Comparison of the effectiveness of vertebral arch replantation and laminectomy in the treatment of mild to moderate isthmic spondylolisthesis / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of vertebral arch replantation and laminectomy in the treatment of mild to moderate isthmic spondylolisthesis. Methods: The clinical data of 66 patients with isthmic spondylolisthesis treated with vertebral arch replantation or laminectomy between March 2014 and July 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into trial group (34 cases, treated with complete replantation of vertebral arch, intervertebral fusion, and internal fixation) and control group (32 cases, treated with laminectomy with intervertebral fusion and internal fixation) according to different surgical methods. There was no significant difference in general data of gender, age, disease duration, lesion segment, Meyerding grade, and preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Oswestry disability index (ODI) score, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score between the two groups ( P>0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, complications, vertebral arch fusion of trial group, and epidural scar formation of the two groups were recorded. The VAS score, JOA score, and ODI score were evaluated at preoperation, 3, 6, 12 months after operation, and at last follow-up. The effectiveness was evaluated according to HOU Shuxun's criteria. Results: All the patients successfully completed the surgery, without any aggravation of nerve injury, dural tear, infection, etc. There was no significant difference in the operation time between the two groups ( t=0.583, P=0.562), but the intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the trial group than that in the control group ( t=2.134, P=0.037). All the 66 patients were followed up 13-18 months (mean, 16.2 months). Postoperative clinical symptoms of all patients were significantly improved. In the control group, 7 cases were found to have symptoms of spinal canal stenosis with postoperative posture changes at 3 months after operation, and 5 cases showed mild lower limb numbness at 18 months after operation. No complication such as infection and nerve injury occurred in other patients. In the trial group, 34 cases of epidural scar tissue were completely blocked outside the replantation vertebral arch, while in the control group, 11 cases of epidural scar tissue invaded the spinal canal. At last follow-up, the fusion rate of intervertebral bone grafting and vertebral arch replantation in the trial group was 100%, and the fusion rate of intervertebral bone grafting in the control group was also 100%. The VAS score, ODI score, and JOA score were significantly improved at each time point after operation ( P0.05). According to HOU Shuxun's criteria, the excellent and good rate was 91.2% in the trial group and 84.4% in the control group, showing no significant difference ( χ2=1.092, P=0.573). Conclusion: Compared with laminectomy, vertebral arch replantation can better improve postoperative neurological symptoms, maximize the reconstruction of the bone spinal canal, restore the stability of the intraspinal environment, and it is a better surgical method for lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis.

Vertebral three-dimensional motion characteristics of adjacent segments in patients with isthmic spondylolisthesis in vivo / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To observe vertebral three-dimensional motion characteristics of adjacent segments in patients with symptomatic L 4 isthmic spondylolisthesis (IS). Methods: Fourteen symptomatic L 4 IS patients who underwent surgery treatment (trial group) and 15 asymptomatic volunteers without back pain and other lesions of spine (control group) were recruited. There was no significant difference in gender, age, body mass index, and bone mineral density between the two groups ( P>0.05). The three-dimensional reconstruction model of lumbar spine was acquired from the thin slice CT of the lumbar spine of the subjects by combining dual-X-ray fluoroscopy imaging system with spiral CT examination. The model was matched to the double oblique X-ray fluoroscopy images captured by dual-X-ray fluoroscopy imaging system at different active positions of the lumbar spine to reproduce the three-dimensional instantaneous of lumbar spondylolisthesis at different state of motion. The motion and relative displacement of adjacent segments (L 3, 4 and L 5, S 1) of spondylolisthesis were measured quantitatively by establishing a three-dimensional coordinate system at the geometric center of the vertebral body. The results were compared with those of the control group. Results: When L 3, 4 in the control group were flexed flexion-extension, left-right twisting, and left-right bending, and when L 5, S 1 in the control group were flexed left-right twisting and left-right bending, the activity along the main axis of motion (main axis of motion) tended to increase compared with that along the corresponding coupled axis of motion (secondary axis of motion); however, this trend disappeared in the trial group, and the main and secondary movements were disordered. Because of the coronal orientation of the facet joints of L 5, S 1, the degree of motion along the main axis of motion decreased during flexion and extension, but this trend disappeared in the trial group. Compared with the control group, L 3, 4 in the trial group exhibited displacement instability in flexion-extension, left-right twisting, and left-right bending ( P0.05). Conclusion: Patients with symptomatic L 4 IS have disorders of primary and secondary movement patterns in adjacent segments, while IS showed significantly displacement instability in L 3, 4 and significantly decreased motion in L 5, S 1.

Replacement of Vertebral Lamina (Laminoplasty) in Surgery for Lumbar Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: 5-Year Follow-Up Results

STUDY DESIGN: A review of clinical and radiological outcomes of lumbar laminoplasty (LL) for the treatment of isthmic spondylolisthesis (ISL). PURPOSE: The single session performance of posterior lumbar interbody fusion with allograft in the anterior column and providing the realignment of the vertebrae was presented as a preliminary report earlier. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Long-term surgical outcome of cervical laminoplasty in patients has been reported. But, outcome of LL in patients is unclear. METHODS: The long-term (5 years) year follow-up results of the LL technique are reported in this retrospective study. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative direct X-ray, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. The patients that did not respond to conservative treatment were operated. Twenty-one (52.5%) female and 19 (47.5%) male patients were included. RESULTS: Mean age was 43,5 years (ranges, 22-57 years). The most common symptoms were low back pain (89%), pelvic and leg pain (69%) and reduction in walking distance (65%). A total of 180 pedicle screws were inserted in 40 patients; posterior lumbar interbody fusion and laminoplasty with reduction was performed in 20 patients for L4-L5, 12 patients for L5-S1, 4 patients for L3-L4-L5 and 4 patients for L4-L5-S1. Ten (25%) patients with ILL had accompanying spinal stenosis. The difference between preoperative and postoperative sagittal plane rotation and dislocation degrees and disc space heights were statistically significant in all patients (p<0.05). Solid grade 4 fusion was observed in 38 patients; in only 2 patients grade 2 pseudoarthrosis developed (5%), but these patients were asymptomatic. Visual analog scale, Prolo economical and functional scale was examined with an average follow-up 5.5 years. CONCLUSIONS: LL technique has the advantages of shorter duration of operation, lack of graft donor site complications, protection of posterior column osseoligamentous structures and achievement of high fusion rates in one session.

Replacement of Vertebral Lamina (Laminoplasty) in Surgery for Lumbar Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: 5-Year Follow-Up Results

STUDY DESIGN: A review of clinical and radiological outcomes of lumbar laminoplasty (LL) for the treatment of isthmic spondylolisthesis (ISL). PURPOSE: The single session performance of posterior lumbar interbody fusion with allograft in the anterior column and providing the realignment of the vertebrae was presented as a preliminary report earlier. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Long-term surgical outcome of cervical laminoplasty in patients has been reported. But, outcome of LL in patients is unclear. METHODS: The long-term (5 years) year follow-up results of the LL technique are reported in this retrospective study. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative direct X-ray, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. The patients that did not respond to conservative treatment were operated. Twenty-one (52.5%) female and 19 (47.5%) male patients were included. RESULTS: Mean age was 43,5 years (ranges, 22-57 years). The most common symptoms were low back pain (89%), pelvic and leg pain (69%) and reduction in walking distance (65%). A total of 180 pedicle screws were inserted in 40 patients; posterior lumbar interbody fusion and laminoplasty with reduction was performed in 20 patients for L4-L5, 12 patients for L5-S1, 4 patients for L3-L4-L5 and 4 patients for L4-L5-S1. Ten (25%) patients with ILL had accompanying spinal stenosis. The difference between preoperative and postoperative sagittal plane rotation and dislocation degrees and disc space heights were statistically significant in all patients (p<0.05). Solid grade 4 fusion was observed in 38 patients; in only 2 patients grade 2 pseudoarthrosis developed (5%), but these patients were asymptomatic. Visual analog scale, Prolo economical and functional scale was examined with an average follow-up 5.5 years. CONCLUSIONS: LL technique has the advantages of shorter duration of operation, lack of graft donor site complications, protection of posterior column osseoligamentous structures and achievement of high fusion rates in one session.

Importance of wide canal sign in the MR diagnosis of lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis / 实用放射学杂志

Objective To evaluate the importance of wide canal sign (increased anteroposterior diameter of the spinal canal at L5) in the MR diagnosis of lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis.Methods One hundred cases of bilateral isthmic spondylolisthesis at L5 confirmed with conventional radiography and/or CT were randomly collected.Another age and sex matched 100 cases without spon-dylolisthesis were collected as control group.The sagittal canal diameters at the L1 and L5 levels were measured and analyzed for all 100 cases of bilateral isthmic spondylolisthesis and 100 control subjects.For each group,the sagittal canal ratio(defined as the maxi-mum anteroposterior diameter of the canal at L5 level divided by the diameter of the canal at L1 )was calculated and compared be-tween the two groups ,and anylyzed with ROC curve.Results The mean midline sagittal anteroposterior diameter was (22.3 ± 1.34)mm at L5 in patients with lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis,and (18.8±1.57)mm in the control subjects.The sagittal canal ratio was 1.32 in the isthmic spondylolisthesis group and 1.12 in the control subjects,which was different significantly.ROC curve illustrated that the sagittal canal ratio 1.25 was a most meanful point with 88% sensitivity and 90% specificity.Conclusion The sag-ittal canal ratio at L5 is bigger than 1.25 meaning abnormally increased sagittal canal diameter (wide canal sign),which specifically indicates the presence of bilateral pars interarticularis defects.Using this sign can help to make correct MR diagnosis and differential diagnosis of isthmic spondylolisthesis .

Comparison of Functional Outcomes following Surgical Decompression and Posterolateral Instrumented Fusion in Single Level Low Grade Lumbar Degenerative versus Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

BACKGROUND: The two most common types of surgically treated lumbar spondylolisthesis in adults include the degenerative and isthmic types. The aim of this study was to compare the functional outcomes of surgical decompression and posterolateral instrumented fusion in patients with lumbar degenerative and isthmic spondylolisthesis. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we reviewed the clinical outcomes in surgically treated patients with single level, low grade lumbar degenerative, and isthmic spondylolisthesis (groups A and B, respectively) from August 2007 to April 2011. We tried to compare paired settings with similar initial conditions. Group A included 52 patients with a mean age of 49.2 +/- 6.1 years, and group B included 52 patients with a mean age of 47.3 +/- 7.4 years. Minimum follow-up was 24 months. The surgical procedure comprised neural decompression and posterolateral instrumented fusion. Pain and disability were assessed by a visual analog scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively. The Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney U-tests were used to compare indices. RESULTS: The most common sites for degenerative and isthmic spondylolisthesis were at the L4-L5 (88.5%) and L5-S1 (84.6%) levels, respectively. Surgery in both groups significantly improved VAS and ODI scores. The efficacy of surgery based on subjective satisfaction rate and pain and disability improvement was similar in the degenerative and isthmic groups. Notable complications were also comparable in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Neural decompression and posterolateral instrumented fusion significantly improved pain and disability in patients with degenerative and isthmic spondylolisthesis. The efficacy of surgery for overall subjective satisfaction rate and pain and disability improvement was similar in both groups.

Difference of Sagittal Spinopelvic Alignments between Degenerative Spondylolisthesis and Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the differences of spinopelvic parameters between degenerative spondylolisthesis (DSPL) and isthmic spondylolisthesis (ISPL) patients. METHODS: Thirty-four patients with DSPL and 19 patients with ISPL were included in this study. Spinopelvic parameters were evaluated on whole spine X-rays in a standing position. The following spinopelvic parameters were measured : pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope, pelvic tilt (PT), lumbar lordosis (LL), and sagittal vertical axis from C7 plumb line (SVA). The population of patients was compared with a control population of 30 normal and asymptomatic adults. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences in LL (p=0.004) and SVA (p=0.005) between the DSPL and ISPL group. The LL of DSPL (42+/-13degrees) was significantly lower than that of the control group (48+/-11degrees; p=0.029), but that of ISPL (55+/-6degrees) was significantly greater than a control group (p=0.004). The SVA of DSPL (55+/-49 mm) was greater than that of a control group (<40 mm), but that of ISPL (21+/-22 mm) was within 40 mm as that of a control group. The PT of DSPL (24+/-7degrees) and ISPL (21+/-7degrees) was significantly greater than that of a control group (11+/-6degrees; p=0.000). CONCLUSION: Both symptomatic DSPL and ISPL patients had a greater PI than that of the asymptomatic control group. In conclusion, DSPL populations are likely to have global sagittal imbalance (high SVA) compared with ISPL populations because of the difference of lumbar lordosis between two groups.

The influence on isthmic spondylolisthesis from lumbar vertebras facet joint orientation variation / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective To explore the influence on isthmic spondylolisthesis (IS) from lumbar vertebras facet joint orientation (FJO) variation. Methods The lumbar vertebras of 60 patients scanned by 16-slices spiral CT were collected, 30 cases with IS was defined as isthmic group;30 cases with normal lumbar vertebras was defined as control group, the FJO at L3-4, L4-5 and L5-S1 were measured in two groups. The difference between two groups were compared at three levels, the difference between both sides of the facet joint orientation also was compared;the measured data and the data of 60 patients from foreign literature were compared at three levels. Results The FJO in isthmic group were (47.9±6.3)° ,(37.5±7.3)° , (37.9±7.7)° at the right of L3-4, L4-5, L5-S1 levels respectively,the FJO in control group were (53.1 ± 7.3)° , (40.5±6.3)° , (38.5±7.3)° respectively, the FJO in isthmic group were (48.1±6.0)° , (37.9 ± 7.4)° , (37.6 ± 7.6)° at the left of L3-4, L4-5, L5-S1 levels respectively, the FJO in control group were (52.3 ± 7.6)° , (41.6 ± 6.0)° , (38.2 ± 7.2)° respectively. The significant difference was found at L3-4 and L4-5 levels (P < 0.05), the orientation was similar at L5-S1 level (P > 0.05). The difference between the both sides FJO of lumbar vertebras was not found at L3-4,L4-5 and L5-S1 levels (P >0.05). The same as the measured data and the corresponding data from foreign literature(P > 0.05 ). Conclusions It seems possible that the coronal FJO may be the phenotypic representation of the familial etiology of IS. It is helpful for the measurement of lumbar vertebras FJO to find IS early,it is important to reduce and release the IS.

Correlation of Pelvic Parameters with Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective radiological evaluation. PURPOSE: To verify that PI is related with progression of IS as well as development of IS and to assess the differences of pelvic parameters between the L4 & L5 IS, as well as between single & two level IS. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: High pelvic incidence (PI) has been known to be related with development of IS. However, the previous studies were limited to just L5 spondylolisthesis or there was no differentiation between L4 & L5 spondylolisthesis METHODS: Sixty five IS patients and 30 persons as a control group participated the study. Among the 65 patients, 30 had L4 IS, 30 had L5 IS and 5 had bi-level IS. We used the whole spine lateral radiographs to measure the slip percentage, the pelvic tilt (PT) and the pelvic incidence (PI), and we compared them between the normal control group and the IS patients, as well as between single-level and bi-level spondylolisthesis, and we investigated the correlation between the degree of slip of spondylolisthesis and the pelvic parameters. RESULTS: The averages of the PT, PI and lumbar lordosis (LL) in the control group and the IS group were 11.0degrees vs 21.4degrees (p0.05). On comparison between the single-level IS group and the bilevel IS group, there was a significant difference of the PT and PI (p<0.05), and the slip percentage had a correlation with only the PI among all the pelvic parameters (Spearman's r=0.293, p=0.023). There was a significant correlation of the degree of slip with the PI for the L5 single level IS, but not with the L4 single level IS (r=0.362, p=0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The high pelvic incidence can be a factor of L4 & L5 spondylolysis and it may have an influence on the slip progression in patients with L5 isthmic spondylolisthesis, but not on the slip progression in patients with L4 IS. Yet other factors seem to have an influence on the slip progression in patients with L4 isthmic spondylolisthesis.

Comparison between Instrumented Mini-TLIF and Instrumented Circumferential Fusion in Adult Low-Grade Lytic Spondylolisthesis : Can Mini-TLIF with PPF Replace Circumferential Fusion?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical and radiological results of two different fusion techniques in adult low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis. METHODS: Between November 2003 and December 2004, 46 consecutive patients underwent instrumented mini-transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (mini-TLIF) (group I) at Wooridul Spine Hospital, Seoul, Korea. Between February 2003 and October 2006, 32 consecutive patients underwent instrumented circumferential fusion (group II) at Leon Wiltse Memorial Hospital, Suwon, Korea. The mean follow-up periods were 29.7 and 26.1 months, respectively. RESULTS: Mean visual analog scale (VAS) scores for back and leg pain decreased, respectively, from 6.98 and 6.33 to 2.3 and 2.2 in group I and from 7.38 and 6.00 to 1.7 and 1.0 in group II. Mean Oswestry disability index (ODI) improved from 51.85% to 14.4% in group I and from 60% to 9.1% in group II. In both groups, VAS and ODI scores significantly changed from pre- to postoperatively (p<0.001), but postoperative outcome between groups was statistically not significant. Radiologic evidence of fusion was noted in 95.7% and 100% of the patients in group I and II, respectively. In both groups, changes in disc height, segmental lordosis, degree of listhesis, and whole lumbar lordosis between the pre- and postoperative periods were significant except whole lumbar lordosis in both groups. CONCLUSION: Clinical and functional outcomes demonstrate no significant differences between groups in treating back and leg pain of adult patients with low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis. However, in terms of operative data (i.e. operation time and hospital stay), instrumented mini-TLIF demonstrated better results.

More than 5 year-Follow-Up After Pedicle Screw Fixation and Fusion for Isthmic Spondylolisthesis / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to analyze the long term follow-up results of the isthmic spondylolisthesis patients who had been treated with pedicle screw fixation and fusion, and were followed up for more than 5 years. An attempt was made to determine the differences between posterior lumbar interbod fusion(PLIF) and posterolateral fusion (PLF). SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: The surgical treatment of isthmic spondylolisthesis has developed markedly after the introduction of spine fusion and pedicle screw fixation. However, the long-term prognosis after such treatments has not been investigated sufficiently. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Among 53 patients, 38(72%) patients were examined more than 5 years after surgery. The clinical results were evaluated according to Kim's criteria. Radiologically, the degree of slippage and disc height was measured. The changes in the adjacent segments were also observed. RESULTS: PLIF was performed in 26 patients and PLF was performed in 12 patients. In the PLIF group, the clinical results were 'excellent' in 15 patients, 'good' in 8, 'fair' in 2, and 'poor' in 1. In the PLF group, the results were 'excellent' in 8 patients, 'good' in 2, 'fair' in 1, and 'poor' in 1. According to the fusion method, a satisfactory outcome was obtained in 89% of patients in the PLIF group, and 83% in the PLF group, without any statistically significant differences. Radiological analysis was available in 28 (52.8%) patients. There were no statistically significant differences between the PLIF and PLF groups in terms of the reduction and maintenance of slippage and the disc height. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical result of isthmic spondylolisthesis patients who were treated with pedicle screws and fusion were satisfactory in 87% of patients. The clinical and radiological comparison of the fusion methods showed no significant differences between the PLIF and PLF groups.

A Morphometric Analysis of Neuroforamen in Grade I Isthmic Spondylolisthesis by Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion with Pedicle Screw Fixation

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphometric changes in neuroforamen in grade I isthmic spondylolisthesis by anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF). METHODS: Fourteen patients with grade I isthmic spondylolisthesis who underwent single level ALIF with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation were enrolled. All patients underwent standing lateral radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before surgery and at 1 week after surgery. For quantitative analysis, the foraminal height, foraminal width, epidural foraminal height, epidural foraminal width, and epidural foraminal area were evaluated at the mid-portion of 28 foramens using T2-weighted sagittal MRI. For qualitative analysis, degree of neural compression in mid-portion of 28 foramens was classified into 4 grades using T2-weighted sagittal MRI. Clinical outcomes were assessed using Visual Analogue Sale (VAS) scores for leg pain and Oswestry disability index before surgery and at 1 year after surgery. RESULTS: The affected levels were L4-5 in 10 cases and L5-S1 in 4. The mean foraminal height was increased (p<0.001), and the mean foraminal width was decreased (p=0.014) significantly after surgery. The mean epidural foraminal height (p<0.001), epidural foraminal width (p<0.001), and epidural foraminal area (p<0.001) showed a significant increase after surgery. The mean grade for neural compression was decreased significantly after surgery (p<0.001). VAS scores for leg pain (p=0.001) and Oswestry disability index (p=0.001) was decreased significantly at one year after surgery. CONCLUSION: Foraminal stenosis in grade I isthmic spondylolisthesis may effectively decompressed by ALIF with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation.

Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Using Wedged Cages for Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: A Short-Term Radiological Analysis

OBJECTIVE: The ability to induce segmental lordosis has been reported to be marginal with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion(TLIF). Therefore, we analyzed the short-term radiological outcomes of TLIF using 8 degrees wedged cages for isthmic sp-ondylolisthesis. METHODS: Twenty-seven patients with isthmic spondyloisthesis who underwent single level TLIF with pedicle screw fixation (PSF) using 8 degrees wedged cages were retrospectively evaluated. Changes in disc height, degree of anterolisthesis, segmental lumbar lordosis, whole lumbar lordosis and L1 axis S1 distance were evaluated using standing lateral radiographs before surgery, at 6 weeks follow-up and at the final follow-up. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 49.9 years (range, 38 to 64 years). The affected levels were L4-5 in 17 cases and L5-S1 in 10. There were 18 cases of Grade I isthmic spondylolisthesis and 9 cases of Grade II. At a mean follow-up duration of 9.9 months (range, 6 to 18 months), the disc height (p<0.001) was significantly increased, and the degree of anterolisthesis was significantly reduced (p<0.001). Regarding the sagittal balance, the segmental lumbar lordosis was significantly increased (p=0.01), but other parameters were not significantly changed after surgery. CONCLUSION: TLIF with PSF using 8 degrees wedged cages significantly increased the segmental lumbar lordosis.

Analysis of sagittal parameters in L_5～S_1 insthmic spondylolisthesis / 中国矫形外科杂志

[Objective]To investigate the correlation of sagittal parameters in L5~S1 isthmic spondylolisthesis and its clinical manifestation.[Method]Seventy-six patients with L5~S1 isthmic spondylolisthesis were treated between January 2000 and December 2005,there were 32 males and 44 females with the age between 12 and 68 years.The lateral standing radiographs of the spine and pelvis were analyzed retrospectively.Radiographic parameters measured including pelvic incidence(PI),sacral slope(SS),lumbar lordosis(LL),lumbosacral angle(LSA)and grade of spondylolisthesis.All measurements were done by the same individual and compared to those of a cohort of 30 normal subjects.Students test was used to compare the parameters between the curve types and Pearsons correlation coefficients were used to investigate the association between all parameters(P

Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion with Pedicle Screw Fixation for Elderly Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

OBJECTIVE: The surgical outcome of anterior lumbar interbody fusion(ALIF) with pedicle screw fixation for elderly isthmic spondylolisthesis was analyzed. METHODS: Consecutive nineteen elderly patients (aged 65 years or more) with isthmic spondylolisthesis (Grade I or II) who underwent single level ALIF with pedicle screw fixation in 2002 were analyzed. Using clinical chart and mailed questionnaires, preoperative and postoperative Visual Analogue Scale(VAS) of back and leg pain and postoperative Macnab criteria were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean age at the time of operation was 68.4 years (range 65 to 78 years). Twelve patients underwent ALIF with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation. Seven patients underwent ALIF followed by posterior decompression and pedicle screw fixation. The postoperative complication rate was 10.5% (wound dehiscence in 1 patient and incisional hernia in 1 patient). There was no postoperative major morbidity or mortality. At a mean follow-up duration of 30.7 months (range 25 to 35 months), 93.3% (14/15) of the patients showed excellent or good outcomes in terms of Macnab criteria. The mean VAS scores of back pain and leg pain significantly decreased after surgery. CONCLUSION: ALIF with pedicle screw fixation yielded favorable results for elderly isthmic spondylolisthesis in selected cases.

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis Associated with Foraminal Disc Herniation Treated by Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion

A 45-year-old man presented with lower back pain and pain in the right leg of 3years duration. A plain radiographic examination revealed grade I isthmic spondylolisthesis, with instability at L4-5. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated bilateral foraminal stenosis, with soft foraminal disc herniation on the right side at the L4-5 level. He underwent anterior lumbar interbody fusion(ALIF) with percutaneous posterior fixation(PF) at the L4-5 level. Without removing the posterior bony structures, removal of foraminal disc herniation and reduction of spondylolisthesis were successfully performed using ALIF with percutaneous PF. When there is no hard disc herniation or lateral recess stenosis, ALIF with percutaneous PF can be one of the treatment options for isthmic spondylolisthesis, even in the presence of foraminal disc herniation, as in our case.

Effect of Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Maintaining the Reduction in Isthmic Spondylolisthesis / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: This is a retrospective study on the effect of posterior lumbar interbody fusion for maintaining the reduction in isthmic spondylolisthesis patients. OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the efficacy of performing posterior lumbar interbody fusion for maintaining the reduction in isthmic spondylolisthesis. SUMMARY OF THE LITERATURE REVIEW: There have been many reports regarding the surgical treatment of spondylolisthesis. Although there are many reports that the clinical results have nothing to do with the reduction, many surgeons have tried to maintain the reduction. However, the question about what kind of fusion modality is the most effective for maintaining the reduction is still controversial. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Between August 2002 and January 2004, 24 patients with isthmic spondylolisthesis were operated on. 14 underwent posterolateral fusion alone (group A) and 10 underwent additional posterior interbody fusion (group B). These two groups were compared in terms of the clinical results, the radiological changes and fusion rates. RESULTS: the reduction rate were 11.81% and 7.32% in the PLF and PLF+PLIF groups, respectively (p>0.05). The reduction losses were 0.19% and 0.35% in the PLF and PLF+PLIF groups, respectively (p>0.05). The changes after fusion were 0.11% and 0.10% in the PLF and PLF+PLIF groups, respectively (p>0.05). There was no case of nonunion. The satisfaction rates were 86% and 83% in the PLF and PLF+PLIF groups, respectively (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In our study, the addition of posterior interbody fusion showed no benefit in maintaining correction. If solid fusion can be obtained, then posterolateral fusion seems to be sufficient enough to maintain correction in isthmic spondylolisthesis. The authors think that further studies are mandatory because of the small number subjects in our study.

Long Term Result of Pediculectomy in Symptomatic Isthmic Spondylolisthesis with Severe Osteoporosis

OBJECTIVE: Patients with symptomatic root compression in isthmic spondylolisthesis are commonly treated by bilateral wide posterior decompression and concomitant fusion with transpedicular instrumentation. But, in cases associated with severe osteoporosis or poor general conditions for surgery, high fusion failure rate or high operation risk is expected. The authors report the results of partial pediculectomy for root decompression without fusion procedure in 7 cases. Followed up period was over 3 years. METHODS: From December 1993 to May 1998, we performed operation in 87 patients with isthmic spondylolesthesis. Posterior lumbar interbody fusion was performed in 80 cases. Unilateral or bilateral removal of about 3mm length of infero-medial part of pedicle was performed in six cases who were associated with severe osteoporosis(T < -3.0 , BMD) and in 1 case with high risk cardiac disease. RESULTS: Radiating pain disappeared immediately after the surgery in all cases. There were no increasing instability after surgery. In long-term follow up, aggravation of symptoms were observed in 3 cases. In one of these 3 patients(high risk cardiac disease patient) bilateral wide decompression and bone fusion with transpedicular screwing was performed. CONCLUSION: In the surgical treatment of osteoporotic isthmic spondylolisthesis with foraminal stenosis in which transpedicular screwing and fusion is not indicated, partial pediculectomy without stabilization may be a effective method for relieving radicular pain, but in part of these patients symptoms may recur in long-term follow up.

Surgical Treatment of Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: Pedicle Screw Fixation, Posterolateral Fusion, and Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion with Cage after Wide Decompression / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: To verify the advantages of adding gentle reduction and posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), using a cage to the usual posterolateral fusion (PLF), with pedicle screw instrumentation, in the surgical treatment of spinal stenosis with isthmic spondylolisthesis. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: The stabilization of isthmic spondylolisthesis, following decompression, is difficult. The PLIF, with a cage, offers anterior column support, reduction and a broad fusion base. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 31 patients were treated with wide decompression, pedicle screws fixation, PLF and PLIF, and followed up for more than 1 year. The degrees of slippage were grades I and II in 20 and 11 patients, respectively. The grade I patients were treated with gentle reduction of the slippage in the disc space, using a leverage maneuver with a Cobb's spinal elevator. The grade II patients were treated with the insertion of a pedicle screws, fixation of rods, reduction and distraction, and then insertion of a cage. After the procedure all the patients were evaluated for the reduction of spondylolisthesis, restoration of the disc space, radiological bony union and clinical results. RESULTS: Ninety percent of the patients were rated as excellent or good. Fusion of the PLIF occurred in all patients. The average reduction in the spondylolisthesis was 42.6 and 47.8% in the grade I and II patients, respectively. The average restorations of the disc spaces were 46.9 and 100.2% in the grade I and II patients, respectively. The maintenance of the reduction and disc height were excellent in the final follow-up radiographs. CONCLUSIONS: Adding gentle reduction and PLIF, using a cage, to the usual posterolateral fusion, with pedicle screw instrumentation, in the surgical treatment of spinal stenosis, with isthmic spondylolisthesis, showed satisfactory results in the reduction of the spondylolisthesis, the restoration of the disc height, the bony union and clinically.

Posterior Fusion of Spondylolisthesis (Posterolateral Fusion and Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion) / 대한척추외과학회지

Spondylolithesis is defined as forward slipping of a vertebral body on distal vertebra, and this slipping causes a spectrum of symptoms from mild back pain to overt spinal stenosis. The various treatment modality for spondylolisthesis is introduced. In general, the slip of lesser than 50 per cent can be successfully treated with in situ fusion in children and early adolescent without neurologic deficit. Operative reduction of spondylolisthesis may be indicated in cauda equina syndrome, progressive slip surpassing 40 to 50 per cent, major deformity causing decompensation or distress, major pain or deficit plus two or more risk factor. Risk factors for in situ fusion include the following: slip angle greater than 25 degrees, trapezoidal L5, rounded sacral end plate, hyperlordosis exceeding 50 degrees L2-S1, L5 radiculopathy requiring decompression, female adolescents, excess lumbosacral mobility, sign of sacral root stretch. Stabilization after decompression of high grade isthmic spondylolisthesis is difficult due to insufficiency of fusion base, gap between the bases and incompetent anterior disc support. So posterior lumbar interbody fusion(PLIF) offered anterior support, reduction of the deformity and a broad fusion base may be applied. PLIF may be indicated in spinal stenosis with narrow euroforaminal space, isthmic spondylolisthesis with instability after removal of posterior structure of vertebra, grade 3,4 isthmic spondylolisthesis, failure of posterolateral fusion, symptomatic degenerative disc disease.