Thoracolumbar Deformity Arthrodesis to L5 in Adults: The Fate of the L5-S1 Disc

Abstract

Subsequent L5-S1 DDD developed in 61% of patients after long adult fusions to L5 and was associated with a significant loss of sagittal alignment and an increased likelihood for or definite need for another operation. Loss of L5 implant fixation is not uncommon, especially in patients with a deep-seated L5 vertebra.