COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF RADIOLOGICAL AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES FOLLOWING TRANSFORAMINAL LUMBAR INTERBODY FUSION IN LUMBAR CANAL STENOSIS PATIENTS

Objective: The lumbar spine, a crucial component of the musculoskeletal system, is integral for structural support and mobility. Lumbar canal stenosis (LCS), characterized by spinal canal narrowing, is a growing concern associated with degenerative changes. Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) has emerged as a surgical intervention for LCS, aiming to achieve decompression and stabilization. This study comprehensively assesses the radiological and functional outcomes post-TLIF in LCS patients. Methods: A cohort of 40 LCS patients undergoing TLIF at Indira Gandhi Medical College was studied. Fifteen were retrospectively assessed operated on before May 2016, and 25 were prospective, operated between May 2016 and May 2017. Demographic data, preoperative ASIA scores, ligamentum flavum hypertrophy, facet joint arthropathy, and Bridwell Fusion Grades were analyzed. Statistical tests included mean calculations, chi-square tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: The study revealed a significant male predominance (57.5%) and age distribution (32 to 72 y) with a male-to-female ratio of 1.35:1 (p value 0.0049). Preoperative ASIA scores showed 50% ASIA grade D and 25% grade E. Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy and facet joint arthropathy were present in 70% and 67.5% of patients, respectively. Bridwell Fusion Grade indicated 80% achieved grade 1 fusion. Conclusion: This study contributes valuable insights into TLIF outcomes in LCS patients, emphasizing the significance of age, gender, neurological status, and associated pathologies. Favorable fusion outcomes suggest TLIF effectively stabilizes the lumbar spine. Future research with larger cohorts could further validate these findings and refine TLIF's role in LCS management.