OBJECTIVETo evaluate the value of pedicle parameter obtained by the reformation images on multi-slice spiral CT (MSCT) in the surgical treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis.

METHODSFrom January 2009 to March 2010, 60 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis failing in conservative treatment were enrolled into the study and divided into experimental and control group randomly (each group with 30 patients). There were 26 males and 34 females ranging in age from 18 to 59 years with an average of (42.60 +/- 9.36) years. The experimental group was examined with volumetric scanning on MSCT before operation. Reformation such as multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) and volume rendering (VR) were carried out at the work station. Transverse section angle (TSA), sagittal section angle (SSA), pedicle length (PL), pedicle width (PW) and pedicle height (PH) were measured on different images and pedicle screws were implanted according pedicle parameter. In control group, the pedicle screws were implanted according to conventional anatomic landmark. Preparative time of screw canal and accuracy of screw were compared between two groups.

RESULTSA hundred fifty-six screws were inserted in experiment group,143 screws were excellent, 11 good, and 2 poor. A hundred fifty screws were inserted in control group, 101 screws were excellent, 26 good, and 23 poor. There was significant difference in accuracy of screw between two groups (P < 0.001). The preparative time of screw canal in experiment group was (66.20 +/- 7.31) s, and was shorter than that of control group [(104.11 +/- 9.51) s, P < 0.001)].

CONCLUSIONAbundant information and parameter could be obtained with the MSCT reconstruction images. The images and parameters could make a perfect operative strategy before operation, adjust the direction of pedicle screws during operation, avoid and decrease operative complications effectively.