Could alteration in the vacuum phenomenon rather than its presence be a sign of spinal instability?

The intradiscal vacuum phenomenon (VP) has traditionally been regarded as a radiologic indicator of segmental instability. However, its direct relationship with postoperative spinal fusion outcomes and mechanical complications remains inadequately understood. This study aimed to investigate whether changes in the natural course of intradiscal and intrafacet VP influence clinical and mechanical outcomes following lumbar fusion surgery.

This retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients who underwent lumbar fusion surgery for degenerative spinal disorders at a tertiary spine center. Lumbar computed tomography scans obtained preoperatively and at the final follow-up were reviewed for the presence or absence of intradiscal and intrafacet VP. Associations between VP dynamics and mechanical complications (e.g., adjacent segment disease and pseudoarthrosis) were analyzed alongside patient-reported functional outcomes.

The appearance of new intrafacet VP and the resolution of pre-existing intrafacet VP at follow-up were significantly associated with increased rates of mechanical failure and adjacent segment disease. Mechanical failures occurred in 73.3% of patients with new-onset intrafacet VP (odds ratio [OR] = 3.552), while adjacent segment disorders were observed in 53.3% of these cases (OR = 3.513). In contrast, intradiscal VP showed no significant correlation with mechanical complications. Patients with newly developed intrafacet VP also demonstrated significantly poorer outcomes in terms of achieving the minimal clinically important difference for the Oswestry Disability Index. Furthermore, the presence of interbody fusion, as opposed to posterolateral fusion alone, was more closely associated with VP alterations and functional outcomes. The resolution of intradiscal VP-presumably due to solid interbody fusion-was linked to improved quality of life, whereas similar changes in intrafacet VP were associated with poorer outcomes. These associations remained relevant when analyzed along with participants' comorbidities.

Postoperative changes in intrafacet VP, rather than its mere presence, may serve as a more accurate indicator of mechanical complications and functional decline following lumbar fusion. These findings challenge the conventional assumption that intradiscal VP is the primary radiologic marker of instability. The results suggest that interbody fusion may offer improved outcomes in this context, although further prospective studies are warranted. These insights may assist clinicians in preoperative planning and patient counseling regarding the risks and expected postoperative course following lumbar fusion surgery.