Changes In Radiographic Parameters Research Articles

Midterm Outcomes of Multimodal Approach to Treating Severe Scoliosis in Patients With Osteogenesis Imperfecta.

The surgical management of severe scoliosis in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is challenging because of curve rigidity, small stature, and inherent bone fragility. This study evaluated the midterm outcomes of our multimodal approach to address these issues, integrating perioperative bisphosphonate therapy, preoperative/intraoperative traction, various osteotomies, segmental pedicle screw instrumentation with cement augmentation, and bone morphogenetic protein-2 application. A single-center retrospective review of 30 patients (average age 14.1 ± 2.2 years; 18 were female) diagnosed with OI and scoliosis was conducted. These patients underwent posterior spinal fusion between 2008 and 2020 and completed a minimum follow-up of 2 years. We measured radiographic parameters at each visit and reviewed the incidence of complications. A mixed-effects model was used to evaluate changes in radiographic parameters from preoperative measurements to the first and latest follow-ups. The patient cohort consisted of 2 individuals with type I OI, 20 with type III, 6 with type IV, and 2 with other types (types V and VIII). Surgical intervention led to a notable improvement in the major curve magnitude from 76° to 36°, with no notable correction loss. In addition, the minor curve, apical vertical translation, lowest instrumented vertebra tilt, and pelvic obliquity were also improved. In the sagittal plane, thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis remained unchanged while thoracolumbar kyphosis markedly improved. Two patients experienced proximal junctional kyphosis with screw pullout, one of whom required revision surgery. One patient developed a superficial infection that was successfully treated with oral antibiotics. No instances of neurologic deficits or cement extravasation were observed. This study demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of our multimodal approach to treating scoliosis in patients with OI, achieving a 53% major curve correction with minimal complications over 2-year follow-up. These findings provide notable insights into managing scoliosis in this population. Level IV (case series).

Potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement in direct pulp capping of carious, immature permanent molars: An 18-month randomised controlled trail

AimThe current study aimed to compare the clinical and radiographic success of potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement (KNO3/PCA) compared to mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in direct pulp capping (DPC) of carious, immature permanent molars over an 18-month follow-up. Materials and methodsA two-armed parallel randomised trial included one hundred children with 104 M have been included and assigned equally. The success rate was evaluated clinically and radiographically. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare the clinical and radiographic success rates. The percentage change in radiographic parameters was tested using an independent sample t-test. The effect of time on the mean values of radiographic parameters was tested using the general linear model (GLM). A significant level was set at 5%. ResultsThe overall success rates after 18 months of follow-up for KNO3/PCA and MTA were 90.4% and 92.3%, respectively (p > 0.05). Similarly, root maturation indicators showed no significant difference between the two groups over the follow-up (p > 0.05). ConclusionWith comparable clinical and radiographic results to MTA, KNO3/PCA is an effective treatment option in the DPC of carious, immature permanent teeth.

Impact of preoperative age-adjusted sagittal imbalance on radiographic and clinical outcomes following 1-level minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Prior studies investigating the use of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) for treatment of degenerative lumbar conditions and concomitant sagittal deformity have not stratified patients by preoperative pelvic incidence (PI)-lumbar lordosis (LL) mismatch, which is the earliest parameter to deteriorate in mild sagittal deformity. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the impact of preoperative PI-LL mismatch on clinical outcomes and sagittal balance restoration among patients undergoing MI-TLIF for degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS). Consecutive adult patients undergoing primary 1-level MI-TLIF between April 2017 and April 2022 for DS with ≥ 6 months radiographic follow-up were included. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) included the Oswestry Disability Index, visual analog scale (VAS), 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System at preoperative, early postoperative (< 6 months), and late postoperative (≥ 6 months) time points. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for PROMs was also evaluated. Radiographic parameters included PI, LL, pelvic tilt (PT), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Patients were categorized into balanced and unbalanced groups based on preoperative PI-LL mismatch according to age-adjusted alignment goals. Changes in radiographic parameters and PROMs were evaluated. Eighty patients were included (L4-5 82.5%, grade I spondylolisthesis 82.5%, unbalanced 58.8%). Mean clinical and radiographic follow-up were 17.0 and 8.3 months, respectively. The average preoperative PI-LL was 18.8° in the unbalanced group and -3.3° in the balanced group. Patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch had significantly worse preoperative PT (26.2° vs 16.4°, p < 0.001) and SVA (53.2 vs 9.0 mm, p = 0.001) compared with balanced patients. Patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch also showed significantly worse PI-LL (16.0° vs 0.54°, p < 0.001), PT (25.9° vs 18.7°, p < 0.001), and SVA (49.4 vs 22.8 mm, p = 0.013) at long-term follow-up. No significant radiographic improvement was observed among unbalanced patients. All patients demonstrated significant improvements in all PROMs (p < 0.05) except for SF-12 mental component score. Achievement of MCID for VAS back score was significantly greater among patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch (85.7% vs 65.5%, p = 0.045). Although 1-level MI-TLIF did not restore sagittal alignment in patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch, patients presenting with DS can expect significant improvement in PROMs following 1-level MI-TLIF regardless of preoperative alignment or extent of correction. Thus, attaining good clinical outcomes in patients with mild sagittal imbalance may not require addressing imbalance directly.

Changes in Selected Radiographic Parameters in Feet after Arthroplasty of First Metatarsophalangeal Joint (MTP-1) – Pilot Study

Background. Hallux rigidus is found in more than 2% of individuals aged 50 and above. As this condition progresses, mobility in the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP-1) joint decreases, leading practically to rigid fixation of the toe in the plantar flexion position, while pain and joint deformity caused by osteophytes intensify over time. Surgical approaches for hallux rigidus include joint arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, which is commonly employed. This study aimed to assess selected radiographic parameters of the foot before and after MTP-1 joint arthroplasty. Material and Methods. The study involved 15 patients (15 feet), comprising 11 women and 4 men, at an average age of 54.7 years (range: 43 to 70). All participants underwent arthroplasty of MTP-1 using the Tornier FGT endoprosthesis. Various radiologic parameters were examined, including the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, Horton’s index, Meary’s angle, Nikolaev’s angle, and hallux angle in a lateral view. Results. Radiological measurements were analysed using the R3.6.2 statistical package (R Core Team, 2019). After surgery, Horton’s index showed a significant increase, rising from 7.2 to 8. Additionally, the HVA-L angle increased from 11.26 to 14.4. Conclusion. Arthroplasty of MTP-1 produces significant changes in radiographic parameters of foot statics.

An alternative method for measuring patient’s sagittal balance parameters in sitting and standing positions

Introduction The understanding of the biomechanics of movements in the spinopelvic segment plays an important role in the successful treatment of patients with hip-spine syndrome. Analysis of the biomechanical processes occurring in the biokinematic chain of the spine–pelvis–hip during the transition from standing position to sitting position allows us to conclude that the acetabular axis of rotation of the pelvis in space is not the only one. Classical methods for measuring PI, PT, overhang S1 are applicable for patients in a standing position and use the hip joint as a starting point, since it is the point of rotation of the pelvis in space in a standing position. Previously, using mathematical modeling, we described spatial changes in the pelvis during a given change in the body position and showed the presence of a second point of pelvis rotation in space, which appears in a sitting position. We assumed that in a sitting position, it is necessary to use other methods for calculating indicators of spinopelvic relationships for their determination.Purpose of the study was to evaluate the parameters of patients’ sagittal balance using the proposed alternative method in standing and sitting positions.Materials and methods Medical documentation and the results of X-ray examination of 20 patients with unilateral idiopathic coxarthrosis who underwent total hip replacement surgery were analyzed. The radiographic parameters were calculated: PI, PT, overhang S1 in standing and sitting positions, anterior inclination of the acetabular component; parameters PI ischial, PT ischial, deviation of the ischial tuberosities in standing and sitting positions were proposed and calculated.Results The study shows that there is no statistical difference in the values of the angles PI standard for a standing position and PI ischial for a sitting position. It corresponds to objective data and is generally accepted. Examples of changes in radiographic parameters of the sacral slope and the deviation of the ischial tuberosities were shown reflecting the rotation of the pelvis in space through the second, ischial axis, that confirm the biaxial concept of pelvic rotation.Discussion The calculations demonstrated the possibility of using alternative indicators of spinopelvic relationships (PT, distance of overhang of the sacrum (overhang S1), deviation of the ischial tuberosities). They enabled assessment of the spatial transformation of the pelvis and the ability to predict the spatial position of the acetabulum, which is an important factor for successful treatment of patients with combined pathology of the hip joint and spine.Conclusion Our findings complement the biaxial concept of pelvic rotation. An alternative method for measuring sagittal balance parameters in a sitting position has been proposed. Further research is required to assess the practical significance of this method.

Surgical Technique and Preliminary Outcomes of Double-Level Osteotomy for Valgus Deformity.

Data are limited regarding the surgical technique or outcomes of double-level osteotomy (DLO) combining medial closing-wedge distal femoral osteotomy and medial closing-wedge high tibial osteotomy in patients with moderate-to-severe valgus deformity. To describe the surgical technique and assess the short-term outcomes and surgical accuracy of DLO in patients with a moderate or severe valgus deformity. It was hypothesized that this technique would result in good clinical outcomes with precise deformity correction. Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Eight patients (mean age, 44.2 ± 10.9 years) with a moderate or severe valgus knee treated with DLO (9 knees; mechanical tibiofemoral angle [mTFA], 10.3°± 3.5°) were included. The mean follow-up was 25.1 ± 11.1 months. Preoperative to postoperative changes in radiographic parameters (mTFA, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle, mechanical medial proximal tibial angle, joint line convergence angle) and clinical scores (Hospital for Special Surgery score, Oxford Knee Score, Lysholm score) were assessed. Surgical accuracy was calculated by subtracting the achieved postoperative correction from the preoperatively planned targeted correction. The mTFA changed significantly from 10.3°± 3.5° preoperatively to -1.8°± 3.4° postoperatively (P < .001); the mechanical lateral distal femoral angle and mechanical medial proximal tibial angle changed significantly by 5.1°± 2.7° and 5.9°± 2.2°, respectively (P < .001 for both); and the posterior distal femoral angle decreased significantly from 85.9°± 3.1° to 84.2°± 2.4° (P < .01). There was no significant difference between pre- and postoperative joint line convergence angles (3.3°± 2.3° to 2.6°± 2.1°). The accuracy of the correction was high: the mTFA achieved postoperatively differed from the mTFA planned preoperatively by a mean of 2.7°± 1.9° (range, 0.6°-6.6°). Significant pre- to postoperative improvement was seen for all outcome scores (Hospital for Special Surgery, from 67 ± 11 to 93 ± 4; Oxford Knee Score, from 29 ± 7 to 43 ± 3; Lysholm, from 41 ± 24 to 89 ± 8; P < .001 for all). High surgical accuracy was achieved, and patients who underwent varus DLO for valgus knees showed improved knee function at short-term follow-up. Varus DLO can be a surgical option to restore the optimal alignment and joint line obliquity in patients with moderate or severe valgus malalignment.

Comparison of Short-Arm Immobilization and Long-Arm Immobilization in Conservatively Managed Distal Radius Fractures: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review.

Distal radius fractures are often treated conservatively with immobilization. Immobilizing above the elbow limits forearm rotation, though recent literature has suggested the effects on radiographic or functional outcomes may be negligible. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to analyze the radiographic and functional outcome scores of distal radius fractures managed with short-arm (SA) immobilization and long-arm (LA) immobilization. An electronic systematic search was performed of the PubMed and EMBASE databases from inception to October 5, 2022. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients with acute distal radius fractures undergoing nonoperative treatment (involving application/maintenance of immobilization) comparing above-elbow versus below-elbow constructs were included. The outcomes of interest were changes in radiographic parameters (loss of volar tilt [VT], radial height [RH], and radial inclination [RI]), loss of reduction, requirement for surgery, and patient-reported functional outcomes (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, or Hand [DASH] or Quick DASH survey). The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 was used for study quality assessment. The effect size of the interventions was assessed using random effect models to calculate mean differences (MDs) for continuous variables and odds ratios (ORs) for categorical variables. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated for patient-reported functional outcome scores. Nine studies involving 983 cases were included, including 497 SA and 486 LA. No statistically significant differences were observed with regards to VT (P= 0.83), RH (P= 0.81), RI (P= 0.35), loss of reduction (P= 0.33), requirement for surgery (P= 0.33), or patient-reported functional outcomes (P= 0.10). There was no difference in radiographic outcomes, need for surgery, or functional scores among patients treated with SA and LA immobilization. Utilizing SA immobilization is a safe option for conservative management of distal radius fractures and the benefits of mitigating complications associated with LA immobilization may supersede the theoretical limited forearm rotational stability observed with SA immobilization. Further study is required to determine the optimal method of SA immobilization.

Radiographic predictors of reaching minimal clinically important difference following lumbar fusion surgery in patients with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis.

The present study aimed to (1) compare sagittal alignment between patients with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS) who reached or missed the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for clinical outcomes following lumbar fusion surgery (LFS) and (2) identify radiographic predictors associated with MCID achievement in DLS patients. A total of 91 single-level DLS patients who underwent LFS and had a minimum of 1-year follow-up were enrolled in this study. The assessed radiographic parameters included thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL), segmental lumbar lordosis (SLL), slip percentage, sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic incidence (PI), and sagittal vertical axis. Changes in radiographic parameters were determined by subtracting the preoperative value from the final follow-up measurement. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the visual analog scale (VAS) for both back and leg pain. MCID values were set at 10 points for ODI, 2.1 points for VAS back pain, and 2.8 points for VAS leg pain. Patients were assigned to the reached MCID (rMCID) and missed MCID (mMCID) groups based on the postoperative (post-op) recovery of clinical outcomes. At the last follow-up, 68.1% (62/91), 72.5% (66/91), and 76.9% (70/91) of patients reached MCID for ODI, VAS back pain, and VAS leg pain, respectively. Concerning ODI, the rMCID group exhibited higher post-op LL (47.93° vs. 42.95°, P = 0.044), higher post-op SLL (17.08° vs. 14.41°, P = 0.032), higher post-op SS (34.46° vs. 30.63°, P = 0.027), higher ∆LL (5.90° vs. 2.44°, P = 0.017), higher ∆SLL (4.63° vs. - 1.03°, P < 0.001), higher ∆SS (4.76° vs. 1.23°, P = 0.002), lower post-op PT/PI (36.95% vs. 42.01%, P = 0.049), lower ∆PT (- 3.71° vs. 1.05°, P < 0.001), lower ∆PT/PI (- 7.45% vs. 1.97%, P < 0.001), and lower ∆PI-LL (- 5.43° vs. - 3.71°, P = 0.011) than the mMCID group. Regarding VAS back pain, the rMCID group showed higher post-op SLL (17.06° vs. 14.05°, P = 0.021), higher post-op SS (34.34° vs. 30.33°, P = 0.027), higher ∆SLL (3.93° vs. - 0.09°, P < 0.001), and lower ∆PT (- 2.91° vs. - 0.30°, P = 0.039) than the mMCID group. For VAS leg pain, higher ∆SLL (3.55° vs. 0.41°, P = 0.003) was observed in the rMCID group than in the mMCID group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that higher ∆SLL, higher ∆SS, and higher post-op SS were independent predictors for the achievement of MCID in patients with DLS. DLS patients who reached MCID following LFS demonstrated improved post-op spinopelvic alignment. Higher ∆SLL, higher ∆SS, and higher post-op SS were the critical parameters associated with MCID achievement in patients with DLS.

Which head element is more effective for cement augmentation of TFNA? Helical blade versus lag screw

BackgroundEarly fixation and rehabilitation is the gold standard treatment for intertrochanteric femur fractures. Cement augmentation through perforated head elements has been developed to avoid postoperative complications such as cut-out or cut-through. The purpose of this study was to compare two head elements in terms of cement distribution using computed tomography (CT) and to examine their initial fixation and clinical outcomes.MethodsElderly patients who had intertrochanteric fractures were treated with a trochanteric fixation nail advanced (TFNA) helical blade (Blade group) or a TFNA lag screw (Screw group). In both groups, 4.2 mL of cement was injected under an image intensifier (1.8 mL of cement was directed cranially and 0.8 mL each caudally, anteriorly, and posteriorly). Patient demographics and clinical outcome were investigated post-operatively. Cement distribution from the center of the head element was evaluated with CT. Maximum penetration depth (MPD) were measured in the coronal and sagittal planes. On each axial plane, the cross-sectional areas in the cranial, caudal, anterior and posterior directions were calculated. The sum of cross-sectional areas (successive 36 slices) was defined as the volume of the head element.ResultsThe Blade group included 14 patients, and the Screw group included 15 patients. In the Blade group, MPD in the anterior and caudal direction was significantly greater than that in the posterior direction (p < 0.01). In the Screw group, volume in the cranial and posterior direction was significantly greater than that in the Blade group (p = 0.03). Subsequently, the total volume in the Screw group was significantly larger than that in the Blade group (p < 0.01). No significant correlation was detected between bone mineral density, T score, young adult mean, and total cement volume. Change in radiographic parameters and clinical outcome such as Parker score and visual analog scale were similar in both groups. No patients suffered from cut-out / cut through or non-union.ConclusionsThe position of cement distribution through the lag screw is different from that through the helical blade, and the total volume of the head element is significantly larger in the lag screw. Both groups had similarly effective results in terms of mechanical stability after surgery, postoperative pain and early phase of rehabilitation.Trial registrationCurrent Controlled Trials ISRCTN45341843, 24/12/2022, Retrospectively registered.

Utility of Expandable Interbody Cages in Open Transforaminal Interbody Fusions: A Comparison With Static Cages.

Background Expandable interbody cages, while popular in minimally invasive fusions due to their slim profile and increased ease of insertion, have not been widely explored in open surgery. The benefits of expandable cages may also extend to open fusions through their potential to achieve a greater restoration of lumbar lordosis while minimizing intraoperative complications. To highlight these benefits, we present a case series of adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients treated with an open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) using expandable cages and compare outcomes to those of patients treated with static cages from the literature. Methods A retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent a deformity correction procedure and TLIF with expandable interbody cages at Brigham and Women's Hospital between 2018 and 2022 was conducted. Patient demographics, complications, and pre- and postoperative radiographic parameters of spinopelvic alignment were collected. A literature search was completed to identify studies employing static cages. T-tests were performed to compare postoperative changes in radiographic parameters by cage type. Results Forty-five patients (mean age of 62.6 years) with an average of 2.1 cages placed met the inclusion criteria. Patients experienced five intraoperative complications and 23 neurologic deficits (from minor to major), while nine patients required a revision operation. Lumbar lordosis increased by 9.8° ± 14.5° (p < 0.0001), the sagittal vertical axis (SVA) decreased by 25.5 mm ± 56.7 mm (p = 0.0048), and pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis mismatch decreased by 13.3° ± 17.5° (p < 0.0001) with the use of expandable cages. Expandable cages yielded similar changes in lumbar lordosis to 15° and 8° cagesbut improved the lumbar lordosis generated from rectangular and 4° cages. When compared to static cages, expandable cages mildly reduced intraoperative complications. Conclusions Expandable interbody cages are an effective means of restoring spinopelvic alignment in ASD that have the potential to improve patient outcomes in open fusions compared to standard static cages. Especially when compared to rectangular and 4° static cages, expandable cages provide a clear benefit in the correction of lumbar lordosis. The impact of open spinal fusions with expandable cages on outcomes should continue to be explored in other cohorts.

Long-term Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes After Selective Thoracic Fusion for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis With Lenke 1C Curve.

Despite the promising results with selective thoracic fusion (STF) in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) of the Lenke 1C curve, postoperative coronal imbalance and progression of the unfused lumbar curve have been concerns in long-term follow-up. In this study, we aimed to investigate the radiographic and clinical outcomes after STF for AIS with Lenke 1C curve with long-term follow-up. A total of 30 patients with AIS with Lenke 1C curves who underwent STF between 2005 and 2017 were included. Minimum follow-up duration was 5 years. Time-dependent changes in radiographic parameters were investigated preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at the last follow-up. In addition, radiographic adverse events such as coronal decompensation (CD), lumbar decompensation (LD), distal adding-on (DA) phenomenon, and trunk shift were evaluated at the last follow-up. The Scoliosis Research Society-22 score was used for clinical outcome evaluation. The mean age at the time of surgery was 13.8 years. The mean follow-up duration was 6.7 ± 0.8 years. The main thoracic curve significantly improved from 57 degrees to 23 degrees (60% correction), and the thoracolumbar/lumbar curve significantly improved from 47 degrees to 28 degrees (41% correction). Coronal balance was 15 mm after surgery but significantly improved to 10 mm at the last follow-up ( P = 0.033). At the final follow-up, 11 patients (37%) sustained at least one of the radiographic adverse events: CD in 5 patients (17%), LD in 3 (10%), DA in 4 (13%), and trunk shift in 3 (10.%). However, there were no cases requiring revision surgery. In addition, there were no significant differences in any items or total Scoliosis Research Society-22 score between the patients with and without radiographic adverse events. STF in Lenke 1C curves showed an acceptable risk of adverse radiographic events such as CD, LD, DA, and trunk shift in long-term follow-up. We suggest that STF without fusion to the thoracolumbar/lumbar curve would be sufficient in treating AIS with Lenke 1C curve. Level III.

Focusing on the amount of immediate changes in spinopelvic radiographic parameters to predict the amount of mid-term improvement of quality of life in adult degenerative scoliosis patients with surgery

IntroductionSurgery is still an effective treatment option for adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS), but how to predict patients’ significant amount of the improvement in quality of life remains unclear. The previous studies included an inhomogeneous population. This study aimed to report the results about concentrating on the amount of immediate changes in spinopelvic radiographic parameters to predict the amount of mid-term improvement in quality of life in ADS patients.Materials and methodsPre-operative and immediately post-operative radiographic parameters included Cobb angle, coronal vertical axis (CVA), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), lumbar lordosis (LL), thoracic kyphosis (TK), pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), pelvic incidence (PI) and LL/PI matching (PI–LL). Quality of life scores were evaluated pre-operatively and at the final follow-up using Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS). The amount of immediate changes in spinopelvic radiographic parameters (Δ) and the amount of mid-term improvement in quality of life (Δ) were defined, respectively.ResultsPatients showed significant change in radiographic parameters, ODI and VAS pre- and post-surgery, except CVA and PI. Univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between ΔTK, ΔLL, ΔCVA and the amount of mid-term improvement in quality of life, but multivariate analysis did not get a significant result. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that ΔSVA was still a significant predictor of ΔVAS and ΔODI. The changes in the other radiographic parameters were not significant. The equations were developed by linear regression: ΔODI = 0.162 × ΔSVA − 21.592, ΔVAS = 0.034 × ΔSVA − 2.828. In the ROC curve for ΔSVA in the detection of a strong ΔODI or ΔVAS, the cut-off value of ΔSVA was − 19.855 mm and − 15.405 mm, respectively.ConclusionsThis study shows that ΔSVA can predict the amount of mid-term improvement in quality of life in ADS patients. The changes in the other radiographic parameters were not significant. Two equations were yielded to estimate ΔODI and ΔVAS. ΔSVA has respective cut-off value to predict ΔODI and ΔVAS.

Implication of Changes in the Imaging Measurements after Mechanically Aligned Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Imaging measurements allow assessment of the mechanical alignment before and after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The changes in radiographic parameters in each period of time within 1 year after TKA has been poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to examine the timing and causes of imaging changes in lower extremity force lines after total knee arthroplasty with mechanical alignment. A total of 93 mechanically-aligned TKA were radiographically examined before, 3 days, 3 months, and 1 year after surgery. Radiographic parameters included hip-knee angle (HKA), lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), knee joint line orientation (KJLO), ankle joint line orientation (AJLO), the knee joint line relative to ankle joint line angle (KJLTA) and midpoints of the ankle distance (MAD). Paired t-test were used to analyze the changes of these imaging parameters, By establishing a simple tibial model, the time points of changes in the imaging parameters after TKA was determined, with an attempt to understand the post-TKA changes in these imaging parameters. Statistically significant differences were found between the preoperative data and the data measured 3 days after surgery in HKA, LDFA, MPTA, MAD, KJLTA, AJLO (P < 0.05) while KJLO exhibited no significant difference (P=0.089). There existed significant differences between the data measured 3 days and the measurements taken 3 months after operation in HKA, MPTA, KJLTA, KJLO, AJLO (P < 0.05), whereas LDFA and MAD showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). Significant differences were revealed between the data measured 3 months and those collected 1year after surgery in LDFA, MPTA, AJLO, KJLTA (P < 0.05) but HKA, KJLO, AJLO showed no significant differences (P > 0.05). The tibial model was made to look into the changes in postoperative imaging parameters. ΔMAD and postoperative AJLO were calculated to verify the model and hypothesis. Postoperative changes in radiographic parameters and tibial models showed that the lower extremities were in an unnatural state within 1year after TKA. The changes in the lower extremities force line were the results of the gradual adaptation of the lower extremities to TKA and the lateral swing of the extremities (3°) after surgery. Imaging data 1year after surgery should be taken into account in the explanation of post-TKA changes in lower limb force lines.

Patellofemoral Joint after Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy: A Comparative Study of Uniplane versus Biplane Osteotomies.

ObjectiveTo the best of our knowledge, there has been no comparative study of changes in radiographic parameters in the sagittal plane between biplane opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) with plate fixation and uniplane OWHTO with spacer implantation. The aim of the study was to compare sagittal radiographs between the procedures of biplane and uniplane OWHTOs in patients with genu varum and to investigate the impact on the patellofemoral joint.MethodsA retrospective study of 71 patients (58.0 ± 5.0 years of age, 58 females and 13 males) with varus‐aligned medial compartment knee osteoarthritis treated with OWHTO was performed during the period from January 2016 to February 2019. Thirty‐three patients underwent biplane osteotomy with plate fixation (biplane group), and 38 patients underwent uniplane osteotomy with absorbable wedged spacer fixation (uniplane group). Independent t tests were used to compare the two groups according to the preoperative and postoperative radiographic parameters of hip‐knee‐ankle (HKA) angle, posterior tibial slope (PTS), tibial tubercle prominence (TTP), Caton–Deschamps (CD) index, and Blackburne–Peel (BP) index. During the last follow‐up assessment, patients were asked to rate their patellofemoral joint status using the Samsung Medical Center (SMC) patellofemoral (PF) scoring system. The visual analog scale (VAS) was also used to rate knee joint pain when walking.ResultsThere was no significant difference between the two groups in any of the demographic, clinical, or radiological characteristics at baseline (p > 0.05). Comparisons of postoperative sagittal radiographic parameters between patients in the uniplane group and patients in the biplane group showed significant differences in the PTS (13.4° vs 16.6°, t = 4.465, p < 0.001), TTP (9.0 mm vs 4.2 mm, t = 7.950, p < 0.001), and CD index (0.81 vs 0.70, t = 4.035, p < 0.001). At the final follow‐up assessment (minimum, 2 years), the SMC PF function score was significantly lower in patients in the uniplane group than in patients in the biplane group (27.8 vs. 32.1, t = 2.458, p = 0.016), but there were no significant differences in the SMC PF pain score or VAS score (p > 0.05).ConclusionThe essential difference in the postoperative sagittal radiographic changes between biplane and uniplane OWHTO was the tibial tubercle prominence, indicating the posterior displacement of the tibial tubercle. Uniplane OWHTO may yield better function of the patellofemoral joint compared to biplane OWHTO.

128. A prospective study of lumbar facet arthroplasty in the treatment of degenerative spondylolisthesis and stenosis: results from the Total Posterior Spine System (TOPS) IDE study

<h3>PURPOSE</h3> The purpose of the present study is to report the 1-year clinical and radiographic outcomes as well as safety profiles of patients who underwent lumbar facet arthroplasty via implantation of the TOPS device as part of a prospective Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) trial. <h3>STUDY DESIGN/SETTING</h3> Prospective FDA IDE trial. <h3>METHODS</h3> We reviewed the prospectively collected clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients who underwent facet arthroplasty via implantation of the TOPS device in the investigational arm of a multicenter, prospective, randomized, controlled FDA IDE trial. Standard demographic information was collected for each patient, including surgical variables. Radiographic parameters and patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) including ODI, VAS back and leg, and ZCQ were assessed preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. Adverse event, complication and reoperation data were also collected for each patient. <h3>RESULTS</h3> At the time of this study, 153 patients had undergone implantation of the TOPS device as part of this ongoing clinical trial and were included in this study. The mean surgical time was 187.8 minutes and mean estimated blood loss was 205.7cc. The mean length of hospital stay was 3.0 days. Mean ODI, VAS leg and back, and ZCQ scores improved significantly at all postoperative time points (P>0.001). Greater than 79% of patients achieved MCID in all patient reported outcome measures at all postoperative time points. There were no clinically significant changes in radiographic parameters and all operative segments remained mobile at 1-year follow-up without evidence of worsening sagittal translation. Postoperative complications occurred in 11 patients out of the 153 patients (7.2%) who underwent implantation of the TOPS device, including two new neurological deficits, two dural tears, two retained drains, one misplaced pedicle screw, one screw loosening, one infection, one seroma and one hematoma. Nine patients (5.9%) underwent a total of 13 reoperations, eight for surgical complications (5.3%) and one (0.6%) of which was for device-related failure due to bilateral L4 pedicle screw loosening. <h3>CONCLUSIONS</h3> Lumbar facet arthroplasty with the TOPS device demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in all PROMs and the ability to maintain motion at the index level while limiting sagittal translation with a low complication rate. <h3>FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS</h3> Total Posterior Spine System (TOPS) device: Investigational.

Radiographic Analysis of Pedicle Screw Retractor-Assisted Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Single-Segment Spondylolisthesis in Adults: A Retrospective Study and Technical Note.

ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to introduce a retractor that can be temporarily installed on unilateral pedicle screws to achieve distraction‐reduction and nerve root protection, and to analyze the efficacy and safety of retractor‐assisted transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis.MethodsThis was a retrospective study of 125 patients who underwent retractor‐assisted TLIF for single‐segment spondylolisthesis from November 2017 to February 2021. Based on morphology, patients were divided into degenerative (N = 66) and isthmic groups (N = 59). Differences in demographics and preoperative characteristics between the groups were analyzed using the independent samples t‐test and χ 2 test. Changes in radiographic parameters (disc height, foramen height, spondylolisthesis degree, slippage length, and segmental lordosis) before and after surgery were compared using the paired samples t‐test. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the relationship between facet joint angle (FJA) and degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS).ResultsUnilateral screw retractor‐assisted TLIF significantly corrected spondylolisthesis and improved disc height and segmental lordosis (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in foramen height between the two sides before and after operation (pre: 15.81 ± 3.58 mm vs 15.69 ± 3.68 mm, p = 0.599; post: 18.65 ± 2.31 mm vs 18.74 ± 2.26 mm, p = 0.516). The degree of spondylolisthesis in the DLS group before surgery was significantly lower than that in the isthmic spondylolisthesis group (17.70 ± 5.62% vs 25.18 ± 9.73%, p < 0.001), whereas a similar degree of correction could be achieved after surgery (5.91 ± 3.12% vs 7.16 ± 5.69%, p = 0.135). FJAs from L3/4 to L5/S1 were significantly smaller in patients with DLS than those in with isthmic spondylolisthesis (p < 0.05). Patients with facet sagittalization were more likely to have DLS (β: −0.101, odds ratio [OR]:0.904, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.874–0.934, p < 0.001), while the cut‐off FJA of L4/5 for predicting L4 spondylolisthesis was 53.19.ConclusionsPedicle screw retractor‐assisted TLIF is effective and safe in treating both degenerative and isthmic lumbar spondylolisthesis. The unilateral retractor has the capacity to maintain the disc height achieved by paddle distractors, which optimizes the nerve protection and distractor placement. Patients with an FJA on L4/5 <53.19 were more likely to have DLS.

A Prospective Study of Lumbar Facet Arthroplasty in the Treatment of Degenerative Spondylolisthesis and Stenosis: Results from the Total Posterior Spine System (TOPS) IDE Study.

Prospective randomized Food and Drug Administration investigational device exemption clinical trial. The purpose of the present study is to report the 1-year clinical and radiographic outcomes and safety profile of patients who underwent lumbar facet arthroplasty through implantation of the Total Posterior Spine System (TOPS) device. Lumbar facet arthroplasty is one proposed method of dynamic stabilization to treat grade-1 spondylolisthesis with stenosis; however, there are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved devices for facet arthroplasty. Standard demographic information was collected for each patient. Radiographic parameters and patient-reported outcome measures were assessed preoperatively and at regular postoperative intervals. Complication and reoperation data were also collected for each patient. At the time of this study, 153 patients had undergone implantation of the TOPS device. The mean surgical time was 187.8 minutes and the mean estimated blood loss was 205.7cc. The mean length of hospital stay was 3.0 days. Mean Oswestry Disability Index, Visual Analog Score leg and back, and Zurich Claudication Questionnaire scores improved significantly at all postoperative time points ( P >0.001). There were no clinically significant changes in radiographic parameters, and all operative segments remained mobile at 1-year follow-up. Postoperative complications occurred in 11 patients out of the 153 patients (7.2%) who underwent implantation of the TOPS device. Nine patients (5.9%) underwent a total of 13 reoperations, 1 (0.6%) of which was for device-related failure owing to bilateral L5 pedicle screw loosening. Lumbar facet arthroplasty with the TOPS device demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in all patient-reported outcome measures and the ability to maintain motion at the index level while limiting sagittal translation with a low complication rate.

Impact of the hip joint mobility on whole-body sagittal alignment: prospective analysis in case with hip arthroplasty

To clarify the impact of restriction of hip extension on radiographic whole-body sagittal alignment with using postoperative changes of radiographical parameters for hip osteoarthritis. We prospectively enrolled 68 patients with hip osteoarthritis scheduled for arthroplasty. Variables included manual examination of hip range of motion (H-ROM) and radiographic whole-body sagittal alignment parameters including sagittal vertical axis (SVA), center of acoustic meatus and femoral head offset (CAM-HA), thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis, sacral slope (SS), and knee flexion angle (KF). We divided patients with preoperative hip extension angle < 0 into the extension restriction (ER) + group and ≥ 0 into the ER- group. Differences in H-ROM, radiographic parameters between groups and postoperative changes were comparatively analyzed. Fifty-seven patients (The ER + group included 28 patients and the ER- group included 29 patients.) were available for the analysis. Pre-/postoperative H-ROM were 99.7 ± 24.9/118.1 ± 16.0 degrees (p < .01). Greater increases in SVA (5.4 ± 3.4 vs 3.4 ± 2.8cm, p = .02) and in CAM-HA (3.9 ± 3.9 vs 2.8 ± 3.4cm, p = 013) were found in the ER + group versus ER- group. Postoperatively, the ER + group showed an increase in TK (pre-/postoperative: 35.2 ± 9.7/37.4 ± 8.8 degrees, p = .04) and decreases in SS (36.5 ± 9.6/33.7 ± 9.9 degrees, p < .01) and KF (9.5 ± 7.0/6.9 ± 6.0 degrees, p = .02). Postoperative changes in radiographic parameters in the ER- group were not significant. Patients with restriction of hip extension showed global spine imbalance, and significant changes in TK, SS, and KF were observed after arthroplasty. The presence of hip joint disorder and H-ROM restriction must be considered when evaluating spinopelvic alignment and whole-body sagittal alignment.

The Utilization of Dual Second Sacral Alar-Iliac Screws for Spinopelvic Fixation in Patients with Severe Kyphoscoliosis.

ObjectivesAs a new pelvic fixation technique, the dual S2AI screws fixation technique could provide highly stable distal strength, and have wide clinical prospect in the correction of severe kyphoscoliosis. However, the ideal trajectory parameters, indications and clinical outcomes of this technique have not been reported so far. This study aimed to determine the anatomical parameters of dual S2AI screws in the normal Chinese adult population, investigating the indications of this technique and evaluating the feasibility and clinical outcomes.MethodsFifteen males and 15 females with normal pelvis underwent a pelvic CT scan to determine ideal dual S2AI screws trajectories. Sagittal angle (SA), transverse angle (TA), maximal length (ML), sacral length, and skin distance were measured. Subsequently, we retrospectively reviewed the data of 16 patients (seven males and nine females) who underwent dual S2AI screw fixation and 23 patients who underwent single S2AI screw fixation between January 2014 and December 2019. Preoperative, postoperative, and latest follow‐up measurements of Cobb angle, coronal balance (CB), spinal pelvic obliquity (SPO), and regional kyphosis (RK) were obtained. The mean follow‐up time was 16.7 ± 7.1 months (range: 12–30 months). Independent t‐test was used to determine the difference in the analysis of the trajectories. The paired sample non‐parametric Wilcoxon test was performed to assess the changes in radiographic parameters between different time points and different groups.ResultsFor both male and females, the proximal S2AI screws had significantly higher TA and ML, but a lower SA than distal screws. Females showed significantly more caudal (SA: 25.03° ± 2.32° vs. 29.82° ± 2.47°, t = 7.742, P < 0.001) trajectories of distal screw. Additionally, ML in the females were significantly shorter than that in males (106.81 mm ± 6.79 mm vs. 101.63 mm ± 6.55 mm, t = 3.007, P = 0.003, 124.41 mm ± 7.57 mm vs. 116.23 mm ± 7.03 mm, t = 4.337, P < 0.001). Eight had unilateral and eight had bilateral dual S2AI screw placement. Respectively, both the single S2AI and dual S2AI groups showed significant postoperative improvement of Cobb angle, RK angle and SPO angle. In patients with dual S2AI screws fixation, two patients found that screws loosening occurred in one of dual screws at 1‐year follow‐up, and in patients with single S2AI screws fixation, six patients found screw loosing as well as two patients found screw breakage at 1‐year follow‐up. None of all patients had any prominent loss of correction.ConclusionThe ideal trajectory of dual S2AI screw could be well established. The dual S2AI screw fixation technique is feasible in patients with severe kyphoscoliosis, and provides satisfactory correction of deformity with few postoperative complications.

Identifying Risk Factors for Nonunion of the Modified Lapidus Procedure for the Correction of Hallux Valgus

Category:Bunion; Midfoot/ForefootIntroduction/Purpose:There is a paucity of literature attempting to characterize risk factors for nonunion of the modified Lapidus procedure for correction of hallux valgus. The purpose of this study was to evaluate several patient factors to determine which may contribute to increased odds of nonunion.Methods:Patients who underwent modified Lapidus procedure between 2009 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient age, sex, body mass index (BMI), history of previous bunionectomy, history of tobacco use, fixation method, presence of diabetes mellitus (DM), and presence of hypothyroidism were recorded along with changes in radiographic parameters. A multiple logistic regression analysis was implemented to estimate the odds of nonunion.Results:Of the 222 patients who met inclusion criteria, nonunion with modified Lapidus procedure was observed in 20 patients (9.01%). Odds of nonunion with modified Lapidus procedure were greater for patients as BMI increased (OR=1.101, 95% CI: 1.029 to 1.177), tobacco users (OR=3.511, 95% CI: 1.182 to 10.425), had a change in intermetatarsal angle (IMA) (OR=1.313, 95% CI: 1.099 to 1.569), a change in Meary's angle (OR=1.133, 95% CI: 1.024 to 1.255), and a change in calcaneal pitch (OR=1.192, 95% CI: 0.997 to 1.426), but lower for patients who had a change in hallux valgus angle (OR=0.912, 95% CI: 0.846 to 0.983). Compared with the union group, patients with nonunion had lesser mean degrees correction of IMA (4.25° vs. 7.02°) and greater mean degrees correction of Meary's angle (1.62° vs. 0.46°) and calcaneal pitch (1.09° vs. 0.38°). No increased odds of nonunion were found between fixation methods.Conclusion:Predicted odds of nonunion with modified Lapidus procedure increased in patients with high BMI, smokers, and increased change in intermetatarsal angle, calcaneal pitch, and Meary's angle pre and postoperatively.