Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Single-Level, Stand-Alone LLIF Without Supplemental Posterior Fixation: A...

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to use a modified lateral lumbar approach developed by the authors for single-level lumbar decompression and interbody fusion using intervertebral implants. Materials and Methods: A total of 38 patients with single-level L1-L5 degenerative disc disease who underwent lumbar interbody fusion were included in this study. The procedure was performed using the modified lateral lumbar surgical approach. Clinical outcomes included the assessment of functional status using the Karnofsky Performance Scale and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), quality of life using the EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS), and pain intensity using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Preoperative and postoperative radiographic parameters assessed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were compared. Results: Significant improvement in functional status, quality of life, and pain reduction was observed in all patients. Radiographic outcomes also improved significantly. Mean disc height increased from 8.2 mm preoperatively to 12.2 mm postoperatively (p < 0.05). The cross-sectional area of the spinal canal increased significantly following surgery. Furthermore, a reduction in disc herniation width and enlargement of the intervertebral foramina were observed. No neurovascular complications occurred, and endplate injury with cage subsidence was noted in 5% of patients. Conclusions: Lateral lumbar discectomy and interbody fusion increase spinal canal area, enlarge the neuroforamina, and restore intervertebral disc height. Most patients experienced substantial functional improvement and pain reduction. No neurological or vascular complications were observed, which may be due to the modified approach. The confirmation of this hypothesis requires further research and a longer follow-up period.