Biomechanics of lumbar instability

Abstract

Several authors have tried to define segmental lumbar instability. Their definitions: increased antero-posterior translation, pathologic coupled motion, increased neutral zone, pathologic instantaneous center of rotation describe some mechanic findings occurring in the aging spine. However, there is no evidence that they help to differentiate the pathologic entity of segmental lumbar instability from the normal aging process. Dynamic explanation models are promising but at the moment they cannot be used clinically for diagnosis of instability as well. The most important structure to maintain lumbar stability is the intervertebral disc. In the third and fourth decade, more than 50 percent of specimen show peripheral tears of the anulus. It was shown in animal experiments that these tears develop to radial tears, which are accompanied by nuclear volume loss and decreased height. The facets degenerate one or two decades later. Corresponding with the loss of discal function, they increasingly contribute to spinal stability. In conclusion, the concept of lumbar segmental instability is not very helpful in clinical practise. It is recommended to base the decision of lumbar fusion on a painful degenerated disc, and additional findings promising a good result.