Journal of neurosurgery. Spine
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Implanted intrathecal drug delivery systems may malfunction as a result of fracture of the intrathecal catheter. A suspected catheter fracture not seen on plain radiographs of the catheter system will typically prompt a contrast-enhanced imaging study of the pump. Injection of iodinated contrast medium into the pump system with routine fluoroscopy can sometimes fail to reveal subtle leaks. ⋯ The leak was visible on source images and was especially obvious after 3D reconstruction. This led to surgical revision of the catheter and subsequent resumption of normal pump function. The authors therefore suggest that if a leak is suspected in an implanted intrathecal catheter and routine contrast fluoroscopy is unrevealing, post-injection 3D-CT scanning should be performed to further investigate the possibility of a subtle leak.
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In this paper the authors' goal was to determine the factors associated with the progression of degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS). ⋯ The findings of this study demonstrated that the progression of DLS was affected by the relationship between the intercrest line and the L-5 vertebra. When L-5 was deep seated, progression of DLS was found. Asymmetrical change in the disc space above and below the L-3 or apical vertebra may also be an important predictor of curve progression.
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Spinal extradural (epidural) arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are uncommon vascular lesions of the spine with arteriovenous shunting located primarily in the epidural venous plexus. Understanding the complex anatomical variations of these uncommon lesions is important for management. The authors describe the different types of spinal extradural AVFs and their endovascular management using Onyx. ⋯ The current description of the different types of spinal extradural AVFs can help in understanding their pathophysiology and guide management. DynaCT was found to be useful in understanding the complex anatomy of these lesions. Endovascular treatment with Onyx is a good alternative for spinal extradural AVF management.
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The thoracolumbar junction is frequently accessed through an anterolateral approach with the incision and muscle dissection extending from the lower thoracic region to the lateral border of the rectus abdominis muscle. This approach is frequently associated with the subsequent development of an unsightly and uncomfortable relaxation of the ipsilateral abdominal wall, or flank bulge, caused by denervation injury to the intercostal nerves. However, the etiology of this complication is not widely recognized by spine surgeons. The object of this study was to better define the relevant anatomy and innervation of the anterolateral abdominal wall musculature. ⋯ The authors classified the 3 potential zones of injury that can be affected during an anterolateral approach to the thoracolumbar junction. Modifications to the operative technique are suggested to avoid the complication of flank bulge. The most significant intercostal nerve contributions to the anterolateral abdominal wall arise from T11 and T12.
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An anterior approach to spinal pathology of the upper thoracic spine through a partial manubriotomy.
Surgical pathology in the region of the upper thoracic spine (T1-4) is uncommon compared with other regions of the spine. Often times posterior and posterolateral approaches can be used, but formal anterior decompression often requires a low anterior cervical approach combined with a sternotomy, which yields significant perioperative morbidity. The authors describe a modified low anterior cervical dissection combined with a partial manubriotomy that they have used to successfully access and decompress anterior pathology of the upper thoracic spine. Their modified approach spares the sternoclavicular joints and leaves the sternum intact, decreasing the morbidity associated with these added procedures.