HEALTH-AFFAIRS

Assessing transforaminal  lumbar interbody fusion (tlif) outcomes in patients with combined single-level lumbar listhesis and spinal stenosis 

1   Dr. Zia Ur Rehman, 2Dr. Haider Ali

1 Assistant Professor Department of Neurosurgery MTI/ Lady Reading Hospital – Peshawar

2 Registrar Neurosurgery LRH

Correspondence: Dr. Haider Ali Registrar Neurosurgery LRH

Abstract
Background: Lumbar listhesis, where one vertebra slips over another, often pairs with spinal stenosis. This combination causes significant pain and disability. Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) stabilizes the spine and eases nerve pressure. Yet, specific data on TLIF’s success in these combined conditions is limited.
Objective: This study aimed to assess TLIF outcomes in patients with both lumbar listhesis and stenosis.
Methods: This prospective study took place at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, from January 2022 to June 2024. We included 340 patients with single-level lumbar listhesis and stenosis. Patients had persistent symptoms despite conservative treatments for at least six months. Exclusions were multi-level lumbar issues, prior spinal surgeries, and major comorbidities. TLIF procedures were performed by experienced surgeons using standard techniques. Primary outcomes were pain and function, measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at baseline and six months post-op. Secondary outcomes were surgical complications and patient satisfaction. Data analysis used SPSS version 26.0, with means, SD, frequencies, and percentages. Paired t-tests and chi-square tests compared pre- and post-op data.
Results: The mean VAS score dropped from 7.8 ± 1.2 to 2.4 ± 1.1 (p < 0.001). The mean ODI score improved from 42.5 ± 9.3 to 14.7 ± 6.8 (p < 0.001). Complications occurred in 28 patients (8.2%), including dural tears (n=10), infections (n=8), and transient neurological issues (n=10). The mean hospital stay was 4.2 ± 1.5 days. High satisfaction was reported by 85% of patients.
Conclusion: TLIF significantly reduces pain and improves function in patients with combined lumbar listhesis and stenosis. The procedure has a favorable complication rate and high satisfaction, making it an effective treatment option.
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