Retiro de aguja intradural en la columna toracolumbar. Reporte de un caso

La presencia de elementos extraños dentro del canal raquídeo es infrecuente y no hay claro consenso respecto de su tratamiento. Las publicaciones sobre fragmentos de proyectil de arma de fuego intracanal recomiendan la exéresis de los fragmentos ante la posibilidad de migración, sobre todo, cuando están en una zona próxima al cono medular. Se debería proceder del mismo modo ante una aguja dentro del canal espinal. Presentamos a una paciente con dolor radicular invalidante provocado por un fragmento de aguja dentro del canal espinal luego de una cesárea

Heme oxygenase-1 in the forefront of a multi-molecular network that governs cell–cell contacts and filopodia-induced zippering in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) cells display abnormal expression of cytoskeletal proteins resulting in an augmented capacity to resist chemotherapy and colonize distant organs. We have previously shown that heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) is implicated in cell morphology regulation in PCa. Here, through a multi 'omics' approach we define the HO-1 interactome in PCa, identifying HO-1 molecular partners associated with the integrity of the cellular cytoskeleton. The bioinformatics screening for these cytoskeletal-related partners reveal that they are highly misregulated in prostate adenocarcinoma compared with normal prostate tissue. Under HO-1 induction, PCa cells present reduced frequency in migration events, trajectory and cell velocity and, a significant higher proportion of filopodia-like protrusions favoring zippering among neighboring cells. Moreover forced expression of HO-1 was also capable of altering cell protrusions in transwell co-culture systems of PCa cells with MC3T3 cells (pre-osteoblastic cell line). Accordingly, these effects were reversed under siHO. Transcriptomics profiling evidenced significant modulation of key markers related to cell adhesion and cell–cell communication under HO-1 induction. The integration from our omics-based research provides a four molecular pathway foundation (ANXA2/HMGA1/POU3F1; NFRSF13/GSN; TMOD3/RAI14/VWF; and PLAT/PLAU) behind HO-1 regulation of tumor cytoskeletal cell compartments. The complementary proteomics and transcriptomics approaches presented here promise to move us closer to unravel the molecular framework underpinning HO-1 involvement in the modulation of cytoskeleton pathways, pushing toward a less aggressive phenotype in PCa

Perioperative Anticoagulation Management in Spine Surgery: Initial Findings From the AO Spine Anticoagulation Global Survey.

STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional, international survey. OBJECTIVES: This study addressed the global perspectives concerning perioperative use of pharmacologic thromboprophylaxis during spine surgery along with its risks and benefits. METHODS: A questionnaire was designed and implemented by expert members in the AO Spine community. The survey was distributed to AO Spine\u27s spine surgeon members (N = 3805). Data included surgeon demographic information, type and region of practice, anticoagulation principles, different patient scenarios, and comorbidities. Results: A total of 316 (8.3% response rate) spine surgeons completed the survey, representing 64 different countries. Completed surveys were primarily from Europe (31.7%), South/Latin America (19.9%), and Asia (18.4%). Surgeons tended to be 35 to 44 years old (42.1%), fellowship-trained (74.7%), and orthopedic surgeons (65.5%) from academic institutions (39.6%). Most surgeons (70.3%) used routine anticoagulation risk stratification, irrespective of geographic location. However, significant differences were seen between continents with anticoagulation initiation and cessation methodology. Specifically, the length of a procedure (P = .036) and patient body mass index (P = .008) were perceived differently when deciding to begin anticoagulation, while the importance of medical clearance (P \u3c .001) and reference to literature (P = .035) differed during cessation. For specific techniques, most providers noted use of mobilization, low-molecular-weight heparin, and mechanical prophylaxis beginning on postoperative 0 to 1 days. Conversely, bridging regimens were bimodal in distribution, with providers electing anticoagulant initiation on postoperative 0 to 1 days or days 5-6. CONCLUSION: This survey highlights the heterogeneity of spine care and accentuates geographical variations. Furthermore, it identifies the difficulty in providing consistent perioperative anticoagulation recommendations to patients, as there remains no widely accepted, definitive literature of evidence or guidelines

The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Spine Surgeons Worldwide : A One Year Prospective Comparative Study

Study Design: Survey Objective: In March of 2020, an original study by Louie et al investigated the impact of COVID-19 on 902 spine surgeons internationally. Since then, due to varying government responses and public health initiatives to the pandemic, individual countries and regions of the world have been affected differently. Therefore, this follow-up study aimed to assess how the COVID-19 impact on spine surgeons has changed 1 year later. Methods: A repeat, multi-dimensional, 90-item survey written in English was distributed to spine surgeons worldwide via email to the AO Spine membership who agreed to receive surveys. Questions were categorized into the following domains: demographics, COVID-19 observations, preparedness, personal impact, patient care, and future perceptions. Results: Basic respondent demographics, such as gender, age, home demographics, medical comorbidities, practice type, and years since training completion, were similar to those of the original 2020 survey. Significant differences between groups included reasons for COVID testing, opinions of media coverage, hospital unemployment, likelihood to be performing elective surgery, percentage of cases cancelled, percentage of personal income, sick leave, personal time allocation, stress coping mechanisms, and the belief that future guidelines were needed (P<.05). Conclusion: Compared to baseline results collected at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, significant differences in various domains related to COVID-19 perceptions, hospital preparedness, practice impact, personal impact, and future perceptions have developed. Follow-up assessment of spine surgeons has further indicated that telemedicine and virtual education are mainstays. Such findings may help to inform and manage expectations and responses to any future outbreaks.publishedVersionPeer reviewe

Factors Affecting the Decision to Initiate Anticoagulation After Spine Surgery: Findings From the AOSpine Anticoagulation Global Initiative

STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional, international survey. OBJECTIVES: To identify factors influencing pharmacologic anticoagulation initiation after spine surgery based on the AOSpine Anticoagulation Global Survey. METHODS: This survey was distributed to the international membership of AOSpine (n = 3805). A Likert-type scale described grade practice-specific factors on a scale from low (1) to high (5) importance, and patient-specific factors a scale from low (0) to high (3) importance. Analysis was performed to determine which factors were significant in the decision making surrounding the initiation of pharmacologic anticoagulation. RESULTS: A total of 316 spine surgeons from 64 countries completed the survey. In terms of practice-specific factors considered to initiate treatment, expert opinion was graded the highest (mean grade ± SD = 3.2 ± 1.3), followed by fellowship training (3.2 ± 1.3). Conversely, previous studies (2.7 ± 1.2) and unspecified guidelines were considered least important (2.6 ± 1.6). Patient body mass index (2.0 ± 1.0) and postoperative mobilization (2.3 ± 1.0) were deemed most important and graded highly overall. Those who rated estimated blood loss with greater importance in anticoagulation initiation decision making were more likely to administer thromboprophylaxis at later times (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.68-0.71), while those who rated drain output with greater importance were likely to administer thromboprophylaxis at earlier times (HR = 1.32-1.43). CONCLUSION: Among our global cohort of spine surgeons, certain patient factors (ie, patient mobilization and body mass index) and practice-specific factors (ie, expert opinion and fellowship training) were considered to be most important when considering anticoagulation start times

Reproductibilidad del ángulo de Cobb en imágenes digitales obtenidas por fotografía de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm en escoliosis del adulto: Comparación entre 2 observadores y 3 cámaras digitales. [Reliability analysis for coronal cobb angle measurements of digitally acquired photograph to the 30 x 90 cm films in adult scoliosis: comparison among two observers and three digital cameras]

In­tro­duc­ción La fotografía digital de radiografías puede generar distorsiones angulares en las imágenes. No está publicado si estas alteraciones pueden afectar las mediciones de los ángulos de Cobb. Objetivo Evaluar la reproducibilidad del ángulo de Cobb con la fotografía digital de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm en escoliosis del adulto. Material ­y­ Métodos Se eligieron al azar 20 espinogramas preoperatorios de pacientes con escoliosis del adulto para evaluar prospectivamente. Los espinogramas fueron escaneados y sus imágenes digitales se consideraron como controles. Se analizó la discrepancia intraobservador, interobservador, intercámara e intracámara, con tres cámaras digitales y dos observadores que realizaron ocho sesiones fotográficas a cada espinograma. Se midieron los ángulos con Adobe Photoshop® sobre las imágenes digitales y se los analizó con el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados El promedio de los ángulos de Cobb torácicos y lumbares del escáner, las cámaras 1, 2 y 3 fue de 37,9; 37,8; 37,7; 37,5; 53,2; 53,1; 53,3; 52,9, respectivamente. La correlación interobservador e intraobservador fue extremadamente alta, así como entre las cámaras y el escáner. Conclusión El ángulo de Cobb se puede medir luego de la fotografía digital de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm, con alta reproducibilidad entre diferentes cámaras y observadores

Evaluación clínica y radiológica de la instrumentación y artrodesis corta por vía posterior en fracturas toracolumbares. [Posterior­ arthrodesis ­and­ short­ instrumentation­ in­ thoracolumbar­ spine ­fracture:­clinical­ and­ radiological­ evaluation­]

In­tro­duc­ción: El tratamiento quirúrgico de las fracturas toracolumbares es controvertido. La vía de abordaje y la cantidad de niveles de instrumentación son motivo de debate. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar los resultados radiológicos y clínicos de pacientes con fracturas toracolumbares por estallido y flexión/distracción. Materiales­y­Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de una serie consecutiva de pacientes tratados quirúrgicamente entre 2004 y 2008, con seguimiento >12 meses. Se incluyeron pacientes con instrumentación y artrodesis corta de los niveles adyacentes a la lesión, abordados por vía posterior. Se tomaron en cuenta fracturas de tipo A3 y B de la clasificación AO. Se llevaron a cabo evaluaciones clínica, neurológica y radiológica. Resultados: Se registraron 25 pacientes, 3 se perdieron en el seguimiento y 22 fueron analizados. El promedio de edad fue de 37 años. La causa más frecuente fue caída de altura, seguida de accidente vehicular. El nivel más afectado fue L1. El promedio de cifosis preoperatoria fue de 14º y de 4º en el posoperatorio alejado. En la evaluación clínica, 10 pacientes tuvieron un excelente resultado; 10, bueno y 2, regular. No hubo compromiso neurológico en 21 pacientes. Conclusiones:La instrumentación corta proporciona muy buenos resultados en la mayoría de los pacientes tanto a nivel radiológico como funcional. La selección de los pacientes debe ser estricta, se debe excluir a aquellos con cifosis grave, conminución importante u otro factor que haga pensar en la necesidad de un abordaje anterior. En el seguimiento alejado, no se observa una pérdida significativa de la reducción en la cifosis

Reproductibilidad del ángulo de Cobb en imágenes digitales obtenidas por fotografía de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm en escoliosis del adulto: Comparación entre 2 observadores y 3 cámaras digitales

BackgroundDigital photography to radiographs can generate angular distortions to the images. It is not published if these distortions can affect the lines used for Cobb measurements in routine practice.Objective:­To analyze reliability for coronal Cobb angle measurements of digitally acquired photograph to the 30 x 90 cm plain films in adult scoliosis.MethodsTwenty anteroposterior long-cassette scoliosis radiographs from adult patients who were operated on in one institution were randomly selected and prospectively studied. The endplates of the curves were selected and marked by one observer. The radiographs were scanned and the digital images were used as controls. The variability of the measurements was evaluated with three digital cameras and two observers making eight photographic sessions to each long-film. Over the digital images the Cobb angles were measured using Adobe Photoshop® and they were analyzed with the Pearson correlation coefficient.ResultsThe overall mean thoracic and lumbar Cobb an- gles for the scanned, camera 1, 2 and 3 were 37.9, 37.8, 37.7, 37.5, 53.2, 53.1, 53.3, 52.9, respectively. The interobserver and intraobserver agreement was extremely high, as well as across cameras and scanner.ConclusionThe Cobb angle can be measured after digitally photographed films with high reliability among different cameras and observers.In­tro­duc­ciónLa fotografía digital de radiografías puede generar distorsiones angulares en las imágenes. No está publicado si estas alteraciones pueden afectar las mediciones de los ángulos de Cobb. ObjetivoEvaluar la reproducibilidad del ángulo de Cobb con la fotografía digital de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm en escoliosis del adulto. Material ­y­ MétodosSe eligieron al azar 20 espinogramas preoperatorios de pacientes con escoliosis del adulto para evaluar prospectivamente. Los espinogramas fueron escaneados y sus imágenes digitales se consideraron como controles. Se analizó la discrepancia intraobservador, interobservador, intercámara e intracámara, con tres cámaras digitales y dos observadores que realizaron ocho sesiones fotográficas a cada espinograma. Se midieron los ángulos con Adobe Photoshop® sobre las imágenes digitales y se los analizó con el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. ResultadosEl promedio de los ángulos de Cobb torácicos y lumbares del escáner, las cámaras 1, 2 y 3 fue de 37,9; 37,8; 37,7; 37,5; 53,2; 53,1; 53,3; 52,9, respectivamente. La correlación interobservador e intraobservador fue extremadamente alta, así como entre las cámaras y el escáner. ConclusiónEl ángulo de Cobb se puede medir luego de la fotografía digital de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm, con alta reproducibilidad entre diferentes cámaras y observadores

Evaluación clínica y radiológica de la instrumentación y artrodesis corta por vía posterior en fracturas toracolumbares

Background: Surgical treatment of thoracolumbar fractures is controversial. The approach and number of levels of instrumentation are debated. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical and radiological outcomes of burst fractures.Methods: Retrospective study. Consecutive series of patients treated with short instrumentation and posterior fusion between 2004 and 2008, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Type A3 and B fractures of AO classification were included. Clinical, neurological and radiological outcomes were analyzed.Results:­ Twenty-five patients were included and 22 completed the follow-up. The average of age was 37 years. The most common cause was fall from high, followed by road accident and the most affected region was L1. The average of kyphosis was 14° before surgery and 4° in the remote follow-up. Clinical evaluation was excellent in 10 patients, good in 10 and regular in 2. Twenty-one patients had no neurological compromise.Conclusions:­ Short instrumentation and posterior arthrodesis offer very good clinical and functional result in most patients. Patient selection must be strict, excluding those with severe kyphosis, significant comminution or other factor that would suggest the need for an anterior approach. Long-term follow-up did not show significant loose of kyphosis. In­tro­duc­ción: El tratamiento quirúrgico de las fracturas toracolumbares es controvertido. La vía de abordaje y la cantidad de niveles de instrumentación son motivo de debate. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar los resultados radiológicos y clínicos de pacientes con fracturas toracolumbares por estallido y flexión/distracción.Materiales­y­Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de una serie consecutiva de pacientes tratados quirúrgicamente entre 2004 y 2008, con seguimiento >12 meses. Se incluyeron pacientes con instrumentación y artrodesis corta de los niveles adyacentes a la lesión, abordados por vía posterior. Se tomaron en cuenta fracturas de tipo A3 y B de la clasificación AO. Se llevaron a cabo evaluaciones clínica, neurológica y radiológica.Resultados: Se registraron 25 pacientes, 3 se perdieron en el seguimiento y 22 fueron analizados. El promedio de edad fue de 37 años. La causa más frecuente fue caída de altura, seguida de accidente vehicular. El nivel más afectado fue L1. El promedio de cifosis preoperatoria fue de 14º y de 4º en el posoperatorio alejado. En la evaluación clínica, 10 pacientes tuvieron un excelente resultado; 10, bueno y 2, regular. No hubo compromiso neurológico en 21 pacientes.Conclusiones:La instrumentación corta proporciona muy buenos resultados en la mayoría de los pacientes tanto a nivel radiológico como funcional. La selección de los pacientes debe ser estricta, se debe excluir a aquellos con cifosis grave, conminución importante u otro factor que haga pensar en la necesidad de un abordaje anterior. En el seguimiento alejado, no se observa una pérdida significativa de la reducción en la cifosis. 

Complications in Spinal Fusion Surgery: A Systematic Review of Clinically Used Cages

Spinal fusion (SF) comprises surgical procedures for several pathologies that affect different spinal levels, and different cages are employed in SF surgery. Few clinical studies highlight the role of cages in complications beyond the outcomes. The aim of this systematic review is to collect the last 10 years’ worth of clinical studies that include cages in SF surgery, focusing on complications. Three databases are employed, and 21 clinical studies are included. The most-performed SF procedure was anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), followed by lumbar SF. The polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage was the most-used, and it was usually associated with autograft or calcium phosphate ceramics (hydroxyapatite (HA) and tricalcium phosphate (βTCP)). For lumbar SF procedures, the highest percentages of subsidence and pseudoarthrosis were observed with PEEK filled with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) and βTCP. For ACDF procedures, PEEK filled with autograft showed the highest percentages of subsidence and pseudoarthrosis. Most studies highlighted the role of surgical techniques in patient complications. There are many interacting events that contextually affect the rate of clinical success or failure. Therefore, in future clinical studies, attention should focus on cages to improve knowledge of chemical, biological and topographical characteristics to improve bone growth and to counteract complications such as cage loosening or breaking and infections