Characteristics and surgical management of neuropathic (Charcot) spinal arthropathy after spinal cord injury

No Thumbnail Available
File version
Author(s)
Aebli, Nikolaus
Poetzel, Tobias
Krebs, Joerg
Griffith University Author(s)
Primary Supervisor
Other Supervisors
Editor(s)
Date
2014
Size
File type(s)
Location
License
Abstract

Background context Neuropathic (Charcot) spinal arthropathy (CSA) is a rare but progressive and severe degenerative disease that develops in the absence of deep sensation, for example, after spinal cord injury. The diagnosis of CSA is often delayed as a result of the late onset or slow progression of the disease and the nonspecific nature of the reported clinical signs. Considering risk factors of CSA in combination with the common clinical signs may facilitate timely diagnosis and prevent severe presentation of the disease. However, there is a lack of data concerning the early signs and risk factors of CSA. Furthermore, the complications and outcomes after surgical treatment are documented insufficiently. Purpose To investigate the early signs and risk factors of CSA after spinal cord injury, as well as the complications and outcome after surgical treatment. Study design Retrospective case series from a single center. Patient sample Twenty-eight patients with 39 Charcot joints of the spine. Outcome measures Clinical signs, radiological signs, risk factors, and complications. Methods The case histories and radiological images of patients suffering from CSA were investigated. Results The first clinical symptoms included spinal deformity, sitting imbalance, and localized back pain. Long-segment stabilization, laminectomy, scoliosis, and excessive loading of the spine were identified as risk factors for the development of the disease. Postoperative complications included implant loosening, wound healing disturbance, and development of additional Charcot joints. All patients were able to return to their previous levels of activities. Conclusions Radiological follow-up of the entire thoracic and lumbar spine should be performed in paraplegic patients. Risk factors in combination with typical symptoms should be considered to facilitate early detection. Functional restoration can be achieved with appropriate surgical techniques.

Journal Title

The Spine Journal

Conference Title
Book Title
Edition
Volume

14

Issue

6

Thesis Type
Degree Program
School
Publisher link
Patent number
Funder(s)
Grant identifier(s)
Rights Statement
Rights Statement
Item Access Status
Note
Access the data
Related item(s)
Subject

Clinical sciences

Clinical sciences not elsewhere classified

Neurosciences

Neurosciences not elsewhere classified

Persistent link to this record
Citation
Collections