Radiographic and clinical results of posterior dynamic stabilization for the treatment of multisegment degenerative disc disease with a minimum follow-up of 3 years

This study aims to compare radiographic and clinical outcomes of Dynesys and posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) for the treatment of multisegment disease. Thirty-five consecutive patients who received Dynesys implantation at three levels from L1 to S1 from November 2006 to July 2007 were studied. A retrospective analysis of the medical records of 25 patients with the same indications who received 3-level PLIF (L1-S1) was also conducted. Radiographic and clinical outcomes between the groups were compared. All patients included in the analysis completed 3-year follow-up. Dynesys stabilization resulted in higher preservation of motion at the operative levels, as well as total range of motion from L1 to S1. A decrease of anterior disc height was seen in the Dynesys group and an increase was seen in the PLIF group. An increase in posterior disc height was noted in both groups; however, was greater in the PLIF group at 3 years. The Dynesys group showed a greater improvement in Oswestry Disability Index and visual analogue scale back pain scores at 3 years postoperatively. There were no differences in complications between the two groups. In conclusion, Dynesys is an acceptable alternative to PLIF for the treatment of multisegment lumbar disease.