Reconstruction following partial and total sacrectomy defects: An analysis of outcomes and complications

Lumbopelvic Fixation: How to Be Less Invasive When You Cannot Be Minimally Invasive-A New Subcutaneous Supra-Fascial Approach to Minimize Open Iliac Screwing

Background/Objectives: Lumbopelvic fixation (LPF) is essential for stabilizing the lumbosacral junction (LSJ) in cases of trauma, tumors, and other pathologies. While minimally invasive percutaneous techniques are preferred when feasible, open LPF remains necessary when direct sacral access is required. This study describes a modified open LPF technique designed to minimize invasiveness while maintaining effective stabilization. Methods: We present a case of sacral metastasis requiring LPF. The surgical technique involves a linear midline incision, meticulous subfascial dissection to preserve the Longissimus thoracis and Iliocostalis lumborum muscles, and a subcutaneous supra-fascial approach for iliac screw placement guided by intraoperative CT navigation. A U-shaped cross-link is used for final construct stability. The case illustrates the application of this technique in a 56-year-old female patient with metastatic breast carcinoma involving the sacrum, complicated by nerve compression and urinary retention. Results: The patient underwent successful LPF with nerve root decompression and partial tumor resection. Postoperatively, she experienced no new neurological deficits and demonstrated progressive improvement in sphincter function. The described surgical approach minimized soft tissue disruption, blood loss, and potential complications associated with more extensive dissection. Six-month follow-up CT scans confirmed the stability of the LPF construct and the residual lesion. Conclusions: When open LPF is unavoidable, the described subcutaneous supra-fascial approach for iliac screw placement, combined with muscle preservation and a U-shaped cross-link, offers a less invasive alternative that minimizes soft tissue trauma, reduces potential complications, and facilitates faster patient recovery. This technique can be particularly beneficial in patients with sacral metastases requiring nerve decompression and tumor resection.

Soft Tissue Reconstruction After Sacral Neoplasm Resection: The University of California San Francisco Experience

PURPOSE

Resection of sacral neoplasms such as chordoma and chondrosarcoma with subsequent reconstruction of large soft tissue defects is a complex multidisciplinary process. Radiotherapy and prior abdominal surgery play a role in reconstructive planning; however, there is no consensus on how to maximize outcomes. In this study, we present our institution's experience with the reconstructive surgical management of this unique patient population.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent reconstruction after resection of primary or recurrent pelvic chordoma or chondrosarcoma between 2002 and 2019. Surgical details, hospital stay, and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Patients were divided into 3 groups for comparison based on reconstruction technique: gluteal-based flaps, vertical rectus abdominus myocutaneous (VRAM) flaps, and locoregional fasciocutaneous flaps.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients (17 males, 11 females), with mean age of 62 years (range, 34-86 years), were reviewed. Twenty-two patients (78.6%) received gluteal-based flaps, 3 patients (10.7%) received VRAM flaps, and 3 patients (10.7%) were reconstructed with locoregional fasciocutaneous flaps. Patients in the VRAM group were significantly more likely to have undergone total sacrectomy (P < 0.01) in a 2-stage operation (P < 0.01) compared with patients in the other 2 groups. Patients in the VRAM group also had a significantly greater average number of reoperations (2 ± 3.5, P = 0.04) and length of stay (29.7 ± 20.4 days, P = 0.01) compared with the 2 other groups. The overall minor and major wound complication rates were 17.9% and 42.9%, respectively, with 17.9% of patients experiencing at least 1 infection or seroma. There was no association between prior abdominal surgery, surgical stages, or radiation therapy and an increased risk of wound complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Vertical rectus abdominus myocutaneous flaps are a more suitable option for patients with larger defects after total sacrectomy via 2-staged anteroposterior resections, whereas gluteal myocutaneous flaps are effective options for posterior-only resections. For patients with small- to moderate-sized defects, local fasciocutaneous flaps are a less invasive and effective option. Paraspinous flaps may be used in combination with other techniques to provide additional bulk and coverage for especially long postresection wounds. Furthermore, mesh is a useful adjunct for any reconstruction aimed at protecting against intra-abdominal complications.

Latissimus dorsi myocutaneous free flap for post-sacrectomy reconstruction: Outcomes compared with gluteal muscle flap

BACKGROUND

Excision of sacral tumor results in extensive defects and vital organ exposure, requiring soft tissue reconstruction for dead space obliteration. Diverse reconstruction options, mainly regional flaps, have been utilized but are limited by high postoperative morbidity. A reliable reconstructive method with low morbidity and facilitated recovery has yet been sought for. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the use of free latissimus dorsi (LD) flap for post-sacrectomy defect reconstruction by comparing its outcomes with local gluteus maximus (GM) flap.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients with sacral malignancy who underwent partial or total sacrectomy and immediate reconstruction with LD or GM flap between 2013 and 2022. Nineteen patients were analyzed, including 10 GM flaps and nine LD flaps. Postoperative outcomes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The average size of LD flaps was 173.8 cm2 . Seven patients developed complication in the GM group and two patients in the LD group. Complication rate at sacrectomy site was lower in the LD group (p = .003) showing complication-free sacrectomy site and two donor site seromas. The LD group resulted in shorter hospital stay (p = .033) and earlier ambulation than the GM group (p = .001). Mean follow-up period was 63 months for GM group and 17 months for LD group. Three patients in the GM group underwent re-operation, while no delayed complication was observed in the LD group.

CONCLUSION

Free LD flaps may provide reliable outcomes with early recovery and may be considered an effective option for sacrectomy defect reconstruction.

Multiple Flap Transfer for Multiple Local Recurrence of Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Background and Objectives: Surgical management of local recurrence of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) is still challenging. In this article, we report on multiple flap reconstructions for multiple local recurrences of STS. Their feasibility will be validated by examining clinical cases. Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent multiple flap reconstructions for multiple local recurrences of STS between April 1997 and October 2021 were included in this retrospective study. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, surgical characteristics, and postoperative complications were examined. Results: Twenty operations of eight patients were identified. The location of the defects was the back in two, the buttock in two, the groin in two, and the lower extremities in two. The average total number of wide resections was 4.0 and the average total number of flap reconstructions was 2.5. The average follow-up period was 109.4 months. The average size of the defect was 102.4 cm2 and the average flap size was 15.7 × 10.8 cm. The histological diagnoses were malignant fibrous histocytoma (MFH) in eight operations, osteosarcoma in two operations, myxoid liposarcoma in two operations, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) in six operations, and myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) in one operation. Of twelve subsequent operations, the resection of the previously transferred flap was performed in six operations (50%). The occurrence of take back, flap complications, and donor-site complications in the primary operation group was 25%, 25%, and 12.5%, respectively. The occurrence of take back, flap complications, and donor-site complications in the second and subsequent operation group was 0%, 0%, and 16.7%, respectively. Conclusions: Multiple operations including wide resections followed by flap reconstructions for multiple local recurrences are feasible. Reconstructive surgeons should choose the options of the flaps considering the future local recurrence for tumors with a high risk of recurrence.

The Impact of Obesity on Plastic Surgery Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a potential risk factor for complications in plastic surgeries. However, the data presented by primary studies are contradictory.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to summarize and clarify the divergences in the literature to provide a better understanding of the impact of obesity in different plastic surgery procedures.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of obesity on plastic surgery outcomes. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Opengrey.eu, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. The primary outcomes assessed were surgical complications, medical complications, and reoperation rates. The secondary outcome assessed was patient satisfaction. Subgroup analysis was performed to investigate the impact of each BMI category on the outcomes.

RESULTS

Ninety-three articles were included in the qualitative synthesis, and 91 were used in the meta-analysis. Obese participants were 1.62 times more likely to present any of the primary outcomes (95% CI, 1.48-1.77; P < 0.00001). The highest increase in risk among plastic surgery types was observed in cosmetic procedures (risk ratio [RR], 1.80; 95% CI, 1.43-2.32; P < 0.00001). Compared with normal-weight participants, overweight participants presented a significantly increased RR for complications (RR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.07-1.27; P = 0.0004). Most authors found no relation between BMI and overall patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity leads to more complications and greater incidence of reoperation compared with nonobese patients undergoing plastic surgeries. However, this effect is not evident in reconstructive surgeries in areas of the body other than the breast.

Sacrum morphometry and spinopelvic parameters among the Indonesian population using computed tomography scans

ABSTRACT

This is a cross-sectional study. This study aims to describe the characteristics of sacrum vertebrae and spinopelvic parameters among the Indonesian population and compare them with studies from other populations. This study also intends to determine the sexual dimorphism of sacrum vertebrae and find the correlations between spinopelvic parameters.Morphometry of the sacrum is necessary for designing sacral prosthesis and instrumentations. Knowledge of spinopelvic parameters further supports the prosthesis installation procedure to restore the physiological spinal alignment of the patients. However, previous studies showed varied results among different populations. This is the first study to be conducted among the Indonesian population.Morphometric dimensions of sacrum vertebrae and the spinopelvic parameters (pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt, sacral slope, lumbar lordosis) were analyzed using thin-cut (1 mm) computed tomography images in 150 males and 150 females, aged 25 to 50 years without any spinal pathology.Generally, the size of the sacrum vertebrae was greater in males (P < .05). The sacral index, curvature index, and corporo-basal index were statistically different between genders (P < .001). Lumbar lordosis was the only spinopelvic parameter found significantly greater in females (P < .001). Significant positive correlations between all spinopelvic parameters, except for lumbar lordosis and pelvic tilt, were found in the present study (P < .001).The study serves as the first large series database of sacrum morphometric characteristics and spinopelvic parameters of the Indonesian population. There was significant gender-associated differences in various dimensions of sacrum vertebrae. The sacral index was found to be the most useful parameter for sex determination. There were strong significant positive correlations between various spinopelvic parameters. A comparison of populations revealed morphometric characteristic differences, which is proved to be critical in surgical implications.

Plastic surgery wound closure following resection of spinal metastases

OBJECTIVE

Surgical site infection and dehiscence are devastating complications of surgery for spinal metastases. Wound closure involving plastic surgeons has been proposed as a strategy to lower post-operative complications. Here we investigated whether plastic surgery closure is associated with lower rates of wound complications, wound infection, and wound reoperation compared to simple closure by spine surgeons.

METHODS

Patients surgically treated for metastatic tumors at a single comprehensive cancer center between April 2013-2020 were retrospectively identified. Primary pathology, demographic information, clinical characteristics, pre-operative laboratory values, tumor location, operative characteristics, and post-operative outcomes were collected. Univariable analyses used student t-tests for continuous variables and χ² tests for categorical variables. Multivariable regressions were performed to control for confounders.

RESULTS

We included 317 patients, of which 56 underwent closure by plastic surgeons and 291 by neurosurgeons. Patients in the plastic surgery cohort were more likely to have received prior radiation to the surgical site, more often on long-term corticosteroid therapy, and more likely to have sacrococcygeal tumors. Operations involving plastic surgeons were more likely to be revision surgeries, corpectomies, and to involve a staged approach. Additionally, patients in the plastic surgery cohort had longer incision lengths, longer surgeries, greater intraoperative blood loss (IOBL), were more likely to receive transfusions, and had longer hospitalizations. Local paraspinous advancement flaps were the most common complex wound closure technique. Plastic surgery closure was not significantly associated with a difference in rates of post-operative wound complications, wound infection, or wound-related reoperations compared to simple wound closure.

CONCLUSION

We identified that patients undergoing plastic surgery wound closure had worse baseline risk, longer surgeries, greater IOBL, and longer hospitalizations compared to patients receiving simple closure. Despite their increased risk, complex wound closure did not significantly alter the rates of post-operative wound complications, wound infection, or wound-related reoperations. Consideration may be given to plastic surgery closure in patients at high risk of wound complications or with extensive wound defects.

Impact of Multidisciplinary Intraoperative Teams on Thirty-Day Complications After Sacral Tumor Resection

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of multidisciplinary intraoperative teams on surgical complications in patients undergoing sacral tumor resection.

METHODS

We reviewed all patients with primary or metastatic sacral tumors managed at a single comprehensive cancer center over a 7-year period. Perioperative complication rates were compared between those treated by an unassisted spinal oncologist and those treated with the assistance of at least 1 other surgical specialty. Statistical analysis involved univariable and stepwise multivariable logistic regression models to identify predictors of multidisciplinary management and 30-day complications.

RESULTS

A total of 107 patients underwent 132 operations for sacral tumors; 92 operations involved multidisciplinary teams, including 54% of metastatic tumor operations and 74% of primary tumor operations. Patients receiving multidisciplinary management had higher body mass indexes (29.8 vs. 26.3 kg/m²; P = 0.008), larger tumors (258 vs. 55 cm³; P < 0.001), and higher American Society of Anesthesiologists scores (3 vs. 2; P = 0.049). Only larger tumor volume (odds ratio [OR], 1.007 per cm³; P < 0.001) and undergoing treatment for a malignant primary versus a metastatic tumor (OR, 23.4; P < 0.001) or benign primary tumor (OR, 29.3; P < 0.001) were predictive of multidisciplinary management. Although operations involving multidisciplinary teams were longer (467 vs. 231 minutes; P < 0.001) and had higher blood loss (1698 vs. 774 mL; P = 0.004), 30-day complication rates were similar (37 vs. 27%; P = 0.39). On multivariable analysis, only larger tumor volume (OR, 1.004 per cm³; P = 0.005) and longer surgical duration (OR, 1.002 per minute; P = 0.03) independently predicted higher 30-day complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Although patients managed with multidisciplinary teams had larger tumors and worse baseline health, 30-day complications were similar. This finding suggests that the use of multidisciplinary teams may help to mitigate surgical morbidity in those with high baseline risk.

The Effect of Intraoperative Radiotherapy on Healing and Complications After Sacrectomy and Immediate Reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

Sacropelvic resection is the treatment of choice for pelvic bone tumors and can be associated with intraoperative electron radiotherapy (IOERT) to optimize local control of the disease. Reconstruction with flaps also is essential to avoid pelvic complications. There is scarcity of publications evaluating outcomes of reconstructive procedures associated with IOERT.

METHODS

A prospective study in 53 patients between 2005 and 2018 was performed. Thirty-four patients received IOERT (group I [GI]) and 19 did not (GII). We examined demographic characteristics, tumor pathology, type of resection and volume of surgical specimen, timing of surgery, IOERT doses, postoperative stay, and complications. We used it for reconstruction rectus abdominis, gluteal, omental and gracilis, superior gluteal artery perforator flap, and free flaps.

RESULTS

Colonic adenocarcinoma and chordoma were the most frequent tumors. The median (interquartile range) IOERT dose was 1250 (1000-1250) cGy; operating time was 10.15 (8.6-14.0) hours versus 6.0 (5.0-13.0) hours, hospital stay was 37 (21.2-63.0) days versus 26.0 (12.0-60.0) days, and volume of surgical specimen was 480.5 (88.7-1488.0) mL versus 400 (220.0-6700.0) mL in GI and GII, respectively. Operating time was significantly longer in GI (P < 0.03). There were significant positive correlations between operating time, hospital stay, and volume of surgical specimen. Main complications were exudative wounds (50% vs 31.5%), wound dehiscence (41.1% vs 31.5%), and seroma (29.4% vs 26.3%) in GI and GII, respectively. Complications were similar to previous studies with or without radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Under a reconstructive approach, IOERT did not harm flap survival nor increased pelvic complications when compared with similar cases without IOERT.

[Treatment concepts for complications after resection and defect reconstruction of pelvic tumours]

BACKGROUND

Partial pelvic resection, internal hemipelvectomy or sacrectomy as a result of bone sarcoma is still challenging. No matter what kind of reconstruction is used, there is still a much higher rate of complications in pelvic surgery compared to sarcoma surgery of the long bones.

OBJECTIVES

We describe the most common complications in pelvic sarcoma surgery and specific complications related to the reconstruction method. Handling strategies for these complications are specified.

METHODS

We performed a literature search and report our own experiences in the troubleshooting of pelvic surgery-related complications to gain an up-to-date overview of the state-of-the-art in management strategies.

RESULTS

Prospective randomized trials or meta-analyses on this topic are lacking. The literature search depicted that, besides local recurrence, deep infection after reconstruction is the most serious complication. An early revision with radical debridement has to be performed in order to save the reconstruction. In the case of a deep infection, the removal of all implants with a total loss of the reconstruction is often unavoidable. Therefore, an individualized risk-benefit analysis prior to surgery with respect to the type of reconstruction, or no reconstruction at all (hip transposition), together with the patient is advisable.

CONCLUSIONS

Complications-especially infections-after hemipelvectomy or sacrectomy are common. In the case of infection, in some cases, an early revision is the only chance to prevent a reconstruction from explantation.

Complex Reconstruction of a Pelvic Marjolin's Ulcer Arising from Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The chronic inflammation of hidradenitis suppurativa can cause painful nodules, draining abscesses, sinus tracts, and fibrous scars. This long-term cutaneous inflammation in rare circumstances can lead to malignant transformation producing an aggressive cutaneous malignancy referred to as a Marjolin’s ulcer. Particularly when a Marjolin’s ulcer involves the sacral region, resection and reconstruction can be challenging. We present the case of a patient with a recurrent Marjolin’s ulcer originating from a hidradenitis wound bed overlying and involving the sacrum. Previous radiation, large defect size, and sacral and perianal involvement necessitated the use of a multiflap approach. An extended transpelvic vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap, bilateral gluteal advancement flaps, and a delayed transverse back flap were used to reconstruct the defect after abdominoperineal resection and nerve-sparing partial sacrectomy. Flap choice was derived by dividing the defect into anatomic subunits and considering intrapelvic defect volume, creating a systematic approach that led to successful reconstruction and functional restoration.

Risk Factors Associated with Reconstructive Complications Following Sacrectomy

BACKGROUND

Sacral pathology requiring partial or total sacrectomy is rare, and reconstructing the ensuing defects requires careful decision-making to minimize morbidity. The purpose of this study was to review the experience of a single institution with reconstructing large sacral defects, to identify risk factors for suboptimal outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients who underwent sacrectomy over a 10-year period. Univariate analysis of differences in risk factors between patients with and without various postoperative complications was performed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictive variables.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients were identified. The most common diagnosis leading to sacrectomy was chordoma (39%). Total sacrectomy was performed on 4 patients, whereas 24 patients underwent partial resection. Reconstructive modalities included 15 gluteal advancement flaps, 4 pedicled rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps, and 9 paraspinous muscle or other flap types. There was an overall complication rate of 57.1% (n = 12) and a 28.6% (n = 8) incidence of major complications. There were significantly more flap-related complications in patients who underwent total sacrectomy (P = 0.02). Large defect size resulted in significantly more unplanned returns to the operating room (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Consistent with other published series', the overall complication rate exceeded 50%. Defect volume and sacrectomy type were the strongest predictors of postoperative complications and return to the operating room, while reconstructive strategy showed limited power to predict patient outcomes. We recommend that patients anticipated to have large sacral defects should be appropriately counseled regarding the incidence of wound complications, regardless of reconstructive approach.

Clinical results and quality of life after reconstruction following sacrectomy for primary bone malignancy

BACKGROUND

Sacrectomy is a rare and demanding surgical procedure that results in major soft tissue defects and spinopelvic discontinuity. No consensus is available on the optimal reconstruction algorithm. Therefore, the present study evaluated the results of sacrectomy reconstruction and its impact on patients' quality of life (QOL).

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted for 21 patients who underwent sacrectomy for a primary bone tumour. Patients were divided into groups based on the timing of reconstruction as follows: no reconstruction, immediate reconstruction or delayed reconstruction. QOL was measured using the EQ-5D instrument before and after surgery in patients treated in the intensive care unit.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 57 (range 22-81) years. The most common reconstruction was gluteal muscle flap (n = 9) and gluteal fasciocutaneous flap (n = 4). Four patients required free-tissue transfer, three latissimus dorsi flaps and one vascular fibula bone transfer. No free flap losses were noted. The need for unplanned re-operations did not differ between groups (p = 0.397), and no significant differences were found for pre- and post-operative QOL or any of its dimensions.

DISCUSSION

Free flap surgery is reliable for reconstructing the largest sacrectomy defects. Even in the most complex cases, surgery can be safely staged, and final reconstruction can be carried out within 1 week of resection surgery without increasing peri‑operative complications. Sacrectomy does not have an immoderate effect on the measured QOL.

Rare case of a recurrent juvenile ossifying fibroma of the lumbosacral spine

Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is a rare benign bone tumor that occurs most frequently in the craniofacial bones of children and young adults. There are few case reports that describe its involvement outside the craniofacial skeleton, especially within the spinal column. While JOF is classified as a benign lesion, it may be locally aggressive and demonstrate a high propensity for recurrence, even after resection. Definitive surgical management may be challenging in naive cases, but it is particularly challenging in recurrent cases and when extensive spinal reconstruction is warranted. In this report, the authors describe the diagnosis and surgical management of a 29-year-old man who presented with a large recurrent sacral trabecular-subtype JOF. A review of literature regarding JOFs, management of recurrent primary spinal tumors, and sacral reconstruction are discussed.

Outcomes and Complications of Reconstruction with Use of Free Vascularized Fibular Graft for Spinal and Pelvic Defects Following Resection of a Malignant Tumor

BACKGROUND

Following resection of malignant tumors of the spine and pelvis, reconstructive surgeons often face large structural defects. Unlike reconstruction in the extremities, wherein a free vascularized fibular graft (FVFG) is a highly utilized option for segmental osseous reconstruction, there are limited data on the use of an FVFG in the spine and pelvis. The aim of this study was to review our institution's experience with reconstruction with use of an FVFG following oncological resection in the spine and pelvis.

METHODS

We reviewed 24 cases involving the use of an FVFG in reconstruction of segmental osseous defects of the spine and pelvis following oncological resection from 2000 to 2015. The cohort consisted of 12 male and 12 female patients with a mean age of 37 years and a mean follow-up of 5 years. Fifty-four percent of the reconstructions were spinopelvic or sacropelvic.

RESULTS

The overall 2, 5, and 10-year rate of survival was 76%, 55%, and 37%, respectively. With regard to disease-free survival, the overall 2, 5, and 10-year rate was 81%, 72%, and 48%. The overall rate of union was 86%, with a mean time to union of 7 months. Complications were common, with 83% of the patients sustaining at least 1 postoperative complication. Following the procedure, the mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society rating was 53%.

CONCLUSIONS

An FVFG provides a durable means of reconstruction of osseous defects in the spine and pelvis. Although patient function was acceptable following these large reconstructions, the rate of postoperative complications was high.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Image-guided resection of aggressive sacral tumors

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify and discuss operative nuances utilizing image guidance in the surgical management of aggressive sacral tumors. METHODS The authors report on their single-institution, multi-surgeon, retrospective case series involving patients with pathology-proven aggressive sacral tumors treated between 2009 and 2016. They also reviewed the literature to identify articles related to aggressive sacral tumors, their diagnosis, and their surgical treatment and discuss the results together with their own experience. Information, including background, imaging, treatment, and surgical pearls, is organized by tumor type. RESULTS Review of the institutional records identified 6 patients with sacral tumors who underwent surgery between 2009 and 2016. All 6 patients were treated with image-guided surgery using cone-beam CT technology (O-arm). The surgical technique used is described in detail, and 2 illustrative cases are presented. From the literature, the authors compiled information about chordomas, chondrosarcomas, giant cell tumors, and osteosarcomas and organized it by tumor type, providing a detailed discussion of background, imaging, and treatment as well as surgical pearls for each tumor type. CONCLUSIONS Aggressive sacral tumors can be an extremely difficult challenge for both the patient and the treating physician. The selected surgical intervention varies depending on the type of tumor, size, and location. Surgery can have profound risks including neural compression, lumbopelvic instability, and suboptimal oncological resection. Focusing on the operative nuances for each type can help prevent many of these complications. Anecdotal evidence is provided that utilization of image-guided surgery to aid in tumor resection at our institution has helped reduce blood loss and the local recurrence rate while preserving function in both malignant and aggressive benign tumors affecting the sacrum.

Use of S2-Alar-iliac Screws Associated With Less Complications Than Iliac Screws in Adult Lumbosacropelvic Fixation

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective comparative study.

OBJECTIVE

To compare clinical and radiographic outcomes between the S2-alar-iliac (S2AI) and the iliac screw (IS) techniques in the adult population and clarify the clinical strength of S2AI screws.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

S2AI screws have been described as an alternative method for lumbosacropelvic fixation in place of ISs. The S2AI technique has several advantages with lower prominence, increased ability to directly connect to proximal instrumentation, less extensive dissection of tissue, and enhanced biomechanical strength over the IS technique. However, the clinical significance of these advantages remains unclear.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective review of patients who underwent lumbosacropelvic fixation yielded 25 IS group patients and 65 S2AI group patients. Baseline demographic information, postoperative complications, pain and functional outcomes, and screw-related outcomes were collected.

RESULTS

The S2AI group had lower rates of reoperation (8.8% vs. 48.0%, P < 0.001), surgical site infection (SSI) (1.5% vs. 44.0%, P < 0.001), wound dehiscence (1.5% vs. 36.0%, P < 0.001), and symptomatic screw prominence (0.0% vs. 12.0%, P = 0.02) than the IS group, whereas rates of L5-S1 pseudarthrosis, proximal junctional failure, and sacroiliac joint pain were similar in both groups. Statistically significant pain relief and functional recovery were achieved in both groups without any significant intergroup differences. On multivariate analyses, age [odds ratio (OR) = 0.91, P = 0.004] and S2AI instrumentation (OR = 0.08, P < 0.001) were protective of reoperation, whereas diabetes mellitus (OR = 10.9, P = 0.03) and preoperative diagnosis of tumor (OR = 12.3, P = 0.04) were associated with SSI, and S2AI instrumentation (OR = 0.09, P < 0.001) was protective of SSI.

CONCLUSION

The use of the S2AI technique over the IS technique was an independent predictor of preventing reoperation and SSI, while achieving similar clinical and functional outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Soft Tissue and Bone Defect Management in Total Sacrectomy for Primary Sacral Tumors: A Systematic Review With Expert Recommendations

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and expert consensus.

OBJECTIVE

To address the following two questions: (A) Is there a difference in outcomes after spino-pelvic reconstruction of total sacrectomy defects compared with no reconstruction? (B) What constitutes best surgical technique for soft tissue and bony reconstruction after total sacrectomy?

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The management of the soft tissue and bony defect after total sacrectomy for primary sacral tumors remains a challenge due to the complex anatomical relationships and biomechanical requirements. The scarcity of evidence-based literature in this specialized field makes it difficult for the treating surgeon to make an informed choice.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed (1950-2015), followed by a meeting of an international expert panel. Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases and Cochrane Libraries were searched. Using the GRADE guidelines, the panel of experts formulated recommendations based on the available evidence.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-three studies were identified. Of these, 17 studies were included and were case series. Seven were evaluated as high quality of evidence and nine were of low quality. There were a total of 116 participants. Three studies included patients (n = 24) with no spino-pelvic reconstruction. One study included patients (n = 3) with vascularized bone reconstruction. Twelve studies included patients (n = 80) with no soft tissue reconstruction, three studies described patients with a local flap (n = 20), and four studies with patients having regional flap reconstruction (n = 16). Patients with or without spino-pelvic reconstruction had similar outcomes with regards to walking; however, most patients in the nonreconstructed group had some ilio-lumbar ligamentous stability preserved. The wound dehiscence and return to theater rates were higher in patients with no soft tissue reconstruction.

CONCLUSION

We recommend spino-pelvic reconstruction be undertaken with soft tissue reconstruction after total sacrectomy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A.

Optimizing the Adverse Event and HRQOL Profiles in the Management of Primary Spine Tumors

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic literature review.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate if evidence-based principles of oncologic resection for primary spinal tumors are correlated with an acceptable morbidity and mortality profile and satisfactory health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Respecting oncologic principles for primary spinal tumor surgery is correlated with lower recurrence rates. These interventions are, however, often highly morbid.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed to address the objectives by searching MEDLINE and EBMR databases. Articles that met our inclusion criteria were reviewed. GRADE guidelines were used for recommendation formulation.

RESULTS

A total of 25 articles addressing the morbidity and mortality profile of primary spinal tumor surgery were identified. For sacral tumors, complication rates of up to 100% have been reported and complication-related death ranged from 0% to 27%. Mobile spine tumor complication rates varied from 13% to 73.7% and complication-related death ranged from 0% to 7.7%. Seven articles examining HRQOL for this patient population were identified. The limited literature showed comparable patient HRQOL profiles to those with benign conditions such as degenerative disc disease.

CONCLUSION

Respecting oncologic principles for primary spinal tumors are correlated with high adverse event rates. We recommend that primary spinal tumor surgeries be performed in experienced centers with multidisciplinary support teams and that prospective adverse event collection be promoted (strong recommendation/very low certainty of the evidence). Oncologic resection of primary tumors of the spine is associated with HRQOL that more closely approximates normative values with increasing duration of follow-up, but decreases with disease recurrence. We recommend primary spinal tumor surgery be performed with a curative intent whenever possible, even at the expense of greater initial morbidity to optimize long-term HRQOL (strong recommendation/very low certainty of the evidence).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A.

Pelvic Reconstruction Surgery Using a Dual-Rod Technique with Diverse U-Shaped Rods After Posterior En Bloc Partial Sacrectomy for a Sacral Tumor: 2 Case Reports and a Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Spinopelvic reconstruction after sacrectomy for a sacropelvic tumor can result in various complications and requires a highly complicated surgical technique. We report 2 cases of pelvic reconstruction surgery using diverse U-shaped rods (USRs) after partial sacrectomy.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A partial sacrectomy was performed for 2 different cases: one case was a metastatic sacral tumor and the other was a chordoma. In the first case, reconstruction was completed with an inner straight rod and an outer USR. The other patient underwent reconstruction using an inner USR and an outer straight rod. In both cases, there was no instrument failure, and the lumbosacral junction was reconstructed in balance. One of the patients died of metastatic lung cancer, and the other patient is alive and has experienced no other complications.

CONCLUSIONS

A pelvic reconstruction technique using diverse USRs showed good spinopelvic stability without complications. This technique may be a surgical option for reconstructive surgery after partial sacrectomy.

Health-Related Quality of Life After Spine Surgery for Primary Bone Tumour

OPINION STATEMENT

Treatment of primary bone tumours (PBT) of the spine is complex, often involving numerous surgical and oncology disciplines. Surgical en bloc resection with oncologically appropriate margins is the modality of choice when treating malignant PBT. En bloc resection with wide or marginal margins appears to offer better local and systemic control of the disease. This type of surgical resection can also be considered when treating benign aggressive tumours such as aneurysmal bone cyst, giant cell tumour and osteoblastoma. Although these surgeries respect oncologic principles, significant morbidity and mortality are associated. Adverse event collection is highly variable in the literature and mostly from retrospective studies. Wound complication, neurologic deficit and significant blood loss are encountered with surgical resection of PBT of the mobile spine and especially, the sacrum. The adverse event profile of these surgeries is high even in experienced quaternary referral centres. Therefore, primary spinal tumour resection is best performed in experienced centre with adequate multidisciplinary support. Furthermore, prospective and systematic adverse event data collection should be developed to ensure accurate data. The impact of such extensive and potentially impairment producing procedures on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is another critically valuable piece of information in the era of shared treatment decision making. At the present time, there is paucity of published data regarding HRQOL following these surgeries. Nonetheless, in theory, it seems that health-related quality of life after surgery for PBT is acceptable given the curative intent of the treatment. However, a decision-making process should be tailored to each patient and his or her expectations. Comprehensive discussions should be held preoperatively with the patient, family and other related allied health professionals if the informed consent and decision-making process is to be optimal.

Reconstructive surgery using dual U-shaped rod instrumentation after posterior en bloc sacral hemiresection for metastatic tumor: case report

Despite various complications associated with sacrectomy to remove sacral tumors, total or en bloc sacrectomy has been suggested as the most appropriate surgical treatment in such cases. The authors present the case of a 62-year-old male patient with intractable back pain and voiding difficulty whom they treated with posterior en bloc sacral hemiresection followed by reconstruction using dual U-shaped rods. They report that good spinopelvic stability was achieved without complications. The authors conclude that this technique is relatively simple compared with other sacral reconstructive techniques and can prevent complications, including herniation.