Lumbar Interbody Fusions for Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: Review of Techniques, Indications, and Outcomes

STUDY DESIGN: Broad narrative review. OBJECTIVES: To review and summarize the current literature on the outcomes, techniques, and indications of lumbar interbody fusion in degenerative spondylolisthesis. METHODS: A thorough review of peer-reviewed literature was performed on the outcomes, techniques, and indications of lumbar interbody fusions in degenerative spondylolisthesis. RESULTS: A number of studies have found similar results between interbody fusions and posterolateral fusion in the setting of degenerative spondylolisthesis. There is some evidence that suggests that interbody fusion may be a useful adjunct in the setting of unstable degenerative spondylolisthesis. The number of options for interbody fusions has quickly expanded. Initially, interbody fusions were accomplished via an anterior approach. Posterior and transforaminal interbody fusions are 2 options that accomplish an interbody fusion without the morbidity of an anterior approach. Over the past decade, minimally invasive options including extreme lateral, oblique, and minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusions have gained popularity. CONCLUSIONS: Lumbar interbody fusion can be a useful tool in the setting of unstable degenerative spondylolisthesis. A number of technique options, both open and minimally invasive, are available to accomplish an interbody fusion. The literature to this date does not support a clear benefit of one technique over others in the setting of degenerative spondylolisthesis.