Comparison between Decompression Alone and with Additional Fusion for Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Introduction: Degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis affects approximately 10% of adults over 40. Although decompression has been the treatment of choice, some surgeons note possible instability development after decompression alone (D). Previous studies show that decompression with fusion (DF) has similar complication rates but is better at preventing slip progression and reducing pain.