To estimate the outcomes after posterior dynamic stabilization in situ with Dynesys (Zimmer Spine, Minneapolis, MN) for treatment of symptomatic spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis in long-term follow-up.

28 patients(mean age 73 years old) with symptomatic spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis underwent inter-laminar decompression and stabilization with Dynesys. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically after a follow-up from 6 months to 4 years.

Pain on VAS and walking distance improved significantly at less than 2 years and remained unchanged at 4 years follow-up. Radiographically, spondylolisthesis did not progress and the motion segments remained stable. 2 patients showed screw-loosening at 1 year follow-up and underwent revision. Overall, patient satisfaction remained high as 93% and would undergo the same procedure again.

In elderly patients with spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis, decompression and dynamic stabilization lead to excellent clinical and radiologic results. It maintains enough stability to prevent progression of spondylolisthesis. Because no bone grafting is necessary, donor site morbidity, which is one of the main drawbacks of fusion is eliminated