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Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) has become the greatest challenge in surgery for spinal deformity. PJK is detected by radiologic findings indicating that a pathologic problem has developed internally around the adjacent segment after a spinal fusion.
Other kyphosis, thoracic region 1 M40.294 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. 2 The 2019 edition of ICD-10-CM M40.294 became effective on October 1, 2018. 3 This is the American ICD-10-CM version of M40.294 - other international versions of ICD-10 M40.294 may differ.
Type of anchor at the proximal fusion level has a significant effect on the incidence of proximal junctional kyphosis and outcome in adults after long posterior spinal fusion. Spine Deformity. 2013; 1(4):299–305.
Once a patient has a problem around the proximal junction, evaluating the existence of clinical symptoms should be prioritized. If there are no symptoms prompt treatment is not required in most cases, but if severe symptoms exist or a deformity of the proximal junction progresses rapidly surgical treatment will be required.
Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is a common complication following adult spinal deformity surgery or a long spinal fusion. It is characterized by an abnormal bend of the vertebral column or spine, resulting in pain and reduced function.
Abstract. Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is a common complication following adult spinal deformity surgery. It is defined by two criteria: a proximal junctional sagittal Cobb angle (1) ≥10° and (2) at least 10° greater than the preoperative measurement.
Unspecified kyphosis, site unspecified M40. 209 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. The 2022 edition of ICD-10-CM M40. 209 became effective on October 1, 2021.
DEFINITION OF PROXIMAL JUNCTIONAL FAILURE PJF is a progressive form of the PJK spectrum including vertebral fracture of UIV or UIV+1, subluxation between UIV and UIV+1, failure of fixation, neurological deficit, which may require revision surgery for proximal extension of fusion16,40,44,49).
Distal junctional kyphosis (DJK) is a radiographic finding in patients that undergo spinal instrumentation and fusion, since there is an abrupt transition between fixed and mobile spinal segments. The true incidence of DJK is variable in literature and seems that has a multifactorial etiology.
Kyphosis is a spinal disorder in which an excessive curve of the spine results in an abnormal rounding of the upper back. The condition is sometimes known as roundback or — in the case of a severe curve — as hunchback. Kyphosis can occur at any age but is common during adolescence.
Unspecified kyphosis, thoracic region M40. 204 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. The 2022 edition of ICD-10-CM M40. 204 became effective on October 1, 2021.
Kyphosis refers to a condition in which the spine in the upper back has an excessive curvature. Also known as round back or hunchback, this spinal disorder can occur in any age, but is most common in adolescence or young adulthood. Having a small curve in the upper back area is normal.
Lordosis (also known as swayback) is when the lower back, above the buttocks, curves inward too much, causing the child's abdomen to protrude and buttocks to stick out. Kyphosis is when the upper spine curves too far outward, forming a hump on the upper back.
PJK is a common problem after the surgery for adult spinal deformity. We have found several risk factors for the development of this problem. Some solutions have been suggested. The solutions focus on pre-operative planning, alignment, and steps to augment the upper level fixation.
Use of transition rods may create a less rigid construct. The material of the rod can also have an effect on the rigidity of the construct. The use of titanium alloy, which is less stiff, has a lower rate of PJK compared to cobalt chrome. Ligaments and Muscular Tissues.
The rate varies between 17% - 46%. Most cases occur within 2 years of surgery. Two-third of cases occur within the first 3 months of surgery.
However, extending the construct higher also increases the risk of failure and weakness in limbs. Combined approach was also found to be a risk factor. Preservation of ligaments and muscle may have an effect in patients undergoing posterior surgery.
The etiologies of PJK and PJF are likely multifactorial as no study has elucidated a single variable that strongly and consistently predicts their development. However, several major risk factors for PJK and PJF have been described.
Given that the prevalence of elevated thoracic kyphosis ranges between 20 and 40 % and is more common in geriatric patients, some authors posit that PJK represents a recurrence of deformity and/or natural history of aging rather than a postoperative complication.
Failure to recognize and differentiate PJF from PJK and initiate the proper workup and treatment can put patients at risk of neurologic compromise. Unlike patients with PJK, patients with PJF can experience loss of neurologic function. Although pain can be substantial, some patients may have limited new complaints [ 18, 22, 24, 27, 29 ].
Currently, there is no standard consensus to guide the surgeon in determining which patients with PJK would benefit most from revision surgery. In general, patients who are asymptomatic are managed with reassurance, education, and close monitoring (Figs. 17.1 and 17.2 ).