Postoperative Oswestry Disability Index Research Articles

The Disaggregated Oswestry Disability Index: What is the Most Predictive Subsection for Patient Satisfaction After Lumbar Surgery?

Retrospective review of cohort studies. To analyze how different ODI subsections and their improvement affect patient satisfaction 2 years after elective lumbar surgery for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS). The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) is crucial in evaluating outcomes of spinal disorders and provides valuable insights into a patient's preoperative status. There is limited information available on the individual characteristics of its subsections and their relation to postoperative patient satisfaction. Pre- and 2-year postoperative ODI and patient satisfaction were assessed. The analysis included preoperative scores and improvements in each ODI subsection 2 years postoperatively. Satisfaction was rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with scores ≥4 deemed satisfactory. Univariate linear regression and ROC analysis established cutoffs for subsection improvement and postoperative target values to achieve postoperative satisfaction. 265 patients (60% female, 67±8 years) were included. ODI improvement was achieved in 91%, and postoperative patient satisfaction in 73%. Patients with lower postoperative subsection scores and greater differences between pre- and postoperative scores were more likely to be satisfied (all P<0.001). A postoperative subsection target score of ≤1 was associated with patient satisfaction. Change in degree of pain was the most predictive subsection for satisfaction, with an AUC of 0.84 (sensitivity 79%, specificity 86%). Walking (AUC 0.83, sensitivity 87%, specificity 65%), pain intensity (AUC 0.82, sensitivity 79%, specificity 79%), personal care (AUC 0.82, sensitivity 83%, specificity 68%), and standing (AUC 0.82, sensitivity 83%, specificity 83%) all had an AUC greater than 0.80. The postoperative subsection with the lowest predictability was sleeping (AUC 0.69). Pain domains, walking, standing, and personal care were the subsections with the highest predictability for patient satisfaction. These findings on the correlation between different ODI subscales and patient satisfaction are valuable for improving preoperative education, addressing disability, and ensuring postoperative satisfaction.

Comparison of transforaminal endoscopic lumbar foraminotomy (TELF) in patients with degenerative scoliosis and patients with normal alignment

Objectives Transforaminal endoscopic lumbar foraminotomy (TELF) is a well-described method of treating foraminal stenosis. However, there is little literature examining the usage of TELF to treat foraminal stenosis in patients with degenerative scoliosis. TELF is an attractive option for such patients as it results in lesser blood loss, shorter recovery time, and lower infection rates as compared to fusion surgery. However, TELF neither corrects the deformity nor alters the natural history of the disease. Therefore, the outcomes of TELF in patients with degenerative scoliosis may be worse than those without deformities. This study aims to compare the outcomes of TELF in these two groups of patients. Material and Methods This is a retrospective study of 19 patients who underwent TELF from July 2012 to April 2015. Eight patients had degenerative scoliosis, and 11 were without scoliosis. Visual analog scale and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were collected at 3 months postsurgery. Patient outcomes were graded as excellent, good, fair, and poor using a modified MacNab’s criteria. Results Both groups had significant improvements in back pain, leg pain, and ODI scores postoperatively. There were no differences between the two groups when comparing the preoperative and postoperative back pain, leg pain, and ODI scores. The majority of patients rated their outcomes as excellent or good. Conclusion The short-term outcomes of TELF in patients with degenerative scoliosis are comparable to those without scoliosis. Improvements in back and leg pain after surgery are expected. We recommend it as a palliative treatment for patients who are unable to undergo major surgery.

The Impact of Paraspinal Muscle Degeneration on Oswestry Disability Index Subsections Two Years After Spinal Surgery for Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis.

Secondary analysis of prospective study. To investigate the impact of fatty infiltration (FI) in the paraspinal muscles (PM) on postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) subsection-scores in patients undergoing elective lumbar surgery for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS). DLS can increase FI in the PM like the multifidus (MF), erector spinae (ES), and psoas (PS), leading to greater spinal disability and higher ODI-scores. It is unclear if increased PM FI affects all ODI subsections equally. This study reviewed data from a single-center cohort of DLS-patients who underwent elective lumbar surgery. Overall ODI and the subsection scores were prospectively assessed before and 2 years post-surgery. FI of the PS, MF, and ES was measured using T2-weighted MRI images. The relationship between PM FI and postoperative ODI subsections were analyzed, using multivariable linear regression analysis. Overall, 229 patients (59% female, mean age of 67±8y) were included with an overall baseline ODI of 50[40-62] and a postoperative ODI of 16.[2-34] The highest preoperative subsection-scores were seen in pain intensity (4[2-4]), changing degree of pain (4[3-4]), lifting (4[1-5]), and standing (4[3-4]). PM-measurements showed a mean FI of 41±10% for ES, 58±15% for MF, and 6±5% for PS. Patients with increased ES FI were more likely to show higher postoperative scores in all ODI subsections and in the overall ODI (Est=0.45, 95%CI 0.20-0.71, P=0.004). Increased MF FI was significantly associated with higher postoperative ODI subsection scores in standing (Est=0.02, 95%CI 0.01-0.03, P=0.033) and walking (Est=0.02, 95%CI 0.01-0.03, P=0.017). Increased erector spinae fatty infiltration is significantly associated with higher ODI scores across all subsections 2 years after lumbar surgery, while higher multifidus fatty infiltration is linked to greater disability in standing and walking. These findings underscore the need to maintain paraspinal muscle health to improve surgical planning, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and reduce postoperative disability.

Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Discectomy versus Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy in the Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation Linked with Posterior Ring Apophysis Separation: A Retrospective Study

ObjectivesPosterior ring apophysis separation (PRAS) associated with lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a relatively rare form of disc herniation. This study aims to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy (UBE) and percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) in the treatment of PRAS with LDH. MethodsWe enrolled 41 patients who met the inclusion criteria to undergo either unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy (UBE) (15 cases) or percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) (26 cases) between October 2022 and October 2023. Perioperative evaluation parameters included mean operative time, hemoglobin (Hb) loss, length of stay (LOS), and postoperative complications. Outcomes were assessed at admission, as well as at 1, 3, and 6 months post-surgery using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Additionally, we evaluated the results according to the modified MacNab criteria. ResultsBoth groups demonstrated improvements in postoperative VAS and ODI scores. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in VAS and ODI scores before surgery, or at 1, 3, and 6 months post-surgery. Additionally, no notable differences were observed in the modified MacNab criteria. The UBE group experienced greater hemoglobin (Hb) loss, longer mean operative time, and increased length of stay (LOS) compared to the PELD group. Furthermore, two patients in the PELD group reported recurrence, while one patient in the UBE group experienced a dural tear. ConclusionsUBE and PELD possess strong clinical effectiveness for treating PRAS with LDH. Although the UBE group had a longer mean operative time and LOS, with more Hb loss, the UBE group had a lower recurrence rate. Therefore, UBE remains safe and innovative for the treatment of PRAS with LDH.

Redefining Oswestry Disability Index success criteria to assess the effect of consecutive surgeries on lumbar spinal stenosis

BACKGROUNDRegister studies have shown that chances of success after surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) decrease with increasing numbers of previous operations. However, these studies presumed that success criteria remain constant with each consecutive spinal surgery. PURPOSEWe aimed to redefine success criteria specific for each consecutive surgery. Also, we assessed if fusion could be an effective procedure for LSS patients with previous decompression(s). STUDY DESIGNWe retrospectively analyzed prospectively collected patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) from surgically treated LSS patients enrolled in The NORspine Register. PATIENT SAMPLEPatients operated for lumbar spinal stenosis. OUTCOME MEASURESPROMs: Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) percentage (%) change and Global Perceived Effect (GPE). METHODSWe categorized the LSS cohort by number of previous spine surgeries (none to ≥3). ROC analyses gave the most accurate cut-offs for ODI% change that corresponded to success, anchored by GPE, i.e., “much improved” and “completely recovered”. Areas under the ROC curves (AUCs) indicated how well ODI discriminated between success and nonsuccess for each consecutive surgery: good (0.8–0.89) and excellent (0.9–0.99). We then calculated proportions of successfully treated patients by number of consecutive surgeries. We also analyzed whether fusion succeeded in patients with previous lumbar decompression(s). RESULTSAt 12 months, 8,919 (75%) responded; 6,961 (78%) had no previous LSS surgery, 1,338 (15%) had one, 417 (5%) had 2, and 203 (2%) had ≥3 previous surgeries. Preoperative ODI (95% CI) was 38.7 (38.2–39.1) for no previous surgery versus 49.4 (46.9–51.9) for patients with ≥3 previous surgeries. The postoperative ODIs (95% CI) were 21.9 (21.4–22.4) and 37.9 (34.9–40.8) for patients with no and ≥3 previous surgeries, respectively.For patients with no previous surgeries, ODI% change of 37.6% most accurately defined success (AUC [95% CI]=0.909 [0.903–0.916]), and 57.1% reported success. For patients with ≥3 previous surgeries, success was an ODI% change of 25.0% (AUC [95%CI]=0.930 [0.890–0.971]), and 46.3% reported success.Finally, 350 patients received fusion after previous decompression(s). ODI% change of 34.6% defined success (AUC [95% CI]=0.920 [0.890–0.949]). The proportion of successfully treated fusion patients was 47.7%, compared to 54.3% for the entire cohort. CONCLUSIONSWe redefined ODI success criteria for patients with consecutive lumbar spinal stenosis surgeries. Our register study found the detrimental effect of consecutive surgeries on success rates to be less pessimistic than previously reported; fusion may be an effective option for LSS patients with previous decompression.

Decompression alone or fusion in single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis? A systematic review and meta analysis

PurposeThe objective of this systematic review and metaanalysis is to compare the efficacy and safety of decompression alone versus decompression plus fusion in single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis.MethodsA comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Ovid Medline databases was conducted to find randomized control trials (RCTs) or cohort studies that compared decompression alone and decompression plus fusion in single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis. Operation time; reoperation; postoperative complications; postoperative Oswestry disability index(ODI) scores and scores related to back and leg pain were collected from eligible studies for meta-analysis.ResultsWe included 3 randomized controlled trials and 9 cohort studies with 6182 patients. The decompression alone group showed less operative time(P < 0.001) and intraoperative blood loss(p = 0.000), and no significant difference in postoperative complications was observed in randomized controlled trials(p = 0.428) or cohort studies(p = 0.731). There was no significant difference between the other two groups in reoperation(P = 0.071), postoperative ODI scores and scores related to back and leg pain.ConclusionsIn this study, we found that the decompression alone group performed better in terms of operation time and intraoperative blood loss, and there was no significant difference between the two surgical methods in rate of reoperation and postoperative complications, ODI, low back pain and leg pain. Therefore, we come to the conclusion that decompression alone is not inferior to decompression and fusion in patients with single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis.

Clinical application of a modified wiltse approach in middle and lower thoracic vertebrae: a case-control study of thoracic fracture patients

BackgroundThe Wiltse approach has been extensively employed in thoracolumbar surgeries due to its minimal muscle damage. However, in the middle and lower thoracic spine, the conventional Wiltse approach necessitates the severance of the latissimus dorsi and trapezius muscles, potentially leading to muscular injury. Consequently, we propose a modified Wiltse approach for the middle and lower thoracic vertebrae, which may further mitigate muscular damage.MethodsFrom May 2018 to April 2022, 60 patients with spinal fractures in the middle and lower thoracic vertebrae (T5-12) were enrolled in this study. Thirty patients underwent surgery using the modified Wiltse approach (Group A), while the remaining 30 patients received traditional posterior surgery (Group B). The observation indices included operation time, intraoperative blood loss, incision length, number of C-arm exposures, postoperative drainage, postoperative ambulation time, discharge time, as well as preoperative and postoperative Cobb’s angle, percentage of anterior vertebral body height (PAVBH), visual analog scale (VAS) Score, and Oswestry disability index (ODI).ResultsCompared to the traditional posterior approach, the modified Wiltse approach demonstrated significant advantages in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, length of incision, postoperative ambulation time, postoperative drainage, and discharge time, as well as postoperative VAS and ODI scores. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of number of C-arm exposures, postoperative Cobb’s angle, or postoperative PAVBH.ConclusionWe propose a modification of the Wiltse approach for the middle and lower thoracic vertebral regions, which may further minimize muscular damage and facilitate the recovery of patients who have undergone surgery in the middle and lower thoracic vertebrae.

Comparison of Full Endoscopic Lumbar Diskectomy Using the Transforaminal Approach versus Interlaminar Approach for L5-S1 Lumbar Disk Herniation Treatment: A Meta-Analysis.

Numerous studies have examined the clinical effectiveness of transforaminal full endoscopic lumbar diskectomy (T-FELD) and interlaminar full endoscopic lumbar diskectomy (I-FELD) for L5-S1 lumbar disk herniation (LDH), with mixed findings. The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the perioperative outcomes, clinical results, and complications of T-FELD and I-FELD to determine their efficacy and safety for treating L5-S1 LDH and to examine the features of complications in depth. Several databases were searched for articles that matched all of the inclusion criteria. The visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used to assess the clinical results. Information on perioperative outcomes and complications was gathered and analyzed. Eight studies with 756 participants were included. There were no significant differences in postoperative bed time (p = 0.44) and hospitalization time (p = 0.49) between T-FELD and I-FELD. When compared with I-FELD, T-FELD was associated with substantially longer fluoroscopy time (p < 0.0001) and operating time (p < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in the preoperative and postoperative VAS and ODI scores between T-FELD and I-FELD. The rates for overall complications, postoperative dysesthesia, postoperative lower extremity pain, incomplete decompression, recurrence, and conversion to open surgery were comparable for T-FLED and I-FELD. T-FELD and I-FELD had equal clinical results and safety for treatment of L5-S1 LDH. Fluoroscopy and operative times were shorter for I-FELD than for T-FELD.

Focused Perioperative Nutritional Supplementation Reduces Wound Complications in Patients Undergoing Spinal Fusion Surgery.

Retrospective cohort study. To evaluate intensive postoperative nutritional supplementation on wound healing complications and outcomes after spinal fusion surgery. Poor nutritional status leads to inferior postoperative outcomes by increasing mortality and predisposing patients to infection and wound healing complications. While perioperative nutritional supplementation has shown promise in mitigating these risks, there is a paucity of literature regarding specific nutritional routines in spinal fusion surgery. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent spinal fusion surgery between 2019 and 2022. Demographic and nutritional data, including preoperative prealbumin levels (PAB) and postoperative supplemental diet, were examined. Primary endpoints included wound complications, with secondary outcomes assessing Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Health (PH) scores. Statistical analyses included unpaired t-tests and Chi-squared/Fischer's exact tests with significance set at P<0.05. Patients receiving the supplemental diet (n=229) demonstrated fewer wound complications (7% vs. 21%, P=0.004) and reoperations (3% vs. 11%, P=0.016) compared to those without supplementation (n=56). No significant differences were observed in preoperative or postoperative PROMIS PH or ODI scores. Patients with normal preoperative PAB had more wound complications without the supplemental diet (5% vs. 18%, P=0.025). A similar trend was seen in the patients with low preoperative PAB (12% vs. 26%, P=0.12). Postoperative nutritional supplementation significantly reduces wound complications after spinal fusion surgery in a cost-effective manner. This study underscores the modifiability of certain perioperative risk factors and suggests that nutritional strategies can mitigate potential complications.

PL-TOSP, the Novel Entry Point in Transforaminal Endoscopic Spine Surgery: Radiological Analysis with Prospective Surgical Evaluation and Review of Literature of Various Skin Entry Points

Abstract Purpose Aim of this study was to analyze variation in angulation of trajectories of various skin entry points in transforaminal endoscopic spine surgery with change in the physical parameters, namely, weight, abdominal girth, and body mass index and to validate our hypothesis that posterolateral (PL)-tip of spinous process (TOSP) entry has minimal variation in the angle of trajectory as compared with currently available skin entry points. The study included an analysis of the functional outcomes of these patients who underwent transforaminal endoscopy using the novel PL-TOSP technique, assessing improvements in pain and disability. Overview Entry point in transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy (TELD) was taken as a rough distance of 10 to 12 cm from midline as proposed by Kambin whereas Yeung and Tsou advised entry point as distance between the center of the disc space and the posterior skin line measured on lateral. But entry points cannot be static as they tend to change according to changes in physical parameters. Materials and Methods This study comprises of radiological analysis and a prospective evaluation of these patients operated on using the PL-TOSP entry point. Radiological analytic study was performed on 50 symptomatic preoperative patients who underwent transforaminal endoscopy using the novel PL-TOSP entry point. A lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) field of vision (MRI-FOV) was performed for the patients including the abdominal perimeter. Weight, height, and abdominal girth of the patients were noted prior to MRI. Angulation of trajectory made by four standard entry points used in TELD, namely, 45–45, PL, TOSP), dorsum of facet joint, and our proposed entry point PL-TOSP (which is a midpoint between PL and TOSP entry), were calculated using MRI-FOV at L45 and L5S1 level. For the functional outcome analysis of these 50 patients, preoperative Visual Analogue Score (VAS) for lower limb pain and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were recorded. Postoperative VAS and ODI scores were reassessed at 2, 6, and 12 weeks. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate the significance of changes in VAS scores and ODI preoperative versus postoperative. A p-value of &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Angle of trajectory with the horizontal for all five entry points varies with physical parameters. PL-TOSP entry point has the least variation with change in physical parameters as compared with other entry points. The range of angle for PL-TOSP entry was 21 to 29 degrees. In our study, there was improvement in postoperative VAS and ODI scoring systems which was statistically significant (p-value &lt; 0.05). This suggests reliability of our proposed entry point with consistent postoperative improvement. Conclusion The novel PL-TOSP entry point for transforaminal endoscopy demonstrates superior stability in trajectory angle despite variations in physical parameters, and is associated with significant improvements in functional outcomes and pain reduction for patients with lower limb radiculopathy. Angulation of PL-TOSP trajectory with horizontal also corresponds to current generation of endoscopes (25 or 30 degrees).

The Spaghetti Sign: Nerve Root Redundancy in Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Redundant nerve roots (RNRs) seen in conjunction with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) are well-described radiographic findings. Several studies suggest their presence may be a negative prognostic indicator of postoperative outcome. Our hypothesis was that severe RNR (informally known as the spaghetti sign [SS]) can serve as a reliable marker of LSS that would benefit from surgical decompression. We sought to evaluate a grading scale for RNR, characterize the association with stenosis, and investigate the clinical implications of RNR. We conducted a retrospective chart review of 72 patients who underwent lumbar spine surgery from 2016 to 2018 at 1 institution. Preoperative T2 magnetic resonance imaging scans were graded by 3 reviewers for severity of stenosis (0-4), severity of RNR (0-3), and rostral versus caudal RNR. SS was defined as RNR score ≥2 (clear-cut or marked nerve root irregularity). Preoperative and postoperative Oswestry Disability Index scores were analyzed by stenosis and RNR severity. Seventy-one (98%) patients had severe stenosis (score ≥3) and 25 (35%) had a SS. SS was 100% specific for high-grade stenosis. If patients had a SS, it was more likely rostral (P=0.02). Postoperative Oswestry Disability Index scores improved significantly, but there were no differences related to RNR score, presence of SS, or stenosis severity. The study demonstrated that there is a significant association between SS and severe LSS and that presence of RNR is not a negative prognostic indicator for postoperative outcomes.

Discectomy for Lumbar Disc Herniation in Pediatric and Adolescent Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Corroborative evidence for discectomy in pediatric or adolescent patients remains scarce, with this single-arm meta-analysis investigating discectomy for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) within this population. PubMed, Embase(Elsevier), CiNAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched. Eligible studies reported pediatric patients under 21 years of age with a diagnosis of LDH that was treated surgically with discectomy. This review was registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023463358). Twenty-two studies met the eligibility criteria (n=1182). Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for back pain at baseline were 5.34 (95% CI: 4.48, 6.20, I2=98.9%). Postoperative VAS back pain scores after 12 months were 0.88 (95% CI: 0.57, 1.19, I2=95.6%). VAS scores for leg pain at baseline were 7.03 (95% CI: 6.63, 7.43, I2=93.5%). Postoperative VAS leg pain scores after 12 months were 1.02 (95% CI: 0.68, 1.36, I2=97.0%). Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores at baseline were 55.46 (95% CI: 43.69, 67.24, I2=99.9%). Postoperative ODI scores after 12 months were 7.82 (95% CI: 4.95, 10.69, I2=99.4%). VAS back, VAS leg and ODI scores demonstrated a minimum clinically important difference (MCID) at all postoperative points. Perioperative outcomes demonstrated operative time as 85.71 mins (95% CI: 73.96, 97.46, I2=99.4%) and hospital length of stay as 3.81 days (95% CI: 3.20, 4.41, I2=98.5%). The postoperative reoperation rate at the same level was 0.01 (95% CI: <0.00, 0.02, I2=0%). Discectomy appears safe and effective in pediatric and adolescent patients suffering from LDH. The findings here provide groundwork for future randomized control trials against conservative measures to elaborate on optimal management and elucidate long-term outcomes.

What is the Association of the Subsections of the Oswestry Disability Index and Overall Improvement Two Years after Lumbar Surgery for Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?

Retrospective review of a prospective cohort study. To identify the association between Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) subsections and overall improvement 2 years after lumbar surgery for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS). DLS often necessitates lumbar surgery. The ODI is a trusted measure for patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) in assessing spinal disorder outcomes. Surgeons utilize the ODI for baseline functional assessment and post-surgery progress tracking. However, it remains uncertain if and how each subsection influences overall ODI improvement. This retrospective cohort study analyzed patients who underwent lumbar surgery for DLS between 2016 and 2018. Preoperative and 2-year postoperative ODI assessments were conducted. The study analyzed postoperative subsection scores and defined ODI improvement as ODIpreop-ODIpostop >0. Univariate linear regression was applied, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis determined cut-offs for subsection changes and postoperative target values to achieve overall ODI improvement. 265 patients (60% female, mean age 67±8y) with a baseline ODI of 50±6 and a postoperative ODI of 20±7 were included. ODI improvement was noted in 91% (242 patients). Achieving a postoperative target score of ≤2 in subsections correlated with overall ODI improvement. Walking had the highest predictive value for overall ODI improvement (AUC 0.91, sensitivity 79%, specificity 91%). Pain intensity (AUC 0.90, sensitivity 86%, specificity 83%) and changing degree of pain (AUC 0.87, sensitivity 86%, specificity 74%) were also highly predictive. Sleeping had the lowest predictability (AUC 0.79, sensitivity 84%, specificity 65%). Except for sleeping, all subsections had a Youden-index >50%. These findings demonstrate how the different ODI subsections associate with overall improvement post-lumbar surgery for DLS. This understanding is crucial for refining preoperative education, addressing particular disabilities, and evaluating surgical efficacy. Additionally, it shows that surgical treatment does not affect all subsections equally.

The Minimal Clinically Important Difference for the Oswestry Disability Index Substantially Varies Based on Calculation Method: Implications to Value Based Care.

Retrospective study. Evaluate differences in the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) threshold value based on various acceptable statistical methods, and how these differences may influence the interpretation of surgical benefit following elective 1 and 2 level lumbar fusion. The MCID is a statistically determined threshold value to evaluate if a patient has received benefit from a medical procedure. In the era of value based medicine, the MCID has become increasingly important. However, there is substantial ambiguity surrounding the interpretation of this value given that it can be influenced by both demographic and methodological factors. 371 patients that underwent one or two level elective lumbar fusion between June 2021 and June 2023 were included in this study. All patients completed both their preoperative and 6 month post-operative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), as well as two anchor questions concerning satisfaction with their surgical procedure. The MCID values were calculated using 16 accepted statistical methods, and the resulting MCID values were applied to the cohort to determine how many patients reached MCID by 6 months post fusion. Results demonstrated significant variability in the MCID value. The average MCID value for all 16 methods was 10.5±7.0 points range (0.8 to 25). Distribution methods provided lower threshold MCID values but had greater variability while the Anchor methods resulted in higher threshold values but had lower variability. Depending on the method used 30 to 83% of the cohort reached MCID by 6 months. The statistical method used to calculate the MCID resulted in significantly different threshold values, and greatly affected the number of patients meeting MCID. The results demonstrates the complexity surrounding the interpretation of MCID values, and calls into question the utility of a single statistically determined value to assess surgical success.

The Comparison between Spinal Facet Joint Toothed Plate and Traditional Pedicle Screw-rod on Reduction of Thoracolumbar Fracture.

Thoracolumbar fractures are one of the most common fractures in clinical practice. Surgical intervention is recommended to restore spinal alignment or decompress the nerves when there are unstable fractures or neurological injuries. However, after excessive forward thrust force restoration, facet joint dislocation often occurs between the upper vertebra and the fractured vertebra, which usually leads to unsatisfactory reduction outcomes. Herein, we propose a novel spinal facet joint toothed plate to assist in fracture reduction. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the new spinal facet joint toothed plate in preventing facet joint dislocation, and its advantages compared to traditional pedicle screw-rod decompression. A total of 26 patients in the toothed plate group and 93 patients in the traditional group who experienced thoracolumbar fracture with reduction were retrospectively included. Relevant patients' information and clinical parameters were collected. Furthermore, visual analogue scores (VAS) scores and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were also collected. Moreover, imaging parameters were calculated based on radiographs. Correlated data were analyzed by χ2 test and t test. All patients in this study had no postoperative complications. Postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores (p < 0.001) were statistically significant (p < 0.001) in both groups compared with preoperative scores and further decreased (p < 0.001) at final follow-up. In addition, the postoperative vertebral margin ratio (VMR) (p < 0.001) and vertebral angle of the injured vertebrae (p < 0.001) were significantly improved compared with the preoperative period. There were no significant differences in postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores between the two groups. However, toothed plate reduction significantly improved the VMR (p < 0.05) and vertebral angle (p < 0.05) compared with conventional reduction. Ultimately, the total screw accuracy was 98.72% (sum of levels 0 and I), with 100% screw accuracy in the segment related to the tooth plate in the tooth plate group. The dislocation rate was higher in the conventional group (6.45%) than in the new serrated plate repositioning group (0.00%). The facet toothed plate assisted reduction method prevents facet joint dislocation and improves fracture reduction compared to traditional reduction technique, hence it could be considered as a novel surgical strategy for thoracolumbar fracture reduction.

Efficacy analysis of OLIF combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with or without redundant nerve roots

To investigate the clinical efficacy of oblique lumbar interbody fusion(OLIF) combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with or without redundant nerve roots(RNRs). A retrospective analysis of 92 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis treated by oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation from June 2019 to June 2022 was performed. There were 32 males and 60 females, aged from 44 to 82 years old with an average of (63.67±9.93) years old. All patients were divided into RNRs positive group and RNRs negative group according to redundancy or not before operation. There were 38 patients in RNRs positive group, including 15 males and 23 females. The age ranged from 45 to 82 years old with an average of (65.45±10.37) years old. The disease duration was 24.00(12.00, 72.00) months. There were 54 patients in RNRs negative group, including 17 males and 37 females. The age ranged from 44 to 77 years old with an average of (62.42±9.51) years old. The disease duration was 13.50(9.00, 36.00) months. The general data of patients were recorded, including operation time, intraoperative blood loss and complications. The imaging parameters before and after operation were observed, including the number of stenosis segments, intervertebral space height, lumbar lordosis angle and dural sac area. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the back and lower extremity pain, and the Oswestry disability index (ODI) was used to evaluate the activities of daily living. All patients were followed up for 8 to 18 months with an average of (11.04±3.61) months, and no complications were found during the follow-up period.The number of stenosis segments in RNRs positive group (1.71±0.46) was more than that in RNRs negative group(1.17±0.38). In RNRs positive group, intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, lower extremity pain VAS, ODI score were (1.11±0.19) cm, (0.46±0.17) cm2, (5.39±1.00) scores, (5.05±1.01) points, (55.74±4.05) points, respectively. RNRs negative groups respectively (0.97±0.23) cm, (0.69±0.26) cm2, (4.50±0.77) scores, (4.00±0.58) scores, (47.33±3.43) %. In RNRs positive group, intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, leg pain VAS, ODI score were (1.60±0.19) cm, (0.74±0.36) cm2, (3.39±0.72) scores, (3.05±1.01) scores, (46.74±4.82) scores, respectively. RNRs negative groups respectively (1.48±0.25) cm, (1.12±0.35) cm2, (3.00±0.82) scores, (3.00±0.82) scores, (37.67±3.58) %. The postoperative intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS score, lower extremity pain VAS and ODI score of the patients in the RNRs positive group and the negative group were significantly improved compared with those before operation, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in the number of stenosed segments, preoperative intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, lower extremity pain VAS, and ODI between the two groups(P<0.05). There were significant differences in postoperative intervertebral space height and postoperative ODI between the two groups(P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in intervertebral space height before and after operation and ODI score before and after operation(P>0.05). There were significant differences in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative dural sac area, difference of dural sac area before and after operation, postoperative low back pain VAS, difference of low back pain VAS score before and after operation, difference of lower extremity pain VAS before and after operation between the two groups(P<0.05). OLIF combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation has a good effect on patients with or without RNRs. Multi-segmental lumbar spinal stenosis and decreased dural sac area may lead to the occurrence of RNRs, and LSS patients with RNRs have more severe symptoms. LSS patients with RNRs have worse surgical outcomes than those without RNRs.

Reassessing the minimum 2-year follow-up standard after lumbar decompression surgery: a 2-month follow-up seems to be an acceptable minimum

BACKGROUND CONTEXTAcademic orthopedic journals and specialty societies emphasize the importance of two-year follow-up for patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) after spine surgery, but there are limited data evaluating the appropriate length of follow-up. PURPOSETo determine whether PROMs, as measured by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), would change significantly after 2-months postoperatively after lumbar decompression surgery for disc herniation or spinal stenosis. STUDY DESIGNRetrospective analysis of prospectively and consecutively enrolled patients undergoing lumbar decompression surgery between 2020 and 2021 from a single surgeon spine registry. PATIENT SAMPLEOne hundred sixty-nine patients. OUTCOME MEASURESODI, achievement of minimum clinically important difference (MCID), revisions. METHODSPatients without a preoperative baseline score were excluded. Completion of the ODI questionnaire was assessed at the follow-up points. The median ODI was compared at time baseline, 2-month, 1-year and 2-year follow-up. Risk of reoperation was assessed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to identify at-risk ODI thresholds of requiring reoperation. RESULTSMedian ODI significantly improved at all time points compared to baseline (median baseline ODI: 40; 2-month ODI: 16, p=.001; 1-year ODI: 11.1, p=.001; 2-year ODI: 8, p=.001). Posthoc analysis demonstrated no difference between 2-months, 1-year and 2-year postoperative ODI (p=.9, p=.468, p=.606). The MCID was met in 87.9% of patients at 2 months, 80.7% at 1 year, and 87.3% at 2 years postoperatively. Twelve patients (7.7%) underwent revision surgery between 2 months and 2 years after the index surgery (median time to revision: 5.6 months). ROC curve analysis demonstrated that an ODI score ≥24 points at 2-months yielded a sensitivity of 85.7% and a specificity of 71.8% for predicting revision after lumbar decompression (AUC=0.758; 95% CI: 0.613–0.903). The Youden optimal threshold value of ≥24 points at 2-month postop ODI yielded an odd ratio (OR) for revision of 15.3 (CI: 1.8–131.8; p=.004). The positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were 15.4% and 98.8%, respectively. CONCLUSIONTwo-year clinical follow-up may not be necessary for future peer-reviewed lumbar decompression surgery studies given that ODI plateaus at 8 weeks. Patients with a score ≥24 points at 2-months postoperatively have a higher risk of requiring a second surgery within the first 2 years and warrant continued follow-up.

Modified Percutaneous Endoscopic Interlaminar Discectomy through the Near-spinous Process Approach for L4/5 Disc Herniation: A Retrospective Clinical Study.

Compared with traditional open surgery, percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) has the advantages of less trauma, faster recovery, and less postoperative pain, so it has been widely used in the field of spinal surgery. However, it still has the defect of intraoperative fluoroscopy occurrences, complications, and even the risk of damage to the spinal cord and nerve. This study aims to compare the clinical efficacy of modified percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy (MPEID) with percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy (PETD) in treating L4/5 lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of MPEID. Thirty-four L4/5 LDH patients treated at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University from June 2020 to June 2021 were studied retrospectively. Seventeen underwent MPEID and seventeen PETD. Variables analyzed included demographics, operative duration, intraoperative fluoroscopy occurrences, and surgical outcomes. Effectiveness was evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and modified MacNab criteria. Lumbar Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was used to assess radiological outcomes. A paired t-test was performed to compare intragroup pre- and postoperative clinical data, VAS, and ODI scores. The average operative time in PETD group was 91.65 ± 14.04 min, and the average operative time in MPEID group was 65.41 ± 12.61 min (p < 0.001). In PETD group, the fluoroscopy occurrences averaged 9.71 ± 1.05 times, with fluoroscopy occurrences averaging 6.47 ± 1.00 times (p < 0.001) in MPEID group. At 12 months follow-up, the clinical effect showed significant improvement in both two groups. The MPEID group showed a decrease in average VAS-back score from 5.41 ± 2.18 to 1.76 ± 1.09 (p < 0.001) and VAS-leg score from 6.53 ± 1.66 to 0.82 ± 0.64 (p < 0.001). The ODI scores decreased from 51.35 ± 10.65 to 11.71 ± 2.91 (p < 0.001). In the PETD group, the VAS-back score decreased from 4.94 ± 1.98 to 2.06 ± 1.25 (p < 0.001), VAS-leg score from 7.12 ± 1.73 to 1.12 ± 0.60 (p < 0.001), and ODI scores from 48.00 ± 11.62 to 12.24 ± 2.56 (p < 0.001). According to the modified MacNab criteria, MPEID had 15 excellent and two good results; PETD had 12 excellent and 5 good (p = 0.23). No nerve root injuries, dural tears, or significant complications were reported. MPEID and PETD effectively treat L4/5 LDH, with MPEID showing shorter operative times and fewer fluoroscopies. Furthermore, the MPEID group can provide excellent clinical efficacy as the PETD group in the short term.

Clinical outcomes and bone resection analysis of unilateral double-channel endoscopic technique in treating lumbar disc herniation

To explore clinical outcomes and bone resection of interlaminar fenestration decompression and unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) technique in treating lumbar disc herniation(LDH). A retrospective study was performed on 105 patients with single-level LDH treated from December 2019 to December 2021. Fifty-four patients in UBE group,including 32 males and 22 females,aged from 18 to 50 years old with an average of(38.7±9.3) years old,were treated with UBE,29 patients with L4,5 and 25 patients with L5S1. There were 51 patients in small fenestration group,including 27 males and 24 females,aged from 18 to 50 years old with an average of (39.9±10.0) years old,were treated with small fenestration,25 patients with L4,5 and 26 patients with L5S1. Perioperative indexes,such as operation time,postoperative time of getting out of bed and hospital stay were observed and compared between two groups. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were compared between two groups before operation and 1,3,6 and 12 months after operation,respectively;and modified MacNab evaluation criteria was used to evaluate clinical efficacy. Amount of bone resection and retention rate of inferior articular process laminoid complex were compared between two groups. All 105 patients were successfully completed operation. Both of two groups were followed up from 6 to 12 months with an average of (10.69±2.49) months. Operation time,postoperative time of getting out of bed and hospital stay were (58.20±5.54) min,(2.40±0.57) d and (3.80±0.61) d in UBE group,and (62.90±7.14) min,(4.40±0.64) d and (4.40±0.64) d in small fenestrum group,respectively;and had statistically difference between two groups(P<0.05). Postoperative VAS of low back and leg pain and ODI in both groups were significantly lower than those before surgery (P<0.05). VAS of lumbar pain in UBE group (1.37±0.49) score was lower than that of small fenestration group (2.45±0.64) score,and had statistically difference (t=9.745,P<0.05). Postoperative ODI in UBE group at 1 and 3 months were (28.54±3.31) % and (22.87±3.23) %,respectively,which were lower than those in small fenestra group (36.31±9.08) % and (29.90±8.36) %,and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). There were no significant difference in VAS and ODI between two groups at other time points (P>0.05). According to the modified MacNab evaluation criteria at the latest follow-up,49 patients got excellent result,3 good,and 2 fair in UBE group. In small fenestration group,35 patients got excellent,12 good,and 4 fair. In UBE group,amount of bone resection on L4,5 segment was (0.45±0.08) cm3 and (0.31±0.08) cm3 on the segment of L5S1. In small fenestration group,amount of bone resection on L4,5 segment was (0.57±0.07) cm3 and (0.49±0.04) cm3 on the segment of L5S1,and amount of bone resection of lower articular process laminar complex on the same segment in UBE group was less than that in small fenestration group (P<0.05). In UBE group,retention rate of laminoid complex on L4,5 segment was (0.73±0.04) and L5S1 segment was (0.83±0.03),while L4,5 segment was(0.68±0.06) and L5S1 segment was (0.74±0.04) in small fenestration group,the lower articular process laminar complex retention rate in UBE group was higher than that in small fenestration group(P<0.05). Both unilateral double-channel endoscopy and small fenestration of laminae could achieve good clinical results in treating LDH,but UBE has advantages of less trauma,higher efficiency,faster postoperative recovery and less damage to bone structure.

Early result of percutaneous full-endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in the treatment of single-level lumbar degenerative diseases: a retrospective study.

The study aimed to evaluate the short-term clinical efficacy of percutaneous full-endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (Endo-TLIF) for lumbar degenerative diseases (LDD). From July 2020 to July 2021, 93 patients who underwent single-level lumbar fusion procedure were retrospective analysis. The patients were divided into Endo-TLIF group and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) group. General demographic and perioperative data were recorded, the clinical outcomes were evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS) and oswestry disability index (ODI). The disk height (DH) was compared between the two groups. All of the surgical procedures were successfully completed, and the patients were followed for a minimum of 2 years. Intraoperative blood loss, drainage volume, time to independent ambulation and hospital length of stay in the Endo-TLIF group were significantly decreased in comparison with the open TLIF group (p < 0.05). The VAS for back pain on postoperative 7day and ODI on postoperative 1 month were lower in the Endo-TLIF group than in the open TLIF group (P < 0.05), but no significant difference at 1 year and 2 years postoperatively (P > 0.05). The VAS score of leg pain had no demographic statistically significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). The DH were significantly heightened after surgery compared to the preoperative height (p < 0.05). Endo-TLIF is a minimally invasive, safety surgery which can achieve comparable short-term effects as open TLIF. It may be a promising option for the treatment of LDD.