Fig. 1

Representative radiographic images (a) and X-ray scores (b) of the three groups underwent lumbar fusions at 12 weeks post-PLF. The PLF was performed at the L4-5 segment using an intertransverse process fusion with an autologous iliac bone graft and spinous-process wire fixation. The OVX + PLF + sCT group showed a higher radiographic density than the OVX + PLF + V group. Note: ^# P = 0.043 vs. PLF + V group; ^■ P = 0.013 vs. OVX + PLF + V group