Early effects of spinal endoscopic fusion technology in the treatment of degenerative lumbar disease / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To report the early clinical effects and surgical complications of endoscopic spinal fusion technology （Endo-LIF） in the treatment of degenerative lumbar disease. 【Methods】 The clinical data of 31 patients with degenerative lumbar spine disease treated with Endo-LIF from June 2019 to May 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All the 31 patients underwent endoscopic spinal fusion therapy. We recorded the operation time， hospital stay duration， postoperative complications， visual analogue scale for pain （VAS）， oswestry dysfunction Index （ODI） and low back pain in the Chinese Orthopaedic Association Spine Group Surgery scoring standards before operation， immediately after operation， and the last follow-up to evaluate clinical efficacy. 【Results】 The operation time of the 31 patients was （134.80±34.98） min， the intraoperative blood loss was （100.13±18.49） mL， the hospital stay was （6.65±0.17） days， and the follow-up time was 6 to 18 （14±2.3） months. One patient had hematoma compression after surgery； he had incision made immediately to clear the hematoma and healed after bed rest. Two patients developed spinal hypertension and healed after bed rest. All the patients had no symptoms of nerve injury after operation， and the clinical symptoms were significantly relieved. We compared the perioperative VAS score and ODI index of all the patients， which were lower immediately after operation and at the last follow-up than those before the operation （P<0.05）， and the difference was statistically significant. 【Conclusion】 Endo-LIF technology has good short-term clinical effects and the advantages of milder trauma， less blood loss， and quick recovery after surgery. It is a safe and minimally invasive lumbar fusion surgery.

Analysis of early and middle stage efficacy and complications of oblique lumbar interbody fusion in treating degenerative lumbar diseases / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the early and middle stage efficacy and complications of minimally invasive extraperitoneal oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) in the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 22 patients with degenerative lumbar diseases underwent OLIF from October 2017 to March 2019 were retrospectively analyzed, including 14 males and 8 females, aged from 51 to 72 years with an average of (63.15±7.22) years. There were 6 cases of lumbar spinal stenosis, 5 cases of lumbar spondylolisthesis, 4 cases of adjacent vertebral disease, 3 cases of degenerative lumbar scoliosis, 3 cases of discogenic low back pain, and 1 case of recurrence after posterior lumbar decompression. Posterior minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation was performed in 13 cases and Stand-alone fixation in 9 cases. Intraoperative blood loss, operation time, postoperative drainage volume, landing time were recorded. The intervertebral disc height(IDH), intervertebral foramen height(IFH), intervertebral foramen area( IFA), canal diameter(CD), canal area(CA) were measured before and after operation. The imaging changes (including location of fusion cage, interbody fusion, and cage subsidence) and complications were observed. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), numerical rating scales (NRS) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores were compared before and 3, 6, 12 months after operation.@*RESULTS@#All 22 patients successfully completed the operation. The intraoperative blood loss was 25 to 280 ml with an average of (95.45±79.07) ml and that of simple anterior approach was 25 to 70 ml with an average of (45.71±15.42) ml. The operation time was 75 to 210 min with an average of (137.72±37.66) min, and the simple anterior operation time was 75 to 105 min with an average of (91.40±15.96) min. The total drainage volume was 10 to 110 ml with an average of (56.23±31.15) ml, and the time to go down to the ground was 24 to 72 hours (54.48±18.24) hours after operation. Postoperative IDH improved (6.63±2.61)mm(P<0.05), the IFH improved (5.35±2.47)mm (P<0.05), the IFA improved (97.67±33.58)mm2(P<0.05), the CD improved (3.31±1.61) mm(P<0.05), the CA improved (57.52±31.39) mm2(P<0.05). Five patients got interbody fusion at 6 months after operation and all 22 patients got interbody fusion at 12 months after operation. There was 5 cases of fusion cage subsidence, all of which occurred in the cases without posterior fixation(using Stand-alone fixation). There was no serious complication such as big blood vessel injury, ureter injury, dural sac injury and nerve root injury. Peritoneal injury occurred in 1 case, postoperative transient thigh pain, decrease of quadriceps femoris muscle strength in 4 cases and sympathetic nerve injury in 1 case. The symptoms of lumbago and radicular pain of lower extremities were alleviated obviously 3 days after operation. The ODI, NRS and JOA scores at 6, 12 months after operation were significantly improved(P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The treatment of lumbar degenerative diseases with definite indications by OLIF can achieve satisfactory clinical results, and it has advantages of less intraoperative bleeding, fast time to land, less complications, good imaging improvement and indirect decompression. But the operation time and fluoroscopy time are longer in the early stage, and complications such as peritoneal injury and lumbar plexus over traction may occur. The long-term incidence of settlement of fusion cage with Stand-alone technology is higher.

Analysis of lumbosacral sagittal balance parameter variation in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with real-time 3D navigation techniques / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the dynamic changes of lumbosacral sagittal parameters after real-time three-dimensional navigation assisted minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) and traditional open TLIF for treatment of lumbar degenerative disease.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 61 patients with lumbar degenerative disease underwent single-segment surgery from September 2017 to September 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 31 cases underwent MIS-TLIF with 3D navigation techniques (MIS-TLIF group) and another 30 cases underwent conventional open TLIF (traditional open TLIF group). The basic information, operative time and intraoperative blood loss were collected. The sagittal radiologic parameters were measured before surgery and 3 months after surgery, including lumbar lordosis (LL), segmental lordosis (SL), pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), anterior disc height (ADH), posterior disc height(PDH).And the average disc height(DH) and pelvic incidence to lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL) were calculated.@*RESULTS@#Operative time and intraoperative blood loss in MIS-TLIF group were significantly less than in traditional open TLIF group(@*CONCLUSION@#Real-time navigation-assisted MIS-TLIF and traditional open TLIF can recover DH in a short term for lumbar degenerative diseases, improve LL and PI-LL, and make the arrangement of the sagittal plane of the lumbosacral region more coordinated after surgery. But only the navigation assisted MIS -TLIF can significantly improve SL. Compared with traditional open TLIF, real-time navigation assisted MIS-TLIF in the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases has the advantages of short operation time and less intraoperative bleeding.

Research Progress and Joint Evaluation on Center of Rotation for Lumbar Vertebrae / 医用生物力学

In recent years, with the growth of social development, the incidence of lumbar vertebrae diseases has increased year by year, and many surgical methods have been developed. These treatment methods mark the accumulation of surgical experience and the development of medical technology. However, a new issue appears, i.e. how to evaluate the degree of lumbar disease and postoperative rehabilitation. There is an urgent need to establish a quantitative index of preoperative examination and postoperative rehabilitation criteria for lumbar disease from both doctors’ and patients’ perspectives. The current studies show that the measurement of the center of rotation (COR) for lumbar vertebrae and surface electromyography (sEMG) can reduce the error in the evaluation of clinical curative effect for treating lumbar disease and can be applied widely. This review summarizes the relationship between COR and lumbar disease, as well as the role of COR and sEMG joint evaluation in clinical operation and postoperative rehabilitation.

Minimally Invasive Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Indications, Outcomes and Complications / 대한정형외과학회잡지

The aim of this review was to evaluate minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion on the latest update. Lumbar interbody fusion was introduced recently. This study performed, a literature review of the indications, clinical outcomes, fusion rate, and complications regarding recently highlighted minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion. The indications of lateral lumbar interbody fusion are similar to the conventional anterior and posterior interbody fusion in degenerative lumbar diseases. In particular, lateral lumbar interbody fusion is an effective minimally invasive surgery in spinal stenosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, degenerative adult deformity, degenerative disc disease and adjacent segment disease. In addition, the clinical outcomes and fusion rates of lateral lumbar interbody fusion are similar compared to conventional lumbar fusion. On the other hand, non-specific complications including hip flexor weakness, nerve injury, vascular injury, visceral injury, cage subsidence and pseudohernia have been reported. Lateral lumbar interbody fusion is a very useful minimally invasive surgery because it has advantages over conventional anterior and posterior interbody fusion without many of the disadvantages. Nevertheless, nonspecific complications during lateral lumbar interbody fusion procedure remain a challenge to be improved.

A Retrospective Study Assessing Kampo Medicine for the Treatment of Lower Extremity Symptoms Caused by Lumbar Spinal Diseases / 日本東洋医学雑誌

We assessed the efficacy of Kampo medicine for lower extremity symptoms caused by lumbar spinal diseases, such as lumbar spondylosis, spinal canal stenosis, and post-spinal surgery syndrome. In particular, we evaluated its usefulness for lower extremity pain, coldness, and numbness. In addition, the efficacy of antecedent drug selection and pain treatment was also assessed. In accordance with Japanese traditional herbal medical practice, keishikajutsubuto, shimbuto, ryokyojutsukanto, tokishigyakukagoshuyushokyoto, goshajinkigan, and shakuyakukanzoto were prescribed primarily for lower extremity symptoms caused by lumbar disease. Thirty-two of 60 (53%) cases with lower extremity pain, 17 of 34 (50%) cases of pain with coldness, and 4 of 19 cases (21%) of pain with numbness were improved by these drugs. We conclude that the addition of keishikajutsubuto, shimbuto, ryokyojutsukanto, tokishigyakukagoshuyushokyoto, goshajinkigan, and shakuyakukanzoto after antecedent pain therapy was effective in treating lower extremity symptoms caused by lumbar disease.

Radiologic Features and Surgical Outcome of Juxtafacet Cyst Associated with Degenerative Lumbar Disease / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiologic features of juxtafacet cyst and determine the correlation between these features and clinical outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed a total of 23 patients. The degree of facet joint degeneration was classified using the Fujiwara method. The facet joint angles were measured with an magnetic resonance imaging to determine whether there was a difference between the cystic lesion that was occupied and the cystic lesion that was not occupied. Disc degeneration was measured by the Pfirrmann classification method. The clinical result was evaluated using the Oswestry disability index score and visual analogue scale. RESULTS: The L4–5 level of juxtafacet cyst was mostly affected, as found in previous studies. Facet joint arthritis was more severe within the side with the cystic lesion. Significant correlation was found between disc degeneration and juxtafacet joint cyst. All patients underwent wide decompression and fusion. Clinical result was excellent. No patients had signs of recurrence during the follow-up periods. CONCLUSION: Juxtafacet cyst has a significant correlation with facet joint degeneration. Therefore, aggressive surgical treatment—not just simple cyst excision—should be considered as the treatment option for juxtafacet cyst associated with degenerative lumbar disease.

The shor-term clinical outcomes and safety of extreme lateral interbody fusion combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for the treatment of degenerative lumbar disease / 中国骨伤

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the early efficacy and safety of extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for lumbar degenerative disease.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From January 2013 to June 2014, 13 patients with degenerative lumbar disease were treated with XLIF combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation, including 8 cases of lumbar instability, 5 cases of mild to moderate lumbar spondylolisthesis;there were 5 males and 8 females, aged from 56 to 73 years with an average of 62.1 years. All patients were single segment fusion. Operation time, perioperative bleeding and perioperative complications were recorded. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used to evaluate the clinical efficacy. Interbody fusion rate was observed and the intervertebral foramen area changes were compared preoperation and postoperation by X-rays and CT scanning.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The mean operation time and perioperative bleeding in the patients respectively was(62.8±5.2) min and(82.5±22.6) ml. One case occurred in the numbness of femoribus internus and 1 case occurred in the muscle weakness of hip flexion after operation, both of them recovered within 2 weeks. All the patients were followed up from 12 to 19 months with an average of 15.6 months. VAS was decreased from preoperative 7.31±0.75 to 2.31±0.75 at final follow-up(<0.05); ODI was decreased from preoperative (42.58±1.55)% to (12.55±0.84)% at final follow-up(<0.05). At final follow-up, CT scanning confirmed 8 cases completely fused and 5 cases partly fused;the intervertebral foramen area was increased from preoperative (94.86±2.44)mm2 to (150.70±7.02)mm2(<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Extreme lateral interbody fusion combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation is an ideal method and can obtain early good clinical effects in treating lumbar degenerative disease.</p>

Polymethylmethacrylate augmentation of bone cement injectable cannulated pedicle screws was used to treat degenerative lumbar scoliosis with osteoporosis / 北京大学学报(医学版)

Objective:To describe the application of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) augmentation of cement-injectable cannulated pedicle screws for the treatment of degenerative lumbar scoliosis with osteoporosis.Methods: Retrospective cohort study was used to compare cement injectable cannulated pedicle screws (CICPs) group with PMMA augmentation and control group with traditional method in the correction surgery for Lenke-silva level Ⅲ and level Ⅳ degenerative scoliosis cases with osteoporosis.Both groups were followed up for 1 year.The clinical results were assessed by visual analog scale (VAS) of pain on lumbar and lower limbers,Oswestry disability index (ODI) score and EuroQol-5 dimensions (EQ-5D) score.The coronal major curve Cobb angel in coronal plane and thoracic kyphosis Cobb angle,lumbar lordosis Cobb angle and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) in sagittal plane were tested in whole long spine X ray.The fusion rates were evaluated by lumbar X ray and dynamic X ray.Results: In this study 34 cases were enrolled,15 cases in CICPs group and 19 cases in control group.The general characteristics including age,gender,weight,height,BMI and BMD were without statistical difference between the two groups.There were (5.7±2.2)PMMA augmentation screws in CICPs group.The operation time,blood loss and blood transfusion were higher in CICPs group than in control group,but without statistical difference.Lumbar VAS,lower limbers VAS,ODI score and EQ-5D were all better in 1 month post-operation,6 months postoperation and 1 year postoperation than in preoperation in both groups.lumbar VAS scores of CICPs group in 6 months postoperation(CICPs group 3.1±1.3 vs.control group 4.4±1.4,P<0.01) together with lumbar VAS scores (CICPs group 3.3±1.0 vs.control group 5.2±1.4,P<0.01),ODI scores (CICPs group 22.7±17.2 vs.control group 31.4±18.5,P<0.01) and EQ-5D in 1 year postoperation (CICPs group 2.9±2.0 vs.control group 3.5±2.5,P<0.01)were lower than those of control group.The coronal major curve Cobb angels were all lower in 1 month postoperation,6 months postoperation and 1 year postoperation than in preoperation in both groups;thoracic kyphosis Cobb angle and lumbar lordosis Cobb angle were all higher in 1 month postoperation,6 months postoperation and 1 year postoperation than in preoperation in both groups.The coronal major curve Cobb angel was lower in CICPs group than that in control group in 1 year postoperation (CICPs group 17.6°±6.9° vs.control group 21.2°±7.2°,P<0.01)and thoracic kyphosis Cobb angle was higher in CICPs group than that in control group in 6 months postoperation (CICPs group-33.5°±8.8 °vs.control group-28.9°±8.3°,P<0.01)and 1 year postoperation(CICPs group-33.0°±8.1° vs.control group-26.3°±7.4°,P<0.01) together with lumbar lordosis Cobb angle were higher in CICPs group than that in control group in 1 year postoperation(CICPs group 26.4°±8.1° vs.control group 22.1°±7.3°,P<0.01).Conclusion: Polymethylmethacrylate augmentation of bone cement-injectable cannulated pedicle screws for the treatment of degenerative lumbar scoliosis with osteoporosis was effective and safe,the short-term clinical result was good.

Underlying CT anatomy and subtype diagnosis of iliac vein compression syndrome / 中华放射学杂志

Objective To explore the underlying anatomy of iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS) using CT, and discuss the imageological index for subtype diagnosis and potential clinical significance. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the imageological data of 69 IVCS patients from July, 2009 to June, 2014. According to CT findings, patients were categorized to simple IVCS (sIVCS, the iliac vein is compressed by only the anterior iliac artery, n=22), lumbar degeneration?related IVCS ( dIVCS, besides the iliac artery, the lower lumbar degenerative changes including osteophyte, protruded disc, etc. pressed the iliac vein from the back, n=33) and other IVCS causes (oIVCS, including tuberculosis, inflammation and fracture hematoma of the lumbar spine, n=14); meanwhile, 69 age? and sex?matched subjects was set as a control group. Evaluated indexes were onset age, course of lower limb swelling and pain, size of the iliac vein tunnel ahead lumbar (IVTAL), lower lumbar spine forward curvature angle (LLSCA), iliac vein?pressed signs by lower lumbar degeneration, compression sites, scope of deep venous thrombosis and interventional therapeutic effect. The differences of those indexes of various groups were compared. Data as onset age, course of disease, sizes of IVTAL and LLSCA were evaluated using variance analysis of the general linear model, with Bofferroni test correction for multiple comparisons. Data as iliac vein?pressed site, scope of venous embolism and therapeutic effect were assessed by crossing table χ2 test. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS17.0 software (SPSS company, Chicago, USA). Bilateral P≤0.05 were considered to be significant. Results The onset mean age was (61.5 ± 10.6) yr. in dIVCS, (42.3 ± 6.5)yr in sIVCS. and(53.1 ± 16.8)yr. in oIVCS with a significant difference ( F=11.030, P<0.01). Mean sagittal diameter of the IVTAL and LLSCA were(2.3±0.5)mm and(121.8±5.4)° in dIVCS and(2.5± 0.5)mm and(124.4 ± 3.9)° in sIVCS, respectively; which were smaller than those of control group [(6.4 ± 1.6)mm and(127.5 ± 7.3)° , respectively ] and oIVCS [(5.9 ± 2.3)mm and(129.5 ± 5.9)° , respectively ](F=125.275,P<0.01 for sigittal diameter and F=7.95,P<0.01 for LLSCA). The degenerative changes compressing the iliac vein of dIVCS had 41 sites of 33 patients which were respectively the discal forward protrusion or bulge (51%, 17/33), vertebral anterior osteophyte (50%, 16/33)and lower lumbar vertebrae slippage (19%,8/33). The compression sites of dIVCS located exactly anterior to the fifth lumbar(18/33, 56%), the intervertebral disk between the fourth and fifth lumbar(9/33, 26%), the right front (3/33, 9%) and left front (3/33, 9%) of the fifth lumbar, however, that of sIVCS sited the right front(14/22, 64%), exactly the front(4/22, 18%)of the fifth lumbar and exactly anterior(4/22, 18%)to the intervertebral disk between the fourth and fifth lumbar, with a significant difference of location distribution(χ2=19.305, P<0.01). In sIVCSs, deep vein thrombosis of all exceeded the iliac vein length and implicated the femoral vein by 27%(6/22)and the popliteal vein by 73%(16/22), while in dIVCSs 18%(6/33)patients had deep vein thrombosis in the iliac vein, 30%(10/33)in the femoral vein and 52%(17/33)in the popliteal vein, and in oIVCSs, 30%(4/14)patients had deep vein thrombosis in the iliac vein, 40%(6/14)in the femoral vein and 30%(4/14)in the popliteal vein, with a significant difference of thrombosis scope(χ2=9.28, P<0.01). 86%sIVCSs needed intravenous stent?implanted operation to obtain effective treatment, only 52%dIVCSs were performed stent?implanted operation for effective therapy, none of oIVCSs had stent?implanted operation before the iliac vein recanalization. Conclusion CT can precisely display the pathological anatomy features of different IVCS patients, which can potentially help clinicians plan accurate treatment strategy.

Minimally Invasive Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Surgical Technique and Review

STUDY DESIGN: Review of the current surgical technique and literature. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to review the surgical technique and the current evidence on minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: Spinal fusion is a useful method in the treatment of various degenerative lumbar diseases. Recently, minimally invasive LLIF has been developed, enabling spine surgeons to perform anterior interbody fusion in a minimally invasive manner. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Review of the surgical technique and the literature. RESULTS: Minimally invasive LLIF may reduce the incidence of complications of anterior lumbar interbody fusion. LLIF may restore disc height more effectively than posterior lumbar interbody fusion and indirectly decompress the neural canal without nerve root or dural retraction or perineural scaring. The current indications for LLIF are almost equivalent to those of anterior and posterior lumbar interbody fusion. Recent studies have reported no differences in the fusion rate or clinical outcomes between LLIF and the conventional anterior or posterior interbody fusion techniques. However, LLIF has nonspecific complications, such as anterior thigh pain and hip flexor weakness. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive LLIF is a promising surgical alternative to the conventional anterior or posterior fusion techniques. LLIF has the advantages of less intraoperative bleeding and soft tissue injury, and a faster return to work. However, postoperative nonspecific complications are problems that need to be addressed.

Restoration of Segmental Lordosis and Related Factors in Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Lumbar Disease

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: To analyze restoration of segmental lordosis and factors related to interbody fusion and the fusion rate with degenerative lumbar disease. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: Few studies have addressed the restoration of segmental lordosis and factors related to interbody fusion for degenerative lumbar disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Records of 43 patients treated by anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) or posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery from 2011 to 2013 were reviewed. ALIF used a metal cage with a 10degrees lordotic angle and PLIF used a metal cage with an 8degrees lordotic angle. Preoperative, postoperative, and at least 1 year outcomes were analyzed from radiographs. As a related factor, segmental flexibility, disc height, osteophytes, vaccuum disc, hypertrophic facet, spondylolisthesis, and endplate violation were analyzed. We also analyzed the bony union rate. RESULTS: The segmental lordotic angle was 4.67degrees before surgery, improved to 10.43degrees after surgery, and was 9.32degrees at the final follow-up. Comparing between the ALIF and PLIF at the L3-4 level in a similar number of patients revealed 7.24degrees and 4.61degrees restoration after ALIF and PLIF surgery, postoperatively. The difference was statistically significant (p=0.011). Segmental flexibility had a statistically significant positive correlation (p=0.013). Lower disc height and osteophytes limited restoration of segmental lordosis, but vaccuum disc was restored well after interbody fusion. Bony union was achieved in 92.8% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: Intebody fusion, especially ALIF surgery, results in acceptable restoration of segmental lordosis. Even with narrowed disc space or osteophytes, remained segmental flexibility is an important factor of segmental lordosis restoration.

Prevalence, Distribution, and Significance of Incidental Thoracic Ossification of the Ligamentum Flavum in Korean Patients with Back or Leg Pain : MR-Based Cross Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE: Thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) is a relatively rare disease. Because of ambiguous clinical symptom, it is difficult for early diagnosis of OLF and subsequent treatment can be delayed or missed. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to comprehensively assess the prevalence and distribution of thoracic OLF by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and coexisting spinal disease in Korean patients with back pain or leg pain. METHODS: The sample included 2134 Korean patients who underwent MRI evaluation for back pain. The prevalence and distribution of thoracic OLF were assessed using lumbar MRI with whole spine sagittal images. Additionally, we examined the presence of coexisting lumbar and cervical diseases. The presence of thoracic OLF as well as clinical parameters such as age, sex, and surgery were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The prevalence of thoracic OLF in total patients was 16.9% (360/2134). The prevalence tended to increase with aging and was higher in women than in men. The lower thoracic segment of T10-11 was the most frequently affected segment. Of the 360 patients with OLF, 31.9% had coexisting herniated thoracic discs at the same level. Approximately 74% of the patients with OLF had coexisting lumbar and cervical disease. Nine (2.5%) of 360 OLF patients underwent surgery for thoracic lesion. CONCLUSION: The prevalenceof thoracic OLF was relatively higher than those of previous reports. And coexisting lumbar and cervical disease were very frequent. Therefore, we should check coexisting spinal diseases and the exact diagnostic localization of ossification besides lumbar disease.

Necessity of Whole Spine Standing Lateral Radiograph in Adults over 50 Years Old Who Have Degenerative Lumbar Disease: Comparison with Supine Lumbar Lateral Radiograph

STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. OBJECTIVES: Sagittal imbalance cannot be predicted depending on the degree of lumbar lordosis. Thus, we tried to evaluate the necessity of whole spine standing lateral radiograph through comparison of the spinal and pelvic parameter between supine lumbar lateral radiograph and whole spine standing lateral radiograph. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: No studies in the literature compare supine lumbar lateral radiograph and whole spine standing lateral radiograph. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We randomly selected 50 males and 50 females among the patients over the age of 50 who visited our hospital for outpatient due to degenerative lumbar disease. Lumbar lordosis (sLL/wLL), sacral slope (sSS/wSS), and pelvic tilt (sPT/wPT) were measured and compared respectively by supine lumbar lateral radiograph and whole spine standing lateral radiograph. We categorized as group AI (sLL or =30degrees) by supine lumbar lateral radiograph and analyzed them. We also categorized as group BI (SVA5 cm) by whole spine standing lateral radiograph and analyzed them. RESULTS: There were no statistical difference in lumbar lordosis (sLL/wLL: 35.1degrees/37.7degrees) and pelvic parameter (sSS/wSS: 32degrees/31.7degrees, sPT/wPT: 24.3degrees/24.2degrees. sPI/wPI: 56.3degrees/58.2degrees) between supine lumbar lateral radiograph and whole spine standing lateral radiograph, and there were also no statistical difference between two groups (group AI & AII) in SVA, lumbar lordosis and pelvic parameter. Pelvic parameter compared by supine lumbar lateral radiograph and whole spine standing lateral radiograph based on sagittal balance was no significant difference, but lumbar lordosis appeared statistical difference. CONCLUSION: Sagittal imbalance appears quite a lot in patients with degenerative lumbar disease and supine lateral radiograph can't reflect the whole sagittal imbalance. So, whole spine standing lateral radiograph should be performed routinely to analyze the sagittal alignment.

Posterior Interspinous Fusion Device for One-Level Fusion in Degenerative Lumbar Spine Disease : Comparison with Pedicle Screw Fixation - Preliminary Report of at Least One Year Follow Up

OBJECTIVE: Transpedicular screw fixation has some disadvantages such as postoperative back pain through wide muscle dissection, long operative time, and cephalad adjacent segmental degeneration (ASD). The purposes of this study are investigation and comparison of radiological and clinical results between interspinous fusion device (IFD) and pedicle screw. METHODS: From Jan. 2008 to Aug. 2009, 40 patients underwent spinal fusion with IFD combined with posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). In same study period, 36 patients underwent spinal fusion with pedicle screw fixation as control group. Dynamic lateral radiographs, visual analogue scale (VAS), and Korean version of the Oswestry disability index (K-ODI) scores were evaluated in both groups. RESULTS: The lumbar spine diseases in the IFD group were as followings; spinal stenosis in 26, degenerative spondylolisthesis in 12, and intervertebral disc herniation in 2. The mean follow up period was 14.24 months (range; 12 to 22 months) in the IFD group and 18.3 months (range; 12 to 28 months) in pedicle screw group. The mean VAS scores was preoperatively 7.16+/-2.1 and 8.03+/-2.3 in the IFD and pedicle screw groups, respectively, and improved postoperatively to 1.3+/-2.9 and 1.2+/-3.2 in 1-year follow ups (p<0.05). The K-ODI was decreased significantly in an equal amount in both groups one year postoperatively (p<0.05). The statistics revealed a higher incidence of ASD in pedicle screw group than the IFD group (p=0.029). CONCLUSION: Posterior IFD has several advantages over the pedicle screw fixation in terms of skin incision, muscle dissection and short operative time and less intraoperative estimated blood loss. The IFD with PLIF may be a favorable technique to replace the pedicle screw fixation in selective case.

Long-term Follow-up (Minimum 5 Years) Study of Single-level Posterior Dynamic Stabilization in Lumbar Degenerative Disease; 'Interspinous U' & 'DIAM'

OBJECTIVES: Recently posterior dynamic stabilizations (PDS) are increased in degenerative lumbar disease. But, some previous studies had doubts its long term prognosis. Long term clinical and radiological results of PDS using interspinous device (Interspinous U, DIAM) were analyzed. METHODS: We have used the 'interspinous U' and 'DIAM' for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. We included single level lumbar spinal stenosis patients who completed minimum 60 months follow-up evaluation. All patients checked plain lateral and flexion-extension views at immediately after the surgery and each follow-up. The clinical outcome was measured by Odom's criteria. Complications including post operative infection, bony erosion, device fracture, device malformations, and instabilities were surveyed. RESULTS: We included 18 for 'Interspinous U' and 7 patients 'DIAM' groups. Mean follow-up durations for 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' were 74.6 and 62.6 months, respectively. Satisfactory groups were 50.0% and 42.9 % for 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' groups. In 'Interspinous U' group disc height ratio increased transiently in immediate postoperative period (from 0.18 to 0.21) and then, decreased significantly in last follow-up (0.18). In 'DIAM' group, disc height ratio increased transiently in immediate postoperative period (from 0.18 to 0.19), and then decreased significantly in the last follow-up (0.16). Three (16.7%) and two (28.6%) patients undergo on a re-operation due to severe back pain in 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' groups. CONCLUSION: Long term follow up 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' group showed low patient satisfaction and poor radiological outcomes. To ascertain the benefit of PDS compare with posterior screw fixation, prospective analysis with larger population and multi-center study will be needed.

Long-term Follow-up (Minimum 5 Years) Study of Single-level Posterior Dynamic Stabilization in Lumbar Degenerative Disease; 'Interspinous U' & 'DIAM'

OBJECTIVES: Recently posterior dynamic stabilizations (PDS) are increased in degenerative lumbar disease. But, some previous studies had doubts its long term prognosis. Long term clinical and radiological results of PDS using interspinous device (Interspinous U, DIAM) were analyzed. METHODS: We have used the 'interspinous U' and 'DIAM' for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. We included single level lumbar spinal stenosis patients who completed minimum 60 months follow-up evaluation. All patients checked plain lateral and flexion-extension views at immediately after the surgery and each follow-up. The clinical outcome was measured by Odom's criteria. Complications including post operative infection, bony erosion, device fracture, device malformations, and instabilities were surveyed. RESULTS: We included 18 for 'Interspinous U' and 7 patients 'DIAM' groups. Mean follow-up durations for 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' were 74.6 and 62.6 months, respectively. Satisfactory groups were 50.0% and 42.9 % for 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' groups. In 'Interspinous U' group disc height ratio increased transiently in immediate postoperative period (from 0.18 to 0.21) and then, decreased significantly in last follow-up (0.18). In 'DIAM' group, disc height ratio increased transiently in immediate postoperative period (from 0.18 to 0.19), and then decreased significantly in the last follow-up (0.16). Three (16.7%) and two (28.6%) patients undergo on a re-operation due to severe back pain in 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' groups. CONCLUSION: Long term follow up 'Interspinous U' and 'DIAM' group showed low patient satisfaction and poor radiological outcomes. To ascertain the benefit of PDS compare with posterior screw fixation, prospective analysis with larger population and multi-center study will be needed.

Correction of Coronal Imbalance in Degenerative Lumbar Spine Disease Following Direct Lateral Interbody Fusion (DLIF)

OBJECTIVE: The authors have recently been using a surgical technique of minimally invasive direct lateral interbody fusion (DLIF) for correcting of coronal imbalance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcome and complication of DLIF. METHODS: We undertook retrospective analysis of a consecutive series of 8 DLIF procedures in Degenerative lumbar spine disease since May 2011. Four patients underwent DLIF only, and the others underwent combined DLIF and posterior fixation. Data on intra- and postoperative complications were collected. The pre- and postoperative X-rays were reviewed. We investigated coronal deformity, Cobb's angle, and apical vertebral translation (AVT). The mean follow-up period was months with a range of 2 to 8 months. RESULTS: A mean preoperative coronal Cobb's angle was 21.8degrees (range 11.5-32.4degrees). Following after DLIF, the mean Cobb's angle was decreased to 13.0degrees (range 2.9-21.5degrees). Following additional posterior screw fixation, mean Cobb's angle was further decreased to 7.4degrees (range 2.9-13.2degrees). A mean preoperative AVT was 2.0 cm(range 0.6-3.5 cm), and improved to 1.4 cm(range 0.3-2.4 cm) and 0.8 cm(range 0.2-1.8 cm) postoperatively (DLIF and, posterior fixation respectively). One patient (12.5%) showed cage migration during follow-up period. Two patients (25%) developed motor weakness, and 4 patients (50%) experienced postoperative thigh paresthesias or dysesthesias. During follow up period, motor weakness had resolved in 1 patient. Sensory symptoms were improved in all patients at the last follow-up. CONCLUSION: Degenerative lumbar disease can be effectively corrected by DLIF with acceptable complications.

Validity of Repeated MRI in Degenerative Lumbar Disease with Conservative Management / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: This study examined the value and indications of repeated MRI in degenerative lumbar diseases under conservative management by comparing the primary MR and repeated MR images with respect to the symptomatic and radiological changes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy patients with degenerative lumbar disease under conservative management underwent repeat MRI. Five MRI findings, including disc, foramen, facet joint, nerve root, and ligamentum flavum, were used to examine the difference between the initial and repeat MRI. The severity was graded using a four-point scale for each item. The patients were divided into 3 groups in order to compare the radiological changes and symptomatic changes, as follows; Group I no change from the initial symptoms (38 cases), Group II aggravation of the initial pain (18 cases), and Group III aggravation of the initial neurology or the development of a new neurology (14 cases). RESULTS: The mean scores of each item the disc, foramen, facet joint, nerve root and ligamentum flavum increased from 1.76, 1.31-1.79, 1.71, and 1.47, respectively, to 1.90, 1.47, 1.80, 1.79, and 1.53, respectively. Group III showed the greatest proportion of cases with an increasing grading score (78%, 11 cases) only the disc was significant. CONCLUSION: Repeat MRI in degenerative lumbar disease under conservative management was found to be valuable only in cases with aggravated neurological symptoms, and was not relevant in cases with persistent symptoms or aggravated pain alone.

Preliminary Report on Usefulness of Adjacent Interspinous Stabilization using Interspinous Spacer Combined with Posterior Lumbosacral Spinal Fusion in Degenerative Lumbar Disease

OBJECTIVE: Posterior lumbar or lumbosacral spinal fusion in degenerative lumbar disease has the problems of adjacent level disease as well as surgical complications. An interspinous device used for dynamic stabilization can also be applied to the adjacent segment for spinal fusion to reduce the severity of these problems. The authors reviewed the adjacent interspinous stabilization using an interspinous spacer(CoflexTM paradigm spine,Germany) combined with posterior lumbar or lumbosacral spinal fusion in degenerative lumbar disease. Method: From January 2007 to July 2008, ten patients with degenerative lumbar disease underwent posterior lumbar or lumbosacral spinal fusion with adjacent interspinous stabilization using CoflexTM. The indications for this type were adjacent segmental disc protrusion, adjacent segmental degenerative changes or high surgical risk groups, such as elderly patients or osteoporotic patients undergoing multiple leveled fusions. CoflexTM was inserted into the adjacent segmental interspinous space. The control group consisted of fifteen patients, who underwent posterior lumbar or lumbosacral spinal fusion without interspinous stabilization. The radiological parameters and clinical outcomes were compared. All patients were followed-up for more than twelve months. RESULTS: The visual analogue scale(VAS) in both groups postoperatively and at the twelve month follow-up were improved. In the CoflexTM group, the postoperative and twelve month follow-up X-ray showed no significant change in posterior disc height, interpedicular height, segmental lordotic angle, flextion-extension angulation and translation and no significant segmental instability. The control group showed a higher level of segmental lordotic angle, translation and a lower posterior disc height, interpedicular height, flextion-extension angulation and three patients showed adjacent segmental instability. CONCLUSION: CoflexTM can be used to stabilize the adjacent segment of spinal fusion in degenerative lumbar disease and might be effective in preventing adjacent segmental degeneration. However, further study will be needed to confirm this observation.