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Published on: May 20, 2019
Graf ligament stabilisation: mid- to long-term follow-up
M C Rigby1, G P Selmon, M A Foy
1Department of Orthopaedics, Princess Margret Hospital, Swindon, Wiltshire, England. rigbys.bg@virgin.net
Summary
Mid- to long-term results show the Graf ligament stabilisation system is less effective than previously thought. Forty-one percent of patients would not repeat the surgery, suggesting caution in its continued use.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Stabilization Techniques
Background:
- Early follow-up studies suggested positive outcomes for the Graf ligament stabilisation system.
- Mid- to long-term efficacy data for this spinal stabilization technique were previously lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the mid- to long-term outcomes of the Graf ligament stabilisation procedure.
- To compare pre-operative and post-operative patient-reported functional scores.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 51 patients who underwent Graf ligament insertion since 1993.
- Comparison of pre-operative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores with post-operative scores obtained via postal questionnaire.
- Analysis of complications and need for subsequent surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- The mean pre-operative ODI score was 46, improving to a mean post-operative score of 40 after a mean follow-up of 51 months.
- Twelve complications were recorded, with 4 requiring further surgery.
- Seven patients ultimately required bony fusion procedures.
- 41% of patients indicated they would not opt for the surgery again.
Conclusions:
- Mid- to long-term results for the Graf ligament stabilisation system are less encouraging than initial studies.
- The overall effectiveness and patient satisfaction appear to decrease over time.
- Continued use of this spinal stabilization technique warrants caution due to potential complications and limited long-term benefits.
