Comparison of instrumented posterolateral fusion versus percutaneous pedicle screw fixation combined with anterior lumbar interbody fusion in elderly patients with L5–S1 isthmic spondylolisthesis and foraminal stenosis

Abstract

A relatively longer time until, and lower rate for, fusion in the patients treated with ALIF and percutaneous PSF were noted, which may be correlated with a relatively lower rate of patients with excellent or good outcomes. These results seem to favor ALIF with instrumented PLF rather than ALIF with percutaneous PSF in the treatment of elderly patients with L5-S1 isthmic spondylolisthesis and foraminal stenosis. However, additional long-term follow-up, a larger number of patients, and well-designed studies are necessary for a more rigorous evaluation of the outcome of patients treated using these surgical techniques.