bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chondrosarcoma of the spine: 1954 to 1997
Authors: York Julie E. , Berk Rasim H. , Fuller Gregory N. , Rao Jasti S. , Abi-Said Dima , Wildrick David M. , Gokaslan Ziya L.
Published: May 2009

Object. Primary chondrosarcoma of the spine is extremely rare. During the last 43 years only 21 patients with this disease were registered at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. The purpose of this study was to examine the demographic characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of this set of patients.

Methods. Medical records for 21 patients were reviewed. Age, sex, race, clinical presentation, tumor histology, tumor location in the spinal column, treatments, surgical details, and response to treatment were recorded. Surgical procedures were categorized as either gross-total resection or subtotal excision of tumor. Neurological function was assessed using Frankel's functional classification. Time to recurrence and survival analyses were performed using the Kaplan—Meier method. The median age of patients was 51 years, with fairly equal gender representation. Eighteen patients underwent at least one surgical procedure for a total of 28 surgical procedures: seven radical resections and 21 subtotal excisions. Radiation therapy was used in conjunction with 10 of the 28 surgical procedures. The median Kaplan—Meier estimate of overall survival for the entire group was 6 years (range 6 months–17 years). Tumors recurred after 18 of the 28 procedures. Kaplan—Meier analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in the per-procedure disease-free interval after gross-total resection relative to subtotal excision (exact log rank 3.39; p = 0.04). The addition of radiation therapy prolonged the median disease-free interval from 16 to 44 months, although this was not statistically significant (exact log rank 2.63; p = 0.16).

Conclusions. Our results suggest that gross-total resection of the chondrosarcoma provides the best chance for prolonging the disease-free interval in patients. Subtotal excision should be avoided whenever possible. Addition of radiation therapy does not appear to lengthen significantly the disease-free interval in this patient population.
Electrical spinal cord stimulation in reflex sympathetic dystrophy: retrospective analysis of 23 patients
Authors: Kemler Marius A. , Barendse Gerard A. M. , Van Kleef Maarten , Van Den Wildenberg Frans A. J. M. , Weber Wilhelm E. J.
Published: May 2009

Object. The aim of the study was to assess retrospectively the clinical efficacy and possible adverse effects of electrical spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for the treatment of patients with reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD).

Methods. Twenty-three patients who suffered severe pain due to RSD were included in the study. The SCS system was implanted only after a positive 1-week test period. The visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain (1–10) was obtained in all patients prior to treatment, 1 month postimplantation, and at last follow up. At final follow-up examination, patients were asked to rate the effect of their treatment on the 7-point global perceived effect scale. Eighteen (78%) of 23 patients treated between 1991 and 1997 reported improvement during the test period. Permanent implantation of SCS system was not performed in the other five patients. Complications occurred in nine (50%) of 18 patients. The system was removed in three patients after implantation (17%). At the end of follow up (mean 32 months) 15 patients still had an implanted system. The mean pain score had decreased from 7.9 to 5.4 (p < 0.001). In the other eight patients the pain score had not changed significantly. In 13 patients (57%) in whom the SCS system was implanted, clinical status had much improved or improved; these cases were regarded as successful.

Conclusions. In this retrospective series, the majority of patients with RSD reported a subjective improvement after implantation of an SCS system.
Adenoviral nerve growth factor and β-galactosidase transfer to spinal cord: a behavioral and histological analysis
Authors: Boulis Nicholas M. , Bhatia Vikas , Brindle Theodore I. , Holman Harland T. , Krauss Daniel J. , Blaivas Mila , Hoff Julian T.
Published: May 2009

Object. The present study characterizes the time course and loci of gene expression induced by the administration of adenoviral vectors into spinal cord. Although a marked inflammatory response to these vectors occurred, no effect on spinal cord function was seen in the 1st postoperative week. The expression of transgenic genes delivered by viral vectors is being exploited throughout the nervous system. The present study utilized adenoviral vectors containing the Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) promoter and a nuclear localization signal to achieve transgenic expression in mammalian spinal cord.

Methods. Initial experiments utilizing the vector Ad.RSVlacZ (1012 particles/ml) injected into the region of the central canal resulted in viral gene expression stretching over approximately 1.2 cm of spinal cord. Gene expression was first detected 3 days following viral administration and lasted until postinjection Day 14 with peak expression at Day 7. A variety of cell types in both white and gray matter expressed lacZ. Transgenic expression of the neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF) was achieved using injections of Ad.RSVNGF. On histological examination mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate and gliosis were revealed surrounding the injection sites of spinal cords receiving adenovirus but not vehicle. To assess spinal cord function during viral gene expression, animals previously trained in an operant runway task were tested at 7 days postinjection (the peak of viral gene expression) and demonstrated no changes in spinal cord function.

Conclusions. Results of this study using adenoviral neurotrophic gene transfer indicate that it provided an effective tool for the delivery of potentially therapeutic proteins to the injured or diseased spinal cord.
Development of postoperative fibromatosis after resection of an intraspinal meningioma
Authors: Lynch James J. , Parvizi Javad , Scheithauer Bernd W. , Krauss William E.
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors report the case of an adult female patient who developed a paraspinous thoracic fibromatosis (desmoid tumor) after undergoing resection of an intraspinal thoracic meningioma that was complicated by postoperative wound infection. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of such a tumor occurring after resection of a spinal meningioma. Awareness of the development of postoperative fibromatosis and recognition of its association with wound sepsis is important. Although rare, this distinctive lesion should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the apparent rapid regrowth of otherwise indolent lesions including meningioma.
Intramedullary tuberculoma of the spinal cord
Authors: Ratliff John K. , Connolly Edward S.
Published: May 2009

✓ Intramedullary spinal tuberculosis infection remains an extremely rare disease entity. In the most recent reviews only 148 cases have been reported in the world literature, although numerous recent reports from developing countries and on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)—positive patients have increased this number. The authors present an unusual case of intramedullary tuberculoma in an HIV—negative patient from the southern United States who demonstrated no other signs or symptoms of tuberculosis infection. The authors believe that this is the first case of its kind to be presented in recent literature. The presentation of miliary disease via an isolated intramedullary spinal mass in a patient with no evident risk factors for tuberculosis infection emphasizes the importance of including tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of spinal cord masses.
Renal cell carcinoma: a rare source of cauda equina metastasis
Authors: Maxwell Marius , Borges Lawrence F. , Zervas Nicholas T.
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors present the case of a patient in whom intradural metastasis from renal cell carcinoma spread to the cauda equina. To the authors' knowledge, this is only the second report of its kind. This male patient had undergone nephrectomy for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma for 5 years and was diagnosed as having metastatic lung disease 1 year prior to admission. The patient presented with lower back pain that radiated to both legs, but he exhibited no sensorimotor deficits. The majority of cauda equina tumors are primary tumors, and metastases are very rare. The literature is reviewed with reference to current molecular genetic paradigms of metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Cervical cord compression caused by a pillow in a postlaminectomy patient undergoing magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Suzuki Fumio , Nakajima Masayuki , Matsuda Masayuki
Published: May 2009

✓ A 66-year-old man, who had undergone osteoplastic laminectomy for posttraumatic cervical myelopathy, underwent a second operation in which the replaced laminae were removed because of postoperative deep wound infection. Follow-up dynamic magnetic resonance imaging with flexion and extension views of the neck 1 year postsurgery demonstrated that the cervical cord was markedly compressed from behind in the extended position, although a wide subarachnoid space was observed in this region when the neck was in the flexed position. The cause of cord compression was the pillow that was placed underneath the patient's neck for maintaining the extended position, not the neck extension itself. This finding indicates that care must be taken during neuroradiological examination not to place a pillow under the neck of a patient who has undergone laminectomy. Nuchal compression could lead to cervical cord injury after laminectomy. Laminoplasty benefits the patient by protecting the cervical cord from secondary injury.
Vascular pedicle rib graft in anterior transthoracic fusion procedures
Authors: Deen H. Gordon , Zimmerman Richard S. , Lanza Louis A.
Published: May 2009

✓ A method is described in which anterior fusion of the thoracic vertebral column is performed using a rib strut graft maintained on its vascular pedicle. This straightforward technique is useful in selected patients undergoing anterior thoracic fusion procedures and can be used in conjunction with other anterior spinal implants. By maintaining bone graft blood supply, this technique promotes an optimum fusion environment, which may enhance the speed of graft incorporation and the ultimate strength of the construct.
Modified open-door laminoplasty for treatment of neurological deficits in younger patients with congenital spinal stenosis: analysis of clinical and radiographic data
Authors: Shaffrey Christopher I. , Wiggins Gregory C. , Piccirilli Cynthia B. , Young Jacob N. , Lovell LaVerne R.
Published: May 2009

Object. Multilevel anterior cervical decompressive surgery and fusion effectively treats cervical myeloradiculopathy that is caused by severe cervical spinal stenosis, but degenerative changes at adjacent vertebral levels frequently result in long-term morbidity.

The authors performed a modified open-door laminoplasty procedure in which allograft bone and titanium miniplates were used to treat cervical myeloradiculopathy in younger patients with congenital canal stenosis while maintaining functional cervical motion segments. Pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging and/or computerized tomography myelography were performed to assess changes in cervical spinal canal dimensions. Pre- and postoperative flexion—extension radiographs were compared to determine the residual motion of the targeted operative segments.

Methods. Twenty younger patients (average age 37.7 years) underwent modified open-door laminoplasty for treatment of myelopathy or myeloradiculopathy related to significant cervical spinal stenosis with or without associated central or lateral disc herniation or foraminal stenosis. These surgeries were performed during a 2-year period and follow-up review remains ongoing (average follow-up period 21.6 months). Reconstructive procedures were performed on an average of 4.1 levels (range three—six). Operative time averaged 186 minutes (range 93–229 minutes). Average blood loss was 305 ml (range 100–650 ml). No cases were complicated by neurological deterioration, infection, wound breakdown, graft displacement, or hardware failure. The patients' Nurick Scale grade improved from a preoperative average of 1.8 to a postoperative average of 0.5.

Pre- and postoperative sagittal spinal diameter averaged 11.2 mm (8–14 mm) and 16.6 mm (13–19 mm), respectively. The sagittal compression ratio (sagittal/lateral × 100%) increased from 48% pre- to 72% postoperatively. The spinal canal area increased an average of 55% (range 19–127%). In patients in whom pre- and postoperative flexion—extension radiographs were obtained, 72.7% residual neck motion was maintained. No patient developed increased neck or shoulder pain. Neurological symptoms improved in all patients, with total relief of myelopathy in 50% and partial improvement in 50%.

Conclusions. Modified open-door laminoplasty with allograft bone and titanium miniplates effectively treats neurological deficits in younger patients with congenital and spinal stenosis. Although long-term results are unknown, short-term results are good and there is a low incidence of complications.
Treatment of cervical compressive myelopathy with a new dorsolateral decompressive procedure
Authors: Hidai Yohei , Ebara Sohei , Kamimura Mikio , Tateiwa Yutaka , Itoh Hidehiro , Kinoshita Tetsuya , Takaoka Kunio , Ohtsuka Kuniyoshi
Published: May 2009

Object. A new dorsolateral decompressive procedure involving a unilateral approach has been devised for the treatment of cervical compressive myelopathy. In this operation, the posterior spinal elements of the contralateral side are not disturbed, and thus, postoperative deformity of the cervical spine can be avoided. Following decompressive surgery via the unilateral approach, the cervical spine was kept more stable compared with the results obtained after wide laminectomy or other expansive laminoplasty procedures.

Methods. Twenty-six patients underwent dorsolateral decompressive surgery, and the patients' clinical and radiological results were examined during the follow-up period to evaluate neurological function and postoperative deformities of the cervical spine. The underlying conditions for myelopathy were cervical spondylosis (19 patients), ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament (three patients), and ossification of yellow ligament (four patients). The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 110 months (average 35.5 months). Functional recovery, which was rated by using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association scoring system, was an average of 56% in all patients (100% being equal to full recovery). The recovery rate was compatible with those attained after other expansive laminoplasty procedures. Radiographically, progression to swan-neck or kyphotic deformity was not observed in any patient. No postoperative spinal instability was noted. Based on computerized tomography myelograph evaluation, the average transectional area of the dural tube at the C4–5 level was expanded from 122 mm2 to 169 mm2, and the transectional area of the spinal cord at the C4–5 level was expanded from 39.6 mm2 to 52.9 mm2 after surgery.

Conclusions. The authors conclude that this operative procedure could be used as a new option for the treatment of cervical compressive myelopathy.
Results of the surgical treatment of perimedullary arteriovenous fistulas with special reference to embolization
Authors: Hida Kazutoshi , Iwasaki Yoshinobu , Goto Katsuya , Miyasaka Kazuo , Abe Hiroshi
Published: May 2009

Object. This retrospective study was performed to evaluate the results of surgical treatment and the use of preoperative embolization in managing patients with perimedullary arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs).

Methods. The authors studied 20 consecutive patients with perimedullary AVFs who underwent surgical treatment. Arteriovenous shunts were at the level of the cervical spine in five patients, the thoracic spine in 12, and the conus medullaris in three patients. Of the 20 AVFs, three were fed by the anterior spinal artery only, three by the posterior spinal artery, and 14 by both the anterior and posterior spinal arteries. Nine patients had varices that compressed the spinal cord. Eleven patients underwent surgery, and nine patients underwent surgery combined with adjuvant preoperative embolization.

Preoperative embolization remarkably reduced blood flow through the AVFs and facilitated subsequent surgical procedures. Postoperative angiography revealed complete disappearance of the AVFs in 16 patients. However, small fistulas persisted in the other four patients, whose large lesions were fed by the anterior spinal artery. Postoperatively, neurological status was improved in 11 patients, unchanged in eight, and worse in one patient.

Conclusions. Effective interruption of a spinal arteriovenous shunt was achieved by surgery in all cases, even when the anterior spinal artery was involved. For large and high-flow AVFs, embolization proved to be a useful adjunct to surgery.
Spinal cord ganglioglioma in a child with neurofibromatosis Type 2
Authors: Sawin Paul D. , Theodore Nicholas , Rekate Harold L.
Published: May 2009

✓ Gangliogliomas of the spinal cord are rare disease entities that occur in early childhood. Their occurrence in association with neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) has not been described. The authors describe the unique case of a 2-year-old child with stigmata of NF2 who harbored a spinal cord ganglioglioma that presented as a rapidly growing, exophytic intramedullary mass lesion at the cervicomedullary junction. Treatment consisted of complete surgical resection. Histopathological analysis of the lesion demonstrated a mixed population of neoplastic cells, of both neuronal and glial lineage, that supported the diagnosis of ganglioglioma.
De novo development of a cavernous malformation of the spinal cord following spinal axis radiation
Authors: Maraire J. Nozipo , Abdulrauf Saleem I. , Berger Scott , Knisely Jonathan , Awad Issam A.
Published: May 2009

✓ Analysis of recent reports has suggested that cavernous malformations (CMs) of the brain may have an acquired pathogenesis and a dynamic pathophysiological composition, with documented appearance of new lesions in familial cases and following radiotherapy. The authors report the first case of demonstrated de novo formation of an intramedullary CM following spinal radiation therapy.

A 17 year-old boy presented with diabetes insipidus and delayed puberty. Evaluation of endocrine levels revealed hypopituitarism, and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging demonstrated an infundibular mass. The patient underwent a pterional craniotomy and removal of an infundibular germinoma. The MR image of the spine demonstrated normal results. The patient received craniospinal radiation therapy and did well. He presented 5 years later with acute onset of back pain, lower-extremity weakness and numbness, and difficulty with urination. An MR image obtained of the spine revealed an intramedullary T-7 lesion; its signal characteristics were consistent with a CM.

The patient was initially managed conservatively but developed progressive myelopathy and partial Brown—Séquard syndrome. Although he received high-dose steroids and bed rest, his symptoms worsened. He underwent a costotransversectomy and excision of a hemorrhagic vascular lesion via an anterolateral myelotomy. Pathological examination confirmed features of a CM. The patient has done well and was walking without assistance within 4 weeks of surgery.

De novo genesis of CMs may be associated with prior radiation therapy to the spinal cord.
Lobular capillary hemangioma of the cauda equina
Authors: Holtzman Robert N. N. , Brisson Paul M. , Pearl Richard E. , Gruber Michael L.
Published: May 2009

✓ This 56-year-old woman presented with a 1-year history of low-back pain, sciatica, and paresthesias in the right S-1 dermatome. On examination the patient was shown to have a right-sided Lasègue's sign, normal strength, hypalgesia in the right S-1 dermatome, and a slight diminution of the right Achilles tendon reflex. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 2-cm intradural enhancing lesion at the level of the L-4 vertebra. Laminectomy of L3–L5 vertebrae was performed, and intradural exploration disclosed a blueberry-appearing tumor that was surrounded by an intense arachnoiditis and attached to the right S-1 nerve root. A cystic collection of cerebrospinal fluid was seen caudal to the tumor. Complete removal required transection of the adherent nerve root fascicles. Histological analyses indicate that the lesion was a lobular capillary hemangioma, which, to the authors' knowledge, appears to be one of the first recorded examples of such a case.
Chronic renal failure causing brown tumors and myelopathy
Authors: Fineman Igor , Johnson J. Patrick , Di-Patre Pier-Luigi , Sandhu Harvinder
Published: May 2009

✓ Brown tumors (osteoclastomas) are histologically benign lesions that are caused by primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a frequent complication of chronic renal failure. Skeletal brown tumors are relatively uncommon, and brown tumors that involve the spine are considered very rare. The authors present the case of a 37-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus and hemodialysis-dependent anuric renal failure, in whom spinal cord compression developed due to a brown tumor and pathological fracture at T-9. The patient underwent transthoracic decompressive surgery and spinal reconstruction in which cadaveric femoral allograft and instrumentation were used. Brown tumors of the vertebral column require surgical treatment if medical therapy and parathyroidectomy fail to halt their progression or if acute neurological deterioration occurs. In patients with renal failure bone healing is delayed and there is an increased risk that healing will fail because the metabolic derangements can result in severe osteoporosis. Surgical reconstruction of the spine may require the use of augmentation with instrumentation and aggressive treatment of hyperparathyroidism to achieve successful outcomes.
Intraspinal epidermoid cyst occurring 15 years after lipomyelomeningocele repair
Authors: Song Jun-Hyeok , Kim Myung-Hyun , Shin Kyu-Man
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors report the case of a spinal epidermoid cyst that developed in a patient who had undergone surgery for lipomyelomeningocele repair 15 years earlier. The patient presented with symptoms of retethering. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a cystic intraspinal mass that extended from L-2 to L-5. The mass proved to be an epidermoid cyst. Spinal epidermoid cysts can cause retethering after a repair of lipomyelomeningocele, and the risk of this development can be present for decades.
Imaging features in combined atlantoaxial and occipitoatlantal rotatory subluxation: a rare entity
Authors: Bouillot Pablo , Fuentes Stéphane , Dufour Henry , Manera Luis , Grisoli François
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors report a new case of combined atlantoaxial and occipitoatlantal rotatory subluxation in a 17-year-old girl. They describe the clinical and imaging features of this rare entity. An occiput—C2 arthrodesis was performed.
Ossification of the cervical anterior longitudinal ligament contributing to dysphagia
Authors: Epstein Nancy E. , Hollingsworth Renee
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors evaluated the clinical, radiological, and surgical management of ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament (OALL) that contributed to dysphagia in a patient with simultaneous cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). A 57-year-old man presented with increasing dysphagia and moderate myelopathy. Imaging studies, including esophagoscopy, revealed marked esophageal compression due to OALL that extended between the C2–5 levels and significant C5–7 OPLL that compressed the distal cervical spinal cord. The use of rongeurs and a high-speed drill facilitated excision of the C2–5 OALL mass, and a routine anterior corpectomy with fusion was performed at the C5–7 level. Postoperatively, the patient's dysphagia and symptoms of myelopathy immediately resolved. The strut graft became fully fused 3 months postoperatively, as demonstrated on dynamic x-ray films, and the patient has remained asymptomatic 4 months postoperatively. Patients with dysphagia and coexisting myelopathy benefit from simultaneous surgery for resection of OALL and OPLL masses.
Posterior epidural migration of sequestered lumbar disc fragments
Authors: Robe Pierre , Martin Didier , Lenelle Jacques , Stevenaert Achille
Published: May 2009

✓ The posterior epidural migration of sequestered lumbar disc fragments is an uncommon event. The authors report two such cases in which patients presented with either intense radicular pain or cauda equina syndrome. The radiological characteristics were the posterior epidural location and the ring enhancement of the mass after injection of contrast material. The major diagnostic pitfalls are discussed.
Bilateral sagittal split mandibular osteotomies as an adjunct to the transoral approach to the anterior craniovertebral junction
Authors: Vishteh A. Giancarlo , Beals Stephen P. , Joganic Edward F. , Reiff Jacque L. , Dickman Curtis A. , Sonntag Volker K. H. , Spetzler Robert F.
Published: May 2009

✓ Transoral approaches are used to expose the craniovertebral junction anteriorly. In patients in whom there is limited mandibular excursion, the placement of retractors and/or surgical instruments is difficult, and midline “stairstep split mandibulotomy” has been advocated as an adjunctive procedure. Although effective, this approach requires external splitting of the lip as well as median glossotomy or a lateral mucosal incision. The purpose of this study was to show that bilateral sagittal split mandibular osteotomies (BSSMOs), which are used in orthognathic surgery, represent a safer and more effective alternative to the stairstep split mandibulotomy when performed as an adjunct to the transoral approach because all incisions are intraoral and the plane of retraction is rostrocaudal instead of lateral.

Hospital records and radiographic files of four patients who underwent BSSMO/transoral approach for odontoidectomy between 1994 and 1997 were reviewed retrospectively. There were three women and one boy (mean age 37.8 years, range 11–68 years). Predisposing conditions included rheumatoid arthritis (two patients), Klippel—Feil syndrome (one patient), and congenital occipitocervical instability (one patient). Jaw mobility was limited in all patients. In addition, one patient had macroglossia, another micrognathia, and another retrognathia.

The BSSMO provided excellent exposure for resection of the odontoid process, as verified on follow-up magnetic resonance imaging or computerized tomography studies obtained in all patients. All mandibles were rigidly fixed by placing anterior mandibular border titanium plates and unicortical screws, and there was no incidence of nonunion or of lingual or inferior alveolar nerve injuries. The mean follow-up period was 26 months.

The BSSMO is an excellent, less invasive adjunct to the transoral approach in patients with limited jaw mobility.
An evidence-based review of decompressive surgery in acute spinal cord injury: rationale, indications, and timing based on experimental and clinical studies
Authors: Fehlings Michael G. , Tator Charles H.
Published: May 2009

Object. The authors conducted an evidence-based review of the literature to evaluate critically the rationale and indications for and the timing of decompressive surgery for the treatment of acute, nonpenetrating spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods. The experimental and clinical literature concerning the role of, and the biological rationale for, surgical decompression for acute SCI was reviewed. Clinical studies of nonoperative management of SCI were also examined for comparative purposes. Evidence from clinical trials was categorized as Class I (well-conducted randomized prospective trials), Class II (well-designed comparative clinical studies), or Class III (retrospective studies).

Examination of studies in which animal models of SCI were used consistently demonstrated a beneficial effect of early decompressive surgery, although it is difficult to apply these data directly to the clinical setting. The clinical studies provided suggestive (Class III and limited Class II) evidence that decompressive procedures improve neurological recovery after SCI. However, no clear consensus can be inferred from the literature as to the optimum timing for decompressive surgery. Many authors have advocated delayed treatment to avoid medical complications, although good evidence from recent Class II trials indicates that early decompressive surgery can be performed safely without causing added morbidity or mortality.

Conclusions. There is biological evidence from experimental studies in animals that early decompressive surgery may improve neurological recovery after SCI, although the relevant interventional timing in humans remains unclear. To date, the role of surgical decompression in patients with SCI is only supported by Class III and limited Class II evidence. Accordingly, decompressive surgery for SCI can only be considered a practice option. Furthermore, analysis of the literature does not allow definite conclusions to be drawn regarding appropriate timing of intervention. Hence, there is a need to conduct well-designed experimental and clinical studies of the timing and neurological results of decompressive surgery for the treatment of acute SCI.
Current use and timing of spinal surgery for management of acute spinal cord injury in North America: results of a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Tator Charles H. , Fehlings Michael , Thorpe Kevin , Taylor Wayne
Published: May 2009

Object. A multicenter retrospective study was performed in 36 North American centers to examine the use and timing of surgery in patients who have sustained acute spinal cord injury (SCI). The study was performed to obtain information required for the planning of a randomized controlled trial in which early and late decompressive surgery are compared.

Methods. The records of all patients aged 16 to 75 years with acute SCI admitted to 36 centers within 24 hours of injury over a 9-month period in 1994 and 1995 were examined to obtain data on admission variables, methods of diagnosis, use of traction, and surgical variables including type and timing of surgery.

A total of 585 patients with acute SCI or cauda equina injury were admitted to participating centers, although approximately half were ultimately excluded because they did not meet inclusion criteria. Common causes for exclusion were late admission, age, gunshot wound, and absence of signs of compression on imaging studies. Thus, only approximately 50% of patients with acute SCI would be eligible for inclusion in a study of acute decompressive surgery. Although all patients underwent computerized tomography (CT) scanning, only 54% underwent magnetic resonance imaging, and CT myelography was performed in only 6%. Complete neurological injuries (American Spinal Injury Association Grade A) were present in 57.8%. Traction was applied in only 47% of patients who sustained cervical injury, in whom decompressive traction was successful in only 42% of cases. Neurological deterioration occurred in 8.1% of cases after traction. Surgery was performed in 65.4% of patients. The timing of surgery varied widely: less than 24 hours postinjury in 23.5%, between 25 and 48 hours postinjury in 15.8%, between 48 and 96 hours in 19%, and more than 5 days postinjury in 41.7% of patients.

Conclusions. These data indicate that although surgery is commonly performed in patients with acute SCI, one third of cases are managed nonoperatively, and there is very little agreement on the optimum timing of surgical treatment. The results of this study confirm the need for a randomized controlled trial to assess the optimum timing of decompressive surgery in SCI.
Surgical treatment for patients with cervical flexion myelopathy
Authors: Kohno Michihiro , Takahashi Hiroshi , Ide Katsuhisa , Yamakawa Kenta , Saitoh Tatsuya , Inoue Kiyoharu
Published: May 2009

Object. Cervical flexion myelopathy is a rare condition that mainly affects adolescent boys. In recent years, avoidance of neck flexion has been advocated as the treatment for cervical flexion myelopathy, and treatment with a cervical collar and surgery in which fusion of the cervical spine is performed have been found to be effective. However, previously reported series contained only a limited number of patients. The authors report their experience with treating 10 male patients in whom surgery was performed to correct cervical flexion myelopathy, and they evaluate the patients' surgical outcome.

Methods. The authors performed anterior decompressive surgery and fusion in the cervical spine by using a long bone graft after resection of one or two vertebrae in seven patients. The other three patients underwent posterior fusion of four or five laminae.

After surgery, symptom progression was stopped in all patients, muscle strength improved in seven, and sensory disturbance was alleviated in another two. However, the muscular atrophy in the upper extremities, which was evident in nine patients preoperatively, improved in only two.

Conclusions. Because some neurological improvement was seen in nine of 10 patients, it is believed that surgical fusion of the cervical spine is an effective treatment for patients with cervical flexion myelopathy.
Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of the cervical spine in the comatose or obtunded trauma patient
Authors: D'Alise Mark D. , Benzel Edward C. , Hart Blaine L.
Published: May 2009

Object. Confirmation of cervical spine stability is difficult to obtain in the comatose or obtunded trauma patient. Concurrent therapies such as endotracheal intubation and the application of rigid cervical collars diminish the utility of plain radiographs. Bony as well as supportive soft-tissue structures must be evaluated before the cervical spine can be determined to be uninjured. Although major injuries to extradural soft-tissue structures in the awake trauma patient are frequently excluded by physical examination, when the patient is obtunded the physical examination may be unreliable. Therefore, an enhanced diagnostic method for the evaluation of soft-tissue injury is desirable. The authors conducted a study in which magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was used as such a method to assess posttraumatic spinal stability in the comatose or obtunded patient.

Methods. Early, limited (sagittal T1- and T2-weighted) MR imaging was performed posttruama in 121 patients to assess soft-tissue injury. In all patients the mechanism of injury potentially could be associated with cervical spine instability, and each patient was endotracheally intubated because of head injury or severe multisystem injuries. All patients underwent imaging studies within 48 hours of injury and were either treated or cleared and spinal precautions were discontinued. Patients were excluded from this study if they had an obvious cervical spine injury identified on the initial radiographic studies or if they were determined to be too medically unstable to undergo MR imaging within the acute period (<48 hours postinjury).

Thirty-one (25.6%) of the 121 patients were found to have sustained significant injury to the paravertebral ligamentous structures, the disc interspace, or the bony cervical spine. These injuries were undetected by plain radiography. The other 90 patients (74.4%) were determined within 48 hours not to have sustained a soft-tissue injury. Eight patients (6.6%) ultimately underwent surgery to treat the cervical spine injury, and MR imaging was the first test that identified the injury in each of these patients. There were no complications related to imaging procedures.

Conclusions. Sagittal T1- and T2-weighted MR imaging appears to be a safe, reliable method for evaluating the cervical spine for nonapparent injury in comatose or obtunded trauma patients. In the early postinjury period, nursing and medical care are thereby facilitated for patients in whom occult injury to the spine is ruled out and for whom those attendant precautions are unnecessary.
Combined chest wall resection with vertebrectomy and spinal reconstruction for the treatment of Pancoast tumors
Authors: York Julie E. , Walsh Garrett L. , Lang Frederick F. , Putnam Joe B. , McCutcheon Ian E. , Swisher Stephen G. , Komaki Ritsuko , Gokaslan Ziya L
Published: May 2009

Object. Traditionally, superior sulcus tumors of the lung that involve the chest wall and spinal column have been considered to be unresectable, and historically, patients harboring these tumors have been treated with local radiation therapy with, at best, modest results. The value of gross-total resection remains unclear in this patient population; however, with the recent advances in surgical technique and spinal instrumentation, procedures involving more radical removal of such tumors are now possible. At The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, the authors have developed a new technique for resecting superior sulcus tumors that invade the chest wall and spinal column. They present a technical description of this procedure and results in nine patients in whom stage IIIb superior sulcus tumors extensively invaded the vertebral column.

Methods. These patients underwent gross-total tumor resection via a combined approach that included posterolateral thoracotomy, apical lobectomy, chest wall resection, laminectomy, vertebrectomy, anterior spinal column reconstruction with methylmethacrylate, and placement of spinal instrumentation. There were six men and three women, with a mean age of 55 years (range 36–72 years). Histological examination revealed squamous cell carcinoma (three patients), adenocarcinoma (four patients), and large cell carcinoma (two patients). The mean postoperative follow-up period was 16 months. All patients are currently ambulatory or remained ambulatory until they died. Pain related to tumor invasion improved in four patients and remained unchanged in five. In three patients instrumentation failed and required revision. There was one case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage that was treated with lumbar drainage and one case of wound breakdown that required revision. Two patients experienced local tumor recurrence, and one patient developed a second primary lung tumor.

Conclusions. The authors conclude that in selected patients, combined radical resection of superior sulcus tumors of the lung that involve the chest wall and spinal column may represent an acceptable treatment modality that can offer a potential cure while preserving neurological function and providing pain control.
Posterior approach for cervical intramedullary arteriovenous malformation with diffuse-type nidus
Authors: Ohata Kenji , Takami Toshihiro , El-Naggar Alaa , Morino Michiharu , Nishio Akimasa , Inoue Yuichi , Hakuba Akira
Published: May 2009

✓ The treatment of spinal intramedullary arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) with a diffuse-type nidus that contains a neural element poses different challenges compared with a glomus-type nidus. The surgical elimination of such lesions involves the risk of spinal cord ischemia that results from coagulation of the feeding artery that, at the same time, supplies cord parenchyma. However, based on evaluation of the risks involved in performing embolization, together with the frequent occurrence of reperfusion, which necessitates frequent reembolization, the authors consider surgery to be a one-stage solution to a disease that otherwise has a very poor prognosis.

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging revealed diffuse-type intramedullary AVMs in the cervical spinal cords of three patients who subsequently underwent surgery via the posterior approach. The AVM was supplied by the anterior spinal artery in one case and by both the anterior and posterior spinal arteries in the other two cases. In all three cases, a posterior median myelotomy was performed up to the vicinity of the anterior median fissure that divided the spinal cord together with the nidus, and the feeding artery was coagulated and severed at its origin from the anterior spinal artery. In the two cases in which the posterior spinal artery fed the AVM, the feeding artery was coagulated on the dorsal surface of the spinal cord. Neurological outcome improved in one patient and deteriorated slightly to mildly in the other two patients. Postoperative angiography demonstrated complete disappearance of the AVM in all cases.

Because of the extremely poor prognosis of patients with spinal intramedullary AVMs, this surgical technique for the treatment of diffuse-type AVMs provides acceptable operative outcome. Surgical intervention should be considered when managing a patient with a diffuse-type intramedullary AVM in the cervical spinal cord.
Multiple extradural arachnoid cysts as a cause of spinal cord compression in a child
Authors: Myles Lynn M. , Gupta Nalin , Armstrong Derek , Rutka James T.
Published: May 2009

✓ Symptomatic arachnoid cysts of the spine are uncommon in children and have only rarely been reported to occur extradurally. The authors report a case of multiple extradural spinal arachnoid cysts in a 9-year-old child who presented with signs of spinal cord compression. The extent of the disease, which affected the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine, and the number of independent cysts make this case unique and suggest an underlying defect in the dura of the spinal canal that is predisposed to the formation of cysts. The investigations of choice, surgical planning, and surgical technique are considered. The literature is reviewed and mechanisms of cyst formation discussed.
Percutaneous treatment of gas-containing lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Righini Andrea , Lucchi Silvia , Reganati Paolo , Zavanone Mario , Bettinelli Agostino
Published: May 2009

✓ A limited number of cases have been reported in which gas-containing lumbar disc herniation caused compression of nerve roots. The authors describe two patients in whom computerized tomography scanning revealed a large intraspinal gas collection that appeared to be causing nerve root compression and that was successfully evacuated by percutaneous needle aspiration.
Transpedicular instrumentation as an adjunct in the treatment of thoracolumbar and lumbar spine tuberculosis with early stage bone destruction
Authors: Lee Tao-Chen , Lu Kang , Yang Lin-Cheng , Huang Hsuan-Ying , Liang Cheng-Loong
Published: May 2009

Object. Because modern imaging techniques now allow for early diagnosis of spinal tuberculosis, more conservative management options are possible. The authors evaluated the effectiveness of transpedicular instrumentation for treatment of thoracolumbar and lumbar spinal tuberculosis in patients with mild bone destruction and the main symptom of “instability catch” (a sudden painful “snap” that occurs when one extends from a forward bent to an upright position).

Methods. Eighteen patients (nine men and nine women, age range 49–71 years) with spinal tuberculosis were treated with transpedicular instrumentation that was supplemented with posterolateral fusion and chemotherapy. All patients were wheelchair dependent or bed-ridden due to severe instability catch, with a mean symptom duration of 2.5 months (range 1–6 months). Two contiguous vertebrae were involved in 17 patients, and a single vertebrae was involved in one. In five patients mild neurological deficits (Frankel Grade D) were present. During surgery, the screws were implanted into the two nonaffected pedicles nearest the lesion to stabilize the involved segments. No attempt at radical debridement or neural decompression was undertaken. The follow-up period ranged from 21 to 40 months. Postoperatively the instability catch was relieved within 10 days (excellent outcome) and within 1 month (good outcome) in seven and eight patients, respectively, and within 3 months (fair outcome) in two; in the remaining patient, the symptom did not resolve (poor outcome). A short duration of symptoms (generally < 3 months) and bone destruction of less than 50% in the involved vertebral bodies were observed in patients who made a good or excellent outcome. During the follow-up period, good maintenance of spinal alignment, stabilization of the involved segment, and resolution of the inflammatory process were shown; however, there was no strong evidence that fusion had occurred at the bony defect. Patients in whom a fair outcome was achieved experienced a longer duration of symptoms, and in each, one vertebral body with greater than 50% bone destruction was demonstrated. However, good maintenance of spinal alignment was also shown during the follow-up period. The patient whose outcome was poor had the longest history (6 months) of symptoms and the most extensive involvement of the spine (> 50% destruction of two adjacent lumbar vertebral bodies). Postoperatively, implant failure occurred and the patient developed a wound infection.

Conclusions. Transpedicular instrumentation provides rapid relief of instability catch and prevents late angular deformity in patients with thoracolumbar and lumbar spinal tuberculosis in whom limited (< 50%) bone destruction of the involved vertebral bodies has been shown and whose main symptom is instability catch.
Intraoperative electromyographic assessment of recurrent laryngeal nerve stress and pharyngeal injury during anterior cervical spine surgery with Caspar instrumentation
Authors: Jellish W. Scott , Jensen Randy L. , Anderson Douglas E. , Shea John F.
Published: May 2009

Object. Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury occurs after anterior cervical spine procedures. In this study the authors used intraoperative electromyographic (EMG) monitoring of the posterior pharynx as a surrogate for RLN function and monitored endotracheal tube (ET) cuff pressure to determine if there was an association between these variables and clinical outcome.

Methods. Sixty patients in whom anterior cervical spine procedures were to be performed comprised the study population. After intubation, the ET cuff was adjusted to a just-seal volume and attached to a pressure monitor. A laryngeal surface electrode was placed in the posterior pharynx, and spontaneous EMG activity was monitored throughout the procedure. Cuff pressures and EMG activity were recorded during neck retraction and when EMG activity increased 20% above baseline. Patients were divided into two groups: those with sore throat/dysphonia and those without symptoms. Cuff pressures and EMG values were compared between groups, and the differences were correlated with clinical outcome.

Conclusions. Hoarseness immediately after surgery was reported in 38% of patients whereas 15% exhibited severe symptoms. In symptomatic patients the period of intubation had been longer, and the ET cuff pressures had been elevated. In most patients EMG activity increased during insertion of the retractor and decreased after its removal. In these patients a greater number of episodes of elevated EMG activity during surgery were also noted. Two patients experienced prolonged hoarseness, and one required teflon injections of the vocal fold. This patient's EMG activity increased (15–18 times baseline) during surgery. In the few patients who were symptomatic with increased EMG activity, neither the timing nor direction of change could be associated with symptoms. Intubation time and elevated ET cuff pressure were the most important contributors to dysphonia and sore throat after anterior cervical spine surgery.