Lateral approach to the lumbar spine: The utility of an access surgeon.

Publication/Presentation Date

1-1-2023

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Lateral lumbar interbody fusions (LLIFs) utilize a retroperitoneal approach that avoids the intraperitoneal organs and manipulation of the anterior vasculature encountered in anterior approaches to the lumbar spine. The approach was championed by spinal surgeons; however, general/vasculature surgeons may be more comfortable with the approach.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to compare short-term outcomes following LLIF procedures based on whether a spine surgeon or access surgeon performed the approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively identified all one- to two-level LLIFs at a tertiary care center from 2011 to 2021 for degenerative spine disease. Patients were divided into groups based on whether a spine surgeon or general surgeon performed the surgical approach. The electronic medical record was reviewed for hospital readmissions and complication rates.

RESULTS: We identified 239 patients; of which 177 had approaches performed by spine surgeons and 62 by general surgeons. The spine surgeon group had fewer levels with posterior instrumentation (1.40 vs. 2.00;

CONCLUSION: Similar outcomes may be seen regardless of whether a spine or access surgeon performs the approach for an LLIF.

Volume

14

Issue

3

First Page

281

Last Page

287

ISSN

0974-8237

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

PubMedID

37860021

Department(s)

Administration and Leadership

Document Type

Article

Share

COinS