Work

Synergistic predictive value of MRI-based vertebral bone quality and CT hounsfield units for postoperative sagittal balance deterioration after cervical laminoplasty

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Sagittal balance deterioration is major concern after cervical laminoplasty, which affects neurological recovery and quality of life. Preoperative bone quality may play a key role. CT-derived Hounsfield Unit (HU) values reflect bone mineral density, while MRI-derived vertebral bone quality (VBQ) values indicate bone marrow fat content. Their combined predictive value remains unclear. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzes 104 patients (mean age 58.4 ± 11.6 years) who undergo posterior single-door laminoplasty with preoperative cervical CT and MRI. Mean HU and VBQ values (C2-T1) are measured, and patients are classified by postoperative change in cervical sagittal vertical axis (ΔcSVA). Logistic regression and ROC analyses are used to evaluate predictive performance. Results: = 0.0016). ROC analysis shows AUCs of 0.690 for HU, 0.747 for VBQ, and 0.791 for the combined VBQ + HU model, with improved sensitivity (0.838) and specificity (0.597). Conclusion: Decreased HU and elevated VBQ independently predict postoperative sagittal balance deterioration, reflecting complementary aspects of vertebral bone quality. The combined MRI- and CT-based assessment improves prediction accuracy and assists in preoperative risk stratification and individualized surgical planning.

Source: Frontiers in Surgery

DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2025.1722804

Authors: Bin Zheng, Panfeng Yu, Zhenqi Zhu, Yan Liang, Haiying Liu

Institution: Peking University People's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Cervical and Thoracic Myelopathy

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801