Midline Versus Paramedian Approaches in Treating Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis

For the increasing numbers of patients undergoing fusion procedures for the degenerative lumbar spine, infection and re-operation can negatively impact outcomes. Numerous observational and retrospective reviews have shown advantages to para-median versus midline approaches; however, recent systematic reviews have shown a need for a well-powered, prospective randomized control trials comparing both exposures. As a step towards a long-term goal of an RCT to address this issue, the purpose of this pilot study is to gather initial data to examine whether operative approach impacts the short-term infection rate, re-operation rate, length of stay, and overall costs to the system. Patients deemed appropriate surgical candidates with single or two-level degenerative spondylolisthesis will be approached for participation, and randomized into either the midline or paramedian group. Initial follow-ups will be at 2 and 6 weeks, and 3 months. Infection rates, inpatient and outpatient adverse events, re-operation rates, radiation exposure and costs will be determined. Cost effectiveness analysis will be estimated comparing each procedure using a bottom-up estimation. Post-operative wound infection can have a significant effect on patient short and long term outcomes. If a significant difference in infection rate is demonstrated, as well as lower re-operation rates, shorter stays, and decreased overall costs, adoption of paramedian approaches to single or two-level fusions of the lumbar spine might be suggested, providing fuel for a full-scale RCT.