Poor Radiographic Outcome Research Articles

Primary Embolization of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations With Intention to Cure: A Systematic Review of Literature and Meta-Analysis.

The treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) involves multiple approaches, including embolization, microsurgical resection, and radiosurgery. With the advent of new embolisates, dual-lumen balloon catheters, detachable tip microcatheters, and transvenous embolization, endovascular AVM obliteration has become more effective. Although adjuvant embolization and embolization are commonly used, the safety and effectiveness of curative embolization remain unclear. We conducted a systematic literature review using PubMed, Ovid Medline, and Web of Science to identify studies reporting outcomes in patients with AVMs who underwent primary embolization with the intention to cure. We collected data on patient characteristics, AVM features, complications, and radiographic and clinical outcomes for meta-analysis. We identified 25 studies with a total of 1425 patients with 1427 AVMs who underwent curative embolization. Of these patients, 70% were low grade (pooled = 61% [39-82]), 67% were <3 cm (pooled = 78% [60-92]), and 75% were in superficial locations (pooled = 80% [72-86]). At last radiographic follow-up (mean, 16.7 ± 10.9 months), the full obliteration rate was 52% (pooled = 61% [43-77]) and retreatment rate was 25% (pooled = 17% [8.3-27]). At last clinical follow-up (mean, 24.2 ± 13.3 months), the poor clinical outcome rate was 7.9% (pooled = 4.4% [1.3-8.7]) and symptomatic complication rate was 13% (pooled = 13% [8-19]). There was no significant difference in the rate of radiographic cure, need for retreatment, and poor outcomes between ruptured and unruptured AVMs. Symptomatic complications were more common in the treatment of unruptured AVMs. The primary outcomes showed high heterogeneity (I2 = 72%-94%). Curative embolization of AVM is primarily reserved for small and low-grade AVMs, with highly variable outcomes. Our findings suggest poor radiographic outcomes and increased risk of complications. Outcomes are highly dependent on patient selection and technique used. Large multicenter prospective studies are required to further guide patient selection, categorize clinical and radiographic outcomes, and identify subgroup of patients that may benefit from curative embolization.

Long-term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes Following Surgical Treatment for Ankle Fracture-Dislocations: Do poor radiographic outcomes always matter?

Background Ankle fractures constitute 10% of all traumatic fractures in clinical practice. Concurrent tibiotalar dislocations form 21-36% of all ankle fractures. Although mechanism of injury is similar to non-dislocated ankle fractures, fracture-dislocations cause more extensive bone and soft tissue damage. Treatment is a challenge for orthopedic surgeons due to concomitant pathologies. It is associated with malreduction, chronic pain and most importantly, posttraumatic osteoarthritis. We aimed to investigate the relationship between ankle osteoarthritis radiographic stage and clinical outcomes. Methods 27 patients (17 female, 10 male) were included in the study. Records and data were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical status at the final follow-up was evaluated by a single orthopedic surgeon. Range of motion (ROM), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score, visual analogue scale (VAS) were the clinical parameters that were assessed. Radiological assessment was made by standard anteroposterior [AP], lateral, and mortise views. Pre-operative osseo-ligamentous injury pattern, presence of posterior malleolar fracture, syndesmosis injury and post-operative ankle osteoarthritis were investigated. Results For 27 patients that were evaluated, at the final follow-up, mean AOFAS was 85 ± 8.12, and mean VAS during daily activities was 1.52 ± 0.70. Mean ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion were significantly lower on the affected sides (14.07 ± 7.97° and 36.30 ± 6.59°) than on the unaffected sides (28.15 ± 2.82° and 46.30 ± 2.97°), respectively (p < 0.001). No significant difference for inversion and eversion was observed. Twenty-four patients demonstrated radiographic signs of ankle osteoarthritis, and three remained without evidence of osteoarthritis. No significant difference was found among Takakura's stages in any of the variables. Conclusion The results illustrated that although post-traumatic osteoarthritis rate was high for ankle fracture-dislocation patients, surgical treatment achieved excellent functional results. Even if advanced stages of ankle arthritis according to Takakura's classification developed, patients had satisfactory clinical and functional results.

22. Poor radiographic outcomes after cervical disc replacement

22. Poor radiographic outcomes after cervical disc replacement

Three- instead of two-dimensional evaluation of key parameters alters the choice of the lowest instrumented vertebra in Lenke 1 and 2 AIS patients.

Treatment of AIS, a three-dimensional spinal (3D) deformity, is guided by a two-dimensional (2D) evaluation. Novel 3D approaches that address the 2D limitations have not been adopted in AIS care due to their lengthy and complex 3D reconstruction procedures. This study aims to introduce a simple 3D method that translates the 2D key parameters (Stable vertebra (SV), Lenke lumbar modifier, Neutral vertebra (NV)) into 3D and to quantitively compare these 3D corrected parameters to the 2D assessment. The key parameters of 79 surgically treated Lenke 1 and 2 patients were measured in 2D by two experienced spine surgeons. Next, these key parameters were measured in 3D by indicating relevant landmarks on biplanar radiographs and using the 'true' 3D CSVL which was perpendicular to the pelvic plane. Differences between the 2D and 3D analysis were examined. A 2D-3D mismatch was identified in 33/79 patients (41.8%) for at least one of the key parameters. More specifically, a 2D-3D mismatch was identified in 35.4% of patients for the Sag SV, 22.5% of patients for the SV and 17.7% of patients for the lumbar modifier. No differences in L4 tilt and NV rotation were found. The findings highlight that a 3D evaluation alters the choice of the LIV in Lenke 1 and 2 AIS patients. Although, the true impact of this more precise 3D measurement on preventing poor radiographic outcome needs further investigation, the results are a first step toward establishing a basis for 3D assessments in daily practice.

Comparison of Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes Between Modified Lapidus and Proximal Reverse Chevron Metatarsal Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus Concomitant with Metatarsus Adductus

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Bunion Introduction/Purpose: Operative treatment of hallux valgus (HV) in the setting of metatarsus adductus (MA) is reported to be difficult and poorer radiographic outcomes. Reduced space between the first and second metatarsals makes it difficult to translate the first metatarsal head laterally. This study aimed to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes between HV with MA patients treated with modified Lapidus procedures and those with reverse proximal chevron metatarsal osteotomy (PCMO). Methods: The study included the patients of HV with MA (58 feet). 16 feet (Group 1) had been treated with modified Lapidus procedures by the senior author from December 2012 to November 2019. 42 feet (Group 2) had been treated with PCMO from February 2012 to March 2017. For the clinical assessment, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, AOFAS scores, and patients' postoperative satisfaction were evaluated. Radiographic assessment was performed with HV angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), and the first- to fifth-metatarsal width (1-5 MTW). Results: The mean follow-up duration was 16.8 (range, 12-54) months in Group 1, and 31.8 (range, 24-62) months in Group 2. The mean pain VAS score and AOFAS score improved from preoperative to the final follow-up in both group, however, Group 1 showed more significant improvement in clinical outcomes (ΔVAS: 6.0+-1.9 (Group 1) vs 5.1+-2.1(Group 2) (p=0.024), ΔAOFAS: 40.8+-11.5 (Group 1) vs 30.0+-11.3 (Group 2) (p=0.031)). As to radiographic assessment, Group 1 also showed more significant improvement in HVA and IMA (ΔHVA: 39.1+-9.1 (Group 1) vs 27.5+-9.8 (Group 2) (p&lt;0.001), ΔIMA: 13.1+-3.0 (Group 1) vs 9.4+-4.5 (Group 2) (p=0.004). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the HV patients with concomitant MA that treated with modified Lapidus procedures showed more significant clinical and radiographic improvement than those with PCMO. For the management of the HV patients accompanying MA in the setting of large preoperative HVA, modified Lapidus procedures would be good surgical option.

Predicting the Poor Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes after the Anatomical Reduction and Internal Fixation of Posterior Wall Acetabular Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis.

Anatomical reduction is the fundamental principle of hip function restoration after posterior acetabular wall fractures (PWFs). Some patients exhibit poor outcomes despite anatomical reduction, and the prognostic factors leading to poor outcomes remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients with PWFs who had undergone anatomical reduction and internal fixation and to identify the predictors that impair clinical and radiologic outcomes. The clinical records of 60 patients with elementary PWFs who had undergone anatomical reduction and internal fixation between January 2005 and July 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. The Harris hip score (HHS) and modified Merle d’Aubigné clinical hip scores (MMAS) were used to evaluate the clinical outcome. Preoperative and final follow-up radiographs were cross checked to identify poor radiographic outcomes that included the presence of advanced osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis, as well as the need for conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Acetabular dome comminution was assessed from computerized tomography, and the outcomes were further evaluated according to the involvement of fragment comminution. The fracture comminution and age were negatively correlated with functional outcomes (correlation coefficients were −0.41 and −0.39 in HHS and MMAS, respectively) and were significantly related to the severity of osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis as well as the need for total hip arthroplasty. Regarding the radiographic factors, significantly worse post-operative HHS and MMAS were found in the fracture comminution group. In the subanalysis of the status of fracture comminution, patients with fragment comminution involving the acetabular dome had significantly lower functional scores than those with other fracture patterns. In conclusion, age, fracture comminution, and dome comminution were the prognostic indicators of advanced osteoarthritis and poor functional scores after the anatomical reduction and internal fixation of PWFs. We emphasized the relevance of acetabular dome comminution as an important contributing factor to clinical and radiographic outcomes.

Dual antiplatelet use in the management of COVID-19 associated acute ischemic stroke reocclusion.

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection is associated with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), which may be due to a prothrombotic state. Early reports have suggested high rates of reocclusion following mechanical thrombectomy (MT) with poor radiographic and clinical outcomes. We report our early experience using intra-procedural antithrombotics to address SARS-CoV-2 reocclusion. We identified 6 patients that experienced early reocclusion after MT for COVID-19-associated AIS through retrospective chart review abstracting their basic demographics, COVID-19 status, and stroke management. All these patients were treated after reocclusion with aspirin and cangrelor intra-procedurally, the latter of which was converted to ticagrelor post-procedurally. Some patients additionally received argatroban infusion intraprocedurally. Mean age was 54. There were 3 post-procedural and 3 intra-procedural re-occlusions. After repeat thrombectomy and treatment with aspirin and cangrelor, those with post-procedure reocclusion did not show further reocclusion, while those with intra-procedural reocclusion showed radiographic improvement with intraprocedural cangrelor administration. Outcomes for these patients were poor, with a median mRS of 4. Two patients developed petechial hemorrhage of their stroke which was managed conservatively, and one developed a retroperitoneal hemorrhage from femoral access requiring transfusion. There were no patients who developed new parenchymal hematomas. COVID-19 AIS may be associated with a hypercoagulable state which risks malignant reocclusion complicating MT. We found antithrombotic treatment periprocedural cangrelor with or without argatroban transitioned to oral aspirin with ticagrelor to be a viable method for management of these patients.

Abstract 162: Arterial Aspirate Derived Exosomes From Patients With Large Vessel Occlusion Are Associated With Increased Blood-brain Barrier Permeability, Decreased Endothelial Integrity As Well Poor Clinical And Radiographic Outcomes Following Mechanical Thrombectomy

Introduction: Exosomes (~30-150nm microvessicles [MVs]), are important mediators of cell-cell communication and have been associated with injurious and neuroprotective processes in experimental stroke models. Since many patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy (MT) do not improve despite successful recanalization we hypothesized that these exosomes may mediate injurious processes leading to worse outcomes. Methods: As part of an IRB approved protocol we analyzed arterial blood and retrieved clots aspirated during MT from patients with anterior circulation LVO. MVs were isolated and their effects on BBB permeability and endothelial monolayer integrity measured by transepithelial/endothelial electrical resistance (TEER) in cultured human endothelial cells were measured. Following adjustment for age, DM, NIHSS this effect was also correlated (Pearson R) with NIHSS, RAPID™ CTP parameters, TICI score, BP post MT, 24hr ASPECTS, ICH incidence and mRS. Results: Forty-eight patients were enrolled; mean age was 71±14yrs, 56% were female and 20% were African-American. Mean NIHSS was 16±6.6 with a median baseline ASPECTS score of 9 (range 3-10). Baseline CTP parameters (N=21) were: infarct core 25.8±38.5cc, mismatch volume 103±72.2cc and hypoperfusion index (Tmax&gt;10s/Tmax&gt;6s) 0.34±0.25. Recanalization (TICI 2b/c/3) was achieved in 93.8%. The median 24hr ASPECTS was 7 (range 0-10). At last follow-up 43.5% of patients achieved a good outcome (mRS&lt;=2). BBB permeability was associated with NIHSS change (r=-0.31, p=0.0093), TICI (r=-0.31, p=0.031), SBP post MT (r=0.41, p=0.0036) and 24hr ASPECTS (r=-0.31, p=0.015). TEER correlated most strongly with NIHSS change (r=0.36, p=0.0041), TICI (r=0.35, p=0.02), 24hr ASPECTS (r=0.37, p=0.027) and hypoperfusion index (r=-0.4, p=0.041). Conclusions: Arterial aspirate derived MVs can be isolated from LVO stroke patients. Their effects on BBB permeability and endothelial integrity significantly correlated with clinical and radiographical markers of poor outcomes. It is therefore plausible that clot derived exosomes may impact neurological outcomes following MT through endothelial and BBB injury. In addition, these in vitro BBB measures may serve as biomarkers for post-stroke outcomes.

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Treated by Posterior Spinal Segmental Instrumented Fusion : When Is Fusion to L3 Stable?

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for distal adding on (AO) or distal junctional kyphosis (DJK) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) treated by posterior spinal fusion (PSF) to L3 with a minimum 2-year follow-up. MethodsAIS patients undergoing PSF to L3 by two senior surgeons from 2000–2010 were analyzed. Distal AO and DJK were deemed poor radiographic results and defined as >3 cm of deviation from L3 to the center sacral vertical line (CSVL), or >10° angle at L3–4 on the posterior anterior- or lateral X-ray at ultimate follow-up. New stable vertebra (SV) and neutral vertebra (NV) scores were defined for this study. The total stability (TS) score was the sum of the SV and NV scores. ResultsTen of 76 patients (13.1%) were included in the poor radiographic outcome group. The other 66 patients were included in the good radiographic outcome group. Lower Risser grade, more SV-3 (CSVL doesn’t touch the lowest instrumented vertebra [LIV]) on standing and side bending films, lesser NV and TS score, rigid L3–4 disc, more rotation and deviation of L3 were identified risk factors for AO or DJK. Age, number of fused vertebrae, curve correction, preoperative coronal/sagittal L3–4 disc angle did not differ significantly between the two groups. Multiple logistic regression results indicated that preoperative Risser grade 0, 1 (odds ratio [OR], 1.8), SV-3 at L3 in standing and side benders (OR, 2.1 and 2.8, respectively), TS score -5, -6 at L3 (OR, 4.4), rigid disc at L3–4 (OR, 3.1), LIV rotation >15° (OR, 2.9), and LIV deviation >2 cm from CSVL (OR, 2.2) were independent predictive factors. Although there was significant improvement of the of Scoliosis Research Society-22 average scores only in the good radiographic outcome group, there was no significant difference in the scores between the groups. ConclusionThe prevalence of AO or DJK at ultimate follow-up for AIS with LIV at L3 was 13.1%. To prevent AO or DJK following fusion to L3, we recommend that the CSVL touch L3 in both standing and side bending, TS score is -4 or less, the L3/4 disc is flexible, L3 is neutral (<15°) and ≤2 cm from the midline and the patient is ≥ Risser 2.

Outcomes of Treatment of Monteggia Fractures with Reduction and Internal Titanium Elastic Nail Fixation of the Ulna.

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the usefulness of radiographic indices of humero-radial joint instability in order to predict treatment outcomes in Monteggia fractures. A retrospective analysis was conducted in a group of patients who underwent closed reduction and internal titanium elastic nail (TEN) fixation of the ulna and closed reduction of a dislocation of the radial head between 2016 and 2018. The indications for intrame-dullary fixation comprised transverse or short oblique fractures. The direction of the dislocation was classified according to Bado. The following radiographic indies were assessed: Radiocapitellar Line, Lateral Humeral Line, Proximity Index, and Radial Head Displacement Index. Treatment outcomes were assessed with the Oxford Elbow Score and Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and com-plications were assessed with a modified Clavien-Dindo-Sink scale. No coincidence between poor functional and radio-graphic outcomes was demonstrated. 1. Regardless of the severity of the injury, eligibility for surgery and correctly performed surgical treatment guarantee a good final outcome. 2. Patients treated with TEN regain their preoperative mobility. 3. There was no coincidence between poor functional and radiographic outcomes, except for one patient in whom subluxation of the radial head persisted despite surgery and was confirmed radiographically and functionally. 4. It would be beneficial for clinical practice to introduce simple, reproducible radiographic parameters for unambiguous assessment of the effectiveness of treatment and predicting treatment outcomes; unfortunately none of the parameters we investigated were sufficiently reliable. 5. The radiographic parameters analysed in this paper are dependent on the quality of the radiological examinations performed.

The Incidence of Adding-On or Distal Junctional Kyphosis in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Treated by Anterior Spinal Fusion to L3 Was Significantly Higher Than by Posterior Spinal Fusion to L3.

ObjectiveTo compare and identify risk factors for distal adding-on (AO) or distal junctional kyphosis (DJK) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) treated by anterior- (ASF) and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) to L3. MethodsAIS patients undergoing ASF versus PSF to L3 from 2000–2010 were analyzed. Distal AO and DJK were deemed poor radiographic results. New stable (SV) and neutral vertebra (NV) scores were defined for this study. The total stability (TS) score was the sum of the SV and NV scores. ResultsTwenty of 42 (ASF group: 47.6%) and 8 of 72 patients (PSF group: 11.1%) showed poor radiographic outcome. Fused vertebrae, correction rate of main curve, coronal reduction rate of L3 were significantly higher in PSF group. Multiple logistic regression results indicated that preoperative SV-3 at L3 in standing and side benders (odds ratio [OR], 2.7 and 3.7, respectively), TS score -5, -6 at L3 (OR, 4.9), rigid disc at L3–4 (OR, 3.7), lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) rotation > 15° (OR, 3.3), LIV deviation > 2 cm from center sacral vertical line (OR, 3.1) and ASF (OR, 13.4; p<0.001) were independent predictive factors. There was significant improvement of the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 average scores only in PSF group. Furthermore, the ultimate scores of PSF group were significantly superior to ASF group. ConclusionThe prevalence of AO or DJK at ultimate follow-up for AIS with LIV at L3 was significantly higher in ASF group. Ultimate SRS-22 scores were significantly better in PSF group.

Comparison of tibial plateau fracture surgical outcomes between young and elderly patients: are outcomes really poorer in the elderly?

Several studies have reported that total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a suitable solution to treat elderly patients with complex tibial plateau fractures. The purpose of the present study was to compare surgical treatment outcomes after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) between elderly and younger patients. We reviewed patients with plateau fracture (OTA/AO classification types 41B and 41C) who underwent ORIF at two academic trauma centers between November 2006 and October 2019. Of the 341 patients, 76 were ultimately included in the younger group (< 60years old) and 77 in the elderly group (≥ 60years). The average follow-up was 24months (range 12-96months). The primary outcome was any common complication of plateau fracture, namely post-traumatic arthritis and alignment change. Conversion to TKA, Reduction loss, coronal malalignment, non-union, union time, infection, and limb length discrepancy (LLD) were also assessed. The elderly group had a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes, but there were no other significant differences between the groups in terms of patient demographics, fracture characteristics, and operation characteristics. We detected no differences between the groups in terms of post-traumatic arthritis (p = 0.216), alignment change (p = 0.093), conversion to TKA (p = 0.681), reduction loss (p = 0.079), coronal malalignment (p = 0.484), non-union rate (p = 0.719), infection (p = 0.063), LLD (p = 0.154), or time to union (p = 0.513). Logistic regression analysis revealed that age > 60years was not associated with treatment failure, defined as either post-traumatic arthritis greater than grade II or non-union (p = 0.468). OTA/AO classification type 41C2 (p = 0.019), type 41C3 (p = 0.008), and malreduction (p = 0.050) were significant risk factors for failure. Age ≥ 60years is not an independent risk factor of poor radiographic outcome and high complication rate in tibial plateau fractures. This indicates that ORIF is still a good solution to treat elderly patients, similar to their younger counterparts.

Predicting the combined occurrence of poor clinical and radiographic outcomes following cervical deformity corrective surgery.

Cervical deformity (CD) correction is clinically challenging. There is a high risk of developing complications with these highly complex procedures. The aim of this study was to use baseline demographic, clinical, and surgical factors to predict a poor outcome following CD surgery. The authors performed a retrospective review of a multicenter prospective CD database. CD was defined as at least one of the following: cervical kyphosis (C2-7 Cobb angle > 10°), cervical scoliosis (coronal Cobb angle > 10°), C2-7 sagittal vertical axis (cSVA) > 4 cm, or chin-brow vertical angle (CBVA) > 25°. Patients were categorized based on having an overall poor outcome or not. Health-related quality of life measures consisted of Neck Disability Index (NDI), EQ-5D, and modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) scale scores. A poor outcome was defined as having all 3 of the following categories met: 1) radiographic poor outcome: deterioration or severe radiographic malalignment 1 year postoperatively for cSVA or T1 slope-cervical lordosis mismatch (TS-CL); 2) clinical poor outcome: failing to meet the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for NDI or having a severe mJOA Ames modifier; and 3) complications/reoperation poor outcome: major complication, death, or reoperation for a complication other than infection. Univariate logistic regression followed by multivariate regression models was performed, and internal validation was performed by calculating the area under the curve (AUC). In total, 89 patients with CD were included (mean age 61.9 years, female sex 65.2%, BMI 29.2 kg/m2). By 1 year postoperatively, 18 (20.2%) patients were characterized as having an overall poor outcome. For radiographic poor outcomes, patients' conditions either deteriorated or remained severe for TS-CL (73% of patients), cSVA (8%), horizontal gaze (34%), and global SVA (28%). For clinical poor outcomes, 80% and 60% of patients did not reach MCID for EQ-5D and NDI, respectively, and 24% of patients had severe symptoms (mJOA score 0-11). For the complications/reoperation poor outcome, 28 patients experienced a major complication, 11 underwent a reoperation, and 1 had a complication-related death. Of patients with a poor clinical outcome, 75% had a poor radiographic outcome; 35% of poor radiographic and 37% of poor clinical outcome patients had a major complication. A poor outcome was predicted by the following combination of factors: osteoporosis, baseline neurological status, use of a transition rod, number of posterior decompressions, baseline pelvic tilt, T2-12 kyphosis, TS-CL, C2-T3 SVA, C2-T1 pelvic angle (C2 slope), global SVA, and number of levels in maximum thoracic kyphosis. The final model predicting a poor outcome (AUC 86%) included the following: osteoporosis (OR 5.9, 95% CI 0.9-39), worse baseline neurological status (OR 11.4, 95% CI 1.8-70.8), baseline pelvic tilt > 20° (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.85-0.98), > 9 levels in maximum thoracic kyphosis (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.1-4.1), preoperative C2-T3 SVA > 5.4 cm (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.9-1.1), and global SVA > 4 cm (OR 3.2, 95% CI 0.09-10.3). Of all CD patients in this study, 20.2% had a poor overall outcome, defined by deterioration in radiographic and clinical outcomes, and a major complication. Additionally, 75% of patients with a poor clinical outcome also had a poor radiographic outcome. A poor overall outcome was most strongly predicted by severe baseline neurological deficit, global SVA > 4 cm, and including more of the thoracic maximal kyphosis in the construct.

Effect of age on radiographic outcomes of patients aged 6-24 months with developmental dysplasia of the hip treated by closed reduction.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of age on the rates of redislocation, avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head, and final radiographic outcomes in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) treated with closed reduction. A total of 308 hips (276 patients) with DDH treated with closed reduction were included and divided into three groups according to age (<12, 12-18, 18-24 months). Tönnis grade, rate of redislocation and AVN, Severin radiographic grade, and risk of surgery were evaluated on radiographs. Tönnis grade significantly increased with age (P < 0.001). Redislocation occurred in 17 (5.5%) and AVN occurred in 36 (11.7%) hips. The rate of redislocation and AVN was similar among the three age groups in all Tönnis grades. However, redislocation rate significantly increased with Tönnis grade (P = 0.027). Overall, 246 hips (79.9%) had satisfactory final outcomes, and 62 hips (20.1%) had unsatisfactory outcome; no difference was observed among three age groups. A total of 103 hips (33.4%) were found to be at risk for secondary surgery. The surgical risk (25%) in patients younger than 12 months was lower than that of older patients (12-18 months: 34.4%; 18-24 months: 37.9%). Logistic regression analysis also confirmed that age was not a risk factor for redislocation, AVN, or poor radiographic outcome. In conclusion, age has no significant impact on redislocation and AVN in patients aged 6-24 months with DDH treated by closed reduction. Although older patients have a higher risk developing residual acetabular dysplasia, secondary pelvic surgery provides favorable outcomes in most patients.

A prospective study examining the effects of treatment timing in the management of mandible fractures

The ideal timing for treatment of mandible fractures has not been well established. The objective of this study was to analyse the effects of treatment timing in the surgical management of mandible fractures. A prospective evaluation of 215 continuous patients with a total of 359 mandible fractures was undertaken. Nine outcome variables were analysed in relation to treatment delay by logistic regression modelling: wound dehiscence, hardware exposure, local postoperative infection, malocclusion, trismus, nerve damage, fracture non-union, return to theatre, and radiographic outcome. Nineteen additional variables were included in the analysis to adjust for potential confounding. Delay was measured in days and ranged from 0 to 41days, with a mean delay of 4.6days. The incidence of wound dehiscence, hardware exposure, local postoperative infection, trismus, nerve damage, fracture non-union and return to theatre was 6%, 4%, 11%, 8.5%, 47%, 2% and 8%, respectively. Objective malocclusion and poor radiographic outcomes were evident in 13% and 4.5% of cases, respectively.No statistically significant association was found between treatment delay and treatment outcomes.The findings of this study suggest it may be safe to delay the definitive treatment of mandible fractures. Treatment delay may allow for improved resource distribution and prioritization of more time-dependent interventions.

Surgical outcomes in the elderly with degenerative spondylolisthesis: comparative study between patients over 80 years of age and under 80 years—a gender-, diagnosis-, and surgical method-matched two-cohort analyses

BackgroundIn Taiwan, the current life expectancy of an 80-year-old man is 88.4 years and that of an 80-year-old is woman is 89.8 years. Surgical candidates older than 80 years usually ask surgeons whether it would be safe for them to undergo surgery. PurposeThe objectives of this study were to report the surgical outcomes of patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis who were older than 80 years and underwent instrumented surgeries and to compare these data with the outcomes of patients aged 65–79 years. Study Design/SettingThis is a retrospective study. Patient SampleThe study included 76 patients. Outcome MeasuresThe preoperative medical condition was reviewed using the weighted Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification. Clinical outcomes were evaluated according to the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the visual analog scale (VAS) for leg and back pain. Plain radiographs were used to assess the fusion status, implant-related complications, and the prevalence of osteoporotic compression fractures (OVFx). Materials and MethodsThe study comprised patients older than 80 years, and the control group comprised patients aged 65–79 years. The two cohorts were matched for gender, main diagnosis, and surgical method. ResultsIn total, 76 patients were included in the study. The study group had 38 patients with a mean age of 82.4 years (80–93 years); the control group also had 38 patients with a mean age of 70.8 years (65–79 years). The study group had a significantly higher ASA classification (2.94 vs. 2.76, p=.040) and CCI score (1.84 vs. 1.13, p=.012). The study group had a higher prevalence of preoperative OVFx (10.5% vs. 2.6%, p=.116) and incidence of new-onset OVFx (13.2% vs. 2.6%, p=.089). The study group had longer operative times (204.6 vs. 179.1 minutes, p=.052) with more blood loss (606.5 vs. 525.8 mL, p=.512), but this finding was not statistically significant. The mean ODI and VAS scores were similar between the two groups. The bone union rate was superior in the control group (81.6% vs. 89.5%, p=.328). ConclusionsPatients older than 80 years have a higher osteoporotic status and comorbidities, which may lead to longer operative times and greater blood loss, with poorer radiographic outcomes. However, the clinical results were not affected. With appropriate patient selection, the age of >80 years is not a negative predictive factor for instrumented surgery for degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Ankylosing spondylitis patients at risk of poor radiographic outcome show diminishing spinal radiographic progression during long-term treatment with TNF-α inhibitors.

ObjectiveTo investigate the influence of patient characteristics on the course of spinal radiographic progression in a large prospective longitudinal cohort study of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients treated long-term with TNF-α inhibitors.MethodsConsecutive patients from the Groningen Leeuwarden AS (GLAS) cohort starting TNF-α inhibitors with spinal radiographs at least available at baseline and 6 years of follow-up were included. Radiographs were scored using mSASSS by two independent readers. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to explore the associations between baseline characteristics and spinal radiographic progression. The course of radiographic progression in patients with and without risk factors for poor radiographic outcome was investigated using different time models (linear and non-linear). Single linear imputation was used in case of missing radiographic data at the intermediate (2 or 4 years) follow-up visits.Results80 AS patients were included with mean baseline mSASSS 8.7±13.3. Baseline syndesmophytes, male gender, older age, longer symptom duration, smoking, and higher BMI were significantly associated with more radiographic damage over time. GEE analysis in patients with these risk factors revealed that radiographic progression followed a non-linear course with mean mSASSS progression rates reducing from max. 2.8 units over 0–2 years to min. 0.9 units over 4–6 years. The GEE model revealed a linear course with overall very low progression (≤1 mSASSS units/2yrs) in patients without risk factors. Complete case analysis in 53 patients showed similar results.ConclusionAS patients at risk of poor radiographic outcome showed the highest but diminishing spinal radiographic progression during long-term treatment with TNF-α inhibitors.

Baseline MRI bone erosion predicts the subsequent radiographic progression in early rheumatoid arthritis patients who achieved sustained good clinical response

Objective: To examine whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings at baseline predict radiographic progression in early-stage rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who have achieved sustained good clinical response.Methods: This is a sub-analysis from the one-year observational study of Nagasaki University Early Arthritis Cohort. Definition of ‘good clinical response’ was a decrement of disease activity score (DAS) 28 ≧ 1.2 at three months with achievement of DAS28 remission through 6–12 months. Gd-enhanced MRI of both wrists and finger joints were examined at baseline and scored using rheumatoid arthritis magnetic resonance imaging score (RAMRIS). Annual increment of Genant-modified Sharp score (GSS) > 0 was defined as ‘radiographic progression’. Predictors of radiographic progression were determined by logistic regression analysis.Results: Twenty-four subjects were selected in the present study. Each median RAMRIS synovitis, bone edema, bone erosion, and GSS at baseline were 6.5, 0.5, 0, and 0, respectively. Five patients developed radiographic progression at one year. Multivariate logistic regression analysis has shown that RAMRIS bone erosion at baseline is the only independent predictor of radiographic progression at one year (p = .032).Conclusions: Our data suggest that MRI bone erosion predicts poor radiographic outcome of early-stage RA even if it has been successfully treated.

AB0278 Mri-Proven Osteitis at Baseline Predicts the Development of RAPID Radiographic Progression at 1 Year toward Patients with Early-Stage Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results from Nagasaki University Early Arthritis Cohort

BackgroundEULAR recommendations for the use of imaging of the joints in the clinical management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) states that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) bone oedema (osteitis) is a strong...

Diagnostic delay of more than 6 months contributes to poor radiographic and functional outcome in psoriatic arthritis

(1) To investigate the demographic and clinical characteristics contributing to the delay from symptom onset to the first visit to a rheumatologist; (2) to compare clinical, radiographic and patient-reported outcome measures of those who saw a rheumatologist early in their disease course with those who were diagnosed later. All psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients, fulfilling CASPAR criteria, with an average disease duration of >10 years were invited for detailed clinical evaluation. The total lag time from symptom onset to their first rheumatological encounter was studied. The data were extracted from the referral letters and medical records. Patients were classified as early consulters or late consulters depending on whether they were seen by a rheumatologist within or beyond 6 months of symptom onset. 283 PsA patients were studied. Median lag time from the disease onset to the first rheumatological assessment of the cohort was 1.00 years (IQR 0.5-2). 30% (n=86), 53% (n=149) and 71% (n=202) of the cohort were seen by a rheumatologist within 6 months, 1 and 2 years of symptom onset, respectively. PsA patients with low education status (OR 2.09, p=0.02) and Body Mass Index (OR 0.92, p=0.01) were significantly more likely to have a diagnostic delay of >2 years. On multiple stepwise regression analysis, the model predicted significant association of late consulters with the development of peripheral joint erosions (OR 4.25, p=0.001) and worse Health Assessment Questionnaire scores (OR 2.2, p=0.004). Even a 6-month delay from symptom onset to the first visit with a rheumatologist contributes to the development of peripheral joint erosions and worse long-term physical function.