Determination of the Functional Relationship Between Lumbar Lordosis and Pelvic Tilt

Abstract

Americans are undergoing spinal fusion surgery (SFS) at an ever increasing rate; in 2008 over 400,000 Americans underwent SFS with a national cost of approximately $33.9 billion. During SFS it is difficult for the surgeon to properly align the spine's sshape, as viewed from the patient's side. Abnormal alignment of the spine then alters the position of the pelvis and hip joints, which may impact the function and hip contact patterns. Several studies have shown that patients with spinal pathology, such as arthritis, often have a coexisting hip pathology or subsequently develop hip pathology, and it is estimated that 18% of individuals undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) have concurrently developed a lumbar spine disorder. If the THA patient then undergoes SFS, any abnormal alignment of the spine can then impact the function and survivorship of the THA. vi TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION .