European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
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Various surgical techniques have been introduced for atlantoaxial (C1-C2) fusion, the most common being Magerl's (transarticular) or the Harms/Goel screw fixation. Common indications include degenerative osteoarthritis (OA), trauma or rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Only few, small studies have evaluated patient-reported outcomes after C1-C2 fusion. We investigated 2-year outcomes in a large series of consecutive patients undergoing isolated C1-C2 fusion. ⋯ In this large series with almost complete follow-up, C1-C2 fusion showed extremely good results. Despite the complexity of the intervention, outcomes surpassed those typically reported for simple procedures such as ACDF and lumbar discectomy, suggesting reservations about the procedure should perhaps be reviewed.
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Definitive fusion can be considered in early onset scoliosis (EOS) around triradiate cartilage closure. Halo-gravity traction (HGT) is an old strategy that can help lengthen and balance the spine before fusion. The postoperative changes of the trunk have never been investigated to date with modern imaging. The goal of this study was to analyze the 3D radiological outcomes, and the associated pulmonary function, of a cohort of severe EOS patients treated by definitive posterior fusion prepared by HGT. ⋯ IV.
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Paraspinal muscle imaging is of growing interest related to improved phenotyping, prognosis, and treatment of common spinal disorders. We reviewed issues related to paraspinal muscle imaging measurement that contribute to inconsistent findings between studies and impede understanding. ⋯ Study designs that consider physiological and pathophysiological responses of muscle, adjust for possible confounding factors, and use common, standardised measures are needed to advance knowledge of the determinants of variations or changes in paraspinal muscle and their influence on spinal health.
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Anterior (ALIF) and lateral (LLIF) lumbar interbody fusion is associated with significant postoperative pain, opioid consumption and length of stay. Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks improve these outcomes in other surgical subtypes but have not been applied to spine surgery. A retrospective study of 250 patients was performed to describe associations between TAP block and outcomes after ALIF/LLIF. ⋯ TAP block may represent an effective addition to pain management and opioid-reducing strategies and improve outcomes after ALIF/LLIF. Prospective trials are warranted to further explore these associations.