Intervertebral Space Height Research Articles

Different interbody fustion cages and combined fixation through intermuscular approach for lumbar diseases:a case control study

To explore the clinical effect of combined fixation and interbody bone grafting through intermuscular approach with different fusion cages in the treatment of single segment lumbar diseases. From June 2014 to December 2016, the clinical data of 123 cases of single segment lumbar diseases were analyzed retrospectively, including 44 males and 79 females, aged 22 to 60 years old, with the diseases course of 6 to 84 months. The disease types involved lumbar disc degeneration in 65 cases, lumbar spinal stenosis in 30 cases, MeyerdingⅠslip in 21 cases, giant lumbar disc herniation in 7 cases. Lesions was L3, 4 in 5 cases, L4, 5 in 101 cases, L5S1 in 17 cases. According to the application of different interbody fusion cage, patients were divided into single common cage group, double common cage group and banana type cage group. The operation time, intraoperative hemorrhage, postoperative incision drainage fluid and incision length were observed in three groups; VAS score of lumbar incision and JOA score of preoperative and final follow up were recorded 72 hours after operation;the intervertebral space height, Cobb angle of lumbar coronal and sagittal plane before and after operation, and interbody fusion 12 months after operation were observed by imaging data. There was no significant difference in incision length, operation time, intraoperative bleeding volume, postoperative drainage volume and VAS score of lumbar incision 72 hours after operation among three groups (P>0.05). All cases were followed up for 12 to 36 (23.70±4.52) months. The height of intervertebral space in three groups recovered significantly (P<0.05), at the last follow-up, there were different degrees of loss, the loss degree of single common fusion cage group>banana type fusion cage group>double common fusion cage group. At the last follow-up, the Cobb angle in the coronaland sagittal planes of the three groups were significantly improved (P<0.05). During the follow-up, there were 42 cases of fusion cage subsidence, including 26 cases in the single common cage group, 5 cases in the double common cage group, 11 cases in the banana cage group, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). At 12 months after operation, the interbody fusion rate was 83% in the single common cage group, 95% in the double common cage group and 90% in the banana cage group, the interbody fusion rate in the two common cage group and the banana cage group was better than that in the single common cage group. No obvious degeneration was observed in the adjacent segments. At the last follow-up, the JOA scores of the three groups were statistically significant (P<0.05). The incidence of single common fusion cage group was 10%(4 / 42), that of double common fusion cage group was 9%(4 / 43), and that of banana fusion cage group was 10%(4 / 39). There was no significant difference among the three groups. Through the intermuscular approach, single pedicle screw and contralateral facet screw were used for fixation, and single common fusion cage, double common fusion cage or banana type fusion cage were used for interbody grafting to treat single segment lumbar disease. Although the application of different fusion cage could not increase the axial strength of fixed segment, the speed of fusion was accelerated by increasing the contact area, and the quality of the fusion cage reduces the settlement of the cage and the loss of the height of the intervertebral space. Therefore, two interbody fusion cages implanted in one side are of positive clinical significance for the fixation of unilateral pedicle screw combined with contralateral facet screw, without prolonging the operation time and increasing the complications.

Application of oblique lumbar interbody fusion for lumbar intervertebral pyogenic infection

Objective To investigate the safety, key techniques and clinical efficacy of OLIF (oblique lumbar interbody fusion) corridor combined with lumbar intervertebral debridement, fusion with two interbody and internal fixation for the treatment of single-level lumbar pyogenic spondylodiscitis. Methods From February 2016 to March 2017, data of 12 patients with single-level lumbar intervertebral pyogenic infection diagnosed in our hospital who had undergone oblique lumbar interbody fusion with two interbody and posterior pedicle screw fixation via Wiltse approach were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, there were 10 males and 2 females, aged from 49 to 79 years, with an average age of 65.4±9.5 years. The white blood cells (WBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were recorded and analyzed before operation and at the last follow-up. Lumbar pain was assessed by visual analogue acale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and clinical efficacy was assessed by the MOS 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) and Kirkaldy-Willis criteria. The hospitalization time, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, pathological reports, etiological results and complications were recorded. Disc height (DH), segmental angle (SA) and Lumbar Lordosis (LL) were measured before operation and at the last follow-up. The fusion time was recorded. Paired t-test and ANOVA was used for data analysis. Results All patients underwent surgery successfully, including 6 cases using two titanium meshes and 6 cases using two autologous tricortical iliac bones. Pathogenic culture was positive in 10 cases, with a positive rate of 83.3%, including 4 cases of streptococcus, 4 cases of Staphylococcus aureus, 1 case of Escherichia coli, and 1 case of Klebsiella pneumoniae. All patients were followed up for 16.1±5.1 months. At the last follow-up, WBC ([6.25±2.02] ×109/L) was lower than that before operation ([4.89±1.28] ×109/L), CRP (preoperation 58.73±52.56 mg/L vs postoperation 8.48±8.79 mg/L) and ESR (preoperation 51.88±19.04 mm/1 h vs postoperation 9.25±5.50 mm/1 h) were significantly lower (P< 0.01). The VAS score was preoperation 6.67±1.63 and postoperation 1.50±0.55, ODI score was preoperation 72.57%±3.41% and postoperation 18.00%±2.31%, and both were significantly lower postoperatively (P < 0.01). SF-36 score (preoperation 56.33±4.93 vs postoperation 73.73±5.86) was significantly higher (P< 0.01) respectively. The postoperative height of intervertebral space ([11.68±2.64] mm) was significantly higher than that before operation ([5.18±1.58] mm). The disc height at the last follow-up was (11.22±2.25) mm, and the loss rate was 1.89% compared with that of the immediate postoperatively; The postoperative lumbar lordosis angle (32.89°±14.52°) was significantly increased compared with that of the preoperative (24.16°±13.49°), and maintained well at the last follow-up (32.27°± 14.21°); The postoperative segmental angle (10.8°±8.51°) was significantly increased compared with that of the preoperative (5.81°±7.44°), and maintained well at the last follow-up (9.94°±7.87°). The fusion time ranged from 6 to 16 months, with an average of 9.2±3.5 months. The clinical efficacy was excellent in 10 cases (83.3%) and good in 2 cases (16.7%). The excellent and good rate was 100%. One case of pulmonary infection and pulmonary embolism occurred 2 days after operation, and recovered after use of antibiotics and anticoagulation treatment in ICU; one case of intramuscular venous thrombosis was found 1 day after operation, and recovered after anticoagulation treatment; no loosening of internal fixation was found, and no complications related to OLIF corridor occurred. Conclusion The treatment of single-level lumbar intervertebral pyogenic infection with OLIF corridor combined with lumbar intervertebral debridement, fusion with two interbody and internal fixation has the advantages of less blood loss, shorter operation time, more direct clearance of intervertebral space and left paravertebral focus, no disturbance of intraspinal canal and posterior structure, higher positive rate of etiology detection, shorter bedrest time and better restore of disc height and lumbar lordosis after operation. What’s more, the fusion rate is high and the clinical efficacy is satisfactory. Key words: Lumbar vertebrae; Infection; Spinal fusion

Unilateral Laminectomy by Endoscopy in Central Lumbar Canal Spinal Stenosis: Technical Note and Early Outcomes.

Retrospective study. To evaluate the outcomes and safety of endoscopic laminectomy for central lumbar canal spinal stenosis. .: Spinal endoscopy is mostly used in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation, while endoscopic laminectomy for lumbar spinal stenosis is rarely reported. From January 2016 to June 2017, 38 patients with central lumbar canal spinal stenosis were treated with endoscopic laminectomy. Clinical symptoms were evaluated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months and the last follow-up after surgery. Functional outcomes were assessed by using the Japanese Orthopedic Association Scores (JOA) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The decompression effect was assessed by using the dural sac cross-sectional area (DSCA). Lumbar stability was evaluated using lumbar range of motion (ROM), ventral intervertebral space height (VH), and dorsal intervertebral space height (DH). The mean age of the cases was 60.8 years, the mean operation time was 66.3 minutes, the blood loss was 38.8 mL, and the length of incision was 19.6 mm. The mean time in bed was 22.3 hours, and the mean hospital stay was 8.8 days. JOA scores were improved from 10.9 to 24.1 (P < 0.05), ODI scores were improved from 79.0 to 27.9 (P < 0.05), DSCA was improved from 55.7 to 109.5 mm (P < 0.05), ROM scores were improved from 5.6° to 5.7° (P < 0.05), and DH scores were reduced from 6.6 to 6.5 mm (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in VH before and after operation (P > 0.05). There were no serious complications during the follow-ups. Endoscopic laminectomy had the advantage of a wider view, which was effective, safe, and less invasive for lumbar spinal stenosis. 5.

Clinical efficacy of Bone Cement-injectable Cannulated Pedicle Screw Short Segment Fixation for Lumbar Spondylolisthesis with Osteoporosise

Many clinical studies have shown a satisfactory clinical efficacy using bone cement-augmented pedicle screw in osteoporotic spine, however, few studies have involved the application of this type of screw in lumbar spondylolisthesis. This study aims to investigate the mid-term clinical outcome of bone cement-injectable cannulated pedicle screw (CICPS) in lumbar spondylolisthesis with osteoporosis. From 2011 to 2015, twenty-three patients with transforminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) using CICPS for lumbar spondylolisthesis were enrolled in the study. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used to evaluate faunctional recovery and physical pain; and operation time, blood loss and hospitalization time were recorded, respectively. Radiograph and computed tomography of lumbar spine was performed to assess loss of the intervertebral disc space height, fixation loosening, and the rate of bony fusion. The average follow-up time of 23 patients was 22.5 ± 10.2 months (range, 6–36 months). According to VAS and ODI scores, postoperative pain sensation and activity function were significantly improved (p < 0.05). The height of the intervertebral disc space was reduced by 0.4 ± 1.1 mm, and the bone graft fusion rate was 100%. No cases of internal fixation loosening or screw pullout was observed. CICPS using cement augmentation may suggest as a feasible surgical technique in osteoporotic patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis.

One-stage posterior debridement combined with lumbar-ilium fixation and bone graft fusion for the treatment of lumbosacral tuberculosis

To investigate the clinical effect of One-stage posterior debridement combined with lumbar-ilium fixation and bone graft fusion for the treatment of lumbosacral tuberculosis. The clinical data of 31 patients with lumbosacral tuberculosis treated by one-stage posterior debridement combined with lumbar-ilium fixation and bone graft fusion from January 2013 to February 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 18 males and 13 females, aged from 18 to 77 years old with an average of (45.9±9.1) years. The lesion segment was form L4 to S2. The preoperative ASIA grading showed that 2 cases were grade B, 17 cases were grade C, 12 were grade D. Pre- and post-operative C reactive protein (CRP), visual analogue scale (VAS), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), ASIA grade, lumbosacral angle and intervertebral space height were analyzed, the surgery complications, stability of internal fixation, bone fusion were observed. All the 31 patients were followed up for 10 to 24 months with an average of (16.0±3.1) months. One patient with local infection and subcutaneous hydrops was cured by dressing change. Other 30 cases got primary healing without sinus formation and no recurrence of spinal tuberculosis. All the patients were cured, no internal fixation loosening and breakage were found. All bone fusion was successful with an average fusion time of (4.7±1.1) months. At the final follow-up, ESR and CRP were normal, the VAS was decreased from (6.13±1.21) points preoperatively to (1.92±0.57) pioints, the ASIA grading showed that 2 cases were grade C, 6 cases were grade D, and 23 cases were grade E. The lumbosacral angle and intervertebral space height was increased from preoperative (21.42±3.75) °, (7.84±0.41) mm to (27.21±3.12) °, (9.80±0.38) mm at the final follow-up, respectively. One-stage posterior debridement combined with lumbar-ilium fixation and bone graft fusion is a practicable, effective and safe method for the treatment of lumbosacral tuberculosis. It can be recommended in clinical application.

Study on the correlation between the arc height of cervical endplate and osteophyte in posterior margin of intervertebral space

To study the correlation and clinical value of the arc height of upper and lower endplates, the height of intervertebral space and osteophyte of posterior edge of intervertebral space in patients with cervical spondylosis. A total of 108 patients with cervical spondylosis who underwent cervical spondylosis surgery from September 2017 to September 2018 were included in the study. Including 48 males with an average age of 52 years (30 to 72) and 60 females with an average age of 54 years (37 to 79). Among them, C2,3 of 6 cases, C3,4 of 15 cases, C4,5 of 32 cases, C5,6 of 42 cases, C6,7 of 13 cases. X-ray films of cervical spine were taken before and after operation. The images were accessed by PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) system. The lower and upper endplate arc heights (L1, L2), intervertebral space height (L3), and posterior osteophyte width (L4) were measured. Spearman was used to analyze the correlation between them. L1 was negatively correlated with L4 (r=-0.34, P<0.05), L3 was negatively correlated with L4 (r=-0.36, P<0.05). L1 was positively correlated with L3 (r=0.38, P<0.05), L2 was positively correlated with L3 (r=0.48, P<0.05). There was no significant difference between L 1 and L2 (P>0.05), L2 and L4 (P>0.05). The arc height of the lower endplate is negatively correlated with the width of osteophyte in the posterior margin of the intervertebral space. The cervical degeneration degree can be determined by measuring the arc height of the lower endplate, which has guiding significance for the early prevention and treatment of cervical spondylosis.

A modified procedure of single-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion reduces immediate post-operative symptoms: a prospective case-controlled study based on two hundred and four cases.

This is a prospective case-controlled study. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of a modified transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) on the immediate post-operative symptoms in patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH) accompanied with stenosis. A total of 204 LDH patients with single-level TLIF were enrolled. According to the sequence of the placement of rods and cage, patients were divided into group R (rod-prior-to-cage) and group C (cage-prior-to-rod). Neurological function was evaluated by the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score. Radiological assessment includes height of intervertebral space (HIS), foraminal height (FH), foraminal area (FA), and segmental lordosis (SL). Change of original symptoms (pain/numb) and new-onset symptoms (pain/numb) after surgery were also recorded. Patients in group R had less change of HIS at L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S1 levels compared with pre-operation (all p > 0.05), whereas group C had larger change (all p < 0.05). No statistical difference was found in FH between the two groups before and after surgery at L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S1, respectively (all p > 0.05). In terms of FA, patients in group R had better improvement after surgery than those in group C at L3/4 and L4/5 (both p < 0.05). Patients in both groups acquired good improvement of neurological function. However, there were fewer patients in group R who experienced post-operative leg pain or numb compared with those in group C (p < 0.05). The modified open TLIF can significantly reduce the incidence of immediate post-operative symptoms for patients with single-level lumbar disc herniation via installation of rods prior to insertion of cage and the "neural standard" should serve as the goal of decompression for spine surgeons to restore disc/foraminal height and to minimize nerve distraction.

Risk Factors for Recurrent L5-S1 Disc Herniation After Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Discectomy: A Retrospective Study.

BackgroundThis retrospective study aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with the recurrence of L5–S1 disc herniation after percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy (PETD).Material/MethodsThere were 484 patients L5–S1 disc herniation who underwent PETD who were divided into the recurrence group (n=46) and the non-recurrence group (n=438). Transforaminal endoscopic approaches included modifications of the Yeung endoscopy spine system (YESS) (the intraforaminal intradiscal approach) and the transforaminal endoscopic spine system (TESSYS) (intraforaminal extradiscal approach). Demographic and clinical characteristics and imaging data were analyzed. The two study groups were compared to determine the factors associated with the recurrence of L5–S1 disc herniation. The patients underwent postoperative follow-up for between one and four years.ResultsAt follow-up, 9.504% of patients (46/484) with the recurrence of L5–S1 disc herniation following PETD when compared with the non-recurrence group showed no significant difference for time to return to work, gender, history of diabetes mellitus, trauma, duration of symptoms, smoking and alcohol history, hypertension, location of disc herniation, transverse process length, intervertebral space height, and pelvic incidence angle (P>0.05). However, age, body mass index (BMI), the degree of disc degeneration, sagittal range of motion, lumbar lordosis angle, and sacral slope were significantly associated with the recurrence of L5–S1 disc herniation following PETD (P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis supported these main associations.ConclusionsThe recurrence of L5–S1 disc herniation following PETD was significantly associated with increased age and BMI, more severe disc degeneration, increased sagittal range of motion, increased lumbar lordosis, and sacral slope.

Posterolateral fusion combined with posterior decompression shows superiority in the treatment of severe lumbar spinal stenosis without lumbar disc protrusion or prolapse: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundCurrently, discectomy and posterior decompression combined with lumbar circumferential fusion (CF) have been accepted as a major procedure for severe lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). However, studies on severe LSS without protruded intervertebral disc to minimize study bias are lacking. We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of sole posterior decompression with lumbar posterolateral fusion (PLF) and the necessity of discectomy and CF in patients with severe LSS without lumbar disc protrusion or prolapse.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 153 severe LSS patients without lumbar disc protrusion or prolapse who were admitted in a tertiary spine center with at least a 2-year follow-up between January 2014 and August 2017. Patients were divided into the PLF (n = 77; those who underwent posterior decompression with PLF in 1–3 segments) or CF (n = 76; those who underwent posterior decompression and discectomy with CF in 1–3 segments) groups. Pedicle screw instrumentation was applied to avoid postoperative instability. Clinical outcomes were assessed by visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Japanese Orthopedic Association Score (JOA, lumbar pain score). Duration of operation, blood loss, surgical cost, and postoperative complications were analyzed. Height of intervertebral space, lumbar lordosis, and bone union were confirmed by lumbar radiography or computed tomography.ResultsBoth groups achieved significant improvement in JOA, ODI, and VAS compared with preoperative values (P < 0.001), but without significant difference between the two groups. Both groups achieved high fusion rate without difference and correction of lumbar lordosis and intervertebral space height (P < 0.001), especially in the CF group (P < 0.05). Duration of operation, blood loss, and operation cost were significantly higher in the CF group than in the PLF group (P < 0.001). Eight complications were found in both groups (1, PLF group; 7, CF group; P < 0.05).ConclusionsAfter posterior decompression, PLF successfully achieves bony fusion and symptom relief with lower complication rate, lesser surgical blood loss, shorter operative time, and lesser cost than CF. Thus, sole posterior decompression with PLF is an effective treatment for severe LSS without lumbar disc protrusion or prolapse.

Analysis of clinical efficacy of endo-LIF in the treatment of single-segment lumbar degenerative diseases

An innovative concept was proposed to treat the lumbar degenerative diseases with full-endoscopic translaminar lumbar interbody fusion (Endo-TLIF) and the efficacy was evaluated. A total of 44 patients from January 2017 to October 2018 were enrolled, including 20 patients undergoing full-endoscopic TLIF and 24 patients undergoing standard open TLIF. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, Oswestry Dability Index (ODI) and intervertebral fusion were observed in both groups at the last follow-up. The height and width of intervertebral foramen and height of intervertebral space were evaluated via imaging. Mean follow-up time for all patients 13.2 ± 3.2 months. The average operation time was 184.3 ± 70.6 min in experimental group and 191.1 ± 32.4 min in control group. The amount of bleeding was 38.5 ± 19.5 mL and 214.6 ± 61.6 mL. The VAS score was 4.9 ± 1.0 points in experimental group and 4.8 ± 1.0 points in control group before operation, and 0.8 ± 0.6 points and 0.8 ± 0.7 points at the last follow-up. The ODI was 83.5 ± 7.8% and 87.8 ± 5.9% before operation, and 9.9 ± 3.6% and 9.3 ± 3.7% at the last follow-up. The height and width of intervertebral foramen and height of intervertebral space in both groups were significantly improved (p < 0.05). The fusion rate at the last follow-up were 95% (19 cases) in experimental group and 92% (22 cases) in control group. Full-endoscopic TLIF is feasible in the treatment of single-segment lumbar degenerative diseases, which is characterized by small trauma, quick recovery and low cost. However, the large-sample long-term follow-up is needed to further evaluate its clinical efficacy and safety.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion plus plating for unstable Hangman's fractures

Objective To investigate the clinical effectiveness of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)plus plating in the treatment of unstable Hangman's fractures. Methods A retrospective case series study was carried out to analyze 12 patients who received ACDF plus plate internal fixation for unstable Hangman's fracture admitted to Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang University School of Medicine from July 2014 to July 2018. There were nine males and three females, aged 24-70 years with an average of 46.2 years. According to Levine-Edwards typing, there were seven patients of type Ⅱ, four patients of type Ⅱ A and one patient of type Ⅲ. There were two patients of grade D and 10 patients of grade E according to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) classification. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss and the operational complications were recorded. At 3 days, 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after operation, the height of intervertebral disc, physiological curvature of cervical spine, fracture healing and bone graft fusion were evaluated. The recovery of neurological function was assessed by ASIA, and the neck pain relief and function improvement was assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) and the neck disability index (NDI). Results All patients were followed for 6-48 months(mean, 27.7 months). The operation time ranged from 50-100 minutes, with an average of 72.5 minutes. The intraoperative blood loss was 30-120 ml (mean, 65.8 ml). No serious complications occurred during and after operation. Two patients had dysphagia after operation, and the symptoms were relieved at the follow-up of 3 months. All patients achieved bony fusion of C2-3 within the 6 month follow-up. No subsidence or migration of cages and significant loss of intervertebral space height were observed. The patient's neck and occipital pain was relieved obviously, and the flexion, extension and rotation of cervical spine were good. The neurologic dysfunction of two patients of ASIA Grade D recovered after surgery, and the final ASIA grade was E. The VAS score was decreased from 5.0 (4.0, 6.0)points preoperatively to 1.0(0, 1.0)points at the last follow-up (P<0.01). The NDI score was improved from (28.5±6.4)points preoperatively to (5.3±2.7)points at the last follow-up (P<0.01). Conclusion ACDF combined with plate internal fixation can provide immediate postoperative stability, high fusion rate, less complications, less pain, and satisfactory function recovery. Key words: Axis; Decompression, surgical; Fracture fixation, internal; Hangman's fracture

Comparison of intervertebral fusion rates of different bone graft materials in extreme lateral interbody fusion.

To compare imaging indicators and clinical effects of extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) using allogenic bone, autologous bone marrow + allogenic bone, and rhBMP-2 + allogenic bone as bone graft materials in the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases.This was a retrospective study of 93 patients with lumbar interbody fusion who underwent the extreme lateral approach from May 2016 to December 2017. According to the different bone graft materials, patients were divided into allogenic bone groups (group A, 31 cases), rhBMP-2 + allogenic bone (group B, 32 cases), and autologous bone marrow + allogenic bone (group C, 30 cases). There were no significant differences in gender, age, lesion segment, preoperative intervertebral space height, and preoperative Oswestry Dysfunction Index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores among the 3 groups (P > .05). Intervertebral space height, bone graft fusion rate, and ODI and VAS scores were compared immediately after surgery, and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery.All groups were followed up for 12 months. The intervertebral space height was significantly higher in the 3 groups immediately after surgery and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, in comparison to before surgery (P < .05). There was no significant difference in the intervertebral space height among the 3 groups immediately after surgery and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery (P > .05). The fusion rate of group B and C was higher than that of groups A at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery (P < .05). In the 3 groups, the VAS and ODI scores at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery were significantly improved compared with the preoperative scores (P < .05). The VAS and ODI scores in groups B and C were significantly higher than those in group A (P < .05), but there was no significant difference between groups B and C (P > .05).The rhBMP-2 + allograft bone combination had good clinical effects and high fusion rate in XLIF.

A ball-slide-type interbody distractor is effective in posterior reduction and internal fixation for patients with mid- to high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis enrolled in a randomized clinical trial

Study Design:Clinical and radiographic results of a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trialObjective:To investigate the clinical applicability of a ball-point slide-type interbody distractor in posterior reduction and internal fixation for mid- to high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis.Summary of Background Data:Posterior reduction and internal fixation is the effective treatment for spondylolisthesis. However, for the mid and high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis patients with the conditions of vertebral osteoporosis and extremely narrow intervertebral space, the reduction is difficult; post-surgery intervertebral space height lost becomes serious; the fracture and loosening rate of fixation system is higher. No study regarding the prevention of these adverse outcomes in this technique is reported.Methods:A total of 59 patients of mid and high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis were randomly divided into random groups (investigational group and control group) applying simple randomized method in this study. In addition, 30 patients received posterior reduction and internal fixation as control. Twenty-nine patients received posterior reduction and internal fixation by ball-point slide-type interbody distractor were assigned to the investigational group. X-ray examination was performed before and after operation. The degree of reduction, height of intervertebral space were compared. The preoperative and postoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were evaluated. Additionally, rate of the fixation system fracture was also assessed.Results:Before treatment, there were no significant differences in ISH (P = .72), DR (P = .85), VAS of back pain (P = .55), VAS of leg pain (P = .83) and ODI (P = .68) were found between 2 groups. After 12-month treatment, there were no significant differences in ISH (P = .26), VAS of back pain (P = .09) and VAS of leg pain (P = .96) between two groups. Significant differences of DR (P = .02), ODI (P = .03) and adverse events (P = .00) were found between 2 groups.Conclusions:The results of this prospectively study showed that the ball-point slide-type interbody distractor in the posterior reduction and internal fixation produced good outcomes after 12-month treatment. More high quality randomized controlled trials and cases should still be needed to warrant the results of this study.

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

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

Early efficacy of endoscopic laminectomy and traditional hemilaminectomy for lumbar spinal stenosis

Objective To compare the clinical effects of endoscopic laminectomy with traditional hemilaminectomy for lumbar spinal stenosis. Methods From January 2016 to April 2017, 61 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis were treated surgi-cally. Percutaneous endoscopic laminectomy was performed in 32 patients (minimally invasive group), including 13 males and 19 females, aged 38-76 years, with an average age of 58.47±7.51 years. Twenty-nine patients (open group) underwent hemilaminecto-my, including 11 males and 18 females, aged 38-75 years, with an average age of 57.17±9.99 years. The operation time, bleeding, incision length, bedridden time and hospitalization time were recorded. Visual analogue scale(VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), dural sac cross-sectional area (DSCA), ventral intervertebral space height (VH), dorsal intervertebral space height (DH) and lumbar mobility (range of motion, ROM) were compared between the two groups. Results All of 61 patients were followed up for 14 to 27 months, with an average of 19.2±2.95 months. The operation time was 60.88±6.49 min in the minimally invasive group, and 52.07±9.45 min in the open group (t=4.277, P=0.000). The blood loss of minimally invasive group was 55.63±10.14 ml, and that of open group was 78.79±12.58 ml (t=7.952, P=0.000). The incision length of minimally invasive group was 23.31±4.56 mm, and open group 82.59±7.66 mm (t=12.047, P=0.000). Bed rest time was 21.97±6.42 h in minimally invasive group and 78.79±12.58 h in open group (t=12.047, P=0.000). The hospitalization time of the minimally invasive group was 8.53±2.75 d and the open group 11.34±3.12 d (t=3.745, P=0.000). All these parameters had statistical significance (P<0.05). At the last follow-up, the VAS score of minimally invasive group was 1.06±0.56, and the open group was 1.14±0.74 (t=0.469, P=0.634). ROM of open group was 5.66±1.12 degree, and ROM of minimally invasive group was 5.56±1.13 degree (t=0.140, P=0.710), VH of minimally invasive group was 14.75±2.81 mm, and open group was 14.44±2.89 mm (t=0.181, P=0.672). There was no significant difference between the two groups for these parameters. At the last follow-up, ODI score was 13.25%±1.08% in the minimally invasive group and 14.28%±2.10% in open group (t=5.911, P=0.018). DSCA score was 108.56±8.69 mm2 in the minimally invasive group, and 117.28±11.09 mm2 in open group (t=11.774, P=0.001). There were significant differences between the two groups for ODI and DS-CA. Conclusion Both endoscopic and open laminectomy have excellent clinical effects on lumbar spinal stenosis. Endoscop-ic laminectomy has the advantages of less local trauma, less damage to the stability of the lumbar spine and faster recovery. However, there's a higher technical requirement for endoscopic spine surgery. Key words: Lumbar vertebrae; Spinal stenosis; Laminectomy; Video-assisted surgery; Surgical procedures, minimally in-vasive

Vertebral Growth Around Distal Instrumented Vertebra in Patients With Early-Onset Scoliosis Who Underwent Traditional Dual Growing Rod Treatment.

Retrospective radiographic study. To investigate the growth of the vertebrae around distal instrumented vertebra (DIV) in patients with early-onset scoliosis (EOS) who underwent dual growing rod (DGR) treatment. Previous studies indicated that DGR was likely to preserve or even stimulate the spinal growth. However, report pertaining to the effect of growing rod on the growth of individual vertebral body is rare. The EOS patients treated with DGR who had at least four lengthenings and 5-year follow-up were enrolled. Spine radiographs at index surgery and final follow-up were reviewed. The height, width, and depth of vertebral body from DIV-2 to DIV+2, and the height of the adjacent intervertebral space (IVS) were measured. The percentage of growth was calculated. Thirty-one patients (mean age, 6.2 ± 2.5 years old) met the inclusion criteria, 74.2% (23/31) of whom were female. The average follow-up was 6.2 years (range, 5.0-10.4 yr). The measured vertebrae were divided into DIV group (n = 65), DIV- group (DIV-1 and DIV-2, n = 60), and DIV+ group (DIV+1 and DIV+2, n = 47). There were 33, 90, and 78 measured IVSs in DIV, DIV-, and DIV+ group, respectively. The total percentage growth of vertebral height was significantly higher in DIV- group than that in DIV and DIV+ groups (56.6 ± 20.3% vs. 45.6 ± 18.0% and 42.7 ± 16.2%, respectively, P ≤ 0.001). The vertebrae in DIV- group also had the highest annual height growth rate (8.7 ± 2.6% vs. 7.0 ± 2.4% and 6.6 ± 2.0%, respectively, P ≤ 0.001). A significant decrease of IVS height was observed in DIV- and DIV groups (P ≤ 0.001). Traditional DGR with periodical distraction stimulated the longitudinal growth of the two segments immediately above DIV in patients with EOS. DGR technique had a negative effect on the development of intervertebral discs within distracted levels. 3.

Treatment of grade I and II degree degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis with minimally invasive surgery-transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion under Quadrant channel

To investigate the advantages of minimally invasive surgery-transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion(MIS-TLIF) under Quadrant channel in the treatment of grade I and II degree degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. The clinical data of 100 patients with grade I and II degree degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis treated from March 2014 to March 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 50 patients were treated with MIS-TLIF, including 19 males and 31 females, aged from 44 to 73 years old with an average of (49.83±15.46) years old; course of disease from 6 months to 7 years with the mean of (22.18±4.74) months; L₄ slippage was in 30 cases and L₅ slippage was in 20 cases, the slippage vertebral pedicles were intact; according to Meyerding classification, 29 cases of I degree slip and 21 cases of II degree slip. Other 50 patients were treated with open-transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion(OPEN-TLIF), including 23 males and 27 females, aged from 40 to 77 years old with an average of(50.67±14.36) years old; course of disease from 6 months to 10 years with the mean of (20.56±5.37) months; L₄ slippage was in 33 cases and L₅ slippage was in 17 cases, the slippage vertebral pedicles were intact; according to Meyerding classification, 34 cases of I degree slip and 16 cases of II degree slip. The operation time, length of surgical incision, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage, and serum creatine kinase(CK-MM) levels before surgery and 1 day after surgery were observed. Visual analogue scale(VAS), Japanese Orthopedic Association Score (JOA), and Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI) were compared between the two groups before and after surgery. According to the imaging data, the slip rate, intervertebral space height and slip angle of the two groups before and 12 months (last follow-up) were compared. Intervertebral fusion was evaluated according to lumbar X-ray and CT at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. The clinical effect was evaluated according to the MacNab criteria at 12 months after surgery. All the patients were followed up for 12 months. In MIS-TLIF group, operation time, length of surgical incision, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage were (118.48±21.97) min, (3.74±0.74) cm, (148.78±32.32) ml, (84.85±16.37) ml, respectively, CK-MM level was (72.31±9.79) μ/L before surgery and (415.12±25.89) μ/L at the first day after surgery. In OPEN-TLIF group, operation time, length of surgical incision, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage were (115.40±11.94) min, (8.46±0.69) cm, (219.27±48.33) ml, (157.69±31.61) ml, respectively, CK-MM level was (75.48±10.73) μ/L before surgery and (506.69±37.86) μ/L at the first day after surgery. The intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage volume, length of surgical incision, and CK-MM level on the first postoperative day were lower in MIS-TLIF group than in OPEN-TLIF group(P<0.05), but the operation time and preoperative CK-MM levels were compared between two groups, the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). There were no significant differences in ODI, VAS, and JOA scores before surgery(P>0.05). The ODI, VAS, and JOA scores were significantly improved after surgery(P<0.05), and the scores of MIS-TLIF group were better than those of OPEN-TLIF group(P<0.05). At the last follow-up, the slip rate, slip angle and intervertebral space height were significantly improved in the same group(P<0.05), but there was no significant difference between two groups(P>0.05). There was no significant difference in intervertebral fusion between groups at 6 and 12 months after operation(P>0.05). According to the MacNab standard, 40 cases got excellent results, 7 good, 3 fair in MIS-TLIF group, and 35 cases got excellent results, 10 good, 5 fair in OPEN-TLIF group. One patient had incision exudation and delayed healing in MIS-TLIF group. And in OPEN-TLIF group, 1 patient had local muscle necrosis on the right side of L₅ and the bacterial culture of the secretions was negative in the different three times and the right internal fixation device was taken out after the second operation completely debridement, and finally obtained delayed healing. The MIS-TLIF under Quadrant channel has advantage of minimally invasive trauma, less bleeding, faster function recovery and better effect in surgical treatment of grade I and II degree degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Anterior Approach Microscopic Surgery for the Pincer Mechanism in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy.

Objective We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of anterior approach microscopic surgery for patients with the pincer mechanism in cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Methods The clinical data of pincer cervical spondylotic myelopathy that received anterior cervical decompression and fusion in our hospital from Aug 2014 to Dec 2017 were analyzed retrospectively, including 12 males and 9 females, with an average age of 64.3 years (range 46-81 years). Occupying rate, anterior occupying rate, and posterior occupying rate were measured on pre- and postoperative mid-sagittal MRIs. Pre- and postoperative Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores, intervertebral space height, and C2 to C7 Cobb's angle were analyzed. Result Duration of follow-up was six months. The pre- and postoperative anterior occupying rate were averagely 38.6±8.5% and 12.9±5.5%, respectively, the posterior occupying rates were averagely 27.4±7.2% and 13.1±6.6%, respectively, and Cobb's angle changed from 15.3±8.0° to 22.7±7.9°. The intervertebral space height increased from 4.6±0.4mm to 6.5±0.4mm. JOA scores improved significantly by 59.4±34.0% at six months after surgery. Conclusion Decompression by anterior microscopic surgery can increase spinal canal volume directly, recover intervertebral space height, and resize Cobb's angle, but decrease the posterior compression by ligament Flava indirectly. Anterior decompression under the microscope may provide an alternative surgical option for partial patients with the pincer mechanism in cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Computer-assisted virtual operation planning in anterior controllable anterior-displacement and fusion surgery for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament based on actual computed tomography data

ObjectivesTo investigate the effect of computer-assisted virtual operation planning (CAVOP) on anterior controllable anterior-displacement and fusion (ACAF) surgery for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). Patients and methodsA total of 25 patients with OPLL were enrolled in the study from September 2017 to December 2017. Preoperative Computed tomography (CT) scanning data were input into Mimics software to reconstruct three-dimensional (3D) models of actual cervical OPLL.Preoperative simulation of each surgical procedure and measurement of main parameters for intraoperative decision were conducted. Postoperative CT were used to test the clinical value of the preoperative planning. Width of vertebrae-OPLL complex (VOC), thickness of resected vertebral body (VB), height of intervertebral spacer, and length of screws and anterior plate were analyzed. ResultsThere were no significant differences between the length of screws, width of VOC, and thickness of anterior resection of vertebrae in preoperative CT and postoperative CT. Statistical differences were found between preoperative and postoperative height of intervertebral space and length of anterior plate. ConclusionA virtual ACAF surgical procedure for OPLL is feasible and useful clinically in surgical planning. It may provide a valuable tool for surgeons in formulating an appropriate surgical plan.

Biomechanical evaluation of single- and multi-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with polyetheretherketone cages: radiological and clinical outcomes.

The aim of this study was to analyse the outcomes of single- and multi-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with standalone polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages, with particular emphasis on the risk of secondary adjacent segment disease. This retrospective study included 30 patients with single- or multi-level cervical disc herniation. Before the ACDF, and one year thereafter, the patients underwent clinical and radiological evaluation including determination of cervical pain severity with a numerical rating scale (NRS), and a survey with a Polish adaptation of the neck disability index questionnaire (NDI-PL). Biomechanical parameters of the cervical spine were determined using the Cobb method. One year after ACDF, all patients had achieved complete fusions, and 97% showed a significant reduction of pain severity. Also, a significant decrease in all NDI-PL indices was observed. A significant decrease in overall cervical spine mobility coexisted with a significant increase in the mobility of the segment above the one operated upon and a non-significant decrease in the mobility of the segment below. No statistically significant change was found in the intervertebral disc space height (IVH) above and below the operated segment, and no evidence of degeneration within the segments adjacent to the operated one was documented. One- and two-level ACDF with standalone PEEK cages provided high fusion rates. Surgical spondylosis contributed to a reduction of spinal mobility despite the hypermobility in adjacent spinal segments. No degeneration in adjacent spinal segments was documented within a year of ACDF, and the treatment seemed to improve patients' quality of life.