Interlaminar stabilization for spinal stenosis in the Medicare population.

Background Context: The number of complex fusions performed on Medicare beneficiaries, defined as ≥age 65, with lumbar spinal stenosis with or without spondylolisthesis has been increasing. Typically, these procedures are longer, more invasive and pose a greater risk for complications. Interlaminar stabilization (ILS) serves as an intermediary between decompression alone and decompression with fusion.

Single-center, consecutive series study of the use of a novel platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) and beta-tricalcium phosphate in posterolateral lumbar fusion.

Purpose: To evaluate the radiographic and clinical outcomes of the combination of platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) with beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and bone marrow aspirate (BMA) as a graft alternative in posterolateral lumbar fusion procedures.

Methods: Researchers evaluated 50 consecutive patients undergoing one-level to three-level posterolateral lumbar fusion procedures, resulting in a total of 66 operated levels. The primary outcome was evidence of radiographic fusion at 1-year follow-up, assessed by three independent evaluators using the Lenke scoring system.

Efficacy comparison of Accell Evo3 and Grafton demineralized bone matrix putties against autologous bone in a rat posterolateral spine fusion model.

Background Context: Spinal fusion procedures are intended to stabilize the spinal column for a multitude of disorders including abnormal curvature, traumatic instability, degenerative instability, and damage from infections or tumors. As an aid in the bone healing response, bone graft materials are used to bridge joints for arthrodesis and promote unions in pseudoarthrosis. Currently, the gold standard for stabilizing fusion masses in spinal procedures involves using the osteogenic, osteoinductive, and osteoconductive properties of autologous iliac crest corticocancellous bone.

Evaluation of a new formulation of demineralized bone matrix putty in a rabbit posterolateral spinal fusion model.

Background Context: Alternatives to autologous bone graft (ABG) with osteoconductive, osteoinductive, and osteogenic potential continue to prove elusive. Demineralized bone matrix (DBM) however, with its osteoconductive and osteoinductive potential remains a viable option to ABG in posterolateral spine fusion.

Purpose: To compare the efficacy of a new formulation of DBM putty with that of ABG in a rabbit posterolateral spinal fusion model.