Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026
Lateral-PLIF for Lumbar Spinal Arthrodesis: A Detailed Step-By-Step Surgical Technique
Published on: January 23, 2026
Direct lateral access lumbar and thoracolumbar fusion: preliminary results
Pedro Berjano1, Massimo Balsano, Josip Buric
1IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy. pberjano@gmail.com
Purpose:
To describe the clinical outcomes and complications in a consecutive series of extreme lateral interbody fusion cases.
Methods:
Retrospective cohort review of 97 consecutive patients from three centers with minimum 6-month follow-up (mean 12 months). Functional status was evaluated by preoperative and last follow-up Oswestry Disability Index score. Leg and back pain were evaluated by visual analog scales. Complications were recorded and permanent complications and neurological impairment was actively investigated at last follow-up.
Results:
No permanent neurological impairment, vascular or visceral injuries were observed. Transient neurological symptoms presented in 7% of cases, all resolved within 1 month from surgery. Transient thigh discomfort was observed in 9%. Clinical success was recorded in 92% of cases.
Conclusions:
Extreme lateral interbody fusion is a safe and effective technique for anterior interbody fusion.
