The Open Neurosurgery Journal

2009, 2 : 8-13
Published online 2009 June 3. DOI: 10.2174/187652970090201008
Publisher ID: TONEUROSJ-2-8

Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Technical Note

Gabriel C. Tender and John K. Ratliff
Department of Neurosurgery, Louisiana State University, Health Science Center, 1542 Tulane Avenue New Orleans LA 70112, USA

ABSTRACT

Minimally invasive techniques for lumbar interbody fusion have become increasingly popular recently. A limitation of these procedures is the restricted field of view, which requires a thorough understanding of the three-dimensional spinal landmarks and appropriate technical skills. We outline the operative steps used in said cases and provide illustrative video and figures.

Keywords:

Low back pain, surgical approach, transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.