Functional outcome analysis: instrumented posterior lumbar interbody fusion for degenerative lumbar scoliosis

Purpose Although instrumented posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) has been becoming a popular and effective method for treating degenerative lumbar scoliosis, the clinical outcome is rarely reported. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis after instrumented PLIF. Materials and methods A total of 58 patient’s clinical characteristics had been reviewed retrospectively including clinical presentations, preoperative medical comorbidities, intraoperative status, and postoperative status. Oswestry disability index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS), and patient satisfaction were evaluated before surgery and last follow-up period. The relationship between the difference of radiographic parameter and functional outcome was evaluated. Results Functional outcomes including ODI scores and VAS were significantly improved at the last visit. The ODI was 28.1 ± 8.0 before surgery and 12.2 ± 8.8 at the last visit. VAS was 7.4 ± 2.0 before surgery and 2.4 ± 2.0 at the last visit. Patient satisfaction was 72% at the last visit. ODI was significantly related to postoperative radiographic parameters including Cobb’s angle ( p