Browsing by Author "Bess, S"
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Item Open Access 166 Predictive Modeling of Length of Hospital Stay Following Adult Spinal Deformity Correction: Analysis of 653 Patients With an Accuracy of 75% Within 2 Days(Neurosurgery, 2016-08-01) Scheer, JK; Ailon, TT; Smith, JS; Hart, R; Burton, DC; Bess, S; Neuman, BJ; Passias, PG; Miller, E; Shaffrey, CI; Schwab, F; Lafage, V; Klineberg, E; Ames, CPINTRODUCTION: The length of stay (LOS) following adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery is a critical time period allowing for recovery to levels safe enough to return home or to rehabilitation. Thus, the goal is to minimize it for conserving hospital resources and third-party payer pressure. Factors related to LOS have not been studied nor has a predictive model been created. The goal of this study was to construct a preadmission predictive model based on patients' baseline variables and modifiable surgical parameters.Item Open Access A comparative cohort study of surgical approaches for adult spinal deformity at a minimum 2-year follow-up(European Spine Journal, 2024-01-01) Kazarian, GS; Feuchtbaum, E; Bao, H; Soroceanu, A; Kelly, MP; Kebaish, KM; Shaffrey, CI; Burton, DC; Ames, CP; Mundis, GM; Bess, S; Klineberg, EO; Swamy, G; Schwab, FJ; Kim, HJStudy design: This study was a retrospective multi-center comparative cohort study. Materials and methods: A retrospective institutional database of operative adult spinal deformity patients was utilized. All fusions > 5 vertebral levels and including the sacrum/pelvis were eligible for inclusion. Revisions, 3 column osteotomies, and patients with < 2-year clinical follow-up were excluded. Patients were separated into 3 groups based on surgical approach: 1) posterior spinal fusion without interbody (PSF), 2) PSF with interbody (PSF-IB), and 3) anteroposterior (AP) fusion (anterior lumbar interbody fusion or lateral lumbar interbody fusion with posterior screw fixation). Intraoperative, radiographic, and clinical outcomes, as well as complications, were compared between groups with ANOVA and χ2 tests. Results: One-hundred and thirty-eight patients were included for study (PSF, n = 37; PSF-IB, n = 44; AP, n = 57). Intraoperatively, estimated blood loss was similar between groups (p = 0.171). However, the AP group had longer operative times (547.5 min) compared to PSF (385.1) and PSF-IB (370.7) (p < 0.001). Additionally, fusion length was shorter in PSF-IB (11.4) compared to AP (13.6) and PSF (12.9) (p = 0.004). There were no differences between the groups in terms of change in alignment from preoperative to 2 years postoperative. There were no differences in clinical outcomes. While postoperative complications were largely similar between groups, operative complications were higher in the AP group (31.6%) compared to the PSF (5.4%) and PSF-IB (9.1) groups (p < 0.001). Conclusion: While there were differences in intraoperative outcomes (operative time and fusion length), there were no differences in postoperative clinical or radiographic outcomes. AP fusion was associated with a higher rate of operative complications.Item Open Access Adult Spinal Deformity Surgeons Are Unable to Accurately Predict Postoperative Spinal Alignment Using Clinical Judgment Alone(Spine Deformity, 2016-07-01) Ailon, T; Scheer, JK; Lafage, V; Schwab, FJ; Klineberg, E; Sciubba, DM; Protopsaltis, TS; Zebala, L; Hostin, R; Obeid, I; Koski, T; Kelly, MP; Bess, S; Shaffrey, CI; Smith, JS; Ames, CPObject Adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery seeks to reduce disability and improve quality of life through restoration of spinal alignment. In particular, correction of sagittal malalignment is correlated with patient outcome. Inadequate correction of sagittal deformity is not infrequent. The present study assessed surgeons' ability to accurately predict postoperative alignment. Methods Seventeen cases were presented with preoperative radiographic measurements, and a summary of the operation as performed by the treating physician. Surgeon training, practice characteristics, and use of surgical planning software was assessed. Participants predicted if the surgical plan would lead to adequate deformity correction and attempted to predict postoperative radiographic parameters including sagittal vertical axis (SVA), pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic incidence to lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL), thoracic kyphosis (TK). Results Seventeen surgeons participated: 71% within 0 to 10 years of practice; 88% devote >25% of their practice to deformity surgery. Surgeons accurately judged adequacy of the surgical plan to achieve correction to specific thresholds of SVA 69% ± 8%, PT 68% ± 9%, and PI-LL 68% ± 11% of the time. However, surgeons correctly predicted the actual postoperative radiographic parameters only 42% ± 6% of the time. They were more successful at predicting PT (61% ± 10%) than SVA (45% ± 8%), PI-LL (26% ± 11%), or TK change (35% ± 21%; p <.05). Improved performance correlated with greater focus on deformity but not number of years in practice or number of three-column osteotomies performed per year. Conclusion Surgeons failed to correctly predict the adequacy of the proposed surgical plan in approximately one third of presented cases. They were better at determining whether a surgical plan would achieve adequate correction than predicting specific postoperative alignment parameters. Pelvic tilt and SVA were predicted with the greatest accuracy.Item Open Access Assessment of impact of standing long-cassette radiographs on surgical planning for lumbar pathology: An international survey of spine surgeons(Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2015-11-01) Maggio, D; Ailon, TT; Smith, JS; Shaffrey, CI; Lafage, V; Schwab, F; Haid, RW; Protopsaltis, T; Klineberg, E; Scheer, JK; Bess, S; Arnold, PM; Chapman, J; Fehlings, MG; Ames, COBJECT: The associations among global spinal alignment, patient-reported disability, and surgical outcomes have increasingly gained attention. The assessment of global spinal alignment requires standing long-cassette anteroposterior and lateral radiographs; however, spine surgeons routinely rely only on short-segment imaging when evaluating seemingly isolated lumbar pathology. This may prohibit adequate surgical planning and may predispose surgeons to not recognize associated pathology in the thoracic spine and sagittal spinopelvic malalignment. The authors used a case-based survey questionnaire to evaluate if including long-cassette radiographs led to changes to respondents' operative plans as compared with their chosen plan when cases contained standard imaging of the involved lumbar spine only. METHODS: A case-based survey was distributed to AOSpine International members that consisted of 15 cases of lumbar spine pathology and lumbar imaging only. The same 15 cases were then shuffled and presented a second time with additional long-cassette radiographs. Each case required participants to select a single operative plan with 5 choices ranging from least to most extensive. The cases included 5 "control" cases with normal global spinal alignment and 10 "test" cases with significant sagittal and/or coronal malalignment. Mean scores were determined for each question with higher scores representing more invasive and/or extensive operative plans. RESULTS: Of 712 spine surgeons who started the survey, 316 (44%) completed the entire series, including 68% of surgeons with spine fellowship training and representation from more than 40 countries. For test cases, but not for control cases, there were significantly higher average surgical invasiveness scores for cases presented with long-cassette radiographs (4.2) as compared with those cases with lumbar imaging only (3.4; p = 0.002). The addition of long-cassette radiographs resulted in 82.1% of respondents recommending instrumentation up to the thoracic spine, a 23.2% increase as compared with the same cases presented with lumbar imaging only (p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the importance of maintaining a low threshold for performing standing long-cassette imaging when assessing seemingly isolated lumbar pathology. Such imaging is necessary for the assessment of spinopelvic and global spinal alignment, which can be important in operative planning. Deformity, particularly positive sagittal malalignment, may go undetected unless one maintains a high index of suspicion and obtains long-cassette radiographs. It is recommended that spine surgeons recognize the prevalence and importance of such deformity when contemplating operative intervention.Item Open Access Clinical Impact Correlation of a Delphi-Based Proximal Junctional Kyphosis Severity Scale and HRQOL(Global Spine Journal, 2015-05-01) Lau, D; Funao, H; Clark, A; Smith, J; Bess, S; Shaffrey, C; Schwab, F; Lafage, V; Deviren, V; Hart, R; Kebaish, K; Ames, CIntroduction Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and proximal junctional failure (PJF) are adverse outcomes following adult spinal surgery (ASD) surgery. There is a lack of consensus regarding which patients (pts) require revision surgery. The Hart ISSG PJK severity scale correlates with the need for revision surgery. This study evaluates the Hart International Spine Study Group (ISSG) PJK severity scale and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures in pts with PJK. Patients and Methods All ASD pts with PJK and/or PJF who eventually underwent revision surgery were identified from two large academic medical centers. Pts were retrospectively assigned scores based on the Hart ISSG PJK severity scale: neurological status, focal pain, instrumentation problem, kyphosis severity/PLC integrity, UIV/UIV + 1 fracture, and level of UIV. Scores range from 0 to 15. Pre-PJK revision HRQOL measures included: Oswestry disability index (ODI), short-form 36 (SF-36), and Scoliosis Research Society questionnaire (SRS30). Scores were subcategorized into 0 to 2, 3 to 5, 6 to 8, 9 to 11, and 12 to 15, and differences in HRQOL outcomes were determined with linear regression. Correlation was assessed with a Pearson correlation coefficient. Results A total of 54 cases were included, out of which 31.5% were male, and the mean age was 64.9 years. The Hart ISSG PJK severity scale scores ranged from 4 to 15, with the median being 8. PJK/PJF occurred in the upper thoracic spine in 24.1% of the cases. 54.8% had fractures and 77.8% had instrumentation issues. Overall, 55.6% had neurological deficits, with 16.7% having weakness and/or myelopathy. All pts had preoperative pain (median VAS 9/10). While statistical significance on linear regression was not seen, there were obvious trends that correlated with the Hart ISSG PJK severity scale. Higher Hart ISSG PJK severity scale scores were associated with higher ODI (p = 0.283, r = 0.350), lower SRS30 function (p = 0.821, r = −0.323), and lower SRS mental (p = 0.646, r = −0.592). Conclusion The Hart ISSG PJK severity scale has been shown to be predictive in the decision making of when patients require revision surgery. Based on the current study, it may also correlate with functional outcomes, specifically ODI and SRS30 components.Item Open Access Clinically Significant Thromboembolic Disease in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery: Incidence and Risk Factors in 737 Patients(Global Spine Journal, 2018-05-01) Kim, HJ; Iyer, S; Diebo, BG; Kelly, MP; Sciubba, D; Schwab, F; Lafage, V; Mundis, GM; Shaffrey, CI; Smith, JS; Hart, R; Burton, D; Bess, S; Klineberg, EOStudy Design: Retrospective cohort study. Objectives: Describe the rate and risk factors for venous thromboembolic events (VTEs; defined as deep venous thrombosis [DVT] and/or pulmonary embolism [PE]) in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. Methods: ASD patients with VTE were identified in a prospective, multicenter database. Complications, revision, and mortality rate were examined. Patient demographics, operative details, and radiographic and clinical outcomes were compared with a non-VTE group. Multivariate binary regression model was used to identify predictors of VTE. Results: A total of 737 patients were identified, 32 (4.3%) had VTE (DVT = 14; PE = 18). At baseline, VTE patients were less likely to be employed in jobs requiring physical labor (59.4% vs 79.7%, P <.01) and more likely to have osteoporosis (29% vs 15.1%, P =.037) and liver disease (6.5% vs 1.4%, P =.027). Patients with VTE had a larger preoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA; 93 mm vs 55 mm, P <.01) and underwent larger SVA corrections. VTE was associated with a combined anterior/posterior approach (45% vs 25%, P =.028). VTE patients had a longer hospital stay (10 vs 7 days, P <.05) and higher mortality rate (6.3% vs 0.7%, P <.01). Multivariate analysis demonstrated osteoporosis, lack of physical labor, and increased SVA correction were independent predictors of VTE (r2 =.11, area under the curve = 0.74, P <.05). Conclusions: The incidence of VTE in ASD is 4.3% with a DVT rate of 1.9% and PE rate of 2.4%. Osteoporosis, lack of physical labor, and increased SVA correction were independent predictors of VTE. Patients with VTE had a higher mortality rate compared with non-VTE patients.Item Open Access Comparison of Best versus Worst Clinical Outcomes for Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery: A Prospective, Multicenter Assessment with Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up(Global Spine Journal, 2015-05-01) Smith, J; Shaffrey, C; Lafage, V; Schwab, F; Protopsaltis, T; Klineberg, E; Gupta, M; Hostin, R; Ming-Fu, K; Soroceanu, A; Hart, R; Burton, D; Bess, S; Ames, CIntroduction Adults with spinal deformity typically present with pain and disability. Our objective was to compare outcomes for op and nonop treatment for ASD based on a prospective, multicenter patient population. Patients and Methods This is a multicenter, prospective analysis of consecutive patients with ASD electing for op or non-op care at enrollment. Inclusion criteria are age < 18 years and ASD. Propensity scores were used to match an op and nonop patients based on baseline (BL) ODI, SRS22, maximum thoracolumbar/lumbar Cobb angle, pelvic incidence to lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI–LL), and leg pain numeric rating scale (NRS) score. Results A total of 689 patients met criteria, including 286 op and 403 non-op, with mean ages of 53 and 55 years, minimum 2-year follow-up rates of 86 and 55%, and mean follow-up of 24.7 and 24.8 months, respectively. At BL, compared with nonop, op patients had significantly worse HRQL based on ODI, SRS22, SF36, and leg and back pain NRS (p > 0.001) and had worse deformity based on pelvic tilt, PI–LL, and C7SVA (p > 0.002). Before reaching minimum 2-year follow-up, 38 non-op patients converted to op treatment and were analyzed in the op group. At minimum 2-year follow-up, all HRQL measures assessed significantly improved for op patients (p > 0.001), but none of these measures improved significantly for non-op patients (p < 0.11). Overall, 97 matched op–non-op pairs were identified based on propensity scores. At last follow-up, the 97 matched op patients had significant improvement in all HRQL measures assessed (p > 0.001), but the 97 matched non-op patients lacked significant improvement in any of the HRQL measures (p < 0.20). Paired op–non-op analysis demonstrated the op patients to have significantly better HRQL scores at follow-up for all measures assessed (p > 0.001), except SF36 MCS (p = 0.058). Overall minor and major complication rates for op patients were 53 and 40%, respectively. Conclusion Op treatment for ASD can provide significant improvement of HRQL measures at minimum 2-year follow-up. In contrast, non-op treatment appears to at best maintain presenting levels of pain and disability.Item Open Access Evolving concepts in pelvic fixation in adult spinal deformity surgery(Seminars in Spine Surgery, 2023-01-01) Turner, JD; Schupper, AJ; Mummaneni, PV; Uribe, JS; Eastlack, RK; Mundis, GM; Passias, PG; DiDomenico, JD; Harrison Farber, S; Soliman, MAR; Shaffrey, CI; Klineberg, EO; Daniels, AH; Buell, TJ; Burton, DC; Gum, JL; Lenke, LG; Bess, S; Mullin, JPLong-segment adult spinal deformity (ASD) constructs carry a high risk of mechanical complications. Pelvic fixation was introduced to improve distal construct mechanics and has since become the standard for long constructs spanning the lumbosacral junction. Pelvic fixation strategies have evolved substantially over the years. Numerous techniques now use a variety of entry points, screw trajectories, and construct configurations. We review the various strategies for pelvic fixation in ASD in a systematic review of the literature and update the techniques employed in the International Spine Study Group Complex Adult Deformity Surgery database.Item Open Access Impact of obesity on complications, infection, and patient-reported outcomes in adult spinal deformity surgery(Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2015-11-01) Soroceanu, A; Burton, DC; Diebo, BG; Smith, JS; Hostin, R; Shaffrey, CI; Boachie-Adjei, O; Mundis, GM; Ames, C; Errico, TJ; Bess, S; Gupta, MC; Hart, RA; Schwab, FJ; Lafage, VOBJECT: Adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery is known for its high complication rate. This study examined the impact of obesity on complication rates, infection, and patient-reported outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for ASD. METHODS: This study was a retrospective review of a multicenter prospective database of patients with ASD who were treated surgically. Patients with available 2-year follow-up data were included. Obesity was defined as having a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2. Data collected included complications (total, minor, major, implant-related, radiographic, infection, revision surgery, and neurological injury), estimated blood loss (EBL), operating room (OR) time, length of stay (LOS), and patient-reported questionnaires (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], Short Form-36 [SF-36], and Scoliosis Research Society [SRS]) at baseline and at 6 weeks, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. The impact of obesity was studied using multivariate modeling, accounting for confounders. RESULTS: Of 241 patients who satisfied inclusion criteria, 175 patients were nonobese and 66 were obese. Regression models showed that obese patients had a higher overall incidence of major complications (IRR 1.54, p = 0.02) and wound infections (odds ratio 4.88, p = 0.02). Obesity did not increase the number of minor complications (p = 0.62), radiographic complications (p = 0.62), neurological complications (p = 0.861), or need for revision surgery (p = 0.846). Obesity was not significantly correlated with OR time (p = 0.23), LOS (p = 0.9), or EBL (p = 0.98). Both groups experienced significant improvement over time, as measured on the ODI (p = 0.0001), SF-36 (p = 0.0001), and SRS (p = 0.0001) questionnaires. However, the overall magnitude of improvement was less for obese patients (ODI, p = 0.0035; SF-36, p = 0.0012; SRS, p = 0.022). Obese patients also had a lower rate of improvement over time (SRS, p = 0.0085; ODI, p = 0.0001; SF-36, p = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that obese patients have an increased risk of complications following ASD correction. Despite these increased complications, obese patients do benefit from surgical intervention; however, their improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQL) is less than that of nonobese patients.Item Open Access Intraoperative fluid management in adult spinal deformity surgery: variation analysis and association with outcomes(Spine Deformity, 2024-01-01) Cetik, RM; Gum, JL; Lafage, R; Smith, JS; Bess, S; Mullin, JP; Kelly, MP; Diebo, BG; Buell, TJ; Scheer, JK; Line, BG; Lafage, V; Klineberg, EO; Kim, HJ; Passias, PG; Kebaish, KM; Eastlack, RK; Daniels, AH; Soroceanu, A; Mundis, GM; Hostin, RA; Protopsaltis, TS; Hamilton, DK; Hart, RA; Gupta, MC; Lewis, SJ; Schwab, FJ; Lenke, LG; Shaffrey, CI; Ames, CP; Burton, DCPurpose: To evaluate the variability in intraoperative fluid management during adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery, and analyze the association with complications, intensive care unit (ICU) requirement, and length of hospital stay (LOS). Methods: Multicenter comparative cohort study. Patients ≥ 18 years old and with ASD were included. Intraoperative intravenous (IV) fluid data were collected including: crystalloids, colloids, crystalloid/colloid ratio (C/C), total IV fluid (tIVF, ml), normalized total IV fluid (nIVF, ml/kg/h), input/output ratio (IOR), input–output difference (IOD), and normalized input–output difference (nIOD, ml/kg/h). Data from different centers were compared for variability analysis, and fluid parameters were analyzed for possible associations with the outcomes. Results: Seven hundred ninety-eight patients with a median age of 65.2 were included. Among different surgical centers, tIVF, nIVF, and C/C showed significant variation (p < 0.001 for each) with differences of 4.8-fold, 3.7-fold, and 4.9-fold, respectively. Two hundred ninety-two (36.6%) patients experienced at least one in-hospital complication, and ninety-two (11.5%) were IV fluid related. Univariate analysis showed significant relations for: LOS and tIVF (ρ = 0.221, p < 0.001), IOD (ρ = 0.115, p = 0.001) and IOR (ρ = −0.138, p < 0.001); IV fluid-related complications and tIVF (p = 0.049); ICU stay and tIVF, nIVF, IOD and nIOD (p < 0.001 each); extended ICU stay and tIVF (p < 0.001), nIVF (p = 0.010) and IOD (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis controlling for confounders showed significant relations for: LOS and tIVF (p < 0.001) and nIVF (p = 0.003); ICU stay and IOR (p = 0.002), extended ICU stay and tIVF (p = 0.004). Conclusion: Significant variability and lack of standardization in intraoperative IV fluid management exists between different surgical centers. Excessive fluid administration was found to be correlated with negative outcomes. Level of evidence: III.Item Open Access Lowest Instrumented Vertebra Selection to S1 or Ilium Versus L4 or L5 in Adult Spinal Deformity: Factors for Consideration in 349 Patients With a Mean 46-Month Follow-Up(Global Spine Journal, 2023-05-01) Yao, YC; Kim, HJ; Bannwarth, M; Smith, J; Bess, S; Klineberg, E; Ames, CP; Shaffrey, CI; Burton, D; Gupta, M; Mundis, GM; Hostin, R; Schwab, F; Lafage, VStudy Design: Retrospective cohort study. Objective: To compare the outcomes of patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD) following spinal fusion with the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) at L4/L5 versus S1/ilium. Methods: A multicenter ASD database was evaluated. Patients were categorized into 2 groups based on LIV levels—groups L (fusion to L4/L5) and S (fusion to S1/ilium). Both groups were propensity matched by age and preoperative radiographic alignments. Patient demographics, operative details, radiographic parameters, revision rates, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores were compared. Results: Overall, 349 patients had complete data, with a mean follow-up of 46 months. Patients in group S (n = 311) were older and had larger sagittal and coronal plane deformities than those in group L (n = 38). After matching, 28 patients were allocated to each group with similar demographic, radiographic, and clinical parameters. Sagittal alignment restoration at postoperative week 6 was significantly better in group S than in group L, but it was similar in both groups at the 2-year follow-up. Fusion to S1/ilium involved a longer operating time, higher PJK rates, and greater PJK angles than that to L4/L5. There were no significant differences in the complication and revision rates between the groups. Both groups showed significant improvements in HRQOL scores. Conclusions: Fusion to S1/ilium had better sagittal alignment restoration at postoperative week 6 and involved higher PJK rates and greater PJK angles than that to L4/L5. The clinical outcomes and rates of revision surgery and complications were similar between the groups.Item Open Access Outcomes of Operative and Nonoperative Treatment for Adult Spinal Deformity (ASD): A Prospective, Multicenter Matched and Unmatched Cohort Assessment with Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up(Global Spine Journal, 2015-05-01) Smith, J; Lafage, V; Shaffrey, C; Schwab, F; Hostin, R; Boachie-Adjei, O; Akbarnia, B; Klineberg, E; Gupta, M; Deviren, V; Hart, R; Burton, D; Bess, S; Ames, CIntroduction Adults with spinal deformity typically present with pain and disability. Aim Our objective was to compare outcomes for operative (op) and nonoperative (nonop) treatment for ASD based on a prospective, multicenter patient population. Material and Methods This is a multicenter, prospective analysis of consecutive ASD patients electing for op or nonop care at enrollment. Inclusion criteria: age > 18 year and ASD. Propensity scores were used to match op and nonop patients based on baseline (BL) ODI, SRS22, maximum thoracolumbar/lumbar Cobb angle, pelvic incidence to lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL), and leg pain numeric rating scale (NRS) score. Results A total of 689 patients met with the criteria, including 286 op and 403 nonop, with mean ages of 53 and 55 years, minimum 2-year follow-up rates of 86 and 55%, and mean follow-up of 24.7 and 24.8 months, respectively. At BL, compared with nonop, op patients had significantly worse HRQL based on ODI, SRS22, SF36, and leg and back pain NRS (p < 0.001) and had worse deformity based on pelvic tilt, PI-LL, and C7SVA (p ≤ 0.002). Before reaching minimum 2-year follow-up 38 nonop patients converted to op treatment and were analyzed in the op group. At minimum 2-year follow-up all HRQL measures assessed significantly improved for op patients (p < 0.001), but none of these measures improved significantly for nonop patients (p ≥ 0.11). Total 97 matched op–nonop pairs were identified based on propensity scores. At last follow-up the 97 matched op patients had significant improvement in all HRQL measures assessed (p < 0.001), but the 97 matched nonop patients lacked significant improvement in any of the HRQL measures (p ≥ 0.20). Paired op–nonop analysis demonstrated the op patients to have significantly better HRQL scores at follow-up for all measures assessed (p < 0.001), except SF36 MCS (p = 0.058). Overall minor and major complication rates for op patients were 53 and 40%, respectively. Conclusion Op treatment for ASD can provide significant improvement of HRQL measures at minimum 2-year follow-up. In contrast, nonop treatment appears to at best maintain presenting levels of pain and disability.Item Open Access Preoperative dysphonia and dysphagia improve following cervical deformity surgery(Spine Journal, 2024-09-01) Soroceanu, A; Gum, JL; Protopsaltis, TS; Hamilton, DK; Passias, PG; Lafage, R; Smith, JS; Kebaish, KM; Eastlack, RK; Klineberg, EO; Gupta, MC; Lafage, V; Schwab, FJ; Shaffrey, CI; Bess, S; Burton, DC; Ames, CPBACKGROUND CONTEXT: Twenty-five percent of adult cervical deformity patients undergoing deformity correction have impairment due to a voice problem prior to surgery. Prior work has shown that these patients tend to be more frail and more likely to report preoperative dysphagia. We hypothesized that these patients could be at increased risk of post operative dysphonia and dysphagia. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to quantify how patients with preoperative dysphonia differ from their counterparts in terms postoperative dysphagia, dysphonia and HRQOL 6 weeks post surgery. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective analysis of a prospective multicenter cervical deformity database. PATIENT SAMPLE: Adult cervical deformity patients with preop dysphonia undergoing deformity correction. OUTCOME MEASURES: Voice handicap index-10 (VHI-10). METHODS: Retrospective analysis of a prospective multicenter cervical deformity database. The voice handicap index-10 (VHI-10) was used to assess patient's perception of impairment due to problems with their voice prior to surgery. A score ≥11 was considered indicative of dysphonia. Patients were divided into two groups: normalVHI group (VHI-10 score <11) and highVHI group (VHI score ≥11). The two groups were compared in terms of baseline demographics, alignment, surgical metrics, and 6-week dysphagia (measured on the EAT-10 questionnaire), and post operative outcomes. T-tests and chi2 tests were performed, as appropriate. The significance level was p<0.05. RESULTS: There were 74 ACD patients included: NormalVHI (n=58, average VHI score 2.77) and HighVHI (n=16, average VHI score 16.37). The groups were similar in terms of baseline demographics and preoperative alignment. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of surgical metrics between the two groups (revision surgery p=0.21, anterior approach p=0.92, use of osteotomies p=0.71, and OR time p=0.15). The two groups had a similar rate of in hospital adverse events (12.2% vs 7.7%, p=0.64), and similar improvements on the NDI, mJOA, and NRS neck and arm pain. HighVHI patients showed significant improvement on the VHI score 6 weeks post-surgery (11.18 vs 16.37, p=0.01). The HighVHI group also showed postoperative improvement on the EAT-10 questionnaire, compared to NormalVHI patients (-3.68 vs 4.03, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS: Twenty-five percent of adult cervical deformity patients undergoing deformity correction have impairment due to a voice problem prior to surgery. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, these patients exhibited improvement in dysphonia and dysphagia scores 6 weeks post surgery, with 81% reporting improvement in symptoms of dysphonia, and 69% reporting improvement in symptoms of oropharyngeal dysphagia. FDA Device/Drug Status: This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.Item Open Access Quantifying the importance of upper cervical extension reserve in adult cervical deformity surgery and its impact on baseline presentation and outcomes(Spine Journal, 2024-09-01) Passias, PG; Mir, J; Smith, JS; Lafage, V; Lafage, R; Diebo, BG; Daniels, AH; Onafowokan, O; Line, B; Eastlack, RK; Mundis, GM; Kebaish, KM; Soroceanu, A; Scheer, JK; Kelly, MP; Protopsaltis, TS; Kim, HJ; Hostin, RA; Gupta, MC; Riew, KD; Burton, DC; Schwab, FJ; Bess, S; Shaffrey, CI; Ames, CPBACKGROUND CONTEXT: Hyperextension of the upper cervical spine is a prominent compensatory mechanism to maintain horizontal gaze and balance in adult cervical deformity (ACD) patients, akin to pelvic tilt in spinal deformity. The relaxation of ER and its impact on postoperative outcomes is not well understood. PURPOSE: To evaluate upper cervical ER impact on postoperative disability and outcomes. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE: Adult cervical deformity. OUTCOME MEASURES: ER, HRQLs. METHODS: ACD patients undergoing subaxial cervical fusion with 2Y data were included. Upper cervical extension reserve (ER) was defined as: C0-C2 sagittal Cobb angle between neutral and extension. Relaxation of ER was defined as the ER normative mean in those that met the ideal in all Passias ACD modifiers. Outcomes were defined as "good" if meeting ≥2 of the three: (1) NDI <20 or meeting MCID, (2) mild myelopathy (mJOA≥14), and (3) NRS-Neck ≤5 or improved by ≥2 points from baseline. Controlled analysis was conducted with ANCOVA and multivariable logistic regressions. Conditional inference tree (CIT) analysis determined thresholds. RESULTS: A total of 108 ACD patients met inclusion. (Age 61.4 ± 12.3, 61% F, BMI 29.4 ± 7.5 kg/m2, mCD-FI .24 ±.12, CCI 0.97 ± 1.30). Radiographic alignment is depicted in Table 1. Preoperative C0-C2 ER was 8.7 ±9.0 ±, and at the last follow-up was 10.3 ± 11.1. ER in those meeting all ideal CD modifiers at 2Y was 12.9 ± 9.0. Preoperatively 29% had adequate ER, while 59.7% had improvement in ER postoperatively, with 50% of patients achieving adequate ER at 2Y. Higher ER significantly correlated with lower cervical deformity (p<.05). Preoperatively, greater ER was predictive of lower preoperative disability, with worse baseline mobility, pain, and anxiety (EQ5D) (B = -6.1, -2.9, -2.9 respectively; R2 =0.212, p<.001). Improvement of ER depicted a higher rate of MCID for NDI (64% vs 39%, p=.008), and meeting good clinical outcomes (72% vs 54%, p=.04). Controlling for baseline deformity and demographic factors found resolution of inadequate ER to have 7x higher likelihood of meeting MCID for NDI (6.941 [1.378-34.961], p=.019) and 4x higher odds of achieving good outcomes (4.022 [1.017-15.900], p=.047). Isolating those with inadequate preoperative ER, found postoperative resolution having 5x odds of good outcomes (p<.05). In those with inadequate ER at baseline, the preoperative C2-C7 of <-18 and TS-CL of >59 for TS-CL was predictive of ER resolution (p<.05). In those with preoperative C2-C7 >-18, a T1PA of >13 was predictive of postoperative return of ER (p<.05). Independently TS-CL of >59, was significant for predicting ER return postoperatively, highlighting its compensatory role for proximal spinal deformities (all p<.05). Surgical correction of C2-C7 by >16 from baseline was found to be predictive of ER return. CONCLUSIONS: Increased preoperative utilization of the extension reserve in the upper cervical spine in cervical deformity was associated with worse baseline regional and global alignment while impacting health-related measures. The majority of patients had relaxation of extension reserve postoperatively, however, in those who didn't, there was a decreased likelihood of achieving good outcomes. FDA Device/Drug Status: This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.Item Open Access Redefining Clinically Significant Blood Loss in Complex Adult Spine Deformity Surgery(Spine, 2024-01-01) Daher, M; Xu, A; Singh, M; Lafage, R; Line, BG; Lenke, LG; Ames, CP; Burton, DC; Lewis, SM; Eastlack, RK; Gupta, MC; Mundis, GM; Gum, JL; Hamilton, KD; Hostin, R; Lafage, V; Passias, PG; Protopsaltis, TS; Kebaish, KM; Schwab, FJ; Shaffrey, CI; Smith, JS; Bess, S; Klineberg, EO; Diebo, BG; Daniels, AHStudy Design. Retrospective analysis of prospectively-collected data Objective. This study aims to define clinically relevant blood loss in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. Background. Current definitions of excessive blood loss following spine surgery are highly variable and may be suboptimal in predicting adverse events (AE). Methods. Adults undergoing complex ASD surgery were included. Estimated blood loss (EBL) was extracted for investigation, and estimated blood volume loss (EBVL) was calculated by dividing EBL by the preoperative blood volume utilizing Nadler's formula. LASSO regression was performed to identify five variables from demographic and peri-operative parameters. Logistic regression was subsequently performed to generate a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve and estimate an optimal threshold for EBL and EBVL. Finally, the proportion of patients with AE plotted against EBL and EBVL to confirm the identified thresholds. Results. In total 552 patients were included with a mean age of 60.7±15.1 years, 68% females, mean CCI was 1.0±1.6, and 22% experienced AEs. LASSO regression identified ASA score, baseline hypertension, preoperative albumin, and use of intra-operative crystalloids as the top predictors of an AE, in addition to EBL/EBVL. Logistic regression resulted in ROC curve which was used to identify a cut-off of 2.3 liters of EBL and 42% for EBVL. Patients exceeding these thresholds had AE rates of 36% (odds-ratio: 2.1, 95% CI [1.2-3.6]) and 31% (odds-ratio: 1.7, 95% CI [1.1-2.8]), compared to 21% for those below the thresholds of EBL and EBVL, respectively. Conclusion. In complex ASD surgery, intraoperative EBL of 2.3 liters and an EBVL of 42% are associated with clinically-significant AEs. These thresholds may be useful in guiding preoperative-patient-counseling, healthcare system quality initiatives, and clinical perioperative bloodloss management strategies in patients undergoing complex spine surgery. Additionally, similar methodology could be performed in other specialties to establish procedure-specific clinically-relevant bloodloss thresholds.Item Open Access “Selection, planning and execution of minimally invasive surgery in adult spinal deformity correction”(Seminars in Spine Surgery, 2023-01-01) Alan, N; Uribe, JS; Turner, JD; Park, P; Anand, N; Eastlack, RK; Okonkwo, DO; Le, VP; Nunley, P; Mundis, GM; Passias, PG; Chou, D; Kanter, AS; Fu, KMG; Wang, MY; Fessler, RG; Shaffrey, CI; Bess, S; Mummaneni, PVMinimally invasive surgery (MIS) for correction of adult spinal deformity was developed to address the high rate of medical and surgical complications rate in open surgical treatment of increasingly aging and frail patient population. In the past decade, MIS group within the International Spine Study Group (ISSG) has been in the forefront of the application of MIS techniques to fulfill the well-established principles of ASD surgery. These efforts have resulted in landmark studies. Here, we review these studies that encompass all aspects of MIS surgical treatment of ASD including patient selection with Minimally Invasive Spinal Deformity Surgery (MISDEF) and MISDEF-2 algorithms, surgical planning with anterior column realignment classification and the Minimally Invasive Interbody Selection Algorithm (MIISA), and surgical execution with Spinal Deformity Complexity Checklist (SDCC). We will highlight that with careful selection, diligent planning and meticulous execution the MIS techniques can treat patients with ASD, abiding to correction principles and radiographic parameters.Item Open Access Severe hip and knee osteoarthritis worsens patient-reported disability in adult spinal deformity patients(Spine Journal, 2024-09-01) Balmaceno-Criss, M; Singh, M; Xu, A; Daher, M; Lafage, R; Lewis, SJ; Klineberg, EO; Eastlack, RK; Gupta, MC; Mundis, GM; Gum, JL; Hamilton, DK; Hostin, RA; Passias, PG; Protopsaltis, TS; Kebaish, KM; Kim, HJ; Shaffrey, CI; Smith, JS; Line, B; Lenke, LG; Ames, CP; Burton, DC; Bess, S; Schwab, FJ; Lafage, V; Diebo, BG; Daniels, AHBACKGROUND CONTEXT: The complex interplay between lower extremity osteoarthritis and sagittal alignment in adult spinal deformity patients is of growing clinical interest. PURPOSE: To quantify the sequential effects of lower extremity OA on PROMs in ASD patients. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective review of prospectively collected data. PATIENT SAMPLE: ASD patients with no prior history of thoracolumbar surgery, and available baseline PROMs and standing radiographs were included. OUTCOME MEASURES: Baseline demographics, spinopelvic alignment, and PROMs. METHODS: Included patients with PROMs, standing xrays, no prior thoracolumbar surgery, and bilateral Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) hip/knee grade at baseline. Patients grouped into Spine (KL <3 BL hips & knees), Spine-Hip (KL>3 BL hips, KL <3 BL knees), Spine-Knee (KL>3 BL knees, KL>3 BL hips), Spine-Hip-Knee (KL>3 BL hips & knees). Baseline demographics, spinopelvic alignment, and PROMs were compared. Multivariate regression with forward stepwise selection predicted PROMs with variables (demographic, radiographic, OA severity) with significant association identified on Pearson correlation RESULTS: Included 160 patients: 56 Spine, 32 Spine-Knee, 20 Spine-Hip, and 52 Spine-Hip-Knee. Spine-Hip-Knee patients were older (Spine=62.2, Spine-Knee=61.2, Spine-Hip=59.1, Spine-Hip-Knee=68.5; p<.001) but similar in sex, comorbidities, and frailty; p>.05. Spine-Hip-Knee patients had higher SVA (50.0,30.6,60.5,83.5), T1PA (25.2,20.4,20.3,27.8), GSA (3.7,2.3,4.3,7.5), and KA (0.0,2.1,2.9,10.5); p<.005. SRS total and VR12 PCS scores were similar but VR12-2b climbing stairs (1.73,1.91,1.55,1.40, p=.014) and SRS-8 back pain at rest (2.29,2.84,1.95,2.71, p=.012) were lower in Spine-Hip-Knee and Spine-Hip, respectively. ODI (42.75,35.88,50.30,44.59, p=.040) and ODI Pain (2.88,1.84,2.90,2.46, p=0.019) were higher in Spine-Hip patients; ODI lifting was higher in hip OA patients but not significant (2.95,2.69,3.45,3.35, p>.05). In multivariate analyses, KOA changed the prediction of ODI pain from R2 0.052 to 0.086 and SRS-8 from R2 0.077 to 0.147. HOA changed the prediction of VR12-2b from R2 0.113 to 0.140 and ODI Lifting from R2 0.175 to 0.202. Frailty impacted PROMs across all models (p<.001) and GSA changed ODI, ODI pain, and VR12-2b models (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: Severe hip and knee OA worsen patient-reported disability and physical function in ASD patients. These results quantify the impact of lower limb arthritis on patient reported outcomes, and highlight the need for integrated assessment and management of both spinal alignment and joint health in patients. FDA Device/Drug Status: This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.Item Open Access The cervical lordosis distribution index and its consideration of upper cervical region and morphology(Spine Journal, 2024-09-01) Williamson, TK; Passias, PG; Smith, JS; Lafage, R; Line, B; Diebo, BG; Daniels, AH; Gum, JL; Protopsaltis, TS; Hamilton, DK; Soroceanu, A; Eastlack, RK; Mundis, GM; Bess, S; Schwab, FJ; Shaffrey, CI; Lafage, V; Burton, DCBACKGROUND CONTEXT: The cervical lordosis distribution in relation to its apex has not been characterized, nor has the impact of morphologic differences and upper cervical segments. PURPOSE: The goal of this study is assess whether tailored correction of cervical deformity by incorporating the cervical apex into a distribution index (CLDI) improves clinical outcomes while lowering rates of junctional failure. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective review of a prospectively-collected cohort; Multiple academic centers. PATIENT SAMPLE: A total of 84 patients met radiographic criteria for adult cervical deformity and at least 2-year follow-up. OUTCOME MEASURES: Optimal outcome is defined as meeting Virk et al Good Clinical Outcome (GCO): [Meeting 2 of 3: 1) NDI<20 or meeting MCID, 2) mJOA>=14, 3) NRS-Neck<=5 or improved by >2 points] and no occurrence of distal junctional failure (DJF). METHODS: C2-T2 lordosis was divided into cranial (C2-to-apex) and caudal (apex-to-T2) arches. A cervical lordosis distribution index (CLDI) was developed by dividing the cranial lordotic arch (C2 to apex) by the total segment (C2-T2) and multiplying by 100. Cross-tabulations developed categories for CLDI producing the highest chi-square values for achieving Optimal Outcome at two years and outcomes were assessed by multivariable analysis controlling for significant confounders. Patients stratified by Ames et al deformity classification then assessed against thresholds. Patients were further divided into those meeting thresholds with upper cervical compensation (defined by C0-C2 angle, C0 slope, McGregor's Slope [MGS]) vs without compensation. Multivariate regression analysis controlling for T1 slope assessed differences in classification and impact of upper cervical region. RESULTS: Cervical apex distribution postoperatively was: 1% C3, 42% C4, 30% C5, 27% C6. Mean cervical LDI was 117±138. Mean cranial lordosis was 23.2±12.5°. Using cross-tabulations, CLDI between 70 and 90 was defined as ‘Aligned’. Chi-square test revealed significant differences among CLDI categories for DJK, DJF, Good Clinical Outcome, and Optimal Outcome (all p<.05). Patients aligned in CLDI were less likely to develop DJK (OR: 0.1, [<0.1-0.9]), more like to achieve GCO (OR: 3.9, [1.2-13.2]) and Optimal Outcome (OR: 7.9, [2.1-29.3]) at two years. Patients aligned in CLDI developed DJF at a rate of 0%. Those meeting this CLDI threshold were more likely to be classified into primarily cervical deformity by Ames criteria (OR: 1.9, [3.2-10.6], p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: The cervical lordosis distribution index, classified through the cranial segment, takes each unique cervical apex into account and tailors correction to the patient in order to better achieve good clinical outcomes. While differences based on morphology exists, upper cervical region functions as a reserve in all deformity types. Consideration of regional and global factors allows for a comprehensive assessment and individualization of realignment surgery. FDA Device/Drug Status: This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.Item Open Access The Clinical Impact of Global Coronal Malalignment Is Underestimated in Adult Patients With Thoracolumbar Scoliosis(Spine Deformity, 2019-01-01) Plais, N; Bao, H; Lafage, R; Gupta, M; Smith, JS; Shaffrey, C; Mundis, G; Burton, D; Ames, C; Klineberg, E; Bess, S; Schwab, F; Lafage, VStudy Design: Retrospective review of multicenter adult spine deformity (ASD) database. Objectives: A recent publication demonstrated that the laterality of the coronal offset is a key parameter that directly impacts postoperative outcomes. The objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between global coronal malalignment (GCM) and functional outcomes in a North American population of ASD patients with no history of previous surgery. Summary of Background Data: The clinical impact of GCM in patients with ASD remains controversial. Methods: Primary patients were drawn from a multicenter database of ASD patients and categorized with the Qiu classification: Type A = GCM <3 cm; Type B = GCM >3 cm toward the concave side of the curve; and Type C = GCM >3 cm toward the convex side. In addition to the classic radiographic parameter, the coronal truncal inclination was investigated in regard to the pelvic obliquity. Clinical outcomes, radiographic parameters, and demographics were compared across the three Qiu Types using analysis of variance. The analysis was repeated after propensity matching of the three types by age and sagittal alignment (PI-LL mismatch, pelvic tilt, and sagittal vertical axis). Results: 576 ASD patients (mean age 58.8 years) were included. Type B patients had significantly worse functional scores (Oswestry Disability Index, 36-item Short Form Survey physical component summary, and Scoliosis Research Society–22) and a more severe coronal deformity in terms of maximum Cobb angle, global coronal deformity angle, and coronal malalignment; they were also older (65.4 vs. 58.8 years, p = .004) and displayed more severe sagittal malalignment. Similar findings were observed after propensity matching. Conclusions: This study is the first to establish an association between functional outcomes and the severity of the coronal plane deformity in the setting of a specific coronal curve pattern in patients without previous surgery. Coronal malalignment significantly affects the health status of patients when the offset is greater than 3 cm in the direction of curve concavity. Level of Evidence: Level III.Item Open Access Three-dimensional evaluation of the dynamic interplay between pelvic anatomy, lower-limb compensation, and standing alignment in ASD(Spine Journal, 2024-09-01) Assi, A; Khalifé, M; Prince, G; Boutros, M; Karam, M; Ames, CP; Bess, S; Daniels, AH; Gupta, MC; Hostin, RA; Kelly, MP; Kim, HJ; Klineberg, EO; Lenke, LG; Nunley, PD; Passias, PG; Schwab, FJ; Shaffrey, CI; Smith, JS; Lafage, R; Diebo, BG; Lafage, VBACKGROUND CONTEXT: Previous studies have shown that lower limbs play a crucial role in compensating for sagittal spinal malalignment. However, these studies primarily focused on lower limb parameters in the sagittal plane, mainly knee flexion, leaving compensatory mechanisms that might happen in the coronal or axial planes unexplored. PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate factors associated with lower-limb recruitment in adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective study of prospectively collected data. PATIENT SAMPLE: ASD patients who underwent full-body biplanar X-rays and 3D reconstruction of lower limbs and pelvis. OUTCOME MEASURES: Association between morphological parameters and compensatory mechanisms METHODS: The study included ASD patients with moderate to severe sagittal plane deformities. Classic 2D parameters included pelvic shift (PSh), knee flexion (KA), sacro-femoral (SFA), and ankle dorsiflexion (AA) angles for the lower limbs, as well as TPA, PT, PI, and PI-LL mismatch. 3D reconstructions were used to assess acetabular parameters (abduction, coverage, and anteversion), pelvic depth (PD: distance between the pubic symphysis and the sacral endplate), and knee varus/valgus angle. After univariate analysis, multiple linear regressions were performed to investigate associations between spinal deformity and lower limb 2D/3D parameters with and without accounting for spinal alignment. RESULTS: A total of 146 subjects (67±10 years) were included with a mean PI-LL of 25.1±16.1°, TPA 37.4±10.6°, PT 27±9.1°, and PD of 85.9±16.2mm. Lower limbs compensation consisted of a PSh 38.4±43.7mm, KA 6.9±7.9°, and AA of 5.8±4.1°. Pelvic depth significantly correlated with PI (r=0.6, p<0.001), PT (r=0.3, p<0.001), and SFA (r=0.2, p=0.02). In multivariate analysis considering the full-body parameters, ankle dorsiflexion (AA) was associated with PT, PSh, and KA (all p<0.001) but not with spinal alignment and correlated with increased knee varus angulation (p=0.01). Similarly, KA correlated with PT, SFA, and AA (all p<0.001) but not with spinal alignment. Those associations remained significant in multivariate analysis considering only the lower-limbs parameters. In addition, patients with high pelvic depth (>100mm) had greater pelvic shift and PT than low ones (<70mm): 29.4+49.1mm versus 54.8±41.7mm and 23.7±9.3° versus 32.4±9.4°. Finally, increased PT was associated with higher PI (p<0.001) and more vertical acetabular abduction (57.4±3.9° for PT<15°, vs 60.7±4.2° for PT > 25°, p=0.009). CONCLUSIONS: There was 3D analysis of the lower extremities that revealed significant multiplanar interplay in the setting of spinal deformity. Pelvic morphology including antero-posterior depth is associated with greater compensatory abilities such as pelvic translation and retroversion. Greater PT compensation in the sagittal plane is associated with a more vertical acetabulum in the coronal plane. Knee and ankle flexion were indirectly correlated with spinal alignment as they contributed to higher PT and pelvic shift. Consequently, their assessment is valuable for understanding how patients compensate for malalignment but should not be a primary consideration in the correction strategy. The sagittal and coronal alignment of lower limbs cannot be separated, as an increase in ankle and knee flexion angles is associated with greater genu varum. FDA Device/Drug Status: This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.