Aims. Degenerative cervical spondylosis (DCS) is a common musculoskeletal disease that encompasses a wide range of progressive degenerative changes and affects all components of the cervical spine. DCS imposes very large social and economic burdens. However, its genetic basis remains elusive. Methods. Predicted whole-blood and skeletal muscle gene expression and genome-wide association study (GWAS) data from a DCS database were integrated, and functional summary-based imputation (FUSION) software was used on the integrated data. A transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) was conducted using FUSION software to assess the association between predicted gene expression and DCS risk. The TWAS-identified genes were verified via comparison with differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in DCS RNA expression profiles in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) (Accession Number: GSE153761). The Functional Mapping and Annotation (FUMA) tool for genome-wide association studies and Meta tools were used for gene functional enrichment and annotation analysis. Results. The TWAS detected 420 DCS genes with p < 0.05 in skeletal muscle, such as ribosomal protein S15A (RPS15A) (PTWAS = 0.001), and 110 genes in whole blood, such as selectin L (SELL) (PTWAS = 0.001). Comparison with the DCS RNA expression profile identified 12 common genes, including Apelin Receptor (APLNR) (PTWAS = 0.001, PDEG = 0.025). In total, 148 DCS-enriched Gene Ontology (GO) terms were identified, such as mast cell degranulation (GO:0043303); 15 DCS-enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were identified, such as the sphingolipid signalling pathway (ko04071). Nine terms, such as degradation of the extracellular matrix (R-HSA-1474228), were common to the TWAS enrichment results and the RNA expression profile. Conclusion. Our results identify putative susceptibility genes; these findings provide new ideas for exploration of the genetic mechanism of DCS development and new targets for preclinical intervention and clinical treatment. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(1):80–90

Aims. In this investigation, we administered oxidative stress to nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), recognized DNA-damage-inducible transcript 4 (DDIT4) as a component in intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), and devised a hydrogel capable of conveying small interfering RNA (siRNA) to IVDD. Methods. An in vitro model for oxidative stress-induced injury in NPCs was developed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the upregulation of DDIT4 expression, activation of the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP)-NLRP3 signalling pathway, and nucleus pulposus pyroptosis. Furthermore, the mechanism of action of small interfering DDIT4 (siDDIT4) on NPCs in vitro was validated. A triplex hydrogel named siDDIT4@G5-P-HA was created by adsorbing siDDIT4 onto fifth-generation polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer using van der Waals interactions, and then coating it with hyaluronic acid (HA). In addition, we established a rat puncture IVDD model to decipher the hydrogel’s mechanism in IVDD. Results. A correlation between DDIT4 expression levels and disc degeneration was shown with human nucleus pulposus and needle-punctured rat disc specimens. We confirmed that DDIT4 was responsible for activating the ROS-TXNIP-NLRP3 axis during oxidative stress-induced pyroptosis in rat nucleus pulposus in vitro. Mitochondria were damaged during oxidative stress, and DDIT4 contributed to mitochondrial damage and ROS production. In addition, siDDIT4@G5-P-HA hydrogels showed good delivery activity of siDDIT4 to NPCs. In vitro studies illustrated the potential of the siDDIT4@G5-P-HA hydrogel for alleviating IVDD in rats. Conclusion. DDIT4 is a key player in mediating pyroptosis and IVDD in NPCs through the ROS-TXNIP-NLRP3 axis. Additionally, siDDIT4@G5-P-HA hydrogel has been found to relieve IVDD in rats. Our research offers an innovative treatment option for IVDD. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(5):247–260

Aims. Psychoeducative prehabilitation to optimize surgical outcomes is relatively novel in spinal fusion surgery and, like most rehabilitation treatments, they are rarely well specified. Spinal fusion patients experience anxieties perioperatively about pain and immobility, which might prolong hospital length of stay (LOS). The aim of this prospective cohort study was to determine if a Preoperative Spinal Education (POSE) programme, specified using the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System (RTSS) and designed to normalize expectations and reduce anxieties, was safe and reduced LOS. Methods. POSE was offered to 150 prospective patients over ten months (December 2018 to November 2019) Some chose to attend (Attend-POSE) and some did not attend (DNA-POSE). A third independent retrospective group of 150 patients (mean age 57.9 years (SD 14.8), 50.6% female) received surgery prior to POSE (pre-POSE). POSE consisted of an in-person 60-minute education with accompanying literature, specified using the RTSS as psychoeducative treatment components designed to optimize cognitive/affective representations of thoughts/feelings, and normalize anxieties about surgery and its aftermath. Across-group age, sex, median LOS, perioperative complications, and readmission rates were assessed using appropriate statistical tests. Results. In all, 65 (43%) patients (mean age 57.4 years (SD 18.2), 58.8% female) comprised the Attend-POSE, and 85 (57%) DNA-POSE (mean age 54.9 years (SD 15.8), 65.8% female). There were no significant between-group differences in age, sex, surgery type, complications, or readmission rates. Median LOS was statistically different across Pre-POSE (5 days ((interquartile range (IQR) 3 to 7)), Attend-POSE (3 (2 to 5)), and DNA-POSE (4 (3 to 7)), (p = 0.014). Pairwise comparisons showed statistically significant differences between Pre-POSE and Attend-POSE LOS (p = 0.011), but not between any other group comparison. In the Attend-POSE group, there was significant change toward greater surgical preparation, procedural familiarity, and less anxiety. Conclusion. POSE was associated with a significant reduction in LOS for patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery. Patients reported being better prepared for, more familiar, and less anxious about their surgery. POSE did not affect complication or readmission rates, meaning its inclusion was safe. However, uptake (43%) was disappointing and future work should explore potential barriers and challenges to attending POSE. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(2):135–144

Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of coccygectomy in patients with persistent coccydynia and coccygeal instability. Methods. The Danish National Spine Registry, DaneSpine, was used to identify 134 consecutive patients who underwent surgery, performed by a single surgeon between 2011 and 2019. Routine demographic data, surgical variables, and patient-reported outcomes, including a visual analogue scale (VAS) (0 to 100) for pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D), and the Physical Component Score (PCS) and Mental Component Score (MCS) of the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) were collected at baseline and one-year postoperatively. Results. A total of 112 (84%) patients with a minimum follow-up of one year had data available for analysis. Their mean age was 41.9 years, and 15 (13%) were males. At 12 months postoperatively, there were statistically significant improvements (p < 0.001) from baseline for the mean VAS for pain (70.99 to 35.34), EQ-5D (0.52 to 0.75), ODI (31.84 to 18.00), and SF-36 PCS (38.17 to 44.74). A total of 78 patients (70%) were satisfied with the outcome of treatment. Conclusion. Patients with persistent coccydynia and coccygeal instability resistant to nonoperative treatment may benefit from coccygectomy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(3):542–546

Aims

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a common skeletal system disease that has been partly attributed to genetic variation. However, the correlation between genetic variation and pathological changes in LSS is insufficient, and it is difficult to provide a reference for the early diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Aims

This study aimed, through bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiment validation, to identify the key extracellular proteins of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD).

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the type of cervical disc herniation influences the severity of symptoms at the time of presentation, and the outcome after surgical treatment.

Aims

We compared decompression alone to decompression with fusion surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis, with or without degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS). The aim was to evaluate if five-year outcomes differed between the groups. The two-year results from the same trial revealed no differences.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate rasterstereography of the spine as a diagnostic test for adolescent idiopathic soliosis (AIS), and to compare its results with those obtained using a scoliometer.

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of pedicle screw placement, as well as intraoperative factors, radiation exposure, and complication rates in adult patients with degenerative disorders of the thoracic and lumbar spines who have undergone robotic-navigated spinal surgery using a contemporary system.

Aims

Postoperative complication rates remain relatively high after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. The extent to which modifiable patient-related factors influence complication rates in patients with ASD has not been effectively evaluated. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the association between modifiable patient-related factors and complications after corrective surgery for ASD.

Aims. The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk of additional surgery in the lumbar spine and to describe long-term changes in patient-reported outcomes after surgery for lumbar disc herniation in adolescents and young adults. Patients and Methods. We conducted a retrospective study design on prospectively collected data from a national quality register. The 4537 patients were divided into two groups: adolescents (≤ 18 years old, n = 151) and young adults (19 to 39 years old, n = 4386). The risk of additional lumbar spine surgery was surveyed for a mean of 11.4 years (6.0 to 19.3) in all 4537 patients. Long-term patient-reported outcomes were available at a mean of 7.2 years (5.0 to 10.0) in up to 2716 patients and included satisfaction, global assessment for leg and back pain, Oswestry Disability Index, visual analogue scale for leg and back pain, EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D), and 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) Mental Component Summary and Physical Component Summary scores. Statistical analyses were performed with Cox proportional hazard regression, chi-squared test, McNemar’s test, Welch–Satterthwaite t-test, and Wilcoxon’s signed-rank test. Results. Any type of additional lumbar spine surgery was seen in 796 patients (18%). Surgery for lumbar disc herniation accounted for more than half of the additional surgeries. The risk of any additional surgery was 0.9 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.6 to 1.4) and the risk of additional lumbar disc herniation surgery was 1.0 (0.6 to 1.7) in adolescents compared with the young adult group. Both age groups improved their patient-reported outcome data after surgery (all p < 0.001). Changes between short- (mean 1.9 years (1.0 to 2.0)) and long-term follow-up (mean 7.2 years (5.0 to 10.0)) were small. Conclusion. The risk of any additional lumbar spine surgery and additional lumbar disc herniation surgery was similar in adolescents and young adults. All patient-reported outcomes improved from preoperative to the short-term follow-up, while no likely clinically important differences between the short- and long-term follow-up were seen within both groups. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1534–1541

Abstract

MAGnetic Expansion Control (MAGEC) rods are used in the surgical treatment of children with early onset scoliosis. The magnetically controlled lengthening mechanism enables rod distractions without the need for repeated invasive surgery. The CE certification of these devices was suspended in March 2021 due, primarily, to performance evidence gaps in the documents provided by the manufacturer to regulators and notified bodies. MAGEC rods are therefore not permitted for use in countries requiring CE marking. This was a survey of 18 MAGEC rod surgeons in the UK about their perception of the impact of the CE suspension on the clinical management of their patients. Unsurprisingly, virtually all perceived a negative impact, reflecting the complexity of this patient group. Reassuringly, these surgeons are highly experienced in alternative treatment methods.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(2):155–157.

Aims

The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with poor outcome following coccygectomy on patients with chronic coccydynia and instability of the coccyx.

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine if positive Waddell signs were related to patients’ demographics or to perception of their quality of life. Patients and Methods. This prospective cross-sectional study included 479 adult patients with back pain from a university spine centre. Each completed SF-12 and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaires and underwent standard spinal examinations to elicit Waddell signs. The relationship between Waddell signs and age, gender, ODI, Mental Component Score (MCS), and Physical Component Score (PCS) scores was determined. Results. Of the 479 patients, 128 (27%) had at least one positive Waddell sign. There were significantly more women with two or more Waddell signs than men. The proportion of patients with at least one positive Waddell sign increased with age until 55 years, and then declined rapidly; none had a positive sign over the age of 75 years. Functional outcome scores were significantly worse in those with a single Waddell sign (p < 0.01). With one or more Waddell signs, patients’ PCS and ODI scores indicated a perception of severe disability; with three or more Waddell signs, patients’ MCS scores indicated severe disability. With five Waddell signs, ODI scores indicated that patients perceived themselves as crippled. Conclusion. Positive Waddell signs, a potential indicator of central sensitization, indicated a likelihood of having functional limitations and an impaired quality of life, particularly in young women. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:219–25

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an increased prevalence of scoliosis in patients who have suffered from a haematopoietic malignancy in childhood.

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the reliability of using MRI scans to calculate the Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS) in patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC).

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of repeat epidural steroid injections as a form of treatment for patients with insufficiently controlled or recurrent radicular pain due to a lumbar or cervical disc herniation. Patients and Methods. A cohort of 102 patients was prospectively followed, after an epidural steroid injection for radicular symptoms due to lumbar disc herniation, in 57 patients, and cervical disc herniation, in 45 patients. Those patients with persistent pain who requested a second injection were prospectively followed for one year. Radicular and local pain were assessed on a visual analogue scale (VAS), functional outcome with the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) or the Neck Pain and Disability Index (NPAD), as well as health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-12). Results. A second injection was performed in 17 patients (29.8%) with lumbar herniation and seven (15.6%) with cervical herniation at a mean of 65.3 days . (sd. 46.5) and 47 days . (sd. 37.2), respectively, after the initial injection. All but one patient, who underwent lumbar microdiscectomy, responded satisfactorily with a mean VAS for leg pain of 8.8 mm . (sd. 10.3) and a mean VAS for arm pain of 6.3 mm . (. sd. 9) one year after the second injection, respectively. Similarly, functional outcome and HRQoL were improved significantly from the baseline scores: mean ODI, 12.3 (. sd. 12.4; p < 0.001); mean NPAD, 19.3 (. sd. 24.3; p = 0.041); mean SF-12 physical component summary (PCS) in lumbar herniation, 46.8 (. sd. 7.7; p < 0.001); mean SF-12 PCS in cervical herniation, 43 (. sd. 6.8; p = 0.103). Conclusion. Repeat steroid injections are a justifiable form of treatment in symptomatic patients with lumbar or cervical disc herniation whose symptoms are not satisfactorily relieved after the first injection. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1364–71

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the differences in spinal imaging characteristics between subjects with or without lumbar developmental spinal stenosis (DSS) in a population-based cohort.

Aims

To study the associations of lumbar developmental spinal stenosis (DSS) with low back pain (LBP), radicular leg pain, and disability.

Aims

To investigate metallosis in patients with magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGRs) and characterize the metal particle profile of the tissues surrounding the rod.

Aims. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the outcomes of coccygectomy for patients with chronic coccydynia. . Patients and Methods. Between 2007 and 2011, 98 patients underwent coccygectomy for chronic coccydynia. The patients were aged > 18 years, had coccygeal pain, local tenderness and a radiological abnormality, and had failed conservative management. Outcome measures were the Short Form 36 (SF-36), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Secondary analysis compared the pre-operative features and the outcomes of patients with successful and failed treatment, two years post-operatively. The threshold for success was based on a minimum clinically important difference (MCID) on the ODI of 20 points. All other patients, including those lost to follow-up, were classified as failures. Results. There was significant improvement in all ten components of the SF-36 (p < 0.05), the ODI (23 points) and VAS (39 points) (p < 0.0001). A total of 69 patients (70.4%) met the designated MCID threshold for a successful outcome. The failure group consisted of 25 patients (25.5%) who did not reach the MCID and four (4.1%) who were lost to follow-up. Six patients (6.1%) in the failure group had ODI scores that were no better or worse than that pre-operatively. The patients in whom treatment failed had significantly worse pre-operative scores for the ODI (p = 0.04), VAS (p = 0.02) and on five of ten SF-36 components (p < 0.04). They also had a higher incidence of psychiatric disorders, pre-operative opiate use and more than three comorbidities. . Take home message: Coccygectomy for chronic coccydynia results in significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes at two years. Failure is associated with certain pre-operative characteristics such as psychiatric illness, poor quality of life features, higher levels of pain, and use of opiates. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:526–33

Aims

To determine the effectiveness of prone traction radiographs in predicting postoperative slip distance, slip angle, changes in disc height, and lordosis after surgery for degenerative spondylolisthesis of the lumbar spine.

Aims

To evaluate the histopathological examination of peri-implant tissue samples as a technique in the diagnosis of postoperative spinal implant infection (PSII).

Aims. There is a paucity of information on the pre-operative coronal imbalance in patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) and its influence on surgical outcomes. Patients and Methods. A total of 284 DLS patients were recruited into this study, among whom 69 patients were treated surgically and the remaining 215 patients conservatively Patients were classified based on the coronal balance distance (CBD): Type A, CBD < 3 cm; Type B, CBD > 3 cm and C7 Plumb Line (C7PL) shifted to the concave side of the curve; Type C, CBD > 3 cm and C7PL shifted to the convex side. Results. A total of 99 of the 284 (34.8%) patient presented with a pre-operative coronal imbalance (mean CBD: 48.5, standard deviation 18.7 mm). More patients with a Type B malalignment were observed than with a Type C malalignment (62 versus 37). A total of 21 pf the 69 (30.4%) surgically treated patients had a post-operative coronal imbalance, which was found to be more prevalent in Type C patients (p < 0.001). At follow-up, less improvement was observed in terms of Short Form-36 Physical Component Score and visual analogue score for back pain (p = 0.034 and 0.025, respectively) in Type C patients. Conclusion. This study shows that patients with Type C coronal malalignment may be at greater risk of post-operative coronal imbalance following posterior osteotomy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1227–33

Aims

Chronic low back pain due to degenerative disc disease is sometimes treated with fusion. We compared the outcome of three different fusion techniques in the Swedish Spine Register: noninstrumented posterolateral fusion (PLF), instrumented posterolateral fusion (IPLF), and interbody fusion (IBF).

Aims

Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common spinal deformity in adolescents and children. The aetiology of the disease remains unknown. Previous studies have shown a lower bone mineral density in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis, which may contribute to the causation. The aim of the present study was to compare bone health in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis with controls.

With the identification of literature shortfalls on the techniques employed in intraoperative navigated (ION) spinal surgery, we outline a number of measures which have been synthesised into a coherent operative technique. These include positioning, dissection, management of the reference frame, the grip, the angle of attack, the drill, the template, the pedicle screw, the wire, and navigated intrathecal analgesia. Optimizing techniques to improve accuracy allow an overall reduction of the repetition of the surgical steps with its associated productivity benefits including time, cost, radiation, and safety.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(3):371–375.

Aims

Intraoperative 3D navigation (ION) allows high accuracy to be achieved in spinal surgery, but poor workflow has prevented its widespread uptake. The technical demands on ION when used in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) are higher than for other more established indications. Lean principles have been applied to industry and to health care with good effects. While ensuring optimal accuracy of instrumentation and safety, the implementation of ION and its associated productivity was evaluated in this study for AIS surgery in order to enhance the workflow of this technique. The aim was to optimize the use of ION by the application of lean principles in AIS surgery.

We studied prospectively 22 young athletes who had undergone surgical treatment for lumbar spondylolysis. There were 15 men and seven women with a mean age of 20.2 years (15 to 34). Of these, 13 were professional footballers, four professional cricketers, three hockey players, one a tennis player and one a golfer. Preoperative assessment included plain radiography, single positron-emission CT, planar bone scanning and reverse-gantry CT. In all patients the Oswestry disability index (ODI) and in 19 the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) scores were determined preoperatively, and both were measured again after two years in all patients. Three patients had a Scott’s fusion and 19 a Buck’s fusion. The mean duration of back pain before surgery was 9.4 months (6 to 36). The mean size of the defect as determined by CT was 3.5 mm (1 to 8) and the mean preoperative and postoperative ODIs were 39.5 (. sd. 8.7) and 10.7 (. sd. 12.9), respectively. The mean scores for the physical component of the SF-36 improved from 27.1 (. sd. 5.1) to 47.8 (. sd. 7.7). The mean scores for the mental health component of the SF-36 improved from 39.0 (. sd. 3.9) to 55.4 (. sd. 6.3) with p < 0.001. After rehabilitation for a mean of seven months (4 to 10) 18 patients (82%) returned to their previous sporting activity

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.

Aims

We present the results of correcting a double or triple curve adolescent idiopathic scoliosis using a convex segmental pedicle screw technique.

A four-year-old boy presented with a solitary bone cyst in the odontoid process and body of the axis. Plain radiographs showed a radiolucent lesion with extreme thinning of the cortex and MRI demonstrated a high signal intensity in the interlesional matrix. The cystic component extended into the body of the axis through a defect in the epiphyseal plate. At operation, the cavity of the cyst was found to contain serosanguineous fluid, and histological examination showed that it was lined by a thin layer of connective tissue. The cyst may have originated from a defect in the epiphyseal plate

The afferent pathways of discogenic low-back pain have not been fully investigated. We hypothesised that this pain was transmitted mainly by sympathetic afferent fibres in the L2 nerve root, and in 33 patients we used selective local anaesthesia of this nerve. Low-back pain disappeared or significantly decreased in all patients after the injection. Needle insertion provoked pain which radiated to the low back in 23 patients and the area of skin hypoalgesia produced included the area of pre-existing pain in all but one. None of the nine patients with related sciatica had relief of that component of their symptoms. Our findings show that the main afferent pathways of pain from the lower intervertebral discs are through the L2 spinal nerve root, presumably via sympathetic afferents from the sinuvertebral nerves. Discogenic low-back pain should be regarded as a visceral pain in respect of its neural pathways. Infiltration of the L2 nerve is a useful diagnostic test and also has some therapeutic value

Pain catastrophising is an adverse coping mechanism, involving an exaggerated response to anticipated or actual pain.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of pain ‘catastrophising’, as measured using the pain catastrophising scale (PCS), on treatment outcomes after surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).

A total of 138 patients (47 men and 91 women, mean age 65.9; 45 to 78) were assigned to low (PCS score < 25, n = 68) and high (PCS score ≥ 25, n = 70) PCS groups. The primary outcome measure was the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) 12 months after surgery. Secondary outcome measures included the ODI and visual analogue scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, which were recorded at each assessment conducted during the 12-month follow-up period

The overall changes in the ODI and VAS for back and leg pain over a 12-month period were significantly different between the groups (ODI, p < 0.001; VAS for back pain, p < 0.001; VAS for leg pain, p = 0.040). The ODI and VAS for back and leg pain significantly decreased over time after surgery in both groups (p < 0.001 for all three variables). The patterns of change in the ODI and VAS for back pain during the follow-up period significantly differed between the two groups, suggesting that the PCS group is a potential treatment moderator. However, there was no difference in the ODI and VAS for back and leg pain between the low and high PCS groups 12 months after surgery.

In terms of minimum clinically important differences in ODI scores (12.8), 22 patients (40.7%) had an unsatisfactory surgical outcome in the low PCS group and 16 (32.6%) in the high PCS group. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.539).

Pre-operative catastrophising did not always result in a poor outcome 12 months after surgery, which indicates that this could moderate the efficacy of surgery for LSS.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1546–54.

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the efficacy of bracing for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis have suffered from small sample sizes, low compliance and lack of willingness to participate. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a comprehensive cohort study for evaluating both the efficacy and the effectiveness of bracing in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Patients with curves at greater risk of progression were invited to join a randomised controlled trial. Those who declined were given the option to remain in the study and to choose whether they wished to be braced or observed. Of 87 eligible patients (5 boys and 63 girls) identified over one year, 68 (78%) with mean age of 12.5 years (10 to 15) consented to participate, with a mean follow-up of 168 weeks (0 to 290). Of these, 19 (28%) accepted randomisation. Of those who declined randomisation, 18 (37%) chose a brace. Patients who were more satisfied with their image were more likely to choose bracing (Odds Ratio 4.1; 95% confidence interval 1.1 to 15.0; p = 0.035). This comprehensive cohort study design facilitates the assessment of both efficacy and effectiveness of bracing in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which is not feasible in a conventional randomised controlled trial.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:973–81

Aims

We reviewed 34 consecutive patients (18 female-16 male) with isthmic spondylolysis and grade I to II lumbosacral spondylolisthesis who underwent in situ posterolateral arthodesis between the L5 transverse processes and the sacral ala with the use of iliac crest autograft. Ten patients had an associated scoliosis which required surgical correction at a later stage only in two patients with idiopathic curves unrelated to the spondylolisthesis.

Total en bloc spondylectomy (TES) is the total resection of a vertebra containing a tumour. Many authors have investigated patient-reported outcomes after routine spinal surgery and surgery for tumours in general. However, this is the first report of patient-reported outcomes, including health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and satisfaction, after en bloc vertebral resection for a spinal tumour.

Of the 54 patients who underwent TES for a primary tumour between 1993 and 2010, 19 died and four were lost to follow-up. In January 2012, a questionnaire was sent to the 31 surviving patients. This included the short form-36 to assess HRQoL and questions about the current condition of their disease, activities of daily living (ADL) and surgery. The response rate was high at 83.9% (26/31 patients). We found that most patients were satisfied and maintained good performance of their ADLs.

The mental health status and social roles of the HRQoL scores were nearly equivalent to those of healthy individuals, regardless of the time since surgery. There was significant impairment of physical health in the early post-operative years, but this usually returned to normal approximately three years after surgery.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1693–8.

The aim of this study was to determine whether obesity affects pain, surgical and functional outcomes following lumbar spinal fusion for low back pain (LBP).

A systematic literature review and meta-analysis was made of those studies that compared the outcome of lumbar spinal fusion for LBP in obese and non-obese patients. A total of 17 studies were included in the meta-analysis. There was no difference in the pain and functional outcomes. Lumbar spinal fusion in the obese patient resulted in a statistically significantly greater intra-operative blood loss (weighted mean difference: 54.04 ml; 95% confidence interval (CI) 15.08 to 93.00; n = 112; p = 0.007) more complications (odds ratio: 1.91; 95% CI 1.68 to 2.18; n = 43858; p < 0.001) and longer duration of surgery (25.75 mins; 95% CI 15.61 to 35.90; n = 258; p < 0.001). Obese patients have greater intra-operative blood loss, more complications and longer duration of surgery but pain and functional outcome are similar to non-obese patients. Based on these results, obesity is not a contraindication to lumbar spinal fusion.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1395–1404.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of adults with spina bifida cystica (SBC) who had been treated either operatively or non-operatively for scoliosis during childhood.

We reviewed 45 patients with a SBC scoliosis (Cobb angle ≥ 50º) who had been treated at one of two children’s hospitals between 1991 and 2007. Of these, 34 (75.6%) had been treated operatively and 11 (24.4%) non-operatively. After a mean follow-up of 14.1 years (standard deviation (sd) 4.3) clinical, radiological and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes were evaluated using the Spina Bifida Spine Questionnaire (SBSQ) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36).

Although patients in the two groups were demographically similar, those who had undergone surgery had a larger mean Cobb angle (88.0º (sd 20.5; 50.0 to 122.0); versus 65.7º (sd 22.0; 51.0 to 115.0); p < 0.01) and a larger mean clavicle–rib intersection difference (12.3 mm; (sd 8.5; 1 to 37); versus 4.1 mm, (sd 5.9; 0 to 16); p = 0.01) than those treated non-operatively. Both groups were statistically similar at follow-up with respect to walking capacity, neurological motor level, sitting balance and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes.

Spinal fusion in SBC scoliosis corrects coronal deformity and stops progression of the curve but has no clear effect on HRQOL.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014; 96-B:1244–51

Acute angulation at the thoracolumbar junction with segmental subluxation of the spine occurring at the level above an anteriorly hypoplastic vertebra in otherwise normal children is a rare condition described as infantile developmental thoracolumbar kyphosis. Three patient series with total of 18 children have been reported in the literature. We report five children who presented with thoracolumbar kyphosis and discuss the treatment algorithm. We reviewed the medical records and spinal imaging at initial clinical presentation and at minimum two-year follow-up. The mean age at presentation was eight months (two to 12). All five children had L2 anterior vertebral body hypoplasia. The kyphosis improved spontaneously in three children kept under monitoring. In contrast, the deformity was progressive in two patients who were treated with bracing. The kyphosis and segmental subluxation corrected at latest follow-up (mean age 52 months; 48 to 60) in all patients with near complete reconstitution of the anomalous vertebra. The deformity and radiological imaging on a young child can cause anxiety to both parents and treating physicians. Diagnostic workup and treatment algorithm in the management of infantile developmental thoracolumbar kyphosis is proposed. Observation is indicated for non-progressive kyphosis and bracing if there is evidence of kyphosis and segmental subluxation deterioration beyond walking age. Surgical stabilisation of the spine can be reserved for severe progressive deformities unresponsive to conservative treatment.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:982–7.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using the intact S1 nerve root as a donor nerve to repair an avulsion of the contralateral lumbosacral plexus. Two cohorts of patients were recruited. In cohort 1, the L4–S4 nerve roots of 15 patients with a unilateral fracture of the sacrum and sacral nerve injury were stimulated during surgery to establish the precise functional distribution of the S1 nerve root and its proportional contribution to individual muscles. In cohort 2, the contralateral uninjured S1 nerve root of six patients with a unilateral lumbosacral plexus avulsion was transected extradurally and used with a 25 cm segment of the common peroneal nerve from the injured leg to reconstruct the avulsed plexus.

The results from cohort 1 showed that the innervation of S1 in each muscle can be compensated for by L4, L5, S2 and S3. Numbness in the toes and a reduction in strength were found after surgery in cohort 2, but these symptoms gradually disappeared and strength recovered. The results of electrophysiological studies of the donor limb were generally normal.

Severing the S1 nerve root does not appear to damage the healthy limb as far as clinical assessment and electrophysiological testing can determine. Consequently, the S1 nerve can be considered to be a suitable donor nerve for reconstruction of an avulsed contralateral lumbosacral plexus.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:358–65.

Few studies have examined the order in which a spinal osteotomy and total hip replacement (THR) are to be performed for patients with ankylosing spondylitis. We have retrospectively reviewed 28 consecutive patients with ankylosing spondylitis who underwent both a spinal osteotomy and a THR from September 2004 to November 2012. In the cohort 22 patients had a spinal osteotomy before a THR (group 1), and six patients had a THR before a spinal osteotomy (group 2). The mean duration of follow-up was 3.5 years (2 to 9). The spinal sagittal Cobb angle of the vertebral osteotomy segment was corrected from a pre-operative kyphosis angle of 32.4 (SD 15.5°) to a post-operative lordosis 29.6 (SD 11.2°) (p < 0.001). Significant improvements in pain, function and range of movement were observed following THR. In group 2, two of six patients had an early anterior dislocation. The spinal osteotomy was performed two weeks after the THR. At follow-up, no hip has required revision in either group. Although this non-comparative study only involved a small number of patients, given our experience, we believe a spinal osteotomy should be performed prior to a THR, unless the deformity is so severe that the procedure cannot be performed.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:360–5.

No previous studies have examined the physical characteristics of patients with cauda equina syndrome (CES). We compared the anthropometric features of patients who developed CES after a disc prolapse with those who did not but who had symptoms that required elective surgery. We recorded the age, gender, height, weight and body mass index (BMI) of 92 consecutive patients who underwent elective lumbar discectomy and 40 consecutive patients who underwent discectomy for CES. On univariate analysis, the mean BMI of the elective discectomy cohort (26.5 kg/m² (16.6 to 41.7) was very similar to that of the age-matched national mean (27.6 kg/m², p = 1.0). However, the mean BMI of the CES cohort (31.1 kg/m² (21.0 to 54.9)) was significantly higher than both that of the elective group (p < 0.001) and the age-matched national mean (p < 0.001). A similar pattern was seen with the weight of the groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed, adjusted for age, gender, height, weight and BMI. Increasing BMI and weight were strongly associated with an increased risk of CES (odds ratio (OR) 1.17, p < 0.001; and OR 1.06, p <  0.001, respectively). However, increasing height was linked with a reduced risk of CES (OR 0.9, p < 0.01). The odds of developing CES were 3.7 times higher (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2 to 7.8, p = 0.016) in the overweight and obese (as defined by the World Health Organization: BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) than in those of ideal weight. Those with very large discs (obstructing > 75% of the spinal canal) had a larger BMI than those with small discs (obstructing < 25% of the canal; p < 0.01). We therefore conclude that increasing BMI is associated with CES.

The optimal timing of percutaneous vertebroplasty as treatment for painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) is still unclear. With the position of vertebroplasty having been challenged by recent placebo-controlled studies, appropriate timing gains importance.

We investigated the relationship between the onset of symptoms – the time from fracture – and the efficacy of vertebroplasty in 115 patients with 216 painful subacute or chronic OVCFs (mean time from fracture 6.0 months (sd 2.9)). These patients were followed prospectively in the first post-operative year to assess the level of back pain and by means of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We also investigated whether greater time from fracture resulted in a higher risk of complications or worse pre-operative condition, increased vertebral deformity or the development of nonunion of the fracture as demonstrated by the presence of an intravertebral cleft.

It was found that there was an immediate and sustainable improvement in the level of back pain and HRQoL after vertebroplasty, which was independent of the time from fracture. Greater time from fracture was associated with neither worse pre-operative conditions nor increased vertebral deformity, nor with the presence of an intravertebral cleft.

We conclude that vertebroplasty can be safely undertaken at an appropriate moment between two and 12 months following the onset of symptoms of an OVCF.

The revised Tokuhashi, Tomita and modified Bauer scores are commonly used to make difficult decisions in the management of patients presenting with spinal metastases. A prospective cohort study of 199 consecutive patients presenting with spinal metastases, treated with either surgery and/or radiotherapy, was used to compare the three systems. Cox regression, Nagelkerke’s R² and Harrell’s concordance were used to compare the systems and find their best predictive items. The three systems were equally good in terms of overall prognostic performance. Their most predictive items were used to develop the Oswestry Spinal Risk Index (OSRI), which has a similar concordance, but a larger coefficient of determination than any of these three scores. A bootstrap procedure was used to internally validate this score and determine its prediction optimism.

The OSRI is a simple summation of two elements: primary tumour pathology (PTP) and general condition (GC): OSRI = PTP + (2 – GC).

This simple score can predict life expectancy accurately in patients presenting with spinal metastases. It will be helpful in making difficult clinical decisions without the delay of extensive investigations.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:210–16.

Mesenchymal stem-cell based therapies have been proposed as novel treatments for intervertebral disc degeneration, a prevalent and disabling condition associated with back pain. The development of these treatment strategies, however, has been hindered by the incomplete understanding of the human nucleus pulposus phenotype and by an inaccurate interpretation and translation of animal to human research. This review summarises recent work characterising the nucleus pulposus phenotype in different animal models and in humans and integrates their findings with the anatomical and physiological differences between these species. Understanding this phenotype is paramount to guarantee that implanted cells restore the native functions of the intervertebral disc.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2013;2:169–78.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical predictors of surgical outcome in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). We reviewed a consecutive series of 248 patients (71 women and 177 men) with CSM who had undergone surgery at our institution between January 2000 and October 2010. Their mean age was 59.0 years (16 to 86). Medical records, office notes, and operative reports were reviewed for data collection. Special attention was focused on pre-operative duration and severity as well as post-operative persistence of myelopathic symptoms. Disease severity was graded according to the Nurick classification.

Our multivariate logistic regression model indicated that Nurick grade 2 CSM patients have the highest chance of complete symptom resolution (p < 0.001) and improvement to normal gait (p = 0.004) following surgery. Patients who did not improve after surgery had longer duration of myelopathic symptoms than those who did improve post-operatively (17.85 months (1 to 101) vs 11.21 months (1 to 69); p = 0.002). More advanced Nurick grades were not associated with a longer duration of symptoms (p = 0.906).

Our data suggest that patients with Nurick grade 2 CSM are most likely to improve from surgery. The duration of myelopathic symptoms does not have an association with disease severity but is an independent prognostic indicator of surgical outcome.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:966–71.

This article reviews the current knowledge of the intervertebral disc (IVD) and its association with low back pain (LBP). The normal IVD is a largely avascular and aneural structure with a high water content, its nutrients mainly diffusing through the end plates. IVD degeneration occurs when its cells die or become dysfunctional, notably in an acidic environment. In the process of degeneration, the IVD becomes dehydrated and vascularised, and there is an ingrowth of nerves. Although not universally the case, the altered physiology of the IVD is believed to precede or be associated with many clinical symptoms or conditions including low back and/or lower limb pain, paraesthesia, spinal stenosis and disc herniation.

New treatment options have been developed in recent years. These include biological therapies and novel surgical techniques (such as total disc replacement), although many of these are still in their experimental phase. Central to developing further methods of treatment is the need for effective ways in which to assess patients and measure their outcomes. However, significant difficulties remain and it is therefore an appropriate time to be further investigating the scientific basis of and treatment of LBP.

Conventional growing rods are the most commonly used distraction-based devices in the treatment of progressive early-onset scoliosis. This technique requires repeated lengthenings with the patient anaesthetised in the operating theatre. We describe the outcomes and complications of using a non-invasive magnetically controlled growing rod (MCGR) in children with early-onset scoliosis. Lengthening is performed on an outpatient basis using an external remote control with the patient awake.

Between November 2009 and March 2011, 34 children with a mean age of eight years (5 to 12) underwent treatment. The mean length of follow-up was 15 months (12 to 18). In total, 22 children were treated with dual rod constructs and 12 with a single rod. The mean number of distractions per patient was 4.8 (3 to 6). The mean pre-operative Cobb angle was 69° (46° to 108°); this was corrected to a mean 47° (28° to 91°) post-operatively. The mean Cobb angle at final review was 41° (27° to 86°). The mean pre-operative distance from T1 to S1 was 304 mm (243 to 380) and increased to 335 mm (253 to 400) in the immediate post-operative period. At final review the mean distance from T1 to S1 had increased to 348 mm (260 to 420).

Two patients developed a superficial wound infection and a further two patients in the single rod group developed a loss of distraction. In the dual rod group, one patient had pull-out of a hook and one developed prominent metalwork. Two patients had a rod breakage; one patient in the single rod group and one patient in the dual rod group. Our early results show that the MCGR is safe and effective in the treatment of progressive early-onset scoliosis with the avoidance of repeated surgical lengthenings.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:75–80.

We reviewed 212 consecutive patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent posterior spinal arthrodesis using all pedicle screw instrumentation in terms of clinical, radiological and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 outcomes. In Group 1 (51 patients), the correction was performed over two rods using bilateral segmental pedicle screws. In Group 2 (161 patients), the correction was performed over one rod using unilateral segmental pedicle screws with the second ^{rod providing stability of the construct through two-level screw fixation at proximal and distal ends. The mean age at surgery was 14.8 years in both groups. Comparison between groups showed no significant differences with regard to age and Risser grade at surgery, pre- and post-operative scoliosis angle, coronal Cobb correction, length of hospital stay and SRS scores. Correction of upper thoracic curves was significantly better in Group 1 (p = 0.02). Increased surgical time and intra-operative blood loss was recorded in Group 1 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.04, respectively). The implant cost was reduced by mean 35% in Group 2 due to the lesser number of pedicle screws.}

Unilateral and bilateral pedicle screw techniques have both achieved excellent deformity correction in adolescent patients with idiopathic scoliosis, which was maintained at two-year follow-up. This has been associated with high patient satisfaction and low complication rates.

Spinal stenosis and disc herniation are the two most frequent causes of lumbosacral nerve root compression. This can result in muscle weakness and present with or without pain. The difficulty when managing patients with these conditions is knowing when surgery is better than non-operative treatment: the evidence is controversial. Younger patients with a lesser degree of weakness for a shorter period of time have been shown to respond better to surgical treatment than older patients with greater weakness for longer. However, they also constitute a group that fares better without surgery. The main indication for surgical treatment in the management of patients with lumbosacral nerve root compression should be pain rather than weakness.

In a prospective study between August 2002 and August 2005, we studied the quantitative clinical and radiological outcome 36 months after percutaneous vertebroplasty for intractable type-II osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures which had been unresponsive to conservative treatment for at least eight weeks. We also examined the quality of life (QoL). The clinical follow-up involved the use of a pain intensity numerical rating scale (PI-NRS, 0 to 10), the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) QoL questionnaire and an anamnestic questionnaire before and at seven days (PI-NRS only), and one, three, 12 and 36 months post-operatively.

A total of 30 consecutive patients received percutaneous vertebroplasty for 62 vertebral compression fractures with a mean time between fracture and treatment of 7.7 months (2.2 to 39). An immediate, significant and lasting reduction in the average and worst back pain was found, represented by a decrease of 3.1 and 2.7 points after seven days and 3.1 and 2.8 points after 36 months, respectively (p < 0.00). Comparison of the pre- and post-vertebroplasty scores on the various SF-36 domains showed an ultimate significant increase in six of eight domains and both summary scores. Asymptomatic leakage of cement was found in 47 of 58 (81%) of treated vertebrae. Two minor complications occurred, an asymptomatic pulmonary cement embolism and a cement spur along the needle track.

Percutaneous vertebroplasty in the treatment of chronic vertebral compression fractures results in an immediate, significant and lasting reduction in back pain, and overall improvement in physical and mental health.

We have studied 180 patients (128 men and 52 women) who had undergone lumbar discectomy at a mean of 25.4 years (20 to 32) after operation. Pre-operatively, most patients (70 patients; 38.9%) had abnormal reflexes and/or muscle weakness in the leg (96 patients; 53.3%). At follow-up 42 patients (60%) with abnormal reflexes pre-operatively had fully recovered and 72 (75%) with pre-operative muscle impairment had normal muscle strength. When we looked at patient-reported outcomes, we found that the Short form-36 summary scores were similar to the aged-matched normative values. No disability or minimum disability on the Oswestry disability index was reported by 136 patients (75.6%), and 162 (90%) were satisfied with their operation. The most important predictors of patients’ self-reported positive outcome were male gender and higher educational level. No association was detected between muscle recovery and outcome.

Most patients who had undergone lumbar discectomy had long-lasting neurological recovery. If the motor deficit persists after operation, patients can still expect a long-term satisfactory outcome, provided that they have relief from pain immediately after surgery.

This study prospectively compared the efficacy of kyphoplasty using a Jack vertebral dilator and balloon kyphoplasty to treat osteoporotic compression fractures between T10 and L5. Between 2004 and 2009, two groups of 55 patients each underwent vertebral dilator kyphoplasty and balloon kyphoplasty, respectively. Pain, function, the Cobb angle, and the anterior and middle height of the vertebral body were assessed before and after operation. Leakage of bone cement was recorded. The post-operative change in the Cobb angle was significantly greater in the dilator kyphoplasty group than in the balloon kyphoplasty group (−9.51° (sd 2.56) vs −7.78° (sd 1.19), p < 0.001)). Leakage of cement was less in the dilator kyphoplasty group. No other significant differences were found in the two groups after operation, and both procedures gave equally satisfactory results in terms of all other variables assessed. No serious complications occurred in either group.

These findings suggest that vertebral dilator kyphoplasty can facilitate better correction of kyphotic deformity and may ultimately be a safer procedure in reducing leakage of bone cement.

We examined the reliability of radiological findings in predicting segmental instability in 112 patients (56 men, 56 women) with a mean age of 66.5 years (27 to 84) who had degenerative disease of the lumbar spine. They underwent intra-operative biomechanical evaluation using a new measurement system. Biomechanical instability was defined as a segment with a neutral zone > 2 mm/N. Risk factor analysis to predict instability was performed on radiographs (range of segmental movement, disc height), MRI (Thompson grade, Modic type), and on the axial CT appearance of the facet (type, opening, vacuum and the presence of osteophytes, subchondral erosion, cysts and sclerosis) using multivariate logistic regression analysis with a forward stepwise procedure. The facet type was classified as sagittally orientated, coronally orientated, anisotropic or wrapped.

Stepwise multivariate regression analysis revealed that facet opening was the strongest predictor for instability (odds ratio 5.022, p = 0.009) followed by spondylolisthesis, MRI grade and subchondral sclerosis. Forward stepwise multivariate logistic regression indicated that spondylolisthesis, MRI grade, facet opening and subchondral sclerosis of the facet were risk factors. Symptoms evaluated by the Short-Form 36 and visual analogue scale showed that patients with an unstable segment were in significantly more pain than those without. Furthermore, the surgical procedures determined using the intra-operative measurement system were effective, suggesting that segmental instability influences the symptoms of lumbar degenerative disease.

Low bone mass and osteopenia have been described in the axial and peripheral skeleton of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Recently, many studies have shown that gene polymorphism is related to osteoporosis. However, no studies have linked the association between IL6 gene polymorphism and bone mass in AIS. This study examined the association between bone mass and IL6 gene polymorphism in 198 girls with AIS. The polymorphisms of IL6-597 G→A, IL6-572 G→C and IL6-174 G→A and the bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and femoral neck were analysed and compared with their levels in healthy controls. The mean bone mineral density at both sites in patients with AIS was decreased compared with controls (p = 0.0022 and p = 0.0013, respectively). Comparison of genotype frequencies between AIS and healthy controls revealed a statistically significant difference in IL6-572 G→C polymorphism (p = 0.0305). There was a significant association between the IL6-572 G→C polymorphism and bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, with the CC genotype significantly higher with the GC (p = 0.0124) or GG (p = 0.0066) genotypes.

These results suggest that the IL6-572 G→C polymorphism is associated with bone mineral density in the lumbar spine in Korean girls with AIS.

The post-operative changes in the serum levels of CRP and serum amyloid A (SAA) were investigated prospectively in 106 patients after posterior lumbar interbody fusion. In 96 patients who did not have complications related to infection within the first year after operation, the median levels of CRP before operation and on days 3, 7 and 13 after were 0.02 (0.01 to 0.03), 9.12 (2.36 to 19.82), 1.64 (0.19 to 6.10) and 0.53 (0.05 to 2.94) mg/dl, respectively and for SAA, 2.6 (2.0 to 3.8), 1312.1 (58.0 to 3579.8), 77.3 (1.8 to 478.4), 14.1 (0.5 to 71.9) μg/ml, respectively. The levels on day 3 were the highest for both CRP and SAA and significantly decreased (p < 0.01) by day 7 and day 13.

In regard to CRP, no patient had less than the reference level (0.1 mg/dl) on day 7. In only three had the level decreased to the reference level, while in 93 it was above this on day 13. However, for SAA, the levels became normal on day 7 in 10 cases and on day 13 in 34 cases. The ratios relative to the levels on day 3 were significantly lower for SAA compared with CRP on day 7 and day 13. Of the ten patients with infection in the early stages, the level of CRP decreased slightly but an increase in SAA was observed in six.

We concluded that SAA is better than CRP as a post-operative inflammatory marker.

We present data relating to the Bryan disc arthroplasty for the treatment of cervical spondylosis in 46 patients.

Patients with either radiculopathy or myelopathy had a cervical discectomy followed by implantation of a cervical disc prosthesis. Patients were reviewed at six weeks, six months and one year and assessment included three outcome measures, a visual analogue scale (VAS), the short form 36 (SF-36) and the neck disability index (NDI). The results were categorised according to a modification of Odom’s criteria. Radiological evaluation, by an independent radiologist, sought evidence of movement, stability and subsidence of the prosthesis.

A highly significant difference was found for all three outcome measurements, comparing the pre-operative with the post-operative values: VAS (Z = 6.42, p < 0.0001), SF-36 (mental component) (Z = −5.02, p < 0.0001), SF-36 (physical component) (Z = −5.00, p < 0.0001) and NDI (Z = 7.03, p < 0.0001). The Bryan cervical disc prosthesis seems reliable and safe in the treatment of patients with cervical spondylosis.

We studied 70 consecutive patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent corrective surgery. They were divided into two groups. In the study group of 38 patients one or more modern blood-conservation measures was used peri-operatively. The 32 patients in the control group did not have these measures. Both groups were similar in regard to age, body-weight, the number of levels fused and the type of surgery.

Only two patients in the study group were transfused with homologous blood and these transfusions were ‘off-protocol’. Wastage of autologous pre-donated units was minimal (6 of 83 units). By contrast, all patients in the control group were transfused with homologous blood. In the study group there was a significant decrease (p = 0.005) in the estimated blood loss when all the blood-conservation methods were used.

The use of blood-conservation measures, the lowering of the haemoglobin trigger for transfusion and the education of the entire team involved in the care of the patient can prevent the need for homologous blood transfusion in patients undergoing surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

We reviewed 15 consecutive patients, 11 women and four men, with a mean age of 48.7 years (37.3 to 62.6), who between July 2004 and August 2007 had undergone percutaneous sacroiliac fusion using hollow modular anchorage screws filled with demineralised bone matrix.

Each patient was carefully assessed to exclude other conditions and underwent pre-operative CT and MR scans. The diagnosis of symptomatic sacroiliac disease was confirmed by an injection of local anaesthetic and steroid under image intensifier control.

The short form-36 questionnaire and Majeed’s scoring system were used for pre- and post-operative functional evaluation. Post-operative radiological evaluation was performed using plain radiographs.

Intra-operative blood loss was minimal and there were no post-operative clinical or radiological complications. The mean follow-up was for 17 months (9 to 39). The mean short form-36 scores improved from 37 (23 to 51) to 80 (67 to 92) for physical function and from 53 (34 to 73) to 86 (70 to 98) for general health (p = 0.037). The mean Majeed’s score improved from 37 (18 to 54) pre-operatively to 79 (63 to 96) post-operatively (p = 0.014). There were 13 good to excellent results. The remaining two patients improved in short form-36 from a mean of 29 (26 to 35) to 48 (44 to 52). Their persistent pain was probably due to concurrent lumbar pathology.

We conclude that percutaneous hollow modular anchorage screws are a satisfactory method of achieving sacroiliac fusion.

Our aim in this prospective radiological study was to determine whether the flexibility rate calculated from radiographs obtained during forced traction under general anaesthesia, was better than that of fulcrum-bending radiographs before corrective surgery in predicting the extent of the available correction in patients with idiopathic scoliosis. We evaluated 33 patients with a Cobb angle > 60° on a standing posteroanterior radiograph, who had been treated by posterior correction. Pre-operative standing fulcrum-bending radiographs and those with forced-traction under general anaesthesia were obtained. Post-operative standing radiographs were taken after surgical correction.

The mean forced-traction flexibility rate was 55% (sd 11.3) which was significantly higher than the mean fulcrum-bending flexibility rate of 32% (sd 16.1) (p < 0.001). We found no correlation between either the forced-traction or fulcrum-bending flexibility rates and the correction rate post-operatively (p = 0.24 and p = 0.44, respectively).

Radiographs obtained during forced traction under general anaesthesia were better at predicting the flexibility of the curve than fulcrum-bending radiographs in curves with a Cobb angle > 60° in the standing position and may identify those patients for whom supplementary anterior surgery can be avoided.

Between January 1990 and December 2000 we carried out 226 SB Charité III disc replacements for lumbar disc degeneration in 160 patients. They were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 79 months (31 to 161) to determine the clinical and radiological outcome. The clinical results were collected by an independent observer, who was not involved in patient selection, treatment or follow-up, using a combination of outcome measures, including the Oswestry Disability Index. Pain was recorded using a visual analogue score, and the most recent radiographs were reviewed.

Survival of the device was analysed by the Kaplan-Meier method and showed a cumulative survival of 35% at 156 months when radiological failure was taken as the endpoint. The mean improvement in the Oswestry disability index scores after disc replacement was 14% (6% to 21%) and the mean improvement in the pain score was 1.6 (0.46 to 2.73), both falling below the clinically significant threshold. Removal of the implant was required in 12 patients, four because of implant failure.

These poor results indicate that further use of this implant is not justified.