Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) versus posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) in the treatment of single-level lumbar spondylolisthesis

Abstract

BackgroundVarious surgical procedures have been recommended for the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis, but controversy still exists regarding the optimal surgical technique. In this study, we compared the clinical and radiologic outcomes of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) with pedicle screw fixation in the treatment of single-level lumbar spondylolisthesis.MethodsNinety-four patients underwent lumbar interbody fusion with pedicle screw fixation for the treatment of adult lumbar spondylolisthesis. Forty-six had PLIF with two cages and pedicle fixation (group 1), and 48 had TLIF with one cage and pedicle fixation (group 2). The follow-up was performed clinically using the visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) Questionnaires. Outcome scores were assessed 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Radiographs were obtained postoperatively and at regular intervals for 6 months. Perioperative outcomes such as surgery time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, and incidence of surgical complications were also recorded.ResultsEstimated blood loss and operative time in the TLIF group were significantly lower than those in the PLIF group. VAS for back pain and ODI were significantly better in the TLIF group than the PLIF group. However, at the time of the last follow-up, both groups had similar slip reduction and spinal fusion rates. More complication rate was encountered in the PLIF group compared to the TLIF group.ConclusionsOur study showed that TLIF is superior to PLIF with respect to functional outcome and complication rate in grade I/II single-level lumbar spondylolisthesis.