Fourth Lumbar Research Articles

Usefulness of Psoas Muscle Area to Predict Mortality in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Frailty has become high-priority theme in cardiovascular diseases because of aging and increasingly complex nature of patients. Low muscle mass is characteristic of frailty, in which invasive interventions are avoided if possible because of decreased physiological reserve. This study aimed to determine if the psoas muscle area (PMA) could predict mortality and to investigate its utility in patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We retrospectively reviewed 232 consecutive patients who underwent TAVR. Cross-sectional areas of the psoas muscles at the level of fourth lumbar vertebra were measured by computed tomography and normalized to body surface area. Patients were divided into tertiles according to the normalized PMA for each gender (men: tertile 1, 1,708 to 1,178mm(2)/m(2); tertile 2, 1,176 to 1,011mm(2)/m(2); and tertile 3, 1,009 to 587mm(2)/m(2); women: tertile 1, 1,436 to 962mm(2)/m(2); tertile 2, 952 to 807mm(2)/m(2); and tertile 3, 806 to 527mm(2)/m(2)). Smaller normalized PMA was independently correlated with women and higher New York Heart Association classification. After adjustment for multiple confounding factors, the normalized PMA tertile was independently associated with mortality at 6months (adjusted hazard ratio 1.53, 95% confidence interval 1.06 to 2.21). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that tertile 3 had higher mortality rates than tertile 1 at 6months (14% and 31%, respectively, p= 0.029). Receiver-operating characteristic analysis showed that normalized PMA provided the increase of C-statistics for predicting mortality for a clinical model and gait speed. In conclusion, PMA is an independent predictor of mortality after TAVR and can complement a clinical model and gait speed.

Bilateral Absence of Common Iliac Artery: Abnormal anatomical variation of the Internal Iliac Artery During Ligation in Conservative Surgical Management of Placenta Previa Accreta

Abnormal placental invasion has increased with persistent rise in cesarean delivery. Management depends on accurate diagnosis, and delivery should be planned at an institution with appropriate expertise and resources. Hemorrhage in pregnancy is the leading cause of maternal mortality in developing countries. Internal iliac artery ligation is one of the lifesaving procedures in intractable pelvic hemorrhage. The vascular malformations involving the abdominal aorta, common iliac artery and its branches are very rare. We present a case of placenta accreta which is a major risk for peripartum deaths. In this case, we tried to explain our conservative surgical approach in the form of cervico-isthmical transverse opposition suture with bilateral internal iliac artery ligation. Normally, the abdominal aorta bifurcates into the right and left common iliac arteries anterolateral to the fourth lumbar vertebra. In the present case, there was bilateral absence of common iliac arteries which are the terminal branches of the abdominal aorta. Internal iliac artery was extremely long and equal size to external one. The reason for the absence of common iliac artery may be attributed to the disappearance of the initial segment of the umbilical artery. Cesarean section and placenta previa are significant risk factors for placenta accreta which is associated with high fetomaternal morbidity and mortality. In order to avoid postpartum hemorrhage and fertility loosing hysterectomy, our approach which consists of bilateral hypogastric arterial ligation and transverse compression sutures in the lower uterine segment can be applied successfully. Proper identification of anatomical variations in pelvic vasculature is essential for surgical and radiological interventions to prevent complications. This article aims at sharing author’s experience about the anatomical variation of the artery especially long ones as in absent common iliac artery or even a high bifurcation.

Underlying CT anatomy and subtype diagnosis of iliac vein compression syndrome

Objective To explore the underlying anatomy of iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS) using CT, and discuss the imageological index for subtype diagnosis and potential clinical significance. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the imageological data of 69 IVCS patients from July, 2009 to June, 2014. According to CT findings, patients were categorized to simple IVCS (sIVCS, the iliac vein is compressed by only the anterior iliac artery, n=22), lumbar degeneration-related IVCS (dIVCS, besides the iliac artery, the lower lumbar degenerative changes including osteophyte, protruded disc, etc. pressed the iliac vein from the back, n=33) and other IVCS causes (oIVCS, including tuberculosis, inflammation and fracture hematoma of the lumbar spine, n=14); meanwhile, 69 age- and sex-matched subjects was set as a control group. Evaluated indexes were onset age, course of lower limb swelling and pain, size of the iliac vein tunnel ahead lumbar (IVTAL), lower lumbar spine forward curvature angle (LLSCA), iliac vein-pressed signs by lower lumbar degeneration, compression sites, scope of deep venous thrombosis and interventional therapeutic effect. The differences of those indexes of various groups were compared. Data as onset age, course of disease, sizes of IVTAL and LLSCA were evaluated using variance analysis of the general linear model, with Bofferroni test correction for multiple comparisons. Data as iliac vein-pressed site, scope of venous embolism and therapeutic effect were assessed by crossing table χ2 test. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS17.0 software (SPSS company, Chicago, USA). Bilateral P≤0.05 were considered to be significant. Results The onset mean age was (61.5±10.6) yr. in dIVCS, (42.3±6.5) yr in sIVCS. and (53.1±16.8) yr. in oIVCS with a significant difference (F=11.030, P<0.01). Mean sagittal diameter of the IVTAL and LLSCA were (2.3±0.5) mm and (121.8±5.4) ° in dIVCS and (2.5±0.5) mm and (124.4±3.9) ° in sIVCS, respectively; which were smaller than those of control group [ (6.4±1.6) mm and (127.5±7.3) °, respectively] and oIVCS [ (5.9±2.3) mm and (129.5±5.9) °, respectively] (F=125.275, P<0.01 for sigittal diameter and F=7.95, P<0.01 for LLSCA) . The degenerative changes compressing the iliac vein of dIVCS had 41 sites of 33 patients which were respectively the discal forward protrusion or bulge (51%, 17/33), vertebral anterior osteophyte (50%, 16/33)and lower lumbar vertebrae slippage (19%,8/33). The compression sites of dIVCS located exactly anterior to the fifth lumbar (18/33, 56%) , the intervertebral disk between the fourth and fifth lumbar (9/33, 26%) , the right front (3/33, 9%) and left front (3/33, 9%) of the fifth lumbar, however, that of sIVCS sited the right front (14/22, 64%) , exactly the front (4/22, 18%) of the fifth lumbar and exactly anterior (4/22, 18%) to the intervertebral disk between the fourth and fifth lumbar, with a significant difference of location distribution (χ2=19.305, P<0.01) . In sIVCSs, deep vein thrombosis of all exceeded the iliac vein length and implicated the femoral vein by 27% (6/22) and the popliteal vein by 73% (16/22) , while in dIVCSs 18% (6/33) patients had deep vein thrombosis in the iliac vein, 30% (10/33) in the femoral vein and 52% (17/33) in the popliteal vein, and in oIVCSs, 30% (4/14) patients had deep vein thrombosis in the iliac vein, 40% (6/14) in the femoral vein and 30% (4/14) in the popliteal vein, with a significant difference of thrombosis scope (χ2=9.28, P<0.01) . 86% sIVCSs needed intravenous stent-implanted operation to obtain effective treatment, only 52% dIVCSs were performed stent-implanted operation for effective therapy, none of oIVCSs had stent-implanted operation before the iliac vein recanalization. Conclusion CT can precisely display the pathological anatomy features of different IVCS patients, which can potentially help clinicians plan accurate treatment strategy. Key words: Iliac vein compression syndrome; Degenerative lumbar disease; Radiology, interventional

Neurological Recovery after Early Reposition, Decompression and Instrumented Fusion of C-Type L2 Fracture: A Case Report

Introduction The case report evaluates the clinical and radiological success of early reposition, posterior decompression, posterolateral fusion and stabilization by titanium pedicle screws and rods, performed within six hours after injury in young patient with C-type second lumbar vertebrae (L2) fracture. Material and Methods 22 years old male patient presented in our Clinic with C-type L2 fracture after accident on work site when a part of truck engine felt on his back. The severity of injury was determined using the ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) scale. Preoperative ASIA impairment scale was evaluated as grade C, with L2 as the most caudal segment with normal motor function. ASIA muscle grading was grade ⅖ evaluated bilaterally on knee extensors, ankle dorsiflexors, long toe extensors and ankle plantar flexors. Patient had voluntary anal contraction and normal anal sensation. ASIA sensory pin prick and light touch scores were in the normal range. Concomitant injuries included transverse process fractures of first, third and fourth lumbar vertebrae (L1, L3, L4) with dislocation, bilateral pneumothorax, fracture of eighth rib on right side and right-sided pulmonary contusion. MSCT showed multifragmentary fracture of anterior and posterior elements of L2 with dislocation and luxation. Preoperative treatment included corticosteroid therapy according to NASCIS III protocol and was continued 3 days postoperatively. Surgery was performed within 6 hours after injury. Reposition of lumbar luxation, posterior decompression, stabilization by titanium pedicle screws and rods and posterolateral fusion with autologous bone graft was done. Postoperatively patient wore a thoracolumbar orthosis for 12 weeks. Physical therapy started second day after surgery and was continued for 12 weeks. Results Patient underwent neurological and radiological evaluation 3 days and 12 weeks postoperatively. MSCT and MR imaging were performed. 3 days postoperatively ASIA impairment scale was grade D, showing neurological recovery on lower limbs with muscle grading ⅘ on knee extensors, ankle dorsiflexors, long toe extensors and ankle plantar flexors. 12 weeks postoperatively ASIA impairment scale remained D but complete motor recovery was noticed on knee extensors and long toe extensors bilaterally. Radiological examinations showed residual dislocation in L1/L2 segment with faset joints subluxation and right-sided foraminal stenosis. 12 weeks postoperatively patient was walking independently with residual motor deficit seen on ankle dorsiflexors and ankle plantar flexors on both legs. Conclusion In young patient with C-type lumbar fracture and incomplete neurological deficit open reposition, posterior decompression, posterolateral fusion and instrumented stabilization is a safe and effective procedure. It is important to involve corticosteroid therapy and to perform a surgery in early phase after traumatic incident. Our results showed that there is a great possibility of neurological recovery if the surgery is performed within 6 hours after injury.

Variations in arterial supply to the lower lumbar spine.

Several papers examined the vascular anatomy of the lumbosacral region using cadavers with angiography. However, few reports used CT angiography, and discussion on variations of fourth lumbar, fifth lumbar, and lumbar branch of iliolumbar arteries were limited. To clarify the vascular variations around the lower lumbar spine including the lumbosacral region, particularly at the posterior elements, we performed anatomical analysis using computed tomography (CT). Extra-osseous arteries surrounding the lumbar spine including the lumbosacral region were evaluated by two orthopedic surgeons independently, using 323 consecutive abdominal contrast-enhanced multi-planner CT scans that were taken for surgical plans in colon cancer patients. Subjects were 204 men and 119 women, whose ages ranged from 15 to 89years (mean 66.5). Each segmental artery was visible at the L1-4 spinal levels, running from the vertebra through the lamina in 91.0% on the right side, in 90.7% on the left side, while it was visible in 4.6% on the right side, in 8.7% on the left side at the L5 level. The extra-osseous arterial supply to the L5 lamina was basically provided by two vessels on each side. One was mostly derived from the L4 segmental artery (right: 92.6%; left: 92.0%) that was distributed around the superior articular process, the other was derived from the iliolumbar artery (right: 62.9%; left: 55.7%) that was distributed around the inferior articular process through the lamina. There were mainly four combination patterns of those arteries. These combinations, which had been considered as regular patterns in textbooks, were observed in approximately 50% (right: 55.7%; left: 48.6%) of patients. Various distributions of arteries around the lower spine were identified.

Short- and long-term reproducibility of marrow adipose tissue quantification by 1H-MR spectroscopy.

To assess short- and long-term reproducibility of marrow adipose tissue (MAT) quantification by 1H-MR spectroscopy. Our study was IRB-approved and HIPAA compliant. Written informed consent was obtained. We studied 20 overweight/obese but otherwise healthy subjects (12female, 8male) with a mean age of 37 ± 6years. All subjects underwent proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) of the fourth lumbar vertebral body using a single-voxel point-resolved spatially localized spectroscopy sequence without water suppression at 3 T. Measurements were repeated after 6weeks and 6months using identical scanning protocols. The following clinical parameters were collected, weight, BMI, exercise status, and trabecular bone mineral density (BMD), by quantitative computed tomography. Short- (baseline, 6 weeks) and long-term (baseline, 6 months) reproducibility of MAT was assessed by the coefficient of variance (CV), standard deviation (SD), and interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Short- and long-term changes in clinical parameters were assessed by paired t-test. For short-term reproducibility between baseline and 6-week scans, the CV was 9.9%, SD was 0.08, and ICC was 0.97 (95% CI 0.94-099). For long-term reproducibility between baseline and 6-month scans, the CV was 12.0%, SD was 0.10, and ICC was 0.95 (95% CI 0.88 to 0.98). There was no significant short- or long-term change in clinical parameters (weight, BMI, exercise status, BMD) (p > 0.2). 1H-MRS is a reproducible method for short- and long-term quantification of MAT. Our results can guide sample size calculations for interventional and longitudinal studies.

Comparison of planar bone scintigraphy and single photon emission computed tomography for diagnosis of active condylar hyperplasia.

The aim of this study was to compare the reliability and correlations with age and gender of two nuclear medicine tests used for diagnosis of active condylar hyperplasia, namely, planar bone scintigraphy versus single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). This was a descriptive observational study carried out in 61 patients (38 women and 23 men) clinically diagnosed as having facial asymmetry and suspected unilateral condylar hyperplasia. The patients had both planar bone scintigraphy and SPECT diagnostic imaging as well as reference data of the percentage of (99)Tc(m) MDP (methylenediphosphonate) uptake in the condyle, clivus, and fourth lumbar vertebra (L4), respectively, for SPECT and planar scintigraphy calculations. Radioactive counts were measured per region of interest and the respective ratios were calculated. The age range of the patients was 13-50 years (mean ± standard deviation = 21.16 ± 8.75). The two groups were compared by a nonparametric (Mann-Whitney U test. Uptake percentage and delta values had normal distribution and consequently were compared by a Student t test. A total of 61 anterior planar images and 61 SPECT images were compared. Eight patients presented high uptake in planar bone scintigraphy images (13.11%), while 32 patients (52.46%) had high uptake with SPECT. The prevalence of condylar hyperactivity was higher in women than in men both for right condyle (ratio 4:3) and for left condyle (10:1) and the prevalence was significantly higher for the right condyle. The study indicates that SPECT is more sensitive to identify condylar hyperactivity as compared to planar bone scintigraphy in patients with clinical presumptive diagnostic of condylar hyperplasia.

Biomechanical Comparison of Two Kinds of Internal Fixation in a Type C Zone II Pelvic Fracture Model

Background:Unstable pelvic fractures are complex and serious injuries. Selection of a fixation method for these fractures remains a challenging problem for orthopedic surgeons. This study aimed to compare the stability of Tile C pelvic fractures fixed with two iliosacral (IS) screws and minimally invasive adjustable plate (MIAP) combined with one IS screw.Methods:This study was a biomechanical experiment. Six embalmed specimens of the adult pelvis were used. The soft tissue was removed from the specimens, and the spines from the fourth lumbar vertebra to the proximal one-third of both femurs were retained. The pubic symphysis, bilateral sacroiliac joints and ligaments, bilateral hip joints, bilateral sacrotuberous ligaments, and bilateral sacrospinous ligaments were intact. Tile C pelvic fractures were made on the specimens. The symphysis pubis was fixed with a plate, and the fracture on the posterior pelvic ring was fixed with two kinds of internal fixation in turn. The specimens were placed in a biomechanical machine at a standing neutral posture. A cyclic vertical load of up to 500 N was applied, and displacement was recorded. Shifts in the fracture gap were measured by a grating displacement sensor. Statistical analysis used: Paired-samples t-test.Results:Under the vertical load of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 N, the average displacement of the specimens fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was 0.46, 0.735, 1.377, 1.823, and 2.215 mm, respectively, which was significantly lower than that of specimens fixed with two IS screws under corresponding load (P < 0.05). Under the vertical load of 500 N, the shift in the fracture gap of specimens fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was 0.261 ± 0.095 mm, and that of specimens fixed with two IS screws was 0.809 ± 0.170 mm. The difference was significant (P < 0.05).Conclusion:The stability of Tile C pelvic fractures fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was better than that fixed with two IS screws.

Effects of aerobic and resistance training on abdominal fat, apolipoproteins and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in adolescents with obesity: the HEARTY randomized clinical trial.

To investigate the effects of aerobic training, resistance training, or both on abdominal subcutaneous fat (subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT)) (deep and superficial), visceral fat (visceral adipose tissue (VAT)), apolipoproteins A-1 and B (ApoA-1, ApoB), ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HSCRP) in post-pubertal adolescents with obesity. After a 4-week supervised moderate-intensity exercise run-in period, 304 postpubertal adolescents with overweight (body mass index (BMI) ⩾85th percentile for age and sex+diabetes risk factor) or obesity (⩾95th BMI percentile) aged 14-18 years were randomized to four groups for 22 weeks (5 months): aerobic training, resistance training, combined training or a non-exercising control. This study used a randomized controlled design. All groups received dietary counseling designed to promote healthy eating with a maximum daily energy deficit of 250 kcal. Abdominal fat (SAT and VAT) at the level of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae (L4-L5) was measured by magnetic resonance imaging and ApoA-1, ApoB and HSCRP were measured after a 12-h fast at baseline and after 6 months. Changes in SAT at L4-L5 were -16.2 cm(2) in aerobic (P=0.04 vs control), -22.7 cm(2) in resistance (P=0.009 vs control) and -18.7 cm(2) in combined (P=0.02 vs control). Combined training reduced ApoB levels from 0.81±0.02 to 0.78±0.02 g l(-1) (P=0.04 vs control) and ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio from 0.67±0.02 to 0.64±0.02 (P=0.02 vs control and P=0.04 vs aerobic). There were no significant differences in VAT, ApoA-1 or HSCRP levels between groups. Aerobic and resistance training and their combination decreased abdominal SAT in adolescents with obesity. Combined training caused greater improvements in ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio compared with aerobic training alone.

A novel combined hemipelvic endoprosthesis for peri-acetabular tumours involving sacroiliac joint: a finite element study.

Our aim was to introduce a novel combined hemipelvic endoprosthesis for pelvic reconstruction after Enneking type I/II/IV resection and to evaluate the biomechanical properties of the endoprosthesis using finite element analysis. A three-dimensional finite element model of the postoperative pelvis was developed based on computed tomography (CT) images of the patient with the best post-operative limb function. A force of 400 N was applied along the longitudinal axis of the normal and post-operative pelvis for two positions: standing on two feet and sitting. Stress-distribution analysis was performed in both positions, and results were compared. Prosthesis improvements were simulated by intervertebral fusion and extra screw fixation. In the normal pelvis, stress distributions were mostly concentrated on the superior area of the acetabulum, arcuate line, sacroiliac joint and sacral midline in both static conditions, and peak stresses of 1.52 MPa and 4.53 MPa were observed at the superior area of the greater sciatic notch and ischial tuberosity, respectively. For the reconstructed hemipelvis, stress distributions were concentrated on the connecting rods of the acetabular component and the proximal segment of the pedicle rods, and peak stresses of 252 MPa and 213 MPa were observed on the proximal pedicle rods of the fourth lumbar vertebra for standing and sitting, respectively. Interbody fusion of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae and extra screw fixation to the sacrum decreased the peak stresses by 33.0 % and 18.3 % while standing and by 10.8 % and 6.6 % while sitting. Reconstruction with combined hemipelvic endoprosthesis after types I/II/IV resection of the pelvis fulfilled physiological and biomechanical demands of the hemipelvis and yielded good biomechanical characteristics.

A Child Develops Drop Foot after Spinal Anaesthesia.

To the Editor, Spinal anesthesia has been used with children since 1909 (1). In 1950, a study reported that a cooperative child is likely to be a good subject for spinal anesthesia in cases where premedication may be inadequate (2). A nine-year-old girl weighing 20 kgs and with a height of 126 cm was diagnosed with acute appendicitis. An emergency operation was planned. Her medical history was normal except for a productive cough and runny nose over the previous three days. In the preoperative physical examination, rales in the lungs, extensive tenderness and distension in the abdomen were found. Thirty minutes before the operation, midazolam 0.05 mg/kg was given for premedication. A non-traumatic lumbar puncture was performed using a 26 G (Atraucan, 50 mm Braun Melsungen AG, Germany) pediatric spinal needle in the sitting position. At first at-tempt a clear cerebrospinal fluid flowed out, then 0.2 mg/kg of heavy bupivacaine was applied into the subarachnoid space between the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae. Sensorial block dermatome was checked using a pinprick test. When the level reached T8, the operation was started. The patient was hemodynamically stable during the operation and was in the recovery room for 30 minutes. In the sixth postoperative hour, she developed weakness in her left ankle, with muscle strength loss in the dorsiflexion (1/5), eversion (1/5), plantar flexion (3/5), toe dorsiflexion (1/5), and plantar flexion (3/5). Accompanying sensory deficit in the dorsum and anterolateral tibial part of the left leg (L5 and S1 dermatomes) was observed. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography revealed normal findings. Postoperative 1st and 20th day electromyography showed no pathologic findings. A course of 25 mg/kg ga bapentin three times a day and vitamin B complex twice a day were prescribed. Physical therapy, including passive stretching, range of motion, balance, and strengthening exercises were performed. For the left anterior tibialmuscle, electrical stimulation was applied daily for 15 minutes. In neurological examination, improvement in muscle deficit was observed. Muscle strength was 4/5 in all of the muscles involved. Discharged with a home-based treatment program, she was able to walk without support on the 70th day. Although publications about complications of spinal anesthesia in children exist (3), there are few reports indicating safe and effective usage of spinal anesthesia (4,5). Transient neurological damage usually develops without pain or paresthesia during the lumbar puncture, as in our case. In differential diagnosis of neurological damage after spinal anesthesia, possible diagnosis of epidural hematoma, epidural abscess, anterior spinal artery syndrome, adhesivear-achnoiditis, caudaequina syndrome should be excluded. We excluded all these diagnoses with the help of a physical examination and MRI. Since the patient was in a supine position and had no history of any intramuscular injection, neurologic damage due to malpositioning or intramuscular injection were also excluded. In case of complications, a multidisciplinary approach is necessary for prompt and correct diagnosis, as well as to initiate the most appropriate mode of therapy for optimal results in the shortest time.

Decrease with aging of the microcirculatory function of the lumbar vertebral marrow preceding the loss of bone material density and the onset of intervertebral discal degeneration: A study about the potential cause

ObjectiveUsing a dynamic computed tomographic perfusion (CTP) imaging method to explore the age-related distribution of the microcirculation perfusion function in the vertebral marrow, the bone material density (BMD), and the intervertebral discal degeneration (IDD). Further, to discuss a possible causation relationship between them. MethodsOne hundred and eighty-six people were randomly enrolled by stratified sampling and grouped by age: ≤15, 16–25, 26–35, 36–45, 46–55, 56–65, 66–75, and ≥76 years old. The average CTP and BMD of the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae marrow were measured and the IDD incidence of the third-fourth vertebrae was assessed. The temporal–spatial distribution patterns of the age-related changes of the CTP, BMD, and IDD were described, and the correlations between them were calculated. ResultsThe microcirculatory perfusion function of the vertebral marrow develops to maturity by 25 years and is maintained until age 35, then declines with aging. The BMD grew to a peak from 26 to 45 years old, then decreased yearly. The IDD showed a sudden increase after 45 years of age. The CTP [BF (r = 0.806, P = 0.000), BV (r = 0.685, P = 0.005) and PMB (r = 0.619, P = 0.001)] showed strong positive correlations and CTP [TTP (r = −0.211, P = 0.322) and MTT (r = −0.598, P = 0.002)] showed negative correlations with BMD. The CTP [BF (r = −0.815, P = 0.000), BV (r = −0.753, P = 0.000) and PMB (r = −0.690, P = 0.000)] had strong negative correlations, and CTP [TTP (r = 0.323, P = 0.126) and MTT (r = 0.628, P = 0.001)] had positive correlations with the incidence of IDD. ConclusionThe decrease with aging of the microcirculatory perfusion in the lumbar vertebral marrow preceded, and is a potential causative factor for the loss of BMD and the onset of IDD.

Anatomical and CT approach of the adipose tissue: application in morbid obesity.

The importance and proportion of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) represent the best criterion to define obesity. Because VAT value is difficult to obtain in clinical practice, the indication for bariatric surgery is still based at present on Body Mass index (BMI), even though BMI is a poor predictor of obesity-related morbid complications. This correlation study aimed at determining a simple and accurate computed tomography (CT) anatomic marker, which can be easily used clinically, well correlated with the volume of VAT and consequently with morbid complications. We studied 108 CT scans of patients presenting with morbid obesity. Several simplified measures (external and internal abdominal diameters and circumferences) were conducted on CT scan view, going through the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4), in addition to various vertebral measurements (area of the vertebra, sagittal and transversal diameters), VAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). Then, we reported the simplified measures values on the vertebral areas, and we calculated the Bertin index. Finally, we conducted a correlation study between all variables to obtain accurate VAT measurements. The internal abdominal circumference and the Bertin index showed the best correlations with VAT in morbidly obese patients (r=0.84 and 0.85, respectively). BMI and anthropometric measures were not correlated with VAT. CT scan study allows to simply approximate VAT value in morbidly obese patients. An abdominal CT scan could be part of the tests used in the evaluation of obese patients to base therapeutic strategies on VAT values and not on BMI as it is the case today.

Dysfunctional microcirculation of the lumbar vertebral marrow prior to the bone loss and intervertebral discal degeneration.

Descriptive study, stratified sampling. Using dynamic computed tomographic perfusion (CTP) to explore the age-related distribution patterns of the microcirculation perfusion in the vertebral marrow, the vertebral bone mineral density (BMD), and the intervertebral discal degeneration (IDD) further to discuss the possible causation between them. A latest viewpoint deemed that reduced blood supply of the vertebral marrow was correlated with an increased incidence of IDD and loss of BMD. However, the causative relationship between them needs more investigation. One hundred eighty-six general people were randomly enrolled by stratified sampling and grouped by age: 15 years or less, 16 to 25 years, 26 to 35 years, 36 to 45 years, 46 to 55 years, 56 to 65 years, 66 to 75 years, and 76 years or more. Both CTP and BMD of the third and fourth lumbar vertebral marrow were measured, and the IDD incidence of the third-fourth vertebrae was assessed. The temporal-spatial distribution patterns of the age-related changes of CTP, BMD, and IDD were described, and the correlations between them were calculated. Microcirculatory perfusion of the vertebral marrow developed to maturate by 25 years, maintained stable at 35 years, and then declined by age after 35 years. BMD grew to a peak phase in 26 to 45 years and then dropped by years. However, IDD presented a sudden increase after 45 years of age. CTP (blood flow [r=0.806], blood volume [r=0.685], and permeability [r=0.619]) showed strong positive correlations and CTP (time to peak [r=-0.211], mean transit time [r=-0.598]) showed negative correlations with BMD. Meanwhile, CTP (blood flow [r=-0.815], blood volume [r=-0.753], and permeability [r=-0.690]) had strong negative correlations and CTP (time to peak [r=0.323] and mean transit time [r=0.628]) had positive correlations with the incidence of IDD. Aging-related decrease of the microcirculatory perfusion of the lumbar vertebral marrow preceded the loss of BMD and the onset of IDD, indicating their possible causal relationship. 3.

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in peritoneal dialysis: a forgotten risk factor.

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) is common among patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). We examined the relationship between LVDD, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and mortality in PD patients. A total of 149 patients undergoing PD with preserved left ventricular systolic function were included and followed for 3.5 years. LVDD was diagnosed (according to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines) by conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography. Serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) was measured. The location and volume of adipose tissue were assessed by computed tomography (CT) at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra. Subjects with LVDD had higher levels of hsCRP, and more visceral and peritoneal fat than controls. The relationship between adjusted visceral adipose tissue and LVDD became nonsignificant when hsCRP and baseline demographic data were introduced into the logistic regression model (odds ratio = 1.52, P = 0.07). Subsequent hierarchical multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that LVDD was one of the most powerful determinants of MACE and mortality after adjusting for all confounding factors (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.71, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.43-3.51, P = 0.02 and HR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.45-2.91, P = 0.04, respectively). Systemic inflammation (hsCRP) was also significantly associated with MACE and mortality (HR: 2.03, P = 0.03 and HR: 2.16, P = 0.04, respectively). LVDD is associated with systemic inflammation and increased visceral fat in patients undergoing PD. LVDD is also a sensitive, independent indicator of future MACE and mortality in PD patients.

Age-related trends in vertebral dimensions.

Several studies have demonstrated age-related changes in vertebral dimensions. Vertebral size has been reported to increase among elderly adults, with periosteal apposition resulting in increased cross-sectional area (CSA) of the vertebral corpus combined with reduction in bone mineral density. These changes in CSA are observed to be sex-specific, as the pronounced increase of vertebral CSA is found only in elderly males. However, the reduction in bone mineral density in old age is apparent within both sexes. It is thus hypothesized that higher fracture risk in elderly women is a result of their incapacity to increase vertebral size and thus adapt to bone mineral reduction. In this study, our aim was to explore whether the onset of these changes could be ascribed to specific age intervals and whether the proposed differences between the sexes are as great as previously suggested. To conduct this study we utilized two large early 20th century skeletal collections known as Terry and Bass (n = 181). We also utilized data from two lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging samples as a modern-day reference (n = 497). Age, sex and ethnicity of all individuals were known. Vertebral CSA was determined by measuring three width and length dimensions from the corpus of the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4). Our results indicate only a moderate association between age and vertebral CSA. This association was observed to be relatively similar in both sexes, and we thus conclude that there is no clear sex-specific compensatory mechanism for age-related bone loss in vertebral size.

Radiological Evaluation of the Line Between the Crista Iliaca (Tuffier's line) in Elderly Patients.

Tuffier's line is defined as the line connecting the highest points of both iliac crests, which generally passes through either the body of the fourth lumbar vertebra or the intervertebral space between fourth and fifth vertebrae. In this study, we assessed the radiological correlation of the level of Tuffier's line with changes in age and sex. In this study, antero-posterior pelvic X-rays of 590 patients aged 18 and older were retrospectively analyzed. It is revealed that Tuffier's line crosses the vertebral column at one of three levels, which are the L4 vertebral body, L4-L5 vertebral interspace and L5 vertebral body. Patients' sex, age and vertebral level of the Tuffier's line were recorded. Data was analyzed using the chi-square test. The assessment of the X-rays of 317 female patients showed that Tuffier's Line passes through the L4 vertebral body in 115 (37.8%), through the L4-L5 intervertebral space in 126 (40%) and through the L5 vertebral body in 76 (22.2%) patients. A Tuffier's line passing through the level of the L5 vertebral body was found to be statistically significant in female patients (p=0.00). No significant relevance was found between male gender and the level of Tuffier's line in 273 male patients. It is found that the height of the vertebral levels that Tuffier's line crosses does not correlate with mean age of the groups (p=0.939). It should be considered that Tuffier's line can cross at vertebral levels other than anticipated. The level of Tuffier's line should be precisely determined with supplementary radiological methods, such as AP pelvic X-ray in addition to physical examination, to reduce the complications in association with regional anaeshesia and to achieve sensorial block levels sufficient to sustain a comfortable surgery, particularly in female patients who carry higher cardiac and respiratory risks.

Corticospinal tract development and spinal cord innervation differ between cervical and lumbar targets.

The corticospinal (CS) tract is essential for voluntary movement, but what we know about the organization and development of the CS tract remains limited. To determine the total cortical area innervating the seventh cervical spinal cord segment (C7), which controls forelimb movement, we injected a retrograde tracer (fluorescent microspheres) into C7 such that it would spread widely within the unilateral gray matter (to >80%), but not to the CS tract. Subsequent detection of the tracer showed that, in both juvenile and adult mice, neurons distributed over an unexpectedly broad portion of the rostral two-thirds of the cerebral cortex converge to C7. This even included cortical areas controlling the hindlimbs (the fourth lumbar segment, L4). With aging, cell densities greatly declined, mainly due to axon branch elimination. Whole-cell recordings from spinal cord cells upon selective optogenetic stimulation of CS axons, and labeling of axons (DsRed) and presynaptic structures (synaptophysin) through cotransfection using exo utero electroporation, showed that overgrowing CS axons make synaptic connections with spinal cells in juveniles. This suggests that neuronal circuits involved in the CS tract to C7 are largely reorganized during development. By contrast, the cortical areas innervating L4 are limited to the conventional hindlimb area, and the cell distribution and density do not change during development. These findings call for an update of the traditional notion of somatotopic CS projection and imply that there are substantial developmental differences in the cortical control of forelimb and hindlimb movements, at least in rodents.

Dorsolumbar Epidural Analgesia in Water Buffalo: Anaesthetic Assessment and Anatomical Studies

Anesthesia of the flank region of ten native buffaloes was accomplished through the dorsolumber epidural technique by using two different doses (4ml and 5ml) from anesthetic mixture containing xylazine hydrochloride (2%) and lidocaine hydrochloride (2%). Computed tomography and gross dissection were done for the thoraco-lumber region to show the special structures in this area. The results showed that, the anaesthetized area and the duration of analgesia in both sides of the flank region were wider and more prolonged at dose 5 ml than at 4 ml from the mixture. The CT showed that the epidural space at the lumbar region is enlarged and the widest part found at the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae. There is no inter-arcuate space between the last two thoracic vertebrae while the space was found between the last thoracic and the first lumbar vertebrae and continues between all lumbar vertebrae. Grossly, the last thoracic and first lumbar spinal nerve rootlets are nearly centered on the intervertebral discs between the last thoracic and the first lumbar vertebrae and between the first and the second lumbar vertebrae respectively. The second, the third, the fourth and the fifth lumbar spinal nerve rootlets are displaced cranially to extent, which the rootlets of the second and third lumbar spinal nerves are nearly located in the caudal portion of the canal of the second and third lumbar vertebrae respectively. Furthermore, the fourth lumbar spinal nerve rootlets are nearly located in the central part of the canal of the fourth lumbar vertebra, while the fifth lumbar spinal nerve rootlets appeared in the cranial portion of the canal of the fifth lumbar vertebra. The study illustrated that dorsolumber epidural anesthesia was easy to perform in buffaloes and consume low dose from anesthetic drug which save cost, time and effort. Moreover, adding of xylazine hydrochloride to the local anesthetic will promote its anesthetic properties in addition to the sedative effect needed in such conditions.

Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors Mediate the Suppressive Effect of an Injection of Diluted Bee Venom into the GV3 Acupoint on Oxaliplatin-Induced Neuropathic Cold Allodynia in Rats.

Oxaliplatin, a platinum-based chemotherapy drug, often induces acute neuropathic pain, especially cold allodynia, even after a single administration. Subcutaneous injection of diluted bee venom (BV) into acupoints has been used to treat various pain symptoms in traditional oriental medicine. Although we previously demonstrated the suppressive effect of BV injection on oxaliplatin-induced cold allodynia in rats, its neurochemical mechanism remained unclear. This study investigates whether and how the cholinergic system mediates the relieving effect of BV injection on cold allodynia in oxaliplatin-administered rats. The behavioral signs of cold allodynia induced by an oxaliplatin administration (6 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)) were evaluated by a tail immersion test in cold water (4°C). BV (0.25 mg/kg, subcutaneously (s.c.)) injection into the Yaoyangguan acupoint, located between the spinous processes of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, significantly alleviated the cold allodynia. This relieving effect of BV injection on oxaliplatin-induced cold allodynia was blocked by a pretreatment with mecamylamine (a non-selective nicotinic receptor antagonist, 2 mg/kg, i.p.), but not by atropine (a non-selective muscarinic receptor antagonist, 1 mg/kg, i.p.). Further, dihydro-β-erythroidinehydrobromide (DHβE, an α4β2 nicotinic antagonist, 5 mg/kg, i.p.) prevented the anti-allodynic effect of BV, whereas methyllycaconitine (an α7 nicotinic antagonist, 6 mg/kg, i.p.) did not. Finally, intrathecal administration of DHβE (10 nM) blocked the BV-induced anti-allodynic effect. These results suggest that nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, especially spinal α4β2 receptors, but not muscarinic receptors, mediate the suppressive effect of BV injection on oxaliplatin-induced acute cold allodynia in rats.