Analysis of Postoperative Clinical Outcomes in Cervical Myelopathy due to Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament Involving C2

Shetty Ajoy Prasad,Singh Neerav Anand,Kalanjiyam Guna Pratheep,Meena Jalaj,Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan,Kanna Rishi Mugesh 대한척추외과학회 2023 Asian Spine Journal Vol.17 No.3

Study Design: Retrospective study.Purpose: To investigate the radiological phenotype, patient and surgery-related risk factors influencing postoperative clinical outcome for cervical myelopathy caused by ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament involving C2 following posterior instrumented laminectomy and fusion.Overview of Literature: Ossified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is caused by ectopic ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. It can cause neurological impairment and severe disability. For multilevel cervical OPLL, studies have shown good neurological recovery following cord decompression via either an anterior or posterior approach. There is, however, a lacunae in the literature regarding the outcomes of patients with OPLL extending to C2 and above (C2 [+]).Methods: We retrospectively studied 61 patients with C2 (+) OPLL who had posterior instrumented laminectomy and fusion at Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore between July 2011 and January 2021, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Data on demographics, clinical outcomes, radiology, and post-surgical outcomes were gathered.Results: Among 61 patients, 56 were males and five were females. The OPLL pattern was mixed in 32 cases (52.5%), continuous in 26 cases (42.6%), segmental in two cases (3.3%), and circumscribed in one patient (1.6%). All of our patients showed signs of neurological improvement after a 24-month follow-up. The mean preoperative modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score was 10.6 (range, 5–11) and the postoperative mJOA score was 15.8 (range, 12–18). The recovery rate was >75% in 27 patients (44.6%), >50% in 32 patients (52.5%), and >25% in two patients (3.3%). The average recovery rate was 71% (range, 33%–100%). The independent risk factor for predicting recovery rate is the preoperative mJOA score.Conclusions: In C2 (+) OPLL, posterior instrumented decompression and fusion provide a relatively safe approach and satisfactory results.

Posterior Stabilization of Unstable Sacral Fractures: A Single-Center Experience of Percutaneous Sacroiliac Screw and Lumbopelvic Fixation in 67 Cases

Shetty Ajoy Prasad,Renjith Karukayil Ramakrishnan,Perumal Ramesh,Anand Sri Vijay,Kanna Rishi Mugesh,Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan 대한척추외과학회 2021 Asian Spine Journal Vol.15 No.5

Study Design: This is a retrospective study. Purpose: Recent advances in intraoperative imaging and closed reduction techniques have led to a shifting trend toward surgical management in every unstable sacral fracture. This study aimed to evaluate the clinicoradiological outcome of the sacroiliac (SI) screw and lumbopelvic fixation (LPF) techniques and thereby delineate the indications for each. Overview of Literature: Optimal management guidelines for unstable sacral fractures are still lacking probably due to the rarity of these injuries and varying fixation trends. Methods: Out of the 67 patients, 40 and 27 were in the SI and LPF groups, respectively. The electronic medical record for each patient was reviewed, including patient demographic data, mode of trauma, coexisting injuries, neurological status (Gibbon’s four-grade system), Injury Severity Score, time from admission to operative stabilization, type of surgical stabilization, complications, return to the operating room, and treatment outcome measures using Majeed’s functional grading system and Matta’s radiological criteria. The minimum follow-up period was 2 years. Results: Noncomminuted longitudinal injuries with normal neurology and acceptable closed reduction have undergone SI screw fixation (n=40). Irreducible, comminuted, or high transverse fractures associated with dysmorphic anatomy or neurodeficit were managed by LPF (n=27). Excellent and good Majeed and Matta scores at 86.57% and 92.54% of the patients, respectively, were postoperatively achieved. Conclusions: Unstable sacral fractures can be effectively managed with percutaneous SI screw including vertically unstable injuries by paying strict attention to preoperative patient selection whereas LPF can be reserved for comminuted fractures, unacceptable closed reduction, associated neurodeficit, lumbosacral dysmorphism, and high transverse fractures.

Validation Study of Rajasekaran’s Kyphosis Classification System: Do We Clearly Understand Single- and Two-Column Deficiencies?

Ajoy Prasad Shetty,Rajesh Rajavelu,Vibhu Krishnan Viswanathan,Kota Watanabe,Harvinder Singh Chhabra,Rishi Mukesh Kanna,Jason Pui Yin Cheung,Yong Hai,Mun Keong Kwan,Gabriel Liu,Gabriel Liu,Saumajit Bas 대한척추외과학회 2020 Asian Spine Journal Vol.14 No.4

Study Design: Multicenter validation study.Purpose: To evaluate the inter-rater reliability of Rajasekaran’s kyphosis classification through a multicenter validation study.Overview of Literature: The classification of kyphosis, developed by Rajasekaran, incorporates factors related to curve characteristics, including column deficiency, disc mobility, curve magnitude, and osteotomy requirements. Although the classification offers significant benefits in determining prognosis and management decisions, it has not been subjected to multicenter validation.Methods: A total of 30 sets of images, including plain radiographs, computed tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging scans, were randomly selected from our hospital patient database. All patients had undergone deformity correction surgery for kyphosis. Twelve spine surgeons from the Asia-Pacific region (six different countries) independently evaluated and classified the deformity types and proposed their surgical recommendations. This information was then compared with standard deformity classification and surgical recommendations.Results: The kappa coefficients for the classification were as follows: 0.88 for type 1A, 0.78 for type 1B, 0.50 for type 2B, 0.40 for type 3A, 0.63 for type 3B, and 0.86 for type 3C deformities. The overall kappa coefficient for the classification was 0.68. Regarding the repeatability of osteotomy recommendations, kappa values were the highest for Ponte’s (Schwab type 2) osteotomy (kappa 0.8). Kappa values for other osteotomy recommendations were 0.52 for pedicle subtraction/disc-bone osteotomy (Schwab type 3/4), 0.42 for vertebral column resection (VCR, type 5), and 0.30 for multilevel VCRs (type 6).Conclusions: Excellent accuracy was found for types 1A, 1B, and 3C deformities (ends of spectrum). There was more variation among surgeons in differentiating between one-column (types 2A and 2B) and two-column (types 3A and 3B) deficiencies, as surgeons often failed to recognize the radiological signs of posterior column failure. This failure to identify column deficiencies can potentially alter kyphosis management. There was excellent consensus among surgeons in the recommendation of type 2 osteotomy; however, some variation was observed in their choice for other osteotomies.

Intraoperative Life Threatening Acute Lung Injury Due to Multiple Septic Pulmonary Emboli during Transpedicular Biopsy and Kyphoplasty

Karuppaiah Karthik,Ajoy Prasad Shetty,Shanmuganathan Rajasekaran 대한척추외과학회 2014 Asian Spine Journal Vol.8 No.2

A 55-year-old gentleman was presented to our clinic two months after a trivial fall with persistent pain, gibbus at the thoraco-lumbar junction and intact neurology. Radiological and laboratory investigations suggested osteoporotic fracture or metastasis. Due to unremitting pain, a plan was made to do transpedicular biopsy and kyphoplasty. Biopsy needles were inserted into both pedicles and an attempt at aspiration was made. Since the aspirate was dry, 5 to 6 mL of saline was injected through one needle and an attempt at aspiration was made through the other. Three-millilitres of sero-sanguineous material mixed with pus came out and kyphoplasty was deferred. After extubation, the patient developed severe bronchospasm and was transferred to the intensive care unit. Investigations confirmed multiple septic pulmonary emboli and the patient recovered completely after treatment. This report highlights that confirmation of the diagnosis is essential before performing any procedure that increases the intravertebral pressure and the place should have appropriate facilities to manage complications.

Does Sarcopenia Increase the Risk for Fresh Vertebral Fragility Fractures?: A Case-Control Study

Ashish Anand,Ajoy Prasad Shetty,K. R. Renjith,Sri Vijay Anand K. S.,Rishi Mugesh Kanna,Shanmuganathan Rajasekaran 대한척추외과학회 2020 Asian Spine Journal Vol.14 No.1

Study Design: Case-control study. Purpose: Sarcopenia is an age associated condition characterized by decrease in muscle mass, strength, and physical performance. We aimed to investigate whether sarcopenia increased the risk of vertebral fragility fractures among the elderly. Overview of Literature: Initial reports on sarcopenia suggest its contribution to the development of vertebral fragility fractures. However, recent studies showed contradictory findings. Methods: Fifty-one consecutive patients with vertebral fragility fractures and matched controls without fractures were evaluated for sarcopenia, T-score, body mass index, and presence of preexisting vertebral fractures. Sarcopenia was diagnosed as total psoas cross-sectional area (TPA) 2 standard deviations below normative value from normal young adults and decreased handgrip strength (26 kg for men and 18 kg for women). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using the fresh fracture occurrence as the dependent variable. Results: Sarcopenia was confirmed in 29.4% and 7.8% of cases and controls (p=0.005), respectively; 56.8% and 13.7% of cases and controls had previous vertebral fractures. Sarcopenia prevalence was greater among those with previous fractures (38% vs. 7.6%; odds ratio, 7.76; p<0.001). TPA was lower among the cases (1,278 mm2 vs. 1,569 mm2, p=0.001) and those with previous fractures (1,168 mm2 vs. 1,563 mm2, p<0.001). Handgrip strength was greater among those without previous fractures (19.6 kg vs. 16.3 kg, p=0.05). In multivariate analysis, sarcopenia was not identified as a significant predictor of fresh fractures whereas previous fractures and lower T-score were found to be significant. Conclusions: Sarcopenia is not an independent risk factor for fresh vertebral fragility fractures in the elderly.

The Effectiveness of Noninvasive Positive Pressure Ventilation in Subarachnoid Pleural Fistula: A Case Report and Literature Review

Dilip Chand Raja Soundararajan,Ajoy Prasad Shetty,Rishi Mugesh Kanna,,S Rajasekaran 대한척추신경외과학회 2018 Neurospine Vol.15 No.4

Subarachnoid pleural fistula (SPF) is an aberrant communication between the pleural cavity and subarachnoid space, resulting in uncontrolled cerebrospinal fluid drainage. The negative pressure of the pleural cavity creates a continuous suctioning effect, thereby impeding the spontaneous closure of these fistulas. Dural tears or punctures in cardiothoracic procedures, spinal operations, and trauma are known to cause such abnormal communications. Failure to recognize this entity may result in sudden neurological or respiratory complications. Hence, a high index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis and prompt management. Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation has been described to be effective in managing such fistulas, thus mitigating the high morbidity associated with exploratory surgery for primary repair. Herein, we describe the typical presentation of SPF and the clinical course, treatment, and follow-up of a patient who sustained SPF following anterior thoracic spinal surgery.

In Vertebral Hemangiomas with Neurological Deficit, Is a Less Extensive Approach Adequate?

K. Guna Pratheep,Shetty Ajoy Prasad,K. S. Srivijayanand,Kavishwar Rohit,Kanna Rishi Mugesh,Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan 대한척추외과학회 2023 Asian Spine Journal Vol.17 No.1

Study Design: This was a retrospective study. Purpose: To analyze the surgical and neurological outcomes following surgical decompression in patients with aggressive vertebral hemangioma (AVH) presenting with neurological deficit and to determine whether a less extensive approach is appropriate. Overview of Literature: AVHs are a rare subset of benign vascular tumors frequently presenting with neurological deficit because of spinal cord compression. Though the results of surgical management have improved over time, there is a lack of consensus on the ideal management in this group of patients. Methods: Twenty-one patients who underwent surgery for AVH between 2009 and 2018 were analyzed. Demographic and clinical details of patients were retrieved from hospital information system. Imaging information (i.e., radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) of all patients was accessed and analyzed in picture archiving and communication system. Tumor staging was performed using Enneking and Weinstein–Boriani–Biagini classifications and Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score. At followup, neurological and radiological evaluations were performed. Results: Twenty-one patients (13 [61.9%] females and 8 [38.1%] males) were included with a mean age of 44.29 years (range, 14–72 years). All patients in the study had neurological deficit. Back pain was present in 80.9% of patients. Mean duration of symptoms was 4.6 months (range, 1 day to 10 months). Most common lesion location was thoracic spine (n=12), followed by thoracolumbar (D11– L2; n=7) and lumbar (n=2) regions. Ten patients had multiple level lesions. All patients underwent preoperative embolization. Nine patients underwent intralesional spondylectomy with reconstruction; another nine patients underwent stabilization, decompression, and vertebroplasty; three patients underwent decompression and stabilization. Neurology improved in all patients, and only one case of recurrence was noted in a mean follow-up of 55.78±25 months (range, 24–96 months). Conclusions: In AVH, good clinical and neurological outcomes with low recurrence rates can be achieved using less extensive procedures, such as posterior instrumented decompression with vertebroplasty and intralesional tumor resection.

Reciprocal Changes in Sagittal Alignment in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Patients Following Strategic Pedicle Screw Fixation

Srikanth Reddy Dumpa,Ajoy Prasad Shetty,Siddharth N. Aiyer,Rishi Mugesh Kanna,S Rajasekaran 대한척추외과학회 2018 Asian Spine Journal Vol.12 No.2

Study Design: Retrospective observational study. Purpose: To analyze the effect of low-density (LD) strategic pedicle screw fixation on the correction of coronal and sagittal parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. Overview of Literature: LD screw fixation achieves favorable coronal correction, but its effect on sagittal parameters is not well established. AIS is often associated with decreased thoracic kyphosis (TK), and the use of multi-level pedicle screws may result in further flattening of the sagittal profile. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 92 patients with AIS to compare coronal and sagittal parameters preoperatively and at 2-year follow-up. All patients underwent posterior correction via LD strategic pedicle screw fixation. Radiographs were analyzed for primary Cobb angle (PCA), coronal imbalance, cervical sagittal angle (CSA), TK, lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), C7 plumb line, spino–sacral angle, curve flexibility, and screw density. Results: PCA changed significantly from 57.6°±13.9° to 19°±8.4° (p <0.0001) with 67% correction, where the mean curve flexibility was 41% and screw density was 68%. Regional sagittal parameters did not change significantly, including CSA (from 10.76° to 10.56°, p =0.893), TK (from 24.4° to 22.8°, p =0.145), and LL (from 50.3° to 51.1°, p =0.415). However, subgroup analysis of the hypokyphosis group (<10º) and the hyperkyphosis group (>40º) showed significant correction of TK (p <0.0001 in both). Sacro–pelvic parameters showed a significant decrease of PT and increase of SS, suggesting a reduction in pelvic retroversion SS (from 37° to 40°, p =0.0001) and PT (from 15° to 14°, p =0.025). Conclusions: LD strategic pedicle screw fixation provides favorable coronal correction and improves overall sagittal sacro–pelvic parameters. This technique does not cause significant flattening of TK and results in a favorable restoration of TK in patients with hypokyphosis or hyperkyphosis.

Type I Arnold Chiari Malformation with Syringomyelia and Scoliosis: Radiological Correlations between Tonsillar Descent, Syrinx Morphology and Curve Characteristics: A Retrospective Study

Shanmugasundaram Sivaraj,Viswanathan Vibhu Krishnan,Shetty Ajoy Prasad,Rai Nimish,Hajare Swapnil,Kanna Rishi Mukesh,Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan 대한척추외과학회 2023 Asian Spine Journal Vol.17 No.1

Study Design: Retrospective cohort.Purpose: The current study was planned to evaluate deformity characteristics, assess relationship between morphology of syrinx/Arnold Chiari malformation (ACM) and deformity, analyze effect of posterior fossa decompression (PFD), and evaluate outcome.Overview of Literature: Scoliosis in ACM-I and syringomyelia (SM) is uncommon, and deformity characteristics differ from those seen in idiopathic scoliosis.Methods: Data regarding patients, who underwent PFD for ACM-I presenting with SM and scoliosis between January 2009 and December 2018, were retrospectively collected. Only patients with 2-year follow-up were included. Sagittal/coronal deformity and sagittal spinopelvic parameters were examined. Symmetry and extent of tonsillar descent, as well as morphology (configuration/variation) and extent of syrinx were determined.Results: A total of 42 patients (20 females; age: 14.2±5.8 years) were included; 35 patients (83.3%) had atypical curves. Mean preoperative coronal Cobb was 57.7°±20.9°; and 12 (28.6%) had significant coronal imbalance. Tonsillar descent was classified as grade 1, 2, and 3 in 16 (38.1%), 11 (26.2%), and 15 (35.7%) patients; 35 patients (83.3%) had asymmetric tonsillar descent; 17 (40.4%), 3 (7.1%), 16 (38.1%), and 6 (14.4%) had circumscribed, moniliform, dilated, and slender syrinx patterns; and 9 (21.4%), 12 (28.6%), and 21 (50%) of syrinx were right-sided, left-sided, and centric. There was no significant relationship between side of tonsillar dominance (<i>p</i> =0.31), grade of descent (<i>p</i> =0.30), and convexity of deformity. There was significant association between side of syrinx and convexity of scoliosis (<i>p</i> =0.01). PFD was performed in all, and deformity correction was performed in 23 patients. In curves ≤40°, PFD alone could stabilize scoliosis progression (<i>p</i> =0.02). There was significant reduction in syrinx/cord ratio following PFD (<i>p</i> <0.001).Conclusions: ACM-I+SM patients had atypical curve patterns in 83% of cases, and the side of syrinx deviation correlates with scoliosis convexity. Syrinx shrinks significantly following PFD. PFD may not stabilize scoliosis in curves >40°.

Classification and Management Algorithm for Postoperative Wound Complications Following Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion

Kanna Rishi Mugesh,Renjith Karukayil Ramakrishnan,Shetty Ajoy Prasad,Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan 대한척추외과학회 2020 Asian Spine Journal Vol.14 No.5

Study Design: Retrospective study.Purpose: Postoperative wound complications occurring after transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) are unique, as they can involve different tissue zones (subcutaneous, subfascial, osseous, peri-implant, and disc). Overview of Literature: Management of postoperative infections occurring after TLIF remains controversial in the context of retention or removal of implants.Methods: A total of 1,279 consecutive patients (1,520 segments) who underwent TLIF with a minimum follow-up of 1 year were analyzed. Patients with wound complications were classified anatomically into the following five types: type 1, suprafascial necrosis; type 2, wound dehiscence; type 3, pus around screws and rods; type 4, bone marrow edema; and type 5, pus in the disc space. Details pertaining to clinicoradiological and laboratory findings and management were also recorded.Results: Of the 62 patients (4.8%) with wound complications, there were seven patients in type 1, 35 in type 2, 10 in type 3, four in type 4, and six in type 5. Patients in types 1 and 2 manifested delayed wound healing and were systemically well. In type 1, five patients were managed with resuturing and two were managed conservatively. In type 2, all patients had wound gaping and were managed by debridement, whereas three patients required vacuum-assisted closure. Patients in type 3 had severe back pain and fever, with demonstrable pus around the screw site. Tissue culture identified organisms in 90% of the patients. Patients in type 4 presented with increasing back pain, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed vertebral bone marrow edema. Those in type 5 had severe back pain and fever, with demonstrable pus in the disc space. Patients in types 3–5 required debridement, implant revision/retention, and long-term antibiotics.Conclusions: The new anatomical classification of surgical site infections could help grade the severity of infection and provide tangible treatment guidelines, resulting in better infection clearance and patient outcomes.