Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Research Articles

Australian Spine Surgeon's Perspectives on Endoscopic Spine Surgery: An In-depth Analysis.

Endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) is a minimally invasive approach with reduced tissue trauma, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. It employs advanced endoscopic instruments and imaging technologies to address a wide range of spinal pathologies with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. As ESS continues to evolve, this article aims to gather insights into the opinions and perspectives of the key stakeholders involved, and highlight strategies to improve implementation. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to collect data on Australian spine surgeons' perspectives of ESS. The survey questionnaire was distributed electronically to a diverse group of spine surgeons who are members of the Spine Society of Australia. Of responders, 46.8% were already integrating ESS into practice, or had the sufficient training to commence ESS. A further 29.8% were contemplating introduction of ESS techniques, while just under one quarter of respondents (23.4%) were not interested in implementing minimally invasive techniques. Primary motivators for implementation included skill development and improved patient outcomes. Primary barriers included lack of training opportunities, length of time to develop competency and lack of current supporting evidence. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on ESS by providing a comprehensive analysis of surgeon opinions and experiences. The results highlight the growing interest in endoscopic techniques, while recognizing the challenges that need to be addressed to make this more widely utilised and available. The findings can guide future research, training programs, clinical practice and ultimately improve health and financial outcomes to patients and the wider health system.

Screw Insertional Torque Measurement in Spine Surgery: Correlation With Bone Mineral Density and Hounsfield Unit.

Achieving successful fusion during spine surgery is dependent on rigid pedicle screw fixation. To assess fixation strength, the insertional torque can be measured during intraoperative screw fixation. This study aimed to explore the technical feasibility of measuring the insertional torque of a pedicle screw, while investigating its relationship with bone density. Thoraco-lumbar screw fixation fusion surgery was performed on 53 patients (mean age, 65.5 ± 9.8 years). The insertional torque of 284 screws was measured at the point passing through the pedicle using a calibrated torque wrench, with a specially designed connector to the spine screw system. The Hounsfield units (HU) value was determined by assessing the trabecular portion of the index vertebral body on sagittal computed tomography images. We analyzed the relationship between the measured insertional torque and the following bone strength parameters: bone mineral density (BMD) and HU of the vertebral body. The mean insertion torque was 105.55 ± 58.08 N∙cm and T-score value (BMD) was -1.14 ± 1.49. Mean HU value was 136.37 ± 57.59. Screw insertion torque was positively correlated with BMD and HU in whole patients. However, in cases of osteopenia, all variables showed very weak correlations with insertional torque. In patients with osteoporosis, there was no statistically significant correlation between BMD and torque strength; HU showed a significant correlation. The insertional torque of screw fixation significantly correlated with bone density (BMD and HU). HU measurements showed greater clinical significance than did BMD values in patients with osteoporosis.

The Endoscopic Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Narrative Review, and Future Perspective.

Lumbar interbody fusion stands as a preferred surgical solution for degenerative lumbar spine diseases. The procedure primarily aims to establish lumbar segment stability, directly addressing patient symptoms associated with spinal complications. Traditional open surgery, though effective, is linked with notable morbidities and extended recovery time. To mitigate these concerns, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has garnered significant popularity, presenting an appealing alternative with numerous benefits such as reduced soft tissue trauma, decreased blood loss, and expedited recovery. Among MIS procedures, full endoscopic spinal surgery, characterized by its minimal invasiveness, holds the potential to further minimize morbidities while enhancing surgical outcomes. Endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion, a novel procedure within this paradigm, has gained attention for offering advantages comparable to those of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion. However, the safety, efficacy, and associated surgical techniques and instrument design of this method continue to be subjects of ongoing debate. This paper critically reviews current evidence on the safety, efficacy, and advantages of endoscopic lumbar spinal interbody fusion, examining whether it could indeed supersede existing mainstream techniques.

Monitored Anesthesia Care in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery-A Retrospective Case Series Study.

Background and Objectives: Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) under monitored anesthesia care (MAC) has emerged as a treatment modality for spinal radiculopathy. It is essential to secure the airway and guarantee spontaneous respiration without endotracheal intubation during MISS in a prone position. Materials and Methods: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of MAC with dexmedetomidine during MISS, we retrospectively reviewed clinical cases. A retrospective review of medical records was conducted between September 2015 and June 2016. A total of 17 patients undergoing MISS were included. Vital signs were analyzed every 15 min. The depth of sedation was assessed using the bispectral index (BIS) and the frequency of rescue sedatives. Adverse events during anesthesia, including bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory depression, postoperative nausea, and vomiting, were evaluated. Results: All cases were completed without the occurrence of airway-related complications. None of the patients needed conversion to general anesthesia. The median maintenance dosage of dexmedetomidine for adequate sedation was 0.40 (IQR 0.40-0.60) mcg/kg/hr with a median loading dose of 0.70 (IQR 0.67-0.82) mcg/kg. The mean BIS during the main procedure was 76.46 ± 10.75. Rescue sedatives were administered in four cases (23.6%) with a mean of 1.5 mg intravenous midazolam. After dexmedetomidine administration, hypotension and bradycardia developed in six (35.3%) and three (17.6%) of the seventeen patients, respectively. Conclusions: MAC using dexmedetomidine is a feasible anesthetic method for MISS in a prone position. Hypotension and bradycardia should be monitored carefully during dexmedetomidine administration.

Treatment Concept and Technical Considerations of Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis.

Decompression is a major component of surgical procedures for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). In addition to sufficient decompression to guarantee the relief of neurological pain, compensating surgical instability after wider laminectomy and foraminotomy and instrumentation with caging and fusion with grafting are performed to secure or restore the foraminal dimension and correct coronal/sagittal imbalance for longer survival of the adjacent segment. Endoscopic spinal surgery (ESS) has been developed under the flag of successful decompression while preserving structural integrity as much as possible with the help of magnification and illumination. ESS provides a technical possibility and feasibility for solving LSS by decompression alone. Recently, many endoscopic trials have been conducted to overcome conventional surgical treatment that requires wider dissection, escape inevitable complications from surgical damage, and compensate for the fusion technique. However, biportal ESS has some technical limitations, including clinical difficulties in accessibility for more moderate to severe stenosis and challenges for complicated conditions with segmental ventral slip, isthmic defect, stenosis combined with foraminal stenosis or foraminal disk rupture, or degenerative segmental scoliosis with disk height collapsing and endplate fatigue fracture. Because decompression alone is a skill for eliminating pathologies, there is no function of preserving degenerative structure or stopping the recurrence of disk degeneration or subsidence. This review of clinical reports investigated the possibility of biportal ESS for treating degenerative lumbar disorders by sufficient decompression and adequate elimination of various pathologies and decreasing technical complications. The results of this study may help develop better innovative spinal surgical techniques in the near future.

Finite element mechanical analysis of ipsilateral approach and contralateral approach in unilateral bilateral endoscopic spine surgery

BackgroundUnilateral bilateral endoscopic spine surgery (UBE) is often performed to treat lumbar spinal stenosis and disc herniation. It has become a prominent method in endoscopic spine surgery because of its very low learning curve and broader operative field of vision. Currently, the ipsilateral approach and contralateral approach have been established for disc herniation in the foraminal area, intervertebral foramen region, or pedicle region. The contralateral method offers many benefits over the ipsilateral approach, including less bone labour during microsurgical decompression and the preservation of facet joints. However, because it uses the interlaminar window approach, it inevitably involves osteotomy of the patient’s superior and inferior articular processes, which may result in corresponding deterioration in the spine’s biomechanical stability and subsequent adjacent facet joint diseases caused by facet joint degeneration postoperatively.ObjectiveAs a result, the purpose of this work is to use a finite element model to evaluate how the ipsilateral approach and contralateral approach in unilateral bilateral endoscopic spine surgery affect spinal stability while treating identical intervertebral disc herniation.Study designIn this study, a three-dimensional lumbar-sacral spine model was built and verified. Osteotomies were conducted for armpit-type lumbar disc herniation (LDH), periradicular-type LDH, and shoulder-type LDH. Postoperative lumbar spine models of the ipsilateral approach and contralateral approach in unilateral bilateral endoscopic spine surgery were developed. The von Mises stress on the endplate, shear force on the annulus fibrosus, pressure inside the intervertebral disc, and range of motion (ROM) of the L3 segment were all determined. The results of our well-validated model showed that osteotomy done in the ipsilateral approach deteriorated most biomechanical metrics.ResultsIn the majority of loading conditions, the contralateral approach caused the intervertebral disc’s biomechanical properties to increase, and the ipsilateral approach caused the intervertebral disc’s biomechanical properties to increase sharply more than the contralateral approach.ConclusionThe contralateral approach, which is now extensively employed in unilateral bilateral endoscopic spine surgery, may be regarded as an ideal surgical alternative for treating lumbar disc herniation without producing iatrogenic instability. This approach has a low facet joint reduction rate, minimum soft tissue injury, and precisely identifies the midline of the central spinal canal during the retraction of the thecal sac and nerve roots.

Predictors of Clinical Failure after Endoscopic Lumbar Spine Surgery During the Initial Learning Curve

This study aims to identify clinical factors that may predict failed endoscopic lumbar spine surgery to guide surgeons with patient selection during the initial learning curve. This is an Australasian prospective analysis of the first 105 patients to undergo lumbar endoscopic spine decompression by 3 surgeons. Modified MacNab outcomes, visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were utilized to evaluate clinical outcomes at 6 months postoperatively. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA t tests were performed to measure statistically significant (P < 0.05) associations between variables using GraphPad Prism v10. Patients undergoing endoscopic lumbar surgery via an interlaminar or transforaminal approach have overall good/excellent modified MacNab outcomes and a significant reduction in postoperative VAS and ODI scores. Regardless of the anatomic location of disc herniations, good/excellent modified MacNab outcomes and significant reductions in VAS and ODI were reported post-operatively, however, not in patients with calcified disc herniations. Patients with central and foraminal stenosis overall reported poor/fair modified MacNab outcomes, however, there were significant reductions in VAS and ODI scores postoperatively. Patients with subarticular stenosis or an associated spondylolisthesis reported good/excellent modified MacNab outcomes and significant reductions in VAS and ODI scores postoperatively. Patients with disc herniation and concurrent degenerative stenosis had generally poor/fair modified MacNab outcomes. The outcomes of endoscopic spine surgery are encouraging with low complication and reoperation rates. However, patients with calcified disc herniations, central canal stenosis, or disc herniation with concurrent degenerative stenosis present challenges during the initial learning curve and may benefit from traditional open or other minimally invasive techniques.

Letter to the Editor Regarding “Full Endoscopic Spine Surgery with Image-Guided Navigation System as ‘Hybrid Endoscopic Spine Surgery’”

Letter to the Editor Regarding “Full Endoscopic Spine Surgery with Image-Guided Navigation System as ‘Hybrid Endoscopic Spine Surgery’”

Assessing the impact of obesity on full endoscopic spine surgery: surgical site infections, surgery durations, early complications, and short-term functional outcomes.

An increasing number of obese patients undergoing elective spine surgery has been reported. Obesity has been associated with a substantially higher number of surgical site infections and a longer surgery duration. However, there is a lack of research investigating the intersection of obesity and full endoscopic spine surgery (FESS) in terms of functional outcomes and complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate wound site infections and functional outcomes following FESS in obese patients. Patients undergoing lumbar FESS at the participating institutions from March 2020 to March 2023 for degenerative pathologies were included in the analysis. Patients were divided into obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2) and nonobese (BMI 18-30 kg/m2) groups. Data were collected prospectively using an approved smartphone application for 3 months postsurgery. Parameters included demographics, surgical details, a virtual wound checkup, the visual analog scale for back and leg pain, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) as a functional outcome measure. A total of 118 patients were included in the analysis, with 53 patients in the obese group and 65 in the nonobese group. Group homogeneity was satisfactory regarding patient age (obese vs nonobese: 55.5 ± 14.7 years vs 59.1 ± 17.1 years, p = 0.25) and sex (p = 0.85). No surgical site infection requiring operative revision was reported for either group. No significant differences for blood loss per level (obese vs nonobese: 9.7 ± 16.8 ml vs 8.0 ± 13.3 ml, p = 0.49) or duration of surgery per level (obese vs nonobese: 91.2 ± 57.7 minutes vs 76.8 ± 39.2 minutes, p = 0.44) were reported between groups. Obese patients showed significantly faster improvement regarding ODI (-3.0 ± 9.8 vs 0.7 ± 11.3, p = 0.01) and leg pain (-4.4 ± 3.2 vs -2.9 ± 3.7, p = 0.03) 7 days postsurgery. This effect was no longer significant 90 days postsurgery for either ODI (obese vs nonobese: -11.4 ± 11.4 vs -9.1 ± 9.6, p = 0.24) or leg pain (obese vs nonobese: -4.3 ± 3.9 vs -3.5 ± 3.8, p = 0.28). The results highlight the effectiveness and safety of lumbar FESS in obese patients. Unlike with open spine surgery, obese patients did not experience significant increases in surgery time or postoperative complications. Interestingly, obese patients demonstrated faster early recovery, as indicated by significantly greater improvements in ODI and leg pain at 7 days after surgery. However, there was no difference in improvement between the groups at 90 days after surgery.

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Posterior Spinal Instrumentation and Fusion in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Current Status and Future Application.

The posterior minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) approach-or the paraspinal muscle approach-for posterior spinal fusion and segmental instrumentation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) was first reported in 2011. It is less invasive than the traditionally used open posterior midline approach, which is associated with significant morbidity, including denervation of the paraspinal muscles, significant blood loss, and a large midline skin incision. The literature suggests that the MISS approach, though technically challenging and with a longer operative time, provides similar levels of deformity correction, lower intraoperative blood loss, shorter hospital stays, better pain outcomes, and a faster return to sports than the open posterior midline approach. Correction maintenance and fusion rates also seem to be equivalent for both approaches. This narrative review presents the results of relevant publications reporting on spinal segmental instrumentation using pedicle screws and posterior spinal fusion as part of an MISS approach. It then compares them with the results of the traditional open posterior midline approach for treating AIS. It specifically examines perioperative morbidity and radiological and clinical outcomes with a minimal follow-up length of 2 years (range 2-9 years).

Exploring Physical Lumbar Microvascular Geometry Through Endoscopy and Illustrations: Implications for Clinical Interpretation.

Retrospective Study. Minimally invasive endoscopic spinal surgery is gaining popularity, but our understanding of the lumbar spine's microvascular geometry relies heavily on cadaver studies and textbook illustrations. Additionally, inconsistent nomenclature of vessels in the literature hampers effective communication among surgeons. This study aims to improve the clarity and comprehensibility of the lumbar spinal microvascular geometry under endoscopic view. The study included 400 patients who underwent endoscopic spinal surgery for lumbar spinal canal stenosis and foraminal stenosis. The surgeries were performed by an experienced surgeon using either the interlaminar or transforaminal approach. Endoscopic video recordings were further analyzed to map the microvascular geometry and common bleeding foci. The observed results were cross-referenced with existing literature to reconstruct a comprehensive view of the vascular anatomy. The transforaminal approach commonly encounters bleeding foci originating from the major branches of the segmental lumbar artery and the emissary veins within the foramen. The interlaminar approach primarily encounters bleeding foci from the muscle vessels in the dorsal lamina, which are believed to be located near the ends of the three main branches. In the intracanal region, epidural vessels form a rotary loop above the disc, which can contribute to most of the bleeding during discectomy. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the microvascular anatomy in the lumbar spine during endoscopic spinal surgery. Recognizing the geometry will help surgeons anticipate and control bleeding, reducing the risk of complications. The findings contribute to the improvement of surgical techniques and patient safety in endoscopic spinal surgery.

Future of Endoscopic Spine Surgery: Insights from Cutting-Edge Technology in the Industrial Field.

In the evolving landscape of spinal surgery, technological advancements play a pivotal role in enhancing surgical outcomes and patient experiences. This paper delves into the cutting-edge technologies underpinning endoscopic spine surgery (ESS), specifically highlighting the innovations in scope cameras, RF equipment, and drills. The modern scope camera, with its capability for high-resolution imaging, offers surgeons unparalleled visualization, enabling precise interventions. Radiofrequency (RF) equipment has emerged as a crucial tool, providing efficient energy delivery for tissue modulation without significant collateral damage. Drills, with their enhanced torque and adaptability, allow for meticulous bone work, ensuring structural integrity. As minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) becomes the standard, the integration and optimization of these technologies are paramount. This review captures the current state of these tools and anticipates their continued evolution, setting the stage for the next frontier in spinal surgery.

Abdominal Compartment Syndrome During Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Spinal Surgery: A Case Report

Abdominal Compartment Syndrome During Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Spinal Surgery: A Case Report

Letter to editor regarding "The Efficacy and Safety of Topical Saline Irrigation with Tranexamic Acid on Perioperative Blood Loss in Patients Treated with PELD".

Letter: We have read the recent article published by Zhang et al titled "The Efficacy and Safety of Topical Saline Irrigation with Tranexamic Acid on Perioperative Blood Loss in Patients Treated with Percutaneous Endoscopic Interlaminar Diskectomy: A Retrospective Study". In this retrospective study, authors performed interlaminar endoscopic lumbar discectomy (IELD) for L5-S1 disc herniations, categorizing patients into two groups. One group underwent IELD with saline irrigation fluid containing 0.33 gm of tranexamic acid (TXA) per 1L of saline, while the other group received only saline irrigation fluid. We appreciate the authors' efforts in shedding light on the use of TXA in irrigation fluid, which currently has limited literature available. However, we wish to highlight several points of concern that, in our view, warrant further discussion. Upon reviewing the manuscript, our initial concern centers on the reported amount of blood loss, a crucial outcome in this study. The blood loss figures presented in this study appear significantly higher compared to the existing literature. In both study groups, the authors indicate total blood loss (TBL) exceeding 300 ml and intraoperative blood loss (IBL) surpassing 40 ml. In contrast, a systematic review and meta-analysis by Jitpakdee et al. (1) reported a range of blood loss from 10.9 ml to 23.35 ml for interlaminar endoscopic discectomy without any systemic or local use of tranexamic acid. Accurately assessing blood loss in endoscopic spine surgery poses a challenge, and the accuracy of indirect calculation methods is questionable, particularly when bleeding is minimal. Endoscopic discectomy has been proven benefits by minimal tissue damage and negligible blood loss. Another significant concern we would like to address is related to the safety and efficacy of topical tranexamic acid (TXA) use in endoscopic spine surgery. The existing literature generally accepts the safety profile and efficacy of use of intravenous TXA in open spine surgery where the blood loss incurred is substantial (2, 3). However, when it comes to the safety of topical TXA, it is important to note that TXA is known to have neurotoxic and epileptogenic properties when applied to central nervous system (CNS) tissue (5, 6). This is due to its interference with central GABAA receptors and glycine receptors (7). In endoscopic spine surgeries, small dural tears can sometimes go unnoticed due to continuous irrigation fluid pressure. In such cases, the potential CNS side effects associated with topical TXA could pose a real danger. Furthermore, even when dural tears are identified during surgery, it can be challenging to completely washout all the irrigation fluid containing TXA from the surgical field. The accumulation of excessive epidural or intrathecal TXA, especially after a dural tear, can lead to life-threatening conditions such as seizures or arrhythmias, significantly increasing morbidity and mortality in what is often intended as a day-care procedure. Moreover, the authors have not mentioned any exclusion criteria for patients with conditions that are suspected to elevate risk of developing TXA-related side effects, such as a history of thromboembolic events and/or coagulopathy, convulsive disorders and dural disruption. Lastly, in terms of the efficacy of TXA, there are limited studies demonstrating the use of local TXA in spine surgeries to reduce blood loss. For example, Krohn et al(4) used topical TXA irrigation in open instrumented spinal fusion surgery before wound closure. Their study showed a reduction in postoperative blood loss, with drain output decreasing from 525 ml in the non-TXA group to 252 ml in the TXA group. However, it had no significant effect on intraoperative blood loss. We would like to raise a pertinent question regarding endoscopic discectomy procedures, which are characterized by minimal blood loss and are often conducted as day-care surgeries. It becomes a matter of concern whether the potential advantages of using topical TXA in reducing blood loss outweigh the associated risks of neurological damage to the central nervous system (CNS) and other potentially life-threatening complications.

Overview and Prevention of Complications During Biportal Endoscopic Lumbar Spine Surgery

Unilateral biportal endoscopic spine surgery (UBESS) is a minimally invasive surgical technique that has gained popularity for its potential benefits in various spinal lesions. It involves 2 small incisions, providing wide and clear endoscopic visualization, and causes less soft tissue damage than open surgery. UBESS offers flexibility and versatility in approaching different spinal disorders, including decompression of the spinal cord and root in the cervical or thoracic spine, as well as lumbar discectomy and spinal stenosis. One of the strengths of UBESS is its similarity to microscopic techniques, allowing for 2-handed endoscopic surgery. This familiarity makes it easier for surgeons to adopt endoscopic techniques and overcome the learning curve associated with spine endoscopy. However, some potential complications are associated with biportal endoscopic spine surgery, including dural tear, epidural hematoma, infection, incomplete surgery, and neural injury. Although the overall incidence of these complications is relatively low, it is important for clinicians to be aware of them and understand preventive methods.

Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery: Clinical Results for 163 Patients

Biportal endoscopy spine surgery is an endoscopic procedure that uses 2 portals, 1 for the endoscope and 1 for the instruments. It provides an excellent and very versatile field of view, with the advantage of another portal to approach the most common degenerative lumbar pathologies. We evaluated a retrospective series of patients who underwent biportal endoscopy with ≥1 year of follow-up. Relevant epidemiological and clinical data, such as the Oswestry disability index and visual analog scale for pain, were also considered. Complications and the effects of the learning curve are also discussed. We included 163 patients treated within a 5-year period with ≥1 year of follow-up available. The main pathologies were disc herniation (53.4%), foraminal stenosis (19%), and central canal stenosis (16.6%). The outcomes regarding disability and pain scores after surgery were very good, with a redistribution of the patient sample to the mild categories of disability. Inferential analysis showed relative and absolute improvements for both disc herniation and canal stenosis in terms of the Oswestry disability index and visual analog scale for pain, especially for disc herniation. The incidence of complications was approximately 7%. The most common approach was interlaminar (89%), and the most common pathology was disc herniation (54.9%). The duration of surgery overall and for the different stages had improved at the end of the learning curve with a reduction of almost 58 minutes. Biportal endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that is safe and effective, with a low rate of complications. It has a reproducible learning curve and provides very good outcomes regarding functionality and pain scores.

Treatment of a symptomatic cervical cerebrospinal fluid fistula after full endoscopic cervical foraminotomy with CT-guided epidural fibrin patch

BackgroundThere is only limited data on the management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulas after cervical endoscopic spine surgery. We investigated the current literature for treatment options and present a case of a patient who was treated with CT-guided epidural fibrin patch.MethodsWe present the case of a 47-year-old female patient with a suspected CSF fistula after endoscopic decompression for C7 foraminal stenosis. She was readmitted 8 days after surgery with dysesthesia in both upper extremities, orthostatic headache and neck pain, which worsened during mobilization. A CSF leak was suspected on spinal magnetic resonance imaging. A computer tomography (CT)-guided epidural blood patch was performed with short-term relief. A second CT-guided epidural fibrin patch was executed and the patient improved thereafter and was discharged at home without sensorimotor deficits or sequelae. We investigated the current literature for complications after endoscopic spine surgery and for treatment of postoperative CSF fistulas.ResultsAlthough endoscopic and open revision surgery with dura repair were described in previous studies, dural tears in endoscopic surgery are frequently treated conservatively. In our case, the patient was severely impaired by a persistent CSF fistula. We opted for a less invasive treatment and performed a CT-guided fibrin patch which resulted in a complete resolution of patient’s symptoms.Discussion and conclusionCSF fistulas after cervical endoscopic spine procedures are rare complications. Conservative treatment or revision surgery are the standard of care. CT-guided epidural fibrin patch was an efficient and less invasive option in our case.

Educational Status of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Abstract Introduction The objective of this study was to understand how spine surgeons learn minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) and how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the educational experience of MISS. Potential solutions for increasing the spine surgeon's access to MISS educational resources were also discussed. Methods An internet survey was distributed to neurosurgical and orthopedic spine surgeons across multiple online platforms from April to June 2021, asking specific questions about education and training for MISS. Online survey tools were used to contact spine surgeons in the five geographical continents. Results A total of 303 spine surgeons responded to the survey: 272 (89.7%) neurosurgeons and 31 (10.3%) orthopedic surgeons. The six countries with the greatest number of participants were: Argentina (n = 70; 23.1%), India (n = 47; 15.5%), Brazil (n = 34; 11.2%), Pakistan (n = 10; 3.3%), Mexico (n = 9; 3.0%), and Chile (n = 8; 2.6%). Conclusion Most spine surgeons were able to attend virtual learning events during the pandemic, but cadaveric study was still considered the gold standard for learning MISS. Multidisciplinary effort is needed to develop structured curriculums for teaching MISS that include a variety of educational tools such as cadaver laboratory, guidance from experienced surgeons, and virtual demonstrations.

A multilevel posterior tension band-sparing laminectomy for intraspinal lesions: patient series.

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) represents a major development in spinal tumor surgery. However, considering that many intradural lesions compromise multiple spinal segments, MISS has certain limitations. Thus, some intraspinal lesions still require traditional approaches. Because laminectomy has been shown to predispose patients to kyphosis, laminoplasty and hemilaminectomy are the most widely used approaches to preserve the posterior tension band (PTB). However, these techniques are not devoid of complications. To overcome these issues, the authors modified a previously described technique to preserve the PTB while removing various types of intradural lesions. This procedure was originally designed to treat lumbar stenosis and was modified to avoid muscle ischemia during long procedures. Between 2014 and 2021, the authors found 17 cases of spinal lesions with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up after surgical treatment using their approach. No significant postoperative changes in the paraspinal Goutallier grade or spinal angles were observed. The cross-sectional area of the measured paraspinal muscles decreased 6% postoperatively. By performing certain technical modifications in this PTB-sparing (PBS) laminectomy, the authors avoided ipsilateral muscle ischemia. In this initial series, PBS laminectomy proved to be a safe, versatile, inexpensive, and reliable technique to remove intraspinal lesions.

Emergence of a New Era in Orthopaedic and Spine Medicine: Advancements and Specialization in Pakistan's Healthcare Landscape

In a remarkable transformation, the landscape of medical science, including Orthopaedic and Spine care, is rapidly evolving. Even in regions like Pakistan, characterized as third-world countries, healthcare is swiftly adopting the latest techniques, technologies, and research predominantly originating from the Western world. The origins of Orthopaedic Surgery in Pakistan trace back to the era when General Surgeons initially handled these responsibilities. However, the true development of Orthopaedic specialization began in the 1970s when the necessity for dedicated Orthopaedic treatment became evident. This marked the inception of the Orthopaedic era in the country. By the early 2000s, many medical professionals opted for this specialization, leading to a saturation point that paved the way for sub-specializations within Orthopaedics. These sub-specialities include Periotic, Trauma, Hand, Oncology, Arthroplasty, Sports, and Spine.1 Between 2000 and 2015, these sub-specialties also progressed to a saturation point, prompting a demand for even more specialized expertise. Over the past 5 to 8 years, each sub-speciality has further fragmented, with individuals or teams dedicated to refining systems that provide superior management of pathologies, thus enhancing prognoses and patient outcomes.2 This evolution has seen the emergence of both sub-specialties and super-specialties, reflecting the contemporary medical practice needs. The trajectory is clear: as exposure and practical experience accumulate, a cadre of experts will naturally emerge within these specialized domains. The domain of Spine specialization, once regarded with apprehension due to its challenging nature and variable outcomes, has been revolutionized by integrating cutting-edge technology, advanced surgical techniques, and in-depth research. Distinct categories within the Spine speciality have emerged, spanning Trauma, Oncology, Deformity Correction, Degenerative Spine, and Infection.3 These intricate surgeries are now performed using minimally invasive techniques, informed by meticulous research prioritizing anatomical precision. These advancements involve smaller incisions, real-time X-ray guidance, and even endoscopic approaches for enhanced operative field visualization. This curtails inflammatory responses and expedites patient recovery, facilitating earlier discharge from medical facilities. A noteworthy addition to Pakistan’s Spine surgery landscape is the introduction of Endoscopic Spine Surgery. Over the past half-decade, many Neuro and Orthopaedic Spine Surgeons have sought training in this cutting-edge super-specialty. The procedure offers substantial advantages such as same-day patient discharge and quicker return to normal routines. Presently, only a handful of centres in the country provide this innovative treatment modality, marking a significant stride in Spine care.