Long-term functional and radiographic follow-up of surgically treated isthmic spondylolisthesis.
We studied patients treated surgically for isthmic spondylolisthesis since 1968, with special emphasis on a detailed functional assessment. We followed up 22 patients for an average of 15 years, with a mean age at time of surgery of 18 years. All patients underwent a thorough physical examination and were evaluated with radiographs at baseline and at follow-up. The functional status of patients at the time of follow-up was assessed with 2 self-report pain and function instruments. All surgical procedures included spinal fusion, 12 of which included internal fixation by using Harrington distraction rods with sacral bars. At final follow-up, there was no statistically significant difference in mean slip percentage or mean slip angle compared with baseline radiographs. Functional evaluation was compared with a control group consisting of 52 patients. We conclude that the long-term radiographic and functional outcome is excellent for patients treated surgically for isthmic spondylolisthesis.
Bernicker
J P
JP
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.
Kohl
H W
HW
Sahni
I
I
Esses
S I
SI
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002648:Child; D004651:Employment; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009985:Orthopedics; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011859:Radiography; D013168:Spondylolisthesis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires