J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2002 Sep;32(3):196-199.

Direct Repair of Pars Defects in Symptomatic Lumbar Spondylolysis Using Pedicle Screws and Universal Hooks : Preliminary Report

• Park CK
• Ryu KS

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
The authors introduce a technique of direct repair of pars defects in symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis using pedicle screws and universal hooks.
METHODS
From March 2001 to September 2001, six patients with symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis and positive pars injection test underwent this procedure. Patients with lumbar instability and discogenic pain were excluded. After posterior midline incision, clearing of fibrous, cartilaginous and sclerotic tissues in and around the defects of pars was done until healthy bone was exposed. Strips of cancellous bone were taken from adjacent laminae and packed into the defects of pars. After insertion of the pedicle screws, universal hooks were placed in the lower margin of the lamina of the involved vertebra. With gentle compression between the head of screw and universal hook, the nut was fixed. Same procedures were done on the contralateral side.
RESULTS
Postoperatively, all six patients experienced clinical improvement and there was no complication related with operation.
CONCLUSION
This new technique is considered useful for direct repair of the defects in symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis without significant injury in the normal structures.

Keyword

Lumbar spondylolysis; Pars interarticularis; Direct repair; Pedicular screw; Universal hook

MeSH Terms

Head
Humans
Nuts
Spine
Spondylolysis*