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Facet Joint Replacement: Intermediate- and Long-Term Outcome in a Large Case Series
Ulrich J Knappe1, David Reinecke1, Michael Flörke1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Johannes Wesling Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Minden, Germany.
Summary
Facet joint replacement (FJR) in selected patients demonstrated significant pain reduction and improved quality of life. This spinal surgery also preserved lumbar spine motion and adjacent levels, showing positive long-term outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Spine surgery
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanical engineering
Background:
- The long-term efficacy of facet joint replacement (FJR) remains incompletely understood.
- Evaluating FJR's impact on pain, function, and spinal biomechanics is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term outcomes of facet joint replacement (FJR) in patients with lumbar spinal conditions.
- To evaluate the effects of FJR on pain, disability, quality of life, and spinal biomechanics.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case series included 26 patients undergoing FJR, with follow-up extending to 112 months.
- Pain (VAS), disability (ODI), and quality of life (SF-12) were assessed pre- and postoperatively.
- Radiographic analysis evaluated range of motion (ROM) and disk height at treated and adjacent levels.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in back and leg pain (VAS) and disability (ODI) were observed (p < 0.01).
- 87% of patients reported satisfaction, and 78.3% regained pre-treatment activity levels.
- Lumbar spine motion and disk height were preserved, with no implant loosening; 15.4% required revision surgery.
Conclusions:
- Facet joint replacement (FJR) in selected cases yields favorable long-term outcomes.
- FJR effectively reduces pain and enhances quality of life.
- The procedure preserves spinal mobility and protects adjacent spinal segments.
