Study purpose and background. Kinematic variables have been identified as potential biomarkers for low back pain patients; however, an in-depth comparison between chronic (n=22), acute (n=15), and healthy controls (n=136) has not been done. This retrospective data analysis compared intervertebral lumbar motion parameters, angular range of motion, translation, maximum disc height, motion share inequality (MSI) and variability (MSV), and laxity, between these groups. Methods and results. Kinematic parameters were determined using video tracking techniques utilising quantitative fluoroscopy (QF), during both weight-bearing and recumbent controlled sagittal bending tasks. Data was analysed for normality, and appropriate statistical tests were applied to determine differences between groups. There were no significant differences between the groups for age, height, weight and sex. Whilst few differences were found between acute and healthy groups, differences were shown between both chronic and healthy, and acute and chronic groups for all six parameters. Of particular note were examples of differences in the motion share parameters between the acute and chronic populations, with an increased MSI in the chronic group during recumbent flexion, and MSV during recumbent extension, and inversely an increase in MSV in the acute group during weight-bearing flexion. Conclusion. Analysis of intervertebral lumbar motion provides valuable insights into kinematic differences between chronic, acute, and healthy control populations. These findings suggest that there is variation between the groups which is knowledge that may benefit management strategies. Further exploration of the time varying data is warranted to explore how such differences may relate to the motion share inequalities and variability shown. Conflicts of Interest. No conflicts of interest. Sources of Funding. No funding obtained

Purpose and Background. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) can affect 56–80% of physiotherapists. Patient handling is reported as a significant risk factor for developing WRMSD with the back most frequently injured. Physiotherapists perform therapeutic handling to manually assist and facilitate patients’ movement to aid rehabilitation, which can increase physiotherapists risk of experiencing high forces during patient handling. Methods and Results. A descriptive cross-sectional study was completed to explore and quantitatively measure the movement of ten physiotherapists during patient handling, over one working day, in a neurological setting. A wearable 3-dimensional motion analysis system, Xsens (Movella, Henderson, NV), was used to measure physiotherapist movement and postures in the ward setting during patient treatment sessions. The resulting joint angles were reported descriptively and compared against a frequently used ergonomic assessment tool, the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Physiotherapists adopted four main positions during patient handling tasks: 1) kneeling; 2) half-kneeling; 3) standing; and 4) sitting. Eight patient handling tasks were identified and described: 1) Lie-to-sit; 2) sit-to-lie; 3) sit-to-stand; facilitation of 4) upper limb; 5) lower limb; 6) trunk; and 7) standing treatments; and 8) walking facilitation. Kneeling and sitting positions demonstrated greater neck extension and greater lumbosacral flexion during treatments which scores highly with the RULA. Conclusion. This research identified that patient treatment tasks were more often performed in kneeling or sitting positions than standing. Current moving and handling guidance teaches moving and handling in a standing position; loading and stresses experienced by the physiotherapists may differ in sitting or kneeling positions. Conflicts of interest. None. Sources of funding. None. This work has been presented as a poster at the CSP conference Glasgow 2023

Background. Dynamic measurement of continuous intervertebral motion in low back pain (LBP) research in-vivo is developing. Lumbar motion parameters with the features of biomarkers are emerging and show promise for advancing understanding of personalised biometrics of LBP. However, measurement of changes over time inevitably involve error, due to subjects' natural variation and/or variation in the measurement process. Thus, intra-subject repeatability of parameters to measure changes over time should be established. Methods. Seven lumbar spine motion parameters, measured using quantitative fluoroscopy (QF), were assessed for intra-subject repeatability: Intervertebral range-of-motion (IV-RoM), laxity, motion sharing inequality (MSI), motion sharing variability (MSV), flexion translation and flexion disc height. Intra-subject reliability (ICC) and minimal detectable change (MDC95) of baseline and 6-week follow-up measurements were obtained for 109 healthy volunteers (54 coronal and 55 sagittal). Results. Reliability was substantial to excellent for repeated measurements of IV-RoM, laxity, flexion translation and disc height during recumbent passive motion (ICC:0.69–0.95) and during active weight-bearing motion (ICC:0.64–0.92). MSI was moderate to excellent across both positions (ICC:0.43–0.91). The reliability of MSV was generally poorer for both positions (0.14–0.65). For all parameters, measurement error exceeded 42%. Conclusion. Recumbent IV-RoM, laxity and disc height demonstrated the best repeatability at 6-weeks suggesting they may be better outcome moderators in clinical studies than other variables. However measurement errors for all parameters were higher than the minimal changes of interest. These results are limited to healthy controls and should be regarded as reference values. Similar studies in CNSLBP patients are required. No conflicts of interest. Sources of Funding: Dr Rebecca Hemming received a Seedcorn Bursary from the Cardiff Institute of Tissue Engineering and Repair (CITER) and Professor Alan Breen received a project grant from the European Chiropractors Union Research Fund (ECURF)

Objectives. Many studies have investigated the kinematics of the lumbar spine and the morphological features of the lumbar discs. However, the segment-dependent immediate changes of the lumbar intervertebral space height during flexion-extension motion are still unclear. This study examined the changes of intervertebral space height during flexion-extension motion of lumbar specimens. Methods. First, we validated the accuracy and repeatability of a custom-made mechanical loading equipment set-up. Eight lumbar specimens underwent CT scanning in flexion, neural, and extension positions by using the equipment set-up. The changes in the disc height and distance between adjacent two pedicle screw entry points (DASEP) of the posterior approach at different lumbar levels (L3/4, L4/5 and L5/S1) were examined on three-dimensional lumbar models, which were reconstructed from the CT images. Results. All the vertebral motion segments (L3/4, L4/5 and L5/S1) had greater changes in disc height and DASEP from neutral to flexion than from neutral to extension. The change in anterior disc height gradually increased from upper to lower levels, from neutral to flexion. The changes in anterior and posterior disc heights were similar at the L4/5 level from neutral to extension, but the changes in anterior disc height were significantly greater than those in posterior disc height at the L3/4 and L5/S1 levels, from neutral to extension. Conclusions. The lumbar motion segment showed level-specific changes in disc height and DASEP. The data may be helpful in understanding the physiologic dynamic characteristics of the lumbar spine and in optimising the parameters of lumbar surgical instruments. Cite this article: M. Fu, Q. Ye, C. Jiang, L. Qian, D. Xu, Y. Wang, P. Sun, J. Ouyang. The segment-dependent changes in lumbar intervertebral space height during flexion-extension motion. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:245–252. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.64.BJR-2016-0245.R1

Objectives. Loss of motion following spine segment fusion results in increased strain in the adjacent motion segments. However, to date, studies on the biomechanics of the cervical spine have not assessed the role of coupled motions in the lumbar spine. Accordingly, we investigated the biomechanics of the cervical spine following cervical fusion and lumbar fusion during simulated whiplash using a whole-human finite element (FE) model to simulate coupled motions of the spine. Methods. A previously validated FE model of the human body in the driver-occupant position was used to investigate cervical hyperextension injury. The cervical spine was subjected to simulated whiplash exposure in accordance with Euro NCAP (the European New Car Assessment Programme) testing using the whole human FE model. The coupled motions between the cervical spine and lumbar spine were assessed by evaluating the biomechanical effects of simulated cervical fusion and lumbar fusion. Results. Peak anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) strain ranged from 0.106 to 0.382 in a normal spine, and from 0.116 to 0.399 in a fused cervical spine. Strain increased from cranial to caudal levels. The mean strain increase in the motion segment immediately adjacent to the site of fusion from C2-C3 through C5-C6 was 26.1% and 50.8% following single- and two-level cervical fusion, respectively (p = 0.03, unpaired two-way t-test). Peak cervical strains following various lumbar-fusion procedures were 1.0% less than those seen in a healthy spine (p = 0.61, two-way ANOVA). Conclusion. Cervical arthrodesis increases peak ALL strain in the adjacent motion segments. C3-4 experiences greater changes in strain than C6-7. Lumbar fusion did not have a significant effect on cervical spine strain. Cite this article: H. Huang, R. W. Nightingale, A. B. C. Dang. Biomechanics of coupled motion in the cervical spine during simulated whiplash in patients with pre-existing cervical or lumbar spinal fusion: A Finite Element Study. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:28–35. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.71.BJR-2017-0100.R1

Purpose and Background. Physical mechanisms underlying back pain impairment are poorly understood. Measuring movement features linked to back pain should help understand its causes and decide on best management. Previous kinematic studies have pointed to diverse features distinguishing back pain sufferers. However, the complexity of 3D kinematics means that it is difficult to choose, a priori, which variables or variable combinations are most important. This study set out to obtain a rich set of kinematic data from spinal regions and lower extremities during typical movement tasks, and analyse all of these variables simultaneously to obtain globally important distinguishing features. To this end, a novel distance metric between pairs of motion sequences was used to construct distance matrices. Analyses were carried out directly on these distance matrices. Methods and Results. 20 controls (age: 28 ± 7.6, 10 female) and 20 chronic LBP subjects (age: 41 ± 10.7, 4 female) were recruited. Kinematic data were obtained whilst subjects stood from sitting (‘STS’), picking up (‘Picking’) and lowering (‘Lowering’) a 5kg box, and walking (right (‘WalkRight’) and left sides (‘WalkLeft’)). For each task, permutation tests for group differences were carried out, based on the pseudo-F statistic calculated from the distance matrices. A similar approach was used to identify local differences at time points and joints. Group mean motion sequences were compared using a custom OpenSim model. Significant differences were obtained for STS (pseudo-F=2.8, p=0.017), WalkRight (pseudo-F=3.27, p=0.008) and WalkLeft (pseudo-F=3.39, p=0.005). Conclusion. Comparisons of movement tasks between groups revealed significant differences for STS and walking. Visualisation of group mean motion sequences, and local analyses assisted in the detailed understanding of these differences. This provides a visually intuitive means of studying complex motion differences between groups, without prior assumptions regarding which variables are important. No conflicts of interest. No funding. Original study funded by Arthritis Research UK MRC (Medical Research Council) Centre for Musculoskeletal Health and Work

Purpose and Background:. Healthy adults with a curvy (lordotic) lumbar spine were shown to lift a load from the floor by stooping, while straight (flat) spines squatted. Since skin-surface motion capture often misrepresents internal curvature this study calculated internal lumbar curvature during lifting in the same cohort and compared lumbosacral motion. Methods:. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed in standing and bending forward to 30, 45 and 60°, with markers on the skin at L1, L3, L5 and S1. Lumbar spine shape was characterised using statistical shape modelling and participants grouped into ‘curvy’ and ‘straight’ spine sub-groups (N=8). On a separate day participants lifted a box (6–15 kg) from the floor without instruction while Vicon cameras tracked sagittal movement of L1, L3 and L5 skin markers. Sacral angle (to horizontal) was calculated from pelvic markers. Matching markers during MRI and lifting sessions allowed vertebral centroid positions (L1, L3, L5, S1) during lifting to be calculated using custom MATLAB code. Results:. The curvy group had more internal lumbar lordosis at pick up despite stooping to lift the load. From upright standing motion occurred earlier at the upper lumbar levels (L1–L3) compared with lower lumbar (L3–L5). During lifting straight spines had greater rigid-body motion of the entire lumbar spine compared with curvy spines who demonstrated more varied intersegmental motion with greater sacral flexion. Conclusion:. Individuals with very lordotic spines retained some degree of internal lordosis despite stooping when lifting. The lumbar spine appears more mobile at the upper levels, L1–L3, and constrained motion was seen in those with the least lordosis

Purpose and background. Identifying features in nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) subjects that distinguish them from controls, or for elucidating subgroups, has proved elusive. Yet these would be helpful to monitor progress, improve management, and understand the nature of the condition. Previous work using quantitative videofluoroscopy (QF) has indicated that the distribution of motion between lumbar intervertebral joints is more uneven in those with a history of NSLBP. However, there maybe other features of these complex motion patterns yet to be revealed. A multivariate analysis was therefore carried out to explore other possible differences. Methods and results. Intervertebral motion data of L2/3 to L4/5, from a previously published study was used. This examined 40 patients with NSLBP and 40 healthy controls, matched for gender, age and body mass index, who underwent passive recumbent QF in the coronal and sagittal planes. For each motion direction, principal components analysis was carried out and salient dimensions selected. Using a lower dimensional principal components (PC) representation, groups were compared using Hoteling's T test. Linear and quadratic discriminant analysis (LDA and QDA) was carried out using PC representations to examine group differences. The features most clearly distinguishing groups from the LDA was examined graphically. An analysis of the sensitivity of the results to the number of PC dimensions was carried out. The performance of the LDA and QDA classifiers were examined using leave-one-out cross-validation. Conclusions. Hotelling tests revealed significant differences between groups for right and left side-bending. This was confirmed by LDA and QDA. There was no clear difference in the performance of these classifiers and performance did not improve by including more than 4 PC dimensions. Visualisation of the LDA indicated that patients had relatively lower amplitude motion at L4/5, compensated by higher amplitude at L2/3/4. These results point to additional features of lumbar motion that differentiates NSLBP. No conflicts of interest. No funding obtained (however, the original study was funded by NIHR - CATCDRF09)

Purpose and Background:. To compare static and dynamic lumbar intervertebral ranges of motion (IV-RoM) in patients with chronic, nonspecific low back pain with upper and lower cut off values derived from healthy controls when variability and measurement errors were reduced. Measurements from functional radiographs suffer from high variability and measurement errors, making cut off values for excessive or insufficient motion problematical. This study compared maximum lumbar IV-RoM and maximum IV-RoM at any point in continuous motion sequences in patients with chronic, non-specific back pain with upper and lower cut off values for L2 to L5 from matched controls using quantitative fluoroscopy, where variation and measurement errors were reduced. Methods and Results:. Participants underwent passive recumbent examinations in the sagittal and coronal planes. Values based on were developed for both maximum and continuous motion in controls (n=40). Fishers exact test was used to analyse proportions of patients whose IV-RoMs exceeded reference values. For maximum IV-RoM in patients, there were no statistically significant differences between groups for the lower value. Only flexion at L4/5 significantly exceeded the upper value (p=0.03). For continuous IV-RoM, left L3/4 (p=0.01) and right L4/5 (p=0.01) were significantly below the lower cut off values. Both flexion L4/5 (p=0.05) and left L3/4 (p=0.01) were significantly above the upper cut off values. Conclusions:. Controlling variability and reducing errors allowed meaningful upper and lower cut off values to be produced for both static and dynamic IV-RoM and may lead to better treatment decisions for those with suspected inter-vertebral stiffness or hypermobility

Advisors. PhD J Hartvigsen, PhD P Aagaard, University of Southern Denmark. PhD G Br⊘nfort, Northwestern Health Sciences University, Minneapolis, MN, USA and NIKKB. PhD G Kawchuk, Canada Research Chair in Spinal Function, University of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. PhD A Breen, Institute for muscoloskeletal research & clinical implementation, Bournemouth, England. PhD J Rasmussen, Institut for Maskinteknik og Anybody Group, Aalborg Universitet. Introduction. The overall issue of this project is to investigate the relationship between the lumbar spinal biomechanics, patient's pain and physiological effects of traditional conservative treatments. Background. Biomechanical factors such as ranges, patterns and quality of motion in the lumbar spine are thought to be important contributors to many varieties of LBP. Furthermore, commonly used treatments for spine pain such as exercises, training, and various manual treatments such as manipulation are thought to alter biomechanical factors and thereby facilitating return to “normal” function and thus a pain free state. Method. A systematic critical literature review in order to determine the current reproducibility level for measuring 3D regional lumbar spinal motion with various methods and based on the review propose an agenda for future research. Develop of a model to analyze the dynamic non-invasive computerized regional motion data. In this model the complex motion data will be reduced to a manageable size with each movement parameter consisting of individual figures. The data reduction will be done in a developed MATLAB program and the analysis of the reduced data will be handled in STATA. Use collected data from randomized clinical trials (research center at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Minnesota, USA) on the developed model in a reproducibility study and an intervention study

Background and purpose. Investigating inter-vertebral biomechanics in vivo using end-of-range imaging is difficult due to high intra subject variation, measurement errors and insufficient data. Quantitative fluoroscopy (QF) can reliably measure continuous motion but may suffer from contamination from uncontrolled loading and muscle contraction which compromises comparisons between studies and limits interpretation of results. This study presents the methods used to overcome these limitations. Methods and results. Forty chronic, non-specific low back pain (CNSLPB) patients and 40 matched controls underwent QF using a passive recumbent protocol which standardised the rate and range of trunk rotation, thus reducing intra-subject variation and excluding loading and muscle contraction factors. Left, right, flexion and extension were recorded from L2-5 and vertebral motion registered using image processing algorithms, Resultant continuous inter-vertebral rotation data were normalised to produce proportional contributions of each segment throughout the trunk bend. The expected continuous proportional contributions at each level and direction were determined by calculating reference intervals (mean +/− 2SD) from controls. Prevalence of patients exceeding these ranges was determined and the association with CNSLBP calculated using Chi-squared analysis. Additionally the variance of the normalised data throughout the continuous motion for each direction was determined and summed to produce an combined number. This was used to measure the difference between patients and controls and entered into ROC curve analysis to investigate discrimination between patients and controls. Conclusion. A methodology for assessment of the differences between the continuous in vivo spine kinematics of CNSLBP patients and healthy controls has been developed and will be presented

Spinal Biomechanics Lab, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA. Documenting the patterns and frequency of collapse in non-operatively managed spine fractures, using a motion analysis software. Retrospective analysis of prospective case series. 105 patients with thoracic or lumbar fractures, were neurologically intact, and treated non-operatively for the ‘stable’ injury at our unit between June 2003 and May 2006. The mean age of the cohort was 46.9 yrs. Serial radiographs (mean 4 radiographs/patient; range 2 – 9) were analysed using motion analysis software for collapse at the fracture site. We defined collapse as a reduction of anterior or posterior vertebral body height greater than 15% of the endplate AP width, or a change in the angle between the inferior and superior endplates > 5°. The changes were assessed on serial radiographs performed at a mean of 5.6 mo (95% CI 4.1 – 7.1 mo) after the initial injury. 11% showed anterior collapse, 7.6% had posterior collapse, 14% had collapse apparent as vertebral body wedging, and 17% had any form of collapse. ODI scores were obtained in 35 patients at the time of the last available radiograph. There were no significant differences in ODI scores that could be associated with the presence of any form of collapse (p > 0.8 for anterior collapse; and p = 0.18 for posterior collapse). This pilot study with the motion analysis software demonstrates that some fractures are more likely to collapse with time. We hope to carry this work forward by way of a prospective study with a control on other variables that are likely to affect the pattern and probability of post-fracture collapse, including age, bone density, vertebral level, activity level, fracture type

Introduction. Low back pain (LBP) is the top leading global cause of years lived with disability. In order to examine LBP, researchers have typically viewed the spine in isolation. Clinically, it is imperative that the lower limbs are also considered. The aim of this study was to design a holistic and reliable multi-segmental kinematic model of the spine and lower limbs. Method. The spine was modelled according to easily identifiable anatomical landmarks, including upper thoracic (T1-T6), lower thoracic (T7-T12) and lumbar (L1-L5) segments. Pelvis, thigh, shank and foot segments were included. A 10-camera 3D motion capture system was used to track retro-reflective markers, which were used to define each segment of 10 healthy participants as they walked 3 times at a comfortable speed over a 6km walkway. The relative peak angles between each segment were calculated using the Joint Coordinate System convention and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICCs) were used to determine intra-rater and inter-rater reliability (between an experienced clinician and biomechanical scientist). Results. Intra-rater and inter-rater ICCs were good to excellent (0.6–0.99). This implies that the system could be used reliably by one tester or by testers with limited anatomical expertise. Subjective participant reports implied that the system was acceptable and suitable for patient use (average application time of 10 minutes). Conclusion. The ‘Imperial Spinal Model’ is a holistic and reliable multi-segmental model. It is suitable for the kinematic assessment of the spine and could be used to enhance our understanding of a variety of spinal conditions. No conflicts of interest. Funding: Janet Deane is funded by an Allied Health Professional Doctoral Fellowship awarded by Arthritis Research U.K. (ARUK). Enrica Papi is funded by the National Centre of Excellence for Musculoskeletal Health and Work funded by ARUK and the Medical Research Council

Purpose and Background. Leg length discrepancy (LLD) occurs commonly and has been associated with osteoarthritis of the knee and the hip joints. However, the possible association between LLD and degenerative changes in the lumbar spine has not been investigated. Here we correlate the degree of LLD with degenerative changes in the hip joints and the lumbar spine. Methods and Results. A modification of Friberg's method was used to measure LLD and a novel method was devised to exclude magnification errors in standing radiographs of the lumbopelvic region. 5mm of LLD was considered significant. 75 sets (36 female and 39 male) of radiographs from adult patients presenting to chiropractic teaching clinics were used. Degenerative changes at hip and L4/5 and L5/S1 disc spaces were graded on a 4-point scale. Hip degeneration in men with significant LLD was [mean, 95% confidence interval] [1.35, 1.05–1.66], as opposed to men with no significant LLD [0.31, 0.1–0.53]. Degenerative changes at the L5/S1 spinal level in the group with significant LLD demonstrated values of [1.04, 0.75–1.33], compared to the group without significant LLD with values of [0.41, 0.22–0.61]. The association between LLD and lumbar degeneration was particularly strong in men and also in women at or above the age of 25. Conclusion. Here we demonstrate that LLD of 5mm or above, as measured by our method, is associated with significant degenerative changes in the hip joint in men and the L5/S1 motion segment in both men and women, but may be more significant in older women. This abstract has not been previously published in whole or substantial part nor has it been presented previously at a national meeting

Objective. To compare the effectiveness of the Aspen, Aspen Vista, Philadelphia, Miami-J and Miami-J Advanced collars at restricting cervical spine movement in the sagittal, coronal and axial planes. Methods. Nineteen healthy volunteers (12 female, 7 male) were recruited to the study. Collars were fitted by an approved physiotherapist. Eight ProReflex (Qualisys, Sweden) infra-red cameras were used to track the movement of retro reflective marker clusters placed in predetermined positions on the head and trunk. 3D kinematic data was collected during forward flexion, extension, lateral bending and axial rotation from uncollared and collared subjects. The physiological range of motion in the three planes was analysed using the Qualisys Track Manager system. Results. The Aspen and Philadelphia collars were found to be significantly more effective at restricting movement in the sagittal plane compared to the Vista (p<0.001), Miami-J (p<0.001 and p<0.01) and Miami-J Advanced (p<0.01 and p<0.05) collars. The Aspen collar was significantly more effective at restricting axial rotation than the Vista (p<0.001) and the Miami-J (p<0.05) collars. The Aspen, Philadelphia, Miami-J and Miami-J Advanced collars were comparable at restricting lateral bending but the Vista was significantly less effective than all the collars at restricting movement in this plane. Conclusion. The Aspen collar was found to be superior to the other collars when measuring restriction of movement of the cervical spine in all planes, particularly the sagittal and transverse planes, while the Aspen Vista was the least effective collar

We have measured the dynamic movement of the lumbar spine in 57 patients with degenerative lumbar disc disease. Each completed a questionnaire which recorded pain and subjective signs and symptoms. From plain lateral radiographs, the subjects were graded using the criteria of Kellgren and Lawrence and those of Lane et al, which are both based on the severity of degenerative changes. Measurements of the height of the disc space and the vertebral height were obtained and expressed as a ratio.

We found no relationship between the characteristics of spinal movement and the overall grading of degenerative disc disease with either system. Both were influenced (p < 0.01) by age, walking distance, severity of symptoms, drug intake and frequency of pain. The present systems for grading degenerative disc disease from plain lateral radiographs have limited application.

To assess the clinical and radiological outcome of single and multiple level Anterior Cervical Disc Replacement (ACDR) using Peek-on-peek system. We present the largest series of POPCDR at a single centre.

Thirty-one patients with radiculopathy and/or myelopathy caused by disc generation who did not respond to conservative treatments were included. Pain and function were evaluated by VAS (Visual Analogue Score) for neck (VAS-NP) and arm pain (VAS-AP). Neck disability index (NDI) and SF-36 questionnaires were completed. Disc height and segmental angular correction (SAC) were measured on radiographs pre- and postoperatively.

Seven patients had one-level, fifteen had two-level, seven had three-level and two had four-level ACDR. Sixty-six discs were replaced. Average follow-up was six months.

Mean VAS-NP improved from 7.27 to 3.93 and VAS-AP from 7.27 to 3.4. Mean SF-36 improved from 32.21 to 40.22. There was functional improvement for NDI in all patients.

There was an improvement in SAC from 5.4^° to 8.0^° for one-level, 3.1^° to 7.5^° for two level, 8.4^° to 9.4^° for three-level and 5.8^° to 26.7^° for four-level ACDR.

Post-operative anterior disc height increased by 152% for lower and 55% for higher levels. Similar improvements were noted for posterior disc heights.

Early results show that POPCDR is safe and effective for treatment of symptomatic cervical disc disease. The clinical and radiological outcomes are similar to other types of ACDR reported in literature. POPCDR also allows safe use of MRI during follow-up with fewer artifacts giving it an edge over other systems.

Background

We present the results of a single centre, prospective study to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of anterior cervical decompression and replacement (ACDR) using the NuNec(tm) Cervical Arthroplasty System (Pioneer Surgical Technology, Marquette, Mich., USA).

Aims. The optimal procedure for the treatment of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of anterior cervical ossified posterior longitudinal ligament en bloc resection (ACOE) with posterior laminectomy and fusion with bone graft and internal fixation (PTLF) for the surgical management of patients with this condition. Methods. Between July 2017 and July 2019, 40 patients with cervical OPLL were equally randomized to undergo surgery with an ACOE or a PTLF. The clinical and radiological results were compared between the two groups. Results. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and recovery rate in the ACOE group were significantly higher than those in the PTLF group during two years postoperatively, provided that the canal occupying ratio (COR) was > 50%, or the K-line was negative. There was no significant difference in JOA scores and rate of recovery between the two groups in those in whom the COR was < 50%, or the K-line was positive. There was no significant difference in the Cobb angle between C2 and C7, sagittal vertical axis, cervical range of motion (ROM), and complications between the two groups. Conclusion. Compared with PTLF, ACOE is a preferred surgical approach for the surgical management of patients with cervical OPLL in that it offers a better therapeutic outcome when the COR is > 50%, or the K-line is negative, and it also preserves better cervical curvature and sagittal balance. The prognosis of ACOE is similar to that of PTLE when the COR is < 50%, or the K-line is positive. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(4):412–421

Objectives. Understanding lumbar facet joint involvement and biomechanical changes post spinal fusion is limited. This study aimed to establish an in vitro model assessing mechanical effects of fusion on human lumbar facet joints, employing synchronized motion, pressure, and stiffness analysis. Methods and Results. Seven human lumbar spinal units (age 54 to 92, ethics 15/YH/0096) underwent fusion via a partial nucleotomy model mimicking a lateral cage approach with PMMA cement injection. Mechanical testing pre and post-fusion included measuring compressive displacement and load, local motion capture, and pressure mapping at the facet joints. pQCT imaging (82 microns isotropic) was carried out at each stage to assess the integrity of the vertebral endplates and quantify the amount of cement injected. Before fusion, relative facet joint displacement (6.5 ± 4.1 mm) at maximum load (1.1 kN) exceeded crosshead displacement (3.9 ± 1.5 mm), with loads transferred across both facet joints. After fusion, facet displacement (2.0 ± 1.2 mm) reduced compared to pre-fusion, as was the crosshead displacement (2.2 ± 0.6 mm). Post-fusion loads (71.4 ± 73.2 N) transferred were reduced compared to pre-fusion levels (194.5 ± 125.4 N). Analysis of CT images showed no endplate damage post-fusion, whilst the IVD tissue: cement volume ratio did not correlate with the post-fusion behaviour of the specimens. Conclusion. An in vitro model showed significant facet movement reduction with stand-alone interbody cage placement. This technique identifies changes in facet movement post-fusion, potentially contributing to subsequent spinal degeneration, highlighting its utility in biomechanical assessment. Conflicts of interest. None. Sources of funding. This work was funded by EPSRC, under grant EP/W015617/1