Richard Fessler - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Richard Fessler

Journal of neurosurgery, Jul 1, 2016

The International Journal of Spine Surgery, May 7, 2021

European Spine Journal, 2008

Lumbar spinal fusion is advancing with minimally invasive techniques, bone graft alternatives, an... more Lumbar spinal fusion is advancing with minimally invasive techniques, bone graft alternatives, and new implants. This has resulted in significant reductions of operative time, duration of hospitalization, and higher success in fusion rates. However, costs have increased as many new technologies are expensive. This study was carried out to investigate the clinical outcomes and fusion rates of a low implant load construct of unilateral pedicle screws and a translaminar screw in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) which reduced the cost of the posterior implants by almost 50%. Nineteen consecutive patients who underwent single level TLIF with this construct were included in the study. Sixteen patients had a TLIF allograft interbody spacer placed, while in three a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage was used. Follow-up ranged from 15 to 54 months with a mean of 32 months. A clinical and radiographic evaluation was carried out preoperatively and at multiple time points following surgery. An overall improvement in Oswestry scores and visual analogue scales for leg and back pain (VAS) was observed. Three patients underwent revision surgery due to recurrence of back pain. All patients showed radiographic evidence of fusion from 9 to 26 months (mean 19) following surgery. This study suggests that unilateral pedicle screws and a contralateral translaminar screw are a cheaper and viable option for single level lumbar fusion.

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2021

OBJECTIVE Circumferential minimally invasive spine surgery (cMIS) for adult scoliosis has become ... more OBJECTIVE Circumferential minimally invasive spine surgery (cMIS) for adult scoliosis has become more advanced and powerful, but direct comparison with traditional open correction using prospectively collected data is limited. The authors performed a retrospective review of prospectively collected, multicenter adult spinal deformity data. The authors directly compared cMIS for adult scoliosis with open correction in propensity-matched cohorts using health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) measures and surgical parameters. METHODS Data from a prospective, multicenter adult spinal deformity database were retrospectively reviewed. Inclusion criteria were age > 18 years, minimum 1-year follow-up, and one of the following characteristics: pelvic tilt (PT) > 25°, pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) > 10°, Cobb angle > 20°, or sagittal vertical axis (SVA) > 5 cm. Patients were categorized as undergoing cMIS (percutaneous screws with minimally invasive anterior inter...

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2020

OBJECTIVESurgical decision-making and planning is a key factor in optimizing outcomes in adult sp... more OBJECTIVESurgical decision-making and planning is a key factor in optimizing outcomes in adult spinal deformity (ASD). Minimally invasive spinal (MIS) strategies for ASD have been increasingly used as an option to decrease postoperative morbidity. This study analyzes factors involved in the selection of either a traditional open approach or a minimally invasive approach to treat ASD in a prospective, nonrandomized multicenter trial. All centers had at least 5 years of experience in minimally invasive techniques for ASD.METHODSThe study enrolled 268 patients, of whom 120 underwent open surgery and 148 underwent MIS surgery. Inclusion criteria included age ≥ 18 years, and at least one of the following criteria: coronal curve (CC) ≥ 20°, sagittal vertical axis (SVA) > 5 cm, pelvic tilt (PT) > 25°, or thoracic kyphosis (TK) > 60°. Surgical approach selection was made at the discretion of the operating surgeon. Preoperative significant differences were included in a multivariate...

Neurosurgery, 2018

INTRODUCTION: There has been an increasing focus on the importance of patient-reported outcomes (... more INTRODUCTION: There has been an increasing focus on the importance of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in spine surgery. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) is one of the most commonly used PRO instruments, but is limited by the time and effort required to complete the 10 question survey. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is an alternative means of measuring physical, mental, and social health that can be applied to spinal surgery outcomes. This study assesses whether a simpler and quicker 4 question survey from the PROMIS initiative could be a surrogate for the ODI. METHODS: Patients evaluated in the adult neurosurgery spine clinic at a single institution were included. Patients filled out ODI, PROMIS 4 question Physical Function Scale, and PROMIS 4 question Pain Scale at various time points including baseline, 1 yr, and more. Standard descriptive statistical analysis and correlation calculations were utilized on all surveys, baseline surveys, and 1-yr follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 343 sets of completed surveys were obtained involving patients seen at the initial visit and those who in follow-up after surgery. There were a total of 147 baseline surveys. The physical function and pain scale correlations with ODI were 0.7 (P < .00001) and 0.69 (P < .00001), respectively. These results demonstrate strong and moderate positive correlations. There were a total of 52 1-yr follow-up surveys. The physical function and pain scale correlations with ODI were 0.86 (P < .00001) and 0.88 (P < .00001), respectively. These results demonstrate strong positive correlations. CONCLUSION: There appears to be a strong positive correlation between ODI and both 4 question scales provided by the PROMIS initiative. Given the strong positive correlation noted on these scales, we can consider replacing the cumbersome ODI with a more efficient questionnaire with hopes of more reliable completion and less burden for the patients and providers.

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2019

OBJECTIVEMinimally invasive surgery (MIS) can be used as an alternative or adjunct to traditional... more OBJECTIVEMinimally invasive surgery (MIS) can be used as an alternative or adjunct to traditional open techniques for the treatment of patients with adult spinal deformity. Recent advances in MIS techniques, including advanced anterior approaches, have increased the range of candidates for MIS deformity surgery. The minimally invasive spinal deformity surgery (MISDEF2) algorithm was created to provide an updated framework for decision-making when considering MIS techniques in correction of adult spinal deformity.METHODSA modified algorithm was developed that incorporates a patient’s preoperative radiographic parameters and leads to one of 4 general plans ranging from basic to advanced MIS techniques to open deformity surgery with osteotomies. The authors surveyed 14 fellowship-trained spine surgeons experienced with spinal deformity surgery to validate the algorithm using a set of 24 cases to establish interobserver reliability. They then re-surveyed the same surgeons 2 months later...

International Journal of Spine Surgery

Background: The clinical efficacy of single-level minimally invasive lumbar decompression and/or ... more Background: The clinical efficacy of single-level minimally invasive lumbar decompression and/or microdiscectomy is well established, with improved postoperative functional outcome and pain scores. However, there is a paucity of clinical data supporting the use of minimally invasive (MIS) techniques in a single operation to address pathology at multiple lumbar levels, and this study attempts to address this issue. Methods: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data from patients with symptomatic lumbar stenosis and/or disc herniations who underwent multilevel minimally invasive decompression or microdiscectomy from November 2014 to February 2018 was conducted at a single academic medical center. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) Physical Component Summary Score (PCS) and Mental Component Summary Score (MCS), and Scoliosis Research Society survey (SRS-30), were prospectively collected before surgery and at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. Results: During the study period, 92 patients received multilevel (!2 level) MIS lumbar decompression and/or discectomy (69 two level, 21 three level, 2 four level). The mean age at surgery was 69.7 years, and 23 (25%) patients were women. Patient-reported outcomes were significantly improved both in the short and long term except for the SF-12 MCS.

Journal of Neuroanaesthesiology and Critical Care

Intraoperative neuromonitoring is recommended as standard practice for corrective scoliosis surge... more Intraoperative neuromonitoring is recommended as standard practice for corrective scoliosis surgery. Common methods include somatosensory-evoked potentials (SSEPs) and transcranial motor-evoked potentials (TcMEPs), which have been shown to have a high diagnostic accuracy in detecting new neurological deficits postoperatively. Sequential compression devices (SCDs) are a common method for thromboprophylaxis in spine surgery and are not known to have many device-related complications. To date, there have been no reports of lower extremity ischemia secondary to SCD deflation failure detected by multimodality neuromonitoring during minimally invasive posterior spine surgery. We, therefore, present a case report of an 18-year-old male with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent minimally invasive posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation. Intraoperative decrease in SSEPs and TcMEPs were noted in the left leg shortly after incision before any instrumentation or reduction occurred...

Medicina

Background and Objectives: The use of minimally invasive retractor systems has significantly decr... more Background and Objectives: The use of minimally invasive retractor systems has significantly decreased the amount of tissue dissection and blood loss, and the duration of post-operative recovery after far-lateral disc herniations (FLDH). In this technical note, the technique of docking the tubular retractor on the caudal transverse process is described for an efficient approach with a decreased need for manipulation of the exiting nerve root. Materials and Methods: The case reported is that of a woman affected by a right-sided FLDH at the L4–5 level causing an L4 radiculopathy with weakness and numbness. A review of the literature for FLDH regarding the key anatomy used during a far lateral approach was also performed. Results: The patient showed a significant improvement of her dorsiflexion weakness and radiating leg pain at her 2-week and 5-week post-operative visits, and at a 6-month follow-up she had near-complete relief of her symptoms, including resolution of foot numbness. Pr...

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine

OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of 3 escalating doses of... more OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of 3 escalating doses of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (LCTOPC1; previously known as GRNOPC1 and AST-OPC1) administered at a single time point between 21 and 42 days postinjury to participants with subacute cervical spinal cord injuries (SCIs). The secondary objective was to evaluate changes in neurological function following administration of LCTOPC1. METHODS This study was designed as an open-label, dose-escalation, multicenter clinical trial. Twenty-five participants with C4–7 American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade A or B injuries received a single dose of either 2 × 106, 1 × 107, or 2 × 107 LCTOPC1 delivered via intraparenchymal injection into the spinal cord at the site of injury using a custom-designed syringe positioning device. Low-dose tacrolimus was administered until day 60. Outcome measures included adverse event (AE) monitoring and neurological function as measured by the Inte...

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of oligodendrocyte progenitor cell... more OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (LCTOPC1) derived from human pluripotent stem cells administered between 7 and 14 days postinjury to patients with T3 to T11 neurologically complete spinal cord injury (SCI). The rationale for this first-in-human trial was based on evidence that administration of LCTOPC1 supports survival and potential repair of key cellular components and architecture at the SCI site. METHODS This study was a multisite, open-label, single-arm interventional clinical trial. Participants (n = 5) received a single intraparenchymal injection of 2 × 106 LCTOPC1 caudal to the epicenter of injury using a syringe positioning device. Immunosuppression with tacrolimus was administered for a total of 60 days. Participants were followed with annual in-person examinations and MRI for 5 years at the time of this report and will be followed with annual telephone questionnaires for 6 to 15 years postinjection. The pr...

Medicines, 2020

Background: Although many therapeutic approaches have been attempted to treat spinal cord injury,... more Background: Although many therapeutic approaches have been attempted to treat spinal cord injury, cellular transplantation offers the greatest promise in reconstituting the architecture of the damaged cord. Methods: A literature review was conducted to search for clinical trials investigating stem cells as treatment for spinal cord injury in the United States. Results: Overall, eight studies met inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, four were identified as being terminated, suspended, or not yet recruiting. Two studies were identified as currently recruiting, including one phase one trial evaluating stereotactic injections of human spinal cord-derived neural stem cells in patients with chronic spinal cord injuries, and one trial of transplantation of autologous bone marrow derived stem cells via paraspinal injections, intravenous injections, and intranasal placement. One study was identified as an active study, a phase one trial of intrathecal injection of 100 million autolog...

Journal of Spine Surgery, 2020

Posterior atlantoaxial fusion is an important surgical technique frequently used to treat various... more Posterior atlantoaxial fusion is an important surgical technique frequently used to treat various pathologies involving the cervical 1-2 joint. Since the beginning of the 20th century, various fusion techniques have been developed with improved safety profile, higher fusion rates, and superior clinical outcome. Despite the advancement of technology and surgical techniques, posterior C1-2 fusion is still a technically challenging procedure given the complex bony and neurovascular anatomy in the craniovertebral junction (CVJ). In addition, vascular anomalies in this region are not uncommon and can lead to devastating neurovascular complications if unrecognized. Thus, it is important for spine surgeons to be familiar with various posterior atlantoaxial fusion techniques along with a thorough knowledge of various vascular anomalies in the CVJ. Intimate knowledge of the various surgical techniques in combination with an appreciation for anatomical variances, allows the surgeon develop a customized surgical plan tailored to each patient's particular pathology and individual anatomy. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of existing posterior C1-2 fusion techniques along with a review of common vascular anomalies in the CVJ.

Neurosurgical focus, 2017

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to educate medical professionals about potential financial im... more OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to educate medical professionals about potential financial impacts of improper diagnosis-related group (DRG) coding in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. METHODS Medicare's Inpatient Prospective Payment System PC Pricer database was used to collect 2015 reimbursement data for ASD procedures from 12 hospitals. Case type, hospital type/location, number of operative levels, proper coding, length of stay, and complications/comorbidities (CCs) were analyzed for effects on reimbursement. DRGs were used to categorize cases into 3 types: 1) anterior or posterior only fusion, 2) anterior fusion with posterior percutaneous fixation with no dorsal fusion, and 3) combined anterior and posterior fixation and fusion. RESULTS Pooling institutions, cases were reimbursed the same for single-level and multilevel ASD surgery. Longer stay, from 3 to 8 days, resulted in an additional 1400perstay.Posteriorfusionwasanadditional1400 per stay. Posterior fusion was an additional 1400perstay.Posteriorfusionwasanadditional6588, while CCs increased ...

Spine, 2009

Study Design. A prospective, randomized, multicenter study of surgical treatment of cervical disc... more Study Design. A prospective, randomized, multicenter study of surgical treatment of cervical disc disease. Objective. To assess the safety and efficacy of cervical disc arthroplasty using a new arthroplasty device at 24months follow-up. Summary of Background Data. Cervical disc arthroplasty preserves motion in the cervical spine. It is an alternative to fusion after neurologic decompression, whereas anterior decompression and fusion provides a rigorous comparative benchmark of success. Methods. We conducted a randomized controlled multicenter clinical trial enrolling patients with cervical disc disease. Ultimately 242 received the investigational device (Bryan Cervical Disc), and 221 patients underwent a single-level anterior cervical discectomy and decompression and fusion as a control group. Patients completed clinical and radiographic follow-up examinations at regular intervals for 2 years after surgery. Results. Analysis of 12-and 24-month postoperative data showed improvement in all clinical outcome measures for both groups; however, 24 months after surgery, the investigational group patients treated with the artificial disc had a statistically greater improvement in the primary outcome variables: Neck disability index score (P ϭ 0.025) and overall success (P ϭ 0.010). With regard to implant-or implant/surgical-procedure-associated serious adverse events, the investigational group had a rate of 1.7% and the control group, 3.2%. There was no statistical difference between the 2 groups with regard to the rate of secondary surgical procedures performed subsequent to the index procedure. Patients who received the artificial cervical disc returned to work nearly 2 weeks earlier than the fusion patients (P ϭ 0.015). Conclusion. Two-year follow-up results indicate that cervical disc arthroplasty is a viable alternative to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in patients with persistently symptomatic, single-level cervical disc disease.

Neurosurgery, 2000

OBJECTIVE Although several clinical applications of transpedicular screw fixation in the cervical... more OBJECTIVE Although several clinical applications of transpedicular screw fixation in the cervical spine have been documented recently, few anatomic studies concerning the cervical pedicle are available. This study was designed to evaluate the anatomy and adjacent neural relationships of the middle and lower cervical pedicle (C3–C7). The main objective is to provide accurate information for transpedicular screw fixation in the cervical region and to minimize complications by providing a three-dimensional orientation. METHODS Twenty cadavers were used to observe the cervical pedicle and its relationships. After removal of the posterior bony elements, including spinous processes, laminae, lateral masses, and inferior and superior facets, the isthmus of the pedicle was exposed. Pedicle width, pedicle height, interpedicular distance, pedicle-inferior nerve root distance, pedicle-superior nerve root distance, pedicle-dural sac distance, medial pedicle-dural sac distance, mean angle of the...

Neurosurgical Focus, 2003

In recent years our understanding of spinal fusion biology has improved. This includes the contin... more In recent years our understanding of spinal fusion biology has improved. This includes the continued elucidation of the step-by-step cellular and molecular events involved in the prototypic bone induction cascade, as well as the identification and characterization of the various critical growth factors governing the process of bone formation and bone graft incorporation. Based on these fundamental principles, growth factor technology has been exploited in an attempt to improve rates of spinal fusion, and promising results have been realized in preclinical animal studies and initial clinical human studies. In this article the authors review the recent advances in the biology of bone fusion and provide a perspective on the future of spinal fusion, a future that will very likely include increased graft fusion rates and improved patient outcome as a result of the successful translation of fundamental bone fusion principles to the bedside.

Neurosurgical Focus, 2013

Object Evidence-based medicine is used to examine the current treatment options, timing of surgic... more Object Evidence-based medicine is used to examine the current treatment options, timing of surgical intervention, and prognostic factors in the management of patients with traumatic central cord syndrome (TCCS). Methods A computerized literature search of the National Library of Medicine database, Cochrane database, and Google Scholar was performed for published material between January 1966 and February 2013 using key words and Medical Subject Headings. s were reviewed and selected, with the articles segregated into 3 main categories: surgical versus conservative management, timing of surgery, and prognostic factors. Evidentiary tables were then assembled, summarizing data and quality of evidence (Classes I–III) for papers included in this review. Results The authors compiled 3 evidentiary tables summarizing 16 studies, all of which were retrospective in design. Regarding surgical intervention versus conservative management, there was Class III evidence to support the superiority o...

Neurosurgical Focus, 2003

Object The use of microendoscopic discectomy (MED) for the treatment of primary lumbar disc herni... more Object The use of microendoscopic discectomy (MED) for the treatment of primary lumbar disc herniations has become fairly well accepted; its role in recurrent disc herniations is less clear. The reluctance of many surgeons to use this technique stems, in part, from the concern of undertaking an endoscopic discectomy in a patient in whom the anatomy is distorted from a previous operation. It appears counterintuitive to operate through a limited working area when the traditional open approach for recurrence favors wider exposure of the surgical field. Given that operating on previously exposed tissue can be associated with even greater morbidity than on virginal tissue, the authors describe their experience with performing MED for recurrent disc herniation. Methods Unilateral MED was performed in patients with classic symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy, a previous operation at that level, and findings of recurrent disc herniation on magnetic resonance imaging. The approach was similar t...

Journal of neurosurgery, Jul 1, 2016

The International Journal of Spine Surgery, May 7, 2021

European Spine Journal, 2008

Lumbar spinal fusion is advancing with minimally invasive techniques, bone graft alternatives, an... more Lumbar spinal fusion is advancing with minimally invasive techniques, bone graft alternatives, and new implants. This has resulted in significant reductions of operative time, duration of hospitalization, and higher success in fusion rates. However, costs have increased as many new technologies are expensive. This study was carried out to investigate the clinical outcomes and fusion rates of a low implant load construct of unilateral pedicle screws and a translaminar screw in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) which reduced the cost of the posterior implants by almost 50%. Nineteen consecutive patients who underwent single level TLIF with this construct were included in the study. Sixteen patients had a TLIF allograft interbody spacer placed, while in three a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage was used. Follow-up ranged from 15 to 54 months with a mean of 32 months. A clinical and radiographic evaluation was carried out preoperatively and at multiple time points following surgery. An overall improvement in Oswestry scores and visual analogue scales for leg and back pain (VAS) was observed. Three patients underwent revision surgery due to recurrence of back pain. All patients showed radiographic evidence of fusion from 9 to 26 months (mean 19) following surgery. This study suggests that unilateral pedicle screws and a contralateral translaminar screw are a cheaper and viable option for single level lumbar fusion.

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2021

OBJECTIVE Circumferential minimally invasive spine surgery (cMIS) for adult scoliosis has become ... more OBJECTIVE Circumferential minimally invasive spine surgery (cMIS) for adult scoliosis has become more advanced and powerful, but direct comparison with traditional open correction using prospectively collected data is limited. The authors performed a retrospective review of prospectively collected, multicenter adult spinal deformity data. The authors directly compared cMIS for adult scoliosis with open correction in propensity-matched cohorts using health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) measures and surgical parameters. METHODS Data from a prospective, multicenter adult spinal deformity database were retrospectively reviewed. Inclusion criteria were age > 18 years, minimum 1-year follow-up, and one of the following characteristics: pelvic tilt (PT) > 25°, pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) > 10°, Cobb angle > 20°, or sagittal vertical axis (SVA) > 5 cm. Patients were categorized as undergoing cMIS (percutaneous screws with minimally invasive anterior inter...

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2020

OBJECTIVESurgical decision-making and planning is a key factor in optimizing outcomes in adult sp... more OBJECTIVESurgical decision-making and planning is a key factor in optimizing outcomes in adult spinal deformity (ASD). Minimally invasive spinal (MIS) strategies for ASD have been increasingly used as an option to decrease postoperative morbidity. This study analyzes factors involved in the selection of either a traditional open approach or a minimally invasive approach to treat ASD in a prospective, nonrandomized multicenter trial. All centers had at least 5 years of experience in minimally invasive techniques for ASD.METHODSThe study enrolled 268 patients, of whom 120 underwent open surgery and 148 underwent MIS surgery. Inclusion criteria included age ≥ 18 years, and at least one of the following criteria: coronal curve (CC) ≥ 20°, sagittal vertical axis (SVA) > 5 cm, pelvic tilt (PT) > 25°, or thoracic kyphosis (TK) > 60°. Surgical approach selection was made at the discretion of the operating surgeon. Preoperative significant differences were included in a multivariate...

Neurosurgery, 2018

INTRODUCTION: There has been an increasing focus on the importance of patient-reported outcomes (... more INTRODUCTION: There has been an increasing focus on the importance of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in spine surgery. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) is one of the most commonly used PRO instruments, but is limited by the time and effort required to complete the 10 question survey. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is an alternative means of measuring physical, mental, and social health that can be applied to spinal surgery outcomes. This study assesses whether a simpler and quicker 4 question survey from the PROMIS initiative could be a surrogate for the ODI. METHODS: Patients evaluated in the adult neurosurgery spine clinic at a single institution were included. Patients filled out ODI, PROMIS 4 question Physical Function Scale, and PROMIS 4 question Pain Scale at various time points including baseline, 1 yr, and more. Standard descriptive statistical analysis and correlation calculations were utilized on all surveys, baseline surveys, and 1-yr follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 343 sets of completed surveys were obtained involving patients seen at the initial visit and those who in follow-up after surgery. There were a total of 147 baseline surveys. The physical function and pain scale correlations with ODI were 0.7 (P < .00001) and 0.69 (P < .00001), respectively. These results demonstrate strong and moderate positive correlations. There were a total of 52 1-yr follow-up surveys. The physical function and pain scale correlations with ODI were 0.86 (P < .00001) and 0.88 (P < .00001), respectively. These results demonstrate strong positive correlations. CONCLUSION: There appears to be a strong positive correlation between ODI and both 4 question scales provided by the PROMIS initiative. Given the strong positive correlation noted on these scales, we can consider replacing the cumbersome ODI with a more efficient questionnaire with hopes of more reliable completion and less burden for the patients and providers.

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2019

OBJECTIVEMinimally invasive surgery (MIS) can be used as an alternative or adjunct to traditional... more OBJECTIVEMinimally invasive surgery (MIS) can be used as an alternative or adjunct to traditional open techniques for the treatment of patients with adult spinal deformity. Recent advances in MIS techniques, including advanced anterior approaches, have increased the range of candidates for MIS deformity surgery. The minimally invasive spinal deformity surgery (MISDEF2) algorithm was created to provide an updated framework for decision-making when considering MIS techniques in correction of adult spinal deformity.METHODSA modified algorithm was developed that incorporates a patient’s preoperative radiographic parameters and leads to one of 4 general plans ranging from basic to advanced MIS techniques to open deformity surgery with osteotomies. The authors surveyed 14 fellowship-trained spine surgeons experienced with spinal deformity surgery to validate the algorithm using a set of 24 cases to establish interobserver reliability. They then re-surveyed the same surgeons 2 months later...

International Journal of Spine Surgery

Background: The clinical efficacy of single-level minimally invasive lumbar decompression and/or ... more Background: The clinical efficacy of single-level minimally invasive lumbar decompression and/or microdiscectomy is well established, with improved postoperative functional outcome and pain scores. However, there is a paucity of clinical data supporting the use of minimally invasive (MIS) techniques in a single operation to address pathology at multiple lumbar levels, and this study attempts to address this issue. Methods: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data from patients with symptomatic lumbar stenosis and/or disc herniations who underwent multilevel minimally invasive decompression or microdiscectomy from November 2014 to February 2018 was conducted at a single academic medical center. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) Physical Component Summary Score (PCS) and Mental Component Summary Score (MCS), and Scoliosis Research Society survey (SRS-30), were prospectively collected before surgery and at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. Results: During the study period, 92 patients received multilevel (!2 level) MIS lumbar decompression and/or discectomy (69 two level, 21 three level, 2 four level). The mean age at surgery was 69.7 years, and 23 (25%) patients were women. Patient-reported outcomes were significantly improved both in the short and long term except for the SF-12 MCS.

Journal of Neuroanaesthesiology and Critical Care

Intraoperative neuromonitoring is recommended as standard practice for corrective scoliosis surge... more Intraoperative neuromonitoring is recommended as standard practice for corrective scoliosis surgery. Common methods include somatosensory-evoked potentials (SSEPs) and transcranial motor-evoked potentials (TcMEPs), which have been shown to have a high diagnostic accuracy in detecting new neurological deficits postoperatively. Sequential compression devices (SCDs) are a common method for thromboprophylaxis in spine surgery and are not known to have many device-related complications. To date, there have been no reports of lower extremity ischemia secondary to SCD deflation failure detected by multimodality neuromonitoring during minimally invasive posterior spine surgery. We, therefore, present a case report of an 18-year-old male with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent minimally invasive posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation. Intraoperative decrease in SSEPs and TcMEPs were noted in the left leg shortly after incision before any instrumentation or reduction occurred...

Medicina

Background and Objectives: The use of minimally invasive retractor systems has significantly decr... more Background and Objectives: The use of minimally invasive retractor systems has significantly decreased the amount of tissue dissection and blood loss, and the duration of post-operative recovery after far-lateral disc herniations (FLDH). In this technical note, the technique of docking the tubular retractor on the caudal transverse process is described for an efficient approach with a decreased need for manipulation of the exiting nerve root. Materials and Methods: The case reported is that of a woman affected by a right-sided FLDH at the L4–5 level causing an L4 radiculopathy with weakness and numbness. A review of the literature for FLDH regarding the key anatomy used during a far lateral approach was also performed. Results: The patient showed a significant improvement of her dorsiflexion weakness and radiating leg pain at her 2-week and 5-week post-operative visits, and at a 6-month follow-up she had near-complete relief of her symptoms, including resolution of foot numbness. Pr...

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine

OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of 3 escalating doses of... more OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of 3 escalating doses of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (LCTOPC1; previously known as GRNOPC1 and AST-OPC1) administered at a single time point between 21 and 42 days postinjury to participants with subacute cervical spinal cord injuries (SCIs). The secondary objective was to evaluate changes in neurological function following administration of LCTOPC1. METHODS This study was designed as an open-label, dose-escalation, multicenter clinical trial. Twenty-five participants with C4–7 American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade A or B injuries received a single dose of either 2 × 106, 1 × 107, or 2 × 107 LCTOPC1 delivered via intraparenchymal injection into the spinal cord at the site of injury using a custom-designed syringe positioning device. Low-dose tacrolimus was administered until day 60. Outcome measures included adverse event (AE) monitoring and neurological function as measured by the Inte...

Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of oligodendrocyte progenitor cell... more OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (LCTOPC1) derived from human pluripotent stem cells administered between 7 and 14 days postinjury to patients with T3 to T11 neurologically complete spinal cord injury (SCI). The rationale for this first-in-human trial was based on evidence that administration of LCTOPC1 supports survival and potential repair of key cellular components and architecture at the SCI site. METHODS This study was a multisite, open-label, single-arm interventional clinical trial. Participants (n = 5) received a single intraparenchymal injection of 2 × 106 LCTOPC1 caudal to the epicenter of injury using a syringe positioning device. Immunosuppression with tacrolimus was administered for a total of 60 days. Participants were followed with annual in-person examinations and MRI for 5 years at the time of this report and will be followed with annual telephone questionnaires for 6 to 15 years postinjection. The pr...

Medicines, 2020

Background: Although many therapeutic approaches have been attempted to treat spinal cord injury,... more Background: Although many therapeutic approaches have been attempted to treat spinal cord injury, cellular transplantation offers the greatest promise in reconstituting the architecture of the damaged cord. Methods: A literature review was conducted to search for clinical trials investigating stem cells as treatment for spinal cord injury in the United States. Results: Overall, eight studies met inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, four were identified as being terminated, suspended, or not yet recruiting. Two studies were identified as currently recruiting, including one phase one trial evaluating stereotactic injections of human spinal cord-derived neural stem cells in patients with chronic spinal cord injuries, and one trial of transplantation of autologous bone marrow derived stem cells via paraspinal injections, intravenous injections, and intranasal placement. One study was identified as an active study, a phase one trial of intrathecal injection of 100 million autolog...

Journal of Spine Surgery, 2020

Posterior atlantoaxial fusion is an important surgical technique frequently used to treat various... more Posterior atlantoaxial fusion is an important surgical technique frequently used to treat various pathologies involving the cervical 1-2 joint. Since the beginning of the 20th century, various fusion techniques have been developed with improved safety profile, higher fusion rates, and superior clinical outcome. Despite the advancement of technology and surgical techniques, posterior C1-2 fusion is still a technically challenging procedure given the complex bony and neurovascular anatomy in the craniovertebral junction (CVJ). In addition, vascular anomalies in this region are not uncommon and can lead to devastating neurovascular complications if unrecognized. Thus, it is important for spine surgeons to be familiar with various posterior atlantoaxial fusion techniques along with a thorough knowledge of various vascular anomalies in the CVJ. Intimate knowledge of the various surgical techniques in combination with an appreciation for anatomical variances, allows the surgeon develop a customized surgical plan tailored to each patient's particular pathology and individual anatomy. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of existing posterior C1-2 fusion techniques along with a review of common vascular anomalies in the CVJ.

Neurosurgical focus, 2017

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to educate medical professionals about potential financial im... more OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to educate medical professionals about potential financial impacts of improper diagnosis-related group (DRG) coding in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. METHODS Medicare's Inpatient Prospective Payment System PC Pricer database was used to collect 2015 reimbursement data for ASD procedures from 12 hospitals. Case type, hospital type/location, number of operative levels, proper coding, length of stay, and complications/comorbidities (CCs) were analyzed for effects on reimbursement. DRGs were used to categorize cases into 3 types: 1) anterior or posterior only fusion, 2) anterior fusion with posterior percutaneous fixation with no dorsal fusion, and 3) combined anterior and posterior fixation and fusion. RESULTS Pooling institutions, cases were reimbursed the same for single-level and multilevel ASD surgery. Longer stay, from 3 to 8 days, resulted in an additional 1400perstay.Posteriorfusionwasanadditional1400 per stay. Posterior fusion was an additional 1400perstay.Posteriorfusionwasanadditional6588, while CCs increased ...

Spine, 2009

Study Design. A prospective, randomized, multicenter study of surgical treatment of cervical disc... more Study Design. A prospective, randomized, multicenter study of surgical treatment of cervical disc disease. Objective. To assess the safety and efficacy of cervical disc arthroplasty using a new arthroplasty device at 24months follow-up. Summary of Background Data. Cervical disc arthroplasty preserves motion in the cervical spine. It is an alternative to fusion after neurologic decompression, whereas anterior decompression and fusion provides a rigorous comparative benchmark of success. Methods. We conducted a randomized controlled multicenter clinical trial enrolling patients with cervical disc disease. Ultimately 242 received the investigational device (Bryan Cervical Disc), and 221 patients underwent a single-level anterior cervical discectomy and decompression and fusion as a control group. Patients completed clinical and radiographic follow-up examinations at regular intervals for 2 years after surgery. Results. Analysis of 12-and 24-month postoperative data showed improvement in all clinical outcome measures for both groups; however, 24 months after surgery, the investigational group patients treated with the artificial disc had a statistically greater improvement in the primary outcome variables: Neck disability index score (P ϭ 0.025) and overall success (P ϭ 0.010). With regard to implant-or implant/surgical-procedure-associated serious adverse events, the investigational group had a rate of 1.7% and the control group, 3.2%. There was no statistical difference between the 2 groups with regard to the rate of secondary surgical procedures performed subsequent to the index procedure. Patients who received the artificial cervical disc returned to work nearly 2 weeks earlier than the fusion patients (P ϭ 0.015). Conclusion. Two-year follow-up results indicate that cervical disc arthroplasty is a viable alternative to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in patients with persistently symptomatic, single-level cervical disc disease.

Neurosurgery, 2000

OBJECTIVE Although several clinical applications of transpedicular screw fixation in the cervical... more OBJECTIVE Although several clinical applications of transpedicular screw fixation in the cervical spine have been documented recently, few anatomic studies concerning the cervical pedicle are available. This study was designed to evaluate the anatomy and adjacent neural relationships of the middle and lower cervical pedicle (C3–C7). The main objective is to provide accurate information for transpedicular screw fixation in the cervical region and to minimize complications by providing a three-dimensional orientation. METHODS Twenty cadavers were used to observe the cervical pedicle and its relationships. After removal of the posterior bony elements, including spinous processes, laminae, lateral masses, and inferior and superior facets, the isthmus of the pedicle was exposed. Pedicle width, pedicle height, interpedicular distance, pedicle-inferior nerve root distance, pedicle-superior nerve root distance, pedicle-dural sac distance, medial pedicle-dural sac distance, mean angle of the...

Neurosurgical Focus, 2003

In recent years our understanding of spinal fusion biology has improved. This includes the contin... more In recent years our understanding of spinal fusion biology has improved. This includes the continued elucidation of the step-by-step cellular and molecular events involved in the prototypic bone induction cascade, as well as the identification and characterization of the various critical growth factors governing the process of bone formation and bone graft incorporation. Based on these fundamental principles, growth factor technology has been exploited in an attempt to improve rates of spinal fusion, and promising results have been realized in preclinical animal studies and initial clinical human studies. In this article the authors review the recent advances in the biology of bone fusion and provide a perspective on the future of spinal fusion, a future that will very likely include increased graft fusion rates and improved patient outcome as a result of the successful translation of fundamental bone fusion principles to the bedside.

Neurosurgical Focus, 2013

Object Evidence-based medicine is used to examine the current treatment options, timing of surgic... more Object Evidence-based medicine is used to examine the current treatment options, timing of surgical intervention, and prognostic factors in the management of patients with traumatic central cord syndrome (TCCS). Methods A computerized literature search of the National Library of Medicine database, Cochrane database, and Google Scholar was performed for published material between January 1966 and February 2013 using key words and Medical Subject Headings. s were reviewed and selected, with the articles segregated into 3 main categories: surgical versus conservative management, timing of surgery, and prognostic factors. Evidentiary tables were then assembled, summarizing data and quality of evidence (Classes I–III) for papers included in this review. Results The authors compiled 3 evidentiary tables summarizing 16 studies, all of which were retrospective in design. Regarding surgical intervention versus conservative management, there was Class III evidence to support the superiority o...

Neurosurgical Focus, 2003

Object The use of microendoscopic discectomy (MED) for the treatment of primary lumbar disc herni... more Object The use of microendoscopic discectomy (MED) for the treatment of primary lumbar disc herniations has become fairly well accepted; its role in recurrent disc herniations is less clear. The reluctance of many surgeons to use this technique stems, in part, from the concern of undertaking an endoscopic discectomy in a patient in whom the anatomy is distorted from a previous operation. It appears counterintuitive to operate through a limited working area when the traditional open approach for recurrence favors wider exposure of the surgical field. Given that operating on previously exposed tissue can be associated with even greater morbidity than on virginal tissue, the authors describe their experience with performing MED for recurrent disc herniation. Methods Unilateral MED was performed in patients with classic symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy, a previous operation at that level, and findings of recurrent disc herniation on magnetic resonance imaging. The approach was similar t...