Fusion Rates of Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion Using Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2

Area of Science:

• Spine surgery
• Orthopedics
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is a common spinal procedure.
• Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is increasingly used as a bone graft substitute in LLIF.
• Limited data exists on fusion rates and complications associated with rhBMP-2 in LLIF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate fusion rates in one- and two-level LLIF procedures utilizing rhBMP-2.
• To assess the relationship between spinal fixation and fusion success in LLIF with rhBMP-2.
• To determine the incidence of BMP-related complications in LLIF.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of a spine registry cohort of 93 patients undergoing LLIF with rhBMP-2.
• Minimum one-year follow-up including computed tomography (CT) scans for fusion assessment.
• Data collected on patient demographics, instrumentation, and complications.

Main Results:

• Complete fusion rates were 92% for one-level LLIF and 86% for two-level LLIF.
• Incomplete or indeterminate fusion was more common in cases without spinal fixation.
• No BMP-related complications were explicitly detailed in the results.

Conclusions:

• rhBMP-2 demonstrates high fusion rates in LLIF, suggesting its viability as an allograft alternative.
• Adequate spinal fixation is crucial for achieving optimal fusion rates and minimizing pseudarthrosis in LLIF with rhBMP-2.
• Further research may be warranted to explore BMP-related complications in larger cohorts.