Excision of laminal pseudoarthroses in spondylolytic spondylolisthesis. A review of 13 cases

A conservative operation involving the excision of laminal pseudoarthroses in patients with spondylolytic spondylolisthesis who complained of referred leg pain is described. The spinous process and related ligaments of the affected lamina are preserved, allowing reattachment of the lumbodorsal fascia to the supraspinous ligaments after completion of the decompression procedures. The results obtained with the use of this method in 13 patients are described. The outcome in only one patient was unsatisfactory due to recurring bouts of back pain and lumbar spasm. No significant complications occurred in the series.