Comparing Combined Anterior and Posterior to Posterior-Only Decompression and Fusion Crossing the Cervico-Thoracic Junction in Octogenarians.
Publication Title
Global Spine J
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-10-2021
Keywords
washington; seattle; swedish neuro
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to compare early complication, morbidity and mortality risks associated with fusion surgery crossing the cervico-thoracic junction in patients aged over 80 years undergoing combined anterior and posterior approach versus a posterior-only approach.
METHODS: We retrospectively identified octogenarian patients with myelopathy who underwent fusion crossing the cervico-thoracic junction. Patient demographics, Nurick score, surgical characteristics, complications, hospital course, early outcome and 90-day mortality were collected. Comorbidities were classified using the age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (AACCI). Radiographic measurements for deformity correction included the C2-C7 sagittal Cobb angle, C2-7 sagittal vertical axis and T1 slope pre- and postoperatively.
RESULTS: Out of 8,521 surgically treated patients, 12 octogenarian patients had a combined anterior and posterior approach (AP group) and 14 were treated from posterior-only (P group). Mean age was 81.4 ± 1.2 and 82.5 ± 2.7 years, respectively. There was no significant difference in Nurick scores between the groups (
CONCLUSIONS: A combined anterior and posterior approach is associated with a significantly higher major complication rate and can result in severe dysphagia requiring PEG tube placement in one-third of patients over 80 years of age.
Area of Special Interest
Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)
Specialty/Research Institute
Neurosciences
