Transfacetal fusion for low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis of the lumbar spine: results of a prospective single center study.

STUDY

DESIGN

Prospective, nonrandomised, single center.

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinico-radiologic and functional outcome after transfacetal screw fixation and fusion for low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis of the lumbar spine.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Surgery for degenerative spondylolisthesis conventionally involves instrumented fusion using 3 column pedicle screw fixation systems. Recently transfacetal fusion techniques have been reported to produce good results without the surgical morbidity associated with posterolateral fusion and the neurologic complications associated with pedicle screw fixation.

METHODS

30 patients with low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis of the lumbar and lumbosacral spine underwent transfacetal fusion using 2 cortical screws and local cancellous bone grafts.

RESULTS

Clinical and radiologic evidence of fusion was obtained in 29 patients. One patient developed pseudoarthrosis with progression of slip and was reoperated. Quadruple visual analog scores and Oswestry disability assessment showed a significant improvement at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Degenerative spondylolisthesis with lower grade slips and normal anterior structures represent an ideal indication for transfacetal fusion. This is a simple and useful technique for short segment fusions of the lumbar spine.