Epidemiology of Cervical Fracture/Cervical Spinal Cord Injury and Changes in Surgical Treatment Modalities in Elderly Individuals During a 10-year Period: A Nationwide Multicenter Study in Japan

Global Spine Journal, 2024 · DOI: 10.1177/21925682231151643 · Published: May 1, 2024

Simple Explanation

This study looks at the trends in cervical spine fractures and spinal cord injuries in elderly patients in Japan over a 10-year period. It examines how the number of cases and surgical approaches have changed. The research found an increase in both the number of elderly patients with these injuries and the number undergoing surgery. Surgical techniques, particularly the use of screws, have also evolved. Despite the increase in surgeries and changes in techniques, the study found that the rate of serious complications remained relatively stable. This suggests that while more surgeries are being performed, they are generally being done safely.

Study Duration

10 years

Participants

1413 patients aged ≥65 years

Evidence Level

Level III, Retrospective multicenter study

Key Findings

1
The number of elderly patients with cervical fractures and spinal cord injuries significantly increased over the 10-year study period.
2
Posterior surgery remained the most common surgical approach, but the use of instrumentation with screws significantly increased.
3
There was a significant increase in the range of fusion (number of vertebrae fused) during surgery in the later period of the study.

Research Summary

This study investigated the epidemiology and surgical treatment of cervical fractures (CF) and/or cervical spinal cord injuries (CSCI) in elderly patients over a 10-year period in Japan. The number of elderly patients with CF and/or CSCI and the number of patients undergoing surgery significantly increased, while patient profiles remained relatively stable. The use of screw instrumentation and the range of fusion increased in the late period, and the incidence of perioperative complications and mortality did not significantly differ between the two periods.

Practical Implications

Increased Surgical Volume

Healthcare systems should prepare for an increasing number of elderly patients requiring surgical intervention for cervical fractures and spinal cord injuries.

Technological Advancements

Continued research and development of safer and more effective screw-based instrumentation techniques are warranted to address the specific challenges of elderly patients.

Rehabilitation Focus

Rehabilitation programs should be optimized to improve outcomes and facilitate the return of elderly patients to their homes after surgical treatment.

Study Limitations

1
Selection bias due to the retrospective nature of the study.
2
The study was based on data from a single country (Japan).
3
The data set did not include younger patients, limiting the generalizability of the results.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury