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An J, Chen J, Wu H, Zhao J, Zhang W. A retrospective case-control study on the effectiveness of preoperative diffusion tensor imaging for mitigating nerve injury in extreme lateral interbody fusion surgery. Spine J 2024:S1529-9430(24)00307-3. [PMID: 38942298 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2024.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF) has been established as an effective treatment for degenerative disorders of the lumbar spine. Nevertheless, there is a potential risk of lumbar plexus damage associated with XLIF, especially during surgeries at the L4-5 segment. Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) evaluates the directional diffusion of water molecules in tissue, providing a more intricate depiction of internal tissue microstructure compared to conventional MRI techniques. The capability of DTI sequences to elucidate the 3-dimensional interplay between lumbar nerve pathways and adjacent musculoskeletal structures, potentially reducing the incidence of nerve injury complications related to XLIF, remains to be established. PURPOSE This study evaluates the effectiveness of preoperative Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) in reducing neurological complications after Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF) surgeries at the L4-5 level, focusing on the interaction between lumbar nerves and the psoas major muscle. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case-control study. PATIENT SAMPLE The study included 128 patients undergoing XLIF surgery for degenerative disorders at the L4-5 segment: 68 in the traditional group and 62 in the DTI group. OUTCOME MEASURES The study assessed Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, along with complication rates. It also documented psoas major muscle morphology and its correlation with nerve pathways. METHODS A retrospective analysis of 128 patients undergoing XLIF surgery for degenerative disorders at the L4-5 segment between February 2020 and August 2022 was conducted. The cohort was divided into a traditional group (68 patients) receiving presurgery MRI scans to identify surgical entry points at the intervertebral space midpoint (Zones II-III junction) and a DTI group (62 patients) who additionally underwent preoperative DTI to customize entry points. The study evaluated VAS and ODI scores, complication rates, psoas major muscle morphology, and its interaction with nerve pathways. RESULTS The traditional group uniformly chose the Zone II-III junction for entry. In contrast, the DTI group's entry points varied. Postoperative follow-up revealed significant improvements in VAS and ODI scores in both groups. However, the DTI group experienced fewer immediate postoperative complications such as thigh pain, numbness, and motor disturbances. The study also noted a ventral shift in nerve positioning in patients with elevated psoas muscles. CONCLUSIONS Preoperative DTI effectively maps the relationship between the psoas major muscle and lumbar nerves. Tailoring surgical entry points based on DTI results significantly reduces the risk of nerve damage in XLIF surgeries. The study underscores the importance of recognizing variability in lumbar nerve pathways due to differing psoas muscle morphologies, highlighting a higher risk of nerve injury in patients with elevated psoas muscles during XLIF procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jilong An
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China; Department of Spinal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital Of Hebei University, BaoDing, China
| | - Jianan Chen
- Department of Radiology, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Haoyu Wu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jian Zhao
- Department of Radiology, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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Kramer DE, Woodhouse C, Kerolus MG, Yu A. Lumbar plexus safe working zones with lateral lumbar interbody fusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2022; 31:2527-2535. [PMID: 35984508 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-022-07352-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Significant risk of injury to the lumbar plexus and its departing motor and sensory nerves exists with lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). Several cadaveric and imaging studies have investigated the lumbar plexus position with respect to the vertebral body anteroposterior plane. To date, no systematic review and meta-analysis of the lumbar plexus safe working zones for LLIF has been performed. METHODS This systematic review was conducted according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Relevant studies reporting on the position of the lumbar plexus with relation to the vertebral body in the anteroposterior plane were identified from a PubMed database query. Quantitative analysis was performed using Welch's t test. RESULTS Eighteen studies were included, encompassing 1005 subjects and 2472 intervertebral levels. Eleven studies used supine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with in vivo subjects. Seven studies used cadavers, five of which performed dissection in the left lateral decubitus position. A significant correlation (p < 0.001) existed between anterior lumbar plexus displacement and evaluation with in vivo MRI at all levels between L1-L5 compared with cadaveric measurement. Supine position was also associated with significant (p < 0.001) anterior shift of the lumbar plexus at all levels between L1-L5. CONCLUSIONS This is the first comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of the lumbar neural components and safe working zones for LLIF. Our analysis suggests that the lumbar plexus is significantly displaced ventrally with the supine compared to lateral decubitus position, and that MRI may overestimate ventral encroachment of lumbar plexus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas E Kramer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Allegheny Health Network, 320 East North Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212, USA.
| | - Cody Woodhouse
- Department of Neurosurgery, Allegheny Health Network, 320 East North Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212, USA
| | - Mena G Kerolus
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, 1725 West Harrison Street, Suite 855, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Alexander Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Allegheny Health Network, 320 East North Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212, USA
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Tannoury C, Das A, Saade A, Bhale R, Chen K, Tannoury T. The Antepsoas (ATP) Surgical Corridor for Lumbar and Lumbosacral Arthrodesis: A Radiographic, Anatomic, and Surgical Investigation. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2022; 47:1084-1092. [PMID: 35834370 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000004360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review of prospectively collected data. OBJECTIVE To investigate the size of prepsoas surgical corridors, developed between the iliopsoas and prespinal vessels, at all disk levels between L1 and S1 granted by left and right lateral antepsoas (ATP) approaches. Secondary aims include evaluation of presurgery radiographic prepsoas windows between L1 and S1 with respect to the intraoperative findings. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The ATP technique is an evolving alternative to the transpsoas and direct anterior exposures for lumbar fusion. However, the vascular morphometric data of the ATP approach remain underexplored, especially at L5-S1. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients indicated for ATP lumbar-lumbosacral fusion between September 2018 and February 2020 were enrolled (n=121). Data were collected prospectively, including the following (in mm): intraoperative manual measurements of the premobilization psoas-vessel (pre-PV) window, the final postmobilization psoas-vessel (post-PV) window, and the preoperative radiographic psoas-to-vessel distance at the respective studied disk levels. RESULTS A total of 121 patients (75 female, mean age: 55.3 yr, 81.8% right-sided approach) underwent a total of 279 levels of spinal fusion. Irrespective of the ATP access laterality, we noted ample postmobilization psoas-vessel (post-PV differential) corridors: largest at L4-L5 (36-38 mm) followed by L5-S1 (31-35 mm), L3-L4 (32-33 mm), L2-L3 (28-30 mm), and L1-L2 (20-24 mm). Similarly, the relative increases of the psoas-vessel corridors (post-PV and pre-PV differentials, averaged: 31 mm at L5-S1, 32 mm at L4-L5, 26 mm at L3-L4, 25 mm at L2-L3, and 14 mm at L1-L2) were also significant in both lateral approaches. In right flank approaches, the right vascular structures projected more dorsally compared with left-sided vasculature ( P <0.05). CONCLUSION The ATP access offers generous bilateral prepsoas surgical windows to L1-S1 intervertebral disks, allowing for a safe anterior column release, decompression, instrumentation, and fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chadi Tannoury
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Avilash Das
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | | | - Rahul Bhale
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Kathleen Chen
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Tony Tannoury
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA
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Vialle EN, Vialle LRG, Ern LC, Rodríguez LMD, Huayta GC, Guasque JBCR. COMPARATIVE STUDY OF LUMBAR PLEXUS PATH ON THE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDES THROUGH THE PSOAS MUSCLE. COLUNA/COLUMNA 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/s1808-185120181704189520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective: Spine surgery with a minimally invasive lateral approach and validate possible anatomical differences between the right and left sides. Methods: Four measurements (cm) were taken on 38 cadavers: the distance between the lumbar plexus and the transverse process (L4-L5) and the distance between the lumbar plexus and the midline of the lumbar spine, both on the right and left sides. Results: The mean distance between the lumbar plexus and the transverse process of L4-L5 was 1.03 cm and the distance to the midline was 3.99 cm for the right side. The averages of the left side were 1.13 cm and 3.38 cm, respectively. There is statistical difference between the sides (p<0.05) using the non-parametric Wilcoxon test. Conclusions: The authors suggest that the transverse process might be used as an anatomical landmark to define the surgical approach through the psoas muscle. Level of Evidence IV; Cadaveric study.
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Lambrechts MJ, Wiegers NW, Ituarte F, Shen FH, Nourbakhsh A. Safe zone for irrigation and debridement of psoas abscess through a dorsal spinal approach. Surg Radiol Anat 2018; 40:1217-1221. [PMID: 29978329 DOI: 10.1007/s00276-018-2063-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This cadaver study was initiated to identify safe zones for psoas abscess debridement using a dorsal spinal approach. METHODS Twenty total specimens were dissected and lumbar transverse process (TP) and psoas muscles were identified. The distance from the lateral psoas muscle to the transverse process tip was measured. The lumbar plexus was dissected from the psoas and the distance from the TP to the lateral border of the lumbar plexus was measured. The area between the lateral edge of the psoas and lumbar plexus at each lumbar level was considered a safe zone of approach for entry into the psoas muscle for abscess debridement. RESULTS The most lateral portion of the lumbar plexus was 9.3 mm medial to the superior tip of the L1 TP and 9.2 mm medial to the inferior tip at L1, it was 11.8 and 11.7 mm medial at L2, 10.5 and 9.8 mm medial at L3, 6.6 and 6.2 mm medial at L4, and 1.0 and 0.9 mm medial at L5. The distances from the TP tip to the lateral edge of the psoas muscle were 5.7 and 5.5 mm medial to the superior and inferior tip of the TP at L1, 5.1 and 4.7 mm medial at L2, 2.5 and 1.8 mm medial at L3, 0.4 and 0 mm medial at L4 and 3.7 and 3.8 mm lateral at L5. CONCLUSIONS This study provides landmarks to avoid the critical structures in the lumbar spine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Lambrechts
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nicholas W Wiegers
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Felipe Ituarte
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Francis H Shen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ali Nourbakhsh
- Spine Surgery Division, Well Star Atlanta Medical Center, 303 Parkway Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30312, USA.
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Patel A, Oh J, Leven D, Cautela FS, Chatterjee D, Naziri Q, Langella F, Diebo BG, Paulino CB. Anatomical Modifications during the Lateral Transpsoas Approach to the Lumbar Spine. The Impact of Vertebral Rotation. Int J Spine Surg 2018; 12:8-14. [PMID: 30280077 DOI: 10.14444/5002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We investigated impact of vertebral axial rotation on neurovascular anatomy in adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients and provided recommendations on the approach based on degree of axial rotation. In order to isolate vertebral rotation (VR) impact from the superimposed degenerative cascade observed in adulthood, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients were analyzed. Methods Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans (L1-S1) from 50 right-convex thoracic (left-convex lumbar) AIS patients were analyzed. At each intervertebral level, VR, lumbar plexus depth (LPD), and vascular structure depth (VSD) were evaluated. Paired t test analyses were used to describe anatomic differences between the concave and convex aspect of our patients' curves. Correlation analysis was used to investigate relationships with soft tissue modifications and VR. Results Fifty AIS patients (17M, 33F) with mean thoracic Cobb of 50.6° ± 17.0° and mean lumbar Cobb of 41.9° ± 13.0° were included. Mean VR at each level was L1-2 = -6.6°, L2-3 = -7.7°, L3-4 = -6.5°, L4-5 = -4.7°, L5-S1 = -2.6° (negative value denotes clockwise rotation). We found significant differences (P < .05) between concave-convex (right-left) LPD at each level (L1-2 = 3.7 mm, L2-3 = 5.1 mm, L3-4 = 4.2 mm, L4-5 = 2.2 mm, L5-S1 = 2.2 mm). Vascular structure depth was significantly different at L1-L2 (3.2 mm) and L5-S1 (3 mm). Significant correlation was found between increasing VR and concave-convex LPD difference (r = 0.68, P < .001). Conclusions This study demonstrates that displacement of the lumbar plexus is tied to the magnitude of VR in patients with AIS. When approaching the lumbar spine, this displacement widens the safe surgical corridor on the convex side and narrows the corridor on the concave side. Level of Evidence IV. Clinical Relevance Preoperative review of MRI scans should occur to assess the patient's safe surgical corridor for lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). Adult spinal deformity surgeons who approach a degenerated spine in patients with progressive AIS in adulthood must carefully plan for patient positioning, neurovascular anatomy, and realignment objectives prior to the day of surgical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Patel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Jason Oh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Dante Leven
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Frank S Cautela
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Dipal Chatterjee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Qais Naziri
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
| | | | - Bassel G Diebo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Carl B Paulino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center/University Hospital Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York
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Psoas Morphology Differs between Supine and Sitting Magnetic Resonance Imaging Lumbar Spine: Implications for Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion. Asian Spine J 2018; 12:29-36. [PMID: 29503679 PMCID: PMC5821929 DOI: 10.4184/asj.2018.12.1.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Study Design Retrospective radiological review. Purpose To quantify the effect of sitting vs supine lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and change in anterior displacement of the psoas muscle from L1–L2 to L4–L5 discs. Overview of Literature Controversy exists in determining patient suitability for lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) based on psoas morphology. The effect of posture on psoas morphology has not previously been studied; however, lumbar MRI may be performed in sitting or supine positions. Methods A retrospective review of a single-spine practice over 6 months was performed, identifying patients aged between 18–90 years with degenerative spinal pathologies and lumbar MRIs were evaluated. Previous lumbar fusion, scoliosis, neuromuscular disease, skeletal immaturity, or intrinsic abnormalities of the psoas muscle were excluded. The anteroposterior (AP) dimension of the psoas muscle and intervertebral disc were measured at each intervertebral disc from L1–L2 to L4–L5, and the AP psoas:disc ratio calculated. The morphology was compared between patients undergoing sitting and/or supine MRI. Results Two hundred and nine patients were identified with supine-, and 60 patients with sitting-MRIs, of which 13 patients had undergone both sitting and supine MRIs (BOTH group). A propensity score match (PSM) was performed for patients undergoing either supine or sitting MRI to match for age, BMI, and gender to produce two groups of 43 patients. In the BOTH and PSM group, sitting MRI displayed significantly higher AP psoas:disc ratio compared with supine MRI at all intervertebral levels except L1–L2. The largest difference observed was a mean 32%–37% increase in sitting AP psoas:disc ratio at the L4–L5 disc in sitting compared to supine in the BOTH group (range, 0%–137%). Conclusions The psoas muscle and the lumbar plexus become anteriorly displaced in sitting MRIs, with a greater effect noted at caudal intervertebral discs. This may have implications in selecting suitability for LLIF, and intra-operative patient positioning.
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Barber SM, Boghani Z, Steele W, Blacklock JB, Trask T, Holman P. Variation in Psoas Muscle Location Relative to the Safe Working Zone for L4/5 Lateral Transpsoas Interbody Fusion: A Morphometric Analysis. World Neurosurg 2017; 107:396-399. [PMID: 28797977 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.07.178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The safe working zone for lateral access to the L4/5 disc space has been said to lie in the anteroposterior (AP) midpoint of the disc space due to the location of the femoral nerve at that level. However, the AP location of the psoas muscle (and thus the lumbosacral plexus within) at L4/5 is variable. A psoas muscle lying excessively anteriorly at the L4/5 disc space may preclude safe access to the L4/5 disc space from a lateral transpsoas approach. METHODS Lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for 300 consecutive patients at the authors' institution were reviewed retrospectively. The AP distance between the ventral aspect of the thecal sac and the dorsal aspect of the psoas muscle at L4/5 was measured, as was the AP diameter of the L4/5 disc space. RESULTS The dorsal aspect of the psoas muscle at L4/5 was most commonly found dorsal to the ventral aspect of the thecal sac (zone P, N = 145; 48.3%), whereas it was found at the junction of zones IV/P in 37 patients (12.3%), in zone IV in 85 patients (28.3%), in zone III in 29 patients (9.7%), and in zone II in 4 patients (1.3%). CONCLUSIONS The location of the psoas muscle in relation to the L4/5 disc space is somewhat variable. In 11% of patients, the dorsal-most aspect of the psoas muscle was located within zones II or III, likely precluding safe access to the L4/5 disc space from a lateral transpsoas approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Barber
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - Zain Boghani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - William Steele
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - J Bob Blacklock
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Todd Trask
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Paul Holman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
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Epstein NE. Extreme lateral lumbar interbody fusion: Do the cons outweigh the pros? Surg Neurol Int 2016; 7:S692-S700. [PMID: 27843688 PMCID: PMC5054636 DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.191079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major factors prompted the development of minimally invasive (MIS) extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF; NuVasive Inc., San Diego, CA, USE) for the thoracic/lumbar spine. These include providing interbody stabilization and indirect neural decompression while avoiding major visceral/vessel injury as seen with anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), and to avert trauma to paraspinal muscles/facet joints found with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), and posterior-lateral fusion techniques (PLF). Although anticipated pros of MIS XLIF included reduced blood loss, operative time, and length of stay (LOS), they also included, higher fusion, and lower infection rates. Unanticipated cons, however, included increased morbidity/mortality rates. METHODS We assessed the pros and cons (e.g., risks, complications, comparable value/superiority/inferiority, morbidity/mortality) of MIS XLIF vs. ALIF, TLIF, PLIF, and PLF. RESULTS Pros of XLIF included various biomechanical and technical surgical advantages, along with multiple cons vs. ALIF, TLIF, PLIF, and PLF. For example, XLIF correlated with a considerably higher frequency of major neurological deficits vs. other constructs; plexus injuries 13.28%, sensory deficits 0-75% (permanent in 62.5%), motor deficits 0.7-33.6%, and anterior thigh pain 12.5-25%. XLIF also disproportionately contributed to other major morbidity/mortality; sympathectomy, major vascular injuries (some life-ending others life-threatening), bowel perforations, and seromas. Furthermore, multiple studies documented no superiority, and the potential inferiority of XLIF vs. ALIF, TLIF, PLIF, and PLF. CONCLUSION Reviewing the pros of XLIF (e.g. radiographic, technical, biomechanical) vs. the cons (inferiority, increased morbidity/mortality) vs. ALIF, TLIF, PLIF, and PLF, we question whether XLIF should remain part of the lumbar spinal surgical armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E. Epstein
- Chief of Neurosurgical Spine and Education, Department of Neurosurgery, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, New York – 11501, USA
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Epstein NE. More nerve root injuries occur with minimally invasive lumbar surgery: Let's tell someone. Surg Neurol Int 2016; 7:S96-S101. [PMID: 26904373 PMCID: PMC4743264 DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.174896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In a recent study entitled: “More nerve root injuries occur with minimally invasive lumbar surgery, especially extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF): A review”, Epstein documented that more nerve root injuries occurred utilizing minimally invasive surgery (MIS) versus open lumbar surgery for diskectomy, decompression of stenosis (laminectomy), and/or fusion for instability. Methods: In large multicenter Spine Patient Outcomes Research Trial reviews performed by Desai et al., nerve root injury with open diskectomy occurred in 0.13–0.25% of cases, occurred in 0% of laminectomy/stenosis with/without fusion cases, and just 2% for open laminectomy/stenosis/degenerative spondylolisthesis with/without fusion. Results: In another MIS series performed largely for disc disease (often contained nonsurgical disc herniations, therefore unnecessary procedures) or spondylolisthesis, the risk of root injury was 2% for transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) versus 7.8% for posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). Furthermore, the high frequencies of radiculitis/nerve root/plexus injuries incurring during anterior lumbar interbody fusions (ALIF: 15.8%) versus extreme lumbar interbody fusions (XLIF: 23.8%), addressing disc disease, failed back surgery, and spondylolisthesis, were far from acceptable. Conclusions: The incidence of nerve root injuries following any of the multiple MIS lumbar surgical techniques (TLIF/PLIF/ALIF/XLIF) resulted in more nerve root injuries when compared with open conventional lumbar surgical techniques. Considering the majority of these procedures are unnecessarily being performed for degenerative disc disease alone, spine surgeons should be increasingly asked why they are offering these operations to their patients?
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Epstein
- Department of Winthrop NeuroScience, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
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Epstein NE. More nerve root injuries occur with minimally invasive lumbar surgery, especially extreme lateral interbody fusion: A review. Surg Neurol Int 2016; 7:S83-95. [PMID: 26904372 PMCID: PMC4743267 DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.174895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the lumbar spine, do more nerve root injuries occur utilizing minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques versus open lumbar procedures? To answer this question, we compared the frequency of nerve root injuries for multiple open versus MIS operations including diskectomy, laminectomy with/without fusion addressing degenerative disc disease, stenosis, and/or degenerative spondylolisthesis. METHODS Several of Desai et al. large Spine Patient Outcomes Research Trial studies showed the frequency for nerve root injury following an open diskectomy ranged from 0.13% to 0.25%, for open laminectomy/stenosis with/without fusion it was 0%, and for open laminectomy/stenosis/degenerative spondylolisthesis with/without fusion it was 2%. RESULTS Alternatively, one study compared the incidence of root injuries utilizing MIS transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) versus posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) techniques; 7.8% of PLIF versus 2% of TLIF patients sustained root injuries. Furthermore, even higher frequencies of radiculitis and nerve root injuries occurred during anterior lumbar interbody fusions (ALIFs) versus extreme lateral interbody fusions (XLIFs). These high frequencies were far from acceptable; 15.8% following ALIF experienced postoperative radiculitis, while 23.8% undergoing XLIF sustained root/plexus deficits. CONCLUSIONS This review indicates that MIS (TLIF/PLIF/ALIF/XLIF) lumbar surgery resulted in a higher incidence of root injuries, radiculitis, or plexopathy versus open lumbar surgical techniques. Furthermore, even a cursory look at the XLIF data demonstrated the greater danger posed to neural tissue by this newest addition to the MIS lumbar surgical armamentariu. The latter should prompt us as spine surgeons to question why the XLIF procedure is still being offered to our patients?
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Epstein
- Department of Neurousrgery, Winthrop Neuroscience, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, New York, USA
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Magnetic Resonance Neurography of the Lumbar Plexus at the L4-L5 Disc: Development of a Preoperative Surgical Planning Tool for Lateral Lumbar Transpsoas Interbody Fusion (LLIF). Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2015; 40:942-7. [PMID: 25811264 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000000899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Observational study. OBJECTIVE To demonstrate use of magnetic resonance (MR) neurography to visualize the course of the lumbar plexus at the L4-L5 disc space. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Risk of injury to the lumbar plexus during lateral transpsoas approach for lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is significant. We describe a new technique for preoperative mapping using magnetic resonance neurography to directly visualize the course of the plexus relative to the L4-L5 disc space. METHODS Consecutive lumbar plexus MR neurograms (n=35 patients, 70 sides) were studied. Scans were obtained on a Siemens 3-Tesla Skyra magnetic resonance imaging scanner. T1- and T2-color-coded fusion maps were generated along with 3-dimensional models of the lumbosacral plexus with attention to the L4-L5 interspace. The position of the plexus and the shape of the psoas muscle at the L4-L5 interspace were evaluated and recorded. RESULTS Direct imaging of the lumbar plexus using MR neurography revealed a substantial variability in the position of the lumbar plexus relative to the L4-L5 disc space. The left-side plexus was identified in zone 2 (5.7%), zone 3 (54.3%), and zone 4 (40%) (P = 0.0014); on the right, zone 2 (8.6%), zone 3 (42.9%) or zone 4 (45.7%), and zone 5 (2.9%) (P = 0.01). Right-left symmetry was found in 18 of 35 subjects (51.4%) (P = 0.865). There was no association between the position of the plexus and the shape of the overlying psoas muscle identified. In patients with an elevated psoas (n = 12), the lumbar plexus was identified in zone 3 in 75% and 66% (left and right) compared with patients without psoas elevation (n = 23), 30.4% and 43.5% (left and right). CONCLUSION The course of the lumbosacral plexus traversing the L4-L5 disc space may be more variable than has been suggested by previous studies. Magnetic resonance neurography may provide a more reliable means of preoperatively identifying the plexus when compared with current methods. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
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