Three Interbody Fusion In The Treatment Of Spondylolisthesis Disease

Objective:To compare the therapeutic effect of posterolaterol fusion(PLF), posterior lumbar interbody fusion(PLIF) and posterior circumferential fusion(PCF) for lumbar spondylolisthesis.Methods:From January 2003 to December 2008,232 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis treated with pedicle screw fixation and followed for reviewed retrospectively. All patients were divided into group A(PLF,66 case), group B (PLIF,54 case)and group C(PCF,112 case) based on fusion method. The three group were reviewed and compared for clinical outcome and fusion rate.Result:The mean follow-up period was 21 months (range 6-60 months). The fusion rate was 80.1% for PLF,92.5% for PLIF and 93.7% for PCF(P> 0.05).As to isthmic spondylolisthesis or Meyerding grade degenerative II and III spondylolithesis, the fusion rate was 60.7% for PLF,90% for PLIF and 93.3% for PCF(P<0.05). Compare the fusion rate for PLF and the other two groups(PLIF and PCF, P<0.05),fusion rate for PLIF and PCF(P> 0.05).Conclusion:The outcome of all the three fusion methods was similar. PLF is still a good bone graft method for Meyerding grade I degenerative spondylolithesis. Posterior lumbar interbody fusion(PLIF) and posterior circumferential fusion(PCF) are better ways to treat isthmic spondylolisthesis or Meyerding grade degenerative spondylolithesis.