Lower lumbar vertebra diseases, including degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and spinal stenosis, are common conditions that significantly impact the quality of life for many patients. These conditions often result in chronic pain, limited mobility, and neurological symptoms that can severely restrict daily activities. Surgical intervention becomes necessary when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. One promising surgical approach is the combination of percutaneous unilateral translaminar facet screw fixation and interbody fusion. This follow-up study explores the effectiveness and outcomes of this technique in treating lower lumbar vertebra diseases.

The study involved a cohort of patients who underwent the combined surgical procedure for various lower lumbar conditions. Percutaneous unilateral translaminar facet screw fixation, a minimally invasive technique, was utilized to stabilize the affected vertebrae by inserting screws through the facet joints. This method reduces the surgical trauma associated with traditional open fixation procedures, leading to shorter recovery times and reduced postoperative complications. Interbody fusion, performed simultaneously, involves the placement of an interbody cage filled with bone graft material between the affected vertebrae. This cage promotes bone growth and facilitates the fusion of the vertebrae, stabilizing the spine and alleviating pain.

Patients were followed for a period of 12 to 24 months postoperatively to assess the outcomes of the combined procedure. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using standard measures such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and radiographic imaging to confirm fusion success. The results were promising, with significant improvements observed in pain levels, functional outcomes, and spinal stability.
The follow-up study revealed that the combination of percutaneous unilateral translaminar facet screw fixation and interbody fusion is a viable and effective treatment option for lower lumbar vertebra diseases. Patients experienced substantial pain relief, improved mobility, and a higher quality of life following the surgery. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure contributed to reduced recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional surgical approaches.

In conclusion, the combination of percutaneous unilateral translaminar facet screw fixation and interbody fusion offers a promising surgical solution for patients suffering from lower lumbar vertebra diseases. This technique not only provides effective stabilization of the spine but also promotes successful fusion, leading to long-term relief from symptoms. Continued research and larger-scale studies will further validate the benefits of this approach and help refine surgical techniques for even better patient outcomes.