Posterior lumbar interbody fusion using ceramic implants.
Background. The aim of our study was to assess the impact on surgical outcome of using ceramic implants in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF). Material and methods. We collected data from 51 consecutive patients operated using this method from 1998 to 2002. Only patients presenting with clinical signs from one level were qualified for this surgery. The level most often operated was L4-L5 (31 patients). Results. Outcomes were assessed according to both subjective criteria and the Oswestry Disability Scale (ODS). A good outcome (under 15 points on the ODS) was achieved in 22 patients (43.1%), a satisfactory outcome (15-25 points on the ODS) in 18 patients (35.4%), and a poor outcome (over 26 points on the ODS) in 11 patients (21.5%). Conclusions. Ceramic implants consist of biomaterial with good mechanical properties and enable shearing of high forces in the lower spine. The application of the ceramic implants reduces the operation time comparing with PLIF using the metallic implants. The ceramic implants are infiltrated by the bone tissue of the adjacent vertebrae and are the alternative for more expensive metallic implants.
Stanisław
Lukawski
L
Milewski
Marcin
M
Białecki
Jerzy
J
Antolak
Lukasz
L