The prevalence of 11 ribs and its potential implications in spine surgery

Gonzales-Portillo, Gabriel S.; Rizvi, Omar; Avila, Mauricio J.; Dumont, Travis M.

doi:10.1016/j.clineuro.2021.106544

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 9 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…In our survey, certain preoperative investigations may aid in the reduction of possible wrong-level spine surgery. Anatomical variations can compound an already significant problem where it has been suggested that an anatomical variation of 11 ribs is present in 3.4% of the population [ 20 ]. Furthermore, the presence of cervical ribs may also need to be accounted for, however, obtaining plain radiographs was not routine practice by the vast majority of surgeons responding to our survey [ 21 ].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Intraoperative practices to prevent wrong-level spine surgery: a survey among 105 spine surgeons in the United Kingdom

2022

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Background Current literature suggests that wrong-level spine surgery is relatively common with far-reaching consequences. This study aims to assess the current practices of spinal surgeons across the UK with respect to the techniques implemented for correct level verification. Methods To assess the current practices of spinal surgeons across the UK with respect to the techniques implemented for level verification. The authors hypothesise the absence of a standardised technique used across spine surgeons in the UK. Practices amongst respondents will be ascertained via an electronic questionnaire designed to evaluate current practices of spinal surgeons whom are members of the British Association of Spinal Surgeons (BASS). The study data will include key information such as; the level of surgical experience, specific techniques used to perform level checks for each procedure and prior involvement with wrong-level spine surgery. Responses were collected over the period of 1 month with a reminder sent 2 weeks prior to closure of the survey. The data were collated and descriptive analyses performed on multiple-choice question answers and common themes established from free text answers. Results A total of 27% (n = 105/383) members responded. The vast majority had greater than 10 years’ experience. Intraoperative practices varied greatly with varying practices present for cervical, thoracic and lumbar level surgery. Only 38% (n = 40) of respondents re-checked the level intra-operatively, prior to instrumentation. Of the respondents 47.5% (n = 29/61) of surgeons had been involved in wrong level spinal surgery. Conclusion This study highlights the varying practices amongst spinal surgeons and suggests root cause for wrong-level spine surgery; where the level identified pre-incision was subsequently not the level exposed. We describe a novel safety-check adopted at our institute using concepts and lessons learnt from the WHO Checklist.

show abstract

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%