RESUMO
Evaluation of posterior lumbar interbody fusion with titanium cages, BAK system [Bagby - Kuslich, Spine Tech, Inc. Minneapolis, MN] for low grade spondylolisthesis [Grade I, II]. Interbody cages have been developed to replace tricortical interbody grafts in posterior lumbar interbody fusion [PLIF] procedures. The cages provide immediate postoperative stability and facilitate bony union with cancellous bone packed in the cage itself. Superior fusion rates and clinical outcomes have been obtained by using titanium cages. The authors evaulated 26 consecutive patients of whom surgery was performed in the Alexandria University Hospital. The neuroradiologic work-up consisted of plain x-ray lumbosacral spine, computerised tomography lumbosacral spine, and magnetic resonance imaging lumbosacral spine. Surgery was performed at the L4-5 level in 18 cases and at the L5-S1 level in 8 cases. The median follow-up was 15 months. Transpedicular screws and rods were added in 14 patients to enhance stabilisation. Satisfactory fusion was obtained at all levels during the one-year follow-up, with a fusion rate was 92.5%. Overall, 77% of the patients were satisfied with their clinical outcome. The function of interbody fusion cages is to stabilise the spina! segment primarily by distracting them as well as by allowing bone ingrowth and fusion. The procedure is safe and effective with a 92.5% fusion rate and a 77% overall patient satisfaction rate