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Experimental lumbar spondylolisthesis in growing rabbits
1Orton Research Institute, Invalid Foundation, Helsinki, Finland.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Experimentally induced spondylolisthesis in rabbits via facet joint resection created human-like spinal deformities. This model demonstrates that an upright posture is not essential for developing spondylolisthesis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Developmental Biology
- Biomechanical Engineering
Background:
- Lumbosacral spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition characterized by vertebral slippage.
- Previous research has focused on upright posture's role in spondylolisthesis development.
- Understanding the biomechanical factors is crucial for effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally induce lumbosacral spondylolisthesis in a growing rabbit model.
- To investigate the influence of facet joint resection, spinal immobilization, and disc severance on olisthesis development.
- To establish a reliable animal model for studying human-like spondylolisthesis.
Main Methods:
- Bilateral facet joint resection at the L7-S1 segment in growing rabbits.
- Experimental groups included additional L6-L7 segment immobilization or lumbosacral disc severance.
- Morphological and ventral slip measurements were analyzed post-procedure.
Main Results:
- Facet joint resection alone resulted in a mean ventral slip of 21%, mimicking human spondylolisthesis features.
- Combined facet resection and L6-L7 immobilization yielded a 15% slip with similar morphology.
- Combined facet resection and disc severance led to a 6% slip with significant sacral rounding.
Conclusions:
- Bilateral facet joint resection in growing rabbits effectively models human-like lumbosacral spondylolisthesis.
- An upright spinal posture is not a prerequisite for developing this condition.
- This experimental model offers a valuable platform for further research into olisthetic disc changes.