Degenerative spondylolisthesis

Summary

It is not clear whether instrumentation or non-instrumented lumbar fusion is better for treating degenerative spondylolisthesis based on evidence from four randomized controlled trials. Fusion rates appear to be higher in patients treated with instrumentation, but complications and reoperation rates also tended to be higher in this group. Statistical significance was not consistent across studies, and results did not clearly favor one treatment over the other. To better understand the benefits of instrumented lumbar fusion versus noninstrumented fusion in degenerative spondylolisthesis, larger methodologically rigorous trials are needed.

References:

• 1 Chapman J R, Hanson B P, Dettori J R. et al .Spine Outcomes Measures and Instruments. 1st ed. Stuttgart New York: Thieme 2007: 81-89, 249