Pedicle Screw and Rod Fixation with TLIF in a Series of 14 Patients with Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation

Abstract

Background: Lower back and leg pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability. Degenerative lumbar spine conditions pose significant  treatment challenges. Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) with pedicle screw and rod fixation has emerged as a promising  surgical technique for recurrent lumbar disc herniation.

Objective: To determine the therapeutic efficacy and clinical outcomes  associated with TLIF utilizing pedicle screw and rod fixation in patients presenting with recurrent lumbar disc herniation.

Patients and  Methods: A retrospective cohort study was undertaken, encompassing a sample of 14 patients presenting with recurrent lumbar disc  herniations, all of whom underwent a singular level of lumbar surgical intervention during the period from 2022 to 2023. Imaging  assessments encompassed lumbar radiography, CT scans, and MRI for the comprehensive evaluation of the cases. For comparative  analysis, a retrospective evaluation was conducted on 19 patients who underwent single-level lumbar fusion for analogous indications  within the same period.

Results: All patients experienced significant improvements in mobility and life quality. The TLIF group exhibited superior clinical outcomes compared to the control group, with reduced perioperative blood loss and accelerated rehabilitation. The  mean VAS declined from 6.8 ± 1.2 (range 6.0– 8.5) to 3.1 ±1.2 (range 2.6–6.5) (p < 0.001). In the control group, the mean VAS decreased  from 7.2 ±1.2 (range 5.5–9) to 3.5 ±1.1 (range 3–6.8).

Conclusion: TLIF alongside PS and RF demonstrates a reliable and effective method  for treating patients with recurrent lumbar disc herniation.