Is diabetes mellitus a risk factor for modic changes?: A novel model to understand the association between intervertebral disc degeneration and end-plate changes

ObjectiveMechanical failure and inflammatory response are two mechanisms proposed for the development of Modic changes, even though they have not been clearly demonstrated, yet. Diabetes mellitus (DM) harbors micro- and macroangiopathy due to the irreversible glycation of proteins, increased oxidative stress, and inflammation. In this study, we aimed to identify whether DM was associated with Modic changes in terms of inflammatory process.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study using our prospectively collected retrospective database of patients with DM who had visited the outpatient clinics at a university hospital. In 3999 patients with DM, 266 had spinal MRI due to cervical, thoracic or low back pain. We included patients, who had lumbar spine MRIs due to low back and/or leg pain and blood draw for HbA1c simultaneously. We analyzed 48 symptomatic patients with DM. We had also symptomatic patients without DM as control group.ResultsSevere intervertebral disc degeneration was significantly associated with Modic changes. Severe intervertebral disc degeneration had no significant association with serum HbA1c percentage and DM duration. Patients with Modic changes at any lumbar level had significantly higher HbA1c percentages, and longer duration of DM than those without Modic changes. Symptomatic patients with DM had higher rates of Modic changes compared to symptomatic ones without DM.ConclusionsSeverity and duration of DM were both closely associated with Modic changes, whereas the association of severity and duration of DM with severe intervertebral disc degeneration remained unclear.     

Is there an interdependence between paraspinal muscle mass and lumbar disc degeneration? A MRI based study at 2520 levels in 504 patients

IntroductionLow back pain is one of the most common cause for outpatient visits. Though few studies have shown the vital role of paraspinal muscles in lumbar spine pathology, literature is scarce regarding the influence of the paraspinal muscles in disc degeneration. We aimed to analyse the correlation between paraspinal muscles and disc degeneration.MethodsThis is a Level III Prospective Cohort Study done in MRI of lumbosacral spine in 504 patients at 2520 levels from L1-2 to L5-S1. The parameters assessed were age, Pfirrmann grade for disc degeneration and paraspinal muscle (Multifidus and Erector Spinae) mass assessed by the gross cross sectional area of the muscle.The values and their correlation was analyzed using SPSS software.ResultsThe study included a total of 504 patients (231 males and 273 females) with a mean age of 52.00 ± 15.00 (22–80) years. The mean GCSA in cm² of the paraspinal muscles at L1-L2, L2-L3,L3-L4,L4-L5,L5-S1 were 16.177 ± 2.72, 17.275 ± 2.16, 16.900 ± 3.07, 16.800 ± 2.63, 13.426 ± 2.42 respectively. We found that the age of the patient is directly proportional to the disc degeneration and inversely proportional to GCSA of paraspinal muscle. There was a significant negative correlation between disc degeneration and paraspinal muscle mass.ConclusionWe found that the paraspinal muscle mass reduces and Pfirrman's Grade increases as age advances. Also patients with disc degeneration tend to have wasting of paraspinal muscles and vice versa. Hence, strengthening the paraspinal muscles should be emphasised to prevent back pain and to stall the degeneration cascade.     

Paraspinal myopathy-induced intervertebral disc degeneration and thoracolumbar kyphosis in TSC1mKO mice model—a preliminary study

BACKGROUNDIncreasing kyphosis of the spine in a human is a well-recognized clinical phenomenon that has been associated with back pain, poor physical performance and disability. The pathophysiology of age-related kyphosis is complex and has been associated with physiological changes in vertebrae, intervertebral disc (IVD) and paraspinal musculature, which current cross-sectional studies are unable to demonstrate. Creating an in vivo, paraspinal myopathic animal model for longitudinal study of these changes under controlled conditions is thus warranted.PURPOSETo confirm the TSC1 gene knockout effect on paraspinal muscle musculature; to analyze the development of spinal kyphosis, IVD degeneration and vertebra structural changes in a longitudinal manner to gain insights into the relationship between these processes.STUDY DESIGNA prospective cohort study of 28 female mice, divided into 4 groups—9-month-old TSC1mKO (n=7), 9-month-old control (n=4), 12-month-old TSC1mKO (n=8), and 12-month-old controls (n=9).METHODSHigh resolution micro-computed tomography was used to measure sagittal spinal alignment (Cobb's angle), vertebral height, vertebral body wedging, disc height index (DHI), disc wedge index (DWI), histomorphometry of trabecular bone and erector spinae muscle cross-sectional area. Paraspinal muscle specimens were harvested to assess for myopathic features with H&E stain, muscle fiber size, density of triangular fiber and central nucleus with WGA/DAPI stain, and percentage of fibers with PGC-1α stain. Intervertebral discs were evaluated for disc score using FAST stain.RESULTSCompared to controls, paraspinal muscle sections revealed features of myopathy in TSC1mKO mice similar to human sarcopenic paraspinal muscle. While there was significantly greater presence of small triangular fiber and density of central nucleus in 9-and 12-month-old TSC1mKO mice, significantly larger muscle fibers and decreased erector spinae muscle cross-sectional area were only found in 12-month-old TSC1mKO mice compared to controls. TSC1mKO mice developed accelerated thoracolumbar kyphosis, with significantly larger Cobb angles found only at 12 months old. Structural changes to the trabecular bone in terms of higher bone volume fraction and quality, as well as vertebral body wedging were observed only in 12-month-old TSC1mKO mice when compared to controls. Disc degeneration was observed as early as 9 months in TSC1mKO mice and corresponded with disc wedging. However, significant disc height loss was only observed when comparing 12-month-old TSC1mKO mice with controls.CONCLUSIONSThis study successfully shows the TSC1 gene knockout effect on the development of paraspinal muscle myopathy in a mouse which is characteristic of sarcopenia. The TSC1mKO mice is by far the best model available to study the pathological consequence of sarcopenia on mice spine. With paraspinal muscle myopathy established as early as 9 months, TSC1mKO mice developed disc degeneration and disc wedging. This is followed by kyphosis of the spine at 12 months with concomitant disc height loss and vertebral body wedging due to bone remodeling. Age-related bone loss was not found in our study, suggesting osteoporosis and myopathy-induced vertebral body wedging are likely two independent processes.CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCEThis is the first study to provide key insights on the early and late consequences of paraspinal myopathy on intervertebral disc degeneration, spinal kyphosis, and vertebral body changes. With this new understanding, future studies evaluating therapies for spinal degeneration may be performed to develop time-sensitive interventions.     

Paraspinal muscle fatty degeneration as a predictor of progressive vertebral collapse in osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures

BACKGROUND CONTEXTMost osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) are treated conservatively; however, in some patients, progressive vertebral body collapse leads to spinal deformity and cord compression. These complications are strongly associated with impaired performance activities of daily living and a poor quality of life.PURPOSETo identify the role of the paraspinal muscle as a risk factor for progressive vertebral body collapse in patients with OVCF.STUDY DESIGNThis was a retrospective observational study.PATIENT SAMPLEFifty-five consecutive patients with OVCF who were treated conservatively from January 2018 to June 2020 in a single spine center and had a minimum follow-up of 6 months.OUTCOME MEASURESA lateral plain radiograph in a neutral posture was taken when the patient was first diagnosed and at 1, 3, and 6 months after the first diagnosis. Vertebral height was measured at the point of maximal collapse of the affected vertebral body; vertebral collapse (%) was also measured. The cross-sectional area (CSA) and fatty degeneration of the paraspinal muscle were measured using the open-source software Image J. The visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were collected at the time of initial fracture diagnosis and at 1, 3, and 6 months.METHODSThe clinical and radiological data were analyzed. In the L4–5 intervertebral disc level, axial T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure the CSA and fatty degeneration of the paraspinal muscles. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were performed to analyze the risk factors associated with progressive vertebral body collapse.RESULTSThe vertebral collapse difference was strongly associated with paraspinal muscle fatty degeneration (r=0.684, p=.000) and body mass index (r=0.300, p=.026). Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that the risk factor for progression of vertebral collapse was paraspinal muscle fatty degeneration (β=0.724, p=.000). There was a statistically significant correlation between the progression in vertebral collapse and VAS score at 3 (r=0.402, p=.002) and 6 months (r=0.604, p=.000).CONCLUSIONSIn patients with OVCF, fatty degeneration of the paraspinal muscle was a predictive factor for progressive vertebral body collapse. This study suggests that more attention should be paid to patients with paraspinal sarcopenia among those with OVCFs.     

腰痛患者下腰椎MRI上Modic改变与高信号区的发生情况及意义

目的:探讨腰痛患者下腰椎MRI上Modic改变与腰椎间盘局限性高信号区(high-intensity zone,HIZ)的发生情况及意义。方法:对511例腰痛患者(男263例,女248例;年龄20~70岁,平均48岁)腰椎MRI上L4/5和L5/S1节段的Modic改变和HIZ进行评估,统计两者及两者共存于同一节段的发生率。将有Modic改变和/或HIZ的椎间盘分为Modic组、Modic-HIZ组、HIZ组,比较3组的年龄、椎间盘高度、椎间盘退变程度、腰痛VAS和ODI评分。结果:511例患者中,190例(37.18%)209个节段有Modic改变,127例(24.85%)142个椎间盘有HIZ,18例(3.52%)18个节段出现Modic改变和HIZ共存的现象。HIZ组、Modic-HIZ组和Modic组分别为89例(124个节段)、18例(18个节段)、152例(191个节段),患者平均年龄分别为46.0±11.0岁、49.2±9.2岁和53.5±10.6岁,仅HIZ组和Modic组差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);椎间盘平均高度分别为9.93±2.46mm、8.73±2.45mm和7.57±2.21mm,组间两两比较差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);3组椎间盘退变分级均≥Ⅲ级,其中Ⅳ级+Ⅴ级退变率分别为48.39%、72.22%和75.92%,仅HIZ组与Modic组、Modic-HIZ组差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);腰痛VAS分别为8.39±0.32分、8.45±0.30分、8.61±0.54分,ODI评分分别为38.22±4.23分、38.45±4.16分、39.18±3.53分,3组间无统计学差异(P>0.05)。结论:腰痛患者下腰椎Modic改变和HIZ的发生率较高,但两者共存于同一节段的发生率低,当两者共存于同一节段时腰痛并不会明显加重。     

Low back pain significantly influences locomotive syndrome in older people: Evaluation using the 3-stage categories

BackgroundThe Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) introduced the concept of locomotive syndrome (LS), which indicates a decline in mobility function by musculoskeletal disorders with new 3-staged category. Additionally, sarcopenia indicates a decline in the quantity and/or quality of skeletal muscle. However, the relationship between low back pain (LBP) and LS or sarcopenia in older people has not been sufficiently understood. This study aimed to investigate the association between them through a cross-sectional locomotorium survey.MethodsA total of 302 participants were drawn from the aquatic exercise participants in a rural area of Japan. The body mass index, body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), spinal inclination angle (SIA), grip strength, timed up-and-go test (TUG), and maximum stride of the participants were measured. LBP and LBP-related quality of life (QOL) were evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analogue scale (VAS) of LBP, and the Short-Form 8 (SF-8). Associations between the investigating parameters and sarcopenia or LS were analyzed.ResultsThere were no significant differences in the findings except grip strength between the non-sarcopenia and sarcopenia groups. However, the LS group showed significantly larger SIA, higher ODI, higher VAS of LBP, lower physical component score (PCS) of the SF-8, longer time in TUG, and lower value in maximum stride than the non-LS group. In addition, the ODI and PCS of the SF-8 significantly deteriorated as the LS stage progressed, and the GLFS-25 score was significantly correlated with ODI (r = 0.706, p < 0.001) and PCS (r = −0.643, p < 0.001) scores.ConclusionsLBP, LBP-related QOL, and physical performance were found to be significantly associated with LS, not sarcopenia, with LBP-related QOL and physical function being closely correlated with 3-stage categories of LS. Thus, these results suggested that LBP is a key factor for LS prevalence.     

Endplate defects,not the severity of spinal stenosis,contribute to low back pain in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis

BACKGROUND CONTEXTIt is controversial whether lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) itself contributes to low back pain (LBP). Lower truncal skeletal muscle mass, spinopelvic malalignment, intervertebral disc degeneration, and endplate abnormalities are thought to be related to LBP. However, whether these factors cause LBP in patients with LSS is unclear.PURPOSETo identify factors associated with LBP in patients with LSS.STUDY DESIGN/SETTINGCross-sectional design.PATIENT SAMPLEA total of 260 patients (119 men and 141 women, average age 72.8 years) with neurogenic claudication caused by LSS, as confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).OUTCOME MEASURESRatings of LBP, buttock and leg pain, and numbness on a numerical rating scale (NRS), 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) scores, muscle mass measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis, and radiographic measurements including slippage and lumbopelvic alignment. The severity of LSS, endplate defects, Modic endplate changes, intervertebral disc degeneration, and facet joint osteoarthritis were assessed on MRI.METHODSThe presence of LBP was defined as an NRS score ≥3. The demographic data, patient-reported outcomes, and radiological and MRI findings were compared between patients with and without LBP. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors that were independently associated with the presence of LBP.RESULTSThere were significant differences between patients with and without LBP for buttock and leg pain and numbness on the NRS, general health on the SF-36, presence of endplate defects, presence of Modic changes, disc degeneration grading, and disc height grading (all p < .05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed significant associations between LBP and diabetes (OR 2.43; 95% CI 1.07–5.53), buttock and leg numbness on the NRS (OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.17–1.52), general health on the SF-36 (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.95–0.99), and the presence of erosive endplate defects (OR 3.04; 95% CI 1.51–6.11) (all p < .05).CONCLUSIONSThese results suggest that LBP in patients with LSS should be carefully assessed not only for spinal stenosis but also clinical factors and endplate defects.     

基于腰椎间盘退变的脊柱稳定性改变的MRI研究进展

腰椎间盘是位于两个相邻椎体之间的圆盘状纤维软骨,是维持脊柱稳定性的重要解剖结构。目前,维持脊柱稳定性的解剖结构分为被动亚系、主动亚系和神经控制亚系,称为"三亚系模型",腰椎间盘退变(intervertebral disc degeneration,IVDD)会引起该模型其它组织的病理学改变,且彼此相互作用导致脊柱稳定性下降,是下腰痛最常见的原因。IVDD患者常伴有椎小关节及韧带的退变、邻近椎体Modic改变、椎体血流量减少、椎旁肌肉脂肪浸润增加、神经轴向牵拉损伤的代偿性减少等。磁共振成像(magnetic resonance imaging,MRI)是评估脊柱稳定性首选的影像学方法,常规MRI能完整显示IVDD患者三亚系模型相关组织形态学变化,MRI功能成像能定量分析其病理生理学变化的程度。本文综述IVDD患者腰椎间盘、椎小关节、韧带、椎体、肌肉、神经的MRI形态学及定量值变化,阐述IVDD引起脊柱稳定性改变的相关机制,旨在为下腰痛患者的精准诊疗提供更全面的信息。     

The prevalence of MRI-defined spinal pathoanatomies and their association with Modic changes in individuals seeking care for low back pain

Modic changes are of increasing interest, however their age and gender prevalence are not well described. To date, the associations between Modic changes and other common vertebral pathologies have only been described in small samples (n < 100). Our aim was, in a large dataset of people with low back pain, to (1) describe the prevalence of a range of spinal pathoanatomies, and (2) examine the association between Modic changes and stages of intervertebral disc (IVD) pathology. Common pathologies were coded from the lumbar spine MRIs from 4,233 consecutive people imaged while attending a publicly-funded secondary care outpatient facility in Denmark. Prevalence data were calculated by pathology and by vertebral level. Prevalence was also calculated by age and gender categories for Modic changes. The association between stages of IVD pathology (degeneration, bulge, herniation) and Modic changes at L4/5 and L5/S1 was expressed using prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals. The prevalence of Modic changes and IVD pathology were greater in L4/5 and L5/S1, compared with the upper lumbar spine. There was no significant gender difference in prevalence of Modic changes (p = 0.11). The prevalence of IVD disc pathology occurring concurrently with Modic changes ranged from 11.5 to 17.5% (Type 1), 8.5 to 12.7% (Type 2) and 17.1 to 25.6% (Type 1 and/or 2) while the prevalence occurring in the absence of Modic changes ranged from 0.5 to 6.3% (Type 1), 0.3 to 4.9 (Type 2), 0.8 to 9.7% (Type 1 and/or 2). The associated PR for IVD pathology occurring concurrently with Modic changes ranged from 1.8 to 29.2 (p < 0.05). The highest PR (29.2) was between degeneration and Modic changes, indicating that it is rare for Modic changes to occur without disc degeneration. Spinal pathoanatomy was common in this population, particularly IVD pathologies, and a consistent trend of a relatively greater prevalence in the lower lumbar spine was identified. Modic changes were more likely to be present among individuals with IVD pathology than without, which may implicate mechanical factors as being one aetiological pathway for Modic changes, although other hypotheses may equally explain this association.     

Long-term outcomes following intraosseous basivertebral nerve ablation for the treatment of chronic low back pain: 5-year treatment arm results from a prospective randomized double-blind sham-controlled multi-center study

Background

Damaged or degenerated vertebral endplates are a significant cause of vertebrogenic chronic low back pain (CLBP). Modic changes are one objective MRI biomarker for these patients. Prior data from the treatment arm of a sham-controlled, RCT showed maintenance of clinical improvements at 2 years following ablation of the basivertebral nerve (BVN). This study reports 5-year clinical outcomes.

Methods

In total, 117 US patients were treated successfully with BVN ablation. Patient-reported outcomes of ODI, VAS, postablation treatments, and patient satisfaction were collected at a minimum of 5-years following BVN ablation. Primary outcome was mean change in ODI. Comparisons between the postablation and baseline values were made using an analysis of covariance with alpha 0.05.

Results

Of the 117 US treated patients 100 (85%) were available for review with a mean follow-up of 6.4 years (5.4–7.8 years). Mean ODI score improved from 42.81 to 16.86 at 5-year follow-up, a reduction of 25.95 points (p < 0.001). Mean reduction in VAS pain score was 4.38 points (baseline of 6.74, p < 0.001). In total, 66% of patients reported a > 50% reduction in pain, 47% reported a > 75% reduction in pain, and 34% of patients reported complete pain resolution. Composite responder rate using thresholds of ≥ 15-point ODI and ≥ 2-point VAS for function and pain at 5 years was 75%.

Conclusion

CLBP patients treated with BVN ablation exhibit sustained clinical improvements in function and pain with high responder rates at a mean of 6.4 years following treatment. BVN ablation is a durable, minimally invasive treatment for vertebrogenic CLBP.

     

斜外侧椎间融合在Modic改变伴终板硬化腰椎间盘退变治疗中的应用CSCD

目的:探讨Stand-alone斜外侧椎间融合(oblique lateral interbody fusion,OLIF)应用于Modic改变伴终板硬化的腰椎间盘退变治疗的可行性和临床效果。方法:回顾性分析2015年1月至2018年12月3家医疗中心收治的16例Modic改变伴终板硬化的腰椎间盘退变患者。其中男6例,女10例;年龄45~67(55.48±8.07)岁;病史36~240(82.40±47.68)个月。病变部位:L2,32例,L3,45例,L4,59例;均表现为慢性腰痛,伴下肢神经症状3例。采用单纯斜外侧腰椎椎间融合术治疗,术后对临床和影像学结果,以及并发症情况进行观察。结果:术中无血管、终板损伤和椎体骨折。切口长度(4.06±0.42)cm,手术时间(45.12±5.43)min,术中出血量(33.40±7.29)ml;术后72 h切口疼痛视觉模拟评分(visual analogue scale,VAS)为1.14±0.47。所有患者无切口皮肤坏死、愈合不良或感染;出现交感链损伤1例、左大腿前外侧疼痛并麻木2例、左侧髂腰肌无力1例,均为一过性损伤,并发症发生率为25%(4/16)。16例患者均获得随访,时间12~36(20.80±5.46)个月。术后椎间隙高度获得明显的恢复,随访过程中有轻度丢失。末次随访时腰椎冠状面和矢状面平衡均获得良好的改善。融合器无明显沉降或移位,均获得椎间融合。末次随访时日本骨科协会(Japanese Orthop-aedic Association,JOA)评分和Oswestry功能障碍指数(Oswestry disability index,ODI)明显改善。结论:只要严格病例选择,充分的术前检查,采用Stand-alone OLIF治疗Modic改变伴终板硬化的腰椎间盘退变效果良好,临床优势明显,是较好的手术选择。     

High Endplate Hounsfield Units Value Indicate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Following Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery

Objective

Lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) is a common cause of low back pain and disability, and its prevalence increases with age. The aim of this study is to investigate whether endplate Hounsfield unit (HU) values have an effect on lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) after transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) surgery in patients with degenerative lumbar stenosis.

Methods

This study was a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent TLIF surgery in January 2016 to October 2019. One hundred and fifty-seven patients who underwent TLIF surgery for degenerative lumbar stenosis were enrolled in this study. Demographic data was recorded. VAS and ODI values were compared to assess the surgical outcomes in patients with or without process of LDD after TLIF surgery. Correlation analysis was performed to investigate associations between LDD and endplate HU value. Binary logistic regression analysis was carried out to study relationships between the DDD and the multiple risk factors.

Results

There was a statistically significant correlation between LDD, body mass index (BMI), age, paraspinal muscle atrophy, and total endplate scores (TEPS). Also, a strong and independent association between endplate HU value and LDD was found at every lumbar disc level (p < 0.01). After conditioning on matching factors, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that higher endplate HU (odds ratio [OR]: 1.003, p = 0.003), higher TEPS (OR: 1.264, p = 0.002), higher BMI (odds ratio [OR]: 1.202, p = 0.002), a smaller cross-sectional area (CSA) of the paraspinal muscle preoperatively (OR: 0.096, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of LDD development after TLIF surgery.

Conclusions

There is a significant association between LDD and endplate HU value after TLIF surgery in patients with degenerative lumbar stenosis. Beyond that, results from this study provide a mechanism by which high endplate HU value predisposes to LDD after TLIF surgery.     

Patterns of lumbar disc degeneration are different in degenerative disc disease and disc prolapse magnetic resonance imaging analysis of 224 patients

Background contextExisting research on lumbar disc degeneration has remained inconclusive regarding its etiology, pathogenesis, symptomatology, prevention, and management. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) and disc prolapse (DP) are common diseases affecting the lumbar discs. Although they manifest clinically differently, existing studies on disc degeneration have included patients with both these features, leading to wide variations in observations. The possible relationship or disaffect between DDD and DP is not fully evaluated.PurposeTo analyze the patterns of lumbar disc degeneration in patients with chronic back pain and DDD and those with acute DP.Study designProspective, magnetic resonance imaging–based radiological study.MethodsTwo groups of patients (aged 20–50 years) were prospectively studied. Group 1 included patients requiring a single level microdiscectomy for acute DP. Group 2 included patients with chronic low back pain and DDD. Discs were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging through Pfirmann grading, Schmorl nodes, Modic changes, and the total end-plate damage score for all the five lumbar discs.ResultsGroup 1 (DP) had 91 patients and group 2 (DDD) had 133 patients. DP and DDD patients differed significantly in the number, extent, and severity of degeneration. DDD patients had a significantly higher number of degenerated discs than DP patients (p<.000). The incidence of multilevel and pan-lumbar degeneration was also significantly higher in DDD group. The pattern of degeneration also differed in both the groups. DDD patients had predominant upper lumbar involvement, whereas DP patients had mainly lower lumbar degeneration. Modic changes were more common in DP patients, especially at the prolapsed level. Modic changes were present in 37% of prolapsed levels compared with 9.9% of normal discs (p<.00). The total end-plate damage score had a positive correlation with disc degeneration in both the groups. Further the mean total end-plate damage score at prolapsed level was also significantly higher.ConclusionThe results suggest that patients with disc prolapse, and those with back pain with DDD are clinically and radiologically different groups of patients with varying patterns, severity, and extent of disc degeneration. This is the first study in literature to compare and identify significant differences in these two commonly encountered patient groups. In patients with single-level DP, the majority of the other discs are nondegenerate, the lower lumbar spine is predominantly involved and the end-plate damage is higher. Patients with back pain and DDD have larger number of degenerate discs, early multilevel degeneration, and predominant upper lumbar degeneration. The knowledge that these two groups of patients are different clinically and radiologically is critical for our improved understanding of the disease and for future studies on disc degeneration and disc prolapse.     

Degenerate-disc infection study with contaminant control (DISC): a multicenter prospective case-control trial

BACKGROUNDA bacterial cause of disc degeneration has evoked several controversies and, if true, would lead to a major shift in treatment paradigm. Earlier studies analyzing the relationship of bacterial disc infection within a degenerative cohort featured prolonged cultures susceptible to contamination. The degenerate-disc infection study with contaminant control (DISC) trial aims to investigate this theory further by examining infection rates using a non-degenerative control cohort in comparison to a degenerative internal control cohort and a sham cohort (sampling only sterile paraspinal tissue). To our knowledge, the current study is the largest evaluating the growth of organisms (or possible contamination rate) in paraspinal tissue if prolonged cultures are performed. Protocols on methodology have been previously published.PURPOSE(1) To investigate the infection rates across cohorts (degenerative vs. nondegenerative control; paraspinal and/or disc controls vs. combined sampling cohorts) using stringent standardized aseptic surgical technique and laboratory processing. (2) To compare our findings to that of the literature and make a statement in support and/or against a possible contamination theory to positive cultures.STUDY DESIGNMulticenter, multisurgeon case-control trial.PATIENT SAMPLEIn all, 812 surgical samples were retrieved across a 3.5-year period (2013–2016) including 25 trauma controls (nondegenerative), 550 "disc and paraspinal” samples (degenerative cases with internal control), 190 disc-only samples (degenerative cases without internal control), and 46 paraspinal only controls (sham group).OUTCOME MEASURESGrowth and/or Contamination rate (%) per cohort. Chi-square of growth in disc versus paraspinal samples as a means of examining the distribution of false positive and contaminant growth. The impact of previous injections and/or surgery on positive disc or paraspinal growth. Correlation of Modic changes with positive growth rates analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis Test. The distribution of species in positive samples were also analyzed.METHODSThe DISC trial is registered under Australian and New Zealand clinical trials registry—ACTRN12616000541404. Institutional ethics review was obtained (HREC northern sector 13/218) at the primary center and further centers (n=6) were recruited. Patients undergoing spinal surgery with discectomy were eligible for trial entry with tissue specimens obtained using strict aseptic technique for microbiological examination. All specimens were handled with sterile instruments only and by a fresh instrument to a sterile pot that was closed immediately. Separate pots were used for the disc and paraspinal tissue respectively with similar stringent processing during microbiological assessment. A cohort of the degenerative cases at one single institution also underwent an additional histopathological examination.RESULTSThere was an expected significant difference in gender and age associated with the non-degenerative control group (due to trauma patients) compared with other cohorts. There was a higher percentage of positive-growth in the control group in comparison to the disc and paraspinal and disc only groups across positive disc growth (48% vs. 27% vs. 17%, p<.001). A similar infection rate was observed in the paraspinal samples across the equivalent controls (44% vs. 36% vs. 37%, p=.739). There was a significant difference in the proportions of positive growth with a large proportion of false positives (growth in both disc and paraspinal samples; p<.001). There was no difference in true positive growth between the case and control groups (16.0 vs. 7.7%, p=.112). These trends were preserved across all cohorts and when stratifying by spinal segment (cervical or lumbar). There was no correlation between Modic changes and positive disc culture growth (p=.398, n=144 samples). Cutibacterium (formerly Propionibacterium) acnes was the most dominant pathogen isolated, representing between 50% and 70% of positive disc and paraspinal specimens, followed by staphylococcal species.CONCLUSIONSOur study failed to find a difference in true infection rates between the nondegenerative and degenerative disc populations. These findings are suggestive of a contamination theory and against a common infective etiology in the setting of discogenic back and neck pain. We believe the rationale for antibiotic therapy in the management of discogenic back pain warrants further evidence to establish efficacy.     

Dynesys动态稳定系统治疗腰椎多节段退变性疾病

目的 探讨Dynesys 动态稳定系统在腰椎多节段退变性疾病治疗中的临床疗效.方法回顾性分析2009 年7月～2012年7月采用Dynesys动态固定系统治疗的多节段腰椎退变性疾病患者30例.其中男10例,女20例;年龄为30～64岁,平均49.2岁.患者中腰椎退变性侧凸L2/L3/L4/L5/S1 1例;腰椎椎管狭窄症16例,L1/L2/L3/L4/L5 1例,L2/L3/L4/L5/S1 1例,L3/L4/L5 3例,L4/L5/S111例; 椎间盘突出症13例,L4/L5 椎间盘突出合并L5/S1退变5例,L5 /S1椎间盘突出合并L4/L5退变4例,L4/L5/S1 双节段突出者4例.临床症状包括下腰痛、下肢放射痛以及间歇性跛行.所有患者均有腰痛和/或腿痛的症状,经非手术治疗＞3个月无效.术前腰椎疼痛视觉模拟量表（ visual analogue scale,VAS） 评分为6.30分（3～9分）,腿痛VAS评分6.40分（ 0～9分）,Oswestry功能障碍指数（Oswestry disability index,ODI）为62.67%.测量术后末次随访时患者腰痛、腿痛的VAS评分及ODI.结果 患者随访12～48个月,平均25个月.患者腰痛VAS评分在末次随访时较术前有明显的降低（1.77分）,腿痛VAS评分也较术前有明显的降低（1.36分）,ODI较术前也有明显的降低（12.50%）.与术前相比,差异均有统计学意义（ P＜0.05）.结论 Dynesys 动态固定系统手术操作简单、易掌握,可避免融合术相关并发症,效果满意.其长期临床疗效还需长时间临床观察.     

Extreme lateral approach to the spine in degenerative and post traumatic lumbar diseases: selection process,results and complications

Purpose of the study

The aim of this study is to describe clinical and radiological outcomes as well as accompanying complications in a series of consecutive lateral transpsoas approaches (XLIF).

Materials and methods

A retrospective study of 39 patients treated for degenerative and post-traumatic lumbar diseases was carried out. Functional status, leg and back pain and radiological outcomes were evaluated pre and post-operatively using the Oswestry disability index score (ODI) visual analog scales (VAS) and X-ray studies.

Results

Mean follow-up was 16 months (range 12–24 months). Mean improvement in back and leg pain on VAS was 6.08 (p < 0.01) and 2.77 (p < 0.01), respectively. Mean improvement in the ODI score was 38 (p < 0.01). Increases in lumbar lordosis (32.8°–39.2°, p < 0.05) and disc height (3.6–4.8 mm, p < 0.05) were noted in the post-operative. Mild, transient strength deficit of the quadriceps muscle was also noted in ten cases with complete regression.

Conclusions

XLIF proved to be a safe, effective, minimally invasive technique that allows valid arthrodesis to be carried out. Patients achieved positive clinical outcomes and satisfactory fusion rates, with sustained restoration of lordosis, spinal alignment and disc height.

     

经Wiltse入路与后正中入路治疗腰椎椎间盘突出症的疗效比较

目的比较Wiltse入路与后正中入路治疗腰椎椎间盘突出症(LDH)的疗效。方法收集2012年1月—2015年12月在本院行手术治疗的LDH患者85例,其中经Wiltse入路43例(A组),传统后正中入路42例(B组)。记录2组患者的手术时间、术中出血量、术后引流量及住院天数等资料;采用视觉模拟量表(VAS)评分评价患者腰痛和下肢痛,采用Oswestry功能障碍指数(ODI)评价患者功能状况,采用日本骨科学会(JOA)评分评价患者腰椎功能。结果 A组患者在术中出血量、术后引流量、住院天数、术后腰痛VAS评分方面优于B组,差异有统计学意义(P0.05);2组手术时间、术后下肢痛VAS评分、ODI及JOA评分差异无统计学意义(P0.05)。术后随访6个月、2年,A组腰痛VAS评分优于B组,差异有统计学意义(P0.05)。结论采用Wiltse入路治疗LDH在降低手术创伤、减少住院天数、减少术后腰痛、减少残留神经功能后遗症等方面均优于传统后正中入路,临床值得推广。     

Ageing and degenerative changes of the intervertebral disc and their impact on spinal flexibility

Purpose

Degeneration of the intervertebral disc is associated with various morphological changes of the disc itself and of the adjacent structures, such as reduction of the water content, collapse of the intervertebral space, disruption and tears, and osteophytes. These morphological changes of the disc are linked to alterations of the spine flexibility. This paper aims to review the literature about the ageing and degenerative changes of the intervertebral disc and their link with alterations in spinal biomechanics, with emphasis on flexibility.

Methods

Narrative literature review.

Results

Clinical instability of the motion segment, usually related to increased flexibility and hypothesized to be connected to early, mild disc degeneration and believed to be responsible for low back pain, was tested in numerous in vitro studies. Despite some disagreement in the findings, a trend toward spinal stiffening with the increasing degeneration was observed in most studies. Tests about tears and fissures showed inconsistent results, as well as for disc collapse and dehydration. Vertebral osteophytes were found to be effective in stabilizing the spine in bending motions.

Conclusions

The literature suggests that the degenerative changes of the intervertebral disc and surrounding structures lead to subtle alteration of the mechanical properties of the functional spinal unit. A trend toward spinal stiffening with the increasing degeneration has been observed in most studies.

     

Changes in paraspinal muscles and their association with low back pain and spinal degeneration: CT study

The objectives of the study were to evaluate the association between lumbar paraspinal muscle density, evaluated on computed tomography (CT) and age, sex and BMI; and to evaluate the association of those changes with low back pain (LBP) and spinal degeneration features in a community-based sample. This study was an ancillary project to the Framingham Study. A sample of 3,529 participants aged 40–80 years had a CT scan performed to assess aortic calcification. 187 individuals were randomly enrolled in this study. LBP in the last 12 months was evaluated using self-report questionnaire. Density (in Hounsfield units) of multifidus and erector spinae was evaluated on CT. The prevalence of intervertebral disc narrowing, facet joint osteoarthritis (FJOA), spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis and spinal stenosis were also evaluated. We used linear regression models to examine the association of paraspinal muscles density with age, sex, BMI, LBP, and spinal degeneration features. The results show that in our study, men have higher density of paraspinal muscles than women, younger individuals have higher density than older ones and individuals with lower weight have higher muscle density than overweight. No differences between individuals with and without LBP were found. Significant association was found between L4 multifidus/erector spinae density and FJOA at L4–L5; between multifidus at L4 and spondylolisthesis at L4–5; and between erector spinae at L4 and L5 with disc narrowing at L4–5 and L5–S1, respectively. We conclude that the paraspinal muscle density decreases with age, and increases BMI. It is associated with at some levels FJOA, spondylolisthesis and disc narrowing at the same level, but not associated with occurrence of LBP.     

Modic changes in the cervical spine: Prospective 20-year follow-up study in asymptomatic subjects

BackgroundFew studies have characterized the development of Modic changes in the cervical spine over time. We evaluated Modic changes of the cervical spine that developed over a 20-year period in a healthy cohort, and sought to clarify the relationship between Modic changes and the development of clinical symptoms.MethodsFor this multicenter prospective cohort study, we recruited 193 subjects from an original cohort of asymptomatic volunteers who underwent MRI of the cervical spine between 1993 and 1996. Each cervical level from C2/3 to C7/T1 (total n = 1158 intervertebral levels) was assessed on current MRIs as normal or showing type 1, 2, or 3 Modic change, and we asked about symptoms related to the cervical spine. Relationships between the presence of Modic changes and patient characteristics, pre-existing disc degenerations or clinical symptoms were evaluated by logistic regression analysis.ResultsAfter 20-year follow-up, Modic changes affected 31 subjects (16.1%) at 47 intervertebral disc levels. Of these 47 intervertebral disc levels, type 2, found at 30 levels (63.8%), was the most frequent, followed by type 1 at 15 levels (31.9%) and type 3 at two levels (4.3%). The most frequent changes were observed at the C5/6 segment with type 2 Modic changes. The presence of Modic changes correlated with pre-existing posterior disc protrusion (odds ratio 3.31, 95% confidence interval 1.21–9.05) and neck pain (odds ratio 2.71, 95% confidence interval 1.08–6.80).ConclusionsIn the cervical spine over a 20-year period, type 2 Modic changes were most frequent at the C5/6 segment. The Modic changes were associated with pre-existing disc degeneration and neck pain but not with age, BMI, smoking, shoulder stiffness, arm pain or numbness.