Our Summary

This research paper looks into the safety of using surgical tools in treating a bone infection in the neck area, known as cervical osteomyelitis. The researchers were concerned that bacteria could infect the surgical tools used. To understand the risks, they reviewed various studies conducted between 1980 and 2017 that involved at least two patients with cervical osteomyelitis.

They found that the majority of the patients were treated using a surgical approach known as the anterior-only method. They also used implants known as anterior plating and cage or spacer in most cases. Some patients underwent a combined approach, using a method known as circumferential fixation.

The researchers found that almost all the studies reported a 100% success rate in the fusion process, which is the joining of two bones. The patients also reported improvements in pain and neurological recovery. The complications from using the surgical tools, such as hardware failure and wound complications, were found to be similar to those in standard neck procedures.

The study concludes that surgical intervention with instrumentation is a safe treatment option for patients with cervical spine osteomyelitis.

FAQs

  1. What is cervical osteomyelitis and how is it treated?
  2. What were the findings of the research regarding the safety of using surgical tools in treating cervical osteomyelitis?
  3. What types of complications were reported from the use of surgical tools in the treatment of cervical osteomyelitis?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing spinal fusion to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities to allow the fusion to heal properly. They may also recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the fused area and improve mobility. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can support the healing process and overall spinal health.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended spinal fusion include those with degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, fractures, tumors, infections, and failed previous surgeries. These patients may experience symptoms such as chronic back or neck pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs, difficulty walking, and loss of bowel or bladder control. The decision to undergo spinal fusion is usually made after conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections have been unsuccessful in relieving symptoms. Additionally, patients who have instability in their spine or who have not responded to non-surgical treatments may also be recommended for spinal fusion surgery.

Timeline

Before spinal fusion:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as chronic back pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to determine the cause of their symptoms.
  3. Patient undergoes conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections to manage their symptoms.
  4. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful, patient and their healthcare provider decide on spinal fusion surgery as a treatment option.

After spinal fusion:

  1. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes spinal fusion surgery, which involves the fusion of two or more vertebrae using bone grafts, metal rods, and screws.
  3. Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery.
  4. Patient undergoes post-operative physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility.
  5. Patient experiences a gradual improvement in their symptoms over time as the fusion heals and stabilizes the spine.
  6. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for regular check-ups and monitoring of their progress.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about spinal fusion may include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with spinal fusion surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process after spinal fusion surgery?
  3. What are the expected outcomes and success rates for spinal fusion surgery in my specific case?
  4. Are there alternative treatment options for my condition other than spinal fusion surgery?
  5. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after spinal fusion surgery?
  6. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after spinal fusion surgery?
  7. What is the long-term prognosis for my condition after undergoing spinal fusion surgery?
  8. How soon can I return to normal activities, such as work or exercise, after spinal fusion surgery?
  9. Are there any specific precautions or lifestyle changes I need to make after spinal fusion surgery?
  10. What is the experience and success rate of the surgeon performing the spinal fusion surgery?

It is important for patients to have a thorough understanding of the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes before undergoing spinal fusion surgery.

Reference

Authors: Wang AJ, Huang KT, Smith TR, Lu Y, Chi JH, Groff MW, Zaidi HA. Journal: World Neurosurg. 2018 Dec;120:e562-e572. doi: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.08.129. Epub 2018 Aug 28. PMID: 30165226