Comparative Study Of Two Different Interbody Fusion Cage Combined With Posterior Pedicle Screw System In Treating Lumbar Spondylolisthesis

Objective To compare the clinical outcomes of two different interbody fusion cage combined with posterior pedicle screw system in treating lumbar spondylolisthesis.Methods This retrospective study analyzed the outcome of 43 patients with single level spondylolisthesis from February 2004 to March 2008. All the patients were divide random tow groups: anterior lumbar fusion cage combined with posterior pedicle screw system (group 1) was performed in 17 patients , and posterior lumbar interbody fusion cage combined with posterior pedicle screw system (group 2) was performed in 26 patients.The two groups were compared for operation duration,amount of bleeding during operation,the therapeutic effect (JOA score),radiographic date and complication rate.Results The operation duration and bleeding amount of group 2 were less than those of group 1 (P<0.05 for both). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the therapeutic effect (JOA score) and radiographic date (P>0.05).There was no leakage of cerebrospinal fluid,great blood vessel injury,nerve injury, retrogression ejaculation and impotency in group 1.There was 5 got leakage of cerebrospinal fluid and 7 got nerve root traction injury in group 2.Conclusions Both the operations are effective for lumbar spondylolisthesis.Comparing with posterior approach the disadvantages of anterior approach are more complicated and more tissue trauma.And posterior approach has more risk of spinal dura mater and nerve injury than anterior approach.The technique used should conform to the type and extent of spondylolisthesis and the experience of operators.