Analysis of Complications and Recipients' and Graft Survival in Patients 60 Years of Age and Older in the Long-Term Follow-up Period After Kidney Transplant: A Single-Center,Paired Kidney Analysis

BackgroundLong-term results of kidney transplant (KTx) in older patients may differ from younger recipients owing to increased cardiovascular comorbidities. The study aimed to analyze surgical and nonsurgical complications that develop in the long-term follow-up period after KTx, and factors that influence results of KTx in recipients aged 60 years and older (≥60) compared with younger recipients (<60).MethodsOne hundred seventy-five patients aged ≥60 years and 175 patients aged <60 years who received a kidney graft from the same deceased donor were enrolled in the study. In the long-term follow-up period (3 months to 5 years after KTx) the incidence of surgical and nonsurgical complications, as well as patient and kidney graft survival, were compared. Additionally, the influence of early complications on patients and kidney graft survival was assessed.ResultsThere were no differences between recipients aged ≥60 years compared with recipients aged <60 years in occurrence of surgical complications (graft artery stenosis: 0.6% vs 2.3%; ureter stenosis: 3.4% vs 1.1%; lymphocele: 6.9% vs 3.4%) and nonsurgical complications (urinary tract infection: 19.4% vs 23.4%; pneumonia: 8.6% vs 8.6%; cytomegalovirus infection: 6.3% vs 8%; new-onset diabetes after transplant: 16.6% vs 17.1%; cancer incidence: 5.7% vs 4.6%; acute rejection episode: 13.1% vs 17.1%). Five-year recipient survival was lower in a group of patients aged ≥60 years (death, 15.4% vs 8%; death with functioning graft, 12% vs 5.1%).ConclusionsThe incidence of surgical and nonsurgical complications, as well as kidney-graft survival, in recipients aged ≥60 years in a 5-year follow-up period is comparable to younger recipients aged <60 years.     

Quality of life of patients with high-grade spondylolisthesis: minimum 2-year follow-up after surgical and nonsurgical treatments

Background contextSurgical intervention is generally indicated in a pediatric high-grade spondylolisthesis to prevent the progression of deformity or neurologic deterioration and improve the quality of life. However, the outcome of the treatment on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients with high-grade spondylolisthesis remains largely unknown.PurposeTo describe the changes in the HRQOL of patients with pediatric high-grade spondylolisthesis after surgical and nonsurgical managements.Study designObservational case series with a minimal of 2-year follow-up.Patient sampleTwenty-eight pediatric patients with high-grade spondylolisthesis from a single institution filled the inclusion criteria. Twenty-three patients were managed surgically and five were managed nonsurgically.Outcome measuresSelf-report measures: Scoliosis Research Society questionnaires (SRS-22). Neurologic examination, radiographic evaluation of slip grade.MethodsThe SRS-22 questionnaire was collected at the baseline (initial presentation for the nonsurgical group and preoperative visit for the surgical group) and at the last follow-up. Differences between baseline and last follow-up were evaluated in both groups. Correlation between the baseline score of SRS-22 score and improvement in the SRS-22 score was determined in surgical patients.ResultsIn surgical patients, total SRS-22 scores were 3.31±0.50 at the baseline and 4.26±0.50 at the last follow-up. In nonsurgical patients, total SRS-22 scores were 4.12±0.16 at the baseline and 4.14±0.38 at the last follow-up. Therefore, variation in the SRS-22 total score was +0.94±0.77 (p<.001) for surgical patients and +0.02 ± 0.35 (p=.854) for nonsurgical patients. Improvement of the SRS-22 score was correlated with a low baseline value of SRS-22 (R²=0.61; p<.001). There was no neurologic or slip deterioration during the follow-up for patients treated nonsurgically.ConclusionsThe HRQOL improves after a surgical intervention for high-grade spondylolisthesis. Patients with lower baseline HRQOL scores are those who benefit the most from surgery. Close observation is a safe and feasible option in selected patients with a good baseline HRQOL and no neurologic impairment.     

MRI中椎管及硬膜囊大小与单节段腰椎间盘突出症治疗的相关性研究

目的:探讨MRI中椎管及硬膜囊大小对椎间盘突出症治疗方法选择的参考价值。方法:对2010年1月至2012年12月非手术和手术治疗的144例腰椎间盘突出症患者的临床资料进行回顾性分析。其中非手术组91例,男55例,女36例,年龄20～ 68岁,平均(43.37±12.48)岁;手术组53例,男28例,女25例,年龄20～ 64岁,平均(42.98±12.95)岁。采用JOA评分(29 分)对两组患者治疗前后的临床表现(包括症状、体征、日常活动受限度和膀胱功能)及效果进行量化评价。同时在腰椎MRI T2轴位测量椎管和硬膜囊大小的相关参数(包括椎管正中矢径和有效矢径、侧隐窝宽度、椎管和硬膜囊面积),并计算有效矢径/正中矢径、隐窝宽度/正中矢径和膜囊面积/椎管面积的比值。将两组患者的各参数值进行统计学比较,并分析其与治疗前JOA评分的相关性。结果:(1)144例患者随访1～3年,平均2.1年。治疗前非手术组和手术组的JOA评分分别为16.27±2.96和12.64±3.30,差异有统计学意义(t=6.319,p<0.01).末次随访非手术组与手术组比较,JOA评分(25.41±2.22 vs 25.76±2.29;t=-0.853,p=0.396>0.05),改善率[(72.95±12.54)% vs (76.80±9.45)%;t=-1.855,p=0.065>0.05]和优良率(84.91% vs 78.02%;χ₂=3.704,p=0.295>0.05)的差异均无统计学意义;但非手术组的复发率(14.29%)较手术组(5.67%)高。(2)手术组椎管正中矢径和有效矢径、侧隐窝宽度、椎管和硬膜囊面积、有效矢径/正中矢径、隐窝宽度/正中矢径均小于非手术组,硬膜囊面积/椎管面积则大于非手术组,两组比较差异均有统计学意义(p<0.01).(3)治疗前JOA评分与椎管正中矢径和有效矢径、侧隐窝宽度、椎管及硬膜囊面积有正相关性(p<0.01);与有效矢径/正中矢径、侧隐窝宽度/正中矢径也有正相关性(p<0.05);而与硬膜囊面积/椎管面积有负相关性(p<0.01).结论:非手术和手术治疗腰椎间盘突出症均能获得良好的效果,但非手术治疗复发率较高。术前测量椎管及硬膜囊的MRI参数对椎间盘突出症治疗方法的选择有一定的临床参考价值,但需要进一步完善和临床验证。     

Analysis of the pulmonary function in patients undergoing vertebral body tethering for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Purpose

The literature concerning the effects of scoliosis correction on pulmonary function (PF) is scarce and solely related to spinal fusion. Vertebral body tethering (VBT) represents a new option for scoliosis correction; however, its effects on PF have not yet been investigated. As VBT is a fusion-less technique that does not limit the dynamics of the chest wall, it is expected not to have a negative impact on PF despite the anterior surgical approach.

Methods

We analyzed the PF preoperatively and compared it with the PF at 6-weeks, 6-months and 12-monthts postoperatively. Considered parameters were total lung capacity (TLC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) expressed as percentages. A change of more than 10% was considered clinically significant.

Results

Before VBT, overall TLC, FEV1 and FVC measured 98 ± 15%, 85 ± 16% and 91 ± 17%, respectively. Six weeks after surgery, all parameters were comparable to the preoperative values (TLC 96 ± 17%, FEV1 84 ± 14%, FVC 90 ± 16%) and remained so at the last follow-up (TLC 99 ± 15%, FEV1 89 ± 9%, FVC 86 ± 9). While a reduction in FEV1 and FVC was observed at 6-weeks and 6-months in patients with thoracic or double curves compared to thoracolumbar curves, no significant differences were observed at the 12-months follow-up.

Conclusions

VBT does not cause a reduction in PF values at a short-term follow-up.

     

The natural course of pain in patients with symptomatic tarsal coalitions: A retrospective clinical study

BackgroundThis study aims to examine changes in pain intensity in the long course of symptomatic tarsal coalition.MethodsThirty consecutive patients who were treated for symptomatic tarsal coalition was retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: the nonsurgical group (14 patients) and the surgical group (16 patients). To assess pain intensity, the visual analogous scale (VAS) was utilized.ResultsOn admission, the mean VAS was 4,9 ± 1,9 in the nonsurgical group and 7,7 ± 1,3 in the surgical group (p < 0,05). After 6 months of nonoperative treatment, the mean VAS was decreased from 4,9 ± 1,9 to 2,8 ± 1,0 in the nonsurgical group (p < 0,05) and from 7,7 ± 1,3 to 7,1 ± 0,8 in the surgical group (p > 0,05). At the final follow-up, the mean VAS was 2,3 ± 2,4 in the nonsurgical group and 3,1 ± 2,7 in the surgical group (p > 0,05). The decrease in the VAS after surgery was significant in the surgical group (p < 0,01).ConclusionFor patients with symptomatic tarsal coalitions who present with an initial VAS score of 6 and above, early surgery may be more effective than nonoperative treatment in relieving pain intensity.     

Degenerative lumbar scoliosis in elderly patients: dynamic stabilization without fusion versus posterior instrumented fusion

Background contextPosterolateral fusion with pedicle screw instrumentation is currently the most widely accepted technique for degenerative lumbar scoliosis in elderly patients. However, a high incidence of complications has been reported in most series. Dynamic stabilization without fusion in patients older than 60 years has not previously been compared with the use of posterior fusion in degenerative lumbar scoliosis.PurposeTo compare dynamic stabilization without fusion and posterior instrumented fusion in the treatment of degenerative lumbar scoliosis in elderly patients, in terms of perioperative findings, clinical outcomes, and adverse events.Study designA retrospective study.Patient sampleFifty-seven elderly patients were included. There were 45 women (78%) and 12 men (22%) with a mean age of 68.1 years (range, 61–78 years). All patients had degenerative de novo lumbar scoliosis, associated with vertebral canal stenosis in 51 cases (89.4%) and degenerative spondylolisthesis in 24 patients (42.1%).Outcome measuresClinical (Oswestry Disability Index, visual analog scale, Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire) and radiological (scoliosis and lordosis corrections) outcomes as well as incidence of complications.MethodsPatients were divided into two groups: 32 patients (dynamic group) had dynamic stabilization without fusion and 25 patients (fusion group) underwent posterior instrumented fusion. All the patients' medical records and X-rays were reviewed. Preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up questionnaires were obtained to evaluate clinical outcomes.ResultsAt an average follow-up of 64 months (range, 42–90 months), clinical results improved similarly in both groups of patients. Statistically superior scoliosis and final lordosis corrections were achieved with posterior fusion (56.9% vs. 37.3% and ?46.8° vs. ?35.8°, respectively). However, in the dynamic group, incidence of overall complications was lower (25% vs. 44%), and fewer patients required revision surgery (6.2% vs. 16%). Furthermore, lower average values of operative duration (190 vs. 240 minutes) and blood loss (950 vs. 1,400 cc) were observed in the dynamic group than in the fusion group.ConclusionsIn elderly patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis, pedicle screw–based dynamic stabilization was less invasive with shorter operative duration, less blood loss, and lower adverse event rates than instrumented posterior fusion. Scoliosis curve reduction and lumbar lordosis were superior after fusion; however, dynamic stabilization achieved satisfying values of both these parameters, and these results were stable after an average follow-up of more than 5 years. Furthermore, there was no difference between the two techniques in terms of functional clinical outcomes at the last follow-up.     

Adult thoracolumbar and lumbar scoliosis treated with long vertebral fusion to the sacropelvis: a comparison between new hybrid selective spinal fusion versus anterior-posterior spinal instrumentation

Background contextCombined anteroposterior spinal fusion with instrumentation has been used for many years to treat adult thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis. This surgery remains a technical challenge to spine surgeons, and current literature reports high complication rates.PurposeThe purpose of this study is to validate a new hybrid technique (a combination of single-rod anterior instrumentation and a shorter posterior instrumentation to the sacrum) to treat adult thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis.Study designThis study is a retrospective consecutive case series of surgically treated patients with adult lumbar or thoracolumbar scoliosis.Patient sampleThis is a retrospective study of 33 matched pairs of patients with adult scoliosis who underwent two different surgical procedures: a new hybrid technique versus a third-generation anteroposterior spinal fusion.Outcome measuresPreoperative and postoperative outcome measures include self-report measures, physiological measures, and functional measures.MethodsIn a retrospective case-control study, 33 patients treated with the hybrid technique were matched with 33 patients treated with traditional anteroposterior fusion based on preoperative radiographic parameters. Mean follow-up in the hybrid group was 5.3 years (range, 2–11 years), compared with 4.6 years (range, 2–10 years) in the control group. Operating room (OR) time, estimated blood loss, and levels fused were collected as surrogates for surgical morbidity. Radiographic parameters were collected preoperatively, postoperatively, and at final follow-up. The Scoliosis Research Society Patient Questionnaire (SRS-22r) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were collected for clinical outcomes.ResultsOperating room time, EBL, and levels fused were significantly less in the hybrid group compared with the control group (p<.0001). The postoperative thoracic Cobb angle was similar between the hybrid and control techniques (p=.24); however, the hybrid technique showed significant improvement in the thoracolumbar/lumbar curves (p=.004) and the lumbosacral fractional curve (p<.0001). The major complication rate was less in the hybrid group compared with the control group (18% vs. 39%, p=.01). Clinical outcomes at final follow-up were not significantly different based on overall SRS-22r scores and ODI scores.ConclusionThe new hybrid technique demonstrates good long-term results, with less morbidity and fewer complications than traditional anteroposterior surgery select patients with thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis. This study received no funding. No potential conflict of interest-associated bias existed.     

Scoliosis in arthrogryposis multiplex congenita: results after nonsurgical and surgical treatment

Forty-six patients (25 male and 21 female) with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita who were seen at the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children between the years 1940 and 1997 were evaluated to assess the prevalence and patterns of scoliosis and the long-term results after both nonsurgical and surgical treatment methods. We found the prevalence of scoliosis to be 65.9% (32 of 46 patients). A single thoracolumbar curve was the predominant curve pattern. No congenital curve types or vertebral anomalies were seen in our group of patients. In the nonsurgical group, the mean curve was <30 degrees at follow-up. In the surgical group, the mean primary curve before spinal arthrodesis was 78.5 degrees. Three patients in the surgical group who were nonambulators have become household ambulators at the most recent follow-up. We recommend bracing in patients who are ambulators and have a curve of <30 degrees. Combined anterior and posterior spinal arthrodesis gave the best results.     

Surgical management of severe scoliosis with high-risk pulmonary dysfunction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Between 2005 and 2007, 14 patients who had severe scoliosis in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and a poor forced vital capacity (FVC) of <30% at admission underwent scoliosis surgery. FVC on admission was 21.6% (range, 16–27%). The patients were given respiratory muscle training using a pulmonary trainer (Threshold IMT, Philips Respironics, Inc.) for six weeks before operation. FVC increased to 26.2% (range, 22–31%) the day before operation. The mean preoperative scoliosis was 98° (range, 81°–130°). All patients underwent posterior fusion and all-screw construction and were extubated on the operative day. No patients developed any respiratory complications. The postoperative scoliosis was 34° (range, 20°–40°) (65%). FVC remained stable at six weeks after operation. FVC decreased to 19.8% (range, 16–25%) and the mean scoliosis was 35° (range, 23°–40°)(64%) at two years after operation. DMD patients with severe scoliosis and FVC considered too low to permit reasonable surgical risk could undergo surgery and could benefit from surgery.     

Sexual behaviors,risks, and sexual health outcomes for adolescent females following bariatric surgery

BackgroundAdolescents females with severe obesity are less likely to be sexually active, but those who are sexually active engage in risky sexual behaviors.ObjectivesTo examine patterns and predictors of sexual risk behaviors, contraception practices, and sexual health outcomes in female adolescents with severe obesity who did or did not undergo bariatric surgery across 4 years.SettingFive academic medical centers.MethodsUsing a prospective observational controlled design, female adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery (n = 111; M_age = 16.95 ± 1.44 yr; body mass index: M_BMI = 50.99 ± 8.42; 63.1% white) and nonsurgical comparators (n = 68; M_age = 16.18 ± 1.36 yr; M_BMI = 46.47 ± 5.83; 55.9% white) completed the Sexual Activities and Attitudes Questionnaire at presurgery/baseline and 24- and 48-month follow-up, with 83 surgical females (M_BMI = 39.27 ± 10.08) and 49 nonsurgical females (M_BMI = 48.56 ± 9.84) participating at 48 months.ResultsMost experienced sexual debut during the 4-year study period, with a greater increase in behaviors conferring risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for surgical females (P = .03). Half (50% surgical, 44.2% nonsurgical, P = .48) reported partner condom use at last sexual intercourse. The proportion of participants who had ever contracted an STI was similar (18.7% surgical, 14.3% nonsurgical). Surgical patients were more likely to report a pregnancy (25.3% surgical, 8.2% nonsurgical, P = .02) and live birth (16 births in 15 surgical, 1 nonsurgical), with 50% of offspring in the surgical cohort born to teen mothers (age ≤19 yr).ConclusionsBariatric care guidelines and practices for adolescent females must emphasize the risks and consequences of teen or unintended pregnancies, sexual decision-making, dual protection, and STI prevention strategies to optimize health and well-being for the long term.     

Approach to Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneus Fractures After Attempted Suicide Among Patients With Psychiatric Disorders: Nonsurgical or Surgical?

Displaced intra-articular calcaneus fracture is one of the injurious events in psychiatric patients after high-jump suicide attempts. These patients are reported to have poorer compliance and worse postoperative outcomes compared to those with no psychiatric condition.  We aimed to compare nonsurgical and surgical treatment with respect to functional and radiological outcomes and complications in this patient. We evaluated medical records of 42 psychiatric patients who had displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures after high-jump suicide attempt. 20 (54%) of these were treated nonsurgically and further 17 patients (46%) received surgical intervention. We compared to nonsurgical and surgical approaches statistically. The mean follow-up period were 30.4 ± 8.02 months and 31.8 ± 7.5 months in the nonsurgical and surgical groups, respectively. Böhler's angle was significantly higher in the surgical group (30.4 ± 6.4) than that in the nonsurgical group (16.1 ± 3.7) (p = .001). AOFAS scores and supination levels were significantly higher in the surgical group than that in the nonsurgical group (p ≤ .05). During the follow-up period, one patient from the surgical group re-attempted high-jump suicide and died, and another one caused the subtalar joint to re-collapse after full weightbearing on the first postoperative day. Surgical treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures following a high-jump suicide attempt in psychiatric patients may not cause increased complication rates. However, behavioral manifestations of the psychiatric disorder might be associated with several complications. Should any surgical intervention be decided, minimal invasive approach would be the appropriate choice.     

Survivorship analysis after primary fusion for adult scoliosis. Prognostic factors for reoperation

Background contextAdult scoliosis surgery is a challenging procedure with high rate of complications and reoperations. Reoperation rates vary widely. Long-term survival for this surgery still remains unknown, and the prognostic factors for reoperation are not well defined.PurposeTo assess adult scoliosis surgery survival (without the need of reoperation) after primary fusion in adults with mainly frontal deformity and to define prognostic factors for reoperation.Study designSurvival analysis of a cohort of consecutive adult patients, primarily operated on scoliosis using segmental instrumentation (retrospective cohort study).Patient sampleFifty-nine patients older than 21 years at primary surgery (median age, 42 years), who presented idiopathic or degenerative curves with frontal Cobb >40° (median preoperative frontal Cobb 59°), more than four-level fusion, and a 2-year minimum postoperative follow-up (median, 8.5 years; 41% patients had a longer than 10-year follow-up).Outcome measuresClinical and preoperative radiographic parameters were analyzed preoperatively and evaluated as prognostic factors for reoperation.MethodsSurvival was estimated using Kaplan-Meier method. Prognostic factors (clinical and radiographic) for reoperation were evaluated. Logistic regression using backward elimination was used for multivariate analysis.ResultsSurvival was 89.8% at 1 year, 79.4% at 2 years, 73.4% at 3 years, 64% at 5 years, and 60.9% at 10 years. Overall, 21 patients (35.6%) underwent revision surgery. The most common reasons for reoperation were painful/prominent implants, adjacent-segment degeneration, and infection. American Society of Anesthesiologists Type II patients and double surgical approach were associated with a higher revision rate. Preoperative thoracic kyphosis was significantly higher in reoperated patients.ConclusionsThe 10-year survival rate of primary scoliosis surgery in adult patients is 61%. Risk factors identified for reoperation included patients with higher morbidity, double surgical approach, and preoperative thoracic hyperkyphosis.     

High Midterm Survival Rate of Uncemented Total Knee Arthroplasty After High Tibial Osteotomy: A Case-Control Study

BackgroundTotal knee arthroplasty (TKA) following high tibial osteotomy (HTO) is technically more demanding than TKA in a native knee. Studies have reported increased intraoperative and postoperative complication of TKA with previous HTO. The aim of this study is to compare the survival and complication rates and functional outcomes of uncemented TKA with previous HTO to primary TKA at our institution over a decade.MethodsThis case-control study included 41 uncemented TKA after HTO between 2002 and 2012. For each case, 2 control patients were matched based on age and gender without previous HTO. The 2 groups were comparable for body mass index, as well as preoperative functional scores.ResultsThe mean follow-up was 7.8 ± 2.4 (range, 5-13.6) years. At last follow-up, there was no significant difference in functional outcomes or radiological imaging, particularly the rate of radiological loosening. There was no significant difference in complications (9; 22%) in the group of TKA after HTO vs the control group (14; 17%). One revision was performed in the group of TKA after HTO for septic loosening, and no revisions in the control group. The survival rate at a mean follow-up of 8 years was 97.6% in the group TKA after HTO vs 100% in the control group.ConclusionUncemented TKAs following HTO have no significant difference in functional and radiological outcomes and survivorship compared to uncemented primary TKA at midterm follow-up.     

Differences in treatments and outcomes for idiopathic scoliosis patients treated in the United States from 1998 to 2007: impact of socioeconomic variables and ethnicity

Background contextScoliosis is a significant cause of disability and health-care resource utilization in the United States.PurposeOur aim was to evaluate potential disparities in the selection of treatments and outcomes for idiopathic scoliosis patients on a national level. To date, only one study has examined inpatient complications, discharge disposition, and mortality with respect to scoliosis treatment on a national scale.Study design/settingRetrospective review of cases having a primary diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis using the nationwide inpatient sample (NIS) administrative data from 1998 to 2007.Patient sampleThe NIS data were queried to identify patients with a primary diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision [ICD-9] diagnosis code: 737.30) admitted routinely. Surgically treated patients were identified as those patients who underwent a spinal fusion (ICD-9-Clinical Modification code: 81.08) as a principal procedure.Outcome measuresRates of surgical versus nonsurgical treatments were measured as were inhospital complications and mortality rates.MethodsNo external funding was received for this work. Univariate and multivariate analyses evaluated race, sex, socioeconomic factors, and hospital characteristics as predictors of surgical versus nonsurgical treatments, as well as inhospital complications and mortality rates.ResultsThe study analyzed 9,077 surgically and 1,098 nonsurgically treated patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Univariate analysis showed both patient- and hospital-level variables as strongly associated with surgical versus nonsurgical treatments and outcomes. Multivariate analysis revealed that Caucasians and private insurance patients were more likely to undergo surgical treatment (p<.05) even when controlling for comorbidities. Additionally, Caucasians had a reduced risk of nonroutine discharge compared with non-Caucasians (p=.03). Large hospitals had higher surgery rates (p=.08) than small- or medium-sized facilities and a lower risk of mortality (p=.04). Caucasians (65.1%) were more commonly admitted to large teaching hospitals than African American (59.8%) or Hispanic (41.8%) patients.ConclusionsDifferences were found in the selection of surgical versus nonsurgical treatments, as well as inhospital morbidity for hospitalized idiopathic scoliosis patients based on ethnic and socioeconomic variables. This may in part be because of differences in access to the resources of large teaching hospitals for different ethnic and socioeconomic groups or variability in severity of scoliosis among these groups that was not captured in this database.     

退变性脊柱侧凸的选择性手术治疗

目的评价选择性手术治疗退变性脊柱侧凸的临床疗效。方法2005年1月～2009年9月共手术治疗22例患者。记录所有患者术前、术后3个月及末次随访时的Oswestry功能评分;记录实施内固定治疗患者术前、术后3个月及末次随访时的侧凸Cobb角、腰椎前凸角以及融合时间。结果平均随访19个月（8—36个月）。椎管减压3例;椎管减压并内固定植骨融合术19例,其中长节段固定6例。Oswestry功能评分术前为39．25±10．47,术后3个月为13．85±7．73,末次随访时为17．95±6．18。实施内固定的患者侧凸Cobb角术前为21．05°±8．51°,术后3个月为12．13°±4．83°,末次随访时为14．03°±5．25°;腰椎前凸角术前为14．40°±14．72°,术后3个月为26．62°±11．48°,末次随访时为24．27°±11．03°;术后6个月,均达到骨性融合。上述各组术后3个月及末次随访的数据与术前比较差异均有统计学意义（P〈0．05）。结论退变性脊柱侧凸的治疗主要以缓解症状为目的,依据不同的临床及影像学表现制定个体化治定方案能够取得满意的临床疗效。     

How to select the lowest instrumented vertebra in NF-1 non-dystrophic scoliosis

Purpose

To investigate lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) selection strategy for neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) non-dystrophic scoliosis.

Methods

Consecutive eligible subjects with NF-1 non-dystrophic scoliosis were included. All patients were followed up at least for 24 months. Enrolled patients with LIV in stable vertebra were divided into stable vertebra group (SV group), and the other patients with LIV above the stable vertebra were divided into above stable vertebra group (ASV group). Demographic data, operative data, preoperative and postoperative radiographic data, and clinical outcome were collected and analyzed.

Results

There were 14 patients in SV group (ten males and four females, mean age 13.9 ± 4.1 years) and 14 patients in ASV group (nine males and five females, mean age 12.9 ± 3.5 years). The mean follow-up period was 31.7 ± 17.4 months for patients in SV group and 33.6 ± 17.4 months for patients in ASV group, respectively. No significant differences were found in demographic data between two groups. The coronal Cobb angle, C7-CSVL, AVT, LIVDA, LIV tilt and SRS-22 questionnaire outcome significantly improved at the final follow-up in both groups. However, significantly higher loss of correction rate and increasement of LIVDA were found in ASV group. Two patients (14.3%) in ASV group but none in SV group suffered adding-on phenomenon.

Conclusions

Although patients in both SV and ASV groups obtained improved therapeutic efficacy at final follow-up, the radiographic and clinical outcome seemed more likely to deteriorate in ASV group after surgery. The stable vertebra should be recommended as LIV for NF-1 non-dystrophic scoliosis.

     

Preoperative inspiratory muscle training for patients with severe scoliosis and high-risk pulmonary dysfunction in duchenne muscular dystrophy

Severe spinal collapse and pulmonary function deterioration are so common in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The limit for scoliosis surgery has been a minimum forced vital capacity (FVC) of about 30% of predicted value. DMD patients with low %FVC who might benefit from scoliosis surgery have not been being offered surgery. Between 2005 and 2007, a total of 17 DMD patients with FVC of <30% at admission underwent scoliosis surgery. %FVC at admission was 22% (range 16–27%). After admission, they were trained with inspiratory muscle training, using a pulmonary trainer (threshold IMT) for 6 weeks prior to surgery and encouraged to continue the training even after surgery and discharge. %FVC increased in all patients and noted 26% (range 22–31%) the day before surgery. The preoperative scoliosis was 97° (range 81°–130°). All patients had posterior spinal fusion and were extubated on the operative day. No patients developed any respiratory complications. No ventilatory support was needed. The mean ICU stay was 0.5 days (range 0–1 day). The postoperative scoliosis was 31° (range 18°–40°). DMD patients with severe scoliosis and FVC considered too low to permit reasonable surgical risk could undergo surgery after inspiratory muscle training, with no major complications.     

Eighteen-Year Follow-Up Study of 2 Alternative Bearing Surfaces Used in Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Same Young Patients

BackgroundThis study compares the long-term functional, radiographic, and computed tomography scan outcomes and implant survivorship of ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty (C-O-C THA) and ceramic-on-highly cross-linked polyethylene total hip arthroplasty (C-O-HXLPE THA) in the same patients.MethodsIn this randomized, prospective trial conducted between January 1999 and April 2003, 133 patients (266 hips) younger than 55 years were enrolled. Each patient received C-O-C THA in 1 hip and a C-O-HXLPE THA in the other. The mean follow-up was 17.1 years (range, 15-18 years); there were 84 men and 49 women with a mean age of 53 ± 7 years (range, 25-55 years).ResultsAt the latest follow-up, mean Harris hip scores (94 vs 93 points; P = .861), pain scores (43 vs 42 points; P = .651), and patient satisfaction scores (7.8 vs 7.6 points; P = .379) were not different between the 2 groups. Eight hips (3%) in the C-O-C THA had an audible squeaking sound. The mean annual penetration rate of HXLPE was 0.0162 ± 0.032 mm per year. No osteolysis was recorded on radiographs or computed tomography scans in either group. At 17.1 years, the survival rate of the acetabular component was 97% in the C-O-C bearing group and 98% in the C-O-HXLPE bearing group (P = .923). The survival rate of the femoral component was 99% in both groups.ConclusionBoth C-O-C THA and C-O-HXLPE THA functioned well, with no osteolysis at mean of 17.1-year follow-up.     

Thoracogenic scoliosis: coronal deformity progression in paediatric patients

Purpose

To assess the risk of developing thoracogenic scoliosis (THS) in paediatric patients, depending on the side of lateral thoracotomy (LT) and of spine deviation in the coronal plane by means of logistic regression and scoliosis-free survival analyses.

Methods

A total of 307 consecutive patients undergoing LT were retrospectively reviewed; 32 patients met the inclusion criteria: 1) underwent LT and developed THS; 2) age < 15 years at LT; 3) clinical and radiographic follow-up ≥ 5 years. Patients were divided into ipsilateral group (convexity ipsilateral to LT) and contralateral group (convexity contralateral to LT).

Results

The mean follow-up was 10 ± 4.7 in the ipsilateral group (n = 13) and 12 ± 4.8 years in the contralateral group (n = 19). The contralateral group underwent LT at a younger age (4.4 vs 6.4 years, p = 0.55), developed more severe coronal deformity (27.8° vs 18.9°, p = 0.15), had higher rate of THS > 20° (47.5% vs 38.4%; p = 0.34) and > 45° (21.1% vs 0%; p = 0.99). The mean time from LT to THS diagnosis was 4.2 ± 2.9 in ipsilateral group and 5.5 ± 4.2 years in contralateral group. Left-side LT (p = 0.03) and age > 5 years (p = 0.01) showed a lower risk of THS diagnosis. The group variable had a statistically significant effect on the risk of developing THS > 45° (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

In this series, children that developed THS with a convexity contralateral to the side of LT had more severe and progressive coronal spine deformity.

Level of evidence:

III