DOI: 10.21276/sjams.2016.4.12.070

Pages: 4558-4565

Background: Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) is a common surgical procedure aimed at relieving pain and improving function in patients with degenerative lumbar spine conditions. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of PLIF surgery, including pain relief, functional recovery, complication rates, and return-to-work outcomes. Methods: A prospective observational of 50 patients who underwent PLIF surgery for lumbar degenerative disorders was prospectively followed over a 12-month period. Preoperative and postoperative pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), while functional recovery was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Complications, return-to-work rates, and patient satisfaction were also evaluated. Results: Significant improvements were observed in pain relief and functional outcomes, with VAS scores decreasing by 71% and ODI scores improving by 69% at 12 months postoperatively. The incidence of complications was low, with minor issues such as transient radicular pain (12%) and superficial wound infections (6%) reported. Return-to-work rates were high, with 98% of patients resuming full activities by 12 months. Patient satisfaction was also notably high, with most patients reporting satisfaction scores of 4 or 5 on a Likert scale. Conclusion: PLIF surgery provides significant long-term improvements in pain, function, and quality of life, with a low complication rate and high patient satisfaction. These findings support the continued use of PLIF as an effective treatment for lumbar degenerative disorders.