[Treatment of degenerative lumbar scoliosis via posterior decompression and fusion with internal fixation].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the pathogenic mechanism, operative techniques and therapeutic efficacy of lumbar degenerative scoliosis.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed for 32 patients (14 males and 18 females with a mean age of 67.4 years old) with degenerative lumbar scoliosis undergoing posterior decompression and fusion with pedicle screw system from January 2007 to March 2010. The post-operative outcomes were radiologically evaluated with Oswestry disability index (ODI), Cobb' angle and lumbar lordosis angle.

RESULTS

All patients received a mean follow-up of 28.5 months (range: 12 - 50). All lumbar joints achieved bony fusion at Month 6 post-operation. No complications occurred due to instrumentation. There was no pseudoarthrosis. The significant differences of ODI existed between pre-operation and post-operation [(60 ± 11)% vs (21 ± 6)%, P < 0.01], Cobb' angle [(28 ± 9)° vs (13 ± 5)°, P < 0.01] and lumbar lordosis angle [(41 ± 12)° vs (20 ± 10)°, P < 0.01].

CONCLUSION

Individualized operations should be performed for degenerative lumbar scoliosis patients. Proper lumbar decompression and the reconstruction of coronal and sagittal balances may relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life.