Treatment of stable degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis with percutaneous endoscopic surgery through two different approaches / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To assess the clinical effects of percutaneous endoscopic surgery through two different approaches for stable degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis.@*METHODS@#Sixty-four patients with stable degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis who underwent percutaneous endoscopic procedures between January 2016 and December 2019 were divided into transforaminal approach group and interlaminar approach group according to surgical approaches, 32 patients in each group. There were 16 males and 16 females in transforaminal approach group, aged from 52 to 84 years old with an average of (66.03±9.60) years, L2 slippage in 4 cases, L3 slippage in 5, and L4 slippage in 23. There were 17 males and 15 females in interlaminar approach group, aged from 46 to 81 years old with an average of (61.38±9.88) years, L3 slippage in 3 cases, L4 slippage in 15, and L5 slippage in 14. Operative time, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, and postoperative bedtime were compared between two groups. Anteroposterior displacement values, interbody opening angles, and the percentage of slippage were measured on preoperative and postoperative 12-month dynamic radiographs. Visual analogue scale (VAS) of low back pain and lower extremity pain, and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score before and after surgery were observed, and clinical effects were evaluated according to the modified MACNAB criteria.@*RESULTS@#All operations were successfully completed, and patients in both groups were followed up for more than 1 year, and without complications during follow-up period. ①There was no significant difference in operation time between two groups(P>0.05). Intraoperative fluoroscopy times were longer in transforaminal approach group than that in intervertebral approach group(P<0.05). Postoperative bedtime was shorter in transforaminal approach group than that in intervertebral approach group (P<0.05).② No lumbar instability was found on dynamic radiography at 12 months postoperatively in both groups. There were no significant differences in anteroposterior displacement values, interbody opening angles, and the percentage of slippage between two groups postoperative 12 months and preoperative 1 day(P>0.05). ③There was no significant difference between two groups in VAS of low back pain at 3 days and 1, 12 months after the operation compared with the preoperative(P>0.05), but the VAS of the lower extremity pain was significantly improved compared with the preoperative(P<0.05). Both of groups showed significant improvement in JOA score at 12 months compared with preoperatively(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in VAS of low back pain, lower extremity pain and JOA scores between two groups during the same period after surgery(P>0.05). According to modified Macnab criteria, excellent, good, fair and poor outcomes were 21, 7, 3 and 1 in transforaminal approach group respectively, and which in intervertebral approach group were 20, 7, 5 and 0, there was no significant difference in clinical effect between the groups(P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Intervertebral approach may reduce intraoperative fluoroscopy times and transforaminal approach can shorten postoperative bedtime, both approaches achieve satisfactory results in the treatment of stable degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis with no progression of short-term slippage.

Pain intensity and functionality after percutaneous endoscopic discectomy: a retrospective cohort study / Intensidade de dor e funcionalidade após discectomia endoscópica percutânea: estudo de coorte retrospectivo / Intensidad del dolor y funcionalidad después de la discectomía endoscópica percutánea: un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo

ABSTRACT Objectives To evaluate pain intensity and functional status before and 30 days following percutaneous lumbar endoscopic discectomy. Methods A retrospective cohort study that included patients who underwent percutaneous endoscopic discectomy from January 2019 to October 2020 at the Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia Hospital, in Porto Alegre. The data were collected from the electronic medical records of the patients by two independent physicians. Clinical outcomes were assessed using visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores. Results Forty-six patients with a mean age of 52.6 ± 15.8 years, 27 of whom (58.7%) were male, were evaluated. Regarding clinical outcomes, a statistically significant improvement was observed in the comparison between the pre- and 30-day postoperative VAS and ODI scores, with no significant difference in relation to sex. No peri- or postoperative complications were observed. All patients successfully completed surgery and were discharged after recovery from anesthesia. Conclusion There was a significant improvement in pain and functional status 30 days after percutaneous endoscopic discectomy performed to correct lumbar disc herniation, with no difference in relation to sex. In addition, no peri- or postoperative complications were observed. Future studies, with longer follow-up times, comparing clinical outcomes from the various techniques of percutaneous endoscopic discectomy are necessary. Level of evidence III; Retrospective comparative study.

RESUMO Objetivos Avaliar a intensidade da dor e o estado funcional antes da cirurgia e em 30 dias de pós-operatório de discectomia endoscópica lombar percutânea. Métodos Estudo de coorte retrospectivo. Foram incluídos pacientes tratados com discectomia endoscópica percutânea, de janeiro de 2019 a outubro de 2020, no complexo hospitalar Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre. Os dados foram coletados do prontuário eletrônico dos pacientes por dois médicos independentes. Os desfechos clínicos foram avaliados pela pontuação da Escala Visual Analógica (EVA) e do Índice de Incapacidade Oswestry (ODI). Resultados Foram incluídos 46 pacientes no estudo, com média de idade de 52,6 ± 15,8 anos, sendo 27 (58,7%), do sexo masculino. Quanto aos desfechos clínicos, observou-se melhora estatisticamente significativa com relação às escalas de EVA e ODI na comparação entre pré-operatório e 30 dias depois da cirurgia, sem diferença significativa com relação ao sexo. Não foram observadas complicações peri e pós-operatórias. Todos os pacientes completaram a cirurgia com sucesso e receberam alta após recuperação da anestesia. Conclusão Observou-se melhora significativa da dor e do estado funcional 30 dias depois da discectomia endoscópica percutânea realizada para correção da hérnia de disco lombar, sem diferença com relação ao sexo. Além disso, não foram observadas complicações peri e pós-operatórias, assim como não houve necessidade de internação hospitalar. Futuros estudos, com maior tempo de seguimento, que comparem os desfechos clínicos através das diversas técnicas de discectomia endoscópica percutânea fazem-se necessários. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar la intensidad del dolor y el estado funcional antes de la cirugía y 30 días después de la discectomía endoscópica lumbar percutánea. Métodos Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes tratados mediante discectomía endoscópica percutánea, de enero de 2019 a octubre de 2020, en el complejo hospitalario Hermandad Santa Casa de Misericordia de Porto Alegre. Los datos fueron recolectados de los registros médicos electrónicos de los pacientes por dos médicos independientes. Los resultados clínicos se evaluaron mediante la puntuación de la Escala Visual Analógica (EVA) y del Índice de Discapacidad de Oswestry (ODI). Resultados Se incluyeron 46 pacientes en el estudio, con una edad promedio de 52,6 ± 15,8 años, de los cuales 27 (58,7%) eran del sexo masculino. En cuanto a los resultados clínicos, hubo una mejoría estadísticamente significativa en relación a las escalas EVA y ODI al comparar el preoperatorio y 30 días después de la cirugía sin diferencia significativa en cuanto al sexo. No se observaron complicaciones perioperatorias y postoperatorias. Todos los pacientes completaron con éxito la cirugía e fueron dados de alta después de recuperarse de la anestesia, sin casos de reingreso hospitalario. Conclusión Hubo una mejoría significativa del dolor y del estado funcional luego de 30 días de discectomía endoscópica percutánea, realizada para corregir la hernia de disco lumbar, sin diferencias en cuanto al sexo. Además, no hubo complicaciones perioperatorias y postoperatorias, así como tampoco hubo necesidad de hospitalización. Son necesarios estudios futuros, con un período de seguimiento más largo, que comparen los resultados clínicos a través de las diferentes técnicas de discectomía endoscópica percutánea. Nivel de evidencia III; Estudio comparativo retrospectivo.

Lumbar herniated disc treatment with percutaneous hydrodiscectomy

SUMMARY Lumbar herniated disc are common manifestations of degenerative spine diseases, the main cause of radiated lower back pain. This guideline followed standard of a systematic review with recovery of evidence based on the movement of evidence-based medicine. We used the structured method for formulating the question synthesized by the acronym p.I.C.O., In which the p corresponds to the lumbar herniated disc, i to the treatment intervention with percutaneous hydrodiscectomy, c comparing with other treatment modalities, o the outcome of clinical evolution and complications. From the structured question, we identify the descriptors which constituted the evidence search base in the medline-pubmed databases (636 papers) and therefore, after the eligibility criteria (inclusion and exclusion), eight papers were selected to answer to clinical question. The details of the methodology and the results of this guideline are exposed in annex i.

RESUMO Hérnias discais lombares são manifestações comuns das doenças degenerativas da coluna, sendo a principal causa de dor lombar irradiada. Esta diretriz seguiu padrão de uma revisão sistemática com recuperação de evidências com base no movimento da Medicina Baseada em Evidências. Utilizamos a forma estruturada de formular a pergunta sintetizada pelo acrônimo P.I.C.O., em que o P corresponde à Hérnia de disco lombar, I à intervenção Tratamento com hidrodiscectomia percutânea, C comparando com Outras modalidades de tratamento, O de desfecho de Evolução clínica e complicações. A partir da pergunta estruturada, identificamos os descritores que constituíram a base da busca da evidência nas bases de dados Medline-PubMed (636 trabalhos) e, assim, após os critérios de elegibilidade (inclusão e exclusão), oito trabalhos foram selecionados para responder à dúvida clínica. Os detalhes da metodologia e dos resultados desta diretriz estão expostos no Anexo I.

Extradural lumbar nerve root cavernous hemangioma: case report and successful surgical resection / Hemangioma cavernoso extradural de raiz nervosa lombar: relato de caso e ressecção cirúrgica bem-sucedida

Extradural lumbar spinal canal cavernous hemangiomas (or cavernomas) are rare lesions that can induce intense back pain and neurological deficit. We present a case report of a patient with a pure radicular lombar extradural cavernoma resembling a benign neurological tumor in imaging exams and a successful surgical resection.

Os hemangiomas cavernosos do canal vertebral lombar extradural (ou cavernomas) são lesões raras que podem induzir dor intensa no dorso e déficit neurológico. Apresentamos um relato de caso de um paciente com um cavernoma extradural lombar radicular puro assemelhando-se a um tumor neurológico benigno em exames de imagem e uma ressecção cirúrgica bem-sucedida.

Uso de pregabalina en el tratamiento de la lumbociatalgia / Pregabalin for treatment of low back pain

La lumbociatalgia es un problema clínico común, que en la mayoría de los casos se autolimita y se puede tratar en forma conservadora, usando medidas no farmacológicas y analgésicos como paracetamol o los antiinflamatorios no esteroi-deos. Otro medicamento muy utilizado en nuestro medio es la pregabalina, a pesar de que no se encuentra aprobada para dicha indicación. En este trabajo, el autor se pregunta acerca de la utilidad clínica de la pregabalina y luego de hacer una búsqueda bibliográfica sobre la evidencia más actualizada y de mejor calidad acerca del tema, concluye que no es efectiva para lumbociatalgia y que se acompaña de efectos adversos significativos. Esto coincide con las recomenda-ciones de las guías internacionales, que en su mayoría desaconsejan el uso de anticonvulsivantes para la lumbalgia. (AU)

Sciatica is a common clinical situation, in most cases self-limited and which can be managed conservatively with nonpharmaco-logic treatment and analgesics, such as paracetamol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Pregabalin is also commonly used, despite not being approved for this indication. In this article, the author queries about the clinical usefulness of pregabalin, and after carrying out a bibliographic search of the most recent and best-quality evidence, concludes that it is not effective in sciatica while it causes significant adverse effects. This is in line with the recommendations of most international guidelines,that do not recommend the use of anticonvulsivants drugs for the treatment of lumbalgia. (AU)

Abordaje intervencionista del síndrome facetario lumbar: denervación con radiofrecuencia / Interventional approach for lumbar facet syndrome: radio frequency denervation

Lumbar pain is a common and frequent chronic condition. It is estimated that facet joint pain represents 15-31% of all consultations for low back pain. In suspected facet joint pain, it is recommended to perform nerve blocks to establish the diagnosis. Percutaneous continuous radiofrequency is the most effective treatment to date. We describe the current evidence on the minimally invasive treatment of lumbar facet syndrome and our experience with image guidance with CT and fluoroscopy by means of rhizolysis of the medial branch of the dorsal primary ramus of the spinal nerve.

El dolor lumbar es una entidad común y frecuente crónica. Se estima que el dolor de causa articular facetaria representa el 15-31% de todas las consultas por dolor lumbar. En sospecha de dolor articular facetario se recomienda realización de bloqueos nerviosos para establecer el diagnóstico. La radiofrecuencia continua percutánea es el tratamiento más efectivo hasta la fecha. Se describe la evidencia actual en el tratamiento mínimamente invasivo del síndrome facetario lumbar y nuestra experiencia con las guías de imagen con TC y fluoroscopía mediante rizolisis de la rama medial del ramo primario dorsal del nervio espinal.

Revisión teórica de las estrategias de afrontamiento (coping) según el modelo transaccional de estrés y afrontamiento de Lazarus & Folkman en pacientes quirúrgicos bariátricos, lumbares y plásticos / Theoretical review of coping strategies according to the Lazarus & Folkman transactional stress and coping model in bariatric, lumbar and plastic surgical patients

La psicología de la salud está al servicio de la medicina y busca evaluar, estudiar e intervenir en los factores psicológicos que influyen en el proceso de salud y enfermedad. a raíz del aumento de las cirugías y su calidad de evento estresor, que genera comprensivamente ansiedad en cualquier paciente, es aún más relevante el estudio de dichos factores.el presente trabajo tiene como objetivo dar a conocer en una revisión teórica las estrategias de afrontamiento, que son uno de los factores cognitivos-conductuales más importantes. Esta revisión se realizará según el modelo transaccional de estrés y afrontamiento de Lazarus & Folkman en pacientes quirúrgicos bariátricos, lumbares y plásticos.

The psychology of health is at the service of medicine and seeks to evaluate, study and intervene on the psychological factors that influence the health and disease process. as a result of the increase in surgeries, and its quality as a stressor event, which comprehensively generates anxiety in any patient, the study of these factors is even more relevant. The present work aims to present in a theoretical review the coping strategies, which are one of the most important cognitive-behavioral factors. this review will be performed according to the Lazarus & Folkman transactional stress and coping model in bariatric, lumbar and plastic surgical patients.

Randomized clinical trial comparing lumbar percutaneous hydrodiscectomy with lumbar open microdiscectomy for the treatment of lumbar disc protrusions and herniations

OBJECTIVES: Hydrodiscectomy is a new technique used for percutaneous spinal discectomy that employs a high-intensity stream of water for herniated disc ablation and tissue aspiration. No previous clinical study has examined the effects of percutaneous hydrodiscectomy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of hydrodiscectomy compared to open microdiscectomy regarding pain, function, satisfaction, complications and recurrence rates. METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial, patients referred to our tertiary hospital for lumbar back pain were recruited and included in the study if they had disc protrusion or small herniation in only one level, without neurological deficits and with no resolution after six weeks of conservative treatment. One group underwent open microdiscectomy, and the other group underwent percutaneous microdiscectomy via hydrosurgery. Function was evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index and pain was assessed using a visual analog scale. Evaluations were performed preoperatively, and then during the first week and at one, three, six and twelve months postoperatively. Personal satisfaction was verified. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01367860. RESULTS: During the study period, 20 patients were included in each arm and 39 completed one-year of follow-up (one patient died of unrelated causes). Both groups exhibited equal improvement on the visual analog scale and Oswestry evaluations after treatment, without any significant differences. The improvement in the lumbar visual analog scale score was not significant in the hydrodiscectomy group (p=0.138). The rates of infection, pain, recurrence and satisfaction were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous hydrodiscectomy was demonstrated to be as effective as open microdiscectomy for reducing pain. The rates of complications and recurrence of herniation were similar between groups. Patient satisfaction with the treatment was also similar between groups.

Long-term follow-up in sacroiliac joint pain patients treated with radiofrequency ablative therapy / Seguimento longo em pacientes com sacroileíte submetidos a terapia de radiofrequência ablativa

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain is responsible for up to 40% of all cases of lumbar back pain. Objective Report the long-term efficacy of radiofrequency denervation for sacroiliac joint pain at six, twelve and eighteen months.Method Third-two adults’ patients with sacroiliac join pain diagnosis were included for a prospective study. Primary outcome measure was pain intensity on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Secondary outcome measure was Patient Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC).Results Short-term pain relief was observed, with the mean NRS pain score decreasing from 7.7 ± 1.8 at baseline to 2.8 ± 1.2 at one month and to 3.1 ± 1.9 at six months post-procedure (p < 0.001). Long-term pain relief was sustained at twelve and eighteen months post-procedure, with NRS pain remaining at 3.4 ± 2.1 and 4.0 ± 2.7, respectively.Conclusion Radiofrequency denervation of the SIJ can significantly reduce pain in selected patients with sacroiliac syndrome.

A Sacroileíte pode ser responsável por até 40% dos casos de dor lombar crônica. Objetivo Análise da eficácia da denervação por radiofrequência na articulação sacro-ilíaca em seis, doze e dezoito meses.Método Trinta e dois pacientes com diagnóstico de sacroileíte foram incluídos em estudo prospectivo. O prognóstico primário foi avaliado pela escala visual analógico (NRS). O prognóstico secundário foi avaliado pela escala de impressão global de mudança pelo paciente (PGIC).Resultados Melhora a curto prazo da dor foi observada, com redução media na NRS de 7,7 ± 1,8 para 2,8 ± 1,2 após 1 mês e para 3,1 ± 1,9 em 6 meses do procedimento (p < 0,001). Após 12 e 18 meses, o NRS manteve-se 3,4 ± 2,1 e 4,0 ± 2,7, respectivamente.Conclusão A denervação da articulação sacro-ilíaca por radiofrequência pode reduzir significativamente a dor em pacientes com sacroileíte.

Mamoplastia redutora pela técnica de pedículo inferior: estudo descritivo / Brest reduction with the lower pedicle technique: an observational study

INTRODUÇÃO: A mamoplastia redutora utilizando pedículo inferior incluindo complexo aréolopapilar é muito utilizada na América do Norte, mas pouco difundida no Brasil. Sua principal vantagem é a utilização em grandes ptoses mamárias, mantendo a sensibilidade da aréola. OBJETIVO: O objetivo é descrever as características pré e pós-operatórias de pacientes submetidos a mamoplastia redutora pela técnica do pedículo inferior areolado na Santa Casa de Campo Grande - MS em 2013. MÉTODO: Entrevista, exame físico e dados de prontuário das pacientes operadas por esta técnica nessa instituição no ano de 2013. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliadas 40 pacientes, sendo que a idade variou de 21 a 68 anos, com média de 40,62 anos. As comorbidades relatadas foram hipertensão arterial sistêmica, diabetes, retocolite ulcerativa, hérnia de disco e distúrbio de ansiedade. O peso médio de tecido mamário ressecado foi 600,6g na mama direita e 609,6g na mama esquerda. Dentre as queixas pré-operatória, a mais comum foi a lombalgia, seguida por dor nos ombros. As mais frequentes complicações no pós-operatório recente foram a deiscência do ponto médio da vertente (10%) e o hematoma (5%).O tipo de Anestesia predominante foi a anestesia geral. Todas as pacientes apresentaram displasias benignas da mama nos histopatológicos de pós-operatórios. CONCLUSÃO: A técnica do pedículo inferior areolado mostrou-se adequada para o tratamento de grandes hipertrofias e ptoses mamárias.

INTRODUCTION: Reduction mammaplasty with the inferior pedicle nipple-areolar technique is widely used in North America but not in Brazil. Its main advantage lies in maintaining the sensitivity of the areola in large mammary ptoses. To describe the preoperative and postoperative characteristics of patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty with the inferior pedicle nipple-areolar technique at the Santa Casa de Campo Grande - MS in 2013. METHOD: We performed interview, physical examination, and review of medical records of patients operated by using this technique at this institution in 2013. RESULTS: Forty patients were evaluated. Their ages ranged from 21 to 68 years, with a mean of 40.62 years. The comorbidities reported were hypertension, diabetes, ulcerative colitis, disc herniation, and anxiety disorder. The average weight of resected tissue was 600.6 g from the right breast and 609.6 g from the left breast. The most common presurgery complaint was low back pain, followed by shoulder pain. The most frequent complications in the early postoperative phase were dehiscence of the mid-point of the strand (10%) and hematoma (5%). The predominant type of anesthesia was general anesthesia. All patients showed benign breast dysplasia in the postoperative histopathological examination. CONCLUSION: The inferior pedicle nipple-areolar technique was adequate for the treatment of major hypertrophies and mammary ptoses.

Denervación de la articulación sacroilíaca por radiofrecuencia: una descripción de las técnicas disponibles / Sacroiliac joint denervation radiofrequency: an overview of available techniques

La articulación sacroilíaca es una fuente de dolor lumbar y dolor referido en la extremidad inferior. Aún no existen rasgos históricos, clínicos o radiológicos definitivos para hacer un diagnóstico preciso del dolor originado en la articulación sacroilíaca. La inervación de esta articulación continúa siendo objeto de debate y en la literatura se describen muchos abordajes diferentes. Los bloqueos diagnósticos son la herramienta diagnóstica más precisa pues la reducción del dolor confirma el rol de la articulación sacroilíaca como generadora del mismo. En muchos pacientes, cuando la reducción del dolor se logra luego de bloqueos intraarticulares únicos o consecutivos, se realiza una denervación por radiofrecuencia, con el objetivo de obtener una analgesia de larga duración. El propósito de este artículo es describir las técnicas disponibles actualmente para la denervación por radiofrecuencia.

The sacroiliac joint is a source of low back pain and referred pain in the lower extremity. There are still no definite historical, clinical or radiological features to make a precise diagnosis of pain originating from the sacroiliac joint. The innervation of the sacroiliac joint remains a subject of much debate and different approaches are described in the literature. Diagnostic blockades are the most accurate diagnostic tool, since pain reduction confirms the role of sacroiliac joint as a generator of it. In many patients, when pain reduction is achieved after single or consecutive intra-articular blockades, a radiofrequency denervation is performed for the purpose of obtaining a long term analgesia. The purpose of this paper is to describe the techniques currently available for radiofrequency denervation.

Experiencia en cirugía lumbar endoscópia / Experience in lumbar endoscopic surgery

La cirugía endoscópica de columna, resultado de la inquietud de múltiples investigadores en encontrar técnicas menos invasivas para el tratamiento de problemas quirúrgicos. Serie clínica de 33 pacientes, sometidos a cirugía lumbar endoscópica y evolución clínica (2009–2011). 33 pacientes, el 91% mínimo 6 meses de evolución, 100% fueron manejados ambulatorio, 52% femenino, 48% masculinos, promedio de 49 años de edad, 60% diagnostico de Lumbalgia discogenica y 40% síndrome de receso lateral y radiculalgia, 30% empleados públicos, 50% Discectomía endoscopia un nivel, 30% dos niveles, 17% tres niveles y 3% cuatro niveles, 21% tenía signos radiculares preoperatorios, un paciente (3%) espondilodiscitis, 37% reagudización clínica e inestabilidad lumbar, 15% requirió otra cirugía y 9% se le plantea nueva cirugía. Se evaluaron con la escala visual análoga del dolor, test de incapacidad de Oswestry, criterios de Macnab. La cirugía endoscópica lumbar, técnica atractiva, al reducir la vía de abordaje, reduce las complicaciones de cicatrización y la temprana incorporación a sus actividades. En nuestra experiencia, obtuvimos un 76% entre buenos y aceptables resultados y 24% malos según Macnab, lo que obliga a ser acuciosos para seleccionar al paciente.

Endoscopic surgery of the spine, resulting from the concern of many researchers to find less invasive techniques for the treatment of surgical problems. A case series of 33 patients who underwent lumbar endoscopic surgery and clinical course (2009 - 2011). 33 patients, 91% at least 6 months duration, 100% were ambulatory, 52% female, 48% male, average age 49 years, 60% diagnosis of discogenic low back pain and 40% lateral recess syndrome and radiculalgia, 30% civil servants, 50% endoscopic discectomy level, 30% two levels, three levels 17% and 3% four levels, 21% had preoperative radicular findings, one patient (3%) spondylodiscitis, 37% and clinical worsening lumbar instability, 15% required another surgery and 9% is facednew surgery. Were evaluated with visual analog pain scale, Oswestry Disability test, Macnab criteria. The lumbar endoscopic surgery, technically attractive, reducing the surgical approach, reduces the complications of early healing and incorporation into its activities. In our experience, we obtained 76% between good and acceptable and 24% poor results according to Macnab, making it necessary to be diligent to select the patient.

La discebtomia simple como tratamiento en el síndrome de compresión radicular lumbar / Simple discectomy in the treatment of lumbar radicular compression syndrome

Para el tratamiento de la compresión radicular lumbar se presentan los resultados obtenidos utilizando la discectomía simple lumbar (Laminotomía bilateral asociadaa discectomía bilateral), en 1214 pacientes que sufrían de dolor lumbar o lumbociática incapacitante. El procedimiento incluye una amplia Laminotomía bilateral, facetectomía parcial y bilateral, superior e inferior, discectomía bilateral osteotomía en V de las apófisis espinosas comprometidas y foraminotomía uni o bilateralcuando estuvieron indicadas. El tiempo de evolución promedio pre-operatorio fue de 3 años y un mes. Todos los pacientes fueron estudiados clínicamente, incluyendo exámenes musculares, neurológicos y de laboratorio. Se analizaron radiografías estáticas y dinámicas de la columna lumbar y en todos se practicó tomografía axial computada desde el segmento L3 al sacro y/o Resonancia Magnética de acuerdo al caso. El control postoperatorio promedio fue de 2 años; 97.1% de los pacientes presentaron un resultado excelente. En el 2.2% de los pacientes no se obtuvieron cambios significativos y no hubo resultados negativos. El 97% de los pacientes con déficit motor volvieron a la normalidad y regresaron a sus actividades habituales en 6 a 8 semanas promedio. No se presentaron complicaciones intraoperatorias, postoperatorias ni de tipo infeccioso. Se concluye que el método es beneficioso y justificable su aplicación en nuestro medio.

Results obtained by using simple discectomy (bilateral laminotomy and discectomy associated) are shown for treatment of lumbar radicular compression syndrome in 1214 patient suffering low-back pain or lumbo-sciatic disableness. The surgical procedure includes ample bilateral laminotomy, partial and bilateral facetectomy, both upper and lower, bilateral discectomy, osteotomy in “V” of the involved spinal processes and uni or bilateral foraminotomy. Preoperative average evolution was 3 years and one month. All patient were clinically studied including physical examination, muscle and neurological examination and laboratory test. Both staticand dynamic roentgenography of the lumbar spine were taken out and Tomography and/or Magnetical Resonancy scan from the L3 segment to the sacrum was performed accord in the every cases. Postoperative average follow up was of 2 years; 97.1% of the patients showed excellent results. 2.2% of the patients did not show any significant changes. There were no negativeresults; 97% of the patients no showing motor and sensitivity deficit, returned to normal activities after 6 to 8 weeks. No infection, intraoperative nor postoperative complications developed. It was concluded that this surgical procedure is benefical, safe and justifiable in this situation.

Espaciador interespinoso tipo DIAM: experiencia en Puerto Montt / DIAM interspinous spacer type: experience in Puerto Montt

El lumbago crónico constituye un problema de salud pública por su frecuencia y afección a población joven, económicamente activa. Se presenta en el presente artículo, un análisis de la biomecánica de la columna lumbar, y la importancia de los vectores de carga en la génesis del dolor, y las posibilidades de intervenir sobre ellos con la instalación de dispositivos interespinosos. Se exponen las distintas alternativas de espaciadores interespinosos y se presenta la experiencia con el DIAM. Se analizan los resultados de 17 pacientes sometidos a cirugía por lumbago crónico por fracaso a tratamiento médico quinésico, con la instalación de 26 dispositivos, destacando la buena evolución de la mayoría de ellos, con reducción significativa del dolor (EVA pre y postoperatorio) y análisis de capacidad funcional por escala de Oswestry luego de la cirugía. Todos los pacientes fueron intervenidos por el autor.

Chronic low back pain constitutes a public health problem by its frequency and affection in young population, economically active. This article presents an analysis of the biomechanics of the lumbar spine, and the importance of load vectors in pain genesis, and the possibilities to act on them with interspinous device installation. Here are exposed interspinous spacers alternatives and presents experience with the DIAM. We analyze the results of 17 patients undergoing surgery for chronic low back pain by failure of kinesics medical treatment, with the installation of 26 devices, highlighting the good performance of most of them with significant reduction in pain (VAS pre-and postoperative) and functional capacity analysis Oswestry scale after surgery. All patients were operated on by the author.

Outcome of instrumented spinal fusion for chronic low back pain: review of 100 patients

Objective of this study was to evaluate the outcome of instrumented spinal fusion in selected patients with Chronic Low Back Pain [CLBP] in our setup. Quasi-experimental study. Spine Unit, Orthopaedic Department, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Jan 2002 to Dec 2007. Consecutive first one hundred patients were selected from spine unit database that underwent instrumented spinal fusion for chronic low back pain lasting more than one year, due to degenerative disease of spine. Average age was 42 years. There were 62 males and 38 females. Diagnosis included; spinal stenosis [26%], failed disc surgery [22%], spondylolisthesis [19%], degenerative disc disease [17%], and instability [16%]. Operations performed; Pedicle Screw Fixation [PSF] with Postero-lateral Fusion [PLF] in 3% patients. Trans Laminar Facet Screw [TLFS] with PLF in 24% patients. Anterior Lumbar Inter-body Fusion [ALIF] in 9% patients. Posterior Lumbar Inter-body Fusion [PLIF] in 40% patients and Trans-foraminal Lumbar Inter-body Fusion [TLIF] in 24% patients. Average follow up was for 30 months. 86% patients had full spinal fusion. 71% patients were fully satisfied with treatment, 28% were partially satisfied. Post-operatively, on average, visual analogue scale [VAS] showed 48 points significant improvement and Oswestry Disability Index [ODI] showed 53 points significant improvement. Instrumented Spinal Fusion is effective in our set up for relieving symptoms and improving functional outcome in selected patients with debilitating Chronic Low Back Pain due to degenerative disease of spine. Single fusion technique is not ideal for all types of patients and surgeon has to be versatile and trained in using different fusion techniques as the situation demands

Derivación lumboperitoneal como tratamiento de quistes de Tarlov sintomáticos / Lumboperitoneal shunt for treatment of symptomatic lumbar Tarlov cysts

La Lumbalgia es una causa frecuente de discapacidad y de limitación funcional en nuestra sociedad, con un costo financiero, social y laboral muy alto. Es un problema común que afecta a ambos sexos y la mayoría de las edades, para las que aproximadamente uno de cada cuatro adultos busca atención al cabo de seis meses. En los EE.UU., para las personas de 45 años o menos, el dolor lumbar es la causa más frecuente de limitación de actividad. Hay diferentes causas de lumbalgia siendo la enfermedad degenerativa lumbar la causa más común. Dentro de la causas menos frecuente de lumbalgia, se encuentra las asociadas quistes perineurales, llamados también quistes de Tarlov. La gran mayoría de los quistes de Tarlov son asintomáticos, su ubicación más frecuente es la región sacra. Algunos de ellos se tornan sintomáticos y requieren tratamiento. Se han descrito varias formas de manejo entre las cuales se encuentra la resección quirúrgica, la punción percutánea del quiste y las derivaciones quiste peritoneal o Lumboperitoneal. Hasta el momento, no hay consenso sobre cuál es la mejor forma de tratar éstas lesiones. En este artículo pretendemos mostrar una serie de 3 casos donde los pacientes fueron tratados con derivación lumboperitoneal con mejoría clínica completa. Se ha realizado una revisión de la literatura acerca del tratamiento de esta patología que es poco frecuente.

Lumbar pain is one of the causes of incapacity and limitation in our society. There are different causes of lumbar pain, having the degenerative cause being the most frequently found. Perineural cysts are a rare cause of incapacitating lumbar pain and the majority of these cysts are asymptomatic. There is a little information about the treatment of symptomatic perineural cysts. There has been described different treatment options which varies from surgical excision, cyst drainage and lumbar o cyst shunt to the peritoneal cavity. Till this moment there is no consensus on the optimal treatment of these lesions. In this article we want to show a small case series of 3 cases where these patients were treated with lumbo-peritoneal Shunt. This entire patient showed clinical improvement after the treatment. We will also review the literature regarding these rare lesions.

Transitional lumbosacral vertebrae and low back pain: diagnostic pitfalls and management of Bertolotti's syndrome / Dor lombar associada à vértebra de transição lombossacra: dificuldades no diagnóstico e manejo da síndrome de Bertolotti

OBJECTIVE: Bertolotti's syndrome is a spine disorder characterized by the occurrence of a congenital lumbar transverse mega-apophysis in a transitional vertebral body that usually articulates with the sacrum or the iliac bone. It has been considered a possible cause of low back pain. METHOD: We analyzed the cases of Bertolotti's syndrome that failed clinical treatment and reviewed the literature concerning this subject. RESULTS: Five patients in our series had severe low back pain due to the neo-articulation and two of them were successfully submitted to surgical resection of the transverse mega-apophysis. Taking into account the clinical and surgical experience acquired with these cases, we propose a diagnostic-therapeutic algorithm. CONCLUSION: There is still no consensus about the most appropriate therapy for Bertolotti's syndrome. In patients in whom the mega-apophysis itself may be the source of back pain, surgical resection may be a safe and effective procedure.

OBJETIVO: A síndrome de Bertolotti é uma desordem congênita da coluna vertebral caracterizada pela ocorrência de uma mega-apófise transversa lombar em uma vértebra de aspecto transicional, que geralmente se articula com o sacro ou com o osso ilíaco. Tal síndrome tem sido considerada possível causa de dor lombar. MÉTODO: Análise dos casos de síndrome de Bertolotti que apresentavam dor lombar sem melhora com tratamento conservador e revisão dos artigos publicados. RESULTADOS: Foram revisados cinco pacientes que não apresentaram melhora com o tratamento clínico, sendo que dois foram submetidos à ressecção cirúrgica da mega-apófise transversa. Considerando a experiência adquirida com estes casos, os autores propõem um algoritmo para diagnóstico e tratamento da Síndrome de Bertolotti. CONCLUSÃO: Ainda não há consenso sobre qual é a terapia mais apropriada para a Síndrome de Bertolotti. Em pacientes em que a mega-apófise parece ser a origem da lombalgia, a ressecção cirúrgica parece ser um procedimento seguro e efetivo.

Manejo quirúrgico del síndrome de Bertolotti: a propósito de un caso / Surgical management of the Bertolotti´s syndrome: case report

We present the case of a 31 year-old man with a story of chronic low back pain in the presence of a transitional lumbosacral vertebra with transverse mega apophysis articulating with the sacrum (Bertolotti´s syndrome). After unsuccessful conservative treatment, an anesthetic blockade in the transverse process and sacral ala joint was performed with complete but brief relief of pain. For that reason, a resection of the transverse process was performed. There is no agreement in the relationship between back pain and the presence of a mega-apophysis. Therefore, surgical treatment of this condition is even more controversial. In the absence of other pain generators, the known biomechanical dysfunction of lumbosacral transitional vertebra in conjunction with a positive injection test lead us to consider surgical resection of the mega-apophysis as an alternative treatment in refractory low back pain. The proven biomechanical alteration of lumbosacral transitional junction and the systematic searching of sources of pain through anesthetic blocks allows that in cases of refractory pain surgical treatment of the mega-apophysis can be an effective alternative.

Presentamos el caso de un paciente varón de 31 años con historia de dolor lumbar crónico mecánico portador de una anomalía de transición lumbosacra con mega-apófisis transversa articulada al ala sacra. El paciente luego de varios tratamientos médicos fallidos fue sometido a bloqueo anestésico de la pseudo articulación transverso sacra con alivio completo pero pasajero de su dolor. Finalmente, se realiza una resección de la mega apófisis con buenos resultados a corto y largo plazo. La relación entre dolor lumbar y la presencia de una mega-apófisis es controvertido. De igual forma el tratamiento quirúrgico consistente en resección de la mega-apófisis es más controvertido aún. La probada alteración biomecánica del segmento lumbosacro transicional junto al descarte sistemático de otras fuentes de dolor y la confirmación diagnóstica mediante bloqueos anestésicos permite plantear que en casos de dolor refractario a tratamiento conservador la resección de la mega-apófisis puede ser una alternativa eficaz.

Mini-open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the surgical technique and advantages of the mini-open transforaminal approach for lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) combined with transpedicular screw fixation. Clinical and radiographic results were assessed to determine the clinical outcomes in twelve consecutive patients selected for minimally invasive access (mini-open technique) for TLIF in Prasat Neurological Institute. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A retrospective analysis was performed on 12 patients (age range, 38-74 yr; mean, 54. 8 yr) who underwent mini-open transforaminal approach for lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) combined with transpedicular screw fixation between September 2006 and June 2008. The titanium pedicle screws were introduced bilaterally through the 3.5 cm length, skin incisions with Spine Classics MLD- system retractor, autologous bone graft were inserted to perform TLIF in all patients. Eight patients were augmented anterior column support with titanium interbody cage, unilateral cage insertion in four patients and the others were inserted bilaterally interbody cages. Six patients presented with low back pain and associated radiculopathy, and six presented with low back pain only. Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion was performed at L3-L4 in two patients, L4-L5 in four patients, L5-S1 in five patients, and two levels fusion in one patient. RESULTS: All patients were able to ambulate after spinal fusion. The patients were able to walk within 1.4 days (range 1-2 days). The hospital stay averaged 4.4 days (range 3-7 days). Periodic follow-up took place 1 to 21 months after surgery (mean, 7.4 months). The radiological fusion was archived in all nine patients who were operated on more than two months age. The other three patients who had been follow-up less than two months were probably fusion on the 1-month followed-up radiological examination. CONCLUSIONS: The use of mini-open technique for pedicle screw instrumentation with spinal fusion procedure provides excellent clinical results and may be an operation of choice for lumbar spinal fusion in selected patients.

Evaluación clínica y radiológica de la prótesis de núcleo discal Nubac: informe preliminar / Clinical and radiological follow-up of Nubac disc prosthesis: preliminary report

BACKGROUND: Lumbar arthroplasty is an alternative to fusion for the treatment of degenerative disc disease. Replacement of the nucleus pulposus preserves the biomechanical properties in the annulus and plates, conserving lumbar motion. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility and clinical and radiological findings at 3 months follow-up with the Nubac device. METHODS: Ten patients from the National Institute for Rehabilitation (INR, Mexico City) with degenerative disc disease were selected to participate in the study. They underwent discectomy with Nubac device with a follow-up period of 3 months. Evolution was evaluated with the VAS and Oswestry scales. RESULTS: Five men and five women were included in the study (average age 41.6 years). Surgical approach was anterolateral (4 patients), posterior (3 patients) and anterior (3 patients), VAS improved from 8.1 to 2.5 (p <0.05) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) improved from 58.2% to 24.2% (p <0.05). Disc height before surgery was 9.4 mm, and 3 months postoperatively was 12.5 mm with no complications, migration, or subsidence. CONCLUSIONS: Nubac prosthesis improved lumbar discogenic pain in a short time when evaluated using ODI and VAS scales. Disc height improved after a 3-month follow-up, but lumbar motion did not improve. No complications have been reported; however, a minimum follow-up of 4 years is needed to make a definite conclusion.