Accelerated degeneration of the segment adjacent to a lumbar fusion.
Previously reported biomechanical studies on the effects of various types of spinal fusion procedures upon the adjacent segment indicate a significant degree of increased stress at that segment. This study presents 18 patients in whom new symptoms developed from the segment adjacent to a fusion after an average symptom-free interval of 8.5 years (1-38 years). The most common pathologic condition at the adjacent segment was hypertrophic degenerative arthritis of the facet joints. Spinal stenosis was found there in eight cases; severe disc degeneration in five; degenerative spondylolisthesis in two; and spondylolysis acquisita in one.
Lee
C K
CK
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark.
D000328:Adult; D001168:Arthritis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D012086:Reoperation; D013122:Spinal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013997:Time Factors