Study of Functional Outcome of Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Technique with Implant in Degenerative Spondylolisthesis at L4 and L5 Level

Abstract

Background: Lumbar interbody fusion is the most reliable fusion technique currently available for the lumbar spine as these constructs are biomechanically stronger, provide axial support with less graft subsidence or collapse comparing to those with posterolateral arthrodesis, and produce a better biologic fusion in lordotic alignment^{1, 2}. Aims and Objectives: To study functional outcome of posterior lumbar interbody fusion technique with implant in degenerative spondylolisthesis at L4 and L5 level. Materials and Methods: The study was carried on 34 patients enlisting in the casualty or inpatient department of orthopaedics at a medical college and tertiary health care centre. Only those patients satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study. All the patients were explained about the surgical procedure, the purpose of the study and Informed consent was taken. Results: As per Japanese Orthopaedic Association score, Normal results were observed in none of the cases while grade I, II and III was observed in 73.5%, 20.6% and 5.9% cases. Post-op results were observed as normal in 64.7% while Grade I, II and III was observed in 32.4% and 2.9% cases respectively (p<0.01). Conclusion: Present study concluded that although, long-term role of deformity correction and restoration of lumbar spinal balance in cases of spondylolisthesis is yet to be determined, the current study appears to indicate that satisfactory radiological correction of degenerative focal sagittal deformity can be achieved with the insert and-rotate PLIF technique. There appeared to be high levels of patient satisfaction in this relatively short-term study and low levels of complications. Longer-term and comparative clinical outcome studies are required.