Cross-sectional Area Of Multifidus Muscle Research Articles

Cervical impairments in subjects with migraine or tension type headache: an observational study.

The aim of this investigation was to compare the thickness of the deep local muscles in the neck region, as well as local and widespread sensitivity and functionality, between individuals with migraine, Tension-Type Headache (TTH), and healthy controls. To date, we know that the onset of migraine and TTH share similar pathophysiological pathways. Nevertheless, there may be some anatomical and functional differences which would explain why clinicians may obtain variable results when treating both pathological entities with similar or equal approaches. An observational study was conducted in accordance with STROBE guidelines. The flexor longus colli and multifidus, two neck-stabilizing muscles, were measured using B-mode ultrasound imaging. The upper trapezius, masseter, temporalis, tibialis anterior, and median nerve all underwent bilateral pressure-pain threshold (PPT) assessments. Ninety participants were enrolled in the study. All subjects were equally divided into TTH, migraine and control groups. The PPT values exhibited lower thresholds in patients with TTH than both migraine and healthy participants. Specifically, in the temporal muscle on both sides, patients with TTH exhibited a significantly lower threshold (p < 0.001)than both migraine and healthy participants. Patients with TTH displayed significantly lower thresholds in both upper trapezius muscles (right: p < 0.001; left: p = 0.001). Similar results were obtained for the tibialis anterior PPTs from both sides (p = 0.001 in both). However, both clinical groups exhibited lower thresholds than the healthy subjects (p < 0.001). In multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), no statistically significant differences were found between migraine patients and healthy subjects, both in relaxation and contraction (right; p > 0.05 and p > 0.05; left: p > 0.05 and p > 0.05). However, patients with TTH exhibited a smaller CSA than both migraine patients and healthy controls in multifidus relaxed and contracted state (right: p < 0.001 in both relaxed and contracted multifidus; left: p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Similar results were obtained for the left longus colli muscle in both relaxation and contraction for patients with TTH and migraine compared with healthy subjects (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively, for muscle relaxation and p < 0.001 for muscle contraction). However, no significant differences were observed between patients with TTH and migraine (p < 0.05 in both relaxation and contraction). In the right longus colli, TTH and migraine patients had a significantly smaller CSA during contraction than healthy subjects (p < 0.001 in both comparisons). In the craniocervical flexion test, both groups of patients with TTH and migraine showed significantly lower values than healthy subjects (p < 0.001 in both comparisons). However, no significant differences were found between patients with TTH and migraineurs (p > 0.05). The findings provide a significant message for clinicians since anatomical and functional impairments were shown in patients with TTH and migraine. This study corroborates a lack of strength and smaller CSA in both clinical groups compared to controls. Therefore, strengthening programs may be addressed successfully for people with these pathological entities. To be more accurate, according to PPTs and CSA lower values in patients with TTH compared to migraine and controls, manual therapy approaches to desensitize craniocervical soft tissues and exercise therapy to increase endurance of deep cervical muscles may become meaningful especially in subjects with TTH. Nevertheless, in order to distinguish precisely between patients with TTH and migraine, different diagnostic strategies may be used in the future to describe these populations in further detail, which will assist health professionals in a more accurate treatment selection.

The impact of protrusion size on pain, range of motion, functional capacity, and multifidus muscle cross-sectional area in lumbar disc herniation.

To investigate the effect of protrusion amount on pain, lumbar mobility, physical dysfunction, and the cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle in patients with lumbar disc herniation. 54 male patients aged 20 to 50 years were included in this study in 2 groups. The control group (n = 18) consisted of patients with disc herniation without nerve root compression, and the study group (n = 36) consisted of patients with lumbar disc herniation and nerve root compression in 3 subgroups according to the amount of protrusion. The multifidus muscle cross-sectional area and the amount of protrusion were measured using Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Pain Scale, physical dysfunction was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index, flexion-extension was measured with TiltMeter, and trunk rotation was measured with smartphone applications called iPhone Compass. There were no differences in pain levels (P > .05), mean trunk rotation movements of the affected and unaffected sides (P = .001, P = .001, P = .983, and P = .954, respectively), Oswestry Disability Index results (P = .967), or cross-sectional area sizes of the multifidus muscle (P = .866, P = .552, P = .787, respectively). There was a difference between the groups in terms of the mean trunk flexion and extension movement values (P = .001). The regression analysis indicated that there was no significant correlation between the binary variables, and the models exhibited a low explanatory rate for the dependent variable. A relationship has been identified between lumbar disc herniation and low back pain, lumbar movement limitation, and physical functionality. Nevertheless, subsequent to the regression analysis, it became evident that the binary variables did not exhibit a noteworthy relationship, leading to a decrease in the explanatory capacity of the models for the dependent variable. In forthcoming studies, it is advisable to contemplate the augmentation of the subject pool or the incorporation of multiple independent variables into the regression analysis as potential strategies to enhance the model capability in elucidating variations in the dependent variable.

Lumbar multifidus muscle morphology is associated with low back-related pain duration, disability, and leg pain: A cross-sectional study in secondary care.

Systematic reviews and studies exploring associations between morphologic change of paraspinal muscles and low back pain or related outcomes such as disability, radiculopathy, and physical workload, have reported conflicting results. This study explores the associations between lumbar multifidus muscle quality and clinical outcomes relating to low back pain. Cross-sectional study of spinal clinic outpatients presenting with a primary complaint of low back and/or leg symptoms. Univariable and multivariable regression models were used to investigate associations between MRI-based multifidus muscle cross-sectional area at L4 and L5 and clinical outcomes for low back pain, leg pain, disability, restricted motion, and strenuous nature of work. Results were reported with β-coefficients, odds ratios (OR), or incidence rate ratios (IRR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals, based on a 10% difference in muscle quality for each clinical variable. Multivariable analyses were adjusted for age, sex, and BMI. 875 patients [487 females; mean (SD) age: 43.6 (10.2) years] were included. In the multivariable analyses, muscle quality was significantly associated with disability (0-23 scale) [β: -0.74, 95% CI: -1.14, -0.34], leg pain intensity (0-10 scale) [β: -0.25, 95% CI: -0.46, -0.03], and current pain duration of more than 12 months [OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.55]. No associations were found for low back pain intensity, morning stiffness, painful active range of motion, or work nature. Patients with higher lumbar multifidus muscle quality reported lower levels of low back pain-related disability and leg pain intensity, indicating that muscle quality may play a role in the etiology of lumbar spine disorders. However, the clinical importance of these associations is uncertain due to the low magnitude of identified associations. Future longitudinal studies are needed to understand the effect of lumbar multifidus muscle quality on lumbar-related pain and disability.

Correlation between inflammatory cytokine expression in paraspinal tissues and severity of disc degeneration in individuals with lumbar disc herniation

PurposePrevious animal studies have discovered dysregulation of the local inflammatory state as a novel mechanism to explain structural changes in paraspinal muscles in association with disc degeneration. This study aimed to determine whether the expression of inflammatory genes in the multifidus muscle (MM) differs between individuals with disc degeneration and non-degeneration, which may cause changes in the cross-sectional area (CSA) of paraspinal muscles and clinical outcomes.MethodsMuscles were procured from 60 individuals undergoing percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy for lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Total and functional CSAs and fatty degeneration of paraspinal muscles on ipsilateral and unilateral sides were measured. Gene expression was quantified using qPCR assays. Paired t-test and Pearson’s correlation analysis were used to compare the mean difference and associations, respectively.ResultsThere were significant differences in total CSAs of paraspinal muscles and functional CSA and fatty degeneration of MM between ipsilateral and unilateral sides. Participants in the disc degeneration group displayed higher fat infiltration in MM. The expression of TNF was moderately correlated with total CSAs of paraspinal muscles and functional CSA and fatty degeneration of MM. The expression of IL-1β was strongly correlated with the total and functional CSA of MM. The expression of TGF-β1 was moderately correlated with the functional CSA of MM. The expression of TNF, IL-1β, and TGF-β1 was moderate to strongly correlated with clinical outcomes.ConclusionThe results show that there were differences in the characteristics of paraspinal muscles between the ipsilateral and unilateral sides, which were affected by disc degeneration and the degree of fat infiltration. High-fat filtration and reduction of CSA of MM are associated with inflammatory dysfunction. There was evidence of a dysregulated inflammatory profile in MM in individuals with poor clinical outcomes.

Reference values for the cross-sectional area of the lumbar multifidus muscle in children.

The multifidus muscle plays a major role in the growth and postural control of children. Therefore, the reference values of the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the lumbar multifidus muscle represent an important tool for assessing muscle development and the early monitoring of musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of this study was to provide percentile scores for the CSA of the lumbar multifidus muscle in eutrophic children aged 5 to 10 years. This was a cross-sectional, observational study, involving 736 children. An anthropometric assessment was conducted and ultrasound (US) imaging was used to assess the CSA of the lumbar (vertebral level L5) multifidus muscle. The CSA was expressed as percentile scores. The CSA in the boys ranged from 1.8 cm2 to 5.3 cm2 and in girls from 1.9 cm2 to 5.9 cm. The CSA in the 50th percentile scores of both sexes was 3.4 cm2. There was an increase in the CSA between 5 and 7 years old in both sexes. The CSA presented a greater variance in girls than in boys. After 8 years of age, the multifidus CSA increased in girls and decreased in boys. The present study has provided percentile scores for the CSA of the lumbar multifidus muscle for eutrophic children aged 5 to 10 years. An increase was observed of the CSA of the multifidus muscle between the ages of 5 and 7 years and there were no differences in the CSA percentiles in relation to sex. An increase in the CSA after 8 years of age was only observed in the girls.

Morphological Changes in Paraspinal Muscles on MR Imaging in Chronic Low Back Pain Patients with Unilateral Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Low Back Pain (LBP) caused by Lumbar Disc Herniation (LDH) is a major cause of chronic disability worldwide. The management of LDH depends on clinical assessment and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings. Atrophy or fatty replacement of paraspinous muscles has a negative impact on the outcomes of both conservative and surgical treatment for LBP due to LDH. Aim: To analyse the morphological changes in paraspinous muscles using MRI in patients with chronic LBP and unilateral LDH. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi, India, from December 2020 to May 2022. A total of 59 patients, aged 21-65 years, with chronic LBP and unilateral LDH on MRI, were included in the study. The morphological changes in the Multifidus Muscle (MM) and Erector Spinae Muscle (EM) were analysed. The Cross-Sectional Area (CSA) of MM and EM, as well as the Signal Intensity (SI) of MM on the herniated side of the lumbar disc, were recorded and compared to the contralateral side at the same level. Continuous variables were expressed as mean±SD, median, and interquartile range, while categorical variables were presented as numbers and percentages. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare continuous variables, and a p-value of &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 39.17±12.82 years, with 59.3% male and 40.7% female participants. The CSA of MM on the side of disc herniation was 5.84±1.53 cm2 , compared to 6.52±1.69 cm2 on the unaffected side (p=0.02). The CSA of EM on the side of unilateral disc herniation was 13.08±3.04 cm2 , compared to 14.29±3.22 cm2 on the unaffected side (p=0.01). The SI of MM on the affected side was 175.84±100.99, compared to 147.70±83.50 on the unaffected side (p=0.02). Conclusion: Chronic LBP due to unilateral LDH resulted in a reduction in the Cross-Sectional Area (CSA) and fatty infiltration of the ipsilateral paraspinous muscles.

Low lumbar multifidus muscle status and bone mineral density are important risk factors for adjacent segment disease after lumbar fusion: a case–control study

BackgroundThe quantity and quality of the paraspinal muscles are important factors that lead to spinal diseases. However, the role of paraspinal muscles in the pathogenesis of adjacent segment disease (ASD) after lumbar fusion surgery is rarely studied. The purpose of the research is to investigate the relationship between paraspinal muscles and ASD.MethodsThirty-three patients with ASD were included, and 33 controls without ASD were matched according to the basic demographic information. Cross-sectional images of the paraspinal muscles at each intervertebral disk level (L1–S1) before the first operation were analyzed, and the cross-sectional area (CSA) and degree of fat infiltration (FI) of the multifidus (MF) muscle and the erector spinae muscle were compared.ResultsThere was no significant difference in demographic characteristics (P > 0.05) except for the bone mineral density (BMD) (P = 0.037) between the two groups. There were significant differences in the CSA and FI of the lower lumbar multifidus (P < 0.05). The CSA of the MF muscle at L3–L4, FI of the MF muscle at L4–L5 and L5–S1 and BMD were important risk factors for ASD. Among patients who received two-segment fusion for the first time, significant difference was observed in the degree of FI of the MF muscle in the lower lumbar segment (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe CSA, FI and BMD of the lower lumbar MF muscle were closely related to the occurrence of ASD. The CSA of the MF muscle at L3–L4, the degree of FI of the MF muscle at L4–L5 and L5–S1 and BMD were important risk factors for ASD. The number of fusion segments in the first operation has a certain impact on the above-mentioned conclusions.

Multifidus muscle cross-sectional area adaptations over two volleyball seasons and one off-season in athletes with and without low back pain.

The multifidus muscle is important in spine stabilization. Atrophy of the multifidus muscle has been associated with low back pain. To examine multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) adaptations over two volleyball seasons and one off-season in volleyball athletes experiencing low back pain or no low back pain. Twelve female NCAA division 1 volleyball athletes participated. Athletes were placed into a low back pain or no low back pain group. Athlete's multifidus was imaged and measured using ultrasound at four time points across seasons. Imaging time points were before season one, following season one, following off-season, and following season two. A single level mixed-model analysis of variance was used for all analyses. A Tukey HSD post hoc test was used to determine differences between and within the low back pain and the no low back pain groups. Following off-season training the pain group had clinically significant smaller multifidus CSA at the L4 (-2.36 cm2 difference or 17.5%) and L5 (-2.40 cm2 or 12.5%) levels. Non-significant (p> 0.05) decreases in multifidus CSA were seen in both groups following season one and two. Athletes with pain had decreased multifidus CSA at the L4 and L5 vertebral levels at all time points which was non-significant (p> 0.05). Clinically significant decreases in multifidus CSA occurred in female volleyball athletes with low back pain at the L4 and L5 level following off-season training. Volleyball athletes with pain had smaller multifidus CSA averages at all time points measured of the two year period.

Spinal degeneration is associated with lumbar multifidus morphology in secondary care patients with low back or leg pain

Associations between multifidus muscle morphology and degenerative pathologies have been implied in patients with non-specific low back pain, but it is unknown how these are influenced by pathology severity, number, or distribution. MRI measures of pure multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) were acquired from 522 patients presenting with low back and/or leg symptoms in an outpatient clinic. We explored cross-sectional associations between the presence, distribution, and/or severity of lumbar degenerative pathologies (individually and in aggregate) and muscle outcomes in multivariable analyses (beta coefficients [95% CI]). We identified associations between lower pure multifidus muscle CSA and disc degeneration (at two or more levels): − 4.51 [− 6.72; − 2.3], Modic 2 changes: − 4.06 [− 6.09; − 2.04], endplate defects: − 2.74 [− 4.58; − 0.91], facet arthrosis: − 4.02 [− 6.26; − 1.78], disc herniations: − 3.66 [− 5.8; − 1.52], and when > 5 pathologies were present: − 6.77 [− 9.76; − 3.77], with the last supporting a potential dose–response relationship between number of spinal pathologies and multifidus morphology. Our findings could hypothetically indicate that these spinal and muscle findings: (1) are part of the same degenerative process, (2) result from prior injury or other common antecedent events, or (3) have a directional relationship. Future longitudinal studies are needed to further examine the complex nature of these relationships.

Effectiveness of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Dynamic Mobilization Exercises on Equine Multifidus Muscle Cross-Sectional Area

Equine back pain can potentially initiate an unstable intervertebral situation that results in atrophy and dysfunction of the epaxial muscles even after back pain has resolved. Several physiotherapy approaches are advocated to promote the strengthening of the multifidus muscle. This study aimed to asses and compare the effect of dynamic mobilization exercises (DME) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in 8 adult horses (4 individuals by group) to increase the cross-sectional area (CSA) of this muscle after a 7-weeks period treatment. The epaxial muscles of NMES group were electrical stimulated during 10 minutes per session, 4 days a week for 7 weeks, yielding a total of 28 sessions per individual. Horses included in DME group were trained to move the chin to a specific position (three different cervical flexions, one cervical extension and three different lateral bending exercises) to the left and right sides, repeated 5 times per session, completing 28 sessions. Ultrasonographic images of the left and right multifidus muscle were acquired at 3 different spinal locations (T12, T16 and L2) at the initial and the end of the experiment. Significant increases (P < .050) in its CSA were obtained at all levels considered (except at T16), consistent with a 18.65% and 13.41% increase after NMES and DME, respectively. These results suggest that a 7-week period of DME or NMES treatments are useful to increase the CSA of the multifidus muscle in horses, and hence, these two therapies could be combined during a back-rehabilitation program to improve the spine stabilization in horses.

Effectiveness of lumbar stabilization exercise with real-time ultrasound imaging biofeedback on lumbar multifidus muscle cross-sectional area in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundStructural impairment of the lumbar multifidus muscle, such as reduced cross-sectional area, is evident among individuals with chronic low back pain. Real-time ultrasound imaging (RUSI) biofeedback has been reported to improve preferential activation of as well as retention in the ability to activate the lumbar multifidus muscle during lumbar stabilization exercises (LSE). However, evidence of the effectiveness of this treatment approach in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain (NCLBP) is still limited. The purpose of this study is, therefore, to determine the effectiveness of LSE with RUSI biofeedback on lumbar multifidus muscle cross-sectional area in individuals with NCLBP.Methods/DesignThis study is a prospective, single-center, assessor-blind, three-arm, parallel randomized controlled trial to be conducted at National Orthopedic Hospital, Kano State, Nigeria. Ninety individuals with NCLBP will be randomized in a 1:1:1: ratio to receive LSE, LSE with RUSI biofeedback, or minimal intervention. All participants will receive treatment twice weekly for 8 weeks. The primary outcome will be the lumbar multifidus muscle cross-sectional area. The secondary outcomes will include pain (Numerical Pain Rating Scale), functional disability (Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire), and quality of life (12-Item Short-Form Health Survey). All outcomes will be assessed at baseline, 8 weeks post-intervention, and 3 months follow-up.DiscussionTo our knowledge, this study will be the first powered randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness of LSE training with and without RUSI biofeedback in individuals with NCLBP. The outcome of the study may provide evidence for the effectiveness of LSE with RUSI biofeedback on enhancing the recovery of the lumbar multifidus muscle in individuals with NCLBP.Trial registrationPan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR201801002980602). Registered on January 16, 2018.

Effectiveness of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Dynamic Mobilization Exercises on Equine Multifidus Muscle Cross-Sectional Area

Effectiveness of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Dynamic Mobilization Exercises on Equine Multifidus Muscle Cross-Sectional Area

Enhanced Recovery after an Innovative Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for the Treatment of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Prospective Observational Study.

Background The objective of this study was to investigate the enhanced recovery clinical effects of an innovative percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (PE-TLIF) for the treatment of patients with LSS and degenerative instability. Methods From January 2019 to March 2020, 51 patients with single-segment LSS and degenerative instability were prospectively included in our study (ChiCTR1900020679). The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), the visual analogue scale (VAS) on lumbar and leg pain (VAS-LBP and VAS-LP), serum creatine kinase (CK), the peak intensity of sulphur hexafluoride microbubble contrast agent (PI), and the maximal cross-sectional area of multifidus muscle (Max-CSA) around the surgical incision were assessed preoperatively, postoperatively, and at regular follow-up. Results All patients were followed up. The mean postoperative bedridden time was 20.45 ± 2.66 hours. The ODI, VAS-LBP, and VAS-LP were improved significantly after operation compared to these data before operation in all the patients (P < 0.05). The CK at 1 day after operation was higher compared to the data before the operation (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference on CK at 1 week after operation (P > 0.05). The PI at 1 week after operation was higher compared to this item before operation (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference on PI at 1 month or 3 months after operation (P > 0.05). The Max-CSA at 1 week after operation was higher compared to this item before the operation (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference in Max-CSA at 1 month or 3 months after operation compared with before the operation (P > 0.05). Conclusions Our results and systematic review presented the innovative PE-TLIF technique could obtain satisfactory and effective outcomes for the treatment of patients with LSS and degenerative instability. Our PE-TLIF technique also had the ability to decrease the MF injury and obtain an enhanced recovery.

Subsidence of Interbody Cage Following Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion: An Analysis and Potential Risk Factors.

Retrospective cohort study. This study aimed to report the incidence and potential risk factors of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage subsidence following oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) for lumbar degenerative diseases. We proposed also an algorithm to minimize subsidence following OLIF surgery. The study included a retrospective cohort of 107 consecutive patients (48 men and 59 women; mean age, 67.4years) who had received either single- or multi-level OLIF between 2012 and 2019. Patients were classified into subsidence and non-subsidence groups. PEEK cage subsidence was defined as any violation of either endplate from the computed tomography scan in both sagittal and coronal views. Preoperative variables such as age, sex, body mass index, bone mineral density (BMD) measured by preoperative dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, smoking status, corticosteroid use, diagnosis, operative level, multifidus muscle cross-sectional area, and multifidus muscle fatty degeneration were collected. Age-related variables (height and length) were also documented. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the risk factors of subsidence. Of the 107 patients (137 levels), 50 (46.7%) met the subsidence criteria. Higher PEEK cage height had the strongest association with subsidence (OR = 9.59, P < .001). Other factors significantly associated with cage subsistence included age >60years (OR = 3.15, P = .018), BMD <-2.5 (OR = 2.78, P = .006), and severe multifidus muscle fatty degeneration (OR = 1.97, P = .023). Risk factors for subsidence in OLIF were age >60years, BMD < -2.5, higher cage height, and severe multifidus muscle fatty degeneration. Patients who had subsidence had worse early (3months) postoperative back and leg pain.

Innovative Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis with Degenerative Instability: A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial.

PurposeLumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) with instability is most common lumbar degenerative diseases for people with low back pain. The objective of this study was to compared the clinical effects for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) with degenerative instability between the innovative percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (PE-TLIF) technique and posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) technique.Patients and MethodsBetween April 2019 and April 2020, 114 patients with single-segment LSS were prospectively included in our study (ChiCTR1900022492). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) on lumbar and leg pain (VAS-LBP, VAS-LP), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), serum creatine kinase (CK), the maximal cross-sectional area of multifidus muscle (Max-CSA) and the peak intensity of sulphur hexafluoride microbubble contrast agent (PI) around the surgical incision by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography were evaluated preoperatively, post-operatively and at regular follow-up.ResultsAll patients were followed up. The VAS-LBP, VAS-LP, ODI after operation were improved significantly compared to these data before operation in all the patients (P<0.05). The VAS-LBP at 1 weeks, 3 months after operation in PE-TLIF group were significantly lower than these in PLIF group (P<0.05). The injury degree of multifidus muscle evaluated by MAX-CSA and PI was significantly less in PE-TLIF group after operation (P<0.05). There was no significant difference on the complication rate between these two groups (P>0.05).ConclusionOur results presented PE-TLIF technique could obtain comparable effective outcomes as conventional PLIF for the treatment of LSS with degenerative instability. The patients with PE-TLIF had less muscle injury, less pain and quicker postoperative rehabilitation.

Paraspinal muscle damage in intermuscular and conventional lumbar spinal fixation: A comparative study

BackgroundThe conventional approach for lumbar fixation involves subperiosteal muscle dissection, and disruption of normal blood and nerve supply of the back muscles. Different transmuscular approaches, have been described for better preservation of normal neurovascular structures. This leads to less muscle damage and atrophy and consequently less postoperative pain. PurposeCompare between transmuscular approach and conventional approach for lumbar spine fixation. Study DesignA prospective comparative study carried at Neurosurgery Department, Zagazig University, during the period from February 2018 to February 2019. Patients and methods60 patients with degenerative lumbar instability were included in this study and randomly assigned to one of the two groups, Group A (transmuscular group) and Group B (conventional group). Outcome was assessed, using postoperative Visual Analogue Score (VAS) for back pain, change in pre and postoperative levels of Creatine Phospho-Kinase (CPK), and the postoperative change in the cross-sectional area of multifidus muscle, measured using axial CT cuts. ResultsAs regards the hospital stay, it was 1.5 days less in Group A than Group B (P<0.001). The serum CPK increased by only 3 folds in Group A in comparison to 15 folds increase in Group B, indicating less muscle damage (P<0.001). Postoperative Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for back pain was higher in Group B than Group A (P<0.001). Decrease in cross-sectional muscle area in Group B (40%) was more than the decrease in cross-sectional area in Group A (10%), (P<0.001), which means more muscle atrophy in Group B than in Group A. ConclusionUsing the transmuscular approach for lumbar spine fixation is a more conservative approach, than the conventional approach, with less muscle atrophy, better preservation of anatomy, and less postoperative pain.

Correlation between severity of spinal stenosis and multifidus atrophy in degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis

BackgroundDegenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS) is a common degenerative condition in older adults. Muscle atrophy (MA) is a leading cause of muscle weakness and disability commonly reported in individuals with spinal stenosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate if the MA correlates with the grade of spinal stenosis in patients with DLSS.MethodsA retrospective analysis on 48 male and 184 female DLSS patients aged around 54.04 years (54.04 ± 8.93) were involved and divided into 6 groups according to claudication-distance-based grading of spinal stenosis, which confirmed by two independent orthopedic surgeons using T2- weighted images. Using 1.5T MRI scanner, the severity of MA is assessed based on its negative correlation with the ratio of total fat-free multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (TFCSA) to total multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (TCSA). Adobe Photoshop CS6 was used for qualitative image analysis and calculate the TFCSA/TCSA ratio to assess the severity of MA, compare the grade of MA with the spinal stenosis segment, stenosis grade and symptom side.ResultsIn DLSS group, The TFCSA/TCSA ratio are 74.33 ± 2.18 in L3/4 stenosis, 75.51 ± 2.79 in L4/5 stenosis, and 75.49 ± 2.69 in L5/S1 stenosis. there were significant decreases in the TFCSA/TCSA ratio of stenotic segments compared with non-stenotic segments of the spinal canal (P < 0.05) while no significant difference between the non-stenotic segments (P > 0.05). TFCSA/TCSA ratios is significant differences in the TFCSA/TCSA ratios of the 6 DLSS groups (F = 67.832; P < 0.05). From Group 1 to Group 6, the TFCSA/TCSA ratio of stenotic segments positively correlated with the absolute claudication distance (ACD). (P < 0.001, r = 0.852). Besides, the TFCSA/TCSA ratios are smaller in the symptomatic sides of the spine than the contralateral sides (t = 4.128, P = 0.001).ConclusionsThe stenotic segments of the spinal canal are more atrophied than the non-stenotic segment in DLSS patients. It is shows that a strong positive correlation between the severity of multifidus atrophy and the severity of spinal stenosis.

Study on the cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle at the L4-L5 level on ultrasound images of Olympic-style weightlifting and judo athletes

The multifidus muscle is located near the spine and controls the erection of the spine and stabilization during movements of the spine and extremities, and assists in all other spinal movements. Differences in paraspinal muscles between sides and levels, particularly in he multifidus, have been proposed as possible indicators of low back pain or spinal pathology. This study aims to examine the cross-sectional area of the lumbar multifidus muscle at L4-L5 vertebral levels on ultrasound images of athletes in Olympic-style weightlifting, judo athletes and sedentary individuals. This study included asymptomatic male athletes (athletes in Olympic-style weightlifting, n= 17, age: 19.24 ±1.88, judo athletes, n= 17, age: 19.18 ± 1.23) and sedentary individuals (n= 17, age: 19.88 ± 1.31). The cross-sectional area of lumbar multifidus muscles was assessed bilaterally at the L4-L5 segments level in prone and using ultrasound imaging. Lumbar multifidus muscle cross-sectional areas of athletes in Olympic-style weightlifting and judo athletes were larger than those of sedentary individuals (p< 0.004). No asymmetric development was observed in cross-sectional areas of right-left lumbar multifidus muscle at L4-L5 levels of athletes in Olympic-style weightlifting and sedentary individuals (p>0.008). The cross-sectional areas of the right and left lumbar multifidus muscle at L5 segment of individuals in judo athletes was found to be asymmetrical (p< 0.008). Our study shows that the cross-sectional areas of athletes in Olympic-style weightlifting and judo athletes are larger than that of sedentary individuals. The difference in the cross-sectional area of the lumbar multifidus muscle of athlete and sedentary groups might be said to result from hypertrophic effect of trainings of these athletes on the cross-sectional area of the lumbar multifidus muscle.

Influence of Handgrip Strength and Paraspinal Muscles' Volume on Clinical Outcomes in the Patients With Each Sagittal Imbalance and Lumbar Spinal Stenosis.

Cross-sectional study. To compare handgrip strength (HGS), paraspinal muscles' (PSM) volume, and their effects on clinical symptom severity between the patients with sagittal imbalance (SI) and symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). A total of 54 paired consecutive patients with SI and LSS were enrolled after propensity score matching. Preoperative HGS, cross-sectional area (CSA) of psoas (PS) and multifidus (MF) muscles, and patient-reported measures, including visual analog scale (VAS) for back/ leg pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and EuroQOL (EQ-5D) were compared between both groups. Within each SI and LSS group, patient-reported measures were compared between high and low HGS subgroups. The correlation of HGS and CSA of PSMs to patient-reported measures was evaluated. There was no difference in HGS between 2 groups, however, the CSA of PS and MF muscles in SI group was significantly lower than those in LSS group. Patients with low HGS showed inferior results for ODI and EQ-5D, compared to those with high HGS subgroup in both SI and LSS groups. HGS and CSA of MF muscle were correlated with ODI in both groups. There was no significant difference between the SI and LSS groups in HGS, however, PSMs' volume in SI group were significantly lower than those in LSS group. Therefore SI would be associated with loss of localized muscle mass in back area, rather than global skeletal muscle weakness. HGS and PSMs' volume were adversely associated with functional status in SI and LSS patients.

Effects of spinal stabilization exercise with real-time ultrasound imaging biofeedback in individuals with chronic nonspecific low back pain: a pilot study.

The use of real-time ultrasound imaging (RUSI) as biofeedback to enhance the performance of spinal stabilization exercise and recovery from low back pain has been a recent trend in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate whether it would be feasible to conduct a randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of spinal stabilization exercise with RUSI biofeedback in individuals with chronic nonspecific low back pain. This was a single-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental study. Ten consecutive patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain met the study criteria. They received spinal stabilization exercise with the RUSI biofeedback focusing on lumbar multifidus muscle activation. The intervention was provided twice weekly for 6 weeks. Outcome measures were lumbar multifidus muscle cross-sectional area, pain, disability and quality of life assessed at baseline and after intervention. A paired t-test was applied and effect size (Cohen d) was computed. The recruitment and retention rates were 75% and 83% respectively. No adverse events were reported during the study. Compared with the baseline, the participants demonstrated statistically significant improvement in lumbar multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (P<0.05, d=1.03), pain (P<0.001, d=2.56) and disability (P<0.05, d=1.43) with large effect size after the intervention. However, no statistically significant differences were observed for physical and mental health (P>0.05) after the intervention. It was concluded that spinal stabilization exercise with RUSI biofeedback is effective in improving lumbar multifidus muscle cross-sectional area, pain and disability in individuals with chronic nonspecific low back pain. The results demonstrated the feasibility of conducting a future, larger-scale powered randomized controlled trial to confirm these preliminary findings.