J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2003 Oct;38(6):594-600.

Long-Term Follow-up of Posterior Pedicle Instrumentation and Anterior Lumbar Fusion using a bicortical Iliac Allograft

• Kim DJ
• Shin MC

Abstract

PURPOSE
To evaluate long-term results of an anterior lumbar fusion with posterior instrumentation using a bicortical iliac allograft. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-one patients underwent anterior lumbar fusion with posterior instrumentation using an iliac allograft. This study included 28 patients and 37 levels, and was followed for at least 5 years. Clinical and radiological results were evaluated. RESULTS: Bony fusion was obtained in 92% of the levels and excellent or good clinical results were achieved in 82% of the patients. Mean intervertebral disc space of 10.7 mm preoperatively was increased to 14.6 mm postoperatively and became 12 mm at final follow-up. Ascrew breakage was noted in one patient. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that bicortical iliac allograft is a satisfactory graft material and produces acceptable clinical and radiological results in anterior lumbar fusion with posterior instrumentation. However, with respect to fusion quality the allograft should be a substitute for autograft in selected case.

Keyword

Spine; Anterior lumbar fusion; Allograft; Bicortical iIiac graft; Pedicular instrumentation

MeSH Terms

Allografts*
Autografts
Follow-Up Studies*
Humans
Intervertebral Disc
Spine
Transplants