Endoscopic Techniques for Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Principles and Context.

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
• Endoscopic Spinal Procedures
• Spinal Fusion Techniques

Background:

• Endoscopic spine surgery is advancing, making operations safer and less invasive.
• Lumbar interbody fusion (LIF) procedures have significantly benefited from endoscopic assistance.
• While variations exist, common principles unite endoscopic LIF techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolving landscape of endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (LIF) approaches.
• To present two illustrative cases of endoscopic transforaminal LIF.
• To enhance surgeon familiarity with current endoscopic LIF possibilities.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of endoscopic LIF procedures.
• Case study analysis of two endoscopic transforaminal LIF operations.
• Synthesis of common principles and emerging innovations in endoscopic LIF.

Main Results:

• Endoscopic LIF techniques are becoming increasingly refined and adopted.
• Two distinct cases of endoscopic transforaminal LIF were successfully performed.
• A review highlights the diversity and commonalities in current endoscopic LIF approaches.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic LIF represents a significant advancement in minimally invasive spine surgery.
• Continuous learning is essential for surgeons to master evolving endoscopic LIF techniques.
• The presented cases and review offer valuable insights for surgical practice.