Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Studies addressing MRI data and treated segment selection during the treatment of senile lumbar degenerative diseases are rare.
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical significance of the MRI in the selection of fixed and fused segments for treatment of degenerative low lumbar spinal diseases in the elderly.
METHODS: The clinical data of 152 patients with lumbar degenerative diseases were divided into two groups: operation group and control group. They were followed up for 3, 6, 12, 24 months post treatment. Clinical function of pre and post-treatment of all the cases were determined by using Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score. The JOA score between the operation group and control group was compared. And using discriminate analysis, we studied the change of MRI, tried to find out the clinical significance of MRI in the selection of treated segment during the treatment of degenerative low lumbar spinal diseases.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: JOA score was significantly improved post operation in the operation group (P < 0.05). Compared to the control group, JOA score was significantly higher in the operation group (P < 0.05). Discriminant Functions were established depending on the analysis of clinical and imaging information by using statistical software, and proved whose have statistical significance.　Discriminant functions were effective to distinguish degenerative low lumbar spinal diseases and institute individualization operation project and choice possible treated segment and gain all-right clinical outcome.