Abstract: Background: The treatment of spondylolisthesis consists of conservative methods or surgical management. Radicular pain in spondylolisthesis, does not responds to conservative treatment needs surgical procedure. Various surgical procedure are there for spondylolisthesis.
Aim: In this study we evaluate the functional outcome of transformational lumbar interbody fusion in spondylolisthesis.
Material and Methods: 32 patients (4 males, 28 females) admitted in Department of Orthopaedics, Madurai Medical College and Government Rajaji Hospital with Spondylolisthesis from May 2011 to November 2013. All patients were treated with posterior decompression, stabilisation with pedicle screw system and Transforaminal Lumbar interbody fusion. Patients were followed up and assessed for functional outcome with oswestry Disability index (ODI Score) and visual analoq scale for back and radicular pain.
Results: 32 patients (4 Males, 28 Females) with Spondylolisthesis were treated with posterior decompression, stabilisation with pedicle screw system and Transforaminal Lumbar interbody fusion. The mean preoperative Visual analog score for Back pain was 10 which improved to 2(1-4),the mean preoperative Visual analog score for Leg pain was 8 which improved to 1(1-5), the mean preoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) Score was 63.6% (range from 56%-74%)which improved to 20% at final follow up implying better score postoperatively. The neurological status improved in 81% of patients. The radicular pain is relieved in all patients (100%) final post operative follow up. The sensory improvement is seen in 10 out of 12 patients and in two patient no improvement is present. The four patients with pre-operative motor deficits, that patients had grade 1 increase in power.
Conclusion: The Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion is a safe, simpler and less morbid approach with low complication rate. It provides better functional outcome by providing pain relief and improving the quality of life in the patients. TLIF restores the normal saggital balance of spine and maintains the disc space height.
