Evaluating the efficacy and suggesting technical optimizations for endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion across different lumbar spondylolisthesis types

Abstract

PurposeTo evaluate the efficacy of the endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion technique across different types of lumbar spondylolisthesis, specifically Grade I and Grade II, and suggest technical optimizations based on therapeutic outcomes, complications, and patient satisfaction for both grades. MethodsWe analyzed data from 57 L4 to 5 spondylolisthesis patients, all categorized as either Grade I or Grade II, comprising 31 males and 26 females. Of these, 36 were diagnosed with Grade I and 21 with Grade II. All subjects underwent the endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion procedure. Primary evaluation metrics included pre and post-operative Vasual Analogue Scale（VAS） pain scores, Osewewtry Disability Index（ODI） functional scores, surgical duration, intraoperative blood loss, degree of spondylolisthesis correction, complications, and patient satisfaction levels. ResultsAt a minimum of 6 months post-operation, the VAS score for the Grade I cohort reduced from an initial 7.30 ± 0.69 to 2.97 ± 0.47, while the Grade II cohort saw a decrease from 7.53 ± 0.56 to 3.37 ± 0.62 (P = 0.0194). The ODI score in the Grade I group declined from 66.88 ± 5.15 % pre-operation to 29.88 ± 6.36 % post-operation, and in the Grade II group, it decreased from 69.33 ± 5.27 % to 34.66 ± 6.01 % (P = 0.0092). The average surgical duration for the Grade I group stood at 155.72 ± 17.75 min, compared to 180.38 ± 14.72 min for the Grade II group (P < 0.001). The mean intraoperative blood loss for the Grade I group was 144.58 ± 28.61 ml, whereas the Grade II group registered 188.23 ± 9.41 ml (P < 0.001). Post-surgery, 83 % of the Grade I patients achieved a correction degree exceeding 80 %, and 61 % of the Grade II patients surpassed 50 % (P = 0.0055). Complication rates were recorded at 8 % for Grade I and 16 % for Grade II. Patient satisfaction reached 94 % in the Grade I cohort and 90 % in the Grade II cohort. ConclusionEndoscopic lumbar interbody fusion showcases promising therapeutic outcomes for both Grade I and Grade II lumbar spondylolisthesis. However, surgeries for Grade II spondylolisthesis tend to be lengthier, more challenging, involve greater blood loss, and have a heightened complication risk. Tailored technical adjustments and enhancements are essential for addressing the distinct spondylolisthesis types.