Radiographic Parameters Research Articles

Assessing the Efficacy of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Body Image in Adolescent Scoliosis Patients Using Virtual Reality

Background/Objectives: Adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis require emotional support to change their experience of their desired body shape and to feel optimistic about the cosmetic results of surgical treatment. Recently, the use of virtual reality in psychological assessment and treatment has given specialists a technology that appears particularly well-suited for addressing body image disorders. The study objectives were two-fold. Firstly, we aimed to evaluate changes within the body image of scoliosis patients pre- and postoperatively. Secondly, we aimed to investigate if differences in body image exist in scoliosis females after implementing cognitive-behavioral therapy. Methods: Thirty-six total scoliosis patients participated in the 1st and 2nd study phases. The psychotherapy took place before and after surgery and during the patient’s stay in the hospital. Body image was assessed using a virtual reality-based application, “Avatar Scoliosis 3D”. Results: Regarding body image dissatisfaction evaluated via virtual tasks, the difference between the desired by patients and actual (based on the radiographic parameters) body shape is significant preoperatively in both scoliosis samples: with and without therapy (p < 0.000001 and p < 0.000001, respectively). Conclusions: The results of the present study may have important implications for developing standards for body image disorder treatments in scoliosis patients. We revealed that irrespective of received therapeutic support, scoliosis patients accurately estimate their body shape pre- and postoperatively, and they feel dissatisfied with their body preoperatively but not postoperatively.

Clinical effect of modified Henry approach in treating AO type B and C distal radius fractures

To investigate the clinical effect in treating AO type B and C distal radius fractures with modified Henry approach. Retrospectively analysis of 20 patients with AO type B and C distal radius fractures between June 2021 and May 2022, they were treated by modified Henry approach. There were 6 males and 14 females, aged from 35 to 78 years old, 8 patients on the left and 12 on the right. The patients' general data, fracture healing time, postoperative complications, last-time follow up radiographic parameters(volar inclination angle, ulnar deviation angle and radius height), wrist range of motion, range of forearm rotation and functional outcoming of the wrist joint according to Mayo scoring were observed of each patient. All patients were followed-up, the time was (13.3±2.3) months, ranged from 12 to 18 months. All the fractures were healed, the fracture healing time was (12.6±2.5) weeks, ranged from 10 to 16 weeks. There were no complications such as poor wound healing, incision infection, iatrogenic median nerve injury, delayed union, nonunion and malunion during the postoperative follow up. According to the X-ray measurement in the last-time follow up, the volar inclination angle was (11.4±4.0) °, the ulnar deviation angle was (20.9±2.2) ° and the radius height was (10.3±1.2) mm. The wrist range of motion was (65.3±5.8) ° for volar flexion, (60.2±4.2) ° for dorsal extension, (37.8±4.1) ° for ulnar deviation, (27.0±3.7) ° for radial deviation. The range of forearm rotation was(80.4±4.1) ° for pronation, (78.6±3.7) ° for supination. According to Mayo scoring, the wrist function was evaluated as excellent in 12 cases, good in 6 cases and fair in 2 cases, the excellent and good rate was 90%. Modified Henry approach can better expose the ulnar and volar fragments in distal radius, especially useful for reducting the distal radius with complex bi-columnar fractures.

Short term efficacy of subtalar arthroscopy combined with medial calcaneal-talar joint distraction in minimally invasive treatment of diabetic patients with calcaneal fractures: a retrospective study

BackgroundThe surgical treatment and management of postoperative soft tissue complications in diabetic patients with displaced calcaneal fractures are still controversial. We aimed to evaluate the short-term efficacy of percutaneous minimally invasive screw fixation in treatment of diabetic patients with Sanders II and III calcaneal fractures under subtalar arthroscopy assisted by preoperative musculoskeletal ultrasonic locating lateral calcaneal branch (LCB) of the sural nerve and calcaneal-talar joint distraction device.MethodsThe clinical data of 52 diabetic patients diagnosed with Sanders II or III calcaneal fractures from March 2016 to August 2020 were followed up and analyzed. There were 23 patients of type II and 29 patients of type III, 34 males and 18 females, with a mean age of 61.7 ± 14.5 years (range: 45–72 years). Preoperative musculoskeletal ultrasonography was routinely examined to locate LCB of the sural nerve. During surgery, we performed arthroscopic percutaneous prying reduction screw fixation assisted by medial calcaneal-talar joint distraction. Incision healing, local skin paraesthesia and other conditions were observed regularly at 3 days, 6, 12 months, and the last follow-up after surgery. Also, we measured the length, width, height, Böhler angle, and Gissane angle of the calcaneus on lateral and axial x-rays. Visual analogue pain scale (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and Maryland score were used to evaluate the efficacy.Results52 patients were followed up for 23.7 ± 3.2 months (range: 20–28 months) without incision-related complications. Calcaneal radiographic parameters (length, width, height, Böhler/Gissane angle) were improved after surgery, and the differences were all statistically significant (P<0.05). There was no difference between calcaneal radiographic parameters at 6,12 months and the last follow-up compared with 3 days after surgery without significant loss in overall morphology (P>0.05). Postoperative VAS, AOFAS scores, and Maryland scores were significantly improved compared with those before surgery (P<0.05).ConclusionsPreoperative ultrasonic locating LCB of the sural nerve and arthroscopic percutaneous minimally invasive screw fixation of Sanders II and III calcaneal fractures with the assistance of calcaneal-talar joint distraction have good short-term efficacy and clinical feasibility in diabetic patients.

Mid-term outcomes of distal tibial oblique osteotomy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a report of three cases.

Although distal tibial oblique osteotomy (DTOO) has usually been indicated for non-inflammatory diseases such as osteoarthritis, we encountered three patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who underwent DTOO. We evaluated radiographic parameters and clinical scores, including self-reported scores for the foot and ankle (SAFE-Q) and the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) ankle/hindfoot scale. In all three cases, radiographic improvements were achieved along with improvements in SAFE-Q and JSSF scores after mid-term follow-up. Supramalleolar osteotomy including DTOO could be indicated even for inflammatory diseases such as RA, if erosive changes are not evident in the ankle joint.

Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes of First Tarsometatarsal Joint Arthrodesis With a Biplanar Locking Plate System Versus the Modified Lapidus Technique With Crossed-Screw Fixation: A Retrospective Multicenter Comparison

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is recognized as a triplanar deformity. A biplanar locking plate (BLP) system corrects this deformity through first tarsometatarsal joint (TMTJ) arthrodesis, with specialized reduction tools and cutting guides. Yet the optimal surgical technique and fixation construct for first TMTJ arthrodesis remains controversial. Purpose: We sought to compare the BLP system with a modified Lapidus (ML) technique with crossed-screw fixation in terms of radiographic outcomes, complications, and reoperations. Methods: In this retrospective multicenter study, we identified a series of consecutive patients who underwent first TMTJ arthrodesis for HV with either the ML procedure at institution A or the BLP system at institution B. Patients 18 years of age with a minimum of 6 months of postoperative radiographs were included. There were 130 patients, 65 in each group, including 121 women (93.8%) with a median age of 58 years and mean radiographic follow-up of 7.1 months. Data included preoperative and postoperative HV angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), and tibial sesamoid position (TSP), plus complications and reoperations. Statistical testing included Mann-Whitney U, Wilcoxon signed rank, Fisher exact, McNemar, and multivariable regression. Results: After adjusting for confounding variables, the BLP system was associated with significantly greater improvements in postoperative IMA and HVA but not TSP. There were no significant differences in rates of complications (ML: 18.4%; BLP: 9.2%) or reoperations (ML: 4.6%; BLP: 7.7%). Conclusion: This retrospective multicenter review found that the BLP system was associated with greater improvement in radiographic HV parameters compared with the ML procedure using crossed-screw fixation. Clinical significance is unclear as complication and reoperation rates were similar between groups. Further study in this regard is warranted.

Predicting Functional Outcome After Nonoperative Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures Involving the Surgical Neck

BackgroundIn nonoperative treated proximal humeral fractures (PHF), uncertainty remains regarding functional outcome. Therefore, the aim was to identify predictors of functional outcome following nonoperative treatment of PHF and to develop predictive models. MethodsAdults with a nonoperatively treated PHF involving the surgical neck were followed for 1 year. Radiographic parameters included fracture configuration, displacement, bone quality, and the critical shoulder angle (CSA). The neck-shaft angle (NSA) and humeral head offset assessed displacement. The greater tuberosity index (GTI) addressed greater tuberosity (GT) displacement relative to the articular surface while the impingement index addressed GT-displacement relative to the acromion. Multivariate regression models determined predictors of impaired function as measured by Constant Score (CS), flexion, and external rotation (ER). Recursive partitioning created a decision tree model over dichotomized functional outcome that combined flexion and ER (good = flexion ≥ 120° and ER ≥ 40°). ResultsIn 272 consecutive patients (mean age: 66 years, 69% women and 31% men), mean functional outcomes were a CS of 74 points, 138° flexion, and 50° ER. Older age was a predictor for impaired CS, flexion, and ER (p < 0.001), while sex only influenced CS (p = 0.040). Every 10% increase in GTI assessed on the Y-view explained a decrease of 3 CS points, 7° of flexion, and 5° of ER (p < 0.001). Every 10° of varus angulation assessed on anterior-posterior (ap) views in internal rotation resulted in a decrease of 1 CS point and 4° of flexion (p ≤ 0.004). Subgroups of combined important GT-displacement (GTI ≥ 1.15) with age > 76 years or < 119° varus angulation demonstrated the worst function. Linear prediction models estimated flexion, ER, and CS with a mean difference of 10°, 3°, and 3 points, respectively. The decision tree model predicted good function with 80% accuracy (positive predictive value = 81%; negative predictive value = 78%). ConclusionDemographic and radiographic predictors were identified allowing for accurate functional prognosis of nonoperatively treated PHF involving the surgical neck. A combined assessment of the ap-view in internal rotation and Y-view is sufficient for accurate function prediction. The identified subgroups resulting in good or impaired function, and the predictive models may be useful for patient counseling and guidance of treatment-related expectations.

Comparison of Revision Techniques for Rod Fracture after Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery: Rod Replacement Alone or Coupled with Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusions or Accessory Rods.

Background: Rod fracture (RF) is the most common cause of revision in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery, and various treatment strategies for preventing RF are reported in the literature. This retrospective study, involving 139 ASD patients (aged ≥65 years and a minimum 2-year follow-up) who underwent long-segment fixation from T10 to sacrum with pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO), analyzed long-term results, including radiographical parameters and the incidence of recurrent RF (re-RF), to determine the most effective revision method for preventing RF. Methods: Patients were classified into three groups according to the revision method performed for RF: simple rod replacement (RR group, n = 17), lateral lumbar interbody fusion around the PSO site (RR + LLIF group, n = 8), and accessory rod insertion (RR + AR group, n = 22). Baseline characteristics and radiographical and clinical parameters were analyzed. Results: RF occurred in 47 patients (34%) at an average of 28 months following primary deformity correction. Re-RF occurred in six patients (13%) at an average of 37 months. Re-RF occurred most commonly in the RR group (p = 0.048). Every re-RF in the RR group occurred at the PSO site; none occurred in the RR + LLIF group, and one in the RR + AR group occurred near the L4-5. After both primary deformity correction and revision surgery, spinopelvic parameters had shown favorable results, and clinical outcomes had improved in all three groups without significant intergroup differences. Conclusions: Accessory rod insertion or an additional LLIF around the PSO site seems to provide greater strength and stability to the previously fused segments than a simple rod replacement, which demonstrates the need for additional support in revision surgery for RF after a PSO.

Open Dorsal Closing-Wedge Calcaneal Osteotomy for Haglund Exostosis-Related Heel Pain.

Dorsal closing-wedge calcaneal osteotomy (DCWCO) is a treatment option for persistent Haglund exostosis-related heel pain after failed conservative management. In modifying the orientation of the calcaneal tendinous insertion site and reducing mechanical stress, the consequences of DCWCO-associated biomechanical changes on everyday foot function remain unknown. This retrospective cohort study analyzed routinely collected clinical data as well as data from our foot and ankle registry. One hundred twenty patients (66 males, 54 females, 17-77 years) who underwent DCWCO from January 2016 to December 2019 were included. Adverse events were collected from the patient files. Foot Function Index (FFI) scores were collected before (baseline) and at 6, 12, and 24 months postsurgery. Radiographic parameters including the Achilles tendon moment arm and X/Y ratio were evaluated from standard preoperative and 6-week postoperative radiographs. Correlations between FFI and biomechanical changes were calculated for men and women separately with the Pearson correlation coefficient and Bonferroni correction. One intra- and 18 postoperative adverse events were documented. Mean baseline FFI pain decreased from 47.9 ± 17.2 to 12.0 ± 17.5 points at 24 months with an average decrease of -21.8 ± 21.3 points occurring within the first 6 months postsurgery. A similar trend was also seen with the FFI disability score (49.6 ± 20.3 to 12.8 ± 17.6 points). The mean decrease in Achilles tendon moment arm was -8.1 ± 3.8 mm and mean X/Y ratio increased from 2.6 ± 0.3 to 3.8 ± 1.0. There were no significant correlations between the FFI score and radiographic changes. DCWCO effectively alleviates exostosis-related heel pain and associated disabilities. Improvements can still be expected up to 2 years after surgery. Radiographic changes of the foot and ankle are significant but do not correlate with patient-reported outcome measures.

Using Machine Learning Algorithms to Predict Postoperative Anterior Bone Loss Following Anterior Cervical Disc Replacement.

Machine learning model. This study aimed to develop and validate a machine learning (ML) model to predict moderate-severe anterior bone loss (ABL) following anterior cervical disc replacement (ACDR). A retrospective review of patients undergoing ACDR or Hybrid surgery (HS) at a single center was performed. Patients diagnosed as C3-7 single- or multi-level cervical disc degenerative diseases (CDDD) with more than 2years of follow-up and complete pre- and postoperative radiological imaging were included. An ML-based algorithm was developed to predict moderate-severe ABL based on perioperative demographic, clinical, and radiographic parameters. Model performance was evaluated in terms of discrimination and overall performance. A total of 339 ACDR segments were included (61.65% female, mean age 45.65 ± 8.03years). During a follow-up period of 45.65 ± 8.03months, 103 (30.38%) segments developed moderate-severe ABL. The model demonstrated good discrimination and overall performance according to precision (moderate-severe ABL: 0.71 ± 0.07, none-mild ABL: 0.73 ± 0.08), recall (moderate-severe ABL: 0.69 ± 0.08, none-mild ABL: 0.75 ± 0.07), F1-score (moderate-severe ABL: 0.70 ± 0.08, none-mild ABL: 0.74 ± 0.07), and area under the curve (AUC) (0.74 ± 0.10). The most important predictive features were higher height change, higher post-segmental angle, and longer operation time. Utilizing a ML approach, this study successfully identified risk factors and accurately predicted the development of moderate-severe ABL following ACDR, demonstrating robust discrimination and overall performance. By overcoming the limitations of traditional statistical methods, ML can enhance discovery, clinical decision-making, and intraoperative techniques.

Clinical and GCF outcomes of Minimally-invasive non-surgical periodontal therapy in teeth with bone loss to the apex. A prospective study

AimsThe aim of this prospective study was to assess the potential benefits of minimally-invasive non-surgical therapy (MINST) in the healing of intrabony defects reaching the apex. MethodsTwenty systemically healthy patients with stage III-IV periodontitis and with at least one tooth with an intrabony defect reaching the apex were included in the study. Step 1 and 2 periodontal therapy including MINST were provided to all patients and patients were then followed up to 12 months post-treatment. Clinical parameters, standardised periapical radiographs and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were collected at test and control sites. 31 biomarkers were analysed. ResultsThree cases did not have the 12-months review (2 drop-outs and 1 tooth lost due to fracture). Despite significant improvements in clinical and radiographic parameters, the majority of defects still had PPD>5mm at the 12-months reassessment, therefore needing further treatment, including endodontic treatment in some cases. A pattern of increase in GCF biomarkers associated with a senescent secretory phenotype was detected immediately after treatment in test sites, with a decrease up to 12 months. An increase in IL-1β and MMP-3 in particular seems to be associated with increased risk to need endodontic treatment post-MINST. ConclusionsThe treatment of teeth with unfavourable prognosis and bone loss to the apex with MINST leads to PPD reduction, CAL gain and reduction in radiographic defect depth 12 months after treatment. However, MINST alone may not be sufficient in terms of defects resolution in most of these cases. Clinical significanceThe treatment of teeth with unfavorable prognosis and bone loss to the apex (hopeless) using MINST may lead to consistent PPD reduction, CAL gain and radiographic defect depth reduction after 12 months. However, adjunctive therapies may be necessary to achieve endpoints of therapy in these defects. GCF biomarkers may clarify healing patterns.

Characterization of Patients with Poor Clinical Outcome after Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery: A Multivariate Analysis of Mean 8-Year Follow-Up Data.

Background/Objective: Limited data exist regarding the long-term clinical outcomes and related factors after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. This study aims to characterize patients who experienced poor clinical outcomes during long-term follow-up after ASD surgery. Methods: Patients who underwent ASD surgery with ≥5-vertebra fusion including the sacrum and ≥5-year follow-up were included. They were divided into two groups according to the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at the last follow-up: group P (poor outcome, ODI > 40) and group NP (non-poor outcome, ODI ≤ 40). Clinical variables, including patient factors, surgical factors, radiographic parameters, and mechanical complications (proximal junctional kyphosis [PJK] and rod fracture), were compared between the groups. Results: A total of 105 patients were evaluated, with a mean follow-up of 100.6 months. The mean age was 66.3 years, and 94 patients (89.5%) were women. There were 52 patients in group P and 53 patients in group NP. Univariate analysis showed that low T-score, postoperative correction relative to age-adjusted pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis, T1 pelvic angle (TPA) at last follow-up, and PJK development were significant factors for poor clinical outcomes. Multivariate analysis identified PJK as the single independent risk factor (odds ratio [OR] = 3.957 for PJK development relative to no PJK, OR = 21.141 for revision surgery for PJK relative to no PJK). Conclusions: PJK development was the single independent factor affecting poor clinical outcomes in long-term follow-up. Therefore, PJK prevention appears crucial for achieving long-term success after ASD surgery.

The Effect of Night-time versus Full-time Bracing on the Sagittal Profile in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Propensity Score-matched Study.

Retrospective multicenter cohort study. To investigate the impact of night-time bracing (NTB) and full-time bracing (FTB) on the sagittal profile in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. Recent studies have shown that FTB in AIS patients may induce hypokyphosis. Whether this effect differs between NTB and FTB is unknown. We included skeletally immature AIS patients with main curves ranging from 20-45° treated with either NTB or FTB. The two cohorts were propensity-score matched on Risser stage, age, major curve size, and kyphosis at brace initiation. Coronal and sagittal radiographic parameters were gathered at the initiation and completion of brace treatment. Two-hundred fifty-seven patients were eligible for inclusion. The matched cohorts included 62 patients in each group. During bracing, the thoracic kyphosis increased from 31±11° to 35±13° in the NTB group compared to a decrease from 30±12° to 28±13° in the FTB group (P=0.011). Eight percent were hypokyphotic (<20°) after bracing in the NTB group compared to 24% in the FTB group (P=0.015). Pelvic incidence, sacral slope, and pelvic tilt were not significantly different between the groups. In the coronal plane, curve progression >50° was seen in 50% in the NTB group and 31% in FTB (P=0.028). We saw a small increase in thoracic kyphosis in the NTB group vs. a small decrease in the FTB group. Eight percent in the NTB group vs 24% in the FTB group showed substantial hypokyphosis after bracing. The impact of minor changes in thoracic kyphosis remains uncertain; however, a threefold difference in the occurrence of hypokyphosis is notable and merits further attention.

Risk factors for nonunion in femoral neck fracture patients with internal fixation: A multicenter (TRON group) retrospective study

IntroductionFemoral neck fractures (FNFs) are common in elderly individuals. When minimally displaced, they are typically treated with internal fixation. Nonunion is a complication of internal fixation of FNF, that sometimes necessitates reoperation. Radiographic parameters, including the Pauwels angle and posterior tilt angle, are risk factors for nonunion. However, these parameters are assessed solely in a two-dimensional context. We developed a novel radiographic parameter named the “Kindex.” This multicenter investigation aimed to identify risk factors for nonunion following FNF fixation and evaluate the validity of this index. MethodsThis retrospective multicenter study collected data from 939 FNF patients who underwent internal fixation between 2016 and 2020 at 11 facilities (TRON group). The following exclusion criteria were applied: age <65, insufficient data, and Garden Stage III or IV fracture. Patient data, including age, sex, BMI, ASA classification, alcohol and smoking history, and comorbidities, were recorded. Radiographic measurements of the Pauwels angle and posterior tilt angle at the time of injury were used to calculate the Kindex. Correlations between the Pauwels angle, posterior tilt angle, Kindex, and nonunion were evaluated. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate independent risk factors for nonunion. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the cutoff value of the Kindex, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated. ResultsThe study included 594 patients (males, n = 151; females, n = 443; average age, 80.9 years). Nonunion was observed in 13 cases (2.2 %). While the Pauwels angle and posterior tilt angle did not show significant correlations, the Kindex exhibited strong correlations with both parameters. In the multivariate analysis, the Kindex and renal impairment were independent risk factors for nonunion (Kindex: OR 1.06, p = 0.015; renal impairment: OR 1.48, p = 0.021). In the ROC analysis, a Kindex of 50 was identified as the optimal cutoff value (AUC 0.72). ConclusionThe nonunion rate after internal fixation of FNF was 2.2 %. Renal impairment and the Kindex were identified as independent risk factors. The Kindex at the time of injury may serve as a novel radiographic parameter to consider when evaluating the need for internal fixation in FNF cases.

Sagittal morphometry of intervertebral spaces in subaxial cervical region of asymptomatic Chinese.

This study aimed to quantify and evaluate morphology of intervertebral space between neighboring cervical units using radiographic imaging indices, to help spine surgeons when performing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery on the Chinese population. The background and imaging parameters of the subjects were assessed. Cervical lateral radiographs were employed to measure the intervertebral height (IH), intervertebral height index (IHI), and segmental lordosis (SL). Endplate parameters measurements were conducted on sagittal T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including endplate sagittal diameter (ESD), and endplate concavity depth (ECD). All individuals were divided into three age groups: individuals aged 20-35 were in group A, individuals aged 36-50 were in group B, and individuals aged over 50 were in group C. A comparison of the variables was conducted among the three groups. Additionally, these radiographic parameters were also compared between males and females. A total of 102 individuals were included in this study. IH was greater at C6/7 than those at other segmental levels (p < 0.001). The largest SL values were found at C6/7, while the least were found at C3/4. The superior ESD (ESDs) and ECD (ECDs) of the intervertebral space were significantly greater than those of the inferior endplates (p < 0.05). The ESD and ECD values were the largest at C6/7, while the least at C3/4. Additionally, age and gender had an influence on several parameters. IH was significantly lower in group A compared to group B (p < 0.05) and group C (p < 0.05) from C3/4 level to C6/7 level. ECDs were lower in group A compared to group B (p < 0.05) and group C (p < 0.05) at each level. IH and ESD in males were generally significantly greater than those in females at all levels (p < 0.05). The current study found that C6/7 had the greatest IH, SL, ESD, and ECD values in asymptomatic Chinese. SL gradually increased from C3/4 to C6/7 levels. IH and ECD were significantly associated with age. Males had greater IH and ESD values than females. These findings provide baseline information for planning for selection of anterior screws and intervertebral implants.

Clinical experience and outcomes using a commercially available micro-plating system for metabone fractures in dogs and cats: 10 cases (2019-2023).

To report the clinical experience and long-term outcome following metabone fracture stabilisation using a commercially available micro-plating system (VetKISS, 1.0-mm, IMEX Veterinary, USA). Consecutive, client-owned cats and dogs weighing <7 kg, with traumatic metabone fractures stabilised using VetKISS micro-plates were prospectively enrolled with informed owner consent. Clinical and radiographic parameters were recorded. Either short-term or long-term clinical and radiographic follow-up was required for study inclusion. Four cats and six dogs were enrolled and operated by one of two board-certified surgeons. Bodyweight ranged from 1.9 to 6.6 kg. Number of metabones fractured: all four (60%), three (30%) and two (10%). Anatomical alignment was restored for each metabone. External coaptation was not used in any case. Radiographic follow-up documented clinical or bony union in all cases. Mean time to clinical union was 51 days. One major complication (screw removal) and two minor complications (partial construct failure) were observed. All patients made a complete functional recovery at the time of documented union. Long-term follow-up was available in five cases. No lameness (evaluated independently by both surgeons) or plate sensitivity was noted. This is the first clinical evaluation of the VetKISS for metabone fracture repair, and includes long-term follow-up. Results demonstrated complete functional recovery and 100% clinical union rates in all patients, with acceptable complication rates. This system can be considered for metabone repair in patients weighing <7 kg without the use of external coaptation.

Impact of postoperative spinal malalignment on postoperative health-related quality of life after long-level fixation for degenerative lumbar scoliosis: does residual coronal angularity matter?

This study evaluates the influence of spinal malalignment on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in a long-level fusion spine. This was a retrospective analysis of 121 consecutive patients with DLS after long-segment fusion. HRQOL and radiographic parameters were collected at final follow-up. For postoperative residual Cobb angle (CA), patients were divided as follows: group (0) (CA < 10°), group (+) (CA 10°∼20 °), and group (++) (CA > 20°). For postoperative coronal vertical axis (CVA), patients were separated as follows: group (0) (CVA < 2cm), group (+) (CVA 2 ∼ 3cm), and group (++) (CVA > 3cm). Patients were also grouped by the sagittal modifiers as group (0), group (+), and group (++) according to the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-Schwab classification, respectively. Visual analog scale (VAS) for back was significantly lower in CA 10°∼20° group compared to other groups. Patients with remnant CA > 20° showed worse Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), SRS-22 and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) - physical component scores (PCS). Sagittal vertical axis (SVA) showed significant correlation with HRQOLs after surgery, and the statistical significance of ODI, SRS-22 and SF-36 scores was observed among subgroups. In long-level fused spine, residual CA > 20° resulted in worse clinical outcomes and was recommended to avoid during surgery. And 10° to 20° residual CA was acceptable in DLS patients and even better than Cobb angle < 10° in several HRQOLs, therefore strictly pursing upright alignment seems unnecessary. SVA also showed effectiveness in assessing HRQOL in the fixed spine.

Change in Talar Axial Rotation and Pain Intensity Following Correction of Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity.

The talus is more internally rotated within the ankle mortise in progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) patients. However, no studies have investigated the change in talar axial rotation (AR) in PCFD postoperatively. The primary aim was to investigate the change in talar AR following PCFD reconstruction. Secondary aims were to determine whether talar AR changes were associated with other radiographic measurements or specific procedures, and whether postoperative talar AR was associated with 2-year patient-reported outcome scores. Twenty-seven patients older than 18 years who underwent flexible PCFD reconstruction with preoperative and at least 5-month postoperative weightbearing computed tomographic (WBCT) scans and radiographs and had preoperative and at least 2-year postoperative PROMIS scores were included. Patients with talonavicular fusions were excluded. Talar AR was the angle between the transmalleolar axis and talar axis on WBCT scans, with smaller angles representing more internal rotation as described by Kim et al. Hindfoot moment arm, Meary angle, fibulocalcaneal and talocalcaneal distance, subtalar middle facet uncoverage, and talonavicular angle were measured on radiographs. Postoperative talar AR was 49.7 degrees (IQR, 45.9, 57.3), which was more externally rotated than preoperative AR by a median of 8.3 degrees (IQR, 2.2, 15.7) (P > .001). The change in talar AR was not associated with changes in any radiographic parameter. Increasing external talar AR was associated with an increase in postoperative PROMIS pain intensity (rs = 0.38, 95% CI 0.00, 0.67). Lateral column lengthening and subtalar fusion procedures were not associated with changes in talar AR (P > .10). PCFD reconstruction results in external rotation of the talus within the ankle mortise. Kim et al found that control patients had approximately 40 to 60 degrees of talar AR, which is similar to this study's corrected position of the talus. However, increasing talar external rotation resulted in worse postoperative PROMIS pain intensity, suggesting the possibility of overcorrecting the internal AR deformity.

Comparison of Staggered and Conventional Posterior Single-Door Laminoplasty

ObjectiveThis study aimed to delineate the clinical and radiological outcomes between two different single-door laminoplasty techniques, the staggered approach and the conventional one-sided approach, in treating cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). MethodsThis is a retrospective chart review that involved 67 patients who had CSM with symptoms lasting for ≥3 months, and underwent staggered laminoplasty (Group A, n=35) or conventional laminoplasty (Group B, n=32). Outcomes measures included intraoperative parameters, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, cervical curvature, cervical range of motion (ROM), and radiographic parameters that reflected the level of post-operative muscle atrophy. Follow-up assessments were available at 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-operation. ResultsThe mean ages in Group A and Group B were 57.11 (SD, 8.02) and 55.28 (SD, 8.47) years, respectively, with a gender distribution of 40.00% female in Group A and 40.63% in Group B (P>0.05). The average operative times were 130.86 (SD, 11.80) and 129.84 (SD, 10.51) minutes, respectively (P>0.05). However, intraoperative blood loss in milliliters was significantly higher in Group A (196.06; SD, 32.69) compared to Group B (155.03; SD, 37.80) (P<0.001). JOA scores revealed no significant post-operative differences between the two groups. Nevertheless, Group A exhibited less VAS pain, reduced post-operative ROM loss at 6 and 12 months, and less alteration in cervical curvature and decreased severity in muscle atrophy at 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-surgery. ConclusionPatients who underwent staggered single-door laminoplasty experienced more favorable outcomes in some metrics than those who received the conventional technique.

Morphological characteristics of CT blend sign predict hematoma expansion and outcomes in intracerebral hemorrhage in elderly patients.

The underlying basis of the blend sign on brain computed tomography (CT) in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is unclear. Few studies have examined the morphological alterations in the CT blend sign in ICH. Therefore, we assessed changes in the CT blend sign and their association with hematoma expansion (HE) and adverse outcomes in ICH patients. We recorded the clinical and radiographic parameters of patients with ICH and blend sign on brain CT. The patients were categorized into two groups, with changes in the relatively hypoattenuating region of the blend sign (CHB group) and with no changes in the relatively hypoattenuating region of the blend sign (NHB groups). We performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to examine the correlations between CHB and HE and poor outcomes. Furthermore, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to confirm the predictive power of CHB. In total, 183 patients were included in the study, of whom 74 (40.4%) demonstrated changes in the hypoattenuating region of the blend sign, whereas 109 (59.6%) did not. Compared with the NHB group, patients in the CHB group exhibited significantly higher levels of HE and adverse outcomes. After adjustment for confounding factors, CHB was independently associated with HE (odds ratio, 19.401 [95% CI, 7.217-52.163]; p < 0.001) and poor 3-month outcomes (odds ratio, 2.638 [95% CI, 1.391-5.003]; p = 0.003) in the multivariate analysis. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of CHB for predicting HE were 0.877, 0.768, 0.791, and 0.862, respectively, whereas these values for predicting poor outcomes were 0.789, 0.641, 0.688, and 0.752, respectively. Changes of a hypoattenuating region within the blend sign have good predictive accuracy for HE and short-term adverse outcomes in elderly patients with ICH. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05548530.

Effect of Cage Material and Size on Fusion Rate and Subsidence Following Biportal Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion.

Biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (BE-TLIF) is an emerging, minimally invasive technique performed under biportal endoscopic guidance. However, concerns regarding cage subsidence and sufficient fusion during BE-TLIF necessitate careful selection of an appropriate interbody cage to improve surgical outcomes. This study compared the fusion rate, subsidence, and other radiographic parameters according to the material and size of the cages used in BE-TLIF. In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent single-segment BE-TLIF between April 2019 and February 2023 were divided into 3 groups: group A, regular-sized three-dimensionally (3D)-printed titanium cages; group B, regular-sized polyetheretherketone cages; and group C, large-sized 3D-printed titanium cages. Radiographic parameters, including lumbar lordosis, segmental lordosis, anterior and posterior disc heights, disc angle, and foraminal height, were measured before and after surgery. The fusion rate and severity of cage subsidence were compared between the groups. No significant differences were noted in the demographic data or radiographic parameters between the groups. The fusion rate on 1-year postoperative computed tomography was comparable between the groups. The cage subsidence rate was significantly lower in group C than in group A (41.9% vs. 16.7%, p=0.044). The severity of cage subsidence was significantly lower in group C (0.93±0.83) than in groups A (2.20±1.84, p=0.004) and B (1.79±1.47, p=0.048). Cage materials did not affect the 1-year postoperative outcomes of BE-TLIF; however, subsidence was markedly reduced in large cages. Larger cages may provide more stable postoperative segments.