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.

Minimally invasive laminar lift and posterior cervical laminoplasty via the intermuscular approach: a canine model study

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a minimally invasive surgical procedure for laminar lift and posterior cervical laminoplasty via the intermuscular approach using a canine model. Methods: Six Alaskan dogs were used for developing the surgical approach. The bilateral laminae of C3-7 were cut with an ultrasonic osteotome and fixed with bilateral plates to maintain the lamina lifting and reshape a wider spinal canal. The important structures, such as ligaments, supraspinous ligaments, interspinous ligaments, and ligamentum flavum were preserved. The therapeutic effect was evaluated by preoperative and postoperative imaging results and neck mobility. Results: The surgical procedures were all successfully performed in the 6 animals. All the dogs survived well within 1 year of postoperative follow-up. The postoperative neck mobility was as good as the preoperative one. Computed tomography results showed that the anteroposterior diameter of the spinal canal was successfully enlarged and maintained well. Conclusions: The minimally invasive surgical procedure for laminar lift and posterior cervical laminoplasty via the intermuscular approach was feasible in a canine model, which might be applied in clinical practice.

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.

Surgical Treatment for Spasticity: Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy ­ Technique and Literature Review

Spasticity is amotor disorder that leads to a resistance to passive jointmovement. Cerebral palsy is the most important cause of spasticity and can be caused by several factors, including multiple gestations, alcoholism, infections, hemorrhages, drowning, and traumatic brain injuries, among others. There aremany scales that help tomeasure andmonitor the degree of impairment of these patients. The initial treatment should focus on the causal factor, such as tumors, inflammation, degenerative diseases, hydrocephalus, etc. Subsequently, the treatment of spastic musculature includes oral or intrathecal myorelaxants, spinal cord electrostimulation, neurotomies, Lissauer tract lesion, dentatotomy and selective dorsal rhizotomy. The latter is a safetechnique, possibleto beperformed inmost centers with neurosurgical support, and it is effective in the treatment of severe spasticity. In this article, the authors describe the surgical technique and conduct a review the literature.

Meta-analysis of calcium chemotherapeutic effect of anterior cervical subtotal vertebroplasty and posterior laminoplasty / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To systematically assess the efficacy of anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) versus posterior laminoplasty (LAMP) for cervical ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).@*METHODS@#PubMed and EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CBM, CNKI, Wanfang and VIP were collected from 7 databases of ACCF, LAMP from 1970 to May 2018. According to the criteria, the articles were included and independently screened by two authors. The quality of the articles was assessed by using the MINORS scale (methodological index for non randomized studies). After extracting the data from the article, the JOA score, cervical curvature, operation time, bleeding volume, excellent and good rate, recovery rate, adverse events and secondary surgery were analyzed by using Review Manager 5.3 software.@*RESULTS@#Finally, a total of 22 articles with 1 678 patients were included in this Meta-analysis, with 810 patients in ACCF group and 868 patients in LAMP group. Meta analysis results showed that the ACCF group had higher postoperative JOA scores[MD=0.63, 95%CI(0.05, 1.20), = 0.03], higher excellent rate [=1.85, 95%CI (1.14, 3.02), =0.01] and higher recovery rate [=11.90, 95%CI (5.75, 18.05), =0.000 1]. But the LAMP group has a shorter operative time [MD=52.19, 95%CI (29.36, 75.03), <0.000 01], less complications [=1.56, 95%CI (1.03, 2.35), =0.04] and less reoperations [=3.73, 95%CI (1.62, 8.57), =0.002]. There was no significant different in postoperative lordosis [MD=3.15, 95%CI(-0.14, 6.43), =0.06] and blood loss[SMD= 0.26, 95%CI(-0.05, 0.57), =0.10] between two groups.@*CONCLUSION@#The recovery of functionof ACCF group was better, but operation time, complications and reoperations of LAMP group were all better than ACCF group. There was no difference in postoperative lordosis and intraoperative blood loss between two groups. However, there are some limitations in this study. Therefore, higher quality and larger sample size clinical studies are needed to further verify.

Analysis of clinical efficacy of C expanded half lamina excision combined with unilateral open-door laminoplasty for multiple segmental cervical spinal cord compression syndrome / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the clinical efficacy of C expanded half lamina excision combined with unilateral open door laminoplasty for multiple segmental cervical spinal cord compression syndrome.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 58 patients with multiple segmental cervical spinal cord compression syndrome underwent surgical treatment between September 2014 and May 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 34 males and 24 females with a mean age of 64.4 years old (ranged from 46 to 78 years old). Among them, 28 cases received the surgery of C expanded half lamina excision combined with C-C unilateral open-door laminoplasty (improvedgroup), and 30 cases received a single C-C unilateral open-door laminoplasty (traditional group). Operation time, intraoperative blood loss, complications including C nerve root palsy and axial symptoms were compared between two groups. To evaluate the situation of the imaging indicators by measuring the space available for the spinal cord through cross sectional MRI of cervical spine at the narrowest segment of C (including intervertebral disc levels of C). Pre- and post-operative Japanese Orthopedic Association(JOA) score, Neck Disability Index(NDI) score, and improvement rate of neurological function, were recorded and analyzed between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#All the patients were followed up for 12 to 18 months with an average of(14.5±1.8) months for improved group and (14.5±1.9) months for traditional group, and no significant difference was found between the two groups (>0.05). There was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss and C nerve root palsy between the two groups (>0.05). The operation time (119±10) min vs (126±12) min and axial symptoms 7.1%(2/28) vs 26.6%(8/30) was significant difference between the two groups (0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#C expanded half lamina excision combined with unilateral open-door laminoplasty is an effective method to treat multiple segmental cervical spinal cord compression syndrome, for it can not only fully relieved spinal cord compression, but also achievedgood effect in preventing complications such as axial symptoms by reducing stripping of muscles from C2 spinous process.

Comparison of the anterior and posterior approach in treating four-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#The optimal surgical approach for four-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical and radiological outcomes and complications between the anterior and posterior approaches for four-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy.@*METHODS@#A total of 19 patients underwent anterior decompression and fusion and 25 patients underwent posterior laminoplasty and instrumentation in this study. Perioperative information, intraoperative blood loss, clinical and radiological outcomes, and complications were recorded. Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, 36-item short form survey (SF-36) score and cervical alignment were assessed.@*RESULTS@#There were no significant differences in JOA scores between the anterior and posterior group preoperatively (11.6 ± 1.6 vs. 12.1 ± 1.5), immediately postoperatively (14.4 ± 1.1 vs. 13.8 ± 1.3), or at the last follow-up (14.6 ± 1.0 vs. 14.2 ± 1.1) (P > 0.05). The JOA scores significantly improved immediately postoperatively and at the last follow-up in both groups compared with their preoperative values. The recovery rate was significantly higher in the anterior group both immediately postoperatively and at the last follow-up. The SF-36 score was significantly higher in the anterior group at the last follow-up compared with the preoperative value (69.4 vs. 61.7). Imaging revealed that there was no significant difference in the Cobb angle at C2-C7 between the two groups preoperatively (-2.0° ± 7.3° vs. -1.4° ± 7.5°). The Cobb angle significantly improved immediately postoperatively (12.3° ± 4.2° vs. 9.2° ± 3.6°) and at the last follow-up (12.4° ± 3.5° vs. 9.0° ± 2.6°) in both groups compared with their preoperative values (P = 0.00). Three patients had temporary dysphagia in the anterior group and four patients had persistent axial symptoms in the posterior group.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Both the anterior and posterior approaches were effective in treating four-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy in terms of neurological clinical outcomes and radiological features. However, the JOA score recovery rate and SF-36 score in the anterior group were significantly higher. Persistent axial pain could be a major concern when undertaking the posterior approach.

Mielopatía cervical espondilótica; resultados clínicos post laminoplastia / Spondylotic cervical myelopathy; clinical results after laminoplasty / Mielopatia cervical espondilótica; resultados clínicos após laminoplastia

Introducción: Evaluar los resultados clínico en pacientes portadores de mielopatía cervical espondilótica intervenidos quirúrgicamente en nuestro servicio mediante laminoplastia open door. Materiales y métodos: Realizamos un análisis retrospectivo de los pacientes intervenidos por mielopatía cervical espondilótica mediante laminoplastia entre 2010 y 2017. De los 102 pacientes intervenidos perdimos 18 casos o los datos fueron insuficientes. De los 84 casos 58 son masculinos. La media de edad fue de 63 años de los cuales se valoró: asociación de polo lumbar, tiempo entre sintomatología y cirugía, balance sagital, mielomalacia y resultados clínicos mediante la escala de Nurick y el JOA modificado. Resultados: El área más frecuente de laminoplastia fue de C3-C6 (83%). El promedio del JOA preoperatorio fue de 12,1 y postoperatorio a los 6 meses de 14,8, obteniendo una tasa de recuperación mediante el método del Hirabayasi de 81%. El Nurick preoperatorio promedio fue de 2 y a los 6 meses de 1.1. Cuarenta y dos pacientes (50%) presentaban en la RMN hiperintensidad de señal medular en T2. La tasa de recuperación del JOA y Nurick fue significativamente mayor en pacientes intervenidos a menos de 12 meses de inicio de sintomatología. Notamos una alta incidencia de sufrimiento bipolar (48%). No hubo complicaciones mayores, 2 presentaron paresia transitoria de C5, 1 paciente presento seroma que requirió drenaje superficial y 4 presentaron dolor axial leve que no tenían previo a la cirugía. Conclusiones: En nuestra experiencia la laminoplastia open door es una técnica con muy buenos resultados clínicos y con baja incidencia de complicaciones para el tratamiento de la mielopatia cervical espondilótica. Notamos una asociación significativa entre la tasa de recuperación del JOA y el periodo entre sintomatología y cirugía. Por otro lado, no encontramos asociación significativa entre el resultado clínico y el número de espacios liberados así como la presencia de alteraciones de señal medular.

Background: To evaluate the clinical results in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy operated surgically in our service by means of "open door" laminoplasty. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent cervical spondylotic myelopathy by laminoplasty between 2010 and 2017. Of the 102 patients operated on, we lost 18 cases or the data were insufficient. Of the 84 cases, 56 male patients with an average age of 63 years were evaluated: association of the lumbar pole, time between symptomatology and surgery, sagittal balance, myelomalacia and clinical results using the Nurick scale and the modified JOA. Results: The most frequent area of laminoplasty was C3-C6 (70%). The preoperative JOA average was 10.6 and postoperative at 3 months of 14.5, obtaining a recovery rate using the Hirabayashi method of 61%. The preoperative Nurick averaged 3.08 and at 3 months of 1.2. 42 patients presented with MRI hyperintense signaling in T2. The recovery rate of JOA and Nurick was significantly higher in patients operated on less than 6 months after symptom onset. We note a high incidence of bipolar suffering (30%). There were no major complications, 2 presented transient paresis of C5, 1 patient presented seroma that required superficial drainage and 4 presented mild axial pain that they did not have prior to surgery. Conclusions: In our experience, open-door laminoplasty is a technique with very good clinical results and a low incidence of complications for the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy. We note a significant association between the rate of recovery of the JOA and the period between symptoms and surgery. On the other hand, we did not find a significant association between the clinical result and the number of spaces released as well as the presence of marrow signal alterations.

Introdução: Avaliar os resultados clínicos em pacientes com mielopatia espondilótica cervical operada cirurgicamente em nosso serviço por laminoplastia aberta. Materiais e métodos: Foi realizada uma análise retrospectiva de pacientes operados por mielopatia espondilótica cervical por laminoplastia entre 2010 e 2017. Dos 102 pacientes operados, perdemos 18 casos ou os dados foram insuficientes. Dos 84 casos, 58 são do sexo masculino. A média de idade foi de 63 anos, sendo avaliada: associação do pólo lombar, tempo entre sintomatologia e cirurgia, equilíbrio sagital, mielomalácia e resultados clínicos utilizando a escala de Nurick e o JOA modificado. Resultados: A área de laminoplastia mais frequente foi a C3-C6 (83%). O JOA médio pré-operatório foi de 12,1 e no pós-operatório aos 6 meses de 14,8, obtendo-se uma taxa de recuperação pelo método de Hirabayasi de 81%. O Nurick médio pré-operatório foi 2 e em 6 meses de 1.1. Quarenta e dois pacientes (50%) apresentavam sinalização hiperintensa da ressonância magnética em T2. A taxa de recuperação de JOA e Nurick foi significativamente maior em pacientes operados em menos de 12 meses após o início dos sintomas. Notamos uma alta incidência de sofrimento bipolar (48%). Não houve complicações maiores, 2 apresentaram paresia transitória de C5, 1 paciente apresentou seroma que necessitou de drenagem superficial e 4 apresentaram dor axial leve que não tiveram antes da cirurgia. Conclusões: Em nossa experiência, a laminoplastia por portas abertas é uma técnica com resultados clínicos muito bons e baixa incidência de complicações para o tratamento da mielopatia espondilótica cervical. Notamos uma associação significativa entre a taxa de recuperação do JOA e o período entre sintomas e cirurgia. Por outro lado, não encontramos associação significativa entre o resultado clínico e o número de espaços liberados, bem como a presença de alterações no sinal medular.

Short-term curative effects of ARCH titanium plate fixation combined with expansive single open-door laminoplasty in treating cervical spondylotic myelopathy / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the short-term curative effects of ARCH titanium plate fixation combined with expansive single open-door laminoplasty (EOLP) in treating cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).@*METHODS@#EOLP with ARCH titanium plate as internal fixation material was applied in 32 patients with CSM from January to December 2016. There were 23 males and 9 females with an average age of 64.5 years ranging from 39 to 82 years. The course of disease ranged from 6 to 24 months with an average of 13.1 months. The clinical efficacy was evaluated by Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scoring method, which included upper and lower limb motor function, limb sensory function and bladder function. The sagittal diameter of the narrowest segment of vertebral canal was measured by imaging data before operation and 6 months after operation, and the improvement rate was calculated to determine the decompression effect.@*RESULTS@#All the patients were followed up from 6 to 20 months with an average of 12.2 months. Preoperative symptoms of 32 patients were improved to varying degrees, the JOA score increased from 9.78±1.34 before operation to 12.94±1.16 at 6 months after operation, the improvement rate of JOA was(44.09±11.06)% (<0.01). The spinal canal was significantly enlarged, the sagittal diameter of the narrowest vertebral canal was increased from (8.47±0.60) mm preoperatively to (12.51±0.78) mm 6 months postoperatively, the improvement rate was (48.27±11.81)% (<0.01). No loosening, displacement, rupture or "re-closure" of the internal fixator was found during the follow-up.@*CONCLUSIONS@#ARCH titanium plate fixation combined with EOLP in the treatment of CSM can significantly reduce the possibility of "re-closure" and other related postoperative complications and the short-term clinical efficacy is satisfactory.

Analysis of Preoperative Factors Affecting Postoperative Spinal Canal Expansion after Posterior Decompression for the Treatment of Multilevel Cervical Myelopathy / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective analysis OBJECTIVES: To evaluate preoperative factors related with spinal canal expansion after posterior decompression for the treatment of multilevel cervical myelopathy. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: Data about preoperative factors related with spinal canal expansion after posterior cervical decompression surgery are inconsistent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 67 patients with cervical myelopathy who underwent posterior laminectomy or laminoplasty. Radiologically, we evaluated the C2-7 Cobb angle and range of motion using X-rays from the preoperative assessment and final follow-up. Expansion of the spinal canal at 6 weeks postoperatively was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging and compared with the preoperative values. The preoperative factors of age, sex, number of operated levels, operation method, and radiological parameters were investigated as factors potentially related to postoperative spinal canal expansion using multivariate regression and correlation analyses. The clinical outcome was analyzed by the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores. RESULTS: The postoperative spinal canal expansion was 4.76 mm in sagittal images and 4.31 mm in axial images, with higher values observed in males and cases of severe preoperative cord compression. A lordotic preoperative Cobb angle was related to postoperative spinal canal expansion and JOA score improvement, but without statistical significance. The clinical outcomes of NDI (18.3→14.8) and JOA scores (10.81→14.6) showed improvement, but were not significantly related with any preoperative factors. CONCLUSIONS: The amount of preoperative spinal canal stenosis was associated with postoperative spinal canal expansion after posterior decompression in multilevel cervical myelopathy. The preoperative Cobb angle was not related to postoperative spinal canal expansion or clinical improvement.

A Case of Quadriplegia after Parotidectomy in a Patient with Asymptomatic Cervical Spondylosis / 대한이비인후과학회지

Cervical spondylosis is a common degenerative disease of the cervical spine affecting the cervical vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs. During parotidectomy, the patient is placed in a supine position with the neck extended and head rotated to the contralateral side. This position could exacerbate pre-existing cervical spondylosis and cause cervical myelopathy. We present a case of postoperative quadriplegia secondary to cervical myelopathy after parotidectomy. A 68-year-old man without symptoms of cervical spondylosis underwent partial parotidectomy for a right parotid mass and subsequently developed quadriplegia 8 hours postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed severe cervical myelopathy. Emergency laminoplasty was performed, and steroid therapy was initiated. He showed near-complete recovery six months later.

Progressive Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Caused by Tic Disorders in a Young Adult with Tourette Syndrome / 대한신경손상학회지

Involuntary movement of the cervical spine can cause damage to the cervical spinal cord. Cervical myelopathy may occur at an early age in involuntary movement disorders, such as tics. We report the case of a 21-year-old man with Tourette syndrome, who developed progressive quadriparesis, which was more severe in the upper extremities. The patient had abnormal motor tics with hyperflexion and hyperextension of the cervical spine for more than 10 years. High-signal intensity intramedullary lesions were observed at C3-4-5-6 level on T2 weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Examinations were performed for high-signal intensity intramedullary lesions that may occur at a young age, but no other diseases were detected. Botulinum toxin injection to the neck musculature and medication for tic disorders were administered. However, the myelopathy was further aggravated, as the involuntary cervical movement still remained. Therefore, laminoplasty was performed at C3-4-5-6, with posterior fixation at C2-3-4-5-6-7 to alleviate the symptoms. The neurological signs and symptoms improved dramatically. The management of tic disorders should be the first priority during treatment. However, surgical treatment may be necessary, if symptoms worsen after appropriate treatment.

Ruptured Internal Carotid Artery Pseudoaneurysm 10 Years after Cervical Spine Surgery

An iatrogenic internal carotid artery (ICA) pseudoaneurysm is an extremely rare complication of cervical spine surgery. Here we report an extraordinary case of massive hematemesis due to a ruptured ICA pseudoaneurysm caused by the laminoplasty plate 10 years after cervical spine surgery. Computed tomography angiography revealed a ruptured 4×10-mm left extracranial ICA pseudoaneurysm probably connected to the pharynx. Emergent surgery was performed because of the uncontrolled massive bleeding. After complete resection of the injured segment, an interposition graft with a 6-mm polytetrafluoroethylene graft was placed and the fistula tract to the pharynx was repaired.

All levels miniplate fixation and a modified hybrid fixation method in expansive open-door cervical laminoplasty: a retrospective comparative study / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To retrospectively compare the effect of alternate levels miniplate and anchor fixation with the effect of all levels miniplate fixation in expansive open-door cervical laminoplasty (EOLP).@*METHODS@#Patients with cervical spondylosis underwent EOLP between July 2015 and June 2016 were included in the study. There were 33 patients in the alternate group (alternate levels miniplate and anchor fixation group) and 34 patients in the miniplate group (all levels miniplate fixation group). Neurological function was evaluated with the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score and degree of pain was assessed with the visual analogue scale (VAS) score. Basic clinical and surgical data, complication rates and medical costs of the two groups were compared. In addition, radiological examinations were performed pre- and post-operatively and at the final follow-up. Relative imaging data such as anteroposterior diameter (APD), cervical curvature index (CCI) and open angle were collected and compared.@*RESULTS@#(1) The mean follow-up time was 18.6 months in the alternate group and 18.9 months in the miniplate group. There were no significant differences in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, perioperative complication rates, post-operative hospital stays, VAS scores and neurological recovery rates preoperatively and at the final follow-up between the two groups. (2) Additionally, no obvious differences were observed about CCIs and APDs at the three follow-up time points between the two groups. Post-operative open angles at C4 and C6 in the alternate group were significantly smaller than those in the miniplate group. However, there were no significant differences in C3, C5 and C7 open angles between the two groups post-operatively. Notably, no significant differences were detected about the open angles at all levels between the two groups at the final follow-up. (3) When comparing radiologic data at different time points in each group, CCIs and open angles at each level had no significant differences, but APDs after surgery and at the final follow-up were significantly larger than pre-operative APDs. (4) Total costs in the alternate group were significantly lower than those in the miniplate group.@*CONCLUSION@#The two surgical methods showed almost the same neurological recovery rates and complication rates. However, use of alternate levels miniplate and anchor fixation in EOLP can reduce medical expenses.

Severe C8 or T1 Symptoms after Cervical Laminoplasty and Related Factors: Are There Any Differences between C3–C6 Laminoplasty and C3–C7 Laminoplasty?

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. PURPOSE: We experienced the situation wherein some patients had new-onset pain or dysesthesia around the ring and little fingers (C8 symptom) or ulnar aspect of the forearm (T1 symptom) after cervical laminoplasty (LP). We investigated the incidence and the cause of new C8 or T1 symptoms and the clinical outcomes after C3–C6 LP or C3–C7 LP. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: There were some reports regarding complications after cervical LP. However, there was no report regarding C8 or T1 symptoms after cervical LP. METHODS: Among the 33 patients enrolled in this study, 11 and 22 patients were treated with C3–C6 LP and C3–C7 LP, respectively. We prospectively evaluated C8 or T1 symptoms daily postoperatively for 1 week. The distance of the posterior spinal cord shifting and posterior subarachnoid space from C2 to T1 was measured by T2-weighted midsagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We evaluated pre- and postoperative axial neck pain, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, and JOA score improvement rate. RESULTS: C8 or T1 symptoms occurred in five and three patients with C3–C6 LP (45.5%) and C3–C7 LP (13.6%), respectively. The distance of the posterior subarachnoid space in C3–C6 LP at C7 was significantly shorter than that in C3–C7 LP at T1 on MRI 24 hours postoperatively (p=0.0448). Postoperative axial neck pain, pre- and postoperative JOA scores, and JOA score improvement rate were not significantly different. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of C8 or T1 symptoms in C3–C6 LP was higher than that in C3–C7 LP. C8 or T1 symptoms would be caused by the posterior fila radicularia and spinal cord impingement on the intact lower end of the lamina.

Stand-Alone Cervical Cages in 2-Level Anterior Interbody Fusion in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: Results from a Minimum 2-Year Follow-up

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective review of patients who underwent 2-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with standalone polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of stand-alone PEEK cage in 2-level cervical interbody fusion for CSM. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: ACDF is a standard surgical procedure to treat degenerative disc disease. However, the use of additional anterior plating for 2-level ACDF remains controversial. METHODS: We reviewed outcomes of patients who underwent 2-level ACDF with stand-alone PEEK cages for CSM over a 7-year period (2007–2015) in a regional hospital. Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, fusion rate, subsidence rate, cage migration, and cervical alignment by the C2–7 angle as well as the local segmental angle (LSA) of the cervical spine were assessed. RESULTS: In total, 31 patients (mean age, 59 years; range, 36–87 years) underwent 2-level ACDF with a cage-only construct procedure between 2007 and 2015. The minimum follow-up was 24 months; mean follow-up was 51 months. C3–5 fusion was performed in 45%, C4–6 fusion in 32%, and C5–7 fusion in 23%. Mean JOA score improved from 10.1±2.2 to 13.9±2.1 (p<0.01) at the 24-month follow-up. Fusion was achieved in all patients. Subsidence occurred in 22.5% of the cages but was not associated with differences in JOA scores, age, sex, or levels fused. Lordosis of the C2–7 angle and LSA increased after surgery, which were maintained for up to 1 year but subsequently disappeared after 2 years, yet the difference was not statistically significant. No cage migration was noted; two patients developed adjacent segment disease requiring posterior laminoplasty 3 years after ACDF. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a stand-alone PEEK cage in a 2-level cervical interbody fusion achieves satisfactory improvements in both clinical outcomes and fusion.

Laminoplasty and corpectomy in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy / Laminoplastia e corporectomia no tratamento da mielopatia espondicológica cervical / Laminoplastia y corpectomía en el tratamiento de la mielopatía espondilótica cervical

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cervical Spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a disabling manifestation of extended cervical stenosis characterized by pronounced neurological dysfunction. Decompressive interventions contribute to significant regression of symptoms and, in some cases, complete recovery can be achieved. Objective: To explore the potential of laminoplasty in patients with extended cervical spondylotic stenoses complicated by myelopathy, and to develop approaches for surgical intervention in these patients. Methods: Fifty-six patients were included in the study. Laminoplasty was performed in 34 patients. Corpectomy was performed in 22 patients who made up the comparison group. The frequency and initial severity of concomitant non-neurological disorders in both groups were comparable. Results: Indications for laminoplasty were determined. They include: symptoms of spondylotic myelopathy, three or more levels of compression, preservation of lordosis, absence of signs of segmental instability, inability to perform anterior decompression, and age over 55 years. The presence of signs of segmental instability, kyphotic deformation, and history of mental disorders may be considered as contraindications for this surgery. Conclusions: Due to a number of advantages, laminoplasty is the treatment of choice for extended cervical spondylotic stenosis. Adequate selection of patients based on the evaluation of clinical symptoms, extension of stenosis, neurological signs and neuroimaging features enable excellent results to be achieved. Level of Evidence: II. Type of Study: Prospective comparative study.

RESUMO Introdução: A mielopatia espondilótica cervical (MSC) é uma manifestação incapacitante de estenose cervical extensa, caracterizada por disfunção neurológica pronunciada. As intervenções descompressivas contribuem para a regressão significativa dos sintomas e, em alguns casos, a recuperação completa pode ser alcançada. Objetivo: Explorar o potencial da laminoplastia em pacientes com estenoses espondilóticas cervicais extensas complicadas por mielopatia e desenvolver abordagens para intervenção cirúrgica nesses pacientes. Métodos: 56 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. A laminoplastia foi realizada em 34 pacientes. A corpectomia foi realizada em 22 pacientes, que compuseram o grupo de comparação. A frequência e a gravidade inicial dos distúrbios não neurológicos concomitantes em ambos os grupos foram comparáveis. Resultados: As indicações para laminoplastia foram determinadas. Eles incluem: sintomas de mielopatia espondilótica, três ou mais níveis de compressão, preservação da lordose, ausência de sinais de instabilidade segmentar, incapacidade de realizar descompressão anterior e idade superior a 55 anos. A presença de sinais de instabilidade segmentar, deformação cifótica e história de transtornos mentais podem ser considerados como contraindicações para essa cirurgia. Conclusões: Devido a uma série de vantagens, a laminoplastia é o tratamento de escolha para estenose espondilótica cervical estendida. A seleção adequada dos pacientes, com base na avaliação dos sintomas clínicos, extensão da estenose, sinais neurológicos e características de neuroimagem, possibilitam alcançar excelentes resultados. Nível de Evidência: II. Tipo de Estudo: Estudo Comparativo prospectivo.

RESUMEN Introducción: La mielopatía espondilótica cervical (MSC) es una manifestación incapacitante de estenosis cervical extendida caracterizada por una fuerte disfunción neurológica. Las intervenciones de descompresión contribuyen a la regresión significativa de los síntomas y, en algunos casos, se puede lograr una recuperación completa. Objetivo: Explorar el potencial de la laminoplastia en pacientes con estenosis espondilótica cervical extendida complicada por mielopatía y desarrollar enfoques para la intervención quirúrgica en estos pacientes. Métodos: Cincuenta y seis pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio. Laminoplastia se realizó en 34 pacientes. Corpectomía se realizó en 22 pacientes que componen el grupo de comparación. La frecuencia y la gravedad inicial de los trastornos no neurológicos concomitantes en ambos grupos fueron comparables. Resultados: Se determinaron las indicaciones para laminoplastia. Estas incluyen: síntomas de mielopatía espondilótica, tres o más niveles de compresión, preservación de la lordosis, ausencia de signos de inestabilidad segmentaria, incapacidad para realizar descompresión anterior y edad mayor de 55 años. La presencia de signos de inestabilidad segmentaria, deformación cifótica y antecedentes de trastornos mentales puede considerarse una contraindicación para esta cirugía. Conclusiones: Debido a una serie de ventajas, la laminoplastia es el tratamiento de elección para la estenosis espondilótica cervical extendida. La adecuada selección de pacientes basada en la evaluación de los síntomas clínicos, la extensión de la estenosis, los signos neurológicos y las características de neuroimágenes hacen posible obtener excelentes resultados. Nivel de Evidencia: II Tipo de Estudio: Estudio comparativo prospectivo.

Novel Hybrid Hydroxyapatite Spacers Ensure Sufficient Bone Bonding in Cervical Laminoplasty

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective observational study. PURPOSE: This prospective analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and bone-bonding rate of hybrid hydroxyapatite (HA) spacers in expansive laminoplasty. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Various types of spacers or plates have been developed for expansive laminoplasty. METHODS: Expansive open-door laminoplasty was performed in 146 patients with cervical myelopathy; 450 hybrid HA spacers and 41 autogenous bone spacers harvested from the spinous processes were grafted into the opened side of each lamina. The patients were followed up using computed tomography (CT), and their bone-bonding rates for hybrid HA and autogenous spacers, bone-fusion rates of the hinges of the laminae, and complications associated with the implants were then examined. RESULTS: Clinical symptoms significantly improved in all patients, and no major complications related to the procedure were noted. The hybrid HA spacers exhibited sufficient bone bonding on postoperative CT. The hinges completely fused in over 95% patients within 1 year of the procedure. Only 4 spacers (0.9%) developed lamina sinking, and most expanded laminae maintained their positions without sinking or floating throughout the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Hybrid HA spacers contributed to high bone-fusion rates of the spacers and hinges of the laminae, and no complications were associated with their use. Cervical laminoplasty with these spacers is safe and simple, and it yields sufficient fixation strength while ensuring sufficient bone bonding during the immediate postoperative period.

Analysis of correlative factors of spinal cord posterior displacement after single door laminoplasty / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the open angle (OA), cervical curvature angle (CA), preoperative spinal cord compression rate(PSCR), postoperative spinal cord shift (PSCS) in patients with chronic compressive cervical myelopathy undergoing C3-7 single open laminoplasty, and to explore the possible mechanism and influencing factors of postoperative average spinal cord drift, so as to provide objective basis for predicting PSCS.@*METHODS@#From May 2012 to July 2016, 32 patients with multi-segmental chronic compressive cervical myelopathy who underwent single-door laminoplasty in our department were analyzed retrospectively, including 14 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, 8 cases of developmental cervical spinal stenosis with cervical myelopathy, and 10 cases of ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament. The OA of cervical spine was measured on CT, the CA was measured on X-ray, the PSCR and PSCS were measured on MRI. The patients were divided into two groups according to PSCS(group A>=2.5 mm, group B0.1), and the partial regression coefficients of OA and PSCR were 0.113 and 0.059 respectively.@*CONCLUSIONS@#PSCS is the result of OA, CA and PSCR, among which PSCR has the most important influence, OA is the second, CA is the least. PSCS can be predicted by 0.059×OA+0.113×PSCR-2.266 equation, which provides a theoretical basis for preoperative evaluation of spinal cord decompression after surgery.

Hydrocephalus as a Complication of Durotomy during Cervical Laminoplasty: A Case Report / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: Case report. OBJECTIVES: We report a case of hydrocephalus as a complication of durotomy during cervical laminoplasty. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: Hydrocephalus is a very rare complication of cervical laminoplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 72-year-old man had an incidental durotomy during cervical laminoplasty. The dural leak was repaired by secondary surgery. However, the patient continued to complain of headaches and developed confusion and drowsiness. A computed tomographic scan of the brain showed hydrocephalus. After insertion of a lumbar drain, the patient experienced a temporary improvement in the neurologic symptoms. After 6 months, the neurologic symptoms recurred and a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt was placed. RESULTS: After placement of the VP shunt, the neurologic symptoms improved significantly. CONCLUSIONS: If a patient shows deterioration of neurologic symptoms after an incidental durotomy, surgeons should consider the possibility of hydrocephalus.