Preoperative application of CT and MRI registration in lumbar disc herniation endoscopic surgery could improve the postoperative rehabilitation of patients.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD) has emerged as routine treatment for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) due to its minimal invasiveness and quick recovery. However, PELD demands high precision from the surgeon, as the risk of intraoperative complications is substantial, including potential damage to the nerve root and dura, and a higher likelihood of recurrence post-surgery. Thus, preoperative planning utilizing CT and MRI imaging is essential. METHODS: In this study, the clinical data of 140 patients treated with PELD for LDH from January 2021 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were categorized into two groups based on whether CT and MRI registration (CMR) was employed for surgical planning: a CMR group (n=68) and a control group (n=72). Data collected included surgery time, hospital stay duration, and scores from the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for low back and leg pain, as well as the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Lumbar Spine Score (JOA). Differences between the two groups were assessed using the Student's t-test. RESULTS: No significant difference was found in hospital stay length between the groups (P=0.277). Surgery time was significantly shorter in the CMR group (P<0.001). Prior to surgery, no significant differences in VAS scores for leg and low back pain were observed between the groups (P=0.341 and P=0.131, respectively); however, at 2 months postoperatively, both scores were significantly lower in the CMR group (P<0.001 and P=0.002, respectively). Similarly, no difference in preoperative JOA scores was noted (P=0.750), but at 2 months postoperative, the CMR group exhibited significantly higher scores (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Compared with the traditional PELD, the preoperative use of CMR has shown to reduce surgery time, alleviate leg and low back pain, and increase the lumbar JOA score at 2 months after surgery, underscoring its efficacy in enhancing surgical outcomes.

Thoracolumbar fracture and spinal cord injury in blunt trauma: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression.

Thoracolumbar (TL) fractures are among the most common vertebral fractures. These patients have high morbidity and mortality due to injury mechanisms and associated injuries. Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a prevalent complication of spinal fractures of the thoracolumbar region. AIM: To determine the pooled rate of thoracolumbar fractures and SCI in blunt trauma patients. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies were performed. The search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases. The authors screened and selected studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies were then evaluated for risk of bias using the JBI checklist. The pooled event rate and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random effects models. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed to explore sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS: Twenty-one studies fulfilled the selection criteria. The pooled rate of TL fractures was 8.08% (CI = 6.18-10.50%), with high heterogeneity (I2 = 99.98%, P < 0.001). Thoracic and lumbar fractures accounted for 45.23% and 59.01% of the TL fractures, respectively. Meta-regression revealed that the midpoint of the study period was a significant moderator. The pooled event rate of SCI among TL fracture patients was 15.81% (CI = 11.11 to 22.01%) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 98.31%, P < 0.001). The country of study was identified as a source of heterogeneity through subgroup analysis, and studies from the United States reported higher rates of SCI. Meta-regression revealed that the critical appraisal score was negatively associated with event rate. CONCLUSION: Our study evaluated the rate of TL fractures in multiple countries at different time points. We observed an increase in the rate of TL fractures over time. SCI results also seemed to vary based on the country of the original study.

Accuracy of an artificial intelligence algorithm for detecting moderate-to-severe vertebral compression fractures on abdominal and thoracic computed tomography scans.

Objective: To describe the accuracy of HealthVCF, a software product that uses artificial intelligence, in the detection of incidental moderate-to-severe vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) on chest and abdominal computed tomography scans. Materials and Methods: We included a consecutive sample of 899 chest and abdominal computed tomography scans of patients 51-99 years of age. Scans were retrospectively evaluated by the software and by two specialists in musculoskeletal imaging for the presence of VCFs with vertebral body height loss > 25%. We compared the software analysis with that of a general radiologist, using the evaluation of the two specialists as the reference. Results: The software showed a diagnostic accuracy of 89.6% (95% CI: 87.4-91.5%) for moderate-to-severe VCFs, with a sensitivity of 73.8%, a specificity of 92.7%, and a negative predictive value of 94.8%. Among the 145 positive scans detected by the software, the general radiologist failed to report the fractures in 62 (42.8%), and the algorithm detected additional fractures in 38 of those scans. Conclusion: The software has good accuracy for the detection of moderate-to-severe VCFs, with high specificity, and can increase the opportunistic detection rate of VCFs by radiologists who do not specialize in musculoskeletal imaging.

Objetivo: Descrever a acurácia do software HealthVCF na detecção incidental de fraturas compressivas de corpos vertebrais moderadas a graves em exames de tomografia computadorizada do tórax e abdome. Materiais e Métodos: Foram incluídos 899 exames consecutivos de pacientes com idades entre 51 e 99 anos. As imagens foram retrospectivamente avaliadas pelo software e por dois radiologistas especializados em musculoesquelético que investigaram fraturas compressivas de corpos vertebrais com perda da altura somática > 25%. A análise comparativa foi realizada entre o software e um radiologista geral, usando a avaliação do especialista como referência. Resultados: O software apresentou uma acurácia de 89,6% (IC 95%: 87,4­91,5%) para fraturas compressivas moderadas a graves, com sensibilidade de 73,8%, especificidade de 92,7% e valor preditivo negativo de 94,8%. Entre as 145 tomografias positivas detectadas pelo software, o radiologista geral deixou de relatar as fraturas em 62 (42,8%) e o algoritmo detectou fraturas adicionais em 38 dessas tomografias. Conclusão: O software possui boa acurácia na detecção de fraturas compressivas moderadas a graves, com alta especificidade, podendo aumentar a taxa de detecção oportunística dessas fraturas por radiologistas não especializados em musculoesquelético.

Global utilization of biportal spinal endoscopy: Case series on management of lumbar pathology in Soddo, Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION: Biportal spinal endoscopy is a safe and cost-effective methodology for the management of lumbar pathology in rural underserved hospitals that have standard orthopaedic arthroscopic equipment, but lack access to microscopy. METHODS: This is a case series noting 1-year outcomes from 5 patients managed with biportal spinal endoscopy during an 11-day mission trip to Soddo, Ethiopia in November 2022. Surgical complications, postoperative assessments, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Surgical techniques and equipment utilized were shared with residents and faculty at the hospital. RESULTS: Five Ethiopian patients (4:1, female:male) with no prior spine surgery history elected to undergo biportal surgery for the diagnoses of lumbar stenosis and disc herniation, averaging 31 years of age with Body-Mass-Indices (BMI) <35. Two patients underwent endoscopic discectomy, and three patients underwent endoscopic unilateral laminotomy and bilateral decompression (ULBD). There were no complications. No postoperative functional deficits, infections, readmissions, revisions, or wound dehiscences were noted at 12 months follow-up. VAS-back and VAS-leg scores improved to <2/10 for 80 % of patients. All patients returned to work/activities of daily living. No patients required postoperative pain management beyond the 2-week post-operative follow-up. CONCLUSION: With these five patients, we found that biportal spinal endoscopy can be safely applied in rural hospital settings with limited resources. This supports biportal spinal endoscopy as a viable minimally invasive modality for the management of lumbar pathology. For hospitals with limited resources, but access to arthroscopic equipment, biportal spinal endoscopy is a feasible option. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Investigation of Lumbar Vertebrae and Disc Morphometry with Computed Tomography in Turkish Adults

SUMMARY: Conducting morphometric studies including many parameters and establishing certain standards for the anatomy of the lumbar spine will facilitate clinical applications. The Turkish example of lumbar vertebrae and disc morphometry has not yet been presented comprehensively. In our study, abdominal computed tomography images of 700 adults were evaluated retrospectively. It was observed that the anterior height of the vertebral bodies increased from L1 to L4 in males, and from L1 to L5 in females. The posterior height of the vertebral bodies was lowest at L5 in both sexes, while it was highest at L3 in males and L4 in females. In all age groups, the values for males were greater (p0.05). In all age groups and both sexes, an increase in anterior disc heights towards disc 5 was observed. The values for males were greater than those for females (p<0.05). The posterior disc height at disc 5 was higher in females, and in other discs, it was higher in males (p<0.05). In conclusion, it was found that the measurement values of the parameters examined varied according to lumbar level and sex, but were independent of age. The morphometric data we obtained are important in terms of providing a reference for the people of our region and contributing to the literature.

La realización de estudios morfométricos que incluyan diversos parámetros anatómicos y el establecimiento de ciertos estándares para la anatomía de la columna lumbar facilitarán los procedimientos clínicos. Como ejemplo, aún no se ha presentado de manera detallada la morfometría de las vértebras lumbares y del disco intervertebral en individuos turcos. En nuestro estudio evaluamos retrospectivamente imágenes de tomografía computarizada abdominal en 700 individuos adultos de ambos sexos. Observamos que la altura anterior de los cuerpos vertebrales aumentaba de L1 a L4 en los hombres y de L1 a L5 en las mujeres. La altura posterior de los cuerpos vertebrales fue más baja en L5 en ambos sexos, mientras que fue más alta en L3 en hombres y L4 en mujeres. En todos los grupos etarios los valores para los hombres fueron mayores (p0,05). En todos los grupos de edad y en ambos sexos se observó un aumento en la altura anterior del disco intervertebral hacia el disco 5. Los valores de los hombres fueron mayores que los de las mujeres (p<0,05). La altura posterior del disco intervertebral en el disco 5 fue mayor en las mujeres y en otros discos fue mayor en los hombres (p<0,05). En conclusión, se encontró que los valores de medición de los parámetros examinados variaron según el nivel lumbar y el sexo, pero fueron independientes de la edad. Los datos morfométricos que obtuvimos son importantes en términos de proporcionar una referencia para la población de nuestra región y contribuir a la literatura.

Analysis of Risk Factors for Urinary Tract Infection after Lumbar Interbody Fusion.

OBJECTIVE: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common postoperative complication, so exploring its risk factors is helpful to provide a basis for clinical prevention. This study aims to analyse the risk factors for UTI after lumbar interbody fusion (LIF). METHODS: A single-centre retrospective study was conducted on the clinical data of 358 patients treated with LIF from April 2020 to April 2023. In accordance with the results of postoperative urine culture, the patients were divided into UTI group (n = 19, those with UTI after LIF) and control group (n = 332, those without UTI after LIF). Binary logistic regression analysis was carried out through collecting the medical records of the two groups to probe into the risk factors for UTI after LIF. RESULTS: After seven patients were excluded, the remaining 351 patients were included in the analysis. In this study, 19 patients (5.41%) developed postoperative UTI, whereas 332 patients (94.59%) had no UTI. Regression analysis results showed drinking (odds ratio (OR) = 16.193, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.017-257.860) and high preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) level (OR = 3.237, 95% CI: 1.213-8.636) as risk factors for UTI after LIF. A high professional title of main surgeon (OR = 0.095, 95% CI: 0.010-0.932) and preoperative red blood cell (RBC) count (OR = 0.001, 95% CI: 0.000-0.198) were protective factors for UTI after LIF (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study advocated strengthening the prevention and treatment of UTI in patients who had drinking history, high preoperative CRP level and low preoperative RBC count, and received LIF based on the study results. Attention should be paid to the training of physicians with low professional title.

Hounsfield unit for assessing bone mineral density distribution within lumbar vertebrae and its clinical values.

Study Design: Retrospective radiological analysis. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the distribution of bone mineral density (BMD) in lumbar vertebrae using the Hounsfield unit (HU) measurement method and investigate the clinical implications of HU values for assessing lumbar vertebrae BMD. Method: Two hundred and ninety-six patients were retrospectively reviewed and divided into six groups according to age: Group 1(20-29 years old), Group 2 (30-39 years old), Group 3 (40-49 years old), Group 4 (50-59 years old), Group 5 (60-69 years old), Group 6 (70-79 years old). Six different locations from each vertebra of L1-L5 were selected as regions of interest: the anterior, middle and posterior parts of the upper and lower slices of the vertebrae. HU values were measured for the six regions of interest, followed by statistical analysis. Results: The HU values of vertebrae showed a decreasing trend from young patients to elderly patients in Group 1 to Group 5. There was no significant difference in HU values among different vertebrae in the same age group. In all age groups, the HU values of the anterior and posterior part of the vertebral body were significantly different from L1 to L3, with the anterior part of the vertebral body having lower HU values than the posterior part. The HU values of the anterior and posterior part of the vertebral body of L4 and L5 were statistically significant only in Group 5 and Group 6, and the HU values of the anterior part of the vertebral body were lower than those of the posterior part. The HU values of posterior part of L4 and L5 in Group6 were higher than those in Group5. Conclusion: Bone mineral density in the lumbar vertebrae is not uniformly distributed, potentially attributed to varying stress stimuli. The assessment of local HU values in the lumbar spine is of significant importance for surgical treatment.

Deep learning reconstruction for lumbar spine MRI acceleration: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND: We compared magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) turbo spin-echo images reconstructed using a deep learning technique (TSE-DL) with standard turbo spin-echo (TSE-SD) images of the lumbar spine regarding image quality and detection performance of common degenerative pathologies. METHODS: This prospective, single-center study included 31 patients (15 males and 16 females; aged 51 ± 16 years (mean ± standard deviation)) who underwent lumbar spine exams with both TSE-SD and TSE-DL acquisitions for degenerative spine diseases. Images were analyzed by two radiologists and assessed for qualitative image quality using a 4-point Likert scale, quantitative signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of anatomic landmarks, and detection of common pathologies. Paired-sample t, Wilcoxon, and McNemar tests, unweighted/linearly weighted Cohen κ statistics, and intraclass correlation coefficients were used. RESULTS: Scan time for TSE-DL and TSE-SD protocols was 2:55 and 5:17 min:s, respectively. The overall image quality was either significantly higher for TSE-DL or not significantly different between TSE-SD and TSE-DL. TSE-DL demonstrated higher SNR and subject noise scores than TSE-SD. For pathology detection, the interreader agreement was substantial to almost perfect for TSE-DL, with κ values ranging from 0.61 to 1.00; the interprotocol agreement was almost perfect for both readers, with κ values ranging from 0.84 to 1.00. There was no significant difference in the diagnostic confidence or detection rate of common pathologies between the two sequences (p ≥ 0.081). CONCLUSIONS: TSE-DL allowed for a 45% reduction in scan time over TSE-SD in lumbar spine MRI without compromising the overall image quality and showed comparable detection performance of common pathologies in the evaluation of degenerative lumbar spine changes. RELEVANCE STATEMENT: Deep learning-reconstructed lumbar spine MRI protocol enabled a 45% reduction in scan time compared with conventional reconstruction, with comparable image quality and detection performance of common degenerative pathologies. KEY POINTS: • Lumbar spine MRI with deep learning reconstruction has broad application prospects. • Deep learning reconstruction of lumbar spine MRI saved 45% scan time without compromising overall image quality. • When compared with standard sequences, deep learning reconstruction showed similar detection performance of common degenerative lumbar spine pathologies.

Pseudarthrosis risk factors in lumbar fusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study presents a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of pseudarthrosis risk factors following lumbar fusion procedures. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used for outcome measurements. The objective of this study was to identify the independent risk factors for pseudarthrosis after lumbar spinal fusion, which is crucial for mitigating morbidity and reoperation. Systematic searches in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus (1990-July 2021) were conducted using specific terms. The inclusion criteria included prospective and retrospective cohorts and case‒control series reporting ORs with 95% CIs from multivariate analysis. The quality assessment utilized the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Meta-analysis, employing OR and 95% CI, assessed pseudarthrosis risk factors in lumbar fusion surgery, depicted in a forest plot. Of the 568 abstracts identified, 12 met the inclusion criteria (9 retrospective, 2006-2021). The 17 risk factors were categorized into clinical, radiographic, surgical, and bone turnover marker factors. The meta-analysis highlighted two significant clinical risk factors: age (95% CI 1.02-1.11; p = 0.005) and smoking (95% CI 1.68-5.44; p = 0.0002). The sole significant surgical risk factor was the number of fused levels (pooled OR 1.35; 95% CI 1.17-1.55; p < 0.0001). This study identified 17 risk factors for pseudarthrosis after lumbar fusion surgery, emphasizing age, smoking status, and the number of fusion levels. Prospective studies are warranted to explore additional risk factors and assess the impact of surgery and graft type.

Clinical use of quantitative computed tomography to evaluate the effect of less paraspinal muscle damage on bone mineral density changes after lumbar interbody fusion.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study. PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the reliability of quantitative computed tomography (QCT) in measuring bone mineral density (BMD) of instrumented vertebrae and investigate the effect of less paraspinal muscle damage on BMD changes after lumbar interbody fusion. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Patients always experience a decrease in vertebral BMD after lumbar interbody fusion. However, to the best of our knowledge, no study has analyzed the effect of paraspinal muscles on BMD changes. METHODS: This retrospective analysis included a total of 155 patients who underwent single-level lumbar fusion, with 81 patients in the traditional group and 74 patients in the Wiltse group (less paraspinal muscle damage). QCT was used to measure the volumetric BMD (vBMD), Hounsfield unit value, and cross-sectional area of the paraspinal muscles at the upper instrumented vertebrae (UIV), vertebrae one segment above the UIV (UIV+1), and the vertebrae one segment above the UIV+1 (UIV+2). Statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: No significant differences in general data were observed between the two groups (p>0.05). Strong correlations were noted between the preoperative and 1-week postoperative vBMD of each segment (p<0.01), with no significant difference between the two time points in both groups (p>0.05). Vertebral BMD loss was significantly higher in UIV+1 and UIV+2 in the traditional group than in the Wiltse group (-13.6%±19.1% vs. -4.2%±16.5%, -10.8%±20.3% vs. -0.9%±37.0%; p<0.05). However, no statistically significant difference was observed in the percent vBMD changes in the UIV segment between the two groups (37.7%±70.1% vs. 36.1%±78.7%, p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: QCT can reliably determine BMD in the instrumented spine after lumbar interbody fusion. With QCT, we found that reducing paraspinal muscle destruction through the Wiltse approach during surgery can help preserve the adjacent vertebral BMD; however, it does not help increase the BMD in the instrumented vertebrae.

Pediatric Solid-State 3D Models of Lumbar Vertebrae and Spine.

Introduction While various 3D vertebral models have been utilized in numerous studies, there is a notable gap in the representation of pediatric lumbar vertebrae and spine. This study aimed to describe the changing shapes of lumbar vertebrae and spine with age and to develop precise 3D models. Materials and methods Solid-state 3D models of pediatric lumbar vertebrae and spine were created using SOLIDWORKS® Simulation software for five age groups: newborns, infants (ages 0-1), toddlers (ages 1-3), middle childhood (ages 4-7), and preadolescents (ages 8-12). Models were composed of components with varying biomechanical characteristics. Results Created 3D models replicate variations in the dimensions and configurations of vertebrae, taking into account osteometric analyses conducted on actual vertebral specimens. These models also include elements made of cartilage, representing various phases of vertebral growth during ontogeny. Additionally, through 3D parametric design, we developed comprehensive lumbar spine models, incorporating both the vertebrae and intervertebral disks. Conclusion Created pediatric solid-state vertebral 3D models can be utilized in developing virtual or augmented reality applications and for medical research. Users can interact with models, allowing virtual exploration and manipulation, enhancing learning experiences and facilitating a better understanding of spatial relationships. These solid-state 3D models allow finite element analysis and can be used for further research to calculate internal relative deformations and stress distribution under different conditions.

Electron density dual-energy CT can improve the detection of lumbar disc herniation with higher image quality than standard and virtual non-calcium images.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the diagnostic performance and image quality of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) with electron density (ED) image reconstruction with those of DECT with standard CT (SC) and virtual non-calcium (VNCa) image reconstructions, for diagnosing lumbar disc herniation (L-HIVD). METHODS: A total of 59 patients (354 intervertebral discs from T12/L1 to L5/S1; mean age, 60 years; 30 women and 29 men) who underwent DECT with spectral reconstruction and 3-T MRI within 2 weeks were enrolled between March 2021 and February 2022. Four radiologists independently assessed three image sets of randomized ED, SC, and VNCa images to detect L-HIVD at 8-week intervals. The coefficient of variance (CV) and the Weber contrast of the ROIs in the normal and diseased disc to cerebrospinal fluid space (NCR-normal/-diseased, respectively) were calculated to compare the image qualities of the noiseless ED and other series. RESULTS: Overall, 129 L-HIVDs were noted on MRI. In the detection of L-HIVD, ED showed a higher AUC and sensitivity than SC and VNCa; 0.871 vs 0.807 vs 833 (p = 0.002) and 81% vs 70% vs 74% (p = 0.006 for SC), respectively. CV was much lower in all measurements of ED than those for SC and VNCa (p < 0.001). Furthermore, NCR-normal and NCR-diseased were the highest in ED (ED vs SC in NCR-normal and NCR-diseased, p = 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively; ED vs VNCa in NCR-diseased, p = 0.044). CONCLUSION: Compared to SC and VNCa images, DECT with ED reconstruction can enhance the AUC and sensitivity of L-HIVD detection with a lower CV and higher NCR. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: To our knowledge, this is the first study to quantify the image quality of noiseless ED images. ED imaging may be helpful for detecting L-HIVD in patients who cannot undergo MRI. KEY POINTS: ED images have diagnostic potential, but relevant quantitative analyses of image quality are limited. ED images detect disc herniation, with a better coefficient of variance and normalized contrast ratio values. ED images could detect L-HIVD when MRI is not an option.

Advanced deep learning-based image reconstruction in lumbar spine MRI at 0.55 T - Effects on image quality and acquisition time in comparison to conventional deep learning-based reconstruction.

Objectives: To evaluate an optimized deep leaning-based image post-processing technique in lumbar spine MRI at 0.55 T in terms of image quality and image acquisition time. Materials and methods: Lumbar spine imaging was conducted on 18 patients using a 0.55 T MRI scanner, employing conventional (CDLR) and advanced (ADLR) deep learning-based post-processing techniques. Two musculoskeletal radiologists visually evaluated the images using a 5-point Likert scale to assess image quality and resolution. Quantitative assessment in terms of signal intensities (SI) and contrast ratios was performed by region of interest measurements in different body-tissues (vertebral bone, intervertebral disc, spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid and autochthonous back muscles) to investigate differences between CDLR and ADLR sequences. Results: The images processed with the advanced technique (ADLR) were rated superior to the conventional technique (CDLR) in terms of signal/contrast, resolution, and assessability of the spinal canal and neural foramen. The interrater agreement was moderate for signal/contrast (ICC = 0.68) and good for resolution (ICC = 0.77), but moderate for spinal canal and neuroforaminal assessability (ICC = 0.55). Quantitative assessment showed a higher contrast ratio for fluid-sensitive sequences in the ADLR images. The use of ADLR reduced image acquisition time by 44.4%, from 14:22 min to 07:59 min. Conclusions: Advanced deep learning-based image reconstruction algorithms improve the visually perceived image quality in lumbar spine imaging at 0.55 T while simultaneously allowing to substantially decrease image acquisition times. Clinical relevance: Advanced deep learning-based image post-processing techniques (ADLR) in lumbar spine MRI at 0.55 T significantly improves image quality while reducing image acquisition time.

Predicting Osteoporosis and Osteopenia by Fusing Deep Transfer Learning Features and Classical Radiomics Features Based on Single-Source Dual-energy CT Imaging.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate a predictive model for osteoporosis and osteopenia prediction by fusing deep transfer learning (DTL) features and classical radiomics features based on single-source dual-energy computed tomography (CT) virtual monochromatic imaging. METHODS: A total of 606 lumbar vertebrae with dual-energy CT imaging and quantitative CT (QCT) evaluation were included in the retrospective study and randomly divided into the training (n = 424) and validation (n = 182) cohorts. Radiomics features and DTL features were extracted from 70-keV monochromatic CT images, followed by feature selection and model construction, radiomics and DTL features models were established. Then, we integrated the selected two types of features into a features fusion model. We developed a two-level classifier for the hierarchical pairwise classification of each vertebra. All the vertebrae were first classified into osteoporosis and non-osteoporosis groups, then non-osteoporosis group was classified into osteopenia and normal groups. QCT was used as reference. The predictive performance and clinical usefulness of three models were evaluated and compared. RESULTS: The area under the curve (AUC) of the features fusion, radiomics and DTL models for the classification between osteoporosis and non-osteoporosis were 0.981, 0.999, 0.997 in the training cohort and 0.979, 0.943, 0.848 in the validation cohort. Furthermore, the AUCs of the previously mentioned models for the differentiation between osteopenia and normal were 0.994, 0.971, 0.996 in the training cohort and 0.990, 0.968, 0.908 in the validation cohort. The overall accuracy of the previously mentioned models for two-level classifications was 0.979, 0.955, 0.908 in the training cohort and 0.918, 0.885, 0.841 in the validation cohort. Decision curve analysis showed that all models had high clinical value. CONCLUSION: The feature fusion model can be used for osteoporosis and osteopenia prediction with improved predictive ability over a radiomics model or a DTL model alone.

Quantitative Analysis of Stress-Stretch Curves in Canine Lumbar Vertebrae Using Modified Logistic Functions.

BACKGROUND: The mechanical characteristics of bone are crucial for comprehending its functionality and response to different load conditions, which are essential for advancing medical treatments, implants, and prosthetics. By employing mathematical modeling to analyze the mechanical properties of bone, we can assess stress and deformation under both normal and abnormal conditions. This analysis offers valuable perspectives on potential fracture risks, the effects of diseases, and the effectiveness of various treatments. Therefore, researchers are attempting to find an adequate mathematical description of the mechanical properties of bone. METHODS: Experimental stress-stretch external loading curves were obtained through investigations of canine vertebrae. The obtained experimental curves were fitted using the SciPy Python library with a slightly modified logistic function (logistic function plus additional const). RESULTS: The resulting coefficient of determination R2 (R squared) for most curves was near 0.999, indicating that an appropriate fitting function was selected for the description of the experimental stress-stretch curves. CONCLUSIONS: The stress-stretch behavior of canine vertebrae can be described using a logistic function modified by adding additional parameters for the most accurate fitting results.

Acute Translation Fracture of the Lumbar Spine With Increased Motoric Outcomes: A Case Report.

Translation fracture of the lumbar spine is a rare but serious condition that necessitates prompt medical attention. This injury can cause nerve damage, spinal cord compression, and other complications that can affect motor function. The motoric outcomes of this fracture type depend on a variety of factors, including the severity and location of the fracture, the age and general health of the patient, and the timeliness and effectiveness of treatment. Accurate diagnosis and treatment of these injuries is important to prevent further neurological damage and improve motoric outcomes. Here we present the case of a male patient with a translation fracture at the L1-L2 level with AO spine type C who underwent immediate realignment and posterior stabilization, and subsequently participated in an early rehabilitation program, resulting in improved neurologic function. Thoracolumbar fracture with lateral dislocation is very rare and significant experience is needed to determine which management strategy can ensure the best outcome.

The impact of robotic assistance for lumbar fusion surgery on 90-day surgical outcomes and 1-year revisions.

Objectives: To evaluate the (1) 90-day surgical outcomes and (2) 1-year revision rate of robotic versus nonrobotic lumbar fusion surgery. Methods: Patients >18 years of age who underwent primary lumbar fusion surgery at our institution were identified and propensity-matched in a 1:1 fashion based on robotic assistance during surgery. Patient demographics, surgical characteristics, and surgical outcomes, including 90-day surgical complications and 1-year revisions, were collected. Multivariable regression analysis was performed. Significance was set to P < 0.05. Results: Four hundred and fifteen patients were identified as having robotic lumbar fusion and were matched to a control group. Bivariant analysis revealed no significant difference in total 90-day surgical complications (P = 0.193) or 1-year revisions (P = 0.178). The operative duration was longer in robotic surgery (287 + 123 vs. 205 + 88.3, P ≤ 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed that robotic fusion was not a significant predictor of 90-day surgical complications (odds ratio [OR] = 0.76 [0.32-1.67], P = 0.499) or 1-year revisions (OR = 0.58 [0.28-1.18], P = 0.142). Other variables identified as the positive predictors of 1-year revisions included levels fused (OR = 1.26 [1.08-1.48], P = 0.004) and current smokers (OR = 3.51 [1.46-8.15], P = 0.004). Conclusion: Our study suggests that robotic-assisted and nonrobotic-assisted lumbar fusions are associated with a similar risk of 90-day surgical complications and 1-year revision rates; however, robotic surgery does increase time under anesthesia.

Simulation of cancer progression in bone by a virtual thermal flux with a case study on lumbar vertebrae with multiple myeloma.

BACKGROUND: Two main problems examining the mechanism of cancer progression in the tissues using the computational models are lack of enough knowledge on the effective factors for such events in vivo environments and lack of specific parameters in the available computational models to simulate such complicated reactions. METHODS: In this study, it was tried to simulate the progression of cancerous lesions in the bone tissues by an independent parameter from the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the tissues, so to degrade the orthotropic mechanical properties of the bone tissues, a virtual temperature was determined to be used by a well-known framework for simulation of damages in the composite materials. First, the reliability of the FE model to simulate hyperelastic response in the intervertebral discs (IVDs) and progressive failure in the bony components were verified by simulation of some In-Vitro tests, available in the literature. Then, the progression of the osteolytic damage was simulated in a clinical case with multiple myeloma in the lumbar vertebrae. RESULTS: The FE model could simulate stress-shielding and diffusion of lesion in the posterior elements of the damaged vertebra which led to spinal stenosis. The load carrying shares associated with the anterior half and the posterior half of the examined vertebral body and the posterior elements were estimated equal to 41 %, 47 % and 12 %, respectively for the intact condition, that changed to 14 %, 16 % and 70 %, when lesion occupied one third of the vertebral body. CONCLUSION: Correlation of the FE results with the deformation shapes, observed in the MRIs for the clinical case study, indicated appropriateness of the procedure, proposed for simulation of the progressive osteolytic damage in the vertebral segments. The future studies may follow simulation of tumor growth for various metastatic tissues using the method, established here.

Percutaneous Endoscopic Suprapedicular Decompression in the Treatment of Down-Migrated Lumbar DiscHerniation.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of percutaneous endoscopic suprapedicular decompression in treatment of down-migrated lumbar disc herniation. METHODS: The clinical data of 43 patients with down-migrated lumbar disc herniation treated with endoscopic surgery at our hospital between January 2022 and January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Twenty-two and 21 patients underwent percutaneous endoscopic decompression using the suprapedicular and transforaminal endoscopic surgical system approaches, respectively. The perioperative, follow-up, and imaging data of the groups were compared. RESULTS: Surgery was uneventful in both groups. The number of intraoperative fluoroscopies and duration of surgery were significantly lower in the suprapedicular group (P < 0.05). The patients in both groups were followed up for at least 12 months. At the last follow-up, lumbar pain and leg pain visual analog scale, Oswestry Disability Index, and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey scores were significantly improved in both groups compared with preoperative values (P < 0.05); the differences in these indexes between the 2 groups were not significant preoperatively (P > 0.05). However, at the last postoperative follow-up, lumbar pain visual analog scale scores were significantly better in the suprapedicular group (0.83 ± 0.85 vs. 2.54 ± 1.32, P < 0.05). There was no significant change in intervertebral space height or lumbar lordotic angle compared with preoperative values in either group at the last follow-up (P > 0.05). However, the spinal canal cross-sectional area significantly increased (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The treatment of down-migrated lumbar disc herniation via a suprapedicular approach enabled the incision of the superior margin of the pedicle as needed under direct vision, involved less fluoroscopy while preserving facet joint stability, and enabled targeted removal of the herniated nucleus pulposus, thus greatly reducing residual nucleus pulposus. This surgical procedure was safe, rapid, and showed satisfactory therapeutic efficacy.

Correlates of sexual function in women with acute lumbar disc herniation in Iran: a cross-sectional study.

Evidence suggests that lumbar disc herniation (LDH) influences sexual function to a great deal. However, most existing studies have been conducted on men. Thus, the current study aimed to assess sexual function and its correlates in women with acute LDH. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 350 women of reproductive age with acute LDH in Fasa, Iran in 2023. The mean score of female sexual function was 21.33 (3.38). Almost 80% of women had sexual dysfunction. Women scored lower on sexual desire and the higher on lubrication. As the severity of LDH increased, arousal, lubrication and sexual pain score decreased and low back pain (LBP) score increased (p < 0.05). The number of sexual activities after disc herniation was significantly lower in the women with sexual dysfunction (p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed a significant association between sexual dysfunction and LBP intensity (OR = 1.13, CI 1.02-1.26, p = 0.01) and lumbar disc herniation intensity (OR = 2.22, CI 1.07-4.62, p = 0.03). Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) may significantly affect women's sexual function. Severity of low back pain and severity of lumbar disc herniation were found to be risk factors for sexual dysfunction in this population.