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The effect of preoperative symptom duration (PSD) on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for radiculopathy is unclear.To determine whether PSD is a predictor for PRO after ACDF for radiculopathy.The Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative registry was queried between March, 2014, and July, 2019, for patients who underwent ACDF without myelopathy and PROs (baseline, 90 days, 1 year, 2 years). PROs were measured by numerical rating scales for neck/arm pain, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Short Form-Physical Function (PROMIS-PF), EuroQol-5D (EQ5D), and North American Spine Society satisfaction. Univariate analyses were used to evaluate the proportion of patients reaching minimal clinically important differences (MCID). PSD was3 months, 3 month-1 year, or1 years. Multiple logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between PSD and PRO reaching MCID. The discriminative ability of the model was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve.We included 2233 patients who underwent ACDF with PSD3 months (278, 12.4%), 3 month-1 year (669, 30%), and1 years (1286, 57.6%). Univariate analyses demonstrated a greater proportion of patients achieving MCID in3-month cohort for arm numerical rating scales, PROMIS-PF, EQ5D, and North American Spine Society Satisfaction. Multivariable analyses demonstrated using3 months PSD as a reference, PSD1 years was associated with decreased odds of achieving MCID for EQ5D (odds ratio 0.5, CI 0.32-0.80, P = .004). Private insurance and increased baseline PRO were associated with significantly higher odds for achieving PROMIS-PF MCID and EQ5D-MCID.Preoperative symptom duration greater than 1 year in patients who underwent ACDF for radiculopathy was associated with worse odds of achieving MCID for multiple PROs.

Study Design: Longitudinal cohort study.Purpose: To determine the effect of change in interspace height on fusion and postoperative neck pain.Overview of Literature: The optimal height of a cervical interbody device (cage) in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is not well defined. In addition, the effect of interspace distraction on fusion and postoperative neck pain remains unclear.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the charts of consecutive patients who underwent one- or two-level ACDF using polyetheretherketone cages by multiple surgeons from January 2015 to June 2016. We excluded patients younger than 18 years old, patients who had prior surgery at the same level (s), those with two-stage procedures, and those with less than 3 months of followup. Fusion was determined using the “Song” criteria. Ordinal regression was used to determine predictors of fusion. Patient-reported outcomes (PRO) were analyzed.Results: We identified 323 consecutive patients. Twenty-two patients met the exclusion criteria. A total of 435 operative levels were included in the 301 remaining patients. Interspace fusion did not significantly vary by increasing interspace height with fusion rates between 76.2% and 82.8% at a mean follow-up of 17.9±12.6 months. The effect of an increase in interspace height and neck pain PRO was available for 163 patients who underwent one-level ACDF at a mean follow-up period of 16.2±13.1 months. We found no significant difference in fusion rate or neck pain score with increasing interspace height from 1 to 8 mm. Ordinal regression demonstrated no significant predictors of fusion.Conclusions: Interspace distraction from 1 to 8 mm did not result in significantly different pseudarthrosis rates or postoperative neck pain.

STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review of prospectively collected data at a single institution. OBJECTIVE To compare perioperative and clinical outcomes in morbidly obese patients who underwent minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MiTLIF). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Obesity remains a serious public health concern. Obese patients who undergo lumbar fusion have historically thought to be at higher risk for complications and fare worse regarding quality-of-life outcomes. However, recent literature may demonstrate comparable risk and outcomes in obese patients. An increasing number of patients are categorized as morbidly obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 40 kg/m2). Perioperative and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are lacking in this patient population. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed a prospectively collected database of all morbidly obese and non-obese patients that underwent MiTLIF between 2015 and 2018 for degenerative conditions who had minimum 1-year follow-up for outcome assessment. An inverse propensity/probability of treatment weighting was utilized to create a synthetic weighted sample in which covariates were independent of obesity designation to adjust for imbalance between groups. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) was used to estimate the association of morbid obesity and complications and 1-year PROs. RESULTS A total of 292 patients were analyzed with 234 non-obese patients and 58 morbidly obese patients. Multivariate analysis failed to demonstrate any association between morbid obesity and achieving minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for Oswestry disability index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS), or short form-12 (SF-12) physical component score. However, morbid obesity was associated with significant decrease in odds of achieving MCID for SF-12 mental component score (P = 0.001). Increased surgery duration was significantly associated with morbid obesity (P = 0.001). Morbid obesity exhibited no statistically significant association with postoperative complications, readmission, pseudarthrosis, or adjacent segment disease (ASD). CONCLUSION Morbidly obese patients who undergo MiTLIF can achieve meaningful clinical improvement comparable to nonobese patients. Morbid obesity was associated with longer surgical times but was not associated with postoperative complications, readmission, or ASD.Level of Evidence: 3.

STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review of a multi-institutional data registry. OBJECTIVE The authors sought to determine the association between age and complications & patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in patients undergoing multilevel transforaminal interbody lumbar fusion (MTLIF). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Elderly patients undergoing MTLIF are considered high risk. However, data on complications and PRO are lacking. Additionally, safety of multilevel lumbar fusion in the elderly remains uncertain. METHODS Patients ≥50-year-old who underwent MTLIF for degenerative lumbar spine conditions were analyzed. Ninety-day complications and PROs (baseline, 90-d, 1-y, 2-y) were queried using the MSSIC database. PROs were measured by back & leg visual analog scale (VAS), Patient-reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D), and North American Spine Society (NASS) Patient Satisfaction Index. Univariate analyses were used to compare among elderly and complication cohorts. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to identify predictors of complications and PROs. RESULTS A total of 3120 patients analyzed with 961 (31%) ≥ 70-y-o and 2159 (69%) between 50-69. A higher proportion of elderly experienced postoperative complications (P = .003) including urinary retention (P =

Minimally invasive fusion of the sacroiliac (SI) joint has gained popularity for the treatment of refractory dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of minimally invasive SI joint fusion between cylindrical threaded implants (CTIs) and triangular dowel implants (TDIs).We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent SI joint fusions with either CTIs or TDIs. Data collected included patient demographics, perioperative data, and all patient-reported outcomes (PROs) including postoperative visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index, and Short Form-12 at 6 months and 1 year. The change from baseline PROs between the cohorts was analyzed as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included revision rates and time to revision between the two cohorts. A P value0.05 was considered significant.One hundred fifty-six consecutive patients underwent SI joint fusion, 74 patients with CTIs and 82 with TDIs. There was a significant difference in procedure length with CTI averaging 60.0 minutes (confidence interval: 55.7-64.3) and TDI averaging 41.2 minutes (confidence interval: 38.4-43.9, P0.0005). In both cohorts, there was a significant improvement in all PROs at 6 months when compared with preoperative values. However, when compared, there was no significant difference between the cohorts at 6-month follow-up or 1-year follow-up for either VAS-back, VAS-leg, Oswestry Disability Index, or Short Form-12. A 6.1% revision rate in the CTI cohort was observed compared with a 2.4% revision rate in the TDI cohort (P = 0.11).SI joint fusions with TDI or CTI offer a significant improvement in pain, disability, and quality of life. However, no difference was observed between devices to suggest superior clinical outcomes. Increased revision rates in the Rialto group warrants further investigation.

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected registry data using multivariable analyses of imputed data.We sought to demonstrate that age would not be associated with complications in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).Elderly patients (≥70 yrs) undergoing ACDF are considered a higher risk for complications. However, conclusive evidence is lacking. The Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) is a quality improvement collaborative with 30 hospitals across Michigan.The study included all patients who had 1 to 4 level ACDF (September 2015-August 2019) for 90-day complications. Major and minor complications were defined using a validated classification. Multiple imputations were used to generate complete covariate datasets. Generalized estimating equation model was used to identify associations with complications using the whole cohort and elderly subgroup analyses. Bonferroni correction was used.Nine thousand one hundred thirty five patients (11.1% ≥ 70 yrs and 88.9%70 yrs) with 2266 complications were analyzed. Comparing elderly versus non-elderly, the elderly had a significantly higher rate of any complications (31.5% vs. 24.0%, P 0.001) and major complications (14.1% vs. 7.0%, P 0.001). On multivariable analysis, age was not independently associated with any complication. POD#0 ambulation and preop independent ambulation were independently associated with significantly decreased odds of any complication. In the elderly, independent preoperative ambulation was protective for any complication (odds ratio [OR] 0.53, 0.39-0.73 95% confidence interval [CI]), especially major complications (OR 0.41, 0.27-0.61 95% CI).Age was not an independent risk factor for complications in patients that underwent ACDF. In the elderly, independent preoperative ambulation was especially protective for major complications.Level of Evidence: 3.

STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected registry data using multivariable analyses of imputed data. OBJECTIVE We sought to demonstrate that age would not be associated with complications in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Elderly patients (≥70 yrs) undergoing ACDF are considered a higher risk for complications. However, conclusive evidence is lacking. The Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) is a quality improvement collaborative with 30 hospitals across Michigan. METHODS The study included all patients who had 1 to 4 level ACDF (September 2015-August 2019) for 90-day complications. Major and minor complications were defined using a validated classification. Multiple imputations were used to generate complete covariate datasets. Generalized estimating equation model was used to identify associations with complications using the whole cohort and elderly subgroup analyses. Bonferroni correction was used. RESULTS Nine thousand one hundred thirty five patients (11.1% ≥ 70 yrs and 88.9%

BACKGROUND Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and its connective tissue laxity often result in high-grade lumbosacral spondylolisthesis. Patients present with debilitating symptoms and neurological deficits. Reports of surgical techniques in non-EDS patients for the treatment of high-grade lumbosacral spondylolisthesis mainly described an open approach, multilevel fusions, and multiple stages with different circumferential approaches. Sagittal adjusting screws (SASs) can be used in a minimally invasive (MI) fashion, allowing intraoperative reduction. OBSERVATIONS A 17-year-old female with EDS presented to the authors’ institute with severe lower back and left L5 radicular pain in 2017. She presented with a left foot drop and difficulty ambulating. Magnetic resonance imaging showed grade IV L5–S1 spondylolisthesis. She underwent lumbar fusion for intractable back pain with radiculopathy. Intraoperatively, percutaneous SASs and extension towers were used to distract the L5–S1 disc space and reduce the spondylolisthesis. MI transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion was completed with significant symptomatic relief postoperatively. The patient was discharged to home 3 days postoperatively. Routine follow-up visits up to 3 years later demonstrated solid fusion radiographically and favorable patient-reported outcomes. LESSONS The authors used SASs in a MI approach to successfully correct and stabilize grade IV spondylolisthesis in an EDS patient with a favorable long-term patient-reported outcome.

Postoperative pain control following posterior lumbar fusion continues to be challenging and often requires high doses of opioids for pain relief. The use of ketorolac in spinal fusion is limited due to the risk of pseudarthrosis. However, recent literature suggests it may not affect fusion rates with short-term use and low doses.We sought to demonstrate noninferiority regarding fusion rates in patients who received ketorolac after undergoing minimally invasive (MIS) posterior lumbar interbody fusion. Additionally, we sought to demonstrate ketorolac's opioid-sparing effect on analgesia in the immediate postoperative period.This is a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. We are reporting our interim analysis.Adults with degenerative spinal conditions eligible to undergo a one to three-level MIS transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF).Six-month and 1-year radiographic fusion as determined by Suk criteria, postoperative opioid consumption as measured by intravenous milligram morphine equivalent, length of stay, and drug-related complications. Self-reported and functional measures include validated visual analog scale, short-form 12, and Oswestry Disability Index.A double-blinded, randomized placebo-controlled, noninferiority trial of patients undergoing 1- to 3-level MIS TLIF was performed with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP). Patients were randomized to receive a 48-hour scheduled treatment of either intravenous ketorolac (15 mg every 6 hours) or saline in addition to a standardized pain regimen. The primary outcome was fusion. Secondary outcomes included 48-hour and total postoperative opioid use demonstrated as milligram morphine equivalence, pain scores, length of stay (LOS), and quality-of-life outcomes. Univariate analyses were performed. The present study provides results from a planned interim analysis.Two hundred and forty-six patients were analyzed per protocol. Patient characteristics were comparable between the groups. There was no significant difference in 1-year fusion rates between the two treatments (p=.53). The difference in proportion of solid fusion between the ketorolac and placebo groups did not reach inferiority (p=.072, 95% confidence interval, -.07 to .21). There was a significant reduction in total/48-hour mean opioid consumption (p.001) and LOS (p=.001) for the ketorolac group while demonstrating equivalent mean pain scores in 48 hours postoperative (p=.20). There was no significant difference in rates of perioperative complications.Short-term use of low-dose ketorolac in patients who have undergone MIS TLIF with BMP demonstrated noninferior fusion rates. Ketorolac safely demonstrated a significant reduction in postoperative opioid use and LOS while maintaining equivalent postoperative pain control.

BACKGROUND: Telemedicine refers to various modalities for remote care, including telephone calls, imaging review, and real-time video teleconferencing visits. Although it has not been widely used in outpatient neurosurgery settings, the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic has necessitated a broader adoption. Our goal is to show the level of patient satisfaction with their telemedicine care. METHODS: We prospectively studied consecutive telemedicine patients who scheduled outpatient neurosurgery visits from May 15 to June 8, 2020. Patients were seen by the surgeon via real-time video conferencing using Google Meet, and then completed a telemedicine satisfaction survey. Our primary outcome was telemedicine satisfaction scores. We compared satisfaction scores between new and established patients and between patients within and outside of a 15-mile radius of the nearest clinic location. Sensitivity analyses were performed to account for the nonrespondents. Descriptive and univariate analyses were performed. A P value of

INTRODUCTION Beginning in March, 2020, hospitals across the majority of the United States were required to cancel all elective surgery in preparation for a surge of patients with the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). A large number of neurosurgical patients with less than emergency conditions had their surgery postponed indefinitely. METHODS The Delphi method was used to obtain consensus. Twenty-two neurosurgeons actively practicing in two separate geographic regions of the United States where “black level” COVID-19 surges occurred (New York Metropolitan Area and Detroit, Michigan) participated. A total of 86 neurosurgical case scenarios were categorized into six tiers of priority: emergent or within 24 hours, within 48 hours, within 1 week, within 2 weeks, within one month, or post hospital crisis/more than 4 weeks. Consensus was defined as 75% of participants reaching an agreement. Majority opinion (>50% agreement) was also reported. RESULTS 67 of the 86 surgical scenarios (78%) reached a consensus agreement with 85 out of 86 scenarios reaching at least a majority opinion. Only one scenario (central cord syndrome) did not reach any agreement. CONCLUSION The NNPI developed in this study can assist neurosurgical departments in prioritizing the timing of surgery, whether it be due to a pandemic, or any other scenario where the normal work flow has been severely disrupted and resources are limited.

BACKGROUND: The United States is facing an opioid addiction epidemic with >63,600 deaths from drug overdoses in 2016 alone. Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that has been shown to decrease postoperative pain in decompressive lumbar laminectomies. We sought to demonstrate that intraoperative intramuscular (IM) ketorolac is associated with decreased opioid use in the management of acute postoperative pain in thoracolumbar spinal fusions. METHODS: A retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing open and minimally invasive (MIS) thoracolumbar fusions between 2017 and 2018. Ketorolac (30 mg) was injected into the paraspinal muscles adjacent to the operative site before closure. Patients were placed on a standard pain control regimen. All demographic and surgical data were assessed with univariate analysis to assess for differences between groups. Univariate analysis was used to identify significant covariates for the linear regressions with postoperative morphine equivalents, length of stay (LOS), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain as dependent variables. A P < .025 was considered significant to account for multiple covariates. RESULTS: Two hundred twenty-five consecutive patients were included with 58 patients receiving intraoperative IM ketorolac. The average age of the ketorolac groups was 63.4 years (23–87 years) with an even distribution between genders. There was no significant difference in demographic or surgical data between the 2 cohorts. Postoperative opioid use, when corrected for LOS, showed no significance between cohorts, ketorolac 16.4 mg (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.3–20.5) and nonketorolac 6.7 mg (95% CI: 14.1–19.4, P = .8729). Other than postoperative day zero VAS (P = .05), ketorolac was not a predictor of opioid use, LOS, or VAS. CONCLUSION: The use of a single dose of intraoperative IM ketorolac did not decrease the overall opioid requirements or shorten the LOS following open or MIS lumbar fusions. However, we did demonstrate benefit in early pain control, which makes this promising for further investigation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This article promotes attention to the opioid crisis and the need for multimodal nonopioid based pain management in spine surgery.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Postoperative pain control following posterior lumbar fusion continues to be challenging and often requires high doses of opioids for pain relief. The use of ketorolac in spinal fusion is limited due to the risk of pseudarthrosis. However, recent literature suggests it may not affect fusion rates with short-term use and low doses. PURPOSE We sought to demonstrate non-inferiority regarding fusion rates in patients who received ketorolac after undergoing minimally invasive (MIS) posterior lumbar fusions. Additionally, we sought to demonstrate ketorolac's opioid-sparing effect on analgesia in the immediate postoperative period. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING This is a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. We are reporting our interim analysis. PATIENT SAMPLE Adults with degenerative spinal conditions eligible to undergo a 1- to 3-level minimally invasive lumbar spinal fusion. OUTCOME MEASURES Six-month and 1-year radiographic fusion as determined by Suk criteria, postoperative opioid consumption as measured by intravenous milligram morphine equivalent (MME), length of stay (LOS), and drug-related complications. Self-reported and functional measures include validated visual analog scale (VAS), short-form 12 (SF-12), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). METHODS A double-blinded, randomized placebo-controlled, non-inferiority trial of patients undergoing 1- to 3-level minimally invasive (MIS) transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) was performed. Patients were randomized to receive a 48-hour scheduled treatment of either intravenous ketorolac (15mg every 6 hours) or saline in addition to a standardized pain regimen. The primary outcome was fusion. Secondary outcomes included 48-hour and total postoperative opioid use demonstrated as MME, pain scores, LOS, and quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. The present study provides results from a planned interim analysis. RESULTS Two hundred and forty-six patients were analyzed per protocol. Patient characteristics were comparable between the groups. There was no significant difference in 1-year fusion rates between the two treatments (p=.53). The difference in proportion for solid fusion between the ketorolac and placebo groups did not reach inferiority (.072, 95% CI, -.07-.21). There was a significant reduction in total/48-hour mean opioid consumption (p CONCLUSION Short-term use of low-dose ketorolac in patients who have undergone MIS lumbar fusion demonstrated favorable results suggesting non-inferior fusion rates. Ketorolac safely demonstrated a significant reduction in postoperative opioid use and LOS while maintaining equivalent postoperative pain control. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS Not applicable.

Background content The risks and benefits of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP) in posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) have been widely reported. However, the BMP dose associated with such reports varied widely. Additionally, data on the location of BMP placement on complications and fusion is lacking. Purpose To determine the minimally effective dose (MED) of BMP which results in optimal fusion rates while minimizing complications; to determine the effects of the location of BMP placement has on fusion rates and complications. Study Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Study Sample Adult patients undergoing PLIF/TLIF for degenerative indications. Outcome Measures Rates of radiculitis, fusion, osteolysis, heterotopic bone formation and new cancer diagnosis. Methods PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Database were used to identify studies published between 1/1/2011-8/1/2019 reporting BMP usage in adult patients who underwent PLIF/TLIF degenerative indications. A qualitative and quantitative synthesis was performed to evaluate the MED of BMP and the effect of location of BMP placement on fusion and complications. Complications were defined as osteolysis, heterotopic bone growth, radiculitis, and rate of new cancer diagnosis. Complications and fusion outcomes were each pooled according to commercially available BMP doses. Additionally, complications and fusion outcomes were pooled according to four location groups (interbody cage only, interbody cage + posterolateral gutter [PLG], cage + interspace, and interspace + PLG). Heterogeneity was assessed with Q and I2 statistics. Results Twenty-two articles, totaling 2,729 patients were included. Sixteen studies reported fusion and 15 reported complications. Among fusion studies, the mean BMP/level ranged from 1.28-12 mg/level. Among complication studies, the mean BMP/level ranged from 6.7-23.6 mg/level. The pooled overall fusion rate was 94.0% (91.4-95.8 CI). There was no significant difference in fusion and complication rates between different BMP doses. Thirteen studies included data on the location of BMP placement with 1,823 patients. At each BMP location, the fusion rate was not significantly different across the dose ranges (1.28-12 mg/level). We found the fusion rate to be marginally higher in the interspace + PLG group compared to the other groups. When BMP was placed in the interbody cage there was a mild increase in the rate of osteolysis compared to other placement locations. Conclusion Fusion and complication rates did not differ significantly between different doses of BMP with the lowest MED for fusion as low as 1.28 mg/level. The location of BMP placement does not significantly affect fusion or complication rates.

This is a case report and literature review. The objectives of the study are to describe minimally invasive treatment of pedicle fractures, to show contralateral pedicle changes with pedicle fracture treatment, and to review literature on incidence and mechanism of neural arch fractures. After conservative therapy, there are several options for the treatment of pedicle fractures including pediculoplasty, osteosynthesis, or fusion. As patients' age increases, the incidence of pedicle fracture may rise and minimally invasive pedicle screw treatment represents a good motion-preserving option to stabilize without fusion. We report a patient with spontaneous pedicle fractures above a degenerative spondylolisthesis and evidence of contralateral pedicle changes at L2 and L3. After minimally invasive pedicle screw placement, postoperative imaging demonstrated trabeculation across both L2 and L3 fractures with a resolution of contralateral pedicle sclerotic changes and healing of incompletely fracture contralateral pedicle at L2. Pedicle fractures lead to contralateral pedicle sclerotic changes and potential fracture and may cause significant back pain. Stabilization and healing of the neural arch can be achieved with minimally invasive placement of pedicle screws without need for fusion.

Study design This was a single-institute retrospective study. Objective To describe perioperative and postoperative complications in elderly who underwent multilevel minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF) while identifying predictors of complications. Summary of background data The number of elderly patients undergoing spinal fusion is rising. Spinal surgery in the elderly is considered high risk with high rates of complications. Perioperative and postoperative complications in elderly undergoing multilevel MIS TLIF is, however, not known. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on 467 consecutive patients who underwent multilevel MIS TLIF at a single institution from 2013 to 2017. Two cohorts, 70 years or older and 50 to 69 years old were analyzed. Multiple logistic regressions with minor and major complication rates as the dependent variables were performed to identify predictors of complication based on previously cited risk factors. A p-value of 0.008 or less was considered significant. Results One hundred fifty-two elderly and 315 nonelderly patients underwent multilevel MIS TLIFs. The average age was 76.4 and 60.4 years for the elderly and nonelderly cohorts. We observed 13 major (8.44%) and 72 minor (47.4%) complications in the elderly. No difference was noted in complication rates between the cohorts, except for urinary tract infection (P = .004) and urinary retention (P = .014). There were no myocardial infarctions; hardware complications; visceral, vascular, and neural injuries; or death. Length of stay, comorbidity, and length of surgery were predictive of major and minor complications. Conclusion Elderly may undergo multilevel MIS TLIF with comparable complication rates. Age was not a predictor of complications. Rather, attention should focus on evaluation of comorbidity and limiting operative times. Level of evidence 3.

A 39-year-old male presented with a two-month history of right hip pain. Computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated right sacroiliac joint space widening with cortical destruction and erosive changes in the iliopsoas muscle. Minimally invasive right sacroiliac joint fusion was performed with biopsy and aspirate, which confirmed positive Brucella cultures. The patient was started on long-term antibiotic therapy, and his pain significantly improved. Pyogenic sacroiliitis is a rare condition that requires a high index of suspicion. In this case, minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion successfully treated the patient's pain and instability as well as aided in the diagnosis of Brucella infection.

Recurrent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak carries significant morbidity and mortality. A 25-year-old Caucasian male developed a symptomatic pseudomeningocele eight days after surgical resection of a cervical schwannoma. With no improvement after lumbar drain placement, the dural sleeve defect over the left C3 nerve root was repaired with suturable DuraGen® (Integra LifeSciences, Plainsboro, NJ, USA). Muscle and fat graft were then laid over the repair site and covered by Tisseel® (Baxter Healthcare, Deerfield, IL, USA). Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) was applied via extra-small sponge laid over the graft. At 15-month clinical and 16-month radiographic follow-up, the patient had complete resolution of symptoms without any evidence of infection, ectopic bone formation, excessive inflammation, neoplasm, or recurrent CSF leak. This case demonstrates the successful use of BMP in the treatment of recurrent symptomatic cervical pseudomeningocele after tumor resection. We believe that the pro-inflammatory effects of rhBMP-2 lead to early scarring of dural defect and resolution of CSF leak.

Background: Injury to the cisterna chyli (CC) is a rare surgical complication with a lack of literature describing its repair. Aneurysm clips have been successfully used to repair durotomies. Its usage in lymphatic injury has never been described. We sought to demonstrate the use of aneurysm clips for the repair of lymphatic vessels. Case Description: A 60-year-old male retired physician with Parkinson’s disease underwent a lumbosacral instrumented fusion with pelvic fixation (L1-pelvis) in 2011. He returned 5 months postoperatively after a fall and was ambulatory with a cane upon admission. CT demonstrated worsening kyphosis with pedicular and superior endplate fracture at the fusion apex. MRI revealed spinal cord compression at the failed level. Extension thoracolumbar fusion was performed (T3-L1) with intraoperative violation of the anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) during T12/L1 discectomy. CC laceration was suspected. The ALL was dissected from the CC and aorta, allowing visualization of the injury. Three curved aneurysm clips were applied to the lacerated CC, which was visually inspected to ensure a patent lumen. The disk space was filled with poly-methyl-methacrylate cement in place of an interbody cage, preventing migration of the clips. The patient underwent rehabilitation in an inpatient facility with improved ambulation. He has had regular clinic follow-up and was last seen in 2020 with no evidence of lymphedema noted. Conclusion: CC injury is rare, and usage of aneurysm clips in its repair has never been described. We demonstrate the safe use of aneurysm clips to repair CC injury with long-term favorable clinical outcomes.

Introduction: Anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) procedures are common and neck scar appearance is important aesthetically. This study compared subcuticular suture closure with staple closure regarding the aesthetics of the neck incision scar. Methods: A single-blinded comparative prospective study with two cohorts involving one facility and multiple surgeons was done to study all consecutive patients who underwent one/two-level ACDF operations from 2015-2016. We excluded patients with corpectomies, postoperative wound infection, reoperations in the same admission, any previous ACDF operations, non-compliance in follow-up, and inability to give informed consent. We did single-layer skin stapling without platysma closure or subcuticular suture with platysma closure. Patients followed up between 1.5 and six months. We used the Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale (SBSES), range 0-5 with five being the best score. Digital images were taken in a standardized manner and saved in a secure database. A blinded plastic surgeon and a blinded neurosurgeon, not involved in the operation, evaluated the scars using SBSES. A priori sample size using a clinically significant difference of one was determined. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used; a p-value 30 kg/m2), chemotherapy or the length of the incision. There is no statistically significant difference regarding SBSES as evaluated by the plastic surgeon (staples vs. sutures, median 2 vs. 2, range 0-5, p = 0.32). There is a statistically significant difference as evaluated by the neurosurgeon (staples vs. sutures, median 4 vs. 3, range 0-5, p = 0.003). Post hoc power analysis was 0.90. Conclusion: Using the validated SBSES to assess the aesthetic outcome of ACDF scars, we demonstrated that staples and sutures provide equivalent aesthetic outcomes per plastic surgeon evaluation, and staple closure results in statistically significant better aesthetic outcomes per neurosurgeon evaluation.

Background Dysphagia following a cervical fusion is a known complication; however, this has not been examined in the trauma population. We sought to identify risk factors that can be optimized in this population. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review on consecutive trauma patients who underwent a cervical fusion from 2014 to 2017 at a single institution with multiple surgeons. We included patients more than 18-years-old who were admitted through the emergency department with a diagnosis of acute cervical injury and underwent a cervical fusion during the same admission. We excluded patients who remained intubated postoperatively or underwent a tracheostomy. The primary outcome was dysphagia as evaluated by a bedside swallow test on postoperative day one by the nursing staff. This was followed by a standardized assessment performed by a speech therapist on postoperative day two in some cases. Variables of interest included sex, age, mechanism of injury, surgical approach, cervical levels, and Charlson comorbidity index. Univariate analysis was also utilized. Results Sixty patients met the study criteria. Nineteen patients (31.7%) developed dysphagia postoperatively. Mechanical falls were the most common injury mechanism (80%) and most surgical procedures were performed on the subaxial cervical spine (68.3%). Comparing the dysphagia groups, there was no significant difference among the confounding variables. Patients with dysphagia had an increased length of stay (10.6 ± 6.7 vs. 7.4 ± 3.1, p = 0.056) and were more likely to have had an anterior vs. posterior cervical fusion (63.2% vs. 34.1%, p = 0.056). Conclusions We found no statistically significant risk factors leading to postoperative dysphagia. The objective of this pilot is to find the baseline dysphagia rate and the potential modifiable factors in this unique patient population undergoing cervical fusion procedures.

STUDY DESIGN A biomechanical ex vivo study of the human lumbar spine. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of transpedicular screw insertion depth on overall screw stability and pullout strength following cyclic loading in the osteoporotic lumbar spine. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Although much is known about the clinical outcomes of spinal fusion, questions remain in our understanding of the biomechanical strength of lumbar pedicle screw fixation as it relates to screw sizing and placement. Biomechanical analyses examining ideal pedicle screw depth with current pedicle screw technology are limited. In the osteoporotic spine, optimized pedicle screw insertion depth may improve construct strength, decreasing the risk of loosening or pullout. METHODS A total of 100 pedicles from 10 osteoporotic lumbar spines were randomly instrumented with pedicle screws in mid-body, pericortical, and bicortical depths. Instrumented specimens underwent cyclic loading (5000 cycles of ±2 N m pure flexion moment) and subsequent pullout. Screw loosening, failure loads, and energy absorption were calculated. RESULTS Cyclic loading significantly (P

Study Design: Retrospective consecutive case series. Objective: The objective of this case series was to demonstrate the safety of a modified transfacet pedicle–sparing decompression and instrumented fusion in patients with thoracic disc herniations (TDHs). Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing operative management of TDH from July 2007 to December 2011 using a posterior unilateral modified transfacet pedicle–sparing approach were identified. All patients underwent open or minimally invasive modified transfacet pedicle–sparing discectomy and segmental instrumentation with interbody fusion, performed by four different surgeons. Pre- and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, Nurick grade, and American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) were analyzed from a retrospective chart review. Estimated blood loss and complications were also obtained. Results: Fifty-one patients were included that had operations for TDH. Thirty-nine patients had single level decompression and 12 had multilevel decompression. The total number of levels operated on was 64. Five patients were treated with minimally invasive surgery. A herniated disc level of T11-12 (n = 17) was treated most often. One major complication of epidural hematoma occurred. Minor complications such as malpositioned hardware, postoperative hematoma, wound infection, pseudoarthrosis, and pulmonary complications occurred in a few patients. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 46 months with 1 patient lost to follow-up. From preoperative to final postoperative: mean VAS scores improved from 8.31 to 4.05, AIS in all patients remained stable or improved, and Nurick scores improved from 3 to 2.6 on average. No intraoperative or permanent neurological deficit occurred. Conclusion: In our surgical series, 51 consecutive patients underwent modified transfacet pedicle–sparing approach to TDHs and experienced improvement of functional status as well as improvement of objective pain scales with no neurological complications. The posterior unilateral modified transfacet pedicle–sparing decompression and instrumented fusion approach to the thoracic spine is a safe and reproducible procedure for the treatment of TDHs.

IntroductionKetorolac has been shown to provide quality postoperative pain control and decrease opioid requirement with minimal side effects following spinal surgery. However, the literature addressing its use in spinal fusions is highly variable in both its effectiveness and complications, such as pseudarthrosis. Recent literature postulates that ketorolac may not affect fusion rates and large randomised controlled trials are needed to demonstrate ketorolac as a safe and effective adjuvant treatment to opioids for postoperative pain control.Methods and analysisThis is a multihospital, prospective, double-blinded, randomised placebo-controlled trial. Data concerning fusion rates, postoperative opioid use, pain scores, length of stay will be recorded with the aim of demonstrating that the use of ketorolac does not decrease thoracolumbar spinal fusion rates while identifying possible adverse events related to short-term minimal effective dose compared with placebo. Additionally, this investigation aims to demonstrate a decrease in postoperative opioid use demonstrated by a decrease in morphine equivalence while showing equivalent postoperative pain control and decrease the average length of stay.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval was obtained at all participating hospitals by the institutional review board. The results of this study will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberNCT03278691.

Background: The authors sought to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the multilevel stabilization screw (MLSS) technique in decreasing the incidence of proximal junctional failure in long segmental instrumented fusions for adult degenerative scoliosis. Methods: Institutional review board approval was obtained and all patients with adult spinal deformity who underwent the MLSS technique were analyzed. A neuro-radiologist and spine-focused neurosurgeon not involved with the surgical treatment performed radiographic analysis. Proximal junctional angle was defined as the caudal endplate of the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) to the cephalad endplate of two supradjacent vertebrae above the UIV. The UIV is defined as the most cephalad vertebra completed captured by the instrumentation. Abnormal proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) was defined as proximal junctional sagittal Cobb angle >10 degrees and proximal junction sagittal Cobb angle at least 10 degrees greater than the preoperative measurement. The presence of both is criteria necessary to be considered abnormal. Results: Twenty patients with degenerative scoliosis underwent the MLSS technique with the upper-instrumented vertebrae in the proximal thoracic spine. Fifteen patients met inclusion criteria with greater than 12 months radiographic and clinical follow up. Three patients were excluded due to lack of follow up imaging and two patients were excluded due to the inability to measure the UIV. Age range was 44–84 years with a mean of 66. Eleven of the 15 patients were over the age of 60 at the time of surgery. The male-to-female ratio was 4:11. Body mass index (BMI) range was 24–44 with a mean of 31.5 units. The follow up period ranged from 14 to 58 months with an average follow up of 30 months. The mean change in Cobb angle at the proximal junction was 4.00 degrees with a range from -0.92 to 9.13 degrees. There were no fractures or instrumentation failures at or near the proximal junction. There was no revision surgeries performed for proximal junctional failure. Retrospective clinical questionnaires revealed that surgical expectations were met in 15 of 19 patients surveyed, 79%. One patient was not reachable for a postoperative phone interview. In patients who were not satisfied with their overall experience, the change in Cobb angle ranged from -0.92 to 9.13 degrees with an average change of 3.90 degrees. Whereas patients reporting an overall positive experience had a change in Cobb angle range from -0.12 to 8.07 degrees with an average change of 4.05 degrees. Conclusion: PJK and failure are well-recognized suboptimal outcomes of long-segmental fusions of the thoracolumbar spine that can lead to significant neurological morbidity and costly revision surgeries. With no known proximal junction failures to date, the MLSS technique has shown promising results in preventing adverse proximal junctional conditions and can be safely performed under fluoroscopy guidance. Future direction includes a comparative study establishing the relative risk of developing PJK with this novel technique versus a traditional long-segmental thoracolumbar fusion.

AIM To evaluate the feasibility of this novel surgical approach for treatment of cervical discitis and vertebral osteomyelitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS This is a report of two patients who underwent anterior cervical decompression for discitis and vertebral osteomyelitis (DVO) with cervical spine reconstruction with polymethylmethacrylate impregnated with antibiotics (AI-PMMA). RESULTS Both patients had successful procedures that were followed by 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotics. Stabilization and eradication of infection was achieved with clinical and radiographic stabilization seen in both. Follow-up is greater than 18 months and both patients remain off antibiotics. CONCLUSION The described technique using AI-PMMA offers immediate structural stability and local delivery of high concentration of antibiotics. Use in two patients has demonstrated a cost effective, long-term biomechanically stable construct and infection control.

Optimization of pedicle screw insertion depth for ideal fixation and fusion remains a clinical challenge. Improved screw purchase may improve fixation strength1, which is especially critical in an osteoporotic patient population. Extended screw insertion depths, up to and through the anterior cortex, have yet to be compared to more commonly used shorter pedicle screws in a laboratory controlled series of experiments. The purpose of this study is to evaluate screw purchase in the osteoporotic lumbar spine as a function of insertion depth, which may be used to optimize pedicle screw-rod constructs.Copyright © 2013 by ASME

Osteoporosis is a critical challenge in orthopedic surgery. Osteoporotic patients have an increased risk of loosening and failure of implant constructs due to a weaker bone-implant interface than with healthy bone. Pullout strength of pedicle screws is enhanced by increased screw insertion depth. However, more knowledge is needed to define optimal pedicle screw insertion depth in relation to screw-bone interface biomechanics and the resulting loosening risk. This study evaluates the effects of screw length on loosening risk in the osteoporotic lumbar spine.Copyright © 2013 by ASME

Background context Subdural hematomas (SDHs) have been described as a rare complication from durotomy after lumbar spine surgery. In half of the reported cases, the durotomy was unnoticed intraoperatively. The most common presenting symptom was persistent headache. Purpose To report a case of SDH after routine microdiscectomy and to review the literature. Study design Case report and review of the literature. Methods Retrospective review of patient's history and imaging studies. Results A 39-year-old female underwent routine microdiscectomy for L5–S1 herniated disc. There were no complications, and no dural tear was noted. Approximately 1 week postoperatively, the patient complained of severe headaches. Imaging revealed a right intracranial chronic SDH and a lumbar pseudomeningocele. Operative exploration of her lumbar wound revealed a dural tear, which was closed primarily. The patient had subsequent resolution of her SDH. Conclusions The authors present a case of a routine microdiscectomy complicated by delayed cerebrospinal leak causing a chronic SDH. This report illustrates the need for a comprehensive evaluation of headaches after spine surgery.

Introduction The authors present a 31-year-old man with a Chiari type I malformation (CM-1) occurring in conjunction with LEOPARD syndrome. He presented with severe dysphagia requiring placement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube. Evaluation included magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and cervical spine that revealed CM-1 with an extensive cervical syrinx. The patient underwent a suboccipital craniectomy with C1 laminectomy and duraplasty. His symptoms quickly resolved and his PEG tube was removed. Discussion The occurrence of a CM-1 with LEOPARD syndrome has only been reported once, whereas CM-1 and Noonan syndrome have been linked in several cases. The similarity between LEOPARD and Noonan syndromes has been reported and many propose they represent 2 entities along a spectrum. Conclusion In light of this spectrum, we propose that CM-1 should be considered in all patients presenting with LEOPARD-Noonan syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic postural headaches may suffer from spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Trauma, degenerative disc spurring and connective tissue disorders are documented risk factors; in most cases there is no inciting event. Despite sophisticated means of evaluating the neuraxis, many cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are radiographically occult and treatment is focused on thoracic and cervical-thoracic regions. Although lumbar epidural blood patch (EBP) is the initial treatment of choice after failed conservative management, several studies document the need for treatment aimed at the specific leak area. CASE DESCRIPTION: This report describes the case of a 42-year-old female with scleroderma and sudden onset postural headaches. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse pachymeningeal enhancement suggestive of intracranial hypotension. Computed tomographic myelography demonstrated a collection of fluid ventral to the cervical thecal sac; an exact location for CSF egress was not identified. Conservative measures followed by lumbar EBP failed to alleviate her symptoms. The patient underwent placement of a lumbar drain and dynamic radionuclide cisternography (RIC). Panoramic images of the spine were taken at the time of the pressurized saline injection. The CSF leak was clearly visualized at C1-2. Treatment was focused at this region using percutaneous injection of autologous blood and fibrin glue. CONCLUSION: SIH is disabling if left untreated. Spinal CSF leaks are often discrete and difficult to identify using static imaging. The use of pressurized, RIC by lumbar drain injection allows for the real-time evaluation of CSF dynamics and can more precisely identify slow flow leaks often missed with static imaging.

Background The underlying pathophysiology leading to syringomyelia is elusive with multiple flow-related theories constituting our current limited understanding of the disease process. Syringomyelia is associated with pathologies related to the disturbance of cerebral spinal fluid flow found in conditions such as Chiari I malformations, spinal malignancy, spinal cord tethering, trauma, or arachnoid adhesions. Our aim is to describe a unique surgical shunting technique used to treat refractory cases of idiopathic syringomyelia. Methods Five patients, aged 22-50, presented with progressive neurologic symptoms associated with an idiopathic syrinx. All underwent decompressive laminectomy surgery with syringosubarachnoid shunting using the silastic wedge technique. Results In five cases of idiopathic syringomyelia, clinical and radiographic follow up ranges from 3 to 36 months. Three patients have radiographic and clinical follow up greater than 24 months. All patients improved clinically and their symptoms have been stable. Conclusions Shunting procedures for the syringomyelia disease spectrum have been criticized due to the inconsistent long-term outcomes. This surgical technique used to treat symptomatic idiopathic syringomyelia has been devised based on our intraoperative experience, surgical outcomes, and evaluation of the literature. The purpose of the wedges is to preserve patency of the communication between the syrinx cavity and the expanded subarachnoid space by preventing healing of the myelotomy edges and by maintaining an artificial conduit between the syrinx cavity and the subarachnoid space. Although short-term results are promising, continued long-term follow up is needed to determine the ultimate success of the silastic wedge shunting procedure.

BACKGROUND: Dural injury is a common complication of lumbar spine surgery. Primary closure is the"gold standard," OBJECTIVE: This technical note describes a failed primary closure of a durotomy revised using an aneurysm clip. METHODS: From 2005 to 2009, 5 patients underwent repair of a durotomy with the use of aneurysm clips. Resolution of the cerebrospinal fluid leak was seen in all patients. An 84-year-old woman underwent a laminectomy with an inadvertent dural tear that was primarily repaired with suture. On postoperative day 8, the patient presented with new incisional drainage. The wound was explored, and the dura had torn around the previous sutured closure. A curved aneurysm clip was used to obtain dural closure. Postoperatively, the patient's incision remained dry. RESULTS: Microsurgical closure with suture is the primary modality in durotomy repair. Difficulty arises when the dura is friable and multiple small tears are present. Suturing worsens the durotomy. Also, the durotomy is often caused along a bony edge with limited visualization, requiring additional bone removal to suture, therefore risking destabilization of the spine. CONCLUSION: We describe the application of an aneurysm clip to treat a recurrent durotomy where the standard practice of sutured closure failed. Aneurysm clips offer a quick, safe, and secure manner to close dura without risking spinal destabilization. They offer significant benefit to already torn, friable dura. Postoperatively, patients have no limitations and are therefore prevented from being exposed to additional risks associated with bed rest. Aneurysm clips are cost and clinically effective in the management of dural injuries.