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Intradiscal vacuum phenomenon linked with greater restored disc height, segmental lordosis after LLIF
The presence of intradiscal vacuum phenomenon was associated with increased restoration of disc height and segmental lordosis in patients who underwent lateral lumbar interbody fusion between L1 and L-5 for degenerative lumbar disease, according to recently published results.
Using data from the University of South Florida’s Department of Neurosurgery, researchers performed a retrospective chart review of 140 patients with 247 disc levels treated with lateral lumbar interbody fusion during a 4-year period. Investigators reviewed plain radiographs and CT scans for the presence of the intradiscal vacuum phenomenon (IVP). Disc levels with IVP were compared to disc levels without IVP with regard to preoperative and postoperative posterior disc height (PDH), anterior disc height (ADH) and segmental lordosis (SL). Factors predictive of PDH, ADH and SL were evaluated with linear regression.
Results showed mean PDH went from 3.69 mm to 6.66 mm. Investigators also noted the ADH increased from 5.45 mm to 11.53 mm and the SL went from 9.59° to 14.55°. Investigators noted an increase in PDH correlated with IVP, the addition of pedicle screws and no cage subsidence. Results from univariate and multivariate regression analyses showed a significant increase in ADH was linked with IVP, anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) release and a lack of subsidence. In addition, a significant increase in SL correlated with IVP and ALL release. – by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosures: Yen reports no relevant financial disclosures. Please see the full study for a list of all other authors’ relevant financial disclosures.