Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research ›› 2011, Vol. 15 ›› Issue (35): 6540-6545.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.35.019

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Unilateral versus bilateral instrumented posterolateral lumbar fusion in degenerative spondylolisthesis: A randomized controlled trial

Chu Ge1, Kahaer•Aikenmu1, He Zu-sheng2   

  1. 1First Spinal Department, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi  830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
    2Department of Orthopedics, Xinjiang Tumor Hospital, Urumqi  830000, Xinjiang Autonomous Region, China
  • Received:2011-05-11 Revised:2011-06-13 Online:2011-08-27 Published:2011-08-27
  • Contact: Kahaer?Aikenmu, Master, Attending physician, Lecturer, First Spinal Department, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China xiaochu138@sina.com
  • About author:Chu Ge☆, Studying for doctorate, Attending physician, Lecturer, First Spinal Department, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China xiaochu138@sina.com

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Segment fusion supplemented by pedicle screw fixation for lumbar degenerative diseases can increase the fusion rate.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of unilateral pedicle instrumentation in clinical outcome and rate of union in comparison with the classic bilateral system.
METHODS: Eighty-two patients were randomized into two groups: Group 1 (n=42) had had bilateral instrumentation, and Group 2 (n=40) had only had unilateral instrumentation.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Statistically, there was no significant difference between the two groups in relation to demographics, blood loss, need of transfusion, hospital stay, complications, clinical results, rate of union, and effect on adjacent discs. The operating time needed for Group 2 was significantly shorter than that for Group 1 (P < 0.001). In Group 1, 3 of 186 screws violated the pedicle cortex requiring reoperation because root irritation versus no complication on a total of 90 screws in Group 2. Unilateral instrumentation used for the treatment of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis is as effective as bilateral instrumentation when performed in addition to 1- or 2-level posterolateral fusion. The cost of this method is lower, saves time, and reduces possible risk inserting screws in only one side.

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