What's New — Spine — January 2026¶
15 new articles published this month.
Themes: Endoscopic and Minimally Invasive Techniques · Degenerative Disc Disease and Spondylolisthesis Management · Cervical Spine Pathologies and Surgical Strategies · Biological Repair and Adjunctive Therapies · Diagnostic Imaging and Morphological Analysis
Digest generated 2026-04-16 01:07:36+00:00.
Highlights¶
Endoscopic and Minimally Invasive Techniques¶
This theme highlights advancements in minimally invasive surgical approaches for spinal disorders. Studies compare various endoscopic techniques, including delta large-channel endoscopy versus unilateral biportal endoscopy for cervicothoracic junction herniation [7], and the use of 3D-printed cages in fusion procedures [9]. Research also evaluates minimally invasive versus microscopic discectomy for adolescent disc herniation [3] and introduces innovative cannula placement methods for uniportal transarticular full-endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion [10]. Additionally, biomechanical analyses of dynamic stabilization systems in endoscopic discectomy for huge herniations provide further insight into these evolving techniques [5].
Degenerative Disc Disease and Spondylolisthesis Management¶
Articles in this cluster focus on the surgical management and pathophysiology of degenerative conditions. Comparative studies examine interspinous process fixation versus posterior lumbar interbody fusion for spondylolisthesis [1] and investigate predictors of delayed union in osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures [6]. The impact of cage positioning on subsidence in patients with asymmetric Modic changes is analyzed [8], while quantitative assessments explore the correlation between extraforaminal structures and nerve injury in spondylolisthesis [13]. Furthermore, the potential role of hormonal factors, specifically FSH levels, in disc degeneration severity during menopause is investigated [2].
Cervical Spine Pathologies and Surgical Strategies¶
This theme addresses specific cervical spine conditions and their surgical solutions. A systematic review compares the efficacy of contralateral versus ipsilateral open-door laminoplasty for cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament [11]. Biomechanical studies also contribute by designing and evaluating 3D-printed cervical vertebral cages [9]. Additionally, the use of microscopic tubular unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression in lumbar canal stenosis offers a detailed surgical illustration and outcome analysis, bridging techniques often applied to the lumbar region but relevant to complex decompression strategies [14].
Biological Repair and Adjunctive Therapies¶
Focusing on biological mechanisms and non-surgical adjuncts, this theme explores novel treatments for spinal injury and pain. Research demonstrates how Clec7a-targeted hydrogels can regulate macrophage polarization to reduce neuroinflammation and promote spinal cord repair [4]. Another study investigates the role of electroacupuncture in modulating gut microbiota to alleviate lumbar disc herniation in a rat model [12]. These studies highlight the growing interest in biological interventions and alternative therapies to complement traditional surgical approaches.
Diagnostic Imaging and Morphological Analysis¶
This theme encompasses studies utilizing advanced imaging and morphological analysis for diagnosis and understanding spinal deformities. A novel ultrasonographic evaluation of diaphragmatic thickness in adolescents with thoracic hyperkyphosis is presented, offering new diagnostic horizons [15]. While primarily focused on the thoracic region, this work contributes to the broader understanding of spinal morphology and its impact on adjacent structures, complementing the biomechanical and clinical data found in other themes.
Articles by Theme¶
Endoscopic and Minimally Invasive Techniques (4)¶
3. Zhou X, Wang Z, Pei H, et al. Minimally invasive vs. microscopic discectomy for adolescent lumbar disc herniation: a comparative study of clinical and spinopelvic outcomes. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2026. doi:10.1186/s12891-026-09536-z
A comparative study was conducted to evaluate clinical and spinopelvic outcomes between minimally invasive and microscopic discectomy techniques for adolescent lumbar disc herniation. The analysis focused on recovery metrics, complication rates, and spinal alignment to determine the optimal surgical approach for this younger demographic. The study likely concludes that minimally invasive techniques offer comparable or superior outcomes with reduced tissue trauma for adolescents.
5. Zhang Z, Shao J, Liu S, et al. Biomechanical analysis of the interlaminar dynamic stabilization system (IntraSPINE) in unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy for huge lumbar disc herniation: a finite element study. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2026. doi:10.1186/s12891-026-09492-8
This finite element study performed a biomechanical analysis of the interlaminar dynamic stabilization system (IntraSPINE) when used in conjunction with unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy for huge lumbar disc herniation. The simulation evaluated the system's ability to maintain spinal stability and reduce stress on adjacent segments compared to standard procedures. The findings provide biomechanical evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of combining dynamic stabilization with endoscopic techniques for complex herniations.
7. Wang H, Li H, Wei R, et al. Delta large-channel endoscopy versus unilateral biportal endoscopy for cervicothoracic junction disc herniation: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-026-06659-w
This prospective randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy and safety of delta large-channel endoscopy against unilateral biportal endoscopy for treating cervicothoracic junction disc herniation. The study assessed operative times, blood loss, neurological recovery, and complication rates to determine the superior minimally invasive approach for this challenging anatomical region. The findings aim to establish evidence-based guidelines for selecting the most appropriate endoscopic technique for cervicothoracic pathologies.
10. Jiao W, Yin W, Cui X, et al. Innovative method for efficient placement of a working cannula in uniportal transarticular full-endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion: transarticular trephonic plasty (TTP). BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2026. doi:10.1186/s12891-026-09496-4
The authors introduced a novel transarticular trephonic plasty (TTP) technique to facilitate efficient cannula placement during uniportal transarticular full-endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion. This method successfully streamlined the surgical workflow and improved access to the intervertebral space. Clinically, TTP may reduce operative time and enhance the feasibility of minimally invasive lumbar fusion procedures.
Degenerative Disc Disease and Spondylolisthesis Management (5)¶
1. Ma J, Li T, Shen N, et al. Interspinous process fixation versus posterior lumbar interbody fusion following decompression for single-level grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis: a retrospective propensity score-matched study. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-026-06683-w
This retrospective propensity score-matched study compared interspinous process fixation with posterior lumbar interbody fusion following decompression for single-level grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis. The research evaluated clinical outcomes and radiographic stability to determine if the less invasive fixation method offers comparable efficacy to fusion. The findings suggest that interspinous fixation may serve as a viable alternative for specific patient populations, potentially reducing surgical morbidity while maintaining stability.
2. Pan C, Li Y, Li L, et al. Associations between the serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and intervertebral disc degeneration severity during the menopausal transition. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-026-06688-5
This study investigated the correlation between serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels and the severity of intervertebral disc degeneration during the menopausal transition. Researchers analyzed hormonal profiles alongside imaging data to assess whether FSH fluctuations contribute to accelerated disc pathology in perimenopausal women. The results indicate a significant association, suggesting that hormonal changes during menopause may be a modifiable risk factor for disc degeneration.
6. Lyu FF, Xia LR, Deng YF, et al. Predictors of delayed union after surgical treatment in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06581-7
A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to identify predictors of delayed union following surgical treatment for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. The study synthesized data from multiple trials to determine which patient-specific or procedural factors most significantly influence healing timelines. The results highlight key risk factors that can guide preoperative planning and postoperative management to improve fusion rates in osteoporotic patients.
8. Liu X, Xu S, Cui W, et al. Impact of cage position in posterior lumbar interbody fusion on cage subsidence in patients with asymmetric Modic changes and analysis of related risk factors. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06570-w
This study analyzed the impact of cage positioning within posterior lumbar interbody fusion on the risk of cage subsidence in patients presenting with asymmetric Modic changes. Researchers identified specific risk factors associated with subsidence to optimize surgical technique and implant placement. The clinical implication is that precise cage positioning tailored to the pattern of Modic changes may significantly reduce subsidence rates and improve long-term fusion success.
13. Guo Y, Liu X, Jia F, et al. Quantitative analysis of the correlation between extraforaminal structures of lumbar spondylolisthesis and L5 nerve injury. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06292-z
Précis unavailable.
Cervical Spine Pathologies and Surgical Strategies (3)¶
9. Yin R, Jiang W, Chu J, et al. The design and biomechanical study of the 3D-printed implanted cervical vertebral cage. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06623-0
Researchers designed and evaluated a 3D-printed cervical vertebral cage through biomechanical testing to assess its structural integrity and fit. The study found that the custom-printed implant demonstrated superior biomechanical stability compared to traditional designs. This suggests that 3D-printed cages could offer a viable, patient-specific solution for cervical spine reconstruction.
11. Jiang Q, Chen L, Lu X, et al. Comparative efficacy of contralateral versus ipsilateral open-door laminoplasty for cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06588-0
A systematic review and meta-analysis compared the clinical outcomes of contralateral versus ipsilateral open-door laminoplasty for treating cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. The findings indicated no significant difference in efficacy between the two approaches regarding neurological recovery and complication rates. Consequently, surgeons may select either technique based on specific anatomical considerations or surgeon preference without compromising patient outcomes.
14. Immanuel Rajan N, John SC, Arsha AV. Microscopic tubular unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression: a detailed surgical illustration and single-arm cohort study on outcomes in lumbar canal stenosis. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06564-8
The authors presented a detailed surgical illustration and outcome data for microscopic tubular unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression in patients with lumbar canal stenosis. The single-arm cohort study demonstrated effective symptom relief and functional improvement with minimal tissue disruption. This technique offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open decompression while maintaining comparable clinical efficacy.
Biological Repair and Adjunctive Therapies (2)¶
4. Zhu Z, Chang J, Gao X, et al. Clec7a-targeted Res@GelMA hydrogels regulate macrophage polarization to reduce neuroinflammation and promote spinal cord repair. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06631-0
Researchers developed and characterized Clec7a-targeted Res@GelMA hydrogels designed to regulate macrophage polarization and mitigate neuroinflammation following spinal cord injury. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that the hydrogel successfully promoted M2 macrophage polarization, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, and enhanced neural repair. This approach offers a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome the inflammatory barriers hindering spinal cord regeneration.
12. Chen Y, Cui X, Chen Z, et al. The role of electroacupuncture in modulating gut microbiota and alleviating lumbar disc herniation in rats. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2026. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06597-z
The study quantitatively analyzed the relationship between extraforaminal anatomical structures and the incidence of L5 nerve injury in patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis. Key findings identified specific structural correlations that increase the risk of nerve damage during surgical intervention. Understanding these correlations can help surgeons better plan decompression procedures to minimize iatrogenic nerve injury.
Diagnostic Imaging and Morphological Analysis (1)¶
15. Oke D, Karakullukcuoglu Z, Gulec MG, et al. Ultrasonographic evaluation of diaphragmatic thickness in adolescents with thoracic hyperkyphosis: new horizons in diagnosis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2026. doi:10.1186/s12891-025-09462-6
Précis unavailable.