Postoperative Cross-sectional Area Research Articles

Comparison of Postoperative Epidural Hematoma Formation Between Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery and Conventional Microscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Biportal endoscopic spine surgery (BESS) has become widely recognized as a minimally invasive method for spinal decompression and discectomy. However, postoperative epidural hematoma (POEH) presents a significant risk in spinal surgery due to its potential to compress neural elements and lead to neurological deficits. This study compares the clinical and radiological outcomes of BESS with those of conventional microscopic surgery. In this single-center, single-blinded, actively controlled randomized clinical trial, 46 patients undergoing single-level posterior decompression or discectomy for spinal stenosis or herniated intervertebral discs were enrolled. Participants were randomly allocated to either the conventional microscopic surgery group or the BESS group. Experienced spine surgeons performed all procedures. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging assessments were conducted following the removal of the drain system. Outcome measures included the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the dura sac and POEH, as well as the incidence of neurological deficits. The demographic and baseline characteristics of the patients were similar across the 2 groups, with 24 in the conventional group and 22 in the BESS group. There were no significant differences in the preoperative and postoperative CSA of the dura sac between the groups. However, the BESS group exhibited a significantly larger CSA of POEH (0.36 ± 0.34 cm²) compared with the conventional group (0.17 ± 0.15 cm², P = 0.033). Despite this higher incidence of POEH, there was no corresponding increase in neurological deficits or revision surgeries. The findings indicate that while BESS achieves decompression comparable to that of conventional microscopic surgery, it is associated with a higher incidence of epidural hematomas. Importantly, these hematomas did not result in an increased rate of neurological deterioration or the need for surgical interventions. Further studies with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up are required to confirm these results and further refine the BESS technique. Despite a higher incidence of epidural hematomas, BESS offers comparable decompression to microscopic surgery without increased neurological risks, making it a viable, less invasive option for patient care.

Quadriceps tendon size does not affect postoperative strength recovery following quadriceps tendon anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

ObjectiveThe influence of quadriceps tendon (QT) size on postoperative quadriceps strength following QT anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between QT morphology and postoperative quadriceps strength recovery following primary ACLR using a QT autograft. MethodsPatients who underwent primary ACLR using QT autograft from 2014 to 2022 followed by a postoperative isometric strength measurement between 5 and 8 months were retrospectively reviewed. Using preoperative magnetic resonance imaging findings, the anterior–posterior (A-P) thickness, medial–lateral (M-L) width, and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the QT were measured. Postoperative residual CSA of QT was estimated based on the graft-harvest diameter. The quadriceps index (QI) was also calculated, which was determined by dividing the maximum isometric quadriceps torque on the involved side by the maximum quadriceps torque on the uninvolved side. Associations between the QI and QT morphology were assessed. Furthermore, multivariable logistic regression analysis with the addition of sex as a covariate was performed with the addition of each individual measure of QT morphology to determine the association with a QI ​≥80%. ResultsA total of 84 patients (mean age: 21.9 ​± ​7.3 years; 46 female) were included. Residual CSA showed a statistically significant positive correlation with the QI (r ​= ​0.221, p ​= ​0.043). There were no statistically significant correlations between QI and CSA, A-P thickness, or M-L width. Multivariable logistic analysis adjusting for sex demonstrated that each individual measure of QT morphology was not statistically significantly associated with a QI ​≥80%. ConclusionA statistically significant correlation between measures of preoperative QT size and postoperative quadriceps strength were not detected in patients undergoing primary QT autograft ACLR. A smaller residual QT CSA based on QT harvest diameter was weakly associated with decreased quadriceps strength 5–8 months postoperatively, but this association was not independent of sex. Future studies examining the impact of QT morphology on quadriceps strength at longer follow-up intervals are needed. Level of evidenceIV.

Postoperative Effusion-Synovitis Is Associated With Poor Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome

Purpose(1) to investigate the consecutive changes in effusion-synovitis following primary arthroscopic treatment for patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS), and (2) to determine the effect of postoperative effusion-synovitis on clinical outcomes. MethodsData between March 2021 and January 2022 was reviewed. Patients diagnosed with FAIS and undergoing hip arthroscopic treatment were included. Exclusion criteria were incomplete magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, prior history of hip surgery, labral reconstruction, and concomitant hip conditions. MRI (non-contrast 3.0 T) was performed preoperatively and 3, 6, 12-month postoperatively, and the measurement of the largest femoral neck fluid thickness (FTM) and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the effusion-synovitis were collected. Preoperative and a minimum of 2-year postoperative patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores including Visual Analog pain Scale (VAS), modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), and international Hip Outcome Tool, 12-component form (iHOT-12) were collected and compared. Postoperative Tegner activity scale was also collected. The PROs and achievements of minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) were compared between patients with and without postoperative effusion-synovitis. Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to determine the effect of the effusion-synovitis size on PROs. ResultsA total of 61 patients (61 hips) were included in the study. The 3-month postoperative FTM, CSA and grade of effusion-synovitis presented a significant increase compared to the preoperative values (all with P < .05). No significant differences were observed in the 6-month postoperative measurements compared to the preoperative values (all with P > .05). At the 12-month follow-up, although there was a significant decrease in all measurements compared to the preoperative values (all with P < .001), 39 patients (63.9%) still presented effusion-synovitis. Compared to the other 22 patients (36.1%) without effusion-synovitis, these patients presented inferior mHHS, iHOT-12 (all with P < .05), as well as lower achievement of PASS of mHHS (82.1% vs 100%, P = .035) and iHOT-12 (38.5% vs 81.8%, P = .001). The achievement of MCID of mHHS (79.5% vs 77.3%, P = .839) and iHOT-12 (89.7% vs 95.5%, P = .839) were comparable between patients with and without effusion-synovitis. The postoperative sagittal CSA (Beta = -.302, P = .039) were negatively related to mHHS in the regression analysis. ConclusionAfter arthroscopic treatment for FAIS, the level of effusion-synovitis presented an initial increase, then followed by a subsequent decrease. Effusion-synovitis was significantly alleviated at 12 months compared to the preoperative level. Patients with postoperative effusion-synovitis had inferior clinical outcomes and lower achievement of PASS compared to those without. Level of EvidenceLevel IV; retrospective case series.

Poster 214: Cross Sectional Area of Hip Muscles Before and After Surgery for Femoroacetabular Impingement

Objectives: Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome is a common cause of hip pain and surgery is a treatment option for patients who do not respond to conservative treatment. Previous studies have identified increases in postoperative hip muscle volume and cross-sectional area (CSA) as associated with increases in patient reported outcomes following hip surgery. There has been a lack of literature analyzing the change of hip muscle cross sectional CSA on MRI following arthroscopic hip surgery for FAI and the effect of changes in hip muscle CSA on patient reported outcomes following surgery. The purpose of this study is to analyze the change in hip muscle cross sectional area (CSA) after arthroscopic surgery for FAI syndrome. Methods: This is a single center, single surgeon, retrospective analysis performed between August 2007 and May 2023. All patients who had a pre-operative MRI within 1 year of their date of surgery and at least one postoperative MRI were included in the study. Cross sectional areas were measured by one blinded researcher and results were checked for reliability by a musculoskeletal radiologist. Statistical analysis was completed using SPSS, Version 24 and normally distributed continuous variables between cohorts were compared using the two-sample Student t test. Results: Initially 1390 patients were included in the study but only 95 were found to have a preoperative hip MRI within 1 year of their date of surgery as well as a postoperative MRI. The average age of the cohort was 35.8 ± 15.7, the cohort was 33.7% male and 66.3% female, and had an average BMI of 23.3 ± 8.1. The mean time between surgery and postoperative MRI was 14.8 ± 8.3 months. There was a significant difference between preoperative and postoperative hip muscle CSA for gluteus maximus (4298.6±883.6 mm2 vs. 4384.6±967.6 mm2, p&lt;0.01), gluteus minimus (1037.0±199.2 mm2 vs. 1074.9±202.3 mm2, p&lt;0.001), and pectineus (415.7±121.9 mm2 vs. 426.7±106.3 mm2, p=0.04). There were no other significant differences between preoperative and postoperative hip muscle CSA values between the other muscles analyzed. A linear regression found that an increase in the change in CSA of the gluteus maximus significantly predicted an increase in mHHS at 1 year (β=3.103, p=0.046) when controlling for age, sex, BMI and time from surgery to postoperative MRI. A linear regression found that an increase in the change in cross sectional area of the pectineus significantly predicted an increase in NAHS at 1 year when controlling for age, sex, BMI and time from surgery to post-op MRI (β=0.186, p=0.037). Conclusions: Patients who undergo surgery for FAI have significantly increased gluteus maximus, gluteus minimus and pectineus muscle CSA on post-operative MRIs. Furthermore, increases in both gluteus maximus and pectineus muscle CSA was found to be significantly associated with increases in mHHS and NAHS at 1 year follow up respectively.

Early Clinical and Radiologic Evaluation of Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Unilateral Laminotomy and Bilateral Decompression in Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Retrospective Study.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the changes in radiologic parameters and clinical outcomes following unilateral biportal endoscopic unilateral laminotomy and bilateral decompression (UBE ULBD) for treatment of central lumbar spinal stenosis. Forty-one central lumbar spinal stenosis patients who underwent UBE ULBD were enrolled from April 2021 to February 2023. Visual analog scale (VAS) for back pain and leg pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, and the modified MacNab criteria were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively. The preoperative and postoperative cross-sectional area of the spinal canal (CSAC), anteroposterior diameter, horizontal width, and ipsilateral and contralateral lateral recess height were calculated from axial computed tomography (CT) scans. Percentage of facet joint preservation measured on axial CT scans was obtained preoperation and postoperation. The VAS for back and leg pain improved from 7.24 ± 0.80 and 7.59 ± 0.59 preoperatively to 2.41 ± 0.55 and 2.37 ± 0.62 (p < 0.05) postoperatively and 1.37 ± 0.54 and 1.51 ± 0.55 at the last follow-up (p < 0.05). For ODI, improvement from 60.37 ± 4.44 preoperatively to 18.90 ± 4.66 (p < 0.05) at the last follow-up was observed. CT scans demonstrated that the postoperative CSAC increased significantly from 287.84 ± 87.81 to 232.97 ± 88.42 mm (p < 0.05). The mean postoperative anteroposterior diameter and horizontal width increased significantly from 18.01 ± 3.13 and 19.57 ± 3.80 to 22.19 ± 4.56 and 21.04 ± 3.72 mm, respectively (p < 0.05). The ipsilateral lateral recess height and contralateral lateral recess height were 3.39 ± 1.12 and 3.20 ± 1.14 mm preoperatively and 4.03 ± 1.37 and 3.83 ± 1.32 mm (p < 0.05) postoperatively, with significant differences. The ipsilateral and contralateral facet joint preservations were 88.17 and 93.18%, respectively. The UBE ULBD surgery is a safe and effective treatment for central lumbar spinal stenosis, associated with significant improvement in clinical outcomes and radiologic parameters. Studies with larger samples and longer follow-up periods are needed for further research.

Comparison of the effectiveness of three different rhinoplasty techniques to correct stenotic nostrils using silicone models: A case study.

To compare the effects of three different rhinoplasty techniques on the postoperative cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of the nares and nasal vestibuli. Experimental study. Ninety-nine 3D-printed, remolded silicone models of a single French bulldog's rostral nose. Models were fabricated based on a computed tomographic (CT) scan of the nose of a French bulldog with moderately stenotic nares. Each model underwent either vertical wedge resection (VW), modified horizontal wedge resection (MHW), or ala-vestibuloplasty (AVP) performed by a single surgeon (n = 33 per group). Preoperative and postoperative CT scans of the models were performed, and CSAs of the airway from the nares to the caudal end of the nasal vestibules were calculated. All three rhinoplasty techniques increased CSAs (adjusted p values <.001) but to different levels caudally within the nasal vestibule. Vertical wedge resection achieved this up to the start of the alar fold, MHW up to halfway between the nares and the alar fold and AVP up to the caudal nasal vestibule. Average percentage increases in CSA were 26%, 15% and 74%, respectively. Ala-vestibuloplasty led to larger CSAs than VW and MHW from the nares to the caudal nasal vestibule (adjusted p values <.05). The proportional difference within each technique was <7%. Ala-vestibuloplasty resulted in a larger increase in the airway CSA of silicone modeled nares and nasal vestibules of a single French bulldog in comparison with VW and MHW. Ala-vestibuloplasty can be considered for French bulldogs with moderately stenotic nares and evidence of nasal vestibular stenosis.

Relationships of cross-sectional area of the thigh muscles before or after total knee arthroplasty with postoperative pain or patient satisfaction: A retrospective, exploratory study

BackgroundIt has been suggested that lower limb strength related to persistent postsurgical pain. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships of pre-operative or postoperative cross-sectional area (CSA) of the thigh muscles with knee pain or patient satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). MethodsTwenty patients who had undergone TKA (3 men and 17 women; mean age 75.2 ± 8.7 years) were included. CSAs of the thigh muscle (THIGH) and quadriceps muscle (QUAD) were retrospectively measured at the CT slice 10-cm superior to the quadriceps tendon insertion at the proximal pole of the patella. THIGH CSA and QUAD CSA to body weight ratios (mm2/kg), THIGH/W and QUAD/W ratios, respectively, were calculated. Knee pain and patient satisfaction postoperatively were also quantified by patient-reported measurements based on the 2011 Knee Society Score (KSS). The correlations between the THIGH/W and QUAD/W ratios and the KSS were evaluated using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. ResultsThe preoperative THIGH/W ratio was positively correlated with KSS-pain, (r = 0.58, p < 0.05). The preoperative QUAD/W ratio was positively correlated with KSS-pain (r = 0.52, p < 0.05) and KSS-satisfaction (r = 0.44, p < 0.05). The postoperative THIGH/W ratio was positively correlated with KSS-pain (r = 0.45, p < 0.05). The postoperative QUAD/W ratio was positively correlated with KSS-pain (r = 0.49, p < 0.05) and KSS-satisfaction (r = 0.48, p < 0.05). ConclusionThere were significant correlations between quadriceps or thigh muscle CSA and pain or patient satisfaction after TKA. This research may help relieve pain and increase patient satisfaction after TKA in the future.

Lamina Abrasion Caused by High-Speed Drill in Unilateral Door Cervical Laminoplasty: A Clinical Investigation.

BACKGROUND The association of laminar opening extent (LOE) with sagittal canal diameter (SCD) and the cross-sectional area (CSA) in unilateral door cervical laminoplasty (UDCL) was previously analyzed. However, the lamina abrasion has been neglected, which could lead to unreliable results. The present study aims to develop the concept of effective laminar opening extent (ELOE) with consideration of the lamina abrasion and to analyze the relationships between ELOE and SCD as well as the CSA of the spinal canal. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 138 patients treated by UDCL were included. Pre- and postoperative SCDs and CSAs and cervical Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores were compared to verify the effectiveness of the surgery. Linear and curvilinear regression models were used to assess the association between postoperative SCD/CSA increases and ELOE. RESULTS All surgeries were successfully performed. A total of 602 mini-plates were used, and 12-mm mini-plates was the most often used (n=402, 66.78%), while 16-mm were used the least (n=25, 4.15%). The SCDs, CSAs, and JOA scores were increased significantly after surgery (P0.939, P0.938, P.

Comparative Study of Different Entry Spots on Postoperative Gluteus Medius Muscle Cross-Sectional Area in Patients With Intertrochanteric Fractures Nailing.

Introduction In a preliminary study of cephalo-medullary (CM) nailing in patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures, the authors of this study found a 25% to 30% decrease in muscle strength, especially abduction force, during the postoperative follow-up period. This decline was partially attributed to the entry point for the nail insertion causing damage to the gluteus medius tendon at the junction of the greater trochanter after reaming. Therefore, we assumed that changing the position of nail insertion to a "bald spot (BS)" could mitigate postoperative functional impairment. Automated computed tomography (CT) imaging of skeletal muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and adipose tissue ratio (ATR) can show pathological changes on the operated side compared with the non-operated side. In this study, the authors quantified the difference in postoperative CSA and ATR of the gluteus medius muscle after bald spot nailing versus nail insertion through the conventional tip of the greater trochanter. It was hypothesized that bald spot nailing could avoid significant injury to the gluteus medius muscle. Materials and methods Patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures were grouped according to the site of cephalo-medullary nailing: greater trochanteric tip (TIP) in 27 patients (8 men and 19 women, mean age 84.9±5.1 years) and BSin 16 patients (3 men and 13 women, mean age 86.9±6.2 years). The CSA and ATR of the gluteus medius muscles were assessed in three slices (A, B, and C from proximal to distal). Each slice was manually traced and automatically calculated based on its contour. Adipose tissue (-100 to -50 in Hounsfield units) in the designated area was distinguished by a bimodal image histogram resulting from the distribution of CT numbers of adipose tissue and muscle. The body mass index (BMI) was used to correct the CSA in each patient. Results In the TIP group, the mean CSA values (mm2) from the non-operated/operated sides were as follows: slice A, 2180.2 ± 616.5/1976.3 ± 421.2; slice B, 2112.3 ± 535.7/1857.7 ± 386.7; and slice C: 1671.8 ± 460.0/1404.1 ± 404.3 (p<0.01 in slices A, B, and C). In the BS group, slice A was 2044.1 ± 473.0/2016.9 ± 388.4; slice B was 2073.2 ± 540.7/1848.3 ± 411.1; and slice C was 1659.1 ± 477.2/1468.5 ± 341.7 (p=0.34 in slice A, and p<0.05 in slices B and C, respectively). The mean CSA values (mm2) of the non-operated minus operated side between the TIP/BS groups were as follows: slice A, 241.3 ± 424.3/-11.8 ± 285.6; slice B, 290.3 ± 313.0/211.8 ± 333.2; and slice C, 276.4 ± 270.4/162.8 ± 319.3 (p < 0.05 in slice A, 0.45, 0.24 in slices B, C, respectively). The mean adjusted CSA per BMI values (mm2) of the non-operated minus the operated side between the TIP/BS groups were slice A, 10.6 ± 19.7/-0.4 ± 14.8; slice B, 13.3 ± 15.0/10.1 ± 16.3; and slice C, 13.1 ± 13.4/ 8.7 ± 15.3 (p < 0.05 in slice A and 0.54 and 0.36 in slices B and C, respectively). Conclusion Nail insertion at the bald spot resulted in a significantly smaller decrease in the CSA of the gluteus medius muscle compared with the conventional tip entry. In addition, an examination of BMI-adjusted CSA showed that CSA was maintained in some image slices. These results suggest that nailing from the BS of the greater trochanter can reduce damage to the gluteus medius muscle and highlight the importance of imaging beyond the usual assessment of skeletal changes.

Internal Nasal Valve Modification via Correction of High Dorsal Deviation Using a Modified Mattress Suture Technique.

High dorsal deviation of the septum can cause nasal obstruction due to internal nasal valve (INV) stenosis. We have developed a new technique using a modified mattress suture on the bony-cartilaginous junction to correct high dorsal septal deviation. This study focused on the effect of this suturing technique on the modification of the INV. We enrolled 40 patients who underwent septoplasty using a modified mattress suture technique. We retrospectively analyzed the data of the preoperative and postoperative INV angles and cross-sectional areas (CSAs), which were measured using computed tomography. In addition, we compared the patients’ subjective nasal symptoms, which were measured with the preoperative and postoperative Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) instrument. Postoperative increases in the narrow side INV angle and CSA were achieved. Additionally, the wide side INV angle and CSA were significantly decreased postoperatively. The INV and CSA ratio (wide/narrow) were also decreased postoperatively and were brought closer to 1. The subjective nasal symptoms also exhibited significantly reduced NOSE values. In this study, we confirmed the effects of septoplasty using a modified mattress suture technique for INV modification through the comparison of the preoperative and postoperative INV angles and CSAs.

Comparison of time-dependent resistance isometric exercise and active range of motion exercise in alleviating the sensitization of postoperative axial pain after cervical laminoplasty

BackgroundPostoperative axial pain (PAP) is a significant complication after cervical laminoplasty. ObjectiveTo investigate pain sensitization in PAP patients and effects of time-dependent resistance isometric exercise compared to active range-of-motion exercise on PAP. Study designRetrospective cohort analysis. Methods211 patients undergoing postoperative 12-week exercises were evaluated for pressure pain threshold (PPT), temporal summation (TS) and both cross-sectional area and fatty infiltration of paraspinal muscles preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. There patients underwent Numeric rating pain scale (NRS) and neck disability index (NDI) 3 and 6 months postoperatively. ResultsAt postoperative 3-month assessments, fewer patients undergoing isometric exercise showed PAP compared to range-of-motion exercise group (14/98 vs. 34/113; P = 0.006), and pain-related assessments in the former were lower than the latter (NRS at rest: 0.3 ± 0.8 vs. 0.7 ± 1.4, P = 0.014; NRS with movements: 0.4 ± 1.0 vs. 1.0 ± 1.7, P = 0.015; NDI: 2.4 ± 6.3 vs. 6.7 ± 10.9, P = 0.002). Postoperative cross-sectional area was smaller in isometric exercise group (603.5 ± 190.2) than in range-of-motion exercise group (678.7 ± 215.5) (P = 0.033), and the former showed higher local-area PPT and lower TS than the latter (PPT: 3.9 ± 1.8 vs. 3.1 ± 1.6, P = 0.002; TS: 1.8 ± 0.9 vs. 2.2 ± 1.0, P = 0.003). PAP patients showed lower local-area PPT and greater TS than those without PAP in both isometric (PPT: 2.8 ± 0.7 vs. 4.0 ± 1.9, P = 0.019; TS: 2.4 ± 0.6 vs. 1.7 ± 0.9, P = 0.011) and range-of-motion (PPT: 2.2 ± 0.9 vs. 3.6 ± 1.7, P < 0.001; TS: 2.8 ± 0.8 vs. 1.9 ± 0.9, P < 0.001) exercise groups. ConclusionsBoth peripheral and central sensitization are involved in PAP. Time-dependent isometric exercise has more positive effects on PAP than range-of-motion exercise because of its advantages in improving pain sensitization.

A Clinical Pilot Study Showing the Safety and Efficacy of Intramuscular Injection of Atelocollagen for Prevention of Paraspinal Muscle Atrophy after Spine Surgery

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of intramuscular injection of atelocollagen for the prevention of paraspinal muscle atrophy after spine surgery. Atelcollagen has been widely used as an intradermal filler to restore soft tissue defect. Many studies demonstrated that atelocollagen provides good therapeutic results by promoting cell proliferation and enhances the healing effect on injured connective tissues such as tendons and fasciae, while causing few complications. Methods: A total of 118 patients who underwent single level of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PILF) between December 2017 and April 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. In the study group of 60 patients, 3 mL of gel-type 3% atelocollagen solution was prepared and injected into the multifidus muscle during wound closure. Clinical efficacy was evaluated by the improvement of back pain, elevation of a muscle enzyme, and inflammatory markers. Radiologic efficacy was evaluated with a comparison of density and cross-sectional area (CSA) of multifidus and erector spinae muscle in CT images. Results: Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for back pain was not significantly lower in the study group postoperatively compared with the control group. The reduction of postoperative paraspinal muscle density and CSA was significantly lower in the study group. The serum level of muscle enzyme and inflammatory markers were significantly lower in the study group. No major procedure-related complications were observed during the follow-up period.Conclusion: Intramuscular injection of atelocollagen is safe and feasible for the prevention of paraspinal muscle atrophy after spine surgery. This novel method seems advantageous for accelerating wound healing without causing inflammation.

Ultrasonographic Measurement of Median Nerve Cross-Sectional Area in Evaluating Carpal Tunnel Release Outcomes

Earlier research has explored carpal tunnel release (CTR) surgery outcomes using electrodiagnostic tests (EDX). However, evaluation of the median nerve before and after CTR by ultrasound (US) is understudied. This study aimed to establish the outcomes of CTR by EDX and US, and examine the correlation between the clinical improvement and US after CTR. The sample consisted of 172 wrists that underwent CTR. Pain was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS). The Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ), including the symptom severity and function subscales, was applied before and 3 months after CTR. The proximal and distal cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of the median nerve were measured using US, and EDX was performed before and 3 months after CTR. Patients had mean preoperative and postoperative VAS scores of 7.7 ± 1.2 and 1.7 ± 1.2, respectively. The mean preoperative and postoperative proximal CSA measurements were 16.4 ± 4.5 mm2 and 12.1 ± 3.9 mm2, respectively. The mean preoperative and postoperative distal CSA measurements were 13.6 ± 3.7 mm2 and 11.0 ± 3.1 mm2, respectively. A significant improvement was observed in VAS, BCTQ, and EDX 3 months after CTR. A weak, positive correlation was observed between the improvement in the BCTQ symptom severity and function subscales and CSAs following CTR. The results of this study demonstrate that preoperative median nerve CSA values may be used in evaluating CTR outcomes. Therapeutic IV.

The association between changes in multifidus muscle morphology and back pain scores following discectomy surgery for lumbar disc herniation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To evaluate the impact of discectomy on back muscles (e.g. multifidus muscle (MM)) morphology in patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH) following discectomy surgery, address the association of back muscles morphology with pain score preoperatively and post-operatively, and investigate the relationships between the changes from pre- to post-operative back muscles measurements and pain score (primary outcome) and disability score (secondary outcome) change following discectomy if any. We searched three online databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. In LDH patients, eligible for discectomy surgery, pre- and post-operative and the changes from pre- to post-operative of back and/or leg pain with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and multifidus muscle morphology, were considered as primary outcomes. Cochrane Risk-of-Bias 2 tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) were used to assess the methodological quality of RCTs and observational studies, respectively. Standardize mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was evaluated. A meta-regression analysis was conducted. GRADE approach was used to summarize the strength of evidence. One RCT and five observational studies were included in the analysis of 489 patients with LDH undergoing discectomy surgery. The mean overall follow-up was 64.9weeks (6 to 148.7weeks). There was a significant negative relationship between the change from pre- to post-operative cross-sectional area (CSA) in MM and change in VAS back pain [regression coefficient = -0.01, (95% CI = -0.02, -0.01), p = 0.044] after discectomy surgery. No significant relationship between preoperative CSA in MM and preoperative/post-operative clinical (any of the follow-up periods) scores could be established. The results of this study found very low-quality grade evidence for an association between higher reduction of CSA in MM and less reductions of back pain scores following discectomy surgery for patients with LDH. Due to the heterogeneity and methodological limitations, further studies will improve understanding and aid preoperative counselling.

Critical points and effectiveness of prophylactic C4/5 foraminotomy to prevent C5 palsy after posterior cervical spine surgery.

The aim of this study was to clarify the cut-off values of the spinal canal parameters as risk factors for C5 palsy after posterior cervical spine surgery with and without foraminotomy. One hundred three consecutive patients (67 males, 36 females; mean age = 66 years, age range = 27-87 years) with cervical myelopathy who underwent posterior cervical spine surgery at our institution were retrospectively reviewed and included in the study. The first consecutive 69 patients who underwent posterior cervical spine surgery with prophylactic bilateral C4/5 foraminotomy were designated as the F (+) group. The subsequent 34 consecutive patients who underwent posterior cervical spine surgery without prophylactic bilateral C4/5 foraminotomy were designated as the F (-) group. All patients were then divided into four subgroups. In the F (+) group, patients with C5 palsy were designated as the F (+) P (+) subgroup (n = 13), while those without C5 palsy were designated as the F (+) P (-) subgroup (n = 56). In the F (-) group, patients with C5 palsy were designated as the F (-) P (+) subgroup (n = 5), while those without C5 palsy were designated as the F (-)P(-) subgroup (n = 29). Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to investigate the cut-off values of the spinal canal parameters for the development of postoperative C5 palsy. The assessed spinal parameters were the gutter positions (GP), laminar inclination angles (LIA), and postoperative cross-sectional areas (CSA) of the dural sac. The risk ratios (RR) of the spinal canal parameters as risk factors for C5 palsy were evaluated. The incidence of C5 palsy was similar between the F (+) group (18.8%) and the F (-) group (14.7%). The cut-off values for each spinal canal parameter in the F (+) group (GP: 0.82-0.84, LIA: 58.9-62.4°, and CSA: 189.5-200 mm2 ) were similar to those in the F (-) group (0.81-0.89, 61.7-62.5°, and 197.5-199.5 mm2, respectively). In the RR results for C5 palsy, the LIA was highest in both groups. The F (+) P (-) subgroup had significantly larger mean CSA at C4/5 and C5/6 (202.3 mm2 and 200.9 mm2, respectively) than the F (-)P(-) subgroup (177.3 mm2 and 178.9 mm2, respectively) (P = 0.0181 and P = 0.0277, respectively). Prophylactic C4/5 foraminotomy did not specifically prevent postoperative C5 palsy due to foraminal stenosis at C4/5. C4/5 foraminotomy should not be recommended for avoidance of C5 palsy. Although the bony spinal parameters were similar between the F (+) and F (-) groups, the CSA in the F (+) group was significantly than that in the F (-) group in the patients without C5 palsy.

204. A clinical pilot study showing the safety and efficacy of intramuscular injection of atelocollagen for prevention of paraspinal muscle atrophy after spine surgery

<h3>BACKGROUND CONTEXT</h3> Atelocollagen has been widely used as an intradermal filler to restore soft tissue defects. Many studies demonstrated that atelocollagen provides good therapeutic results by promoting cell proliferation and enhances the healing effect on injured muscles and connective tissues such as tendons and fasciae while causing few complications. <h3>PURPOSE</h3> This clinical study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of intramuscular injection of atelocollagen for the prevention of paraspinal muscle atrophy after spine surgery. <h3>STUDY DESIGN/SETTING</h3> Retrospective observational study. <h3>PATIENT SAMPLE</h3> A total of 118 patients who underwent single- or two-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PILF) between December 2017 and April 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. <h3>OUTCOME MEASURES</h3> Clinical efficacy was evaluated by the improvement of back pain, elevation of a muscle enzyme, and inflammatory markers. Radiologic efficacy was evaluated with a comparison of density and cross-sectional area (CSA) of multifidus and erector spinae muscle in CT images. The safety was assessed with vital sign monitoring and a survey on all adverse events over 12 weeks. <h3>METHODS</h3> In the study group of 30 patients, 3mL of gel-type 3% atelocollagen solution was prepared and injected into the multifidus muscle during wound closure. <h3>RESULTS</h3> Significant improvement of back pain was observed in all patients after the surgery. VAS for back pain was not significantly lower in the study group postoperatively compared with the control group. The reduction of postoperative paraspinal muscle density and CSA was significantly lower in the study group. The serum level of muscle enzyme and inflammatory markers were significantly lower in the study group. No major procedure-related complications were observed during the follow-up period. <h3>CONCLUSIONS</h3> Intramuscular injection of atelocollagen is safe and feasible for the prevention of paraspinal muscle atrophy after spine surgery. This novel method seems advantageous for accelerating wound healing without causing inflammation. Randomized controlled trials with larger data samples are needed to confirm the results. <h3>FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS</h3> This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

Assessment of the Preserved Biceps Tendon After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair in Patients ≤ 55 Years

PurposeWe assessed hypertrophy of preserved long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) and vascularity in the bicipital groove after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in ≤55-year-old patients and compared postoperative pain between shoulders with or without vascularity in the bicipital groove.MethodsPatients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between 2015 and 2017 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria were arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and ≤55 years old. Exclusion criteria were a history of contralateral rotator cuff repair, revision surgery, partial repair or superior capsular reconstruction, shoulder dislocation or fracture, torn LHBT at surgery, LHBT tenodesis, retears, <1-year follow-up, and incomplete follow-up data. Cross-sectional area (CSA) of the LHBT and vascularity in the bicipital groove were examined preoperatively and 1 year after surgery using ultrasonography. Shoulder pain at postoperative 1 year was assessed using the pain subscore of the University of California at Los Angeles scale. The data were compared between shoulders with negative and positive vascularity.ResultsFifty-seven shoulders were included in this study. There was no side-to-side difference in preoperative CSA. No difference was found between preoperative and postoperative CSA in the affected shoulders. Postoperative vascularity was identified in 28 (49%) shoulders. Mean pain score was significantly higher in the negative vascularity group than the positive vascularity group (9 and 8, respectively; P = .002).ConclusionsThe preserved LHBT did not show hypertrophy 1 year after arthroscopic repair of medium-sized or smaller posterosuperior rotator cuff tear in ≤55-year-old patients. However, 49% of the shoulders postoperatively demonstrated lower-grade vascularity in the bicipital groove. Healthy LHBT can be preserved in ≤55-year-old patients with posterosuperior medium-sized or smaller rotator cuff tears.Level of EvidenceIII, retrospective comparative prognostic trial

Volume of Gluteus Maximus and Minimus Increases After Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome

To investigate the change in muscle volume around the hip in patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) after arthroscopy and evaluate other factors related to muscle change. We performed a retrospective review of magnetic resonance imaging data of patients with FAI who underwent hip arthroscopy. Magnetic resonance imaging was obtained pre- and postoperatively. The cross-sectional area (CSA) of muscles were determined on axial images. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to determine the differences between pre- and postoperative hip muscle CSA. The correlations of change in muscle CSA with age, sex, body mass index, pain level, preoperative symptom duration, follow-up time, and multiple validated patient-reported outcomes were also analyzed with a Spearman rank correlation test. Fifty-one patients with a mean age of 36.5 ± 5.6 years were included and analyzed. The follow-up was 26.6 ± 0.5 months (range, 24-40 months), and 27 (52.9%) were women. Patients with FAI showed increased hip muscle CSA of gluteus maximus (P= .002) and gluteus minimus (P= .001). Post- compared with preoperative, the value for the change in medius CSA was underpowered, and no differences in other hip muscle CSAs were observed. The increased muscle CSA of the gluteus maximus was significantly correlated with the improvement of modified Harris Hip Score (ρ= 0.404; P= .003). The increased muscle CSA of the gluteus minimus was significantly correlated with the improvement of pain Visual Analog Scale (ρ= 0.452; P= .001). Age, body mass index, sex, symptom duration, and follow-up time were not significantly correlated with change in muscle CSA. Patients with FAI have a significantly increased postoperative muscle CSA of the gluteus maximus (7.8%) and the gluteus minimus (11.6%) compared with preoperative values. The increased muscle CSA of the gluteus maximus and gluteus minimus was significantly correlated with improvement in modified Harris Hip Score and pain Visual Analog Scale, respectively. The increase of muscle volume may be associated with the improvement of subjective function and pain relief. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Chronological changes in cross-sectional area of the bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft after anatomic rectangular tunnel ACL reconstruction.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in cross-sectional area (CSA) of bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB) autografts up to 5years after the anatomic rectangular tunnel (ART) anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The changing pattern in CSA might be a potential indicator of the graft remodeling process. Ninety-six (62 males, 34 females, mean age 27.0years) patients were enrolled in this study with a total of 220 MRI scans after ART BTB ACLR to evaluate the CSA of the ACL autografts. The patients with first time unilateral ACLR that consented to undergo MRI evaluations at postoperative periods were included in this study. Intraoperatively, the CSA of the graft was measured directly using a custom-made area micrometer at the midpoint of the graft. Postoperatively, using an oblique axial slice MRI that was perpendicular to the long axis of the graft, the CSA of the graft was measured with digital radiology viewing program "SYNAPSE" at the midpoint of the graft. The postoperative MRI scans were classified into seven groups according to the period from ACLR to MRI evaluation: Group 0-2months (m.), Group 3-6m., Group 7-12m., Group 1-2years (y.), Group 2-3y., Group 3-4y., and Group 4y.-. The percent increase of the CSA was calculated by dividing the postoperative CSA by the intraoperative CSA. The postoperative CSA was significantly larger than the intraoperative CSA in each group, with the exception of Group 0-2m. The mean percent increase of the CSA in Group 0-2m., 3-6m., 7-12m., 1-2y., 2-3y., 3-4y., 4y.- was 101.8 ± 18.2, 188.9 ± 27.4, 190.9 ± 43.7, 183.3 ± 28.9, 175.2 ± 27.9, 163.9 ± 19.8, 164.5 ± 25.4% respectively. The percent increase in Group 3-6m., 7-12m., 1-2y., 2-3y., 3-4y., and 4y.- was significantly greater than that in Group 0-2m. The CSA of the BTB autografts after the ART BTB ACLR increases rapidly by 3-6months after ACLR, reached a maximum value of 190% at around 1year, decreases gradually after that, and reaches a plateau at around 3years. The current study might help clinicians to estimate an individual BTB autograft's remodeling stages when considering returning patients to sports. IV.

What happens to the long head of the biceps tendon after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?

The purpose of this study was to identify the changes in untreated long head of the biceps brachii tendon (LHBT) after a rotator cuff tear and to evaluate the factors related to the changes. A cohort of 162 patients who underwent isolated supraspinatus with the preservation of LHBT was enrolled and evaluated. The cross-sectional area (CSA) of the LHBT on MRI was measured in the bicipital groove, and preoperative to postoperative difference was calculated at least 12 months postoperatively. Second, postoperative changes in the LHBT including intratendinous signal change, rupture, dislocation, or superior labral lesions were evaluated with seeking of factors that were correlated with the changes or newly developed lesions after rotator cuff repair. The postoperative CSA (12.5 mm2 (SD 8.3) was significantly larger than preoperative CSA (11.5 mm2 (SD 7.5); p = 0.005). In total, 32 patients (19.8%) showed morphological changes in the untreated LHBT 24 months after rotator cuff repair. Univariate regression analysis revealed that the factor chiefly related to the change in LHBT status was an eccentric LHBT position within the groove found on preoperative MRI (p = 0.011). Multivariate analysis using logistic regression also revealed that an eccentric LHBT position was a factor related to postoperative change in untreated LHBTs (p = 0.011). The CSA of the LHBT inside the biceps groove increased after rotator cuff repair. The preoperative presence of an eccentrically positioned LHBT was associated with further changes of the tendon itself after rotator cuff repair. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1194-1199.