Journal of Spine

Recapping Laminoplasty for Adult Low-Grade Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

Abstract

Ahmed Saleh Shaker and Ahmed Hashem Amin

Study design: Prospective study.

Objectives of the study: To assess the results of recapping laminoplasty with posterior instrumentation and fusion in the management of adult low grade isthemic spondylolithesis.

Background: Isthmic spondylolisthesis is a condition where there is a translational displacement of the upper vertebral body compared to the lower one secondary to a defect in the pars interarticularis.

Methods: We treated10 patients, 3 men and 7 women with average age of 42.6 years using the technique of recapping laminoplasty and posterior transpedicular fixation and fusion. The mean vertebral slip was 33.5% (14-47%) preoperative, 6% (0-12%) direct postoperative and 7.4% (0-14%) after 1 year.

Results: At the latest follow up visit after 1 year 9 patients achieved fusion while 1 patient had non-union. The Oswestry disability index was mild in 8 patients and moderate in 2 patients.

Conclusion: Recapping laminoplasty can be used safely and effectively with anatomic reconstruction of the posterior structures for the management of adult low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis.

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