Orthopaedic surgery
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Orthopaedic surgery · May 2013
Comparative StudyHybrid technique for posterior lumbar interbody fusion: a combination of open decompression and percutaneous pedicle screw fixation.
The authors describe a hybrid technique that involves a combination of open decompression and posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and percutaneously inserted pedicle screws. This technique allows performance of PLIF and decompression via a midline incision and approach without compromising operative time and visualization. Furthermore, compared to standard open decompression, this approach reduces post-operative wound pain because the small midline incision significantly reduces muscle trauma by obviating the need to dissect the paraspinal muscles off the facet joint complex and by avoiding posterolateral fusion, thus requiring limited lateral muscle dissection off the transverse processes. ⋯ The results of a prospective study comparing a standard open decompression and fusion technique for spondylolisthesis versus the minimally invasive hybrid technique are discussed. The minimally invasive technique resulted in shorter hospital stay, earlier mobilization and reduced postoperative narcotic usage. The long-term clinical outcomes were equivalent in the two groups.