The mini-open anterolateral approach for degenerative thoracolumbar disease

OLIF versus MI-TLIF for patients with degenerative lumbar disease: Is one procedure superior to the other? A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the effectiveness and safety of oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) and minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) for degenerative lumbar disease.

METHODS

We searched relevant studies in Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases comprehensively from inception to March 2022. The data were extracted from included studies, including operation indications, radiographic parameters, and clinical outcomes. Random or fixed-effects models were used in all meta-analyses according to the between-study heterogeneity.

RESULTS

In total, 30 studies, including 2,125 patients, were included in this meta-analysis. Our study found similar disk height, length of hospital stay, visual analog scale (VAS), and Oswestry disability index(ODI) between the two groups. However, the OLIF showed an advantage in restoring lumbar lordotic angle compared with MI-TLIF, with the pooled mean change of 17.73° and 2.61°, respectively. Additionally, the operative time and blood loss in the OLIF group appeared to be less compared with the MI-TLIF group. Regarding complications, the rates of the two groups were similar (OLIF 14.0% vs. MI-TLIF 10.0%), but the major complications that occurred in these two procedures differed significantly.

CONCLUSION

The results of disk height, length of hospital stay, VAS, and ODI between the OLIF and MI-TLIF groups were similar. And the OLIF was superior in restoring lumbar lordotic angle, operative time, and blood loss. However, the OLIF group's complication rate was higher, although not significantly, than that in the MI-TLIF group.

Predictors of the need for rib resection in minimally invasive retroperitoneal approach for oblique lateral interbody fusion at upper lumbar spine (L1-2 and L2-3)

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to identify factors that can predict the need for rib resection in a minimally invasive, oblique retroperitoneal approach for upper lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF at L1-3) using modern tubular retractors.

METHODS

Eighty-six patients, who underwent L1-2 and/or L2-3 OLIF at a single institution, were included. Decision for rib resection was made through intraoperative fluoroscopic view (true lateral view of the desired level). Patients were divided into two groups according to rib resection (rib resection and non-rib resection groups). Baseline demographics, surgical and radiographic data, including coronal/sagittal spinopelvic parameters and perioperative complications, were compared between the groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors predicting the need for rib resection.

RESULTS

The study cohort comprised 31 patients in the rib resection group and 55 patients in the non-rib resection group. There was no significant inter-group difference in terms of the baseline demographics. A total of 79% patients undergoing the two-level (both L1-2 and L2-3) procedures were rib-resected, while 81.6% of the patients undergoing the L2-3 level alone were not rib-resected. Endplate injuries occurred more commonly in the non-rib resection group (3% vs. 14%). Pleural laceration was observed in 6% of the patients in the rib resection group. The mean T10-L2 kyphosis was larger in the rib resection group than in the non-rib resection group (14.9° vs. 6.6°, P = 0.031). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the following independent predictors of the need for rib resection: an L1-2 inclusive procedure; T10-L2 kyphosis > 15.9°; and the apex of the coronal curve located above L2.

CONCLUSION

The need for rib resection should be expected when performing L1-2 inclusive procedure. Even in the L2-3 alone case, aggressive decision-making for intraoperative rib resection might be required for an appropriate tubular retractor position, especially for patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis and apex vertebra of the major coronal curve located above L2.

Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion versus oblique lateral interbody fusion for lumbar degenerative disease: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) and oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) are widely used in the treatment of lumbar degenerative diseases. In the present study, a meta-analysis was conducted to compare the clinical and radiographic efficacy of these two procedures.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed, and the quality of retrieved studies was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Clinical outcomes, including operation time, intraoperative blood loss, improvement in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), improvement in Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ) effectiveness rate and complications, in addition to radiographic outcomes, including restoration of disc height, disc angle, overall lumbar lordosis, fusion rate and subsidence, were extracted and input into a fixed or random effect model to compare the efficacy of MIS-TLIF and OLIF.

RESULTS

Seven qualified studies were included. Clinically, OLIF resulted in less intraoperative blood loss and shorter operation time than MIS-TLIF. Improvement of VAS for leg pain was more obvious in the OLIF group (P < 0.0001), whereas improvement of VAS for back pain (P = 0.08) and ODI (P = 0.98) as well as JOABPEQ effectiveness rate (P = 0.18) were similar in the two groups. Radiographically, OLIF was more effective in restoring disc height (P = 0.01) and equivalent in improving the disc angle (P = 0.18) and lumbar lordosis (P = 0.48) compared with MIS-TLIF. The fusion rate (P = 0.11) was similar in both groups, while the subsidence was more severe in the MIS-TLIF group (P < 0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

The above evidence suggests that OLIF is associated with a shorter operation time (with supplementary fixation in the prone position) and less intraoperative blood loss than MIS-TLIF and can lead to better leg pain alleviation, disc height restoration and subsidence resistance. No differences regarding back pain relief, functional recovery, complications, disc angle restoration, lumbar lordosis restoration and fusion rate were found. However, due to the limited number of studies, our results should be confirmed with high-level studies to fully compare the therapeutic efficacy of MIS-TLIF and OLIF.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO ID:  CRD42020201903 .

Mini-Open Lateral Corpectomy for Thoracolumbar Junction Lesions

BACKGROUND

Neoplastic, traumatic, infectious, and degenerative pathologies affecting the thoracolumbar junction pose a unique challenge to spine surgeons. Posterior or anterior approaches have traditionally been utilized to treat these lesions. Although minimally invasive surgeries through a lateral approach to the thoracic or lumbar spine have gained popularity, lateral access to the thoracolumbar junction remains technically challenging due to the overlying diaphragm positioned at the interface of the peritoneum and pleura.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a mini-open lateral retropleural retroperitoneal approach for pathologies with spinal cord/cauda equina compression at the thoracolumbar junction.

METHODS

A mini-open lateral corpectomy is described in detail in a patient with an L1 metastatic tumor.

RESULTS

Satisfactory decompression and spinal column reconstruction were achieved. The patient obtained neural function recovery following the procedure with no intra- or postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

The morbidities associated with traditional posterior or anterior approaches to thoracolumbar junction pathologies have led to a growing interest in minimally invasive alternatives. The mini-open lateral approach allows for a safe and efficacious corpectomy and reconstruction for thoracolumbar junction pathologies. Thorough understanding of the anatomy, particularly of the diaphragm, is critical. This approach will have expanded roles in the management of patients with thoracolumbar neoplasms, fractures, infections, deformities, or degenerative diseases.

Indirect decompression via oblique lateral interbody fusion for severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis: a comparative study with direct decompression transforaminal/posterior lumbar interbody fusion

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Previous studies have shown that oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) can improve neurological symptoms via "indirect decompression." However, data are lacking in terms of its benefits when compared with conventional transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) and/or posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) approach, especially in patients with severe central canal stenosis.

PURPOSE

To investigate the clinical outcome of OLIF without posterior decompression versus conventional TLIF and/or PLIF in severe lumbar stenosis diagnosed on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective comparative study.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Fifty-one patients who underwent OLIF and 41 patients who underwent conventional TLIF and/or PLIF.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical outcome score by Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score and radiographic outcomes (disc height and fusion rate on computed tomography scan).

MATERIALS/METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 51 patients who underwent OLIF with supplemental percutaneous pedicle screws (55 levels; OLIF group) and 41 patients who underwent conventional TLIF and/or PLIF (47 levels; TPLIF group). The cross-sectional area of the thecal sac was measured preoperatively in OLIF and TPLIF groups, but postoperatively only in the OLIF group. All patients were diagnosed with severe stenosis based on Schizas classification (Grade C or D) on magnetic resonance imaging. We compared radiographic and clinical outcome scores (JOA score) between the 2 groups at 1 year of follow-up. The radiographic evaluation included the fusion status and disc height on computed tomography scan. Surgical data and perioperative complications were also investigated.

RESULTS

The baseline demographic data of the 2 groups were equivalent in preoperative diagnosis, JOA score, and disc height and/or angle. The cross-sectional area significantly increased postoperatively, which confirmed indirect decompressive effect in the OLIF group. The JOA score improved in both groups at the 1-year follow up (76.6% vs. 73.5% improvement rate in the OLIF and TPLIF groups, respectively). The fusion rate at the 1-year follow-up was higher in the OLIF group than in the TPLIF group (87.2% vs. 57.4%). The disc height restoration was also better in the OLIF group. The operative data demonstrated less estimated blood loss and operative time in the OLIF group.

CONCLUSIONS

OLIF and conventional TLIF and/or PLIF demonstrated comparable short-term clinical outcomes in the treatment of severe degenerative lumbar stenosis. However, the surgical and radiographic outcomes were better in the OLIF group. Surgeons should choose an appropriate approach on a case by case basis, recognizing the perioperative complications specific to each fusion procedure.

Lateral-anterior lumbar interbody fusion (LaLIF) for lumbar degenerative disease: Technical notes, surgical system, and mid-term outcomes

Background

Many modified lateral lumbar interbody fusion techniques for lumbar degenerative diseases have been described by different authors. However, relatively high rates of vascular injury, peritoneal laceration, and even ureteral injury have been reported.

Purpose

The objectives of this study were firstly to present the detailed, standardized technical notes and describe the required standard characteristics of the designed surgical system of LaLIF and secondly to evaluate clinical outcomes and highlight the approach-related complications.

Methods

The mini-open LaLIF is described in a step-wise manner. The outcome measures were operative parameters, self-report measures, radiographic measures, and complications within 1 month of surgery. Operative parameters measured included operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and length of hospital stay. The self-report measures include Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) score. The radiographic measures including the intervertebral foraminal height (FH), intervertebral disc height (DH), and intervertebral foraminal area (FA) were assessed with plain radiography. The complication profiles were classified into intraoperative and postoperative (up to 1 month). Intraoperative complications were subcategorized into neurologic, vascular, ureteral, peritoneal, and vertebral injuries. Postoperative complications were subcategorized into infection, cage migration, and subsidence.

Results

A total of 126 patients who underwent LaLIF between April 2016 and December 2018 ​by a senior author were retrospectively reviewed. There were 54 males and 72 females (range 42–89 ​years old, average 65 ​± ​11 years old). The mean follow-up was 20 ​± ​11 ​months (range 6–38 ​months). The LaLIF was conducted at 188 levels in 126 patients, with 1 level in 75 cases, 2 levels in 42, 3 levels in 7, and 4 levels in 2 cases. There were 114 patients who underwent stand-alone LaLIF and 12 patients required secondary posterior fixation. The mean operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and length of hospital stay were recorded. The patient-reported outcome scores (VAS, ODI, and SF-36) and radiographic parameters (FH, DH, and FA) demonstrated a significant improvement after surgery and at the last follow-up. There were 25 (19.8%) complications in the 126 patients. The intraoperative complications accounted for 19 cases (15.1%) and postoperative accounted for 6 cases (4.8%). The most frequent complications were neurological injury (6.3%) and temporary psoas injury (6.3%).

Conclusions

The mini-open LaLIF, as a reproducible novel technique, can be performed safely at L2-L5. It is associated with reliable mid-term clinical outcomes and an acceptable complication profile when compared to traditional LLIF due to the advancements in the modified incision site, direct visualization, and usage of strictly vertical trajectory in multiple steps with the specially designed LaLIF system.

Translational potential statement

To make the lateral lumbar fusion process repeatable and also maintain a shallow learning curve, especially for surgeons in the early stages of learning, by using instruments with the required standard characteristics, the standardized surgical steps, modified incision site, vertical trajectory, and the direct visualization during the entire procedure.

Lumbar Spinal Fusion Using Lateral Oblique (Pre-psoas) Approach (Review)

Lumbar spinal fusion is one of the most common operations in spinal surgery. For its implementation, anterolateral (pre-psoas) approach (oblique lumbar interbody fusion, OLIF) is now increasingly used due to its high efficacy and safety. However, there is still little information on the clinical and radiological results of using this technique.

The aim of the study was to analyze the safety and efficacy of OLIF in the treatment of lumbar spine disorders as presented in the literature.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE LATERAL RETROPLEURAL APPROACH TO THE THORACOLUMBAR JUNCTION – REVIEW & EXPERIENCE

ABSTRACT Objective To describe the minimally invasive technique for the lateral retropleural approach to the thoracolumbar spine and its viability in several affections of the region, demonstrating its indications, potential advantages, and necessary precautions, with an emphasis on the local anatomy, especially the diaphragm. Methods After a review of the literature, the initial experience of the Service is reported, comparing it to the published results. The surgical technique used is described with emphasis on the surgical anatomy of the diaphragm. Results The minimally invasive lateral retropleural approach to the thoracolumbar junction with the application of an expandable tubular retractor was described step-by-step in this study, with emphasis on the crucial points of technical execution, such as preoperative planning, access to the retropleural plane, and an orthogonal approach for adequate discectomy and/or corpectomy and subsequent implant placement. It can be used in the treatment of deformities, degenerative diseases, trauma, tumors, and infections and it allows for adequate interbody arthrodesis fusion rates associated with a smaller skin incision and less soft tissue damage, blood loss, and postoperative pain. Thus, it results in better postoperative mobility and a shorter hospital stay, which can also be observed in the data from initial experience of this Service. Conclusions The minimally invasive technique for the lateral retropleural approach to the thoracolumbar spine with the application of an expandable tubular retractor was shown to be promising and safe for the treatment of several spinal diseases despite the complex and challenging local anatomy and it presents advantages over the morbidity rates observed in the traditional approach. Level of evidence IV; Case series.

Correlation study of radiographic characteristics and operative difficulty in lateral-anterior lumbar interbody fusion (LaLIF) at the L4-5 level: a novel classification for case selection

PURPOSE

To analyze correlations between the realistic surgical difficulty of LaLIF and anatomic characteristics in radiographic images, in order to develop a simple classification to provide guiding information for case selection and evaluate the potential risks of the technique.

METHODS

Ninety-six consecutive cases who underwent LaLIF surgeries at the L4-5 level with MR T2-weighted images were analyzed. A novel classification based on the anatomic relationships among the disk, great vessels, and psoas muscle was used for grouping. Clinical outcomes and realistic surgical difficulty parameters were recorded, and comparisons were made among different types of classifications.

RESULTS

Of the 96 analyzed cases, the time of surgical exposure was significantly longer for type C than for type B, and both of these were longer than that of type A. The VAS and ODI were significantly improved at a 1-year follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference among the three types. Type C had the highest incidence of complications, while Type A had the lowest. Analyses of another 304 MRI cases obtained in outpatient clinics showed that the distribution of the three types among these cases was consistent with that of the surgical cohort.

CONCLUSION

Our novel and simple classification provides useful information for case selection. Type A provided the best indication and is most appropriate for a beginner in this technique. Type C includes the most challenging situations, which may have a high incidence of complications and require sophisticated surgical skills to achieve satisfactory outcomes and avoid approach-related complications.

Indirect decompression with lateral interbody fusion for severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis: minimum 1-year MRI follow-up

OBJECTIVE

The use of indirect decompression surgery for severe canal stenosis remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of lateral interbody fusion (LIF) without posterior decompression in degenerative lumbar spinal spondylosis with severe stenosis on preoperative MRI.

METHODS

This is a retrospective case series from a single academic institution. The authors included 42 patients (45 surgical levels) who were preoperatively diagnosed with severe degenerative lumbar stenosis on MRI based on the previously published Schizas classification. These patients underwent LIF with supplemental pedicle screw fixation without posterior decompression. Surgical levels were limited to L3-4 and/or L4-5. All patients satisfied the minimum 1-year MRI follow-up. The authors compared the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the thecal sac and the clinical outcome scores (Japanese Orthopaedic Association [JOA] score) preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at the 1-year follow-up. Fusion status and disc height were evaluated based on CT scans obtained at the 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

The CSA improved over time, increasing from 54.5 ± 19.2 mm2 preoperatively to 84.7 ± 31.8 mm2 at 3 weeks postoperatively and to 132.6 ± 37.5 mm2 at the last follow-up (average 28.3 months) (p < 0.001). The JOA score significantly improved over time (preoperatively 16.1 ± 4.1, 3 months postoperatively 24.4 ± 4.0, and 1-year follow-up 25.7 ± 2.9; p < 0.001). The fusion rate at the 1-year follow-up was 88.8%, and disc heights were significantly restored (preoperative, 6.3 mm and postoperative, 9.6 mm; p < 0.001). Patients showing poor CSA expansion (< 200% expansion rate) at the last follow-up had a higher prevalence of pseudarthrosis than patients with significant CSA expansion (> 200% expansion rate) (25.0% vs 3.4%, p < 0.001). No major perioperative complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

LIF with indirect decompression for degenerative lumbar disease with severe canal stenosis provided successful clinical outcomes, including restoration of disc height and indirect expansion of the thecal sac. Severe canal stenosis diagnosed on preoperative MRI itself is not a contraindication for indirect decompression surgery.

Development and Application of Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion

The present study reviewed the relevant recent literature regarding the development and application of oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF), with a particular focus on its application and associated complications. The study evaluated the rationality of this technique and demonstrated the direction of future research by collecting data on previous operative outcomes and complications. A literature search was performed in Pubmed and Web of Science, including the following keywords and abbreviations: anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF), direct lateral interbody fusion (DLIF), extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF), oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF), adjacent segment disease (ASD), and adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS). A search of literature published from January 2005 to January 2019 was conducted and all studies evaluating development and application of OLIF were included in the review. According to the literature, the indications for OLIF are various. OLIF has excellent orthopaedic effects in degenerative scoliosis patients and the incidence of bony fusion is higher than for other approaches. It also provides a better choice for revision surgery. It has various advantages in many aspects, but the complications cannot be ignored. As a new minimally invasive technique, the advantages of OLIF are obvious, but further evaluation is needed to compare its operation‐related data with that of traditional open surgery. In addition, more prospective studies are required to compare minimally invasive and open spinal surgery to confirm its specific efficacy, risk, advantages, learning curve, and ultimate clinical efficacy.

Complications for minimally invasive lateral interbody arthrodesis: a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing prepsoas and transpsoas approaches

OBJECTIVE

Minimally invasive anterolateral retroperitoneal approaches for lumbar interbody arthrodesis have distinct advantages attractive to spine surgeons. Prepsoas or transpsoas trajectories can be employed with differing complication profiles because of the inherent anatomical differences encountered in each approach. The evidence comparing them remains limited because of poor quality data. Here, the authors sought to systematically review the available literature and perform a meta-analysis comparing the two techniques.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A database search was used to identify eligible studies. Prepsoas and transpsoas studies were compiled, and each study was assessed for inclusion criteria. Complication rates were recorded and compared between approach groups. Studies incorporating an analysis of postoperative subsidence and pseudarthrosis rates were also assessed and compared.

RESULTS

For the prepsoas studies, 20 studies for the complications analysis and 8 studies for the pseudarthrosis outcomes analysis were included. For the transpsoas studies, 39 studies for the complications analysis and 19 studies for the pseudarthrosis outcomes analysis were included. For the complications analysis, 1874 patients treated via the prepsoas approach and 4607 treated with the transpsoas approach were included. In the transpsoas group, there was a higher rate of transient sensory symptoms (21.7% vs 8.7%, p = 0.002), transient hip flexor weakness (19.7% vs 5.7%, p < 0.001), and permanent neurological weakness (2.8% vs 1.0%, p = 0.005). A higher rate of sympathetic nerve injury was seen in the prepsoas group (5.4% vs 0.0%, p = 0.03). Of the nonneurological complications, major vascular injury was significantly higher in the prepsoas approach (1.8% vs 0.4%, p = 0.01). There was no difference in urological or peritoneal/bowel injury, postoperative ileus, or hematomas (all p > 0.05). A higher infection rate was noted for the transpsoas group (3.1% vs 1.1%, p = 0.01). With regard to postoperative fusion outcomes, similar rates of subsidence (12.2% prepsoas vs 13.8% transpsoas, p = 0.78) and pseudarthrosis (9.9% vs 7.5%, respectively, p = 0.57) were seen between the groups at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Complication rates vary for the prepsoas and transpsoas approaches owing to the variable retroperitoneal anatomy encountered during surgical dissection. While the risks of a lasting motor deficit and transient sensory disturbances are higher for the transpsoas approach, there is a reciprocal reduction in the risks of major vascular injury and sympathetic nerve injury. These results can facilitate informed decision-making and tailored surgical planning regarding the choice of minimally invasive anterolateral access to the spine.

Assessment of related surgical complications of minimally invasive retropleural approach to the thoraco-lumbar spine

OBJECTIVE

To review the complications associated with the minimally invasive retropleural approach used in the anterior approach to the thoraco-lumbar spine.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We present the MIS surgical technique and the evaluation of data collected prospectively from the initial series of 31 patients undergoing surgery. Pleural opening during the approach, lung complications derived, other surgical complications, time of intervention, intraoperative bleeding, need for transfusion and hospital stay are evaluated.

DISCUSSION

The mean age of the patients was 58years, the surgical time 225min, and the bleeding 274ml, with a 13% postoperative transfusion. Intraoperatively, pleural opening was detected in 8 cases, of which none had major pulmonary complications during the postoperative period. There were 3 cases of mild pleural effusion, all patients without pleural opening, and one case of haemopneumothorax due to intercostal vessel bleeding that required reoperation. The percentage of intercostal neuralgia was 3%. The mean hospital stay was 6.7days, and 24 of 31 patients were able to initiate early mobilization on the first postoperative day.

CONCLUSIONS

The retropleural approach allows the surgical treatment of pathologies requiring anterior access to the thoraco-lumbar spine, with a low profile of pulmonary complications, and with the advantages of minimally invasive techniques in terms of less bleeding, early recovery and shorter hospital stay. Nevertheless the learning curve is long.

Complications on minimally invasive oblique lumbar interbody fusion at L2-L5 levels: a review of the literature and surgical strategies

Fusion is the cornerstone in the treatment of an unstable degenerative lumbar spinal disease. Various techniques have been developed. Amongst these techniques exists the oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF), which is the ante-psoas approach. Adequate restoration of disc height with large cages placed in the intervertebral space, indirect decompression, and correction of sagittal and coronal alignment can be achieved with OLIF procedure with the advantage of minimal risk for the psoas muscle and lumbar plexus. Nevertheless, this technique entails complications directly associated with the anatomical location where the fusion takes place. This surgical area is a window between the left lateral border of the aorta, or the left common iliac artery, and the anterior belly of the left psoas muscle. Vascular complications associated with the injury of the main vessels, segmental artery or iliolumbar vein of the lumbar spine have been reported, as well as urologic lesions due to ureter transgression, amongst others. Although these complications have been described in the literature, an article that complements this information with technical advice for its avoidance is yet to be published. This article is a review of the most frequent complications associated with the OLIF procedure in L2-L5 lumbar levels, as well as a description of technical strategies for the prevention of such complications.

Prepsoas oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion in deformity surgery

Interbody fusions are routinely used in deformity surgery to achieve both coronal and sagittal correction and attain increased fusion rates. Minimally invasive interbody techniques, including the prepsoas approach, are being utilized to decrease tissue disruption, blood loss, and patient morbidity with similar outcomes compared to traditional surgery. The prepsoas oblique lateral interbody fusion, accesses the spine between the iliac arteries or aorta and psoas muscle, and allows for exposure of the lumbar spine while avoiding some complications commonly seen with a direct lateral approach. Navigation can assist the surgeon for surgical planning, ensuring appropriate placement of the interbody graft, and with placement of posterior pedicle screws. In correctly selected patients, these minimally invasive procedures can achieve excellent deformity correction and outcomes.

Morphometric MRI Imaging Study of the Corridor for the Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion Technique at L1-L5

BACKGROUND

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion and lateral lumbar interbody fusion are associated with approach-related disadvantages. Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) is the proposed solution, especially for upper lumbar levels. We analyzed the size and regional anatomy of the corridor used in the OLIF technique between levels L1 and L5.

METHODS

This is a morphometric study of 200 randomly selected magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies with features of lumbar degenerative disease. On MRI, the oblique corridor was defined as the smallest distance between the psoas major muscle and aorta or inferior vena cava (or common iliac artery) and measured at the L1/L2, L2/L3, L3/L4, and L4/L5 disc levels on both the left and right on the axial images at the mid-disc level.

RESULTS

Mean distances of the oblique corridor on the left side were L1/L2 = 18.90 mm, L2/L3 = 15.50 mm; L3/L4 = 12.75 mm, and L4/L5 = 8.92 mm; on the right side, they were L1/L2 = 14.80 mm, L2/L3 = 5.50 mm, L3/L4 = 3.00 mm, and L4/L5 = 1.46 mm. For both sides, the corridor size was not significantly affected by sex, and it increased with age and decreased at the inferior lumbar disc levels. The L1/L2 and L2/L3 levels may be obstructed by the ipsilateral kidney and renal vasculature on both sides and the liver on the right side.

CONCLUSIONS

A left-sided OLIF approach is viable for both sexes. Oblique access to the L1/L2 and L2/L3 disc levels is feasible regardless of age, whereas the L3/L4 and L4/L5 levels may be more suitable in older patients, especially for male patients. The right-sided approach is less likely to be performed effectively.

Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Technical Aspects, Operative Outcomes, and Complications

OBJECTIVE

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) are commonly used approaches for lumbar spine fusion surgery, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. ALIF requires mobilization of the great vessels and peritoneum, and dissection of the psoas muscle in the LLIF technique is associated with postoperative neurologic complications in the proximal lower limb. The anterior-to-psoas (ATP) or oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) technique is the proposed solution to accessing the L1-L5 levels without the issues encountered with ALIF and LLIF. In this review, the technical nuances, operative outcomes, and complications with the ATP/OLIF technique in the current literature are summarized.

METHODS

A systematic search of the literature was performed according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Data collected included operative time, blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, and complications, which were then pooled together.

RESULTS

From the 16 studies selected, the mean blood loss was 109.9 mL, average operating time was 95.2 minutes, and mean postoperative hospital stay was 6.3 days. Fusion was achieved in 93% of levels operated. Incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications was 1.5% and 9.9%, respectively. Transient thigh pain and/or numbness and hip flexion weakness occurred in 3.0% and 1.2% of patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Early results on the ATP/OLIF technique are promising and warrant further investigation with well-designed prospective randomized studies to provide high-level evidence of the potential advantages over the ALIF and LLIF approaches.

Comparison of minimal access and traditional anterior spinal surgery in managing infectious spondylitis: a minimum 2-year follow-up

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Traditional anterior spinal surgery (TASS) for the thoracolumbar spine is associated with significant morbidities. To avoid excessive tissue damage, minimal access spinal surgery (MASS) has been developed to treat a variety of anterior spinal disorders at the authors' institution. No previous reports comparing the outcomes of MASS and TASS for the treatment of infectious spondylitis were noted in the literature, to our knowledge.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of MASS in managing infectious spondylitis and compare the results to TASS with a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective comparative cohort study in a single center.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Forty patients with thoracic or lumbar infectious spondylitis who underwent anterior spinal surgery were enrolled.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Perioperative data including operative time, estimated blood loss, packed red blood cell transfusion, postoperative tube drainage, need for intensive care, and length of hospital stay. Postoperative complications were classified according to the Clavien-Dindo system. Fusion grade was assessed by plain radiographs on the basis of Burkus criteria.

METHODS

Between January 2002 and June 2010, all enrolled patients were collected via the Spine Operation Registry of the authors' institution. There were 23 MASS patients and 17 TASS patients. The average follow-up was 4.2 years (range, 2-9 years).

RESULTS

The mean estimated blood loss in MASS and TASS groups was 521.7 versus 979.4 mL (p=.007), intraoperative transfusion of packed red blood cells was 0.9 versus 2.7 units (p=.019), the amount of postoperative tube drainage was 235.2 versus 454.3 mL (p=.005), the number of patients requiring postoperative intensive care was 2 versus 7 (p=.023), and length of hospital stay was 15.4 versus 22.9, respectively (p=.043). The overall complication rate in the MASS group was 17% and 59% in the TASS group (p=.007). No major complications occurred in the MASS group, whereas four occurred in the TASS group (p=.026). Bone graft union was achieved in 38 of 39 survival patients (97%), with no difference between the groups. One patient in TASS had a pseudarthrosis and needed a posterior instrumented fusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Minimal access spinal surgery has been suggested to be an effective and safe technique in treating thoracic and lumbar infectious spondylitis. Minimal access spinal surgery did not need endoscopic equipments or complex surgical instruments. Furthermore, in comparison to TASS, MASS resulted in a reduced blood transfusion amount, decreased intensive care unit stay, reduced overall length of stay, and reduced surgical complication rate. Nevertheless, the risks may be increased in performing MASS on patients with multilevel involvement, which could be associated with high vascularity, alternated vascular anatomy, increased soft-tissue edema, and adhesion.