Lumbar Interbody Fusions: Review of Uses, Techniques, and Complications

Lumbar interbody fusion is widely accepted as a useful tool for treating lumbar spinal pathology. Appropriately choosing the correct sized implant to decrease risk of subsidence, as well as choosing the correct approach for the vertebral level, maximizes chances of success. Interbody fusion allows for indirect decompression and can increase lumbar lordosis. There are multiple approaches to lumbar interbody fusion including: anterior, oblique, lateral, transforaminal and posterior. Patient specific and anatomic factors determine which is most appropriate.