Posterior Pedicle Fixation-based Dynamic Stabilization Devices for the Treatment of Degenerative Diseases of the Lumbar Spine

STUDY DESIGN: Literature review. OBJECTIVE: To provide a comprehensive review of the available literature reporting clinical results of using pedicle-based posterior dynamic stabilization systems in the lumbar spine. METHODS: A literature search was performed using a number of key words including: posterior dynamic stabilization, facet replacement, pedicle fixation. RESULTS: There is a wide array of pedicle-based, posterior dynamic stabilization systems available. Purported indications are also varied, spanning from degenerative disk disease to reconstruction after laminectomy for spinal stenosis. Short-term and mid-term clinical results of some of these devices are available. For many others, clinical studies are still underway or have just begun. CONCLUSIONS: For the spine community to draw sound conclusions that a posterior dynamic device is better than fusion, results from multiple, similarly designed, independently funded trials must be compiled, compared, and contrasted.