Research progress of different minimally invasive spinal decompression in lumbar spinal stenosis / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To review the application and progress of different minimally invasive spinal decompression in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).@*METHODS@#The domestic and foreign literature on the application of different minimally invasive spinal decompression in the treatment of LSS was extensively reviewed, and the advantages, disadvantages, and complications of different surgical methods were summarized.@*RESULTS@#At present, minimally invasive spinal decompression mainly includes microscopic bilateral decompression, microendoscopic decompression, percutaneous endoscopic lumbar decompression, unilateral biportal endoscopy, and so on. Compared with traditional open surgery, different minimally invasive spinal decompression techniques can reduce the operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative pain of patients, thereby reducing hospital stay and saving treatment costs.@*CONCLUSION@#The indications of different minimally invasive spinal decompression are different, but there are certain advantages and disadvantages. When patients have clear surgical indications, individualized treatment plans should be formulated according to the symptoms and signs of patients, combined with imaging manifestations.

Solitary Dorsal Intramedullary Schwanomma ­ A Rare Lesion

Intramedullary schwanommas are rare, and most cases are reported in cervical region. Less than 20 dorsal intramedullary schwanommas have been reported till date in literature. This is due to their cell of origin, the Schwann cell, which is not normally found within the parenchyma of the brain and spinal cord; therefore it is not surprising that these lesions are rare. We report a rare solitary dorsal intramedullary schwanomma in a young adult patient who presented with paraplegia.

A case-control study:the clinical efficacy of total laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation and single open-door laminoplasty for cervical spinal cord injury without fracture and dislocation / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the clinical effects of total laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation and single open-door laminoplasty in the treatment of cervical spinal cord injury without fracture and dislocation.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 75 patients with cervical spinal cord injury without fracture and dislocation treated from December 2014 to April 2020 were retrospectively analyzed, including 65 males and 10 females, aged from 33 to 83 years old with an average of (60.1±11.4) years. According to surgical method, the patients were divided into observation group (36 cases) and control group (39 cases). The observation group was treated with C3-C6 single open-door laminoplasty. In the control group, the C3-C6 whole lamina was opened by "uncovering", and the lateral mass screw was fixed and fused. The general conditions including operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay and complications such as axial pain, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, postoperative C5 nerve palsy were recorded. Visual analogue scale(VAS), Nurick pain scale, Japanese Orthopaedic Association(JOA) scores and American Spinal Injury Association(AISA) injury scale were used to evaluate the improvement of clinical symptoms and related functional recovery 12 months after operation.@*RESULTS@#There were no statistically significant differences in operation time, intraoperative blood loss and hospital stay between two groups(P>0.05). There were statistically significant differences in JOA, VAS, ASIA and Nurick scores of the all patients between 12 months after surgery and before surgery (P<0.05), and there was no significant difference between groups. There was significant difference in the incidence of C5 nerve root palsy and axial pain between two groups(P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in the complications of cerebrospinal fluid leakage between two groups (P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Total laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation and single open-door laminoplasty in treating cervical spinal cord injury without fracture and dislocation can obtain satisfactory results in restoring nerve function, alleviating pain and improving daily behavior, but single open-door laminoplasty has the advantages of less trauma and low incidence of complications.

Buckling of the Ligamentum Flavum as a Rare Complication of Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion: A Case Report

Introduction and Importance Neurological deterioration due to buckling of the ligamentum flavum (LF) is an uncommon complication after anterior cervical corpectomy or discectomy with fusion. Case Presentation In this report, we present the case of a 66-year-old male who underwent anterior cervical partial corpectomy of C5 and discectomy of prolapsed C5- C6 with fusion. Postsurgery, the patient displayed signs of neurological deterioration. Upon immediate cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), posterior canal stenosis and severe compression with cord signal due to LF buckling were detected. A posterior laminectomy procedure and canal decompression at the C5-C6 level with bone fusion were performed. Clinical Discussion Patient presented with walking difficulty, then walking disability, followed by bilateral upper and lower limb paresthesia with burning sensation. Examination showed ⅘ muscle strength in both handgrips. Further investigation showed brisk deep tendon reflexes, positive Hoffman sign unilaterally, equivocal Babinski sign, and progressive quadriparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed mild and diffuse building of some cervical discs, with spinal cord progression. We performed an anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF); a titanium mesh with plates and screws was used for fusion, with removal of a calcified and herniated subligamentous disc. Postoperatively, upper and lower limb strength deteriorated; immediate cervical and thoracic MRI showed LF buckling, which caused canal stenosis and severe compression. Urgent posterior laminectomy and canal decompression with bone fusion was scheduled on the same day. The patient underwent physiotherapy and regained upper and lower limb strength and his ability to walk. Conclusion This indicates the possibility of neurological deterioration as a result of LF buckling, whichmay be a result of LF thickening accompanied by hyperextension in the cervical region. In this regard, immediate imaging following signs of neurological complications after anterior cervical corpectomy or discectomy warrants early detection, which results in a better prognosis.

Candida Tropicalis Spondylodiscits in an Immunocompetent Host: A Case Report and Literature Review

Background Fungal spondylodiscitis is not common but should be suspected in some cases. Candida tropicalis infections are being more frequently diagnosed due to some factors related to the microorganism. Case Description A C. tropicalis spondylodiscitis is described in a 72-year-old man who was treated with a combination of echinocandin (micafungin) and surgery. Conclusion The presence of some risk factors should promptly raise the suspicion of fungal spondylodiscitis. Treatment should be instituted as early as possible for the best outcome for the patient.

Gangliocytic Paraganglioma of the Filum Terminale. A Rare Entity

Paragangliomas are rare, benign and slow-growing neuroendocrine tumors that can arise from the adrenal medulla (85­90%) or from the extra-adrenal paraganglia. In the central nervous system (CNS), they can be found at several sites, but more often at the cauda equina and filum terminale region, where they account for between 2.5 and 3.8% of total tumor cases of that region. There are only 8 cases described in the literature that mention the presence of the gangliocytic variant of this entity at the filum terminale. We present the case of a 41-year-old man with chronic lumbar pain refractory to medical treatment, without any associated neurological deficits. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an intradural, extramedullar oval lesion with regular contours and homogeneous caption of contrast at L1 level. He was submitted to surgical treatment, with complete resection of the lesion. The histological analysis revealed a gangliocytic paraganglioma of the filum terminale. At 5 years of follow-up, he remains asymptomatic and without any signs of relapse. These are lesions with an overall good prognosis with gross total resection. Although the recurrence rate is extremely low, prolonged observation is recommended due to the slow-growing nature of the tumor, being estimated that between 1 and 4% can recur even after gross total removal.

Intradural Spinal Arachnoid Cyst in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

The present case reports a 13-year-old patient with an intradural arachnoid cyst, which manifested itself with a sudden loss of strength and sensitivity in the lower and upper limbs and a severe pain in the cervical and thoracic region. On examination, a lesion displayed as an intradural hematoma; however, a laminotomy was performed and it was realized that the lesion was an arachnoid spinal cyst of the cervical-dorsal spine.

Management of degenerative cervical myelopathy - An update / Manejo da mielopatia cervical degeneratiiva - Uma atualização

SUMMARY Introduction Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in adult patients. Patients generally present with a slow, progressive neurological decline or a stepwise deterioration pattern. In this paper, we discuss the most important factors involved in the management of DCM, including a discussion about the surgical approaches. Method The authors performed an extensive review of the peer-reviewed literature addressing the aforementioned objectives. Results Although the diagnosis is clinical, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the study of choice to confirm stenosis and also to exclude the differential diagnosis. The severity the clinical symptoms of DCM are evaluated by different scales, but the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) and the Nürick scale are probably the most commonly used. Spontaneous clinical improvement is rare and surgery is the main treatment form in an attempt to prevent further neurological deterioration and, potentially, to provide some improvement in symptoms and function. Anterior, posterior or combined cervical approaches are used to decompress the spinal cord, with adjunctive fusion being commonly performed. The choice of one approach over the other depends on patient characteristics (such as number of involved levels, site of compression, cervical alignment, previous surgeries, bone quality, presence of instability, among others) as well as surgeon preference and experience. Conclusion Spine surgeons must understand the advantages and disadvantages of all surgical techniques to choose the best procedure for their patients. Further comparative studies are necessary to establish the superiority of one approach over the other when multiple options are available.

RESUMO Introdução a mielopatia cervical degenerativa (MCD) é uma das causas mais comuns de disfunção medular em adultos. Os pacientes em geral apresentam declínio neurológico lento e progressivo, ou deterioração escalonada. No presente artigo, discutimos os mais importantes fatores envolvidos no manejo da MCD, incluindo considerações sobre os aspectos relacionados à escolha da abordagem cirúrgica. Método realizou-se extensa revisão da literatura de artigos peer-reviewed relacionados ao tema. Resultados embora o diagnóstico seja realizado clinicamente, a ressonância magnética (RM) é o estudo de imagem de escolha para confirmá-lo e excluir eventuais diagnósticos diferenciais. A gravidade do quadro clínico pode ser avaliado utilizando-se diferentes escalas, como a modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA) ou a de Nürick, provavelmente as mais comuns. Uma vez que a melhora clínica espontânea é rara, a cirurgia é a principal forma de tratamento, em uma tentativa de evitar dano neurológico adicional ou deterioração e, potencialmente, aliviar alguns sintomas e melhorar a função dos pacientes. Abordagens cirúrgicas por via anterior, posterior ou combinada podem ser usadas para descomprimir o canal, concomitantemente a técnicas de fusão. A escolha da abordagem depende das características dos pacientes (número de segmentos envolvidos, local de compressão, alinhamento cervical, cirurgias prévias, qualidade óssea, presença de instabilidade, entre outras), além da preferência e experiência do cirurgião. Conclusão os cirurgiões de coluna devem compreender as vantagens e desvantagens de todas as técnicas cirúrgicas para escolher o melhor procedimento para seus pacientes. Estudos futuros comparando as abordagens são necessários para orientar o cirurgião quando múltiplas opções forem possíveis.

Quiste aracnoidal cervical anterior en edad pediátrica / Anterior cervical arachnoid cyst in pediatric age

Los quistes aracnoidales espinales son lesiones poco comunes en la población pediátrica. La mayor parte de ellos, se ubican en los segmentos dorsales y la posición anterior respecto a la médula es rara en todos los casos. Si bien su patogenia no está aclarada, se han asociado a defectos del tubo neural y traumas previos. Clínicamente, pueden presentarse con síndrome medular que en ocasiones pueden empeorar con cambios posturales. El tratamiento, puede ser conservador o quirúrgico, el que está indicado en presencia de síntomas neurológicos secundarios a compresión medular, siendo el abordaje posterior el más frecuentemente utilizado. El propósito de la cirugía es la resección total o en su defecto, la fenestración del quiste para comunicarlo al espacio subaracnoídeo. Una potencial complicación de la vía posterior, es la herniación medular durante la durotomía, secundaria al efecto compresivo del quiste, la cual podría aumentar la morbilidad neurológica en el período postoperatorio. Se presentan 2 casos consecutivos en edad pediátrica con quistes intradurales espinales anteriores, el primero en la región cervico-dorsal cuya cirugía se vio dificultada por la presencia de herniación medular transdural y un segundo caso con un quiste exclusivamente cervical, en que mediante una punción lateral del quiste guiada por ecografía previo a la durotomía, se logró resecar la lesión sin esta complicación.

Spinal arachnoid cysts are rare lesions in pediatric population. Most of them are located posteriorly in dorsal segments ananterior position is rare. Although its pathogenesis has not been elucidated, they have been associated with neural tube defects and the presence of previous spinal traumas. Clinically, they present with a spinal cord syndrome which can sometimes worsen with postural changes. Treatment may be conservative or surgical, the latter indicated by the presence of neurological symptoms secondary to spinal cord compression, with the posterior approach being the most frequently used. The purpose of surgery is total or partial resection, or fenestration of the cyst to subarachnoid space. A potential intra-surgical complication of posterior approach in anterior cyst is spinal cord herniation during durotomy, secondary to the compressive effect of the cyst, which could increase neurological morbidity in the postoperative period (1 case with mortality is described in the literature). We present 2 consecutive cases in pediatric patients with previous spinal intradural cysts. The first in the cervico-dorsal region whose surgery was hampered by the presence of medullary transdural herniation and second case with an exclusively cervical cyst that through a side puncture cyst guided by ultrasound prior to durotomy, it was possible to resect the lesion without this complication.

Unilateral laminotomy for bilateral microdecompression of stenosis of the lumbar canal / Laminotomia unilateral para microdescompressão bilateral de estenose do canal lombar / Laminotomía unilateral para microdescompresión bilateral de la estenosis del canal lumbar

With the aging of the world population, the treatment of stenosis of the lumbar canal has become an important issue in addressing degenerative diseases of the spine. The prevalence of this disease tends to increase as the number of surgeries and the impact on health care costs. This paper aims to describe in detail the technique of unilateral laminotomy for bilateral microdecompression (ULBM) of stenosis of the lumbar canal (LSC) and current clinical results, including their advantages, disadvantages and common complications, based on the available literature. Important studies have shown evidence that surgical treatment for LSC is more effective than the conservative, but without evaluating ULBM. Several studies on ULBM have been conducted since the 90s, showing the results of this technique, however, most of these are case series, retrospective studies or cohorts without proper control group or with weak statistical analysis to prove some evidence. A double-blind randomized clinical trial was found, but with short follow-up. We conclude that studies are needed with more solid evidence to prove the effectiveness of ULBM despite the clinical results being similar to those of classical surgery found in the literature.

Com o envelhecimento da população mundial, o tratamento da estenose do canal lombar tornou-se uma questão importante na abordagem das doenças degenerativas da coluna. A prevalência dessa patologia tende a aumentar, assim como o número de cirurgias e o impacto sobre os custos da saúde. Este trabalho tem como objetivo descrever com detalhes a técnica de laminotomia unilateral para microdescompressão bilateral (LUMB) de estenose do canal lombar (ECL) e os resultados clínicos atuais, incluindo suas vantagens, desvantagens e complicações comuns, com base na literatura disponível. Estudos importantes demonstraram evidências de que o tratamento cirúrgico da ECL é mais eficaz do que o conservador, porém sem avaliar a LUMB. Vários trabalhos sobre LUMB foram realizados desde a década de 90, mostrando os resultados dessa técnica, porém, a maioria consiste em séries de casos, estudos retrospectivos, ou coortes sem grupo controle adequado ou com análises estatísticas fracas para provar alguma evidência. Foi encontrado um ensaio clínico duplo cego randomizado, porém com período curto de acompanhamento. Conclui-se que são necessários trabalhos com evidências mais sólidas para comprovar a eficácia da LUMB, apesar de seus resultados clínicos serem semelhantes aos da cirurgia clássica encontrados na literatura especializada.

Con el envejecimiento de la población mundial, el tratamiento de la estenosis del canal lumbar se ha convertido en un tema importante en el tratamiento de las enfermedades degenerativas de la columna vertebral. La prevalencia de esta enfermedad tiende a aumentar y también el número de operaciones y el impacto en los costos de salud. Este trabajo tiene por meta describir en detalle la técnica de laminotomía unilateral para microdescompresión bilateral (LUMB) de la estenosis del canal lumbar (ECL) y los resultados clínicos actuales, incluyendo sus ventajas, desventajas y complicaciones comunes, con base en la literatura disponible. Importantes estudios han mostrado evidencia de que el tratamiento quirúrgico para la ECL es más eficaz que el conservador, pero sin evaluar LUMB. Varios trabajos se han realizado sobre LUMB desde los años 90, los cuales demuestran los resultados de esta técnica, sin embargo, la mayoría de ellos son series de casos, estudios retrospectivos o cohortes sin grupo de control adecuado o con un débil análisis estadístico para probar algunas evidencias. Se encontró un ensayo clínico aleatorizado y doble ciego, pero con seguimiento corto. Se concluye que son necesarios trabajos que presenten evidencia más sólida para demostrar la eficacia de la LUMB, a pesar de sus resultados clínicos muy semejantes a los resultados de la cirugía clásica encontrados en la literatura especializada.

Finite Element Analysis for Comparison of Spinous Process Osteotomies Technique with Conventional Laminectomy as Lumbar Decompression Procedure

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the biomechanical behavior of the lumbar spine after posterior decompression with the spinous process osteotomy (SPiO) technique or the conventional laminectomy (CL) technique using a finite element (FE) model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three validated lumbar FE models (L2-5) which represented intact spine and two decompression models using SPiO and CL techniques at the L3-4 segment were developed. In each model, the ranges of motion, the maximal von Mises stress of the annulus fibrosus, and the intradiscal pressures at the index segment (L3-4) and adjacent segments (L2-3 and L4-5) under 7.5 Nm moments were analyzed. Facet contact forces were also compared among three models under the extension and torsion moments. RESULTS: Compared to the intact model, the CL and SPiO models had increased range of motion and annulus stress at both the index segment (L3-4) and the adjacent segments under flexion and torsion. However, the SPiO model demonstrated a reduced range of motion and annulus stress than the CL model. Both CL and SPiO models had an increase of facet contact force at the L3-4 segment under the torsion moment compared to that of the intact model. Under the extension moment, however, three models demonstrated a similar facet contact force even at the L3-4 model. CONCLUSION: Both decompression methods lead to postoperative segmental instability compared to the intact model. However, SPiO technique leads to better segmental stability compared to the CL technique.

Resultado del tratamiento quirúrgico de la estenosis lumbar degenerativa en el adulto mayor / Résultats du traitement chirurgical de la sténose lombaire dégénérative chez les personnes âgées / Results of surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar stenosis in the older adult

Introducción: la estenosis lumbar degenerativa en pacientes adultos mayores constituye un grave problema de salud actual. El tratamiento quirúrgico parece ser el de mejor resultado, pero presenta la disyuntiva de si a todos los pacientes que padezcan esta enfermedad se les debe tratar con igual técnica. Objetivos: mostrar los resultados obtenidos en el tratamiento quirúrgico de la estenosis lumbar degenerativa en pacientes mayores de 65 años. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo prospectivo en pacientes mayores de 65 años con diagnóstico de estenosis lumbar degenerativa, en el Centro de investigaciones en Longevidad, Envejecimiento y Salud, entre el 1 de enero de 2009 y el 1 de enero de 2011 (ambos incluidos). La serie quedó constituida por 28 pacientes. Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, sintomatología, localización, principales condiciones comorbidas, clasificación radiográfica y por resonancia magnética. Se seleccionó la técnica quirúrgica empleada atendiendo al área anatómica estenosada. Se empleó el índice de Oswestry y la escala Visual Analógica de dolor como instrumentos evaluadores. Resultados: predominó el sexo masculino (67,6 por ciento), la localización en dos niveles vertebrales, y las condiciones comorbidas cardiovasculares. El síntoma predominante mostró valores semejantes entre el dolor lumbar, el irradiado y la claudicación. El índice de Oswestry y la Escala Visual Analógica del dolor mostraron significativa mejoría en el posquirúrgico. Se obtuvo un 89,2 porciento de buenos resultados. Conclusiones: el empleo de laminectomía para las estenosis centrales y recalibraje para las de receso lateral parece ser adecuada(AU)

Introduction: degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis is a serious health problem in the older adults at present. The surgical treatment seems to attain better results, but the controversy is whether all the patients suffering the disease can be treated with this procedure or not. Objectives: to show the results of the surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis in over 65 years-old patients. Methods: a prospective and descriptive study was carried out in patients aged over 65 years and diagnosed with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis in the Center of Research on Old Age, Aging and Health from January 1st 2009 to January 1st, 2011. The series was finally made up of 28 patients. The study variables were age, sex, symptoms, location, main comorbid conditions, and classification according to radiographies and to magnetic resonance. The choice of the surgical technique depended on the stenosed anatomical area. The Oswestry Disability Index and the Analogue Visual Scale of pain were the evaluation instruments. Results: males (67.6 percent), the location of disease at two vertebral levels and comorbid cardiovascular conditions prevailed. The predominant symptom showed similar values among lumbar pain, the irradiated pain and claudication. Oswestry Disability Index and the Analog Visual Scale of pain showed the significant improvement of patient in the postsurgical period. Good results reached 89.2 perent. Conclusions: laminectomy for central stenosis and regaging for the lateral recess seem to be adequate(AU)

Introduction: des nos jours, la sténose lombaire dégénérative constitue un sérieux problème de santé chez les personnes âgées. La chirurgie paraît être le traitement le plus prometteur, mais une question se pose, est-ce que tous les patients atteints de cette maladie doivent être traités par la même technique? Objectif: le but de cette étude est de montrer les résultats obtenus avec le traitement chirurgical de la sténose lombaire dégénérative chez les personnes âgées de plus de 65 ans. Méthode: une étude descriptive prospective de patients âgés de plus de 65 ans, diagnostiqués de sténose lombaire dégénérative, a été réalisée au Centre de recherches sur la longévité, le vieillissement et la santé entre le 1e janvier 2009 et le 1e janvier 2011. La série a été conformée de 28 patients. Les variables en étude comprennent âge, sexe, symptomatologie, localisation, comorbidité, classification radiographique et RM. La technique chirurgicale a été déterminée en accord avec la localisation de la sténose; l'index d'Oswestry et l'Échelle visuelle analogique (EVA) de la douleur ont été utilisés comme instruments d'évaluation. Résultats: dans l'étude, quelques variables ont prédominé (67.6 pourcent du sexe masculin, localisation à deux niveaux vertébraux, comorbidité cardiovasculaire, irradiation de la douleur lombaire, et claudication). L'index d'Oswestry et l'Échelle visuelle analogique de la douleur ont montré une amélioration significative dans le post-chirurgical. En général, on a obtenu de très bons résultats (89.2 pourcent). Conclusions: Dans le cas de la sténose centrale et de la sténose latérale, la laminectomie et le récalibrage respectivement semblent être appropriées(AU)

A new expansive two-open-doors laminoplasty for multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy: technical report and follow-up results / Nova tecnica de laminoplastia expansiva para tratamento de mielopatia espondilotica cervical: descricao tecnica e resultados de follow-up

The laminoplasty technique was devised by Hirabayashi in 1978 for patients diagnosed with multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Objective: To describe an easy modification of Hirabayashi’s method and present the clinical and radiological results from a five-year follow-up study. Method and Results: Eighty patients had 5 levels of decompression (C3-C7), 3 patients had 6 levels of decompression (C2-T1) and 3 patients had 4 levels of decompression (C3-C6). Foraminotomies were performed in 23 cases (27%). Following Nurick`s scale, 76 patients (88%) improved, 9 (11%) had the same Nurick grade, and one patient worsened and was advised to undergo another surgical procedure. No deaths were observed. The mean surgery time was 122 min. Radiographic evaluation showed an increase in the mean sagittal diameter from 11.2 mm at pretreatment to 17.3 mm post surgery. There was no significant difference between pretreatment and post-surgery C2-C7 angles. Conclusions: This two-open-doors laminoplasty technique is safe, easy and effective and can be used as an alternative treatment for cases of multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy without instability. .

A laminoplastia é técnica clássica descrita por Hirabayashi em 1978 para descompressão do canal cervical sem utilizar prótese. A principal indicação é o tratamento da mielopatia espondilotica cervical sem instabilidade. Objetivo: Descrever modificação simples da técnica de laminoplastia clássica de Hirabayashi com resultados clínicos e radiográficos em 5 anos de acompanhamento. Resultados e Método: Foram acompanhados 86 pacientes. Em 80, foi feita descompressão por laminoplastia em 5 níveis (C3-C7); em 3, descompressão em 6 níveis (C2-T1); em 3, descompressao em 4 níveis (C3-C6). Em 23 casos (27%), foi realizada foraminotomia associada a descompressão medular. O acompanhamento dos pacientes foi feito utilizando a escala de Nurick. Em 76 pacientes (88%) houve melhora do grau de Nurick. Não houve mortalidade associada à técnica. O tempo médio do procedimento cirúrgico foi de 122 minutos. Em relação à avaliação radiográfica, houve aumento do diâmetro sagital médio do canal cervical de 11,2mm para 17,3mm. Não houve diferença estatística do ângulo C2-C7 nas avaliações antes e após o procedimento cirúrgico. Conclusão: A nova técnica de laminoplastia descrita no presente estudo foi segura, de fácil execução, efetiva, não utiliza protese e não há instabilidade do canal cervical. .

Tratamiento quirúrgico de la estenosis lumbar degenerativa del adulto mayor según la imagenología / Traitement chirurgical de la sténose lombaire dégénérative chez les personnes âgées, d'après les résultats d'imagerie / Surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar stenosis in elderly patients based on imaging findings

Introducción: la estenosis lumbar degenerativa en pacientes adultos mayores constituye un grave problema de salud actual. Objetivo: demostrar la validez del tratamiento quirúrgico de la estenosis lumbar degenerativa del adulto mayor cuando la decisión del tipo de técnica a realizar se determina por los hallazgos imagenológicos por rayos X y resonancia magnética. Métodos: se estudiaron 102 pacientes mayores de 65 años, atendidos en el Centro de investigaciones en Longevidad, Envejecimiento y Salud, entre el 1 de enero de 2002 y el 31 de diciembre de 2008, ambos incluidos. Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, localización, principales condiciones comorbidas, clasificación por rayos X y por resonancia magnética. La decisión de la técnica quirúrgica empleada estuvo en relación con los hallazgos imagenológicos, se empleó el índice de Oswestry y la escala visual analógica de dolor como instrumentos evaluadores. Las técnicas quirúrgicas fueron: liberación simple, recalibraje y laminectomía, instrumentación y fusión. Resultados: hubo predominio del sexo masculino, entre 65 y 70 años de edad con localización en dos niveles vertebrales y condiciones comorbidas cardiovasculares, el mayor número de casos se encontró en los grados 3 y 4 de Kellgren y IV y V de Pfirrmann. El índice de Oswestry y la escala visual analógica del dolor mostraron significativa mejoría a los dos años y se obtuvo el 88 por ciento de buenos resultados. Conclusiones: determinar la técnica quirúrgica a emplear según los hallazgos imagenológicos, permite obtener buenos resultados en altos porcentajes de pacientes intervenidos. La relación imagenología/técnica quirúrgica, es adecuada(AU)

Introduction: degenerative lumbar stenosis in elderly patients is a serious health problem. Objective: demonstrate the validity of the surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar stenosis in elderly patients when decision on what technique to apply is based on X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Methods: a study was conducted of 102 patients aged over 65 cared for at the Center for Research on Longevity, Aging and Health from 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2008. The variables considered were age, sex, location, main comorbid conditions, and classification based on X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging. Decision on the surgical technique to apply was based on imaging findings. The Oswestry index and the Pain Visual Analog Scale were used as evaluation instruments. The surgical techniques applied were simple release, recalibration and laminectomy, instrumentation and fusion. Results: there was a predominance of male patients in the 65-70 age group with location at two vertebral levels and cardiovascular comorbid conditions. The largest number of cases were classed as degrees 3 and 4 on Kellgren's scale, and IV and V on Pfirrmann's. The Oswestry index and the Pain Visual Analog Scale showed significant improvement at two years, and 88 percent of the results obtained were good. Conclusions: determination of the surgical technique to apply based on imaging findings makes it possible to obtain good results in a high percentage of the patients undergoing surgery. There is an appropriate relationship between imaging findings and surgical technique(AU)

Introduction: de nos jours, la sténose lombaire dégénérative chez des patients âgés constitue un problème grave de santé. Objectif: le but de cette étude es de démontrer la validité du traitement chirurgical de la sténose lombaire dégénérative chez les personnes âgées lorsque la technique à utiliser est décidée par imagerie (rayons-X et résonance magnétique). Méthodes: cent-deux patients âgés de 65 ans ont été étudiés et traités au Centre de recherches de la longévité, le vieillissement et la santé entre le 1e janvier 2002 et le 31 décembre 2008. Les variables étudiées ont compris l'âge, le sexe, la localisation, les principales conditions de comorbidité, et la classification par rayons-X et résonance magnétique. Le choix de la technique chirurgicale à utiliser a été en rapport avec les résultats d'imagerie, et les instruments d'évaluation ont compris l'indice d'Oswestry et l'échelle visuelle analogique de la douleur. Les techniques chirurgicales ont compris la libération simple, le recalibrage et la laminectomie, l'instrumentation et la fusion. Résultats: les patients du sexe masculin, âgés de 65 - 70 ans, avec une sténose localisée à deux niveaux vertébraux, une comorbidité cardiovasculaire, en grades 3 et 4 de Kellgren, et IV et V de Pfirmann en majorité, ont été les plus souvent touchés. L'indice d'Oswestry et l'échelle visuelle analogique de la douleur ont montré une amélioration significative en deux ans, et la plupart de cas a eu de bons résultats (88 pourcent). Conclusions: le choix de la technique chirurgicale selon les résultats d'imagerie permet d'atteindre de bons résultats dans un grand nombre de patients opérés. Le rapport entre l'imagerie et la technique chirurgicale est effectivement approprié(AU)

MRI Features of Spinal Epidural Angiolipomas

OBJECTIVE: To describe the MRI findings in ten patients of spinal epidural angiolipoma for differentiated diagnosis presurgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten surgically proved cases of spinal epidural angiolipomas were retrospectively reviewed, and the lesion was classified according to the MR findings. RESULTS: Ten tumors were located in the superior (n = 4), middle (n = 2), or inferior (n = 4) thoracic level. The mass, with the spindle shape, was located in the posterior epidural space and extended parallel to the long axis of the spine. All lesions contained a fat and vascular element. The vascular content, correlating with the presence of hypointense regions on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) and hyperintense signals on T2-weighted imaging, had marked enhancement. However, there were no flow void signs on MR images. All tumors were divided into two types based on the MR features. In type 1 (n = 3), the mass was predominantly composed of lipomatous tissue (> 50%) and contained only a few small angiomatous regions, which had a trabeculated or mottled appear. In type 2 (n = 7), the mass, however, was predominantly composed of vascular components (> 50%), which presented as large foci in the center of the mass. CONCLUSION: Most spinal epidural angiolipomas exhibit hyperintensity on T1WI while the hypointense region on the noncontrast T1WI indicates to be vascular, which manifests an obvious enhancement with gadolinium administration.

Hemilaminectomy for Removal of Extramedullary or Extradural Spinal Cord Tumors: Medium to Long-Term Clinical Outcomes

PURPOSE: Laminectomy is generally the treatment of choice for removal of spinal tumors. However, it has been shown that laminectomy may cause instability due to damage of posterior elements of the spinal column, which may induce subsequent kyphosis in the future. Therefore, to reduce the risk of deformity and spinal instability after laminectomy, hemilaminectomy has been used. However, the medium to long-term effects of hemilaminectomy on spinal sagittal alignment is not well understood. The present study was performed to evaluate the clinical outcomes, including spinal sagittal alignment of patients, associated with spinal cord tumors treated by surgical excision using hemilaminectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty hemilaminectomy operations at our institute for extramedullary or extradural spinal cord tumors in 19 patients were evaluated retrospectively with an average follow-up of 85 months (range, 40-131 months). Neurological condition was evaluated using the improvement ratio of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Score (JOA score) for cervical, thoracic myelopathy, or back pain, and sagittal alignment by sagittal Cobb angle of the hemilaminectomied area. RESULTS: The mean improvement ratio of neurological results was 56.7% in the cervical spine (p < 0.01, n = 10), 26.3% in the thoracic spine (not significant, n = 5), and 48.6% in the lumbar spine (NS, n = 5). The sagittal Cobb angle was 4.3 +/- 18.0degrees in the preoperative period and 5.4 +/- 17.6degrees at the latest follow-up, indicating no significant deterioration. CONCLUSION: Hemilaminectomy is useful for extramedullary or extradural spinal cord tumors in providing fair neurological status and restoration of spinal sagittal alignment in medium to long-term follow-up.

Anesthetic management in intrauterine surgery to evaluate an experimental model of myelomeningocele in non human primates (Macaca mulatta) / Anestesia em cirurgia intra-uterina para avaliar um modelo experimental de mielomeningocele em primatas não humanos (Macaca mulatta)

PURPOSE: Evaluate the anesthetic management in intrauterine surgery to induce myelomeningocele in non human primates Macaca mulatta. METHODS: A total of nine fetuses had intrauterine surgery; laminectomy was performed on them in L5 and L6. The studied variables were: maternal death, fetus death, cardiac frequency, respiratory frequency, arterial pressure, temperature, and oxygen saturation. RESULTS: No maternal or fetal deaths occurred; the only variable that was reported below the normal ranges was temperature. CONCLUSION: No maternal or fetal deaths occurred; the only variable that was reported below the normal ranges was temperature.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o manejo anestésico em cirurgia intra-uterina para induzir mielomeningocelo em primatas não humanos, Macaca mulatta. MÉTODOS: Operaram-se um total de nove fetos in útero que foram submetidos à laminectomia em L5 e L6. As variáveis a estudar foram mortes maternas ou fetais, freqüência cardíaca e respiratória, pressão arterial, temperatura e saturação de oxigênio. RESULTADOS: Não se apresentaram mortes maternas ou fetais, a temperatura se manteve abaixo dos 36°C, não tendo repercussões no bem-estar dos macacos. CONCLUSÃO: Não ocorreu nenhum óbito materno ou fetal, sendo que a única variável abaixo do normal foi a temperatura.

Viabilidade de células do sistema nervoso central fetal no tratamento da lesão medular em ratos / Viability of fetal central nervous system cells in the treatment of spinal cord injury in rats

OBJETIVOS: Propor um modelo experimental de transplante de células do sistema nervoso fetal de ratos Wistar para o sítio de lesão medular de ratos adultos que permitisse sua sobrevivência e integração para possibilitar protocolos de pesquisa que identificarão outros fatores de regeneração e recuperação funcional pós trauma raquimedular. MÉTODOS: Vinte ratos adultos foram submetidos a laminectomia, e lesão de 5mm de hemimedula realizada com auxílio de microscópio óptico. Quinze deste ratos tiveram seu sítio de lesão medular transplantado com células do sistema nervoso central de fetos de rato; os ratos foram monitorados por 2 dias e tiveram sua coluna vertebral extraída para análise histológica. RESULTADOS: Evidenciou-se que em 60 por cento dos casos as células transplantadas permaneciam viáveis no sítio da lesão e que a reação inflamatória no grupo transplantado era sempre maior que no grupo controle. CONCLUSÃO: O presente trabalho demonstrou a possibilidade de contar com o modelo de pesquisa para transplante de células fetais que permanecem viáveis 2 dias após seu implante.

OBJECTIVE: To propose an experimental model for transplantation of fetal cells from the nervous system of Wistar rats to the site of spinal cord injury in adult rats, to enable their survival and integration for research protocols that identify other factors of regeneration and functional recovery following spinal cord trauma. METHODS: Twenty adult rats were submitted to laminectomy and a 5mm incision was made, using an optical microscope, In fifteen of these rats, the site of the spinal cord lesion was transplanted with cells from the fetal rat central nervous system; the rats were monitored for two days, then the spinal cord was removed for histological analysis. RESULTS: In 60 percent of cases, the transplanted cells remained viable in the site of the lesion; the inflammatory response in the transplanted group was always greater than in the control group. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the potential use of this research model for use in the transplantation of fetal cells that remain viable two days after their implantation.

Estudo experimental da ação da metilprednisolona utilizada antes do traumatismo raquimedular em ratos Wistar / Experimental study on the action of methylprednisolone on Wistar rats before spinal cord injury

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da metilprednisolona empregada previamente ao traumatismo medular, tanto em relação aos possíveis efeitos benéficos quanto às possíveis complicações associadas. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 32 ratos Wistar, divididos em 4 grupos. Dois grupos receberam as drogas A (placebo) e B (metilprednisolona) imediatamente após a lesão. Outros 2 grupos receberam as mesmas drogas 4 horas antes da lesão. Todos foram avaliados por um período de 28 dias quanto à função locomotora e complicações associadas. RESULTADOS: Os 4 grupos foram comparados quanto ao peso e idade. Não foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos de estudos quanto às médias de peso e de idade. Na comparação entre os 4 grupos quanto às intercorrências foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significante nos óbitos (p = 0,047), onde o grupo Droga B T0 apresentou proporção de óbitos (0 por cento) significantemente menor do que a encontrada no grupo Droga B T-4 (55,6 por cento). Não houve diferença estatística entre estres grupos quanto aos índides motores e quanto às complicações (p > 0,05 em todas as comparações). CONCLUSÕES: os animais tratados com metilprednisolona quatro horas antes do trauma apresentaram um número de óbitos significativamente maior quando comparados aos ratos tratados com a mesma droga após o trauma.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of methylprednisolone used prior to spinal injury, both in relation to possible beneficial effects and to possible associated complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study subjects were 32 Wister rats, divided into 4 groups. Two groups received drugs A (placebo) and B (methylprednisolone) immediately after the injury. Another 2 groups received the same drugs 4 hours before the injury. They were all evaluated over a period of 28 days to verify locomotor function and associated complications. RESULTS: The 4 groups were compared in terms of weight and age. No statistically significant difference was found between the study groups in relation to mean weight and age. In the comparison of intercurrences among the 4 groups a statistically significant difference was found in deaths (p = 0.047), where the Drug B T-0 group exhibited a significantly lower proportion of deaths (0 percent) than that found in the Drug B T-4 group (55.6 percent). There was no statistical difference among these groups in terms of motor and complication rates (p > 0.05 in all the comparisons). CONCLUSIONS: the animals treated with methylprednisolone four hours before the injury trauma presented a significantly higher number of deaths than the rats treated with the same drug after the injury.