Abstract
Objective: This is a prospective study by an independent observer in which outcomes of 118 anterior lumbar interbody fusions (ALIF), done for discogram-concordant axial low back pain, were evaluated. Aims of the study were to assess overall functional and comprehensive outcomes, predictors of outcome, and whether ALIF alone can be recommended for low back pain.
Design: The functional and patient perception assessment was based on a self-evaluation back pain questionnaire, which consisted of Oswestry Disability Index, Pain Chart, Numerical Rating Scales (NRS) for back pain and leg pain and SF-36-Version II. The comprehensive outcomes were categorised as satisfactory (excellent, good or improved) and unsatisfactory (fair, poor, unimproved or worse).
Results: Overall, we had 61% satisfactory outcomes. Average percentage change in ODI, NRS and SF-36 PCS scores was statistically quite significant. However, patients who had previous posterolateral fusion at the same level had satisfactory outcome in 81%. Incidence of non-union was higher in two-level fusions than one-level fusions, and cases that developed non-unions had unsatisfactory outcome.
Conclusions: ALIF alone can be recommended for discogram-concordant axial low back pain. Radiographic evidence of spondylosis, lysis or listhesis, level of fusion, number of levels fused, floating/non-floating type of fusion, and previous back surgery did not affect the outcome. Cases in which the middle column was stabilised (such as those with (a) intervertebral cages extending up to the posterior longitudinal ligament and (b) previous posterolateral fusion at the same level), and hence biomechanically stable, showed better outcomes. Placement of intervertebral implants mainly in the anterior column lead to distraction of the disc anteriorly, resulting in compression of back wall of the disc and facet joints, and narrowing of intervertebral foramina and spinal canal at that level, thus compromising the outcome.
Abstracts prepared by Mr. A. J. Stirling, FRCS, and Miss A. Weaver. Correspondence should be addressed to Miss A. Weaver at the Research and Teaching Centre, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Northfield, Birmingham, B31 2AP, UK
BritSpine 2002, the second combined meeting of the British Association of Spinal Surgeons, the British Cervical Spine Society, The British Scoliosis Society and the Society for Back Pain Research, took place at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham UK between 27th February and 1st March 2002. The following presentations and posters were given and displayed.
