Iliac Crest Bone Graft: A Minimally Invasive Harvesting Technique

Typical sources for graft material utilized in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion include both autograft and allograft. Autograft is frequently utilized due to its theorized benefits in promoting fusion. During minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion, autograft is often obtained locally during the laminectomy and facetectomy. However, this locally obtained bone graft has exhibited questionable osteoconductive properties, often necessitating the addition of biologics to improve fusion rates. Iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) has previously been reported to be a safe and efficacious source for bone graft. Although ICBG has been noted to be an excellent material for facilitating fusion, concern for harvest site morbidity has substantially decreased its popularity. The purpose of this surgical technique is to provide a method of minimally invasive ICBG harvesting to potentially reduce the need for extra incisions, shorten operative times, and prevent postoperative graft site morbidity.