Back Pain Scores Research Articles

Clinical Outcome of Lumbar Hybrid Surgery in a Consecutive Series of Patients with Long-term Follow-up.

This was a retrospective study combined with attempted prospective patient contact to collect current data. The purpose of this study was to investigate long-term clinical outcome of patients undergoing lumbar hybrid surgery (total disc replacement (TDR) at one level and fusion at an adjacent level. Many patients with symptomatic lumbar disc degeneration are affected at more than one level. Lumbar TDR was introduced as a fusion alternative; however, some disc levels are not amenable to TDR and fusion is preferable at such levels. Hybrid surgery was introduced as an option to fusing multiple levels. A consecutive series of 305 patients undergoing lumbar hybrid surgery was identified beginning with the first case experience in 2005. Operative and clinical outcome data including visual analog scales (VAS) assessing back and leg pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and re-operations were collected. The mean follow-up duration was 67.1 months. There were statistically significant improvements (P<0.01) in the mean values of all three clinical outcome measures: VAS back pain scores improved from 6.7 to 3.3; leg pain improved from 4.3 to 2.0; and ODI scores improved from 45.5 to 24.6. There were no significant differences in pain and function scores for patients with minimum 10-year follow-up vs. those with shorter follow-up duration. Re-operation occurred in 16.1% of patients, many of which involved removal of posterior instrumentation at the fusion level (6.2% of study group, 38.8% of re-operations). Re-operation involving the TDR level occurred in 9 patients (2.9%), only 3 of which (1.0%) involved TDR removal/revision. This study supports that for many patients with multilevel symptomatic disc degeneration, hybrid surgery is a viable surgical option. Significant improvements were demonstrated in pain and function scores with no diminished improvement in scores among patients with more than 10-year follow-up.

Augmented Central Pain Processing Occurs after Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures and Is Associated with Residual Back Pain after Percutaneous Vertebroplasty.

A retrospective analysis. To investigate the occurrence of central sensitization (CS) in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) and identify the association between CS and residual back pain (RBP). RBP is a vexing complication that affects 6.3%-17.0% of patients with OVCFs who underwent percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP). Given the negative effect of RBP on patients' psychological and physiological statuses, efforts to preoperatively select patients who are at risk for RBP development have a high priority to offer additional treatment and minimize this complication. Preoperatively, all 160 patients with OVCFs underwent pressure-pain threshold (PPT), temporal summation (TS), conditioned pain modulation (CPM), and imaging assessments. Pain intensity and pain-related disability were evaluated before and after PVP. Preoperatively, patients with OVCFs had lower PPTs in both local pain and pain-free areas and lower CPM and higher TS in pain-free areas than healthy participants (p<0.05). Unlike patients with acute fractures, patients with subacute/chronic OVCFs showed higher TS with or without lower CPM in the pain-free area compared with healthy participants (p<0.05). Postoperatively, RBP occurred in 17 of 160 patients (10.6%). All preoperative covariates with significant differences between the RBP and non-RBP groups were subjected to multivariate logistic regression, showing that intravertebral vacuum cleft, posterior fascia edema, numeric rating pain scale scores for low back pain at rest, and TS were independently associated with RBP (p<0.05). Augmented central pain processing may occur in patients with OVCFs, even in the subacute stage, and this preexisting CS may be associated with RBP. Preoperative assessment of TS in pain-free areas may provide additional information for identifying patients who may be at risk of RBP development, which may be beneficial for preventing this complication.

Therapeutic effect of manual massage on early postpartum rectus abdominis separation and postpartum depression.

Rectus abdominis separation (DRA) affects pelvic stability and body image. No studies have explored the effects of manual massage on early postpartum DRA and postpartum depression. To analyze the curative effect of massage on early postpartum DRA and its impact on postpartum depression and thus its ability promote the overall psychosomatic rehabilitation of postpartum women. Data were retrospectively collected on 70 primiparous women with postpartum DRA who underwent rehabilitation at the Postpartum Rehabilitation Center of Huzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital from October 2022 to September 2023. The patients were divided into the Group S (35 cases, biomimetic electrical stimulation treatment) and Group L (35 cases, biomimetic electrical stimulation combined with manual massage treatment). Baseline data, the edinburgh postpartum depression scale (EPDS) score, and the visual analog scale (VAS) scores for rectus abdominis distance, waist circumference, and lower back pain before and after treatment were compared. No significant differences were found in the baseline data, rectus abdominis distance, waist circumference, and VAS and EPDS scores between the two groups before treatment (P > 0.05). After treatment, the distance between rectus abdominis and waist circumference in Group L were significantly smaller than those in Group S (P < 0.05). Furthermore, lower back pain (VAS score) and the EPDS score in Group L were significantly lower than those in Group S (P < 0.05). Manual massage can significantly reduce early postpartum DRA, waist circumference, and back pain and improve the patient's mental state and postpartum depression.

Prospective comparative study of unilateral biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for treatment of single-segment degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis with lumbar spondylolisthesis

To compare the effectiveness of unilateral biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (UBE-TLIF) and endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (Endo-TLIF) in the treatment of single-segment degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis with lumbar spondylolisthesis. Between November 2019 and May 2023, a total of 81 patients with single-segment degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis with lumbar spondylolisthesis who met the selection criteria were enrolled. They were randomly divided into UBE-TLIF group (39 cases) and Endo-TLIF group (42 cases). There was no significant difference in baseline data between the two groups ( P>0.05), including gender, age, body mass index, surgical segment, and preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for low back and leg pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and serum markers including creatine kinase (CK) and C reactive protein (CRP). Total blood loss (TBL), intraoperative blood loss, hidden blood loss (HBL), postoperative drainage volume, and operation time were recorded and compared between the two groups. Serum markers (CK, CRP) levels were compared between the two groups at 1 day before operation and 1, 3, and 5 days after operation. Furthermore, the VAS scores for low back and leg pain, and ODI at 1 day before operation and 1 day, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after operation, and intervertebral fusion rate at 12 months after operation were compared between the two groups. All surgeries were completed successfully without occurrence of incision infection, vascular or nerve injury, epidural hematoma, dural tear, or postoperative paraplegia. The operation time in UBE-TLIF group was significantly shorter than that in Endo-TLIF group, but the intraoperative blood loss, TBL, and HBL in UBE-TLIF group were significantly more than those in Endo-TLIF group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative drainage volume between the two groups ( P>0.05). The levels of CK at 1 day and 3 days after operation and CRP at 1, 3, and 5 days after operation in UBE-TLIF group were slightly higher than those in the Endo-TLIF group ( P<0.05), while there was no significant difference in the levels of CK and CPR between the two groups at other time points ( P>0.05). All patients were followed up 12 months. VAS score of low back and leg pain and ODI at each time point after operation significantly improved when compared with those before operation in the two groups ( P<0.05); there was no significant difference in VAS score of low back and leg pain and ODI between the two groups at each time point after operation ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference in the intervertebral fusion rate between the two groups at 12 months after operation ( P>0.05). UBE-TLIF and Endo-TLIF are both effective methods for treating degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis with lumbar spondylolisthesis. However, compared to Endo-TLIF, UBE-TLIF requires further improvement in minimally invasive techniques to reduce tissue trauma and blood loss.

Predictive value of nerve root sedimentation sign in diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis

To explore the predictive value of the nerve root sedimentation sign in the diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Between January 2019 and July 2021, 201 patients with non-specific low back pain (NS-LBP) who met the selection criteria were retrospectively analyzed. There were 67 males and 134 females, with an age of 50-80 years (mean, 60.7 years). Four intervertebral spaces (L 1, 2, L 2, 3, L 3, 4, L 4, 5) of each case were studied, with a total of 804. The nerve root sedimentation sign was positive in 126 intervertebral spaces, and central canal stenosis was found in 203 intervertebral spaces. Progression to symptomatic LSS was determined by follow-up for lower extremity symptoms similar to LSS, combined with central spinal stenosis. Univariate analysis was performed for gender, age, visual analogue scale (VAS) score for low back pain at initial diagnosis, treatment, dural sac cross-sectional area at each intervertebral space, number of spinal stenosis segments, lumbar spinal stenosis grade, positive nerve root sedimentation sign, and number of positive segments between patients in the progression group and non-progression group, and logistic regression analysis was further performed to screen the risk factors for progression to symptomatic LSS in patients with NS-LBP. All patients were followed up 17-48 months, with an average of 32 months. Of 201 patients with NS-LBP, 35 progressed to symptomatic LSS. Among them, 33 cases also had central spinal stenosis, which was defined as NS-LBP progressing to symptomatic LSS (33 cases in progression group, 168 cases in non-progression group). Univariate analysis showed that CSA at each intervertebral space, the number of spinal stenosis segments, lumbar spinal stenosis grade, whether the nerve root sedimentation sign was positive, and the number of nerve root sedimentation sign positive segments were the influencing factors for the progression to symptomatic LSS ( P<0.05); and further logistic regression analysis showed that positive nerve root sedimentation sign increased the risk of progression of NS-LBP to symptomatic LSS ( OR=8.774, P<0.001). The nerve root sedimentation sign may be associated with the progression of NS-LBP to symptomatic LSS, and it has certain predictive value for the diagnosis of LSS.

Expression of cytokines at baseline correlate/predict in the disc the outcome of surgery after disc degeneration: A 12-month follow-up study.

Low back pain (LBP) is a highly prevalent condition that comprise a large portion of outpatient practice, challenging the diagnosis and treatment. However, the diagnostic tools are limited to clinical history, physical examination and imaging. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a significant cause of LBP, and emerging literature confirms the elevated levels of biomarkers in the discs. These biomarkers may serve as a tool for diagnosis, but may also be useful in predicting the treatment outcome. Here, we examine the expression of various cytokines on 1-year recovery from patients with LBP. Patient-reported outcome (PRO) in terms of pain intensity (VAS), disability (ODI), and quality of life (Eq-5D) is collected from 44 patients at baseline and 12 months after surgery to study the influence of baseline TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 mRNA expression in both annulus fibrosus (AF) and nucleus pulposus (NP). Between baseline and follow-up, our cohort showed improvement in VAS back pain (p < 0.001), VAS leg pain (p < 0.001), ODI (p = 0.02), and Eq-5D (p = 0.01). Baseline levels of IL-1 β was positively correlated with VAS back pain scores in AF (p = 0.05) and NP (p = 0.01) at 1-year follow-up. TNF-α expression at baseline was also positively correlated to ODI scores (p = 0.01) at follow-up and inversely correlated to improvements in ODI score between baseline and follow-up, suggesting that high TNF-α expression at baseline is associated with poor outcomes from surgery. The results from our study support that TNF-α expression at baseline can serve as a very important predictor of treatment response from lumbar fusion surgery.

Long-Term Incidence of Adjacent Segmental Pathology After Minimally Invasive vs. Open Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion.

Retrospective cohort study. To compare the incidence of adjacent segmental pathology (ASP) following minimally invasive (MI) vs open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) and to identify factors linked to ASP requiring reoperation. This retrospective study reviewed the outcomes of patients who underwent MI-TLIF or open TLIF. Radiographic ASP (RASP) was evaluated using X-ray imaging to distinguish between degenerative changes, spondylolisthesis, and instability in the adjacent spinal segment. Clinical ASP (CASP) was assessed with the visual analog scale score for leg and back pain and the Oswestry disability index. Patient data were collected 1, 2, 5, and 10 years postoperatively. The timing and frequency of ASP reoperation were analyzed. Five years postoperatively, the RASP rate was 35.23% and 45.95% in the MI-TLIF and open TLIF groups. The frequency of CASP differed significantly between the MI-TLIF and open TLIF groups at 1 year postoperatively. The rates of RASP, CASP, and ASP necessitating reoperation were not significantly different 10years postoperatively. Cranial facet violation significantly affected ASP in both groups. In the open TLIF group, preoperative adjacent segment disc degeneration significantly influenced ASP. The RASP rate at 5years postoperatively and the CASP rate at 1year postoperatively differed significantly between groups. There was no difference in the rate of ASP requiring reoperation. Cranial facet violation is a crucial driving factor for ASP after both surgical procedures.

Effects of pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercises during pregnancy on improving perinatal pelvic floor function in primiparous women

Objective: To explore the effects of pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercises during pregnancy on improving pelvic floor function in primiparous women during the perinatal period. Methods: A single-center prospective study selected 200 primipara of singleton pregnancies with prenatal care and delivery established at Shanghai Tongren hospital from June 2022 to June 2023 as the study subjects. Participants were divided into two groups: the exercise group (100 cases) and the control group (100 cases) by using a random number table method, five participants dropped out of the study due to reasons such as follow-up failure. Ultimately, the exercise group consisted of 97 cases, while the control group consisted of 98 cases. Participants who engaged in pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercises for at least 3 months, exercising once a week, were included in the exercise group. Those who did not engage in exercise were included in control group. Comparing the two groups in terms of pregnancy discomfort symptoms, delivery outcomes, postpartum pelvic floor electromyography results, postpartum quality of life, and pelvic floor disease incidence. The statistical methods utilized included independent t-test, Pearson chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Results: In the late stage of pregnancy, the VAS score for low back pain was 5.05±1.22 in the exercise group and 5.47±1.55 in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (t=2.090, P<0.05). The PFDI-20 score was 23.33±8.41 in the exercise group and 25.76±8.34 in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (t=2.026, P<0.05). The PFIQ-7 score was 19.21±7.69 in the exercise group and 26.66±6.19 in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (t=6.851, P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in sleep quality and incidence of urinary incontinence between the two groups in late pregnancy (t=1.252, P=0.396, P>0.05). In terms of childbirth outcomes, the exercise group had a vaginal delivery rate of 81.44% (79 cases), while the control group had a rate of 64.28% (63 cases), with a statistically significant difference (χ2=9.022, P<0.05). The duration of the second stage of labor was (42.68±21.38) minutes in the exercise group and (50.54±21.33) minutes in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (t=2.178, P<0.05). At 42 days postpartum, the evaluation of pelvic floor function showed that the vaginal pressure in the exercise group was 62.19±10.04, while in the control group it was 52.68±15.55, with a statistically significant difference (t=-5.074, P<0.05). The MOS grading in the exercise group was 3.82±1.26, whereas in the control group it was 2.34±1.55, with a statistically significant difference (t=-7.355, P<0.05). In terms of the incidence of postpartum pelvic floor disorders, the occurrence of pelvic organ prolapse was 7.22% in the exercise group and 12.24% in the control group, with no statistically significant difference (χ2=1.402, P>0.05). The occurrence rate of stress urinary incontinence was 13.4% in the exercise group and 30.61% in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (P=0.015, P<0.05). Conclusion: Pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercises may have some advantages in reducing symptoms related to perinatal pelvic floor dysfunction, enhancing pelvic floor function, and preventing the occurrence of pelvic floor disease.

Minimally Invasive Trans-sacral Canal Plasty for Lumbar Canal Stenosis.

Objective The elderly population is increasing in Japan. Along with the increase in the elderly population, the number of patients with lumbar degenerative diseases is also on the rise. In general, elderly patients tend to have more complications and are at higher risk for surgery. Many elderly people suffer from lumbar degenerative disease. We reviewed our initial experience with trans-sacral canal plasty (TSCP) for patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis and examined the pertinent literature for this report. Methods An analytical observational study was performed on 120 patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis who underwent TSCP at our single institution from March 2019 to October 2021. These patients had leg pain and/or lower back pain due to degenerative lumbar disease. Patients who had coagulation abnormality, pregnancy, contrast allergy, pyogenic spondylitis, or spinal metastasis were excluded. Results Immediately after TSCP, the average Visual AnalogScale (VAS) score for back pain improved from 58.2 to 29.3, and for leg pain from 72.0 to 31.3. Two years after TSCP, the average VAS score for back pain increased slightly and the average score for leg pain remained almost the same. Additional surgery was performed in 37 of 120 (31%) patients who underwent TSCP. The additional surgery group had significantly worse back pain at one and three months postoperatively than the conservative treatment group. The additional surgery group had significantly worse leg pain immediately after TSCP and at one and three months postoperatively than the conservative treatment group. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that a decreased spinal canal area (OR 0.986, p = 0.039) was associated with additional surgery. Conclusions We reviewed the outcomes of TSCP at our hospital. The average VAS score for back pain and leg pain improved. However, 31% of patients who underwent TSCP required additional surgery. It was found that the spinal canal area was a major factor in the need for additional surgery.

Surgical Management of Thoracolumbar Adjacent Segment Disease: Techniques and Outcomes in 107 Patients Undergoing Surgical Intervention.

Adjacent segment disease (ASD) is a known sequela of thoracolumbar instrumented fusions. Various surgical options are available to address ASD in patients with intractable symptoms who have failed conservative measures. However, the optimal treatment strategy for symptomatic ASD has not been established. We examined several clinical outcomes utilizing different surgical interventions for symptomatic ASD. A retrospective review was performed for a consecutive series of patients undergoing revision surgery for thoracolumbar ASD between October 2011 and February 2022. Patients were treated with endoscopic decompression (N = 17), microdiscectomy (N = 9), lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF; N = 26), or open laminectomy and fusion (LF; N = 55). The primary outcomes compared between groups were re-operation rates and numeric pain scores for leg and back at 2 weeks, 10 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postoperation. Secondary outcomes included time to re-operation, estimated blood loss, and length of stay. Of the 257 patients who underwent revision surgery for symptomatic ASD, 107 patients met inclusion criteria with a minimum of 1-year follow-up. The mean age of all patients was 67.90 ± 10.51 years. There was no statistically significant difference between groups in age, gender, preoperative American Society of Anesthesiologists scoring, number of previously fused levels, or preoperative numeric leg and back pain scores. The re-operation rates were significantly lower in LF (12.7%) and LLIF cohorts (19.2%) compared with microdiscectomy (33%) and endoscopic decompression (52.9%; P = 0.005). Only LF and LLIF cohorts experienced significantly decreased pain scores at all 4 follow-up visits (2 weeks, 10 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months; P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively) relative to preoperative scores. Symptomatic ASD often requires treatment with revision surgery. Fusion surgeries (either stand-alone lateral interbody or posterolateral with instrumentation) were most effective and durable with respect to alleviating pain and avoiding additional revisions within the first 12 months following revision surgery. This study emphasizes the importance of risk-stratifying patients to identify the least invasive approach that treats their symptoms and reduces the risk of future surgeries.

Impact of educational background on preoperative disease severity and postoperative outcomes among patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis: a Quality Outcomes Database study.

Deficiency in patient education has been correlated with increased disease-related morbidity and decreased access to care. However, the associations between educational level, preoperative disease severity, and postoperative outcomes in patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis have yet to be explored. The spondylolisthesis dataset of the Quality Outcomes Database (QOD)-a cohort with prospectively collected data by the SpineCORe study team of the 12 highest enrolling sites with an 81% follow-up at 5 years -was utilized and stratified for educational level. Patients were classified into three categories (high school or less, graduate, or postgraduate). Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) documented at baseline and follow-up included Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, EQ-5D in quality-adjusted life years, and numeric rating scale (NRS) scores for back and leg pain. Disease severity was measured with PROMs. Postoperatively, patients also completed the North American Spine Society assessment to measure their satisfaction with surgery. Multivariable regression analysis was used to compare education level with disease severity and postoperative outcomes. A total of 608 patients underwent analysis, with 260 individuals (42.8%) at an educational level of high school or less. On univariate analysis, baseline disease severity was worse among patients with lower levels of education. On multivariable regression analysis, patients with postgraduate level of education had significantly lower ODI scores (β = -3.75, 95% CI -7.31 to -0.2, p = 0.039) compared to graduates, while the other PROMs were not associated with significant differences at baseline. Five years postoperatively, patients from various educational backgrounds exhibited similar rates of minimal clinically important differences in PROMs. Nevertheless, patients with the lowest educational level had higher ODI scores (27.1, p < 0.01), lower EQ-5D scores (0.701, p < 0.01), and higher NRS leg pain (3.0, p < 0.01) and back pain (4.0, p < 0.01) scores compared to those with graduate or postgraduate levels of education. The odds for postoperative satisfaction were also comparable between cohorts at 5 years (reference, graduate level; high school or less, OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.46-1.64, p = 0.659; postgraduate, OR 1.6, 95% CI 0.7-3.65, p = 0.262). Lower patient education level was associated with a greater baseline disease severity in patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis. Surgery demonstrated similar benefits irrespective of educational background; however, individuals with lower educational level reported lower outcomes overall. This emphasizes the need for enhanced health literacy to mitigate disparities for reported outcomes.

Efficacy of PE-PLIF with a novel ULBD approach for lumbar degeneration diseases: a large-channel endoscopic retrospective study

PurposeThis study aims to assess the effectiveness of Percutaneous Endoscopic Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PE-PLIF) combined with a novel Unilateral Laminotomy for Bilateral Decompression (ULBD) approach using a large-channel endoscope in treating Lumbar Degenerative Diseases (LDD).MethodsThis retrospective analysis evaluates 41 LDD patients treated with PE-PLIF and ULBD from January 2021 to June 2023. A novel ULBD approach, called ‘Non-touch Over-Top’ technique, was utilized in this study. We compared preoperative and postoperative metrics such as demographic data, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, surgical details, and radiographic changes.ResultsThe average follow-up duration was 14.41 ± 2.86 months. Notable improvements were observed postoperatively in VAS scores for back and leg pain (from 5.56 ± 0.20 and 6.95 ± 0.24 to 0.20 ± 0.06 and 0.12 ± 0.05), ODI (from 58.68 ± 0.80% to 8.10 ± 0.49%), and JOA scores (from 9.37 ± 0.37 to 25.07 ± 0.38). Radiographic measurements showed significant improvements in lumbar and segmental lordosis angles, disc height, and spinal canal area. A high fusion rate (97.56% at 6 months, 100% at 12 months) and a low cage subsidence rate (2.44%) were noted.ConclusionsPE-PLIF combined with the novel ULBD technique via a large-channel endoscope offers significant short-term benefits for LDD management. The procedure effectively expands spinal canal volume, decompresses nerve structures, improves lumbar alignment, and stabilizes the spine. Notably, it improves patients' quality of life and minimizes complications, highlighting its potential as a promising LDD treatment option.

Physical Activity and Pain During Pregnancy

Low back and pelvic girdle pain are prevalent during pregnancy, impacting about 50% of pregnant women. Previous studies conducted on the general population have suggested that physical activity has been associated with reductions in pain levels. Purpose: To determine if women with higher levels of physical activity experience less low back and pelvic girdle pain and lower disability scores than women who are less physically active. Methods: Pregnant women (n=24, 32.2 ± 4.1 years) were recruited between 28- and 32-weeks gestation. Participants reported their weekly physical activity, responded to subjective pain surveys, and underwent a battery of objective pain testing. Spearman’s-rho was used to assess correlations between physical activity scores and each subjective pain measure. Results: Tests for correlation between pregnancy physical activity scores and pain domain measures were not significant (ps&gt;0.05), so no relationship could be determined between physical activity levels and low back/pelvic girdle pain based on this study. Conclusion: This study was not able to identify a significant correlation between physical activity levels and low back/pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy.

Less Invasive Triangular Osteosynthesis in the Management of AO Type-B Unstable Sacral Fractures

Objective: This prospective cohort study investigated the clinical and radiological efficacy of triangular osteosynthesis (TO) in the management of AO type-B unstable sacral fractures.Methods: All patients with unstable AO type-B sacral fractures were included in this study. They were evaluated clinically and radiologically and underwent TO. Pre- and postoperative clinical parameters included the visual analogue score (VAS) for back pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Gibbon classification. Radiological parameters included x-rays and multislice 3-dimensional computed tomography scans of the pelvis and the Tornetta and Matta criteria for fracture reduction.Results: This study included 30 patients (17 males and 13 females; mean age, 31.63±9.65 years). The reported causes of trauma were a fall from height in 17 patients, road traffic accident in 11 patients, and hard objects falling onto the pelvis in 2 patients. According to the AO spine sacral fracture classification system, 8 cases were type B2 and 22 were type B3. At the last postoperative follow-up, the mean VAS improved from 7.77±1.19 preoperatively to 3.97±1.59 (p&lt;0.001), the mean ODI was 15.27±3.34, and the Gibbon classification of cauda equina injury improved from 2.87±0.97 preoperatively to 1.27±0.52 (p&lt;0.001). According to Tornetta and Matta criteria for fracture reduction, the results were excellent (&lt;4 mm) in 73.3% of patients, good (4–10 mm) in 20%, and fair (10–20 mm) in 6.7%. All patients experienced complete fracture healing.Conclusion: TO is a less invasive, safe, and effective option for the management of unstable AO type-B sacral fractures with good clinical and radiological outcomes.

Clinical effect of full endoscopic lumbar annulus fibrosus suture

PurposeThe aim of this study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of full endoscopic lumbar annulus fibrosus suture in the treatment of single-segment lumbar disc herniation (LDH).MethodsThe clinical data of patients with single-segment LDH who underwent full endoscopic lumbar discectomy from January 2017 to January 2019 in our hospital were retrospectively analysed. Patients with full endoscopic lumbar discectomy combined with annulus fibrosus suture were divided into group A, and those with simple full endoscopic lumbar discectomy were divided into group B. The general information, surgery-related data, visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), modified MacNab score at the last follow-up, reoperation rate and recurrence were compared between the two groups.ResultsAll patients were followed up for 12 to 24 months, and the surgical time was 133.6 ± 9.6 min in group A and 129.0 ± 11.7 min in group B. The difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The blood loss of group A was higher than that of group B, and the difference was statistically significant when comparing the groups (p < 0.05). The postoperative symptoms of patients in both groups were significantly relieved, and the VAS score of low back pain and ODI index were significantly lower than the preoperative ones at all postoperative time points (1 month after surgery, 3 months after surgery, and at the last follow-up) (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the groups (p > 0.05). The excellent rate of MacNab at the last follow-up in the two groups were 93.55% and 87.80%, respectively, with no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). At the last follow-up, the recurrence rate of group A was significantly lower than that of group B, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05), while the difference between the reoperation rate of the two groups was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).ConclusionsFull endoscopic lumbar discectomy combined with annulus fibrosus repair reduces the postoperative recurrence rate and achieves satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Short-term lumbar disc and lumbar stability changes of one-hole split endoscope technique treatment of spinal stenosis

ObjectiveInvestigating the early biomechanical effects of the one-hole split endoscope (OSE) technique on lumbar spine after decompression surgery.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 66 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) who underwent OSE technique surgery at the affiliated hospital of Binzhou Medical University from September 2021 to September 2022. The patients had complete postoperative follow-up records. The mean age was (51.73 ± 12.42) years, including 33 males and 33 females. The preoperative and postoperative imaging data were analyzed, including disc height (DH), foraminal height (FH), lumbar lordosis angle (LLA), changes in disc angle, anterior-posterior translation distance, and lumbar intervertebral disc Pfirrmann grading. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was applied to evaluate the severity of preoperative, postoperative day 1, postoperative 3 months, and final follow-up for back and leg pain. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) was applied to assess the functionality at all the listed time points. The modified MacNab criteria were applied to evaluate the clinical efficacy at the final follow-up.ResultsIn 66 patients, there were statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in DH and FH at the affected segments compared to preoperative values, whereas no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found in DH and FH at the adjacent upper segments compared to preoperative values. There was no statistically significant difference in the LLA compared to preoperative values (p > 0.05). Both the affected segments and adjacent upper segments showed statistically significant differences in Pfirrmann grading compared to preoperative values (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the changes in disc angle or anterior-posterior translation distance in the affected or adjacent segments compared to preoperative values (p > 0.05). The VAS scores for back and leg pain, as well as the ODI, significantly improved at all postoperative time points compared to preoperative values. Among the comparisons at different time points, the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The clinical efficacy was evaluated at the final follow-up using the modified MacNab criteria, with 51 cases rated as excellent, 8 cases as good, and 7 cases as fair, resulting in an excellent-good rate of 89.39%.ConclusionsThe OSE technique, as a surgical option for decompression in the treatment of LSS, has no significant impact on lumbar spine stability in the early postoperative period. However, it does have some effects on the lumbar intervertebral discs, which may lead to a certain degree of degeneration.

Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Decompression with Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression for Lumbar Degenerative Diseases: A Meta-Analysis

Unilateral biportal endoscopic decompression (UBED) offers the advantages of minimal tissue damage, operational flexibility, and clear visualization, positioning it as an innovative and minimally invasive endoscopic technique. Nevertheless, the clinical evidence supporting the use of UBED in the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases is limited and conflicting. As of October 1, 2023, a comprehensive search was conducted across databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to identify all published studies on minimally invasive UBED for the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases. Data pertaining to patient demographics, fluoroscopy time, operative duration, intraoperative hemorrhage, hospitalization length, visual analog scale (VAS) score for back and leg pain, MacNab criteria, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and complication rates were extracted. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was utilized to assess the quality. Twelve articles were included, involving 816 patients. The back VAS score (95% confidence interval [CI]:-0.09-0.07, P= 0.75), MacNab criteria (95% CI: 0.52-2.3, P= 0.82), fluoroscopy time (95% CI:-7.03 to -0.4, P= 0.08), and the incidence of complications (95% CI: 0.5-1.73, P= 0.82) were not significantly different, while the leg VAS score (95% CI: 0.01-0.18, P= 0.03), ODI score (95% CI:-1.03 to -0.09, P= 0.02), operation time (95% CI: 5.76-20.62, P= 0.0005), hospitalization length (95% CI: 0.41-2.76, P= 0.008), and intraoperative hemorrhage (95% CI: 21.92-72.44, P= 0.0003) were significantly different. UBED offers superiority in ODI, flexibility, and visual field clarity. Conversely, percutaneous endoscopic lumbar decompression presents advantages in terms of operation duration, blood loss, hospitalization length, and leg VAS score. These factors should be thoroughly considered when selecting a surgical approach.

Comparative outcomes of obese and non-obese patients with lumbar disc herniation receiving full endoscopic transforaminal discectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the impact of full endoscopic transforaminal discectomy (FETD) on clinical outcomes and complications in both obese and non-obese patients presenting with lumbar disc herniation (LDH).MethodsA systematic search of relevant literature was conducted across various primary databases until November 18, 2023. Operative time and hospitalization were evaluated. Clinical outcomes included preoperative and postoperative assessments of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, conducted to delineate improvements at 3 months postoperatively and during the final follow-up, respectively. Complications were also documented.ResultsFour retrospective studies meeting inclusion criteria provided a collective cohort of 258 patients. Obese patients undergoing FETD experienced significantly longer operative times compared to non-obese counterparts (P = 0.0003). Conversely, no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in hospitalization duration, improvement of VAS for back and leg pain scores at 3 months postoperatively and final follow-up, improvement of ODI at 3 months postoperatively and final follow-up. Furthermore, the overall rate of postoperative complications was higher in the obese group (P = 0.02). The obese group demonstrated a total incidence of complications of 17.17%, notably higher than the lower rate of 9.43% observed in the non-obese group.ConclusionThe utilization of FETD for managing LDH in individuals with obesity is associated with prolonged operative times and a higher total complication rate compared to their non-obese counterparts. Nevertheless, it remains a safe and effective surgical intervention for treating herniated lumbar discs in the context of obesity.

Radiographic and clinical outcomes of robot-assisted pedicle screw instrumentation for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Pedicle screw instrumentation (PSI) serves as the widely accepted surgical treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The accuracy of screw positioning has remarkably improved with robotic assistance. Nonetheless, its impact on radiographic and clinical outcomes remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the radiographic and clinical outcomes of robot-assisted PSI vs. conventional freehand method in AIS patients. Data of AIS patients who underwent PSI with all pedicle screws between April 2013 and March 2022 were included and retrospectively analyzed; those with hybrid implants were excluded. Recruited individuals were divided into the Robot-assisted or Freehand group according to the technique used. Radiographic parameters and clinical outcome measures were documented. In total, 50 patients (19, Freehand group; 31, Robot-assisted group) were eligible, with an average age and follow-up period of 17.6 years and 60.2 months, respectively, and female predominance (40/50, 80.0%). The correction rates of Cobb's angles for both groups were significant postoperatively. Compared to freehand, the robot-assisted technique achieved a significantly reduced breech rate and provided better trunk shift and radiographic shoulder height correction with preserved lumbar lordosis, resulting in significantly improved visual analog scale scores for back pain from the third postoperative month. Overall, robot-assisted PSI provides satisfactory radiographic and clinical outcomes in AIS patients.

Comparison of the Clinical Effects of Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic and Microscopic Lumbar Discectomy

Introduction : Micro discectomy is the surgical procedure of choice for treating lumbar disc herniations. A laminectomy can cause instability, significant epidural fibrosis, continued radiated pain, and surgical site infection, although there is still concern about the dangers of muscle damage, such as to the multifidus, and excessive articular facet resection. Unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy has been suggested as a less invasive therapeutic approach.Objective: To compare the clinical effects in terms of pain, impairment, and complications associated with percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy with standard micro discectomy for the treatment of disc herniations. Materials and methods: A study of 60 people with disc herniations who were treated with either microdiscectomy or unilateral biportal endoscopic lumbar discectomy. The Oswestry Disability Index and visual analogue score for back and leg pain was evaluated after three, six, and twelve months. Results: In comparison to Group E, Group M's mean operating time was substantially lower (p&lt;0.05). In addition, it took group M more time on average to get back to work. (p&lt;0.05), and the VAS score at 3 showed a statistically significant change (p&lt;0.05). At three months, group M's Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability score was considerably greater than group E's. (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: In terms of a three-month return to work and wound infections, endoscopic surgery has a little advantage over microscopic surgery. Both techniques are efficient and safe for lumbar discectomy. However, after 6 months of follow-up, the results seem to be comparable. Keywords: Intervertebral Disc Prolapse, Discectomy, Endoscopy, Intervertebral Disc, Micro Discectomy, Visual Analog Scale, Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Score