Fusion Is the Optimal Treatment of Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: The Modified Minimally Invasive Interbody Selection...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Surgery

Background:

• Lumbar spondylolisthesis is a common cause of low back pain.
• Degenerative and isthmic subtypes typically affect L4-5 and L5-S1 levels.
• Surgical options include decompression alone or with fusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence supporting surgical treatments for lumbar spondylolisthesis.
• To compare decompression alone versus decompression with fusion.
• To highlight preferred fusion techniques in North American populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of evidence from studies like SpineCORe and the SLIP trial.
• Analysis of outcomes for decompression versus fusion.
• Categorization of available fusion techniques.

Main Results:

• Growing evidence supports fusion as the preferred surgical option for lumbar spondylolisthesis in North America.
• Decompression with fusion shows favorable outcomes compared to decompression alone.
• Posterolateral fusion and minimally invasive interbody fusions are established techniques.

Conclusions:

• Surgical fusion is recommended for symptomatic lumbar spondylolisthesis in North American populations.
• Various fusion techniques, including minimally invasive options, are available.
• Further research may refine treatment selection based on specific subtypes and patient factors.