Background
The primary goal of intervertebral body fusion is not only correcting segmental deformity and restoring stability to the spine segment, but to provide an environment for successful fusion with a low rate of morbidity or complication. Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) has been the standard procedure for the treatment of lumbar instability. PLIF with cage filled with iliac bone graft and transpedicular fixation add more concern regarding fusion rates, preservation of disk space height, and the clinical outcome.
Aim
The aim of this study was to assess the results of PLIF with disk cages in the treatment of lumbar instability clinically and radiologically.
Patients and methods
Fifteen patients suffering from lumbar instability were operated upon according to this technique. They were 10 female and five male patients. Clinical and radiological assessment of patients as per the Japanese scoring system was performed preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Polyetheretherketone cages filled with iliac bone graft were used. The levels operated upon were L4–L5 in 10 patients, L3–L4 in three patients, and L5–S1 in two patients.
Results
Marked clinical improvement in back and leg pain was noticed. Postoperative assessment by the Japanese scoring system was as follows: 22 points (73%) in eight patients, 20 points (65%) in four patients, 18 points (58%) in two patients, and 14 points (46%) in one patient. Fusion occurred in all patients.
Conclusion
PLIF with cage and transpedicular fixation result in a high fusion rate and preservation of disk space height and good clinical outcome.