion segments, number of cases with coronal plane deformity, bone mineral density (T value), UIV position, LIV position, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and osteotomy grading between the two groups ( P>0.05). Imaging measurements showed that the LL recovery value and T 8-L 3 vertebral hC 7-VSO in the PJK group were significantly higher than those in the non-PJK group ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference in hyperextension TK, hyperextension LL, hyperextension LKCA, TK recovery value, LL recovery value, kyphosis flexibility, hSVA, and T 2-T 7, L 4, L 5 vertebral hC 7-VSO ( P>0.05). T 8-L 3 vertebral hC 7-VSO was analyzed for ROC curve, and combined with the area under curve and the comprehensive evaluation of sensitivity and specificity, the best predictive index was hC 7-L 2, the cut-off value was 2.54 cm, the sensitivity was 100%, and the specificity was 60.9%.@*CONCLUSION@#Preoperative back-forward Bending CT localization image can be used to predict the occurrence of PJK after posterior osteotomy and long-segment fusion fixation in adult spinal deformity. If the patient's T 8-L 2 vertebral hC 7-VSO is too large, it indicates a higher risk of postoperative PJK. The best predictive index is hC 7-L 2, and the cut-off value is 2.54 cm.

Back-forward bending CT in simulated surgical position to evaluate the remaining real angle and flexibility of thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To introduce a scout view scanning technique of back-forward bending CT (BFB-CT) in simulated surgical position for evaluating the remaining real angle and flexibility of thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture.@*METHODS@#A total of 28 patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture who met the selection criteria between June 2018 and December 2021 were included in the study. There were 6 males and 22 females with an average age of 69.5 years (range, 56-92 years). The injured vertebra were located at T 10-L 2, including 11 cases of single thoracic fracture, 11 cases of single lumbar fracture, and 6 cases of multiple thoracolumbar fractures. The disease duration ranged from 3 weeks to 36 months, with a median of 5 months. All patients received examinations of BFB-CT and standing lateral full-spine X-ray (SLFSX). The thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), local kyphosis of injured vertebra (LKIV), lumbar lordosis (LL), and the sagittal vertical axis (SVA) were measured. Referring to the calculation method of scoliosis flexibility, the kyphosis flexibility of thoracic, thoracolumbar, and injured vertebra were calculated respectively. The sagittal parameters measured by the two methods were compared, and the correlation of the parameters measured by the two methods was analyzed by Pearson correlation.@*RESULTS@#Except LL ( P>0.05), TK, TLK, LKIV, and SVA measured by BFB-CT were significantly lower than those measured by SLFSX ( P<0.05). The flexibilities of thoracic, thoracolumbar, and injured vertebra were 34.1%±18.8%, 36.2%±13.8%, and 39.3%±18.6%, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that the sagittal parameters measured by the two methods were positively correlated ( P<0.001), and the correlation coefficients of TK, TLK, LKIV, and SVA were 0.900, 0.730, 0.700, and 0.680, respectively.@*CONCLUSION@#Thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture shows an excellent flexibility and BFB-CT in simulated surgical position can obtain the remaining real angle which need to be corrected surgically.

Sistemas de instrumentación espinal en la corrección de la cifosis toracolumbar por espondilitisanquilopoyética / Spinal Instrumentation Systems in The Correction of Thoracolumbar Kyphosis Due to AnkylosingSpondylitis

Introducción: En pocas áreas de la cirugía ortopédica se han producido cambios técnicos tan importantes en las últimas décadas como en la cirugía correctora espinal. Los cambios fundamentales han sobrevenido con los nuevos sistemas de instrumentación espinal, que se han modificado y mejorado sustancialmente para facilitar la corrección tridimensional de la deformidad y aportar fijación segura de la columna, corrección y estabilidad. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados alcanzados con los sistemas de instrumentación espinal utilizados en la corrección de la cifosis toracolumbar por espondilitis anquilopoyética. Método: Se realizó un estudio tipo descriptivo, retrospectivo y longitudinal a 16 pacientes con cifosis toracolumbar por espondilitis anquilopoyética intervenidos con la técnica de osteotomía de sustracción pedicular e instrumentados con sistemas pediculares y sublaminar tipo Luque, en el servicio de Ortopedia del Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras, durante el período comprendido entre marzo de 2001 y marzo de 2021. Resultados: La totalidad de los pacientes correspondieron al sexo masculino, color de la piel blanca y edad promedio de 39 años. Se logró más del 80 por ciento de corrección en el perfil sagital y un promedio de 34,3° por osteotomía, sin complicaciones neurológicas mayores. Se obtuvo un buen resultado funcional, con un alto grado de satisfacción de los pacientes y mejora de su calidad de vida. Conclusiones: La utilización de ambos sistemas instrumentación espinal es eficaz para mantener la corrección de la cifosis toracolumbar por espondilitis anquilopoyética(AU)

Introduction: Few areas of orthopedic surgery have had such important technical changes in recent decades as in corrective spinal surgery. Fundamental changes have come with the new spinal instrumentation systems, which have been substantially modified and improved to facilitate three-dimensional correction of the deformity and provide secure spinal fixation, correction and stability. Objective: To evaluate the results achieved with the spinal instrumentation systems used in the correction of thoracolumbar kyphosis due to ankylosing spondylitis. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal study was carried out on 16 patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis due to ankylosing spondylitis operated on with the pedicle subtraction osteotomy technique and instrumented with Luque-type pedicle and sublaminar systems, in the Orthopedics service at Hermanos Ameijeiras Surgical Clinical Hospital, from March 2001 to March 2021. Results: All the patients were male, white skin color and average age of 39 years. More than 80 percent correction was achieved in the sagittal profile and an average of 34.3° per osteotomy, without major neurological complications. Good functional results were obtained, with high degree of patient satisfaction and improvement in their quality of life. Conclusions: The use of both spinal instrumentation systems is effective in maintaining the correction of thoracolumbar kyphosis due to ankylosing spondylitis(AU)

Short-segment pedicle screw fixation combined with vertebroplasty for the treatment of Kümmell disease with kyphosis / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the clinical effects of posterior short-segment pedicle screw internal fixation combined with vertebroplasty for the treatment of Kümmell disease with kyphosis.@*METHODS@#Twenty-four patients with Kümmell disease complicated with kyphosis treated by posterior short-segment pedicle screw internal fixation combined with vertebroplasty from January 2016 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed, including 6 males and 18 females, aged 63 to 85 (73.1±6.5) years old. The clinical effect was evaluate by visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), the anterior height of injured vertebral body, and the sagittal Cobb angle of the affected segment beforeoperation, at 3 days and final follow up after operation. And the surgical complications were observed.@*RESULTS@#All 24 patients were followed up from 12 to 24 months with an average of (15.5±3.2) months. The VAS score was decreased from 5.21±1.06 preoperatively to 2.38±0.58 at 3 days postoperatively and 1.71±0.75 at final follow-up;ODI was decreased from (50.4±13.5)% preoperatively to (20.9±8.0)% at 3 days postoperatively and (16.7±9.6)% at final follow-up;the anterior height of injured vertebral body was restored from (8.0±4.2) mm before surgery to (18.1±5.0) mm at 3 days after surgery and (16.8±5.1) mm at final follow up;the sagittal Cobb angle of affected segment was decreased from (19.5±6.3)° preoperatively to (7.6±2.1)° at 3 days after surgery and(8.4±1.7)° at final follow-up. VAS, ODI, anterior height of injured vertebral body, and sagittal Cobb angle of affected segment were significantly improved at 3 days after operation and at final follow-up (@*CONCLUSION@#Posterior short-segment pedicle screw internal fixation combined with vertebroplasty for the treatment of Kümmell disease with kyphosis has relatively small surgical trauma, excellent clinical results, good vertebral height recovery, satisfactory correction of kyphotic angle, and fewer complications, etc. It is a safe and effective surgical method to treat Kümmell disease with kyphosis.

Risk factors of recurrent kyphosis in thoracolumbar burst fracture patients treated by short segmental pedicle screw fixation / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the risk factors of recurrent kyphosis after removal of short segmental pedicle screw fixation in patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures.@*METHODS@#Retrospective analysis was conducted of 144 cases of thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological impairment treated in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2010 to December 2017. There were 74 males and 70 females, with an average age of (39.1±13.2) years. The distribution of the injured vertebrae was T12: 42, L1: 72 and L2: 30, with fracture types of A3: 90, B1: 25 and B2: 29. The patients were divided into two groups: Recurrent kyphosis group (n=92) and non-recurrent kyphosis group (n=52). SPSS 26.0 software was used for univariate analysis and Logistic regression analysis.@*RESULTS@#The average follow-up time was 28 (20-113) months. The imaging indexes of pre-operation, 3 days post-operation, 12 months post-operation and the last follow-up were measured and compared. Anterior vertebral body height, segmental kyphosis, vertebral wadge angle and Gardner deformity were significantly improved after operation (P < 0.05), and there were some degrees of loss in the 1-year follow-up; anterior vertebral body height and vertebral wadge angle were no longer changed after the removal of the screws; however, segmental kyphosis and Gardner deformity were still aggravated after the removal of the screws (P < 0.05). There were some degrees of collapse of the height of the upper and lower discs during the follow-up. Univariate analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) between the two groups in gender, age (36.9 years vs. 43.0 years), upper disc injury, CT value (174 vs. 160), segmental kyphosis (16.6° vs. 13.3°), vertebral wadge angle (16.7° vs. 13.6°), Gardner deformity (19.1° vs. 15.2°) and ratio of anterior vertebral body height (0.65 vs. 0.71). Logistic regression analysis showed that male (OR: 2.88, 95%CI: 1.196-6.933), upper disc injury (OR: 2.962, 95%CI: 1.062-8.258) and injured vertebral wedge angle were risk factors of recurrent kyphosis after removal of internal fixation for thoracolumbar burst fracture (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The patients with thoracolumbar burst fracture can obtain satisfactory effect immediately after posterior short segmental pedicle screw fixation, however, there may be some degree of loss during the follow-up. Male, upper disc injury and injured vertebral wedge angle are the risk factors of recurrent kyphosis after removal of internal fixation for thoracolumbar burst fracture.

Clinical efficacy of short-term halo-pelvic traction combined with surgery in the treatment of severe spinal deformities / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the clinical efficacy of short-term halo-pelvic traction (HPT) combined with surgery in the treatment of severe spinal deformities.@*METHODS@#In the study, 24 patients diagnosed as severe spinal deformity accepted the treatment of one-stage short-term HPT and two-stage surgery from January 2015 to May 2018 in our orthopedics department. 24 cases (9 males and 15 females) were retrospectively reviewed. The average age of the cohort was (28.8±10.0) years (12－48 years). The height, scoliosis angle, kyphosis angle, the height difference of shoulders, the height difference of crista iliaca, C7PL-CSVL and the perpendicular distance of S1 and the convex point of the patients were assessed at pre-traction, post-traction and post-surgery. The paired t test was used to analyze the difference among pre-traction, post-traction and post-surgery.@*RESULTS@#The average traction time of 24 cases was (2.5±1.1) weeks (1－5 weeks). The height of pre-traction and post-traction were (141.7±11.2) cm (116-167 cm) and (154.1±9.5) cm (136－176 cm) respectively, showing significant difference (P < 0.05), and the increased height was (12.4±4.6) cm (4－20 cm). The average scoliosis angle before traction was 104.9°±35.0°(25°－158°), and it was significantly decreased in post-traction[64.8°±21.0°(19°－92°)] and post-surgery[39.3°±17.0° (10°-70°)] (P < 0.05). The traction's coronal correction rate was 37.2%±10.9% (11.9%－51.2%) and the total coronal correction rate was 61.9%±12.6%(26.9%-79.0%). The average kyphosis angle before traction was 106.9°±29.2°(54°－163°), and it was significantly decreased in post-traction [63.1°±17.1°(32°－92°)] and post-surgery [39.0°±16.8°(10°－68°)](P < 0.05). The traction's sagittal correction rate was 40.0%±10.7%(16.7%－55.5%) and the total sagittal correction rate was 64.3%±10.7%(49.0%－87.5%). The average C7PL-CSVL before traction was (3.2±2.8) cm, and it was significantly decreased in post-traction [(2.5±2.5) cm] (P < 0.05). The perpendicular distance of S1 and the convex point before traction was (10.5±4.8) cm, and it was significantly decreased in post-traction[(8.4±3.5) cm] (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The one-stage short-term HPT combined with two-stage surgery is a safe and effective procedure for severe spinal deformities. The clinical efficacy is satisfactory and the complication is relatively less.

Four-rod Technique Stabilization after Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO) for the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Hyperkyphosis Secondary to Pott Disease: A Two-Year Follow-Up Case Report

Pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) is a powerful tool for themanagement of sagittal misalignment. However, this procedure has a high rate of implant failure, particularly rod breakages. The four-rod technique diminishes this complication in the lumbar spine. The aim of the present study is to provide a case report regarding PSO and fourrod technique stabilization in the treatment of short-angle hyperkyphosis in the thoracolumbar (TL) junction. The authors describe the case of a patient with TL hyperkyphosis secondary to spinal tuberculosis treated with L1 PSO and fixation with a four-rod technique. There were no major surgical complications. The self-reported quality of life questionnaires (the Short-Form Health Survey 36 [SF-36] and the Oswestry disability index) and radiological parameters were assessed preoperatively, as well as 6, 12 and 24 months after surgery, and they showed considerable and sustained improvements in pain control and quality of life. No hardware failure was observed at the two-year follow-up.

A biomechanical study on proximal junctional kyphosis following long-segment posterior spinal fusion

Posterior long-segment spinal fusion may lead to proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK). The present study sought to identify the appropriate fusion levels required in order to prevent PJK using finite element analysis. A finite element model was constructed based on the whole-spine computed tomography findings of a healthy adult. Nine commonly used posterior spinal fusion methods were selected. Stress on the annulus fibrosis fibers, the posterior ligamentous complex, and the vertebrae after various spinal fusions in the upright position were compared. This study was divided into two groups: non-fusion and fusion. In the former, the stress between the T10 and the upper thoracic vertebrae was higher. Comparing thoracic and lumbar segments in the fusion group, the peak stress values of the upper instrumented vertebrae (UIV) were mainly observed in T2 and L2 whilst those of the UIV+1 were observed in T10 and L2. After normalization, the peak stress values of the UIV and UIV+1 were located in T2 and L2. Similarly, the peak stress values of the annulus fibrosus at the upper adjacent level were on T10 and L2 after normalization. However, the peak stress values of the interspinal/supraspinal complex forces were concentrated on T11, T12, and L1 after normalization whilst the peak stress value of the pedicle screw was on T2. Controversy remains over the fusion of T10, and this study simulated testing conditions with gravitational loading only. However, further assessment is needed prior to reaching definitive conclusions.

Cobalt chromium-Titanium rods versus Titanium-Titanium rods for treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis; which type of rod has better postoperative outcomes?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE; Compare the outcome of spinal deformity correction between Ti-Ti and CrCo-Ti rods for the treatment of spinal Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) using rods mentioned with all pedicle screws and translation technique. METHOD; 59 patients operated for spinal deformity (Lenke 1 or 2) AIS. The patients were divided into two groups by random allocation using Ti-Ti rods (n = 29) and CrCo-Ti rods (n = 30) and the alone difference among them in the surgical procedure was rod material (Ti-Ti or CrCo-Ti rods) and finally, radiological outcomes were compared preoperatively, postoperatively and at last follow-up for 12 months. RESULTS; Patients' main curve correction after surgical procedure regardless type of rod was 48.95±11.04 (13-75) degree. Success rate of spinal deformity correction following surgical procedure regardless of type of administered rod was 86.76 ± 11.30 percent (62.5-100%). Mean of deformity correction rate was 91.49±10.67% using CrCo-Ti rods versus 81.86±9.88% using Ti-Ti rods (P-value=0.01). Angle change was 3.29±6.60 for kyphosis angle and 0.59±7.76 for lordosis angle. Rate of main curve correction was not significantly different considering patients' gender (P-value0.657). Main curve correction success rate was in association with patients' age and type of rod (P-value=0.054, r=-1.863 and P-value=0.001, r=8.865 respectively). CONCLUSION; CrCo-Ti rods have the ability to produce higher correction rates in AIS compared to Ti-Ti rod of the same diameter. CrCo-Ti rods provide significant and stable spinal correction, especially in correction of main curve. This rate was associated with patients' age and type of rod administered but not gender.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Comparar o resultado da correção da deformidade da coluna vertebral com ligas de Ti-Ti e CrCo-Ti para o tratamento da Escoliose Idiopática do Adolescente (EIA) na coluna usando as ligas mencionadas com todos os parafusos pediculares e técnica de tradução. MÉTODO: 59 pacientes operados por EIA com deformidade da coluna vertebral (Lenke 1 ou 2). Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos por alocação aleatória usando ligas de Ti-Ti (n = 29) e ligas de CrCo-Ti (n = 30) e a única diferença entre eles no procedimento cirúrgico foi o material da liga (ligas de Ti-Ti ou CrCo-Ti) e, finalmente, resultados radiológicos foram comparados no pré-operatório, pós-operatório e no último retorno por 12 meses. RESULTADOS: A correção da curva principal do paciente após o procedimento cirúrgico, independentemente do tipo de liga, foi de 48,95±11,04 (13-75) graus. A taxa de sucesso da correção da deformidade da coluna vertebral após o procedimento cirúrgico, independentemente do tipo de liga administrada, foi de 86,76 ± 11,30% (62,5-100%). A média da taxa de correção da deformidade foi de 91,49±10,67% usando ligas de CrCo-Ti e 81,86±9,88% usando ligas de Ti-Ti (valor de P = 0,01). A mudança de ângulo foi de 3,29±6,60 para o ângulo de cifose e de 0,59±7,76 para o ângulo de lordose. A taxa de correção da curva principal não foi significativamente diferente considerando o sexo dos pacientes (Valor de P 0,657). A taxa de sucesso da correção da curva principal foi associada à idade do paciente e ao tipo de liga (valor de P=0,054, r=-1,863 e valor de P=0,001, r=8,865, respectivamente). CONCLUSÃO: As ligas de CrCo-Ti têm a capacidade de produzir taxas de correção mais altas em EIA em comparação com a liga de Ti-Ti do mesmo diâmetro. As ligas de CrCo-Ti fornecem uma correção espinhal significativa e estável, especialmente na correção da curva principal. Essa taxa foi associada à idade e ao tipo de liga administrada, mas não ao sexo.

Aspectos quirúrgicos en deformidades congénitas de la columna vertebral: clínico y radiológico / Surgical aspects in congenital spinal deformities: clinical and radiological

El tratamiento quirúrgico de las deformidades congénitas de la columna vertebral ha evolucionado en los últimos años desde fusiones in situ, hemiepifisiodesis hasta hemivertebrectomía y sustracción pedicular. En la actualidad no hay concenso cual es el procedimiento idóneo. Objetivo: Determinar la eficacia y utilidad de la Hemivertebrectomía y Sustracción Pedicular de los pacientes con Escoliosis Congénita y Cifoescoliosis. Métodos: se estudiaron 18 pacientes intervenidos en el período de enero 2013- diciembre del 2014, en un análisis estadístico retrospectivo. En 12 (66%) pacientes se realizó hemivertebrectomía y a 6 (33%) pacientes sustracción pedicular. Se evaluó edad, sexo, tipo de defecto, grado de corrección, niveles de resección y fusión, evolución neurológica, pérdida de sangre, tiempo quirúrgico y complicaciones. Resultados: se observó un ángulo de Cobb preoperatorio de 46º con escoliosis y 8 casos con ángulo de cifosis de 75º. Los porcentajes de corrección promedio de la escoliosis y la cifosis fueron 59 y 60% respectivamente, y el ángulo en el postoperatorio fue de 23º y 45º. La resección de la hemivertebra fue en un nivel (75%), dos niveles (33%). Se presentaron complicaciones en 8 pacientes, fístula de LCR, infección de la herida, pseudoartrosis, con pérdida de sangre de 528 ml, tiempo quirúrgico de 8 horas, y fusión 70%. Conclusiones: la hemivertebrectomía y la sustracción pedicular, constituyen una alternativa que permiten la corrección de la deformidad y estabilidad de la columna(AU)

Surgical treatment of congenital deformities of the spine has evolved in recent years from mergers in situ, hemiepiphysiodesis to hemivertebrectomy and pedicle subtraction. At present there is no consensus on the appropriate procedure. Objective: To determine the effectiveness and usefulness of the Hemivertebrectomía and Subtraction Pedicular of patients with congenital scoliosis and Kyphoscoliosis. Methods: in a retrospective statistical analysis 18 patients treated in the period January 2013-December 2014, were studied. In 12 (66%) patients a hemivertebrectomy was performed and a pedicle subtraction was performed on the other 6 (33%) patients. Age, sex, type of defect, degree of correction, resection and fusion levels, neurologic outcome, blood loss, operative time and complications were evaluated. Results: The preoperative Cobb angle of 46º with scoliosis and 8 cases with kyphosis angle of 75 ° were observed. The percentages of average correction of scoliosis and kyphosis were 59% and 60% respectively, and the postoperatively angle was 23º and 45º. Hemivertebra resection was on a level (75%); two levels (33%). There were complications in 8 patients, fistula LCR, wound infection, nonunion, with blood loss of 528 ml, operating time of 8 hours, and 70% merger. Conclusions: hemivertebrectomy pedicle subtraction are an alternative that allows the correction of the deformity and column stability(AU)

Montagens curtas com instrumentação do nível fracturado e moldagem in situ no tratamento das fracturas tipo burst da coluna toracolombar / Short-segment fixation of thoracolumbar burst fractures using pedicle fixation at the level of the fracture and in situ bending / Montajes cortas con instrumentación del nivel fracturado y molde in situ en el tratamiento de las fracturas tipo burst de la columna toracolumbar

OBJECTIVO: Avaliação dos resultados clínicos e radiográficos do tratamento cirúrgico de fracturas tipo burst da coluna toracolombar por fixação posterior curta, com instrumentação do nível fracturado e moldagem in situ. MÉTODOS: Entre Novembro de 2007 e Janeiro de 2009, foram seleccionados pacientes que sofreram fractura da coluna toracolombar tipo burst a um nível, com presença de instabilidade neurológica ou mecânica, submetidos a fixação posterior curta com instrumentação do nível fracturado e moldagem in situ. Foi realizada avaliação radiográfica e clínica no pré-operatório, no pós-operatório imediato e, pelo menos, um ano após a cirurgia. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 12 pacientes com uma média de idades de 39,1 anos. O seguimento médio foi de 14,5 meses. Um paciente abandonou a consulta aos dois meses, e dois não compareceram à consulta de avaliação clínica. Dois pacientes apresentavam défices neurológicos à entrada (Frankel B). Obtivemos uma melhoria da angulação vertebral de 14,2º, da deformidade cifótica de 11,2º e 27,2 por cento de recuperação da altura vertebral anterior. Ao tempo de seguimento final, verificaram-se perdas de 2,7º, 3,8º e 6,1 por cento, respectivamente. Registou-se um Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) médio de 6,2 e uma Visual Analogic Scale (VAS) de 1,6. Os dois pacientes com lesões neurológicas melhoraram para um nível D de Frankel. Não se observou qualquer caso de desmontagem ou falência do material. CONCLUSÕES: A instrumentação do nível da fractura aumenta a rigidez da montagem, protegendo a vértebra fracturada de cargas anteriores, garantindo um ponto de fixação adicional que permite uma melhor correcção por moldagem in situ. Os resultados obtidos, radiográficos e clínicos, são bons e mantêm-se ao longo do tempo.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of clinical and radiographic results of the surgical treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures with short posterior fixation, including the fractured vertebra and in situ bending. METHODS: From November 2007 to January 2009, the authors reviewed patients with traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures of a single vertebral level, with neurological or mechanical instability, and surgically treated with short posterior fixation including the fractured level and in situ bending. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed before, immediately after surgery, and at least at one year after surgery. RESULTS: Twelve patients were included with an average age of 39.1 years. The average follow-up was 14.5 months. One patient was lost to followup at two months, and two were lost to clinical evaluation. Two patients presented with neurological deficits (Frankel B).We achieved an improvement of 14.2º of vertebral angulation, 11.2º of kyphotic deformity and a restoration of 27.2 percent of anterior vertebral height. At final follow up 2.7º, 3.8º and 6.1 percent were lost, respectively. We obtained an average Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) of 6.2 and a Visual Analogic Scale (VAS) of 1.6. The two patients with neurological deficits improved to a level D of Frankel. There was no instrumentation failure. CONCLUSION: Segmental fixation with instrumentation of the level of the fracture increases construct stiffness and gives additional vertebral body protection from anterior loads, achieving an additional point of fixation that allows a better kyphosis correction by in situ bending. Our clinical and radiographic results are good and long-lasting.

OBJETIVO: evaluación de los resultados clínicos y radiológicos del tratamiento quirúrgico de fracturas tipo burst de la columna toracolumbar por fijación posterior corta, con instrumentación del nivel fracturado y molde in situ. MÉTODOS: entre Noviembre de 2007 y Enero de 2009, fueron seleccionados pacientes que sufrieron fractura de la columna toracolumbar tipo burst a un nivel, con presencia de inestabilidad neurológica o mecánica, sometidos a la fijación posterior corta con instrumentación del nivel fracturado y molde in situ. Se realizó evaluación radiográfica y clínica en el pre operatorio, en el postoperatorio inmediato y por lo menos un año después de la cirugía. RESULTADOS: fueron incluidos 12 pacientes con un promedio de edad de 39.1 años. El seguimiento promedio fue de 14.5 meses. Un paciente abandonó la consulta a los dos meses, y dos no comparecieron a la consulta de evaluación clínica. Dos pacientes presentaron déficits neurológicos a la entrada (Frankel B). Obtuvimos una mejoría del ángulo vertebral de 14.2º, de la deformidad cifótica de 11.2º y el 27.2 por ciento de recuperación de la altura vertebral anterior. Al tiempo de seguimiento final, se verificaron pérdidas de 2.7º, 3.8º y el 6.1 por ciento, respectivamente. Se registró un Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) promedio de 6.2 y una Escala Analógica Visual (VAS) de 1.6. Los dos pacientes con lesiones neurológicas mejoraron para un nivel D de Frankel. No se observó cualquier caso de desmontaje o falencia del material. CONCLUSIONES: la instrumentación del nivel de la fractura aumenta la rigidez del molde, protegiendo la vértebra fracturada de cargas anteriores, garantizando un punto de fijación adicional que permite una mejor corrección por molde in situ. Los resultados obtenidos, tanto los radiográficos cuanto los clínicos, son buenos y se mantienen a lo largo del tiempo.

Avaliação da redução por ligamentotaxia nas fraturas toracolombares tipo explosão / Evaluation of the reduction by ligamentotaxis in thoracolumbar burst fractures / Evaluación de la reducción por ligamentotaxia en las fracturas toracolumbares tipo explosión

Avaliar a correção da cifose, da altura do corpo vertebral e da redução dos fragmentos retropulsados nas fraturas toracolombares tipo explosão por ligamentotaxia. MÉTODOS: estudo retrospectivo avaliando um total de 238 pacientes com fraturas toracolombares tipo explosão do grupo A3 pela classificação de Magerl et al., dos quais 63 deles elegíveis para a pesquisa. Todos foram tratados com fixador interno pedicular e tinham imagens radiográficas e tomográficas pré e pós-operatórias. RESULTADOS: No estudo, foi constatada, no pós-operatório imediato, uma correção da cifose vertebral no local da fratura de 87 por cento, com correção de 51 por cento na altura do corpo vertebral e redução de 40 por cento dos fragmentos retropulsados intracanal. CONCLUSÕES: o uso de fixador interno por via posterior permite, ao realizar ligamentotaxia, a restauração da altura do corpo vertebral fraturado, do alinhamento sagital da coluna e descompressão do canal espinhal, minimizando as comorbidades em relação à cirurgia pela via anterior e à laminectomia para descompressão do canal.

To evaluate the correction of kyphosis, of the vertebral body height and the reduction of the retropulsed fragments in the thoracolumbar burst fractures by means of ligamentotaxis. METHODS: retrospective study evaluating a total of 238 patients with thoracolumbar A3 burst fractures based on the classification by Magerl et al., of which 63 were eligible to the research. All patients had been treated with pedicular internal fixation and had previous and postoperative radiographs and computed tomographic images. RESULTS: the study evidenced an immediate postoperative correction of vertebral kyphosis in the fracture site in 87 percent of the cases, with correction of 51 percent in the vertebral body height and reduction of 40 percent the intra-canal retropulsed fragments. CONCLUSIONS: the use of internal fixation by anterior approach allows, through ligamentotaxis, the restoration of the height of the vertebral body fracture, of the sagittal alignment of the column and spinal canal decompression, thus minimizing the comorbidities in relation to the surgery by anterior approach and laminectomy to canal decompression.

Evaluar la corrección de la cifosis, de la altura del cuerpo vertebral y de la reducción de los fragmentos retro pulsados en las fracturas toracolumbares tipo explosión por ligamentotaxia. MÉTODOS: estudio retrospectivo evaluando un total de 238 pacientes con fracturas toracolumbares tipo explosión del Grupo A3 por la clasificación de Magerl et al., de los cuales 63 de ellos fueron elegidos para la investigación. Todos fueron tratados con fijador interno pedicular y tenían imágenes radiográficas y de tomografías pre y postoperatorias. RESULTADOS: en el estudio, se constató en el postoperatorio inmediato una corrección de la cifosis vertebral en el local de la fractura de 87 por ciento con corrección de 51 por ciento en la altura del cuerpo vertebral, y una reducción de 40 por ciento de los fragmentos retro pulsados intracanal. CONCLUSIONES: el uso del fijador interno por vía posterior permite, al realizar ligamentotaxia, la restauración de la altura del cuerpo vertebral fracturado, del alineamiento sagital de la columna y descompresión del canal espinal minimizando la comorbidad en relación a la cirugía por vía anterior y la laminectomía para descompresión del canal.

Correção de cifose secundária à mielomeningocele através de osteotomia vertebral / Spinal osteotomy for kyphosis correction in myelomeningocele

Introdução: A mielomeningocele é uma afecção que com frequência evolui com deformidade vertebral, sendo a cifose secundária à mielomeningocele uma manifestação grave e que compromete a qualidade de vida do paciente. Há dificuldade para manter o tronco equilibrado o exige apoio das mãos; além disso, há lesões de pele recorrentes no ápice da deformidade e dificuldade para adaptação em cadeiras de rodas. Portanto, a correção cirúrgica da deformidade é necessária. O tratamento cirúrgico possui uma ampla variedade de técnicas descritas. Relato do caso: Realizou-se neste estudo uma osteotomia vertebral através de acesso único posterior, associada à vertebrectomia com fixação pedicular e haste de ancoragem distal no forame sacral em uma criança de 10 anos de idade portadora de mielomeningocele de nível torácico. Obteve-se correção significativa da deformidade inicial, com regressão de 110 para menos de 15º Cobb, com melhora significativa do aspecto funcional e estético, reestabelecimento de tronco ereto e independência para utilização das mãos por parte da paciente para práticas de atividade de vida adaptadas. Discussão: A osteotomia vertebral através de acesso único posterior, associada à vertebrectomia e artrodese ampla para correção de cifose secundária à mielomeningocele, é um procedimento tecnicamente complexo, porém é uma possibilidade viável para pacientes com grave comprometimento vertebral. Conclusão: A correção através da osteotomia vertebral se mostrou eficaz na correção da deformidade para o reequilíbrio da coluna vertebral.

Introduction: Myelomeningocele is a condition that often evolves with vertebral deformity; the secondary kyphosis that follows from myelomeningocele is a serious condition and compromises the patient?s quality of life. There is difficulty to maintain the torso balance requires hand support; there are also recurrent skin lesions when the deformity is aggravated, and a difficulty of adaption to wheelchairs. Therefore, surgical correction of the deformity is required. There is a wide variety of described techniques for surgical treatment. Case report: In this study we carried out a vertebral osteotomy through the unique posterior access associated to vertebrectomy with pedicular fixation and distal anchorage implant on the sacral foramen of a 10-year-old child with myelomeningocele of toracic level. We have obtained significant correction of the initial deformity with decrease from 110 to less than 15º Cobb, with sensible improvement of functional and aesthetic aspects, reestablishment of the erected torso and independence of the patient?s hands for adapted daily practices. Discussion: Vertebral osteotomy through unique posterior access associated to vertebrectomy and arthrodesis for correction of kyphosis following from myelomeningocele is a technically complex procedure; nevertheless it is a viable possibility for patients with a serious vertebral condition. Conclusion: Vertebral osteotomy has shown to be efficient in vertebral deformity correction, restoring equilibrium.

Treatment of thoracolumbar vertebrate fracture by transpedicular morselized bone grafting in vertebrae for spinal fusion and pedicle screw fixation / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

To enhance the fusion of graft bone in thoracolumbar vertebrae and minimize the postoperative loss of correction, short-segment pedicle screw fixation was reinforced with posterior moselizee bone grafting in vertebrae for spinal fusion in patients with thoracrolumbar vertebrate fractures. Seventy patients with thoracrolumbar vertebrate fractures were treated by short-segment pedicle screw fixation and were randomly divided into two groups. Fractures in group A (n=20) were reinforced with posterior morselized bone grafting in vertebrae for spinal fusion, while patients group B (n=50) did not receive the morselized bone grafting for bone fusion. The two groups were compared in terms of kyphotic deformity, anterior vertebral height, instrument failure and neurological functions after the treatment. Frankel grading system was used for the evaluation of neurological evaluation and Denis scoring scale was employed for pain assessment. The results showed that the kyphosis correction was achieved in both group A and group B (group A: 6.4 degree; group B: 5.4 degree)/ At the end of follow-up, kyphosis correction was maintained in group A but lost in group B (P=0.0001). Postoperatively, greater anterior height was achieved in group A than in group B (P<0.01). During follow-up study, anterior vertebral height was maintained only in Group A (P<0.001). Both group A and group B showed good Denis pain scores (P1 and P2) but group A outdid group B in terms of control of severe and constant pain (P4 and P5). By Frankel criteria, the changes in neurological functions in group A was better than those of group B (P<0.001). It is concluded that reinforcement of short-segment pedicle fixation with morselized bone grafting for the treatment of patients with thoracolumbar vertebrae fracture could achieve and maintain kyphosis correction, and it may also increase and maintain anterior vertebral height. Morselized bone grafting in vertebrae offers immediate spinal stability in patients with thoracolumbar vertebrate fractures, decreases the instrument failure and provides better postoperative pain control than without the morselized bone grafting.

Kyphoplasty: chances and limits.

Kyphoplasty provides a minimal-invasive surgical technique for the cement augmentation of vertebral bodies following osteoprotic compression fractures or malignant processes. Kyphoplasty has been developed as an advancement of vertebroplasty. Both procedures feature high-success rates in terms of reliable and lasting reduction of pain. Advantages of kyphoplasty over vertebroplasty are to be seen in the possibility of deformity correction as well as in a decreased risk of cement leakage, which represents the most important source for clinical complications. Long-term experiences with the effect of cementing vertebral bodies are sparse. Thus indications and possibilities have to be judged realistically. Conditions, which have to be considered before performing kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty include age of the patient, age of the fracture, degree of deformation and additional degenerative changes of the spine. This article summarizes the present research and literature as well as indications and contraindications and is thought to provide guidelines for the aforementioned decision-making processes.

Single stage osteotomy for congenital lumbar spine deformities

This study included 15 patients who had congenital spinal deformities due to hemi-vertebrae in the lumbar spine. The average age at surgery was 15 years. The mean preoperative Cobb angle for scoliosis was 57.7 degrees [ranged from 15-90 degrees] and that for kyphosis was 53.2 degrees [ranged from 9-118 degrees]. These patients had a single staged spinal osteotomy with posterior excision of the hemi-vertebra. The patients were instrumented and fused. Postoperatively, the index angle was 25.3 degrees, resulting in an average correction of 56% and the kyphosis was corrected to an angle of 27.9 degrees [ranged from 9-63 degrees]. The patients were followed up for an average of 28 months. There were no neurological complications and the complications were acceptable