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Updated: Dec 18, 2025

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Uniportal Full Endoscopic Posterolateral Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Published on: June 6, 2025
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Awake Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Technical Note
Alexander J Butler1, G Damian Brusko2, Michael Y Wang3
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami Hospital, 1400 N.W. 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33136 USA.
Summary
Endoscopic minimally invasive surgery (MIS) spinal fusion without general anesthesia offers rapid recovery and improved outcomes. This technique shows a low complication rate and no pseudarthrosis in early results.
Area of Science:
- Spine surgery
- Minimally invasive techniques
- Endoscopic procedures
Background:
- Modern spinal fusion advances reduce surgical impact.
- Endoscopy enhances minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for spinal fusion.
- Minimizing surgical intervention is a key goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- Describe a novel endoscopic MIS spinal fusion technique.
- Detail technical considerations and adaptations.
- Present refined anesthetic protocols for awake surgery.
Main Methods:
- Endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) via a small portal.
- Patients remain awake under light conscious sedation.
- Surgeon feedback and enhanced recovery are facilitated.
Main Results:
- Summarizes outcomes from the first 100 cases.
- Characterized by short hospital stays and low complication rates.
- Significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes with no pseudarthrosis at 1 year.
Conclusions:
- Presents a refined endoscopic MIS spinal fusion technique without general anesthesia.
- Offers recommendations for successful implementation.
- Highlights the potential for improved patient recovery and outcomes.

