Cadaveric Analysis of the Kambin's Triangle

Area of Science:

• Spinal surgery
• Anatomy
• Minimally invasive procedures

Background:

• Kambin's Triangle is a key anatomical landmark for posterolateral access in minimally invasive spinal surgery.
• This approach is utilized for epidural steroid injections and intervertebral disc access.
• No prior studies have quantified the dimensions of Kambin's Triangle.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the dimensions of Kambin's Triangle at lumbar levels (L1-L5).
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Kambin's Triangle as an access site for minimally invasive spinal surgery.

Main Methods:

• Measurements were performed bilaterally on lumbar spines (L1-L5) of two adult male cadavers.
• A Kirschner wire was used to access the disc space via Kambin's Triangle under fluoroscopic guidance.
• Open dissection followed to measure the triangle's borders and assess nerve and thecal sac integrity.

Main Results:

• Average triangle dimensions increased from L1-L2 to L4-L5, with areas ranging from 60 mm² to 108 mm².
• All procedures demonstrated successful wire placement into the disc space.
• No nerve injury or thecal sac violation was observed during dissection.

Conclusions:

• Kambin's Triangle provides a safe and effective access corridor for minimally invasive spinal surgery.
• Understanding its dimensions aids surgeons in safely navigating this space.
• This approach may facilitate the placement of interbody cages in minimally invasive procedures.