Recurrent lumbar-origin osteoblastoma treated with multiple surgery and carbon ion radiotherapy: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Although osteoblastoma is an uncommon benign bone tumor, it sometimes behaves in a locally aggressive fashion. We herein report a case of recurrent lumbar spine osteoblastoma that was treated by repeated surgery and carbon ion radiotherapy. CASE PRESENTATION: A 13-year-old Japanese girl presented with left side lumbar pain. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine demonstrated a tumorous lesion in the left side pedicle of L4. Although gross total resection of the mass, including the nidus, was performed in the initial surgery, recurrence was observed repeatedly in the short term and the pathological diagnosis of all of the resected tumors was conventional osteoblastoma. We finally performed carbon ion radiotherapy after the patient's 3rd palliative operation, and achieved a good outcome. No further recurrence has been observed in 10 years of follow-up. CONCLUSION: We performed carbon ion radiotherapy for a case of recurrent spinal osteoblastoma and achieved a good outcome without recurrence at 10 years after carbon ion radiotherapy treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of osteoblastoma that was treated with carbon ion radiotherapy after multiple surgeries.

A Retrospective Analysis of Subaxial Subluxation After Atlanto-axial Arthrodesis in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis Based on Annual Radiographs Obtained for 5 Years.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of subaxial subluxation (SAS) after atlanto-axial arthrodesis in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients using annual radiographs obtained for 5 years and clarify the characteristics of SAS after surgery. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Rheumatoid SAS has been reported to occur after atlanto-axial arthrodesis. Many authors have noted that excessive correction of the atlanto-axial angle (AAA) results in a decrease in subaxial lordosis, thereby inducing SAS; therefore, we paid special attention to acquiring a suitable AAA in patients with atlanto-axial arthrodesis. METHODS: Twenty-five patients with AAS treated with surgery were reviewed. In all patients, lateral cervical radiographs were obtained in neutral, maximal flexion, and maximal extension positions every year for 5 years after surgery. We investigated the occurrence and progression of SAS using these annual radiographs. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between preoperative and postoperative value in AAA and subaxial angle (SAA), respectively. Before surgery, SAS was found in 10 patients. The occurrence and progression of SAS after surgery was found in 12 cases (SAS P+ group). There were no significant differences in age, sex, or the duration of RA between the SAS P+ group and the remaining 13 cases. We also found no differences in the preoperative and postoperative AAA and SAA between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although SAA was maintained after atlanto-axial arthrodesis in RA-AAS patients, 12 of 25 patients (48%) with AAS developed SAS after atlanto-axial fusion. Further surgery was not needed for SAS up to 5 years after the initial surgery. We did not find any relationship between the occurrence of SAS and the AAA and SAA before and after surgery. Therefore, our findings suggest that proper reduction of AAA in patients with atlanto-axial arthrodesis does not affect the occurrence of SAS at 5 years after surgery.

Retrospective review of 22 surgically treated adults with congenital anomalies of the upper cervical spine: a clinical and radiological review.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to clarify the characteristics of adult cases with instability due to upper cervical spine anomalies who needed fusion surgery regarding the clinical and radiological findings. METHODS: Twenty-two consecutive patients with instability due to upper cervical spine anomaly in adult cases were reviewed. The congenital anomalies included idiopathic atlanto-axial subluxation in nine cases, os odontoideum in seven cases, occipitalization of the atlas in four cases, atlanto-occipital subluxation in one case and AAS with another anomaly in one case. We evaluated the severity of neurological symptoms before surgery and at the last follow-up. We also observed MR images before and 1 year after surgery. RESULTS: Before surgery, the 22 patients included seven Ranawat Grade I cases, ten Ranawat Grade II cases, and five Ranawat Grade IIIa cases. Regarding the neurological status after surgery, those included eighteen Ranawat Grade I cases, three Ranawat Grade II cases, and one Ranawat Grade IIIa case. Preoperative T2-weighted MR images demonstrated intramedullary high signal intensity (IHSI) in 12 cases. IHSI group did not include significantly more Ranawat Grade IIIa cases compared to the remaining 10 cases. In postoperative MR images (nine cases), the regression or disappearance of IHSI was demonstrated in only three cases. CONCLUSIONS: In adult cases with instability due to upper cervical spine anomalies, we acquired favorable clinical outcomes after surgery. Regarding the neurological severity before surgery, there was no relationship with the IHSI on T2-weighted MR image. Moreover, the regression or disappearance of IHSI after surgery was not frequently demonstrated.

A cadaveric study of the cervical nerve roots and spinal segments.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to anatomically measure the width of the cervical nerve root and spinal cord segment in addition to clarifying the anatomical characteristics of the cervical nerve root. METHODS: We assessed 132 cervical nerve roots obtained from 11 cadavers. A total of 11 cervical spines from C3 to C8 were directly evaluated using digital calipers. The patients from whom the cadaveric specimens were obtained ranged from 79 to 90 years of age at the time of death. Four measurements were taken: the width at the entry of the spinal nerve in the vertebral foramen (WE), the maximum width of the spinal nerve (MW) and the length of the spinal segment on the ventral (LV) and dorsal rootlets (LD). RESULTS: The mean values of the WE from C3 to C8 were 5.5, 5.6, 6.0, 5.8, 4.8 and 4.3 mm, respectively. The value of C8 was significantly smaller than that of C3, C4, C5 and C6. The mean values of the MW from C3 to C8 were 5.6, 6.0, 6.4, 6.7, 6.3 and 6.0 mm, respectively. The mean values of the LV from C3 to C8 were 12.1, 12.5, 12.6, 12.7, 11.8 and 10.6 mm, respectively. The value of C8 was significantly narrower than that of C4, C5 and C6. The mean values of the LD from C3 to C8 were 12.1, 13.3, 13.6, 12.2, 11.0 and 10.6 mm, respectively. The value of C8 was significantly narrower than that of C4 and C5. CONCLUSIONS: We anatomically measured the width of cervical nerve roots and spinal segments. The spinal segment of C8 was significantly narrower than some of the roots located in the middle of the cervical spine, and this characteristic continued to the entry of the root in the vertebral foramen, although the difference disappeared at the maximum width point of the root.

The relationship between an intramedullary high signal intensity and the clinical outcome in atlanto-axial subluxation owing to rheumatoid arthritis.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: In patients affected by cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), numerous authors have reported the existence of a relationship among the intramedullary high signal intensity in T2-weighted MRIs, preoperative neurologic severity, and neurologic recovery after surgery; however, to our knowledge, there have been no previous reports that have described its relationship in patients with atlanto-axial subluxation (AAS) owing to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to clarify the characteristics of patients with AAS owing to RA showing intramedullary high signal intensity in T2-weighted MRIs, and to assess the relationship with the neurologic severity and neurologic recovery after surgery. STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective cohort study. PATIENTS SAMPLE: Fifty consecutive patients (37 females and 13 males) with AAS treated by surgery were reviewed. OUTCOME MEASURES: The outcome was determined 1 year after surgery. METHODS: According to preoperative T2-weighted MRIs, the patients were classified into two groups as follows: An NC group not showing any signal intensity change on sagittal images, and an SI group showing signal intensity changes with narrowing of the spinal cord. In all patients, we investigated the atlanto-dental distance (ADD) and the space available for the spinal cord (SAC) at the neutral position and the maximal flexion position in lateral cervical radiographs before surgery. We also observed MRIs 1 year after surgery in the SI group. We evaluated the severity of neurologic symptoms before and 1 year after surgery in all patients. RESULTS: Preoperative T2-weighted MRIs demonstrated NC in 38 cases and SI in 12 cases. The preoperative average ADD at the neutral position in the NC and SI groups was 6.4 and 10.2 mm, respectively (p<.01). The preoperative ADD at the maximal flexion position in the two groups were 10.8 and 13.8 mm, respectively (p<.01). The preoperative average SAC at the neutral position in the NC and SI groups were 17.6 and 13.8 mm, respectively (p<.01). The SAC at the maximal flexion position in the two groups were 14.3 and 10.8 mm, respectively (p<.01). The SI group included significantly more Ranawat grade III cases showing severe neurologic deficits compared to the NC group (p<.01). However, there were no differences between the two groups regarding the number of patients with Ranawat grade III status after surgery (p>.65). On MRIs 1 year after surgery, the regression or disappearance of the signal intensity change in T2-weighted images was demonstrated in four and seven cases, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative ISHI in T2-weighted MRIs in RA-induced AAS patients was demonstrated in patients showing an enlargement of the ADD and a narrowing of the SAC. This affected the preoperative neurologic severity, but not the postoperative severity, which was in contrast to CSM patients. Furthermore, the regression or disappearance of ISHI was demonstrated in all of the cases after surgery. It is therefore speculated that RA AAS patients may have both dynamic instability and stenosis.

Wrist drop and muscle weakness of the fingers induced by an upper cervical spine anomaly.

PURPOSE: This report presents a case of wrist drop and muscle weakness of the fingers as a false localizing sign induced by stenosis of the upper cervical spine caused by a bony anomaly. METHODS: A 77-year-old male complained of severe muscle weakness of the right hand. Cervical spine MRI showed a severe and sharp compression of the spinal cord from the dorsal side between C2 and C3 with intramedullary intensity changes and mild stenosis at C3/4 and C4/5. RESULTS: The patient underwent laminectomy of C2, cranial side laminotomy of C3, and laminectomy of C4. Decompression of the spinal cord was demonstrated 1 year after surgery. The patient achieved full recovery of the muscle weakness 1 year after undergoing surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The pathophysiology of false localizing signs remains controversial; however, we believe that this unusual compression pattern and level had the possibility to induce atypical myelopathies such as drop hand and finger of the unilateral hand in this case.

An analysis of the anatomic features of the cervical spine using computed tomography to select safer screw insertion techniques.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the anatomic features of the cervical spine using computed tomography (CT) to select safer screw insertion techniques, particularly emphasizing the location of the transverse foramen. METHODS: Fifty patients who underwent multiplanar CT reconstruction were evaluated. There were 34 males and 16 females with an average age of 67 years. The parameters included the following measurements: foramen width (the size of the transverse foramen FW), foramen height (the size of the transverse foramen FH), pedicle width (PW), foramen angle (FA the position of the transverse foramen), pedicle transverse angle (PTA) and lateral mass angle (LMA). RESULTS: The mean FW ranged from 6.2 to 6.3 mm (n.s). The mean FH ranged from 5.0 to 5.7 mm, with significant differences between each vertebra, except for the FH between C4 and C5 and the FH between C5 and C6. The mean PW ranged from 5.4 to 6.1 mm. There were significant differences between each vertebra, except for the PW between C3 and C4 and the PW between C3 and C5. The mean FA ranged from 18.8° to 20.5°. There were significant differences between each vertebra, except for the FA between C3 and C6 and the FA between C4 and C5. The mean PTA ranged from 37.1° to 45.4°. There were significant differences between each vertebra, except for the PTA between C3 and C5. The mean LMA ranged from 1.0° to 5.3°. There were significant differences between each vertebra, except for the LMA between C4 and C5. The FW and FH exhibited no correlations with PW, PTA or LMA. FA was found to be positively correlated with both PTA and LMA. There was also a positive correlation between PTA and LMA. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that in cases in which pedicle screw insertion is difficult, lateral mass screws (LMS) can be inserted safely and longer sizes can be selected. In contrast, in cases in which LMS insertion is difficult, the insertion of pedicle screws can be performed relatively easy.

Effect of a reduction of the atlanto-axial angle on the cranio-cervical and subaxial angles following atlanto-axial arthrodesis in rheumatoid arthritis.

PURPOSE: We retrospectively investigated the radiographic findings in patients with atlanto-axial subluxation (AAS) due to rheumatoid arthritis, and clarified the effect of reduction of the atlanto-axial angle (AAA) on the cranio-cervical and subaxial angles. METHODS: Forty-one patients, consisting of 29 females and 12 males, with AAS treated by surgery were reviewed. The average patient age at surgery was 61.0 years, and the average follow-up period was 4.0 years. We investigated the AAA at the neutral position in lateral cervical radiographs before surgery and at the last follow-up. In addition, we also investigated the clivo-axial angle (CAA) and the subaxial angle (SAA) at the neutral position before and after surgery. RESULTS: Due to pre-operative AAA, the patients were classified into three groups as follows: (1) the kyphotic group (K group), (2) the neutral group (N group), and (3) the lordotic group (L group). The average AAA values at the neutral position in the K group before and after surgery were 6.0° and 18.1°, respectively (P < 0.001). In the N group 19.7° and 21.7°, respectively (P < 0.05), and in the L group 31.6° and 27.0°, respectively (P < 0.01). However, no significant differences in the average CAA values were found before and after surgery in all groups. Furthermore, no significant differences in the SAA values were seen before and after surgery in all groups. CONCLUSIONS: A proper reduction of the AAA did not affect the cranial angles or induce kyphotic malalignment of the subaxial region after atlanto-axial arthrodesis. However, if we can obtain a significant and large reduction of AAA in patients showing kyphosis before surgery, then this reduction will be offset in the atlanto-occipital joint and we should therefore pay special attention to its morphology after surgery.

Characteristics of idiopathic atlanto-axial subluxation: a comparative radiographic study in patients with an idiopathic etiology and those with rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: Atlanto-axial subluxation (AAS) is caused by multiple conditions; however, idiopathic AAS patients without RA, upper-cervical spine anomalies or any other disorder are rarely encountered. This study retrospectively investigated the radiographic findings in idiopathic AAS patients, and clarified the differences between those AAS patients and those due to RA. METHODS: Fifty-three patients with AAS treated by transarticular screw fixation were reviewed. The subjects included 8 idiopathic patients (ID group) and 45 RA patients (RA group). The study investigated the atlanto-dental interval (ADI) value and space available for spinal cord (SAC) at the neutral and maximal flexion position. RESULTS: The average ADI value at the neutral position in the ID and RA groups before surgery was 7.8 and 7.2 mm, respectively (p > 0.74). The average ADI value at the flexion position in the two groups was 10.3 and 11.7 mm, respectively (p > 0.06). The average SAC value at the neutral position in the two groups was 12.0 and 17.1 mm, respectively (p < 0.01). Finally, the average SAC value at the flexion position in the two groups was 10.7 and 13.5 mm, respectively (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The SAC value at both the neutral and flexion positions in idiopathic AAS patients was significantly smaller than those values in RA-AAS patients. This may be because the narrowing of the SAC in the idiopathic group easily induces cervical myelopathy. Furthermore, surgery was often recommended to RA patients, because of the neck pain induced by RA-related inflammation of the atlanto-axial joint, regardless of any underlying myelopathy.

Associations between neck and shoulder pain (called katakori in Japanese) and sagittal spinal alignment parameters among the general population.

BACKGROUND: Neck and shoulder pain (NSP), called katakori in Japanese, is one of the most common medical symptoms in the Japanese population; however, the pathogenesis of NSP has not yet been adequately elucidated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between NSP and sagittal spinal alignment among the general population in Japan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical examinations were conducted in the northeast village of Gunma, Japan. A questionnaire regarding NSP was distributed among 329 Japanese subjects (125 men and 204 women). Regarding the prevalence of NSP, the participants were asked to report the occurrence of NSP over the previous two weeks. For each participant, the parameters for sagittal spinal alignment, including thoracic kyphosis angle, lumbar lordosis angle, and spinal inclination relative to a perpendicular line, were measured with a SpinalMouse(®) (Idiag, Vplkerswill, Switzerland), an electronic computer-aided measuring device. We investigated the associations between the prevalence of NSP and the parameters obtained with the SpinalMouse(®). Statistical analyses were performed using Student's t test, Welch's t test, the chi-squared test, and a multivariate logistic regression analysis. A P value of 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of NSP within the two weeks prior to questioning was 52.0 % (171 of 329 subjects). The subjects in the NSP group were significantly younger than those in the non-NSP group. There was a significant gender difference between the NSP group and the non-NSP group, as significantly more females complained of NSP than males. No significant association between the thoracic kyphosis angle and NSP was observed. However, the lumbar lordosis angles measured in the subjects in the NSP group were significantly larger than those in the non-NSP group, and the inclinations relative to a perpendicular line measured in the subjects in the NSP group were significantly larger than those in the non-NSP group. Furthermore, we performed a logistic regression analysis on each factor that showed a significant difference; age, gender, and the lumbar lordosis angle were each found to be significant. CONCLUSIONS: We investigated the associations between NSP and spinal sagittal alignment using the SpinalMouse(®) system, and demonstrated that some spinal alignment parameters are associated with NSP.

Anatomy of subaxial cervical foramens: the safety zone for lateral mass screwing.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to measure the structures of the ventral of lateral masses using cadaver specimens and to quantitatively compare the safety zone for the two major techniques used on each vertebral level from C3 to C6. METHODS: This study is based on 52 cervical vertebrae of 13 cadavers. The anatomical measurements focused on the anterior surface of the lateral mass. We investigated the safety width, heights, and the height of nerve roots. RESULTS: The mean values of the safety width of the Magerl technique from C3 to C6 were 6.1, 7.3, 6.4 and 4.3 mm, respectively. The mean values of the safety width of the Roy-Camille technique were 6.7, 6.6, 5.8 and 5.4 mm, respectively. The mean values of the safety height of the Magerl technique were 5.0, 5.4, 5.8 and 5.2 mm, respectively. The mean values of the safety height of the Roy-Camille technique were 4.9, 4.0, 1.0 and -1.2 mm, respectively. The mean values of the nerve root height were 3.9, 4.9, 5.9 and 6.9 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION: The safety width of the Magerl technique was shorter at C6 because the vertebral artery runs more laterally at C6. The height for the Magerl technique was not significantly different from C3 to C6, however, the safety height for the Roy-Camille technique was significantly shorter at C5 and C6. Our findings suggest that it is important to ensure that the screw(s) penetrate through the cranial side of the ventral aspect of a lateral mass when performing the Magerl technique at all vertebral levels, and to carefully select the screw length when using the Roy-Camille technique, especially at C5 and C6, in order to avoid nerve root injury.

Non-traumatic posterior atlanto-occipital joint dislocation.

This report presents a case of non-traumatic posterior atlanto-occipital dislocation. A 36-year-old female was referred with a history of numbness of the extremities, vertigo and neck pain for 1 year. The patient had no history of trauma. The axial rotation of range of motion of the cervical spine was severely restricted. A lateral cervical radiograph in the neutral position demonstrated a posterior atlanto-occipital dislocation. A coronal view on a computed tomography (CT) reconstruction image showed a loss of angle of the bilateral atlanto-occipital joint, and a sagittal reconstruction view of CT images also demonstrated flatness of atlanto-occipital joint. Instrumented occipito-cervical fusion was performed after reduction. A lateral cervical radiograph in the neutral position 1 year after surgery showed the reduction of atlanto-occipital joint, moreover, it was maintained even in an extended position. The patient had neurologic improvement after surgery. Flatness of the bilateral atlanto-occipital joint may have induced this instability. Occipital-cervical fusion was chosen in the present case since the patient showed restricted axial rotation of the neck before surgery. The surgery improved the preoperative symptoms including the function of cervical spine evaluated by JOACMEQ.

Atlanto-axial subluxation after pyogenic spondylitis of the atlanto-occipital joint.

This report presents a case of atlanto-axial subluxation after treatment of pyogenic spondylitis of the atlanto-occipital joint. A 60-year-old male had 1-month history of neck pain with fever. Magnetic resonance imaging showed inflammation around the odontoid process. Intravenous antibiotic therapy was administrated immediately. After 6 weeks, CRP had returned almost to normal. After 4 months, laboratory data was still normal, but the patient experienced increasing neck pain. Lateral cervical radiography in the neutral position showed instability between C1 and C2. Computed tomography showed a bony union of the atlanto-occipital joint and severe destruction of the atlanto-axial joint on the left side. Transarticular screw fixation for the atlanto-axial joint was performed. A lateral cervical radiograph in the neutral position after surgery showed a solid bony union. Neck pain improved following surgery. We speculate that spondylitis of the atlanto-occipital joint induced a loosening of the transverse ligament and articulation of the atlanto-axial joint. A bony fusion of the atlanto-occipital joint after antibiotic treatment resolved the pyogenic inflammation concentrated stress to the damaged atlanto-axial joint, resulting in further damage. The atlanto-axial instability was finally managed by the insertion of a transarticular screw.

Atlanto-axial joint of atlanto-axial subluxation patients due to rheumatoid arthritis before and after surgery: morphological evaluation using CT reconstruction.

This study investigated the preoperative morphology and postoperative fusion of the atlanto-axial joint (AAJ) in patients with atlanto-axial subluxation (AAS) due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using computed tomography (CT). Furthermore, we examined the relationship between the preoperative morphology of AAJ and other radiographic results. Thirty patients with AAS due to RA treated by C1-2 transarticular screw fixation (TSF) were reviewed. The morphology of the AAJ was evaluated using sagittal reconstruction views on CT before and 1 year after surgery. Thereafter, the atlanto-dental interval (ADI) value at the neutral and maximal flexion position and atlanto-axial angle (AAA) at the neutral position was assessed in preoperative lateral cervical radiographs. The preoperative morphology of the AAJ on CT reconstruction views was graded as follows: Grade 1 showed maintenance of the joint space, Grade 2 showed the joint space narrowing and Grade 3 showed the destructive abnormality of subchondral bone. After surgery, the ADI value at the neutral position was assessed in lateral cervical radiographs. Furthermore, the fusion in the AAJ was investigated using CT sagittal reconstruction views taken 1 year after surgery. The preoperative CT image of the AAJ demonstrated Grade 1 in 12 cases (Group A), Grade 2 in 9 cases (Group B) and Grade 3 in 9 cases (Group C). There was no significant difference in age, gender and duration of RA among the three groups. The average ADI value at the flexion position was 11.0 mm in Group A, 12.3 mm in Group B and 12.7 mm in Group C (p>0.313). The average ADI value at the neutral position before surgery was 4.5 mm in Group A, 7.3 mm in Group B and 11.4 mm in Group C (p<0.003). The mean AAA value was 20.8° in Group A, 21.8° in Group B and 8.4° in Group C (p<0.033). The average ADI value after TSF was 1.7 mm in Group A, 2.1 mm in Group B and 3.0 mm in Group C (p>0.144). Fusion in the AAJ 1 year after surgery was demonstrated in 14 cases (46.7%; Group A, 0 case; Group B, 5 cases; Group C, 9 cases). According to the preoperative grading of the AAJ, the postoperative fusion in the AAJ was demonstrated in 0 of 32 joints (0%) in Grade 1, 7 of 18 joints (38.9%) in Grade 2 and all of 10 joints (100%) in Grade 3. In conclusion, this study showed that a destructive abnormality of subchondral bone in the AAJ induced an enlargement of the ADI and anterior inclination of the atlas in patients with AAS due to RA. The current study also showed that fusion in the AAJ was demonstrated in 14 of 30 patients after C1/2 TSF. This was easy to recognize in AAS patients whose joint destruction extended to the subchondral bone.

Evaluation of neck pain by using a visual analog scale before and after laminoplasty in patients with cervical myelopathy: relationship with clinical results.

OBJECT: In this study the authors investigated the neck pain of patients with cervical myelopathy by using a visual analog scale (VAS) before and after laminoplasty, and they analyzed the association of amount of neck pain with the clinical results. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted in 41 patients with cervical myelopathy who underwent cervical laminoplasty. The patients were assessed using questionnaires to evaluate the neck pain intensity before surgery, and 2 years after surgery, the outcome was assessed using a VAS. The degree of cervical lordosis and range of motion (ROM) of the cervical spine were evaluated before and after laminoplasty. The neurological status was also evaluated before and after surgery. RESULTS: The patients were classified into 2 groups according to their preoperative neck pain: 1) the pain (PA) group, which included patients whose preoperative VAS score was more than 1 mm; and 2) the no pain (NP) group, which included patients whose preoperative VAS score was 0 mm. Inclusion in the PA group indicated a restriction of the cervical ROM before laminoplasty; however, the improvement of neck pain in this group and the deterioration of pain status in the NP group eliminated this difference after laminoplasty. Thereafter, the PA group was classified into 2 subgroups according to the improvement of the preoperative neck pain: 1) the improved group, which included patients whose postoperative VAS score decreased; and 2) the no improvement group, which included patients who were not in the improved group. No significant differences were observed in the average recovery and radiographic results between these 2 subgroups. CONCLUSIONS: Neck pain before surgery in the PA group indicated a restriction of the cervical ROM; however, the improvement of neck pain in this group and the deterioration of pain status in the NP group indicated the disappearance of this difference postoperatively. Moreover, improvement of preoperative neck pain was not associated with the radiographic results and the neurological recovery rate.

Diagnosis of a previously unidentified primary site in patients with spinal metastasis: diagnostic usefulness of laboratory analysis, CT scanning and CT-guided biopsy.

When the primary site is unknown in patients with spinal metastases, there can be problems in locating the site of tumor origin. Most previous reports on metastases of unknown origin have not been limited to the spine. The purpose of this study is to assess the usefulness of laboratory analysis, chest, abdominal and pelvic CT and CT-guided biopsy in patients with spinal metastases of unknown origin (SMUO). A retrospective review of the clinical histories of 27 patients with SMUO was done. A total of 43 patients with SMUO were seen at our institution between 2002 and 2007. Of the 43 patients, 27 who underwent all 3 tests (laboratory analysis including M protein and tumor markers, chest, abdominal and pelvic CT and CT-guided biopsy) were included in this study. We retrospectively assessed the diagnostic usefulness of those 3 tests in the 27 patients. In 27 patients, the final diagnosis was obtained in 26 patients. Myeloma was the most common malignancy followed by lung carcinoma. M protein was positive in all 7 patients with myeloma and negative in patients with other malignancies. The level of tumor markers was elevated in 16 of 17 patients with a solid tumor and in all 3 with lymphoma. CA15-3 was elevated in 4 of 27 patients, CA19-9 in 5 of 27 patients, CA125 in 2 of 27 patients, CEA in 6 of 27 patients, SCC in 2 of 27 patients, NSE in 7 of 27 patients, AFP in 1 of 27 patients, PIVKA-II in 1 of 27 patients, TPA in 6 of 27 patients, IAP in 3 of 12 patients, thyroglobulin in 2 of 27 patients, sIL-2R in 3 of 24 patients, and PSA in 5 of 17 male patients. Myeloma, lymphoma and prostate carcinoma had a marker with high sensitivity and specificity (M protein, sIL-2R and PSA). Eleven primary tumor sites (40.7%) were detected (6 lung, 1 prostate, 1 kidney, 1 thyroid, 1 liver, and 1 pancreas) by chest, abdominal and CT scanning. Biopsy led to determination of the final diagnosis in 12 (44.4%) of 27 patients (5 myelomas, 3 lymphomas, 2 prostate carcinomas, 1 renal-cell carcinoma, 1 thyroid carcinoma). In the remaining 15 patients, biopsy did not lead to determination of the final diagnosis, because the histological diagnosis was either an adenocarcinoma or an undifferentiated carcinoma, the tissue sample was not diagnostic. A laboratory analysis limited to specific tumor markers such as PSA and protein electrophoresis is considered to be useful in making a final diagnosis. Chest, abdominal and pelvic CT is considered to be useful for making a final diagnosis in solid tumors, but not for hematologic tumors. A CT-guided biopsy had a low determination rate in the final diagnosis in comparison to a laboratory analysis and CT scanning for solid tumors and it is not considered to be essential for the diagnosis of hematologic tumors.

The characteristics of bony ankylosis of the facet joint of the upper cervical spine in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

This study investigated the bony ankylosis of the upper cervical spine facet joints in patients with a cervical spine involvement due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using computed tomography (CT) and then examined the characteristics of the patients showing such ankylosis. Forty-six consecutive patients who underwent surgical treatment for RA involving the cervical spine were reviewed. The radiographic diagnoses included atlanto-axial subluxation in 30 cases, vertical subluxation (VS) in 10 cases, VS + subaxial subluxation in 3 cases and cervical spondylotic myelopathy in 3 cases. The patients were classified into two groups, those developing bony ankylosis or not and then the differences in the patient characteristics between the two groups was investigated. Furthermore, cervical spine disorders and surgeries were also evaluated in patients who demonstrated such bony ankylosis. The CT reconstruction image demonstrated bony ankylosis in 12 patients (group BA), and the remaining 34 cases (group NB) showed no bony ankylosis. The level at which bony ankylosis occurred was atlanto-occipital joint (AOJ) in eight cases, atlanto-axial joint (AAJ) in two cases and AOJ, AAJ in two cases. No differences were observed between the two groups (age P > 0.54, gender P > 0.39, duration of RA P > 0.72). There was a significant difference between two groups in the patients showing obvious neurological impairment (P = 0.017). In BA group, arthrodesis or decompression was adapted for a caudal region of bony ankylosis. In conclusion, bony ankylosis of the facet joint of the upper cervical spine was detected in 12 of 46 RA patients with involvement of the cervical spine who thus required surgery. These findings showed that the patients demonstrating such ankylosis showed severe cervical myelopathy. In addition, we suggest that the occurrence of bony ankylosis was a risk factor for instability of AAJ, and subaxial instability or stenosis.

Foot drop due to lumbar degenerative conditions: mechanism and prognostic factors in herniated nucleus pulposus and lumbar spinal stenosis.

OBJECT: The aim of this study was to analyze the mechanism and prognostic factors of foot drop caused by lumbar degenerative conditions. METHODS: The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of 28 patients with foot drop due to a herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) or lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), scoring between 0 and 3 on manual muscle testing for the tibialis anterior muscles. They analyzed the mechanism of foot drop and whether the duration before the operation, preoperative tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis longus strength, age, gender, and diabetes mellitus were all found to be prognostic factors for postoperative tibialis anterior recovery. They also investigated whether the diagnosis had any influence on the prognosis. RESULTS: The compression of double roots and a sequestrated fragment were observed, respectively, in 9 and 13 of 16 patients with HNP. Multiple levels including the L4-5 segment were decompressed in 8 of 12 patients with LSS. Analysis did not demonstrate any prognostic factor in surgically treated HNP, but significant associations with prognosis were observed with respect to preoperative tibialis anterior (p = 0.033) and extensor hallucis longus (p = 0.020) strength in patients with LSS. In addition, the postoperative muscle recovery in patients with HNP was significantly superior to that in patients with LSS (p = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS: Double root compression was the most common condition associated with foot drop due to HNP. The diagnosis and preoperative tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis longus strength in LSS were factors that influenced recovery following an operation.

Relationship between the morphology of the atlanto-occipital joint and the radiographic results in patients with atlanto-axial subluxation due to rheumatoid arthritis.

The upper cervical spine is a common focus of destruction from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Atlanto-axial subluxation (AAS) presents with marked frequency among patients with instability. However, there are occasional patients who show no motion between the occipital bone and atlas on a dynamic cervical radiograph in AAS patients. This study investigated the morphology of the atlanto-occipital joint (AOJ) in AAS patients due to RA using computed tomography, and examined the relationship between its morphology and other radiographic results. Twenty-six consecutive patients with AAS due to RA treated by surgery were reviewed. The subjects included 18 females and 8 males. The average patient age was 59.3 years. The mean duration of RA was 14.3 years. In all the patients, the AOJ was morphologically evaluated using sagittal reconstruction view on computed tomography before surgery. Moreover, the ADI value was investigated at the neutral and maximal flexion position, and atlanto-axial angle (AAA) at the neutral position in preoperative lateral cervical radiographs. The morphology of the AOJ on a CT sagittal reconstruction view was classified into three types as follows: a normal type which showed a maintenance of the joint space, a narrow type which showed a disappearance of the joint space and a fused type which showed the fusion of the AOJ. The pre-operative CT sagittal reconstruction image of the AOJ demonstrated a normal type bilaterally in six cases (Group A). In 15 cases (Group B), CT image demonstrated narrowing on at least one side of the AOJ. In five cases (Group C), CT images demonstrated fusion on at least one side of the AOJ. The average ADI value at the flexion position was 10.7 mm in Group A, 11.7 mm in Group B, and 12.6 mm in Group C. There was no significant difference among those groups. The average ADI value at the neutral position before surgery was 2.8 mm in Group A, 5.9 mm in Group B, and 10.4 mm in Group C. There was no significant difference between Group A and B (P > 0.105), and Groups B and C (P > 0.032), however, there was a significant difference between Groups A and C (P < 0.004). The average AAA value was 25.3 degrees in Group A, 19.3 degrees in Group B and 3.4 degrees in Group C. There was no significant difference between Groups A and B (P > 0.230), however, there was a significant difference between Groups A and C (P < 0.002), and Groups B and C (P < 0.007). This study showed that fusion or ankylosis of the AOJ induced an enlargement of the ADI and anterior inclination of the atlas in the neutral position, despite the fact that normal findings of AOJ showed a slight displacement of the atlas to axis in RA patients showing AAS involvement. This morphology may progress to SAS and VS due to AOJ after atlanto-axial arthrodesis.

Cervical malalignment after laminoplasty: relationship to deep extensor musculature of the cervical spine and neurological outcome.

OBJECT: The goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between preservation of the insertion of the deep extensor musculature of the cervical spine at C-2 and postoperative cervical alignment, especially differences between cases involving male and female patients, as well as the relationship between the loss of cervical lordosis and neurological outcome after laminoplasty. METHODS: The authors reviewed the records of 50 patients who underwent laminoplasty to elevate the C-3 lamina with repair of the deep extensor musculature (Group A) and 31 patients who underwent laminoplasty by C-3 dome laminotomy or laminectomy (Group B). They compared the degree of cervical lordosis after laminoplasty with preoperative measurements. Neurological function at last follow-up was also compared with preoperative assessments. RESULTS: In Group A, the mean values for pre- and postoperative cervical lordosis were 14.5 and 10.9 degrees, respectively (p > 0.18). In female patients, however, the pre- and postoperative means were 14.4 and 3.7 degrees, respectively (p < 0.004). In Group B, the overall means for pre- and postoperative cervical lordosis were 17.3 and 19.1 degrees, respectively (p > 0.48); the corresponding means for female patients were 15.0 and 14.1 degrees (p > 0.83). The mean percentages of neurological recovery were 54.1% in Group A and 54.8% in Group B. CONCLUSIONS: Preservation of the insertion of the deep extensor musculature to the C-2 spinous process prevented significant changes in cervical alignment after laminoplasty, even among female patients. Neurological recovery was not affected by the loss of cervical lordosis.