L3 Level Research Articles

Adult Intradural Extramedullary Ewing’s Sarcoma of the Lumbar Spine and Involving the Intervertebral Foramen: A Case Report

Spinal intradural extramedullary Ewing’s sarcoma (IEES) is very rare. Here, we report an adult IEES located in the lumbar spine and involving the intervertebral foramen. A 45-year-old gentleman presented with a one-month history of low back pain. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) showed occupation of the spinal canal and right intervertebral foramen at L4-5 levels. He underwent total laminectomy and pedicle screw internal fixation.

Evaluation of the Reproducibility of MR Elastography Measurements of the Lumbar Back Muscles.

MR elastography (MRE) may provide quantitative imaging biomarkers of lumbar back muscles (LBMs), complementing MRI in spinal diseases by assessing muscle mechanical properties. However, reproducibility analyses for MRE of LBM are lacking. To assess technical failure, within-day and inter-day reproducibility, robustness with the excitation source positioning, and inter-observer agreement of MRE of muscles. Prospective. Seventeen healthy subjects (mean age 28 ± 4 years; 11 females). 1.5 T, gradient-echo MRE, T1-weighted turbo spin echo. The pneumatic driver was centered at L3 level. Four MRE were performed during two visits, 2-4 weeks apart, each consisting of two MRE with less than 10 minutes inter-scan interval. At Visit 1, after the first MRE, the coil and driver were removed, then reinstalled. The MRE was repeated. At Visit 2, following the first MRE, only the driver was moved down 5 cm. The MRE was repeated. Two radiologists segmented the multifidus and erector spinae muscles. Paired t-test, analysis of variance, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). P-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Mean stiffness of LBM ranged from 1.44 to 1.60 kPa. Mean technical failure rate was 2.5%. Inter-observer agreement was excellent (ICC ranging from 0.82 [0.64-0.96] to 0.99 [0.98-0.99] in the multifidus, and from 0.85 [0.69-0.92] to 0.99 [0.97-0.99] in the erector spinae muscles). Within-day reproducibility was fair in the multifidus (ICC: 0.53 [0.47-0.77]) and good in the erector spinae muscles (ICC: 0.74 [0.48-0.88]). Reproducibility after moving the driver was excellent in both multifidus (ICC: 0.85 [0.69-0.93]) and erector spinae muscles (ICC: 0.84 [0.67-0.92]). Inter-day reproducibility was excellent in the multifidus (ICC: 0.76 [0.48-0.89]) and poor in the erector spinae muscles (ICC: 0.23 [-0.61 to 0.63]). MRE of LBM provides measurements of stiffness with fair to excellent reproducibility and excellent inter-observer agreement. However, inter-day reproducibility in the multifidus muscles indicated that the herein used MRE protocol may not be optimal for this muscle. 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 1.

Computed tomography -defined sarcopenia is associated with long-term survival among patients undergoing open thoracic aortic reconstruction.

As markers of sarcopenia, psoas muscle areas and indexes measured from computed tomography images have been found to predict long-term mortality in cardiothoracic as well as other surgical cohorts. Our objective was to investigate the association between psoas muscle status, taking into account muscle density in addition to area, and survival among patients undergoing open thoracic aortic reconstruction. This was a retrospective registry study of a total of 451 patients treated with open surgery for thoracic aortic pathology. Psoas muscle area and density were measured from preoperative computed tomography images at the L3 and L4 lumbar levels. In addition, lean psoas muscle area was calculated by averaging sex-specific values of psoas muscle area and density. The association between mortality and psoas muscle status was analyzed with adjusted Cox-regression analysis. The median age of the study population was 63 (interquartile range (IQR): 53-70) years. The majority were male (74.7%, n = 337) and underwent elective procedures (58.1% n = 262). Surgery of the ascending aorta was carried out in 90% of the patients, and 15% (n = 67) had concomitant coronary artery bypass surgery. Aortic dissection was present in 34.6% (n = 156) patients. Median follow-up time was 4.3 years (IQR: 2.2-7.4). During the follow-up, 106 patients (23.5%) died, with 55.7% of deaths occurring within the first four postoperative weeks. Psoas muscle parameters were not associated with perioperative mortality, but significant independent associations with long-term mortality were observed for psoas muscle area, density, and lean psoas muscle area with hazard ratios (HRs) of 0.63 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.45-0.88), 0.62 (95% CI: 0.46-0.83), and 0.47 (95% CI: 0.32-0.69), respectively (all per 1-SD increase). Psoas muscle sarcopenia status is associated with long-term mortality after open thoracic aortic surgery.

Feasibility of using chest computed tomography (CT) imaging at the first lumbar vertebra (L1) level to assess skeletal muscle mass: a retrospective study

Background Skeletal muscle mass is an essential parameter for diagnosing sarcopenia. The gold standard for assessing skeletal muscle mass is using computed tomography (CT) to measure skeletal muscle area at the third lumbar vertebra (L3) level. This study aims to investigate whether skeletal muscle mass could be evaluated at the first lumbar vertebra (L1) level using images obtained from routine chest CT scans. Methods Skeletal muscle index (SMI, cm2/m2) and skeletal muscle density (SMD, HU) are commonly used to measure relative muscle mass and the degree of fat infiltration. This study used CT images at the L1 level to measure the skeletal muscle area (SMA, cm2) in 815 subjects from the health examination center. Linear regression analysis was used to explore the association between L1 and L3 measurements. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the predictive performance of L1 SMI for sarcopenia. The sex-specific cut-off values for low skeletal muscle mass in patients under the age of 60 were determined using the following formula: “mean − 1.28 × standard deviation.” A multivariate linear regression model was established. Results A significantly higher SMI at the L1 level was found in males than in females (43.88 ± 6.33 cm2/m2 vs 33.68 ± 5.03 cm2/m2; P &lt; 0.001). There were strong correlations between measures at the L1 and L3 levels in both the total subject and sex-specific analyses. A negative association was found between age and L3 SMI in males (r = −0.231, P = 0.038). Both body mass index (BMI) and body surface area (BSA) were positively associated with L1 SMI in both males and females. A multivariate analysis was used to establish a prediction rule to predict SMI at the L3 level. The assessment of consistency and interchangeability between predicted and actual SMI at the L3 level yielded moderately good results. Considering the significant differences observed between male and female participants, the sex-specific cut-off values of the L1 SMI for defining low skeletal muscle mass were 36.52 cm2/m2 in males and 27.29 cm2/m2 in females. Conclusions Based on a population from central China, the correlated indicators obtained at the L1 level from routine chest CT scans may serve as effective surrogate markers for those at the L3 level in assessing overall skeletal muscle mass.

Normative MRI for Lumbar Spinal Canal and Vertebral Body Dimensions in a Jordanian Population Sample

Aim: To provide normal values for the lumbar spinal canal, lumbar vertebral body and dural sac dimensions and canal body ratio by MRI for a Jordanian population sample.&#x0D; Material and methods: Three well trained observers reviewed 218 lumbar MRI scans performed between 2019–2021 (1090 lumbar levels) and obtained from the central computerized medical archive of three main governmental hospitals in north, central and south Jordan. All MRIs with alignment abnormalities (scoliosis and kyphosis), canal compression, vertebral disease (including fractures) or technical artifacts were excluded. The following were measured from L1 to L5 levels: the midsagittal diameters of the spinal canal and vertebral body, axial anteroposterior (AP), and transverse diameter of the vertebral body, dural canal and dural canal area. Data on sex and age were also documented.&#x0D; Results: The studied MRI scans included 113 males (51.8%) and 105 females (48.2%). Age ranged between 23–86 years old (mean 52.23 ± 13.125). The mid sagittal mid vertebral AP diameter of the lumbar spine range was 2.8–3.1 cm. The mid sagittal spinal canal diameter range was 1.3–1.5 cm. Canal body ratio was 3.3–3.6. The AP, transverse dural sac diameter ranges were 1.2–1.4 cm and 1.5–1.9 cm, respectively. Finally, the dural sac area ranged from 331–362 mm2.&#x0D; Conclusion: The dimensions of the lumbar spinal canal, vertebral bodies, and vertebral canal ratio at all levels were documented for a Jordanian population sample. Dimensions varied according to sex and when compared with other ethnic groups (Asian and African). The findings suggest that canal stenosis criteria should take these differences into consideration.

Functional Outcomes and Successful Predictors of Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections (LTFESIs) for Lumbar Radiculopathy Under Fluoroscopic Guidance: A Prospective Study.

Lumbar radiculopathy, a common and debilitating condition, often necessitates a multimodal approach for effective management. Lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection (LTFESI) has emerged as a valuable therapeutic option when conservative measures fall short. Recent interest in long-acting and non-particulate steroids prompts a critical examination of their impact on LTFESI outcomes. This prospective study aims to evaluate the efficacy of LTFESI in improving pain and functional outcomes in patients with lumbar radiculopathy, focusing on long-acting and non-particulate steroids, and analyse the associated economic burden. The study, conducted from October 2017 to April 2019, involved 52 patients with lumbar radiculopathy meeting specific criteria. LTFESI was administered using a hospital-based prospective design. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores at various intervals. Statistical analyses were performed to identify predictors of successful outcomes. Participants (average age 43.22 years, 27 (51.92%) male) exhibited diverse Michigan State University (MSU) grade profiles and predominantly had pathology at the L4-5 level. The study demonstrated a significant and lasting functional improvement in 43 (82.69%) of patients after LTFESI. Patients with 2AB-type intervertebral disc prolapse (IVDP) showed lower response rates, emphasizing subtype influence. The efficacy of LTFESI was sustained for up to six months in almost 82.69% of patients, highlighting its potential for long-lasting benefits. The difference in the mean ODI score pre-injection and six months post-injection is statistically significant (p<0.0001). A total of four patients (7.69%) underwent surgical treatment for lumbar radiculopathy as their symptoms did not improve after injection. For all four patients (7.69%), surgery was done one month after injection. Five patients (9.61%) had ODI scores of more than 40, indicating severe disability at the end of six months. So, in nine patients (17.3%), the injection given was not effective at the end of six months, four (7.69%) of whom were operated on and five (9.61%) patients received conservative treatment. Thus, 43 (82.69%) of patients had a good outcome. The study reinforces LTFESI as an effective and safe intervention, providing substantial and lasting benefits for lumbar radiculopathy. The majority experienced immediate relief, supporting its role as an intermediate option between conservative management and surgery. Identified predictors of decreased success underscore the importance of early intervention and tailored treatment plans. The study emphasizes LTFESI's diagnostic and therapeutic potential, with economic benefits and safety highlighted. LTFESI emerges as a safe and effective intervention for lumbar radiculopathy, offering substantial and enduring pain relief. The study contributes valuable insights into the nuanced outcomes of LTFESI, including the impact of IVDP subtypes, factors influencing success, and the procedure's cost-effectiveness. While acknowledging limitations, this work adds to the growing evidence supporting LTFESI as a crucial component in the management of lumbar radiculopathy.

MORPHOMETRIC STUDY OF THE LUMBAR VERTEBRAE PEDICLE IN DRY HUMAN BONES IN SOUTH INDIAN POPULATION

Objective: The present study is to demonstrate the morphometric measurement of the pedicle of lumbar vertebrae in dry human bones. In the vertebral column of the human body, the lumbar vertebrae are the biggest and most unfused vertebrae when compared to other vertebrae. The entire weight of the torso is supported by the vertebral column, and the whole body weight is transmitted through the lumbar spine. Because of this, the lower segment vertebrae are most susceptible to degenerative changes. Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy at Villupuram Medical College under MGR University. The morphometric measurements of the 50 dry lumbar vertebrae were taken using vernier calipers. The parameters included in this study are pedicle sagittal diameter (pedicle height), interpedicular diameter, and external transverse diameter (pedicle width). SPSS software for Windows version 22.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) is used for statistical analysis. The data were analyzed and recorded. Results: The pedicle width was broadest at the L5 level. The narrowest pedicle width is at the L1 level. The external sagittal (pedicle height) diameter was broadest at the L1 level. The narrowest pedicle height was at the level of L5. The interpedicular diameter is maximum at the level of L5 and minimum at the level of L1. Conclusion: The increased use of internal fixation of pedicle screws makes the study of the morphometry of the pedicle of lumbar vertebrae important. Morphometry variations in the pedicle anatomy have been useful for orthopedic surgeons to choose the appropriate size of screws and angulations of screws.

Glenoid lateralization and subscapularis repair are independent predictive factors of improved internal rotation after reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has shown improvement in clinical outcomes for various conditions, although some authors expressed concern about the restoration of active internal rotation (AIR). The current study assesses preoperative and intraoperative predictive factors of AIR in patients having a Grammont-style RSA with a minimum five year follow-up. We conducted a retrospective multicentric study, including patients operated on with a 155° Grammont-style RSA for cuff-related pathology or primary osteoarthritis with posterior subluxation or an associated cuff tear. Patients were clinically evaluated at a minimum of fiveyear follow-up. Patients with previous surgery or those who had a tendon transfer with the RSA were excluded. Demographic parameters, BMI, preoperative notes, and operative reports were obtained from medical records. AIR was graded according to the constant score system from 0 to 10. A total of 280 shoulders in 269 patients (mean age at surgery, 74.9 ± 5.9 years) met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The average follow-up was 8.1 years (range, 5-16 years). Overall, AIR increased from 4.2 (SD 2.5, range 0 to 10) preoperatively to 5.9 (SD 2.6, range 0 to 10) at final follow-up. At the last follow-up, AIR increased in 56% of cases, was unchanged in 26% and decreased in 18%. In 188 shoulders (67%), internal rotation was functional and allowed patients to reach the level of L3 or higher. Multivariable linear regression found the following preoperative clinical factors predictive of worse AIR after RSA: male gender (ß = -1.25 [-2.10; -0.40]; p = 0.0042) and higher values of BMI (ß = -0.085 [-0.17; -0.0065]; p = 0.048). Two surgical factors were associated with better AIR after RSA: glenoid lateralization with BIO-RSA technique (ß = 0.80 [0.043; 1.56]; p = 0.039) and subscapularis repair (ß = 1.16 [0.29; 2.02]; p = 0.0092). With a mean of eightyear follow-up (5 to 16 years), internal rotation was functional (≥ L3 level) in 67% of operated shoulders after Grammont-style RSA; however, two patients out of ten had decreased AIR after surgery. Male patients and those with higher BMIs had worse AIR, with glenoid lateralization (using the BIO-RSA technique) and subscapularis repair, as they are predictive of increased AIR after RSA. Case series, Level IV.

The Association among Physical Activity, Sociodemographic, Trunk Muscles Thickness and Low Back Pain-Related Disability in Amateur Soccer Players: An Observational Study

Abstract Objective Although low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, there is limited evidence assessing which factors contribute LBP severity in amateur athletes. We aimed to analyze relationships between sociodemographic, clinical, lifestyle and lumbar multifidus (LM) at L4 and L5 levels, rectus abdominis (RA), external and internal obliques (EO and IO) and transversus abdominis (TrA) muscles thickness assessed with ultrasound imaging (US) variables with lumbar disability in amateur athletes with LBP and lumbar disc herniation. Methods Eighty-two male amateur soccer athletes were analyzed. Demographic data, internal hip rotation, finger-floor distance, pain intensity, number of LBP episodes within the last year, metabolic equivalent of tasks for physical activity, sitting time, muscle thickness and disability caused by LBP were collected. Results Pain intensity showed significant associations with LBP recurrence, disability, sedentarism, trunk and hip flexibility, vigorous physical activity and TrA, EO and RA muscles thickness (p&lt;0.05). Similarly, disability was associated with number of LBP episodes, vigorous activity, sitting time, finger floor distance, and RA, EO and IO muscles thickness (p&lt;0.05). TrA thickness and internal hip rotation were not associated with lumbar disability (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion LBP intensity and pain-related disability were significantly associated with LBP episodes, vigorous activity, sitting time, finger floor distance, and thickness of abdominal muscles were associated with pain intensity and disability. However, lumbar multifidus thickness at rest, ankle dorsiflexion and walking time were not associated with clinical severity.

A nomogram based on psoas muscle index predicting long-term cirrhosis incidence in non-cirrhotic patients with HBV-related acute‑on‑chronic liver failure

There is a lack of scoring system to predict the occurrence of cirrhosis in individuals with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) in the absence of cirrhosis. The goal of this study was to develop a psoas muscle index (PMI)-based nomogram for cirrhosis risk in non-cirrhotic patients with HBV-related ACLF. We included 274 non-cirrhotic HBV-ACLF patients who were randomly assigned to training and validation groups. Logistic analyses were performed to identify risk factors for cirrhosis. A nomogram was then constructed. The predictive performance of the nomogram was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA). During the 360-day follow-up, 44.5% (122/274) of non-cirrhotic HBV-ACLF patients developed cirrhosis. A higher PMI at the L3 level was correlated with a decreased risk of long-term cirrhosis occurrence (OR 0.677, 95% CI 0.518–0.885, P = 0.004). The nomogram incorporating PMI, age, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and international normalized ratio (INR), indicated satisfactory predictive performance for cirrhosis risk stratification in ACLF population. The nomograms had an AUROC of 0.812 (95% CI 0.747–0.866) and 0.824 (95% CI 0.730–0.896) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration curves displayed excellent predictive accuracy of the nomogram in both sets. In both cohorts, the DCA verified the nomogram's clinical efficacy. In non-cirrhotic HBV-ACLF patients, a greater PMI appears to protect against long-term cirrhosis occurrence. Strong predictive performance has been demonstrated by PMI-based nomograms in assessing the likelihood of 1-year cirrhosis in those with HBV-ACLF.

Sarcopenia in paraspinal muscle as a risk factor of proximal junctional kyphosis and proximal junctional failure after adult spinal deformity surgery.

The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors for proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and proximal junctional failure (PJF), including paraspinal muscle atrophy. Fifty-seven consecutive patients who underwent a long-instrumented fusion for adult spinal deformity (ASD) with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were included in the study. Patient, surgical, and radiological factors were evaluated. Muscle volume was measured using the muscle/vertebra ratio of the multifidus, erector spinae (ES), and psoas muscles, and muscle function was evaluated using the degree of fat infiltration at the L4-5 level. The study included 57 consecutive patients: 25 patients in the combined PJK/PJF group (13 with PJK and 12 with PJF) and 32 in the control group (without PJK or PJF). The mean time to onset of PJK and PJF was 15.7 and 1.7 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that greater pre- and postoperative sagittal vertical axis was associated with the occurrence of PJK/PJF. ES muscle atrophy was more significant in the PJK/PJF group than in the control group, and more severe in the PJF than in the PJK group. This study showed that PJF occurred much earlier than PJK after ASD surgery. Paraspinal muscle atrophy was identified as a significant risk factor for PJK and PJF, especially PJF. The possibility of PJK and PJF development should be considered when long-segment fusion is planned for patients with paraspinal muscle atrophy.

The articular surface technique for lumbar pedicle screw placement: a 3D feasibility study.

Traditional pedicle screws (TPSs) and cortical based trajectory pedicle screws each apply stability with fusions of the lumbar spine and have shown good success. However, the technical considerations of each technique imply complications of loosening and failure that either technique is uniquely prone to having. The current study proposes a new pedicle screw technique through the articular surface of the vertebral superior facet. It is hypothesized that this path will allow utilization of a larger screw that rivals that of the TPS technique, while also maintaining the high-density bone encountered in the cortical based trajectory technique. Retrospective review of 50 consecutive trauma patients that underwent lumbar computed tomography (CT) scans at a Level 1 Trauma Center in the age range 18-45. These scans were uploaded to Brainlab software for ideal starting point and trajectory mapping of pedicle screws coursing through each superior facet and pedicle of vertebral levels L1-S1 without cortical breach. Satisfactory pedicle screw variables consisted of a medial angle <10 degrees, screw length at least 30 mm, screw width at least 5.0 mm, and starting point measurements such as distance to the inferior articular surface and distance to the lateral articular surface. A total of 600 virtual pedicle screws were placed, in which 525 were satisfactory and measured with the above variables. The pedicle widths were shown to significantly widen with lower-level vertebra in the lumbar spine. Approximately 72% of unsuccessful pedicle screws were placed in levels L1 and L2 allowing wider pedicle screws to be placed more further down the vertebral column. The articular surface technique (AST) for pedicle screw placement is a viable alternative in lumbar spinal fusions that offers decreased soft tissue dissection. However, the technique is likely better suited for lower lumbar fusions in L3 to S1.

Unilateral interlaminar fenestration on the convex side provides a reliable access for intrathecal administration of nusinersen in spinal muscular atrophy: a retrospective study

BackgroundAs the first gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), nusinersen is supposed to be administrated via intrathecal injection regularly for a lifetime. However, for SMA patients with severe spinal deformities, bony fusion following posterior spinal instrumentation sets great obstacles for the application of nusinersen. Therefore, efforts have been devoted to the exploration of appropriate approach for nusinersen administration. This study aims to evaluate the safety and reliability of unilateral interlaminar fenestration on the convex side during spinal fusion surgery for intrathecal nusinersen injection in SMA.ResultsSMA patients receiving posterior spinal fusion and interlaminar fenestration in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2020 to October 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. 13 patients were included. Of the 13 patients, 10 were classified into SMA type II and 3 into SMA type III. Distal fusion to pelvis was undertaken in 11 patients; while L5 was selected as the lowest instrumented vertebra in the other 2 patients. All patients received interlaminar fenestration on the convex side only with an area of about 15 mm × 20 mm. Fenestration at L2–L3 level was performed in 6 patients; while L3–L4 level was selected for windowing in the remaining 7 patients. 9 of the 13 patients received lumbar puncture and intrathecal nusinersen administration during the 1-year follow-up, with an accumulative total of 50 times. All injections were performed successfully under ultrasound guidance, with no one transferred to radiographic assistance. No severe complications occurred after injection.ConclusionsIn SMA with severe scoliosis planning to receive posterior spinal fusion, unilateral lumbar interlaminar fenestration on the convex side provides a feasible and reliable access for intrathecal nusinersen administration after surgery.

Skeletal Muscle Index, As a Measure of Muscle Mass, Is a Significant Prognostic Factor for Newly Diagnosed Diffuse Large B-Cell Primary CNS Lymphoma Patients

Background: Primary cerebral lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with a particularly poor outcome compared to systemic DLBCL. Several prognostic scores have been developed for PCNSL. These include the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG) score with five prognostic factors (patient age, serum lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] level, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status [PS], deep brain involvement and cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] protein level), and the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) score, which is based on age and the Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS). However, the reproducibility of these two scoring systems is low, and the IESLG score requires CSF protein and LDH levels evaluation, which are not often available. None of these scores incorporate data on nutritional status, in particular albumin, which has been shown to be an important prognostic factor in systemic DLBCL. In addition, a recent study demonstrated that the muscle density and mass determined by imaging segmentation, were strong prognostic factors for newly diagnosed systemic DLBCL patients (Jullien et al. Cancers 2021). Our aim was to determine whether these imaging data were also predictive factors for outcome in newly diagnosed diffuse large B-cell PCNSL patients. Methods: For each patient included in the study, muscle mass and density were estimated using skeletal muscle index (SMI) and mean skeletal muscle radiation attenuation (SMRA), respectively. SMI and SMRA were computed at L3 level using the whole-body scan (WBS) performed at the diagnosis of PCNSL, by the mean of an automated segmenting algorithm. Muscle characteristics were then classified as normal or low using already validated cut-off according to patients' age and body mass index (Westenberg et al. Sci Rep 2023). Patients' outcomes were then compared based on their muscle quality, albumin level at diagnosis and other clinical variables commonly included in PCNSL prognostic scores. Results: Between 2015 and 2022, 98 consecutive diffuse large B-cell PCNSL patients were newly diagnosed at Hematology Department of Hospital Lyon Sud, France. Among them, 77 had WBS at diagnosis with available data for this study. The median age was 69 years (range 24-87) and 22 patients (29%) presented an altered ECOG PS (PS 3-4 score). All patients were treated with first-line high-dose methotrexate-based chemotherapy in combination with rituximab. SMI was normal in 64 patients (83%) and 17 patients (17%) had low SMI. Patients with low SMI had more frequently an altered PS (p=0.07) and had lower albumin level (mean 36.7 g/L vs 32.0 g/L, p=0.007). SMRA was normal in 30 patients (39%) and 47 patients (61%) had low SMRA. Patients with low SMRA were older (60 vs 70 years old, p=0.001). In univariate analysis, patients with low SMI had worse outcome with significantly shorter overall survival (p=0.002, median OS, 21.4 months vs not reached) and a trend towards shorter event-free survival (p=0.055, median EFS, 11.9 months vs 42.3 months, Figure 1). No significant prognostic difference was seen for SMRA for EFS or OS. The multivariate analysis showed that SMI (Hazard ratio [HR]=3.33, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]= 1.21-9.20, p=0.02) and age (HR =1.86, 95%CI =1.15-3.0, p=0.012) were strongly associated with OS but not tumor localization (HR =1.46, 95%CI =0.60-3.55, p=0.4), PS (HR = 1.54, 95%CI =0.65-3.65, p=0.32) and albumin level (HR =1.05, 95%CI =0.47-2.32, p=0.91). Age was significantly associated with EFS (HR=1.4, p = 0.04) with a more limited association of SMI with EFS (HR=2.03, p=0.095). In exploratory subgroup analyses, we showed that SMI still influenced OS in patients with PS 4 (10 months vs not reached, p= 0.002), suggesting that SMI may be a more appropriate prognostic factor than PS, especially for patients with motor deficit for whom PS is difficult to estimate. Conclusions: This retrospective analysis of newly diagnosed PCNSL patients showed a significant association between decreased muscle mass, measured by SMI and overall survival, after controlling for other prognostic variables. These findings warrant confirmative analyses to explore the relationship between muscle mass/density and diffuse large B-cell PCNSL patient's outcome and integrate SMI in PCNSL prognostic scores.

Axilofemoral bypass in aortoiliac diseases: a case report

Introduction: In patients presenting with severe comorbid conditions and infra-renal aortic occlusion, an extra-anatomic bypass stands as one of the viable revascularization options for limb preservation. Axillofemoral bypass offers a valuable alternative in cases involving hostile abdominal environments or infectious aortic aneurysms. To our knowledge, this is the first report from Indonesia of a case of Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease (AIOD). This case report presents a 39-year-old female patient with complaints of left leg pain persisting for the past seven months. Case Description: A 39-year-old female patient sought care at our hospital, reporting left leg pain persisting for the past seven months. The pain worsened during physical activity and subsided during rest. She had a history of hypertension for the last eight years but no diabetes or smoking history. The previous hospital had diagnosed her with peripheral arterial disease, prescribing cilostazol and rivaroxaban, which provided only temporary relief. A computed tomography (CT) angiogram revealed occlusion of the abdominal aorta at the level of L2, extending to the left common iliac and right iliac arteries. We elected to perform an axilla-femoral bypass using a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft, which yielded satisfactory results. The patient's progress was monitored for three months postoperatively. This report details the case of a female patient with aortoiliac occlusive disease. Given the absence of insurance coverage for endovascular treatment at our facility, we opted for an axilla-femoral bypass using a PTFE graft, which produced satisfactory outcomes during a three-month follow-up period. Conclusion: The axillofemoral bypass procedure is fairly safe and easy, especially in patients with a high risk of direct aortofemoral bypass and difficult anatomy. The number of collateral vessels in our patients based on CT scans and endovascular procedures that have not been supported by insurance in our hospital makes us choose the axillofemoral bypass option is the action we decided.

A predictive model of motor deficit in civilian ballistic lumbosacral spine injuries

BACKGROUND CONTEXTCivilian gunshot wounds to the spine are an increasingly common injury in the USA. A majority of the available research is focused on a military population suffering high energy missile injury. Minimal research has focused on civilian ballistic injuries to the lumbosacral spine as the available studies focus on the entire spine due to limited numbers. PURPOSECharacterize ballistic injuries to the lumbosacral spine and develop a model to predict the presence of neurological deficit based upon a patients presenting fracture morphology. STUDY DESIGNRetrospective chart review. PATIENT SAMPLEOne hundred forty-eight consecutive patients that were presented to an urban level 1 trauma center with ballistic injures to the spine involving the levels L1–S2. OUTCOMES MEASURESNeurological status at presentation and final follow up using the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale. METHODSIRB approval was obtained, and retrospective chart review was performed. Extracted data included patient demographics, neurological status on presentation and final follow-up, fracture morphology, assessment of stability, other associated injuries, and surgical procedures performed. Proportional analysis was performed to characterize the fractures and their associated neurological injuries. Chi-square testing was done to identify fracture characteristics associated with neurologic injury. A multiple logistical regression was performed using fracture characteristics highly associated with neurological deficit to develop a model to predict neurologic deficit. The model was then validated with a receiver operator curve. RESULTSOf the 148 patients, 14 patients underwent spinal surgery with the most common indication being decompression and foreign body removal. There was a high incidence of intra-abdominal injury (73.6%). Fractures were characterized by level, affected vertebral component, and spinal canal involvement. Neurological injury was classified using the ASIA scale at presentation and final follow up. Odds-ratios of vertebral fracture characteristics showed neurologic deficit was highly associated with pedicle fractures (OR=9.07 [4.14–21.54] – 95% CI), lamina fractures (OR=6.42 [3.16–13.62] – 95% CI), facet fractures (OR=5.95 [2.90–12.79] – 95% CI), intra-canal bone (OR=12.79 [5.98–29.05] – 95% CI), and an intra-canal trajectory (OR=1078 [4.48–28.98]) – 95% CI. Multiple logistic regression was performed to construct a predictive model of neurologic deficit which showed that intra-canal trajectory, pedicle fracture and facet fracture are associated with neurologic deficit. An ROC curve was made with an area of 0.849 ([0.7853 to 0.9128 – 95% CI], p<.0001) demonstrating a good model fit. CONCLUSIONSBallistic injuries to the lumbosacral spine involve complex injury patterns in an often polytraumatized patient. Fractures involving the pedicle, lamina, and facet are highly associated with neurologic injury, as is a trans-canal trajectory. A patients fracture morphology can be used to predict if a neurologic deficit is present.

Preoperative examination and intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage test for minimally invasive surgery of spinal extradural arachnoid cysts: illustrative case.

Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts (SEACs) are rare and can cause spinal dysfunction. Total cyst removal and duraplasty via multiple laminectomies are commonly performed. However, to avoid postoperative spinal deformity and axial pain, a minimally invasive surgery via selective laminectomy may be optimal. Therefore, preoperative detection of the dural fistula site is required. A 25-year-old male presented with a 2-month history of progressive gait disturbance and back pain. Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed SEACs at the T9 to L2 level but did not reveal the dural fistula. Further examinations were performed using sagittal time-spatial labeling inversion pulse MRI and cone-beam computed tomography myelography with a spinal intrathecal catheter, which indicated a dural fistula on the left side at the T12 level. On the basis of these results, dural repair was performed via selective laminectomy. Furthermore, an intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage test by intrathecally injecting saline via a spinal catheter confirmed complete closure of the dural fistula, with no other fistulas. These comprehensive pre and intraoperative examinations may be useful for minimally invasive and selective surgeries in patients with SEACs.

Rehabilitation of a patient with spinal cord lesion due to surgical removal of the spinal tumor with chronic idiopathic demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP): A case report

Aims: The literature provides numerous medical therapies for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and spinal cord lesion following spinal tumor surgery separately. Spinal cord injuries from CIDP-related spinal tumors have no evidence-based rehabilitation methods. This case report discusses CIDP, spinal cord lesion owing to a spine tumor, and tertiary care interdisciplinary rehabilitation. It shows how medical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and evidence guide outcome measures, care plans, and clinical decisions help to overcome CIDP. Methods: In this report, we follow a 27-year-old male who began experiencing gradual paresthesia and mild weakening in his lower extremities for six weeks. After two months, the lumbar spine had the initial operation (laminectomy) because of the extreme pain. After the operation, he was pain-free, able to walk, and even started riding again. Pain in his lower midback, similar to cramping, and moderate swelling in his left ankle forced him into a wheelchair three years after his initial operation (intradural-extramedullary spinal space-occupying lesion at L2–L5 level). After the second operation (laminectomy), he had trouble in walking, lost sensation below the knees on both legs, and experienced mild incontinence. As the patient was confined to a wheelchair, he was standing with the help of two people. Significant main muscle group weakening was one of the first noticeable symptoms. Therapeutic exercise, balance training, functional training, and progressive endurance activities were the main components of the intervention. Berg balance score increased from 5 to 23, which is an eligible score for discharge. Results: Clinical outcomes for the man with spinal cord lesion and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) were improved with interdisciplinary therapy. The patient underwent a first lumbar spine operation, which initially eased pain and allowed him to walk and ride again after feeling gradual paresthesia and minor weakened in his lower extremities. Conclusion: For this patient with CIDP with spinal cord lesion due to spinal tumor, effective collaborative team communication and interdisciplinary management worked to optimize clinical decision making and recovery.

Should a Narrow Corridor Be a Contraindication for Performing Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion Procedure or Not?

Retrospective study. We investigated the effect of corridor width on the postoperative outcomes of patients who underwent the OLIF procedure. Patients who underwent OLIF surgery, which included L4-5, between 2015 and 2021 were retrospectively studied. The patients were divided into three groups by the width of the corridor: not more than 10mm, between 10 and 20mm, and 20mm or more. We compared clinical and radiographic outcomes and complications between these groups. A total of 81 patients were included. There were no significant differences in VAS leg and back pain scores, ODI scores, or complications between each group. The radiographic findings, including cage position, anterior and posterior disc height, segmental Cobb angle, and foraminal height, also showed no significant differences between each group. The only radiographic finding that showed a significant difference between each group was the angle of the cage. We found significantly less degree of angle in the wider than 20mm group when compared to the other two groups. (P-value = .01). There was no recorded incidence of major vascular complications. The width of oblique corridor does not affect clinical outcomes, complications, or radiographic findings, including position of the cage, anterior and posterior disc height, segmental angle, and foraminal height after OLIF procedure, including L4-5 level. Thus, the OLIF procedure can be performed safely even in patients with limited oblique corridors, especially at L4-5.

Atypical presentation of syringomyelia mimicking as motor neuron disease: A case report

This is a case involving a 27-year-old Filipino female who presented with a chief complaint of progressive weakness in all extremities. The initial assessment of the patient’s clinical history and the neurologic examination revealed the presence of a motor neuron disease. This conclusion was drawn based on the observation of both upper and lower motor neuron signs. Furthermore, the findings from the Electromyography (EMG) Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) findings suggest active and chronic generalized disorder of motor neurons. However, craniospinal MRI revealed the presence of a long segment C1-T12 syringomyelia, accompanied by an extradural, extramedullary cystic mass at the T12 to L1 level. This paper is the first one to report an atypical presentation of syringomyelia as a motor neuron disease secondary to a non-chiari malformation.