Search

Study Design: Retrospective cohort comparative study. Objective: To determine the prevalence of major complications, identify risk factors, and assess long-term clinical benefit after revision adult spinal deformity surgery. Summary Of Background Data: No study has analyzed risk factors for major complications in long revision fusion surgery and whether or not occurrence of a major complication affects ultimate clinical outcome. Methods: Analysis of consecutive adult patients who underwent multilevel revision surgery for spinal deformity with a minimum 2-year follow-up was performed. All complications were classified as either major or minor. Outcome analysis was conducted with the Scoliosis Research Society and Oswestry Disability Index scores. Results: A total of 166 patients (mean age = 53.8 years) were identified with a mean follow-up of 3.5 years (range: 2-7). Primary diagnoses included idiopathic/de novo scoliosis (107), degenerative (35), trauma (7), neuromuscular scoliosis (6), congenital deformity (5), ankylosing spondylitis (2), tumor (2), Scheuermann kyphosis (1), and rheumatoid arthritis (1). Most common secondary diagnoses that necessitated revision surgery were adjacent segment disease, fixed sagittal imbalance, and pseudarthrosis. Overall, 34.3% of patients developed major complications (19.3% perioperative; 18.7% follow-up). Associated risk factors for perioperative complications were patient- (age > 60 years, medical comorbidities, obesity) and surgery-related (pedicle subtraction osteotomy). Performance of a 3-column osteotomy and postoperative radiographic changes that suggested progressive loss of sagittal correction were recognized as risk factors for follow-up complications. Equivalent outcome scores were reported by patients preoperatively, but those experiencing follow-up complications reported lower scores at the final follow-up. Conclusion: Overall, 34.4% of patients experienced major complications after long revision fusion surgery. Different risk factors were identified for perioperative versus follow-up complications. The occurrence of a follow-up, not but perioperative, major complication seemed to have a negative impact on ultimate clinical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN: Comparative study. OBJECTIVE: To compare the radiographic and clinical outcomes of patients undergoing extension of a previous idiopathic scoliosis fusion to the sacrum using either autogenous bone graft or recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Extension of an existing idiopathic scoliosis fusion to the sacrum for distal degeneration or sagittal imbalance has been associated with a high rate of pseudarthrosis. We hypothesized that rhBMP-2 could be successfully used as a substitute for distant autograft in this challenging population. METHODS: Consecutive patients were identified from a single institution prospective database. The control group (autogenous harvesting without rhBMP-2, 1998-2002) included 24 of 25 patients with minimum 2-year follow-up while the study group (rhBMP-2 without distant autograft, 2002-2006) included 36 of 39 patients with minimum 2-year follow-up. Radiographs were measured using standard adult deformity criteria. Fusions were evaluated by independent observers using a published 4-point scale. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using Scoliosis Research Society and Oswestry Disability Index Questionnaires. RESULTS: Groups were well matched with respect to demographic, radiographic, and surgical data with the following exceptions: the control group (autogenous graft, no BMP) was younger (43.5 vs. 49.8 years; P = 0.04), had more anterior levels fused (3.3 vs. 1.7; P = 0.01), more thoracoabdominal approaches (25% vs. 2.7%; P = 0.01), and greater estimated blood loss (1938 vs. 1221 mL; P = 0.01). There was 1 wound complication (deep infection) in each group. Rates of radiographic pseudarthrosis (11.1% vs. 20.8%) and revision for pseudarthrosis (5.6% vs. 12.5%) were lower in the rhBMP-2 group, although this did not reach statistical significance. Preoperative, postoperative, and improvements in Scoliosis Research Society and Oswestry Disability Index scores were similar between groups. We did not observe any increase in adverse events with the use of rhBMP-2. CONCLUSION: BMP-2 is a safe and effective alternative to iliac or rib harvesting when extending an existing idiopathic scoliosis fusion to the sacrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN.: Retrospective, observational study. OBJECTIVE.: To compare the safety and efficacy of 2 pharmaceutical antifibrinolytic agents, aprotinin and tranexamic acid, in controlling blood loss during lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) in adults. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA.: Reconstructive spinal surgeries, in particular lumbar PSOs, have been associated with large blood losses despite interventions (intraoperative blood salvaging, controlled hypotensive anesthesia). Since the 1990s, intraoperative administration of antifibrinolytics (aprotinin, tranexamic acid, e-aminocaproic acid) has gained popularity. This study assesses the safety and efficacy of 2 antifibrinolytics, aprotinin and tranexamic acid, during adult lumbar PSO procedures at one institution. METHODS.: A retrospective comparative analysis of 44 consecutive adults undergoing posterior spinal fusion procedures with lumbar PSO at one institution was performed. Patients were analyzed according to treatment group: controls (10), aprotinin (14), and tranexamic acid (20). There were no significant differences in demographic (gender, age, comorbidities) or surgical traits (length of surgery, levels fused/exposed, preoperative hematocrit, bone graft source, primary/revision) between the 3 groups. RESULTS.: The aprotinin group had significantly less intraoperative blood loss (1114 +/- 992 mL; P < 0.01) than the tranexamic acid and control group (2102 +/- 1076 mL and 2260 +/- 1580 mL, respectively). The aprotinin group received significantly less blood (577 +/- 806 mL; P < 0.002) during the surgical procedure than the tranexamic acid (1838 +/- 1096 mL) and the control group (1502 +/- 1241 mL). There were no major intraoperative complications for any of the treatment groups. There were no postoperative cases of seizures, MI, CVA, DVT, or PE with any of the treatment groups. There was one acute tubular necrosis event in the aprotinin group, which resolved before discharge but did required several days of dialysis. CONCLUSION.: The aprotinin treatment group lost significantly less blood and received significantly fewer blood transfusions than both the tranexamic acid and control groups without significant differences in intra- and postoperative complications. These results may justify further study of aprotinin and other antifibrinolytics for this specific indication (3-column lumbar osteotomies in the adult spinal deformity population). A multicenter randomized comparative analysis would be ideal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective observational cohort study with matched and unmatched comparisons. Level II evidence. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to compare results of adult symptomatic lumbar scoliosis (ASLS) patients treated nonoperatively and operatively. This is an evidence-based prospective multicenter study to answer the question of whether nonoperative and operative treatment improves the quality of life (QOL) in these patients at 2-year follow-up. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Only 1 paper in the peer-reviewed published data directly addresses this question. That paper suggested that operative treatment was more beneficial than nonoperative care, but the limitations relate to historical context (all patients treated with Harrington implants) and the absence of validated patient-reported QOL (QOL) data. METHODS: This study assesses 160 consecutively enrolled patients (ages 40-80 years) with baseline and 2-year follow-up data from 5 centers. Lumbar scoliosis without prior surgical treatment was defined as a minimum Cobb angle of 30 degrees (mean: 54 degrees for patients in this study). All patients had either an Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score of 20 or more (mean: 33) or Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) domain scores of 4 or less in pain, function, and self-image (mean: 3.2) at baseline. Pretreatment and 2-year follow-up data collected prospectively included basic radiographic parameters, complications and SRS QOL, ODI, and Numerical Rating Scale back and leg pain scores. RESULTS: At 2 years, follow-up on the operative patients was 95% and for the nonoperative patients it was 45%. The demographics for the nonoperative patients who were followed up for 2 years versus those who were lost to follow-up were identical. The operative cohort significantly improved in all QOL measures. The nonoperative cohort did not improve and nonsignificant decline in QOL scores was common. At minimum 2-year follow-up, operative patients outperformed nonoperative patients by all measures. CONCLUSION: It would appear from this study that common nonoperative treatments do not change the QOL in patients with ASLS at 2-year follow-up. However, operative treatment does significantly improve the QOL for this group of patients. Our conclusions are limited by the fact that we were only able to follow-up 45% of the nonoperative group to 2-year follow-up, in spite of extensive efforts on our part to accomplish such. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review with matched-cohort analysis performed at a single institution. OBJECTIVE: To determine risk factors and outcomes for acute fractures at the proximal aspect of long pedicle screw constructs. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Acute fractures at the top of long segmental pedicle screw constructs (FPSC) can be catastrophic. Substantial surgical increase in lordosis may precipitate this problem. In relation to a matched cohort, we postulated that age, body mass index (BMI), and significant correction of lumbar lordosis would increase risk of FPSC and patients with FPSC would have lesser improvements in outcomes. METHODS: Thirteen patients who sustained FPSC between 2000 and 2007 were evaluated. During this time, 264 patients aged 40 or older had a spinal fusion from the thoracic spine to the sacrum using an all-pedicle screw construct. A cohort of 31 of these patients without FPSC but with all pedicle screw constructs was matched for diagnosis of positive sagittal imbalance, gender, preoperative C7 sagittal plumb, and number of levels fused. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in age (P = 0.02) and BMI (P = 0.006) between the matched groups. There was no significant difference in preoperative/postoperative C7 plumb or change in lumbar lordosis between groups. Acute neurological deficit developed in 2 patients; both patients improved substantially after revision surgery. Nine patients underwent proximal extension of the fusion. For 7 of the 13 FPSC patients with bone mineral density data (BMD) available, average T score was-1.73; -0.58 for the matched group (10/31 with bone mineral density data) (P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Factors that increased the risk of FPSC included obesity and older age. Osteopenia increased the risk as evidenced by BMD (based on 17 patients) and the older age of these patients. There was no statistical difference in clinical improvement between groups based on ODI, but the FPSC group did demonstrate a smaller improvement in ODI score than the matched cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, observational study. OBJECTIVE: To further validate the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) instrument by comparing scores of adult deformity patients with no prior history of spine surgery to the scores of normal adult volunteers in age-gender matched groups. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Efforts have been made to validate the SRS questionnaire in adolescent and adult deformity patients. An important psychometric attribute of any quality of life tool is its ability to discriminate between subjects with and without the condition of interest. Discriminate validity of the SRS questionnaire has not been established in the primary (no prior surgical treatment) adult deformity population. METHODS: The SRS questionnaire was issued prospectively to 935 primary adult deformity patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic or de novo scoliosis and minimum Cobb angle of 30 degrees (average Cobb angle: 54 degrees; range: 30 degrees-132 degrees). Five hundred forty-three patients were treated nonsurgically while 392 patients underwent surgical intervention. Baseline SRS scores of the deformity population were compared to 1222 volunteers with no history of spine disease randomly sampled from the US population. Analysis between the 2 populations was broken down into 6 age-gender groups: male/female; 20-40, 41-60, 61-80 years of age. RESULTS: SRS domain scores of the deformity subgroups demonstrated significant statistical differences from their corresponding age-gender matched normative group. The only exceptions were the mental health domain in the older males, 61-80 years of age. The average SRS subscore for each age-gender subgroup was less than the tenth percentile in the corresponding normative population, indicating substantial limitations in these patients. CONCLUSION: Our findings confirm the SRS instrument has excellent discriminate validity in the adult population. It appears to be disease-specific in the domains of pain, appearance and activity in adult spinal deformity patients who have not had prior surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. OBJECTIVE: To analyze time-dependent change of, prevalence of, and risk factors for proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in adult spinal deformity after long (> or =5 vertebrae) segmental posterior spinal instrumented fusion with a minimum 5-year postoperative follow-up. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: No study has focused on time-dependent long-term proximal junctional change in adult spinal deformity after segmental posterior spinal instrumented fusion with minimum 5-year follow-up. METHODS: Clinical and radiographic data of 161 (140 women/21 men) adult spinal deformity patients with minimum 5-year follow-up (average 7.8 years, range 5-19.8 years) treated with long posterior spinal instrumentation and fusion were analyzed. Radiographic measurements included sagittal Cobb angle at the proximal junction on preoperative, 8-weeks postoperation, 2-year postoperation, and ultimate follow-up (> or =5 years). Postoperative SRS outcome scores were also evaluated. RESULTS: The prevalence of PJK at 7.8 years postoperation was 39% (62/161 patients). The PJK group (n = 62) demonstrated a significant increase in proximal junctional angle at 8 weeks (59%), between 2 years postoperation and ultimate postoperation (35%), and in thoracic kyphosis (T5-T12) at ultimate follow-up (P = 0.001). However, the sagittal vertical axis change at ultimate follow-up did not correlate with PJK (P = 0.53). Older age at surgery >55 years (vs. < or =55 years) and combined anterior and posterior spinal fusion (vs. posterior only) demonstrated significantly higher PJK prevalence (P = 0.001, 0.041, respectively). The SRS outcome scores did not demonstrate significant differences with the exception of the self-image domain when PJK exceeded 20 degrees. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of PJK at 7.8 years postoperation was 39%. PJK progressed significantly within 8 weeks postoperation (59%) and between 2 years postoperation and ultimate follow-up (35%). Older age at surgery (>55 years) and combined anterior and posterior spinal fusion were identified as risk factors for developing PJK. The SRS outcome instrument was not adversely affected by PJK, except when PJK exceeded 20 degrees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: A retrospective long-term follow-up study. Objective: Evaluate the fate of L5-S1 disc analyzing subsequent disc degeneration and associated risk factors for degeneration at minimum 5-year follow-up (average 9-year follow-up). Summary Of Background Data: Two previous studies reported the results of long deformity fusions terminating at L5 with minimum 2-year follow-up only. Methods: Thirty-one consecutive patients with an average age of 45 years (range, 20-62 years) were fused from the thoracic spine to L5 and were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 9.4 years (range, 5-20.1 year). Patients were evaluated before surgery, after surgery, and latest follow-up with radiographs and Scoliosis Research Society Patient Questionnaire-24 scores. Disc degeneration using validated radiographic Weiner grades. Grade 0 to 1 discs were "healthy" and Grade 2 to 3 were degenerated. Patients with "healthy" discs preoperative that subsequently degenerated were designated subsequent advanced degeneration (SAD). Results: Two out of 31 patients had preoperative advanced degeneration of the L5-S1 disc (Weiner grade 2-3). Three additional patients had an early revision to the sacrum secondary to sagittal imbalance not thought to be related to SAD. Twenty-six out of 31 patients were assessed as "healthy discs" preoperative (Weiner grade 0-1) and were evaluated for SAD. By latest follow-up, L5-S1 SAD developed in 18 of these 26 patients (69%). Risk factors for the development of SAD included long fusions extending into the upper thoracic spine down to L5 (P = 0.02) and having a circumferential lumbar fusion (P = 0.02). Although preoperative sagittal balance was not significantly different between the "healthy" and SAD group, sagittal balance at follow-up was: C7 plumb >5 cm in 67% of SAD patients and only 13% of "healthy" disc patients (P = 0.009). There was a trend toward inferior Scoliosis Research Society Patient Questionnaire-24 pain scores at follow-up in SAD patients (average score 4.1 vs. 3.4, P = 0.13). Eleven out of 30 patients (35%) had subsequent spinal surgery with 7 of 31 (23%) having extension of their fusion to the sacrum. An additional 6 of 31 (19%) were considered for extension to the sacrum but comorbidities precluded surgery (3 patients) or the patients declined further surgery (3 patients). Conclusion: Advanced L5-S1 DDD developed in 69% of deformity patients after long fusions to L5 with 5 to 15 year follow-up. SAD frequently results in significant positive sagittal balance at a minimum 5-year follow-up. Long fusions to the upper thoracic spine down to L5 and circumferential fusion may further promote subsequent L5-S1 disc degeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: A retrospective comparison study. Objective: To compare the postoperative proximal junctional change and revision prevalence as influenced by 3 different proximal levels after adult lumbar deformity instrumented fusion from the distal thoracic/upper lumbar spine (T9-L2) to L5 or S1. Summary Of Background Data: Few comparative studies on postoperative sagittal plane change and revision prevalence as influenced by 3 different proximal levels after adult lumbar deformity instrumented fusion from the distal thoracic/upper lumbar spine (T9-L2) to L5 or S1 have been published. Many surgeons have hypothesized that stopping proximally in the upper lumbar spine (L1 or L2) or the thoracolumbar junction (T11 or T12) would lead to a high percentage of rapid proximal degeneration, kyphosis, and decompensation because of the concentration of stress on these relatively mobile segments. Therein, many surgeons have felt it is unsafe to stop at these regions of the spine and it is better to always stop proximally at T9 or T10. Methods: A clinical and radiographic assessment in addition to revision prevalence of 125 adult lumbar deformity patients (average age 57.1 year) who underwent long (average 7.1 vertebrae) segmental posterior spinal instrumented fusion from the distal thoracic/upper lumbar spine (T9-L2) to L5 or S1 with a minimum 2-year follow-up (2-19.8 year follow-up) were compared as influenced by T9-T10 (group 1, n = 37), T11-T12 (group 2, n = 49), and L1-L2 (group 3, n = 39) proximal fusion levels. The revision prevalence and sagittal Cobb angle change at the proximal junction after surgery were compared. Results: Three groups demonstrated nonsignificant differences in the prevalence of proximal junctional kyphosis (group 1 51% vs. group 2 55% vs. group 3 36%, P = 0.20) and revision (group 1 24% vs. group 2 24% vs. group 3 26%, P = 0.99) at the ultimate follow-up. Subsequent proximal junctional angle and sagittal vertical axis changes between the ultimate follow-up and preoperative (P = 0.10 and 0.46 respectively) were not significantly different. The SRS total and all subscale outcomes scores among the 3 groups did not demonstrate significant differences (P > 0.50). Conclusion: Three different proximal fusion levels did not demonstrate significant radiographic and clinical outcomes or revision prevalence after surgery. Therefore the more distal proximal fusion level at a neutral and stable vertebra may be satisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN: Matched cohort comparison. OBJECTIVE: This study examines the potential for aprotinin to conserve blood in adults undergoing long thoracolumbar deformity procedures and characterizes patients at risk for acute renal failure. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Aprotinin has been shown to reduce intraoperative blood loss and reduce transfusion requirement in pediatric spine and cardiac surgery populations. Previous literature (before 2006) has not reported acute renal failure as a potential complication. This study was designed to examine the efficacy of aprotinin in reducing operative blood loss following long spinal arthrodesis in adult spinal deformity patients and to analyze complications. METHODS: Adult spinal deformity patients undergoing long spinal arthrodesis at 1 institution between 2001 and 2005 were analyzed. Patients were matched according to age and type of procedure performed. Forty patients received high-dose aprotinin (Group A) intraoperatively, and 41 patients matched as controls (Group NA) received no aprotinin. Outcome variables included intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative transfusion requirement, early postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirement, and postoperative complications. RESULTS: Average blood loss for Group A was 906 mL and 1.3 L for Group NA. The difference was statistically significant with a P < 0.05. Complications seen in Group A included 4 cases of acute renal failure requiring dialysis and 1 deep venous thrombosis. In Group NA, there was only 1 case of acute renal failure (presumed to be secondary to inadvertent gentamycin overdose) and 1 case of pulmonary embolus. The 4 Group A patients with acute renal failure were female, 61 to 73 years of age, with various comorbidities. All required inpatient hemodialysis. Three averaged 2 months of continued outpatient dialysis before resolution of renal compromise while 1 patient is on chronic dialysis. CONCLUSION: In long spinal arthrodesis for complex adult spinal deformity surgery, aprotinin does reduce intraoperative blood loss, but may increase the risk of acute renal failure, especially in women over the age of 60. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Retrospective radiographic outcomes analysis. Objective: We had 3 hypotheses: 1) a longer fusion; 2) a more proximal instrumented vertebra, and 3) circumferential fusion versus posterior-only fusion would increase the likelihood of adjacent segment disease (ASD). Summary Of Background Data: The literature analyzing risk factors, prevalence, and presentation of patients with ASD is varied and without clear consensus. Methods: A total of 188 patients with minimum 5-year follow-up who had lumbar/thoracolumbar fusion with pedicle screw instrumentation for degenerative disorders were included. Radiographic ASD was defined by: 1) development of spondylolisthesis >4 mm, 2) segmental kyphosis >10 degrees , 3) complete collapse of disc space, or 4) more than 2 grades worsening of Weiner classification. Clinical ASD was defined as 1) symptomatic spinal stenosis, 2) intractable back pain, or 3) subsequent sagittal or coronal imbalance. Results: Radiographic ASD occurred in 42.6% (80 of 188) of patients. Patients with radiographic ASD had worse Oswestry scores (20.3 vs. 12.5; P = 0.001) at ultimate follow-up than those without ASD. Clinical ASD developed in 30.3% (57 of 188) of patients. Clinical ASD manifested as spinal stenosis (n = 47), instability-type back pain (n = 5), and sagittal or coronal imbalance (n = 5). Age at surgery over 50 years and length of fusion were significant risk factors for the development of ASD in the lumbar spine. Fusion to L1-L3 proximally increased the risk of ASD when compared with L4 and L5. Circumferential fusion versus posterior fusion was not a significant factor in the development of ASD. Conclusion: Patients over the age of 50 were at higher risk of developing clinical ASD than those 50 years old or younger. Length of fusion was a significant risk factor in the development of ASD in the lumbar spine. Fusion up to L1-L3 increased the risk of ASD when compared with L4 and L5. Circumferential fusion, as opposed to posterolateral fusion, was not a statistically significant risk factor for the development of ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Clinical, radiographic, and outcomes assessment focusing on neurologic complications in patients undergoing pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO). Clinical data were collected prospectively. Radiographic analysis was performed retrospectively. Objective: To evaluate intraoperative and postoperative neurologic deficits following lumbar PSOs in order to determine risk factors, treatment strategies, and patient outcome. Summary Of Background Data: Although technically demanding, PSOs have been increasingly used to restore lumbar lordosis and correct sagittal deformity. Although some reports have commented on various complications of the procedure, to our knowledge, there have been no studies focusing on neurologic complications of the osteotomy. Methods: An analysis of 108 consecutive patients with an average age of 54.8 +/- 14.0 years and treated with a lumbar PSO at 1 institution over a 10-year period (1995-2005) was performed. Medical records, radiographs, and neuromonitoring data were analyzed. Clinical outcome was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-24 instruments. Results: A total of 108 PSOs were performed. Following surgery, lumbar lordosis increased from -17.1 degrees +/- 19.3 degrees to -49.3 degrees +/- 14.7 degrees (P < 0.000), and sagittal balance improved from 131 +/- 73 mm to 23 +/- 48 mm (P < 0.000). Intraoperative and postoperative deficits (defined as motor loss of 2 grades or more or loss of bowel/bladder control) were seen in 12 patients (11.1%) and were permanent in 3 patients (2.8%). With time motor function improved by 1 grade in 2 patients and all 3 were able to ambulate. Intraoperative neuromonitoring did not detect the deficits. In 9 patients, additional surgical intervention consisted of central enlargement and further decompression. Deficits were thought to be due to a combination of subluxation, residual dorsal impingement, and dural buckling. Conclusion: Intraoperative or postoperative neurologic deficits are relatively common following a PSO; however, in a majority of cases, deficits are not likely to be permanent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY DESIGN: Multicenter study. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to prospectively analyze responsiveness of the SRS-22 to change at 1 and 2 years following primary surgery. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: A number of efforts have been directed at validation of the SRS-22 instrument in the setting of adolescent and adult spinal deformity. However, few have extensively analyzed the ability of the instrument to detect change (brought on by surgical treatment) in adult scoliosis patients. METHODS: A multicenter prospective series of consecutive adult scoliosis patients (all primary/no revisions) were administered SRS-22, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)and Short Form-12 (SF-12) questionnaires preoperation and 1 and 2 years postoperation. Fifty-six patients had preoperative, 1-year postoperative, and 2-year postoperative data. RESULTS: The greatest changes from preoperation to 2-year postoperation were the SRS self-image domain followed by SRS total, SRS pain, and ODI scores. SRS pain and function scores significantly (P < 0.05) improved from 1-year to 2-year postoperation. There were not substantial differences in the outcome measures according to age or curve type. All outcome measures except SF-12 mental health showed statistically significant (P < 0.05) improvement from baseline to 2-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: Based on these 3 outcome tools, the greatest responsiveness to change was demonstrated by the SRS self-image domain followed by SRS total, then SRS pain, then ODI. This suggests that the SRS tool is more responsive than ODI, which is more responsive than SF-12 to change brought on by primary surgical treatment of adult scoliosis patients. Surgical treatment in adult scoliosis significantly improved pain, self-image, and function based on the health-related quality of life measures used in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Retrospective study. Objective: To report results at a minimum 5 years after pedicle subtraction osteotomy for fixed sagittal imbalance. Summary Of Background Data: No one has reported results of pedicle subtraction osteotomies with a 5- to 8-year follow-up. Method: Thirty-five consecutive patients with sagittal imbalance (29 females/6 males, average age at surgery, 53.1 years) treated with lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomies (1 at L1, 13 at L2, 20 at L3, and 1 at L4) at 1 institution were analyzed (average follow-up, 5.8 years; range, 5-7.6 years). Radiographic and clinical outcomes analysis was performed. Results: There were no significant regional radiographic changes between 2 years postoperative and the ultimate follow-up (proximal junctional change, P = 0.30; thoracic kyphosis, P = 0.38; and lumbar lordosis, P = 0.84), although many patients did demonstrate an increasingly anterior C7 sagittal plumb with time. Ten pseudarthroses (29%) occurred in 8 patients and were revised between 2 and 5 years postoperative. There were no pseudarthroses at the osteotomy level (9 at the thoracolumbar junction, 1 at the LS junction), but at the levels added to the previous fusions. There was no degradation in Oswestry and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) outcome scores between 2 years postoperative and ultimate follow-up (P = 0.23 and 0.90, respectively). Patients reported very good satisfaction (87%), good self-image (76%), good function (69%), and fair pain subscales (66%) at ultimate follow-up. Sagittal vertical axis <8 cm at ultimate follow-up was significant for better SRS outcomes scores (P = 0.038). Eight patients with revised pseudarthroses did not demonstrate poorer SRS outcomes scores (P = 0.52). Those 8 patients were queried after their pseudarthrosis revision surgery. Conclusion: Pedicle subtraction osteotomy can provide satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes for patients with a minimum 5-year follow-up despite needing pseudarthrosis revision and some component of increasingly positive sagittal vertical axis between 2 years and 5 to 8 years of follow-up. The level of patient satisfaction and self-image subscales were high after more than 5 years of follow-up. Restoration and maintenance of sagittal vertical axis <8 cm were important to the ultimate sagittal reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Clinical radiographic and outcomes investigation. Objective: To investigate clinical and radiographic outcomes for lumbosacral fusion (in patients with spinal deformity) using a combination of bilateral sacral and iliac screws with a minimum 5-year follow-up. Summary Of Background Data: To our knowledge, long-term results (>5 years of follow-up) of bilateral S1 screw/bilateral iliac screw fixation have never been published or presented. Materials and Methods: A total of 67 patients (from an initial consecutive cohort of 81) undergoing lumbosacral fusion with bilateral sacral and iliac screws with a minimum follow-up of 5 years (range 5-10 + 5, average 6 + 3) were analyzed for radiographic outcome and clinical course by an outcome questionnaire (administered at ultimate follow-up) analysis. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1, 34 patients with mostly high-grade spondylolisthesis; and group 2, 33 with adult scoliosis fused mostly from the thoracic spine to the sacrum. A true anteroposterior pelvis film was obtained in all patients to assess for sacroiliac joint arthritis, as were standard spine radiographs. Patients were administered Oswestry and directed buttock pain questionnaires at latest follow-up. Results: There were no cases of sacral screw failure (i.e., screw loosening, partial screw pullout, or fracture of the sacral screw). There were 5 cases of nonunion at L5-S1. Of the 5 cases, 3 did not have anterior column support at L5-S1. Four of the 5 cases were revised, and, subsequently, 3 achieved union. Iliac screws were removed electively on 1 or both sides in 23 of the patients after 2 years postoperatively because of prominence. There were 7 cases of iliac screw breakage. Iliac screw halos were observed in 29 patients. No sacroiliac osteoarthritis was observed on the true anteroposterior pelvis films. At ultimate follow-up, average visual analog painscale (0-10) score to assess buttock pain was 2.4, and average Oswestry score was 20.1. Conclusions: For high-grade spondylolisthesis and long adult deformity fusions to the sacrum, a montage of bilateral S1 screws and iliac screws were effective in protecting the sacral screws from failure. Pseudarthrosis at L5-S1 was manifested by rod breakage at that level. We saw no evidence of a long-term effect of the iliac screws predisposing the sacroiliac joints to degeneration at follow-up ranging from 5 to 10 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The long-term pulmonary function of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis undergoing surgical correction is uncertain. To our knowledge, no report has demonstrated the changes in pulmonary function five years or more following spinal arthrodesis with use of modern segmental spinal instrumentation techniques for the treatment of all types of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in a similar adolescent population.Methods: One hundred and eighteen patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis undergoing surgical treatment at a single institution were evaluated with pulmonary function tests to assess the absolute and percent-predicted value of forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one second at the preoperative examination and at regular intervals postoperatively. The patients were divided into four groups depending upon the surgical procedure: Group 1 comprised forty-nine patients who had posterior spinal arthrodesis with iliac crest bone graft; Group 2, forty-one patients who had posterior spinal arthrodesis with thoracoplasty; Group 3, sixteen patients who had open anterior spinal arthrodesis with a rib resection thoracotomy; and Group 4, twelve patients who had combined anterior and posterior spinal arthrodesis with a rib resection thoracotomy and iliac crest bone graft, respectively.Results: A comparison of absolute pulmonary function values from the preoperative and final follow-up evaluations demonstrated a significant (p < 0.0001) increase in both the forced vital capacity and the forced expiratory volume in one second for Group 1, whereas no change was seen in those values for Groups 2, 3, and 4. A comparison of the changes in the percent-predicted pulmonary function values demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) decreases in forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one second for Groups 2, 3, and 4, except for the latter value for Group 4, whereas Group 1 had no change.Conclusions: Patients who have had any type of chest cage disruption during the surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis demonstrate no change in the absolute value and a significant decline in the percent-predicted value of pulmonary functions at five years following surgery. Chest cage preservation is recommended to maximize both absolute and percent-predicted pulmonary function values after surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Radiographic analysis, outcomes analysis (pain scale, Oswestry, SRS-24), and accumulation of complications. Outcomes and complications collected prospectively. Radiographic analysis performed retrospectively. Objectives: To assess the benefits and stress complications of pedicle subtraction osteotomies for patients with fixed sagittal imbalance. Summary Of Background Data: Few reports on pedicle subtraction osteotomies exist in the peer-review literature for conditions other than trauma and ankylosing spondylitis. Materials and Methods: Thirty-three consecutive patients with sagittal imbalance treated with lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy at one institution (minimum 2-year follow-up) were analyzed. Complications were also analyzed for the entire group of consecutive pedicle subtraction osteotomies done at our institution to date (n = 66). Results: For the 33 patients with minimum 2-year follow-up, there were significant improvements in the overall Oswestry score (P 0.0001) and pain score (P = 0.0001). Most patients reported improvement in pain and self-image and reported overall satisfaction based on ultimate SRS-24 questionnaire. There was one pseudarthrosis in the lumbar spine through an area of pedicle subtraction osteotomy (area of previous laminectomy and nonunion), and six patients had thoracic pseudarthroses (levels other than the osteotomy level) and one patient had a pseudarthrosis at L5-S1. Two patients had acute angular kyphosis at the thoracolumbar junction at the proximal end of the construct. Five patients who experienced transient neurologic deficits resolved their deficits after central canal enlargement. Conclusions: The clinical result with pedicle subtraction osteotomy is reduced with pseudarthrosis in the thoracic or lumbar spine and subsequent breakdown adjacent to the fusion. For patients with a degenerative sagittal imbalance etiology the results were worse and the complications were higher. Central canal enlargement is critical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]