Objective: To assess the indications, efficacy and safety of applying interspinous implants for degenerative lumbar diseases.
Methods: From September 2007 to September 2008, 68 cases with degenerative lumbar diseases were treated with interspinous implants. The clinical outcome was assessed by VAS of pain in back and lower extremities, lumbar JOA score and Prolo functional score; the radiological results including implant position, segmental lodosis and segment movement degree were assessed by lumbar X ray including dynamic post-operative versus pre-operative X ray.
Results: Sixty-four cases had a complete follow-up and the average time was 11.4 months. At the final follow up, lumbar VAS 1.7 +/- 1.5, lower extremity VAS 1.3 +/- 1.0, lumbar JOA score 23.5 +/- 3.1 and Prolo functional score 8.6 +/- 1.4. They were better than those at pre-operation (1.7 +/- 1.5, 1.3 +/- 1.0, 23.5 +/- 3.1, 8.6 +/- 1.4). Segment lodosis angle (15.4 +/- 4.2) degrees was less than (19.6 +/- 4.7) degrees at pre-operation; segment movement degree was (10.3 +/- 4.5) degrees . Two cases with lumbar disc herniation relapsed and received a second operation.
Conclusion: The application of interspinous implants for degenerative lumbar diseases is still in its infancy and the selection of indication is very important. Its efficacy and safety have been confirmed by a short follow-up.