Two-level Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion at the Lumbosacral Segment has a High Risk of Pseudarthrosis and Poor Clinical Outcomes: Comparison Between the Lumbar and Lumbosacral Segments

Study Design: This was a retrospective study. Objectives: The purposes of this study were to investigate the fusion rate and clinical outcomes of 2-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). Summary of Background Data: PLIF provides favorable clinical outcomes and a high fusion rate. However, most extant studies have been limited to the results of single-level PLIF. Clinical outcomes and fusion rate of 2-level PLIF are unknown. Materials and Methods: In total, 73 patients who underwent 2-level PLIF below L3 between 2008 and 2016 (follow-up period>2 y) were included. Patients were divided into the 2 groups on the basis of surgical level. The lumbar group included 48 patients who underwent L3/4/5 PLIF, and the lumbosacral group included 25 patients who underwent L4/5/S PLIF. Fusion rate and clinical outcomes were compared. The Japanese Orthopedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ) and a visual analog scale were used for evaluation. Results: Fusion rate was significantly lower in the lumbosacral group (lumbar 96% vs. lumbosacral 64%; P
Source: Journal of Spinal Disorders and Techniques - Category: Surgery Tags: PRIMARY RESEARCH Source Type: research