Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026
05:30
Surgical Approach and Complications of Stand-alone Lateral Trans-Psoas Interbody Fusion
Published on: February 14, 2025
Is laparoscopic approach to lumbar spine fusion worthwhile?
N Katkhouda1, G M Campos, E Mavor
1Department of Surgery, University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA.
American Journal of Surgery
|February 12, 2000
Summary
Laparoscopic lumbar fusion for single-level degenerative disc disease is safe and effective. However, multiple-level laparoscopic fusion shows high morbidity and is not recommended currently.
Area of Science:
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
- Spinal Fusion Techniques
- Degenerative Disc Disease Management
Background:
- Laparoscopic lumbar spine fusion is a novel surgical approach.
- Evaluating its safety and efficacy for degenerative disc disease is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic lumbar fusion.
- To compare single-level versus multiple-level procedures.
- To compare laparoscopic multiple-level fusion with open techniques.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 24 consecutive laparoscopic interbody lumbar fusions.
- Comparison of 18 single-level with 6 multiple-level laparoscopic procedures.
- Comparison of multiple-level laparoscopic with 12 open lumbar fusions.
Main Results:
- 20 procedures completed laparoscopically; 3 conversions due to iliac vein lacerations and 1 mesenteric tear.
- Single-level laparoscopic fusion demonstrated lower morbidity (22% vs. 83%), shorter hospital stay (2 vs. 10 days), and higher fusion rates (88% vs. 50%) than multiple-level.
- Multiple-level laparoscopic fusion outcomes were inferior to matched open procedures.
Conclusions:
- Laparoscopic single-level fusion (L5-S1) is a safe, minimally invasive option.
- High morbidity associated with multiple-level laparoscopic approaches precludes recommendation at this time.
