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  • Title: Effect of facet-joint degeneration on the in vivo motion of the lower lumbar spine.
    Author: Yin J, Liu Z, Li C, Luo S, Lai Q, Wang S, Zhang B, Wan Z.
    Journal: J Orthop Surg Res; 2020 Aug 20; 15(1):340. PubMed ID: 32819395.
    Abstract:
    OBJECTIVE: This research studied the in vivo motion characteristics of the L3-S1 lumbar spine with facet-joint degeneration during functional activities. METHODS: Thirteen male and 21 female patients with facet-joint degeneration at the L3-S1 spinal region were included in the study. The L3-S1 lumbar segments of all the patients were divided into 3 groups according to the degree of facet-joints degeneration (mild, moderate, or severe). The ranges of motion (ROM) of the vertebrae were analyzed using a combination of computed tomography and dual fluoroscopic imaging techniques. During functional postures, the ROMs were compared between the 3 groups at each spinal level (L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1). RESULTS: At L3-L4 level, the primary rotations between the mild and moderate groups during left-right twisting activity were significantly different. At L4-L5 level, the primary rotation of the moderate group was significantly higher than the other groups during flexion-extension. During left-right bending activities, a significant difference was observed only between the moderate and severe groups. At L5-S1 level, the rotation of the moderate group was significantly higher than the mild group during left-right bending activity. CONCLUSIONS: Degeneration of the facet joint alters the ROMs of the lumbar spine. As the degree of facet-joint degeneration increased, the ROMs of the lumbar vertebra that had initially increased declined. However, when there was severe facet-joint degeneration, the ROMs of the lumbar spine declined to levels comparative to the moderate group. The relationship between the stability of the lumbar vertebra and the degree of facet-joint degeneration requires further study.
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