Clinical characteristic and surgical treatment of traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis: A series of 28 patients.

Objective: To explore the clinical characteristics and the short-term efficacy of posterior operation for traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis.

Methods: All 28 patients (between January 2013 and June 2018) were treated with lumbar pedicle screw fixation combined with posterior intervertebral fusion. The clinical data and imaging materials of these patients were retrospectively analyzed.

Results: The mean follow-up period was 24.3 months (12-36 months). The average VAS score and JOA score were significantly improved after surgery, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).The last follow-up X-ray showed that 16 cases were degree 0 and 12 cases were degree I according to Meyerding grading, which were statistically improved compared with preoperative. Postoperative CT indicated lumbar internal fixation well, and the lumbar fusion rate was 100%. The Frankel grading of neurological function was significantly improved compared with preoperative.

Conclusion: Acute traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis is caused by severe trauma and mostly occurred at L4/L5 and L5/S1 level. Early posterior reduction, decompression and intervertebral fusion can achieve satisfactory clinical and radiological outcome.