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Posterior lumbar interbody fusion may be better treatment option for isthmic spondylolisthesis
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Sagittal spinopelvic parameters of patients with spondylolisthesis change significantly after surgical treatment, so posterior lumbar interbody fusion may increase lumbar lordosis and form a more reasonable sagittal balance, according to the results of a recently published study.
Researchers conducted a controlled prospective study of 99 patients with low-grade L5-S1 isthmic spondylolisthesis. Patients chose either posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) or posterolateral fusion (PLF).
Thirty-six patients underwent the PLF operation and 63 patients chose the PLIF procedure. The two surgical groups were compared with a 60-patient control group and researchers analyzed all patient preoperative and postoperative spinopelvic and deformity parameters.
According to the researchers, there were no statistically significant differences in pelvic tilt (PT) among the PLIF, PLF, and control groups after the operation (P >.05). Lumbar lordosis decreased in patients undergoing PLF and increased in PLIF patients.
Researchers concluded the decrease of pelvic tilt may be an important factor for short-term surgical outcomes, and PLIF may be a better option when compared to PLF for patients with isthmic spondylolisthesis. – by Robert Linnehan
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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