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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
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Uniportal Full Endoscopic Posterolateral Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Published on: June 6, 2025
Full-Endoscopic Trans-Kambin Triangle Lumbar Interbody Fusion : Surgical Technique
Takayuki Kitahara1, Masatoshi Morimoto2, Seiya Watanabe3
1Department of Orthopedics, Tokushima University Graduate School; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|July 20, 2026
Summary
This protocol details a reproducible method for full-endoscopic trans-Kambin triangle lumbar interbody fusion (KLIF). KLIF offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional fusion, reducing soft tissue disruption and risks to nerves.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Background:
- Lumbar interbody fusion (LIF) treats spinal instability and stenosis.
- Lateral access LIF (OLIF, XLIF) risks psoas and lumbar plexus injury.
- KLIF provides an alternative lateral approach via Kambin's triangle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a reproducible protocol for full-endoscopic trans-Kambin triangle lumbar interbody fusion (KLIF).
- To establish KLIF as a safe and effective minimally invasive alternative for lumbar fusion.
Main Methods:
- Percutaneous pedicle screw insertion with a specific locking sequence.
- Endoscopic creation of a 12 mm safety aperture via partial ventral facetectomy.
- Insertion of an expandable cage to restore disc height.
Main Results:
- KLIF utilizes a facet-preserving approach, accessing the disc lateral to the superior articular process.
- Minimizes bleeding and dural tear risks compared to conventional TLIF.
- Generally allows for a drain-free postoperative course.
Conclusions:
- KLIF is a minimally invasive and safe strategy for lumbar fusion.
- This protocol standardizes KLIF, potentially increasing its adoption in spine surgery.
- Offers reduced soft tissue disruption for patients with degenerative lumbar conditions.
