Cases Of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Research Articles

Clinicoradiological Risk Factors Associated with Inability to Achieve Minimum Clinically Important Difference in Operated Cases of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy.

This is a retrospective cohort study. This study aimed to identify the clinicoradiological risk factors associated with the inability to achieve minimum clinically important difference (MCID) on the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) Scale in operated cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Only a few studies have evaluated the outcomes of surgery performed for CSM using MCID on the mJOA scale. We analyzed 124 operated CSM cases from March 2019 to April 2021 for preoperative clinical features, cervical sagittal radiographic parameters, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal intensities (SI). The risk factors associated with missing the MCID (poor outcome) on mJOA at the final follow-up were identified using binary logistic regression. Multivariate analysis was used to find significant risk factors, and odds ratios (OR) were computed. A total of 110 men (89.2%) and 14 women (10.8%) with an average age of 53.5±13.2 years were included in the analysis. During the last follow-up, 89 cases (72.1%) achieved MCID (meaningful gains following surgery) while 35 (27.9%) could not. The final model identified the following parameters as significant risk factors for poor outcome: increased duration of symptoms (OR, 6.77; p=0.001), lower preoperative mJOA scale (OR, 0.75; p=0.029), the presence of multilevel T2-weighted (T2W) MRI SI (OR, 4.79; p=0.004), and larger change in cervical sagittal vertical axis (ΔcSVA) (OR, 1.06; p=0.013). Also, an increase in cSVA postoperatively correlated with a reduced functional recovery rate (r=-0.4, p<0.001). Surgery for CSM leads to significant functional benefits. However, poorer outcomes are observed in cases of greater duration of symptoms, higher preoperative severity with multilevel T2W MRI SI, and a larger increase in the postoperative cSVA (sagittal imbalance).

A Retrospective Cohort Study of a Modified Open-Door Laminoplasty With Reconstruction of The Cervical Posterior Ligamental Complex to Decrease Axial Pain in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Background: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients with multiple segments are usually treated with surgery via the posterior approach, but expansive open laminoplasty (ELAP) often results in heavy, rigid, and acid bilge feelings in the neck, shoulder, and back, collectively known as axial symptoms. To evaluate the effect of modified posterior cervical ligament complex reconstruction and single-door laminoplasty with titanium plate fixation on postoperative axial symptoms in patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study including 132 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy at our institute from June 2016 to March 2018. The patients who conformed to the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into two different surgical groups by by the surgeons. Gender, age, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, post-operative drainage volume, and follow-up time, Visual analogue scoring (VAS), cervical curvature index (CCI) and the cross-sectional area of the posterior cervical muscles of the two groups were recorded. Results: There was statistical significance in the incidence of axial pain 3 months after surgery (P = 0.001), 6 months after surgery (P = 0.006), and 1 year after surgery (P = 0.015). Compared to group b, the VAS score in group A was decreased one month (P &lt;0.0001), 3 months (P=0.0001), 6 months(P=0.0076), and 1 year(P=0.0085) after surgery. The CCI and the posterior cervical muscle area also differed significantly between the two groups (P &lt; 0.0001). Conclusions: Modified single open-door laminoplasty could relieve cervical axial pain in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy

A Retrospective Cohort Study of a Modified Open-Door Laminoplasty With Reconstruction of The Cervical Posterior Ligamental Complex to Decrease Axial Pain in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Background: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients with multiple segments are usually treated with surgery via the posterior approach, but expansive open laminoplasty (ELAP) often results in heavy, rigid, and acid bilge feelings in the neck, shoulder, and back, collectively known as axial symptoms. To evaluate the effect of modified posterior cervi- cal ligament complex reconstruction and single-door laminoplasty with titanium plate fixation on postoperative axial symptoms in patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study including 132 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy at our institute from June 2016 to March 2018. The patients who conformed to the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into two different surgical groups by by the surgeons. Gender, age, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, post-operative drainage volume, and follow-up time, Visual analogue scoring (VAS), cervical curvature index (CCI) and the cross-sec- tional area of the posterior cervical muscles of the two groups were recorded. Results: There was statistical significance in the incidence of axial pain 3 months after surgery (P = 0.001), 6 months after surgery (P = 0.006), and 1 year after surgery (P = 0.015). Compared to group b, the VAS score in group A was decreased one month (P &lt;0.0001), 3 months (P=0.0001), 6 months(P=0.0076), and 1 year(P=0.0085) after surgery. The CCI and the posterior cervical muscle area also differed significantly between the two groups (P &lt; 0.0001). Conclusions: Modified single open-door laminoplasty could relieve cervical axial pain in patients with cervical spon- dylotic myelopathy

Influence of Preoperative Sagittal Alignment on Functional Recovery in Operated Cases of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy.

Objective We examine the influence of preoperative cervical sagittal curvature (lordotic or nonlordotic) on the functional recovery of surgically managed cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). The impact of sagittal alignment on the functional improvement of operated CSM cases has not been thoroughly investigated. Materials and Methods We did retrospective analysis of consecutively operated cases of CSM from March 2019 to April 2021. Patients were grouped into two categories: lordotic curvature (with Cobb angle > 10 degrees) and nonlordotic curvature (including neutral [Cobb angle 0-10 degrees] and kyphotic [Cobb angle < 0 degrees]). Demographic data, and preoperative and postoperative functional outcome scores (modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association [mJOA] and Nurick grade) were analyzed for dependency on preoperative curvature, and correlations between outcomes and sagittal parameters were assessed. Results In the analysis of 124 cases, 63.1% (78 cases) were lordotic (mean Cobb angle of 23.57 ± 9.1 degrees; 11-50 degrees) and 36.9% (46 cases) were nonlordotic (mean Cobb angle of 0.89 ± 6.5 degrees; -11 to 10 degrees), 32 cases (24.6%) had neutral alignment, and 14 cases (12.3%) had kyphotic alignment. At the final follow-up, the mean change in mJOA score, Nurick grade, and functional recovery rate (mJOArr) were not significantly different between the lordotic and nonlordotic group. In the nonlordotic group, cases with anterior surgery had a significantly better mJOArr than those with posterior surgery ( p = 0.04), whereas there was similar improvement with either approach in lordotic cases. In the nonlordotic group, patients who gained lordosis (78.1%) had better recovery rates than those who had lost lordosis (21.9%). However, this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion We report noninferiority of the functional outcome in the cases with preoperative nonlordotic alignment when compared with those with lordotic alignment. Further, nonlordotic patients who were approached anteriorly fared better than those approached posteriorly. Although increasing sagittal imbalance in nonlordotic spines portend toward higher preoperative disability, gain in lordosis in such cases may improve results. We recommend further studies with larger nonlordotic subjects to elucidate the impact of sagittal alignment on functional outcome.

The Deterioration of Cervical Kyphosis During Neck Flexion after Laminoplasty Affects the Surgical Outcome of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy.

A retrospective single-center study. The present study investigated whether postoperative cervical alignment changes, in addition to preoperative patient backgrounds, imaging parameters, and disease severity, affect outcomes 1 year after laminoplasty. One hundred and three cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) patients who underwent laminoplasty were enrolled. Preoperative and postoperative (1-year) Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores, cervical alignment, and balance on X-rays were assessed. Patients were classified into 2 groups for a univariate analysis according to the status of the recovery rate (RR) of the JOA score ≥50%. A multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with good surgical outcomes a. The mean RR of the JOA score was 47.5% and the loss of cervical lordosis in the neutral position was 5.5°. The univariate analysis revealed slight differences in age, sex, and the duration of disease. Preoperative C2-7 angles were not significantly different. The C2-7 angle during flexion after surgery was significantly smaller in Group F. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, significant factors associated with the status of RR≥50% were a younger age (OR: .75, 95%CI: .59-.96), shorter duration of disease (OR: .94, 95%CI: .89-.99), and a lordotic C2-7 angle during neck flexion after surgery (OR: 1.47, 95%CI: 1.1-1.95). We retrospectively assessed the surgical outcomes of laminoplasty in 103 CSM cases. In addition to an older age and longer duration of disease, postoperative deteriorations in cervical kyphosis during neck flexion had a negative impact on outcomes.

A case of cervical spondylotic myelopathy being triggered by heat stroke

A case of cervical spondylotic myelopathy being triggered by heat stroke

Comparison of anterior and posterior surgical approaches in multi-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy

Background: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is one of the most common dysfunctions of spinal cord which occurs due to degenerative changes in cervical spine disc and facet joints. The management of multilevel spondylotic myelopathy is always controversial. The posterior approaches are always preferable in multiple level spondylosis. But according to newer studies, anterior approaches have similar results. Aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of posterior and anterior approaches in multilevel cervical myelopathy.Methods: This study includes all patients with multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy who have undergone decompression surgery with fusion. Detailed preoperative and post-operative assessment was done according to modified Japanese Orthopedic Association scoring system.Results: Eighty eight patients of CSM surgical cases were selected for this study and 29 cases of multi-level CSM were observed. And they were randomly selected for anterior and posterior approaches. Sixteen cases anterior approach was done either ACDF or Corpectomy with fusion. Mean age of study was 51.63 years with 64 males and 24 females. The spinal cord level at which most surgeries did was C5/6, 62 cases. While at level C4/5, it was 49 and at level C3/4 and C6/7, it was 35 and 36 respectively.Conclusions: Both anterior approach and posterior approaches were associated with betterment in postoperative neurological function for multilevel CSM. And there is no significant advantage in doing anterior approach in multilevel CSM.

A Clinicoradiological Assessment following Surgical Intervention in Patients of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: An Institutional Experience

Abstract Introduction To critically analyze the functional and radiological improvement in patients of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) who underwent surgical decompression by an anterior or posterior approach. Materials and Methods A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary-level Armed Forces Hospital from June 2015 to December 2019. Preoperative assessment included a thorough clinical examination and functional and radiological assessment. The surgical decompression was done by an anterior or a posterior approach with instrumented fusion. Anterior approach was taken for single or two-level involvement and posterior approach for three or more cervical levels. The pre and postoperative neurological outcome was assessed by Nurick and modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score along with measurement of canal diameter and cross-sectional area. Results A total of 120 patients of CSM who underwent surgical decompression were analyzed. Both the groups were comparable and had male predominance. A total of 59 patients underwent surgical decompression by an anterior approach and the remaining 61 patients by the posterior approach. Out of the 59 patients operated by the anterior approach, 30 (50.85%) underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF); remaining 29 (49.15%) underwent anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF). In the posterior group (n = 61), 26 (42.6%) patients underwent laminoplasty and the remaining 35 (57.4%) underwent laminectomy with or without instrument fusion. Sixteen patients out of these underwent lateral mass fixation and the remaining 19 underwent laminectomy. There was functional improvement (mJOA and Nurick grade) and radiological improvement in both subgroups, which were statistically significant (p &lt; 0.0001). Conclusion A prompt surgical intervention in moderate-to-severe cases of CSM either by the anterior or the posterior approach is essential for good outcome.

Clinical efficacy of posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy for single level cervical spondylopathy with intraspinal ossification

To evaluate the effectiveness and security of posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PPECD) in the treatment of single level cervical spondylopathy with intraspinal ossification. Twenty three patients with single level cervical spondylopathy with intraspinal ossification were treated by posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy between August 2017 and July 2019. There were 16 males and 7 females, aged from 29 to 74 years old with an average of (50±13) years.The disease duration were 3 to 120 months with a median of 6 months. There were 9 cases of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy, 6 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and 8 cases of mixed cervical spondylopathy. According to the characteristics of ossification, 17 cases were osteophytes on the posterior edge of the vertebral body;3 cases were protrusion ossification;3 cases were posterior longitudinal ligament ossification. According to the position of ossification in spinal canal, 14 cases were medial and lateral type, 5 cases were central type, and 4 cases were mixed type. Posterior percutaneous cervical endoscopic cervical discectomy in patients performed by the same surgeon. Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and visual analogue scale(VAS) were compared separately before and after operation. At 3 months after operation, clinical effect was assessed according to modified Macnab standard. All operations were successful. The operative time was 30 to 155 (69.1±27.2) min. The bedridden time was 2 to 3(3.0±0.9) h, length of postoperative hospitalization was 2 to 7(4.1± 1.5) d. Three dimensional CT reconstruction of the cervical spine at 3 days after operation showed that ossified tissue of 13 cases were completely removed, and 10 cases were left after operation, and the residual was located at the posterior edge and/or center of the upper vertebral body. VAS score at discharge from hospital was significantly lower than that before operation (t=9.35, P<0.001), and 21 cases had a score of 0 to 3. Postoperative JOA score was significantly higher (t=7.29, P<0.001). At 3 months after operation, according to modified Macnab standard to evaluate clinical effect, 18 cases got exellent results, 4 good and 1 fair, with an excellent and good rate of 95.6%(22/23). For an experienced surgeon, percutaneous posterior cervical endoscopic discectomy is safe and reliable in treating single level cervical spondylopathy with intraspinal ossification, and can obtain good clinical results.

A long-term follow-up study on the occurrence of heterotopic ossification after artificial cervical disc replacement with Discover disc

Objective: To analyze the incidence of heterotopic ossification after artificial cervical disc replacement with Discover disc, and to explore the effect of heterotopic ossification on postoperative radiological and clinical efficacy. Methods: From January 2010 to January 2015, 45 patients with cervical spondylosis underwent single-level artificial cervical disc replacement in Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, including 29 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, 11 cases of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy and 5 cases of mixed cervical spondylosis. At the last follow-up, Mehren grading method was used for classification of heterotopic ossification, among which, grade 0-Ⅱ was defined as low grade ossification group, and 26 patients (16 male, 10 female) were enrolled in this group; grade Ⅲ-Ⅳ was defined as high grade ossification group, and 19 patients (12 males, 7 females) were included in this group. C(2-7) Cobb angle, cervical total range of motion and range of motion at index level were used to evaluate the radiological outcomes of the two groups. Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, neck disability index (NDI) score and visual analogue scale (VAS) were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes of the two groups. The adjacent segment intervertebral disc height and range of motion were used to evaluate the effects of heterotopic ossification on adjacent segment. Results: All patients were followed up regularly for (98±18) months. There were no statistical differences between the two groups regarding to demographic data (all P>0.05). There was no significant differences in C(2-7) Cobb angle and total range of motion between the two groups at the last follow-up (all P>0.05), but range of motion at index level in the group with low grades was significantly higher than that in the group with high grades (7.8°±6.2° vs 2.6°±1.2°, t=3.60, P<0.05). There was no significant differences in JOA score, recovery rate and NDI score between the two groups (all P>0.05). There was no significant differences in the adjacent segment intervertebral disc height before operation and at the last follow-up (both P>0.05). There was no significant differences in range of motion at adjacent segment before operation (P>0.05), while range of motion at adjacent segment in the group with low grades was significantly lower than that in the group with high grades (9.5°±1.1° vs 10.6°±1.8° and 9.4°±1.4° vs 10.5°±1.7°, repectively, t=2.54, 2.31, both P<0.05). Conclusions: Heterotopic ossification does not affect the clinical outcomes, cervical curvature and cervical total range of motion after artificial cervical disc replacement with Discover disc. However, the higher grade of heterotopic ossification, the lower range of motion at index level and the higher range of motion at adjacent segment.

Outcome of Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Introduction: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a common procedure for a patient with progressive spinal cord compression and severe neurological deterioration causing major disability. Surgery in anterior approach involves removal of osteophyte and disc materials for decompression of spinal cord with addition to the interposition of autogenous tricortical bone graft and stabilization by plate and screw.&#x0D; Objectives: To assess the clinical outcome, complications of anterior cervical decompression and fusion for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was carried out in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka from January 2015 to May 2017. Total of 24 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy was enrolled as a study sample. All were treated by an anterior cervical discectomy, fusion and stabilization by plate and screw. All patients were clinically and radiographically evaluated before and after surgery.&#x0D; Results: In the majority (62.5%) patients, the level of involvement was in C5/C6 and 92.8% had a satisfactory outcome. In 4.1% of cases, early complication like superficial wound infection was noted. Late complications were persistence of pain, numbness present in 7.2% cases. The fusion rate was 100% in this series.&#x0D; Conclusion: Anterior cervical decompression and fusion for cervical spondylotic myelopathy is a safe and effective procedure. It is associated with the highest fusion, least complications and relatively lower cost.&#x0D; Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.14 (2) 2018: 127-129

Incidence of Unrecognized Incidental Durotomy during Surgery for Malignant Spinal Tumor.

Introduction Cerebral spinal fluid leak from durotomy is a well-known risk with spinal surgeries. The aim of this study is to identify the incidence of unrecognized incidental durotomy during posterior surgery for spinal metastases and its risk factors. Methods Participants comprised 75 patients who underwent posterior spine surgery for spinal metastases between January 2012 and December 2016. Cases with apparent durotomy noticed intraoperatively were excluded. Unrecognized durotomy was diagnosed as the presence of wide subcutaneous fluid retention on magnetic resonance imaging at least 3 months postoperatively. For comparison, 50 patients who underwent cervical laminoplasty due to cervical spondylotic myelopathy were examined using the same method. We also examined correlations between occurrence of durotomy and patient characteristics such as age, type of tumor, location of tumor (ventral or dorsal), extent of tumor, and history of radiotherapy before surgery. Results Unrecognized durotomy occurred in 21 cases of spinal metastasis (26.7%) and in 1 case of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (2%), representing a significant difference between groups. Age, type of tumor, location of tumor, extent of tumor, and history of radiotherapy before surgery did not correlate significantly with occurrence of durotomy. No local trouble was observed in durotomy cases, except in one case with subcutaneous local infection. Conclusions The incidence of unrecognized incidental durotomy is significantly higher during surgery for spinal metastases than that during surgery for degenerative disease.

Value of Surgery and Nonsurgical Approaches for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: WFNS Spine Committee Recommendations.

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a common cause of adult spinal cord dysfunction. Although the therapeutic options for moderate to severe CSM patients have been established well, the existing guidelines for therapeutic decisions in mild cases of CSM are unclear. We present a review of literature on conservative treatment and surgery for CSM and suggest general recommendations applicable in various clinical presentations and in different geographic locations across the globe, with due considerations to available resources and locally prevalent practices.

Observation of stand-alone MC+polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) Cage in anterior cervical double-level fusion for more than 2 years follow-up

To investigate the effectiveness of stand-alone MC+polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) Cage (single blade type) in anterior cervical double-level fusion for more than 2 years follow-up. A clinical data of 30 patients who were treated with anterior cervical fusion surgery with stand-alone MC+PEEK Cage (single blade type) between January 2013 and December 2016 and followed up for more than 2 years, was retrospectively analyzed. There were 16 males and 14 females, aged from 34 to 72 years with an average of 52.2 years. There were 16 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, 8 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and 6 cases of traumatic cervical disc herniation. The continuous double segments were C 4, 5, C 5, 6 in 12 cases and C 5, 6, C 6, 7 in 18 cases; and the disease duration ranged from3 days to 24 months (mean, 12 months). Postoperative neck hematoma and wound healing were observed; dysphagia was assessed by Bazaz system; and bone fusion was assessed by Suk method. Before operation, at 1 week after operation, and at last follow-up, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score was used to evaluate the neurological recovery; the cervical X-ray film was performed to record the cervical curvature (C 2-C 7 Cobb angle), the height of the intervertebral space of the fusion segment, and to judge the occurrence of the fusion Cage subsidence. No complication such as neck hematoma, incision infection, or esophageal fistula was found, primary healing of incisions was obtained in all cases. All patients were followed up 24-72 months (mean, 46 months). Neurological symptoms such as limb numbness and pain gradually disappeared after operation; during the follow-up period, the cervical curvature could be effectively maintained; dysphagia and internal fixation related complications such as displacement of Cages were not found. All patients obtained bony fusion from 3 to 8 months with an average time of 4.3 months. Compared with preoperative ones, the JOA score, intervertebral space height, and Cobb angle of cervical spine were significantly improved at 1 week after operation and at last follow-up ( P<0.05), but there was no significant difference between 1 week after operation and last follow-up ( P>0.05). The application of stand-alone MC+PEEK Cage (single card type) in anterior cervical fusion can provide early cervical stability, effectively maintain the physiological curvature of cervical spine and the height of fusion intervertebral space.

Clinical Study on 2 Cases of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Treated by Korean Traditional Medicine

Clinical Study on 2 Cases of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Treated by Korean Traditional Medicine

Correlation analysis between C 7 slope and cervical sagittal parameters in short segment anterior cervical discectomy with fusion

To elucidate the relationship between preoperative C 7 slope (C 7S) and sagittal parameters in anterior cervical discectomy with fusion (ACDF) by imaging. A retrospective analysis of 54 patients (24 males and 30 females) with ACDF for cervical spondylosis between January 2012 and January 2017 was performed. The age ranged from 23 to 71 years (mean, 46.6 years). There were 29 cases of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy and 25 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy. The disease duration ranged from 3 to 48 months, with an average of 16.8 months. In the 55 patients, 44 were single-segment ACDF and 10 were double-segment ACDF. Sagittal parameters of cervical spine were measured on cervical X-ray films before operation and at last follow-up, including C 2-7 Cobb angle, C 2-7 sagittal vertical axis (C 2-7 SVA), C 7S, and segment Cobb angle (SCobb), and the changes of C 2-7 Cobb angle (the difference between the last follow-up and the preoperative angle) were calculated. Pearson correlation was used to analyze the correlation between the parameters before operation and at last follow-up. According to the preoperative median value of C 7S (15°), the patients were divided into group A (C 7S<15°) and group B (C 7S≥15°). The sagittal parameters before and after operation were compared between the two groups. All the 54 patients were followed up 6-45 months (mean, 15.5 months). At last follow-up, C 7S, C 2-7 Cobb angle, C 2-7 SVA, and SCobb angle were significantly improved when compared with preoperative values ( P<0.05). Correlation analysis showed that the preoperative C 7S and SCobb angles were significantly correlated with C 2-7 Cobb angle and C 2-7 SVA ( P<0.05), but there was no significant correlation between C 7S and SCobb angle ( r=0.049, P=0.724). There was a significant correlation between C 7S, C 2-7 Cobb angle, and SCobb angle at last follow-up ( P<0.05), but there was no significant correlation between C 7S and SCobb angles and C 2-7 SVA ( P>0.05). According to the median value of preoperative C 7S, 28 patients in group A had C 7S of (11.82±3.60)°, while 26 patients in group B had C 7S of (20.77±4.09)°. There was no significant difference in gender and age between the two groups ( P>0.05). The preoperative C 2-7 Cobb angle and C 2-7 SVA in group A were significantly lower than those in group B ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference between preoperative SCobb angle and group B ( t=0.234, P=0.816). There were no significant differences in C 2-7 Cobb angle, C 2-7 SVA, and SCobb angle between group A and group B at last follow-up ( P>0.05). However, the change of C 2-7 Cobb angle in group A was significantly higher than that in group B ( t=2.321, P=0.024). Preoperative C 7S≥15° group has more physiological lordosis before operation, but its postoperative cervical curvature changes less, while ACDF is more conducive to correct the preoperative C 7S<15 ° cervical curvature.

Effectiveness evaluation of Prodisc-C prosthesis for more than 10 years follow-up after total cervical disc replacement

To evaluate long-term radiographic and clinical effectiveness of total cervical disc replacement (TDR) with Prodisc-C prosthesis at a minimum of 10 years follow-up. The clinical data of 118 patients with cervical disc degeneration disease (CDDD) treated with TDR by using Prodisc-C prosthesis between December 2005 and April 2008 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 66 males and 52 females, with the age of 25-62 years (mean, 46.8 years). There were 38 cases of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy, 28 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and 52 cases of mixed cervical spondylotic myelopathy. The operative segments were C 3-7, including 90 cases of single segment, 20 cases of continuous double segments, and 8 cases of continuous three segments. A total of 154 Prodisc-C prostheses were used during the operation. The clinical effectiveness was evaluated by pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score, neck disability index (NDI), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, and Odom grade before and after operation. Imaging evaluation indicators included range of motion (ROM), sagittal lordosis angle, intervertebral disc height (IDH), and prosthesis displacement, subsidence, loosening, locking, and heterotopic ossification (HO), adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), and other complications. Patients were grouped according to whether HO or ASD occurred or not, the ROM of surgical segment was compared. All patients were followed up 121-150 months (mean, 135.8 months). No revision operation was performed during the follow-up period. The VAS, NDI, JOA scores and Odom grades were significantly improved at 1 week after operation and last follow-up when compared with preoperative ones ( P<0.05); VAS and NDI scores were further improved at last follow-up than those at 1 week after operation ( P<0.05); there was no significant difference in JOA scores and improvement rates between at 1 week after operation and at last follow-up ( P>0.05). The ROM of the whole cervical spine and the operative segment decreased at 1 week and 10 years after operation when compared with preoperative ones ( P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in the other time points ( P>0.05); there was no significant difference in the ROM between the upper adjacent segment (UAS) and the lower adjacent segment (LAS) at each time point after operation ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference in sagittal lordosis angle of cervical spine before and after operation ( P>0.05); the sagittal lordosis angle of operative segment increased significantly at 1 week, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after operation ( P<0.05). The IDH of operative segment was significantly improved at each time point after operation ( P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in IDH between UAS and LAS at each time point after operation ( P>0.05). No prosthesis displacement, subsidence, or loosening occurred at each time point after operation. There was no significant difference of the prosthetic displacement and subsidence distance between all time points after 6 months after operation ( P>0.05). At last follow-up, the incidence of prosthetic locking/fusion was 10.4%, showing no significant difference when compared with 6 months (1.9%) ( P<0.05). The incidence of upper ASD and lower ASD was 1.3% and 2.6% respectively at 1 week after operation. The incidence of upper ASD and lower ASD increased gradually with time prolonging, and there were significant differences between different time points ( P<0.05). The ROM of operative segment in ASD group was lower than that in non-ASD group at each time point after operation, but there was no significant difference ( P>0.05). HO appeared in 58.4% of the segments at 6 months after operation, and the incidence of HO increased significantly with time, which was significantly different from that at 6 months after operation ( P<0.05). The ROM of operative segments in HO group was significantly lower than that in non-HO group at 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, and 10 years after operation ( P<0.05). TDR has little effect on adjacent segments, although there are some imaging complications, it has no significant effect on the improvement of overall clinical effectiveness. Prodisc-C prosthesis can provide long-term, safe, and definite clinical effectiveness in the treatment of CDDD.

Quantitative study of the effect of atlas posterior arch resection on cervical posterior decompression

Objective To quantitatively compare the effect of preservation or removal of atlas posterior arch on cervical posterior decompression, so as to provide a basis for reasonable selection of upper cervical spine decompression range and determination of surgical indications for atlas posterior arch resection. Methods The data of 45 patients with posterior decompression of upper cervical spine were retrospectively analyzed. According to the decompression range, the patients were divided into C2-C7 group and C1-C7 group. There were 25 cases in the C2-C7 group, 19 males and 6 females, with an average age of 56.3 years (40-71 years), 4 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy and 21 cases of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of cervical spine. All of the 25 patients underwent open-door laminoplasty: 20 cases with hinge side anchoring procedure and 5 cases with preservation of the unilateral posterior muscular-ligament complex procedure (titanium cable procedure). There were 20 cases in C1-C7 group, 12 males and 8 females, with an average age of 58.4 years (44-75 years). All of the 20 cases underwent atlas posterior arch resection as well as C2-C7 open-door laminoplasty, including anchoring procedure in 1 case, titanium miniplate procedure in 4 cases, and titanium cable procedure in 15 cases. Standardized vertebral-cord distance (SVCD) at each level from atlas to level C6,7 was measured on T2-weighted images of MR on the mid-sagittal plane in the neutral position performed 3-12 months postoperatively at each individual level. As the main outcomes, the SVCD values obtained at the same level of the two groups were compared between the two groups. Shapiro-Wilk normality test was performed on the SVCD values at C1,2 and C2 levels of two groups. The area under the normal distribution curve of SVCDs was used to calculate the corresponding residual compression rate with different magnitude of compression mass to further discover the difference of the decompression effect between the two groups. Results The SVCD obtained at the level of the anterior arch of atlas (C1), the junction of odontoid process and axis (C1,2) and the middle part of axis body (C2) in the C2-C7 group was 9.91±1.34 mm, 8.35±1.27 mm, and 8.22 ±1.43 mm, respectively. The SVCD at the same levels was 11.02±1.60 mm, 9.72±1.24 mm, and 9.12±1.11 mm, respectively. SVCDs differed significantly in the above range between the two groups. However, from level C2,3 to C6,7, there was no significant difference in SVCDs between the two groups. The JOA score of group C2-C7 was 11.8±2.7 preoperatively and increased significantly to 14.7±1.8 at 12 months postoperatively(t=-7.006, P<0.001) with a recovery rate of 57.0%±32.2%. The JOA score of group C1-C7 was 11.7±2.8 preoperatively and increased significantly to 14.2±2.3 at 12 months postoperatively(t=-6.177, P<0.001) with a recovery rate of 51.9%±32.1%. Conclusion Atlas posterior arch resection can significantly increase the decompression effect of posterior cervical surgery from the anterior arch of atlas to the middle part of axis body, but it would not increase the decompression effect at level C2,3 or below. When the magnitude of the ventral compression factor exceeds the decompression limit (8.5 mm) available with C2-C7 decompression in the range from atlas to the middle of the axis body, extending the decompression range by atlas posterior arch resection is an effective means to achieve adequate decompression. Key words: Cervical atlas; Axis; Ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament; Spinal cord compression; Decompression, surgical

Analysis of correlative factors of spinal cord posterior displacement after single door laminoplasty

To observe the open angle (OA), cervical curvature angle (CA), preoperative spinal cord compression rate(PSCR), postoperative spinal cord shift (PSCS) in patients with chronic compressive cervical myelopathy undergoing C3-7 single open laminoplasty, and to explore the possible mechanism and influencing factors of postoperative average spinal cord drift, so as to provide objective basis for predicting PSCS. From May 2012 to July 2016, 32 patients with multi-segmental chronic compressive cervical myelopathy who underwent single-door laminoplasty in our department were analyzed retrospectively, including 14 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, 8 cases of developmental cervical spinal stenosis with cervical myelopathy, and 10 cases of ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament. The OA of cervical spine was measured on CT, the CA was measured on X-ray, the PSCR and PSCS were measured on MRI. The patients were divided into two groups according to PSCS(group A>=2.5 mm, group B<2.5 mm). In the group A, there were 11 males and 6 females, with an average age of (56.58±9.80) years old, a mean course of the disease of (23.52±7.86) months; while in group B, there were 6 males and 9 females, with an average age of (58.46±12.53) years old, a mean course of disease of (21.13±7.75) months. The correlation analysis between PSCS and OA, CA and PSCR was performed, and multiple linear analysis of correlated parameters was carried out. The OA in group A was (40.47±9.45) °, in group B was (27.84±5.67) °. The OA in group A was higher than that in group B (P<0.01), and OA was moderately correlated with PSCS (r=0.794, P=0.000). The CA was(11.56± 4.99) ° in group A and(6.64±3.28) ° in group B . The CA in group A was higher than that in group B (P<0.01), and CA was moderately correlated with PSCS (r=0.632, P=0.000). The PSCR was (27.70±2.92) % in group A , was (24.59±2.80) % in group B . The PSCR in group A was higher than that in group B(P<0.01), PSCR was moderately correlated with PSCS(r=0.667, P=0.000). The CA dependent variable was kicked out(P>0.1), and the partial regression coefficients of OA and PSCR were 0.113 and 0.059 respectively. PSCS is the result of OA, CA and PSCR, among which PSCR has the most important influence, OA is the second, CA is the least. PSCS can be predicted by 0.059×OA+0.113×PSCR-2.266 equation, which provides a theoretical basis for preoperative evaluation of spinal cord decompression after surgery.

Multilevel critical stenosis with minimal functional deficits: a case of cervical spondylotic myelopathy

We present a case of a previously asymptomatic and highly functional individual whose critical degenerative stenosis was exacerbated by recent trauma (motor vehicle accident), resulting in cervical spondylotic myelopathy. A 57-year-old African-American man with no significant past medical history presented to the Orthopaedic Surgery outpatient clinic with mild neck discomfort, stiffness, and bilateral hand numbness 4 days after being involved in a motor vehicle accident. He ambulated without assistive devices and displayed a tandem gait pattern with normal cadence. He was minimally tender to palpation at the posterior cervical midline and paraspinal musculature with motor and sensory function intact bilaterally. Reflexes were hypoactive at C5, C6, C7, L4, and S1 bilaterally with positive Babinski signs bilaterally. Imaging revealed degenerative changes, spinal stenosis, and cord compression. The patient eventually underwent posterior cervical decompression and fusion from the C3 to the C6 level, with the only reported complication being transient loss of somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) signals intra-operatively. In the postoperative period, the patient complained of stiffness in his left shoulder, elbow, and hand, as well as left hand palmar numbness and an inability to make a full fist. His complaints were managed with medication and physical therapy. This case report highlights the point that stenosis that occurs slowly over time is often well compensated, and patients are commonly asymptomatic at first glance. Often times, acute events tip patients from being asymptomatic to symptomatic, generally warranting invasive intervention to prevent further insults from causing permanent damage.