56 Open Anterior Spinal Surgery in Adult Spinal Deformities

Anton Jorgensen and Robert W. Gaines

Abstract

The anterior approach for lumbar and thoracolumbar spinal pathology allows direct access to pathologic vertebral body lesions and fractures and provides releases to scoliotic deformities, improving deformity correction and arthrodesis. Typically, the thoracic spine is approached from the right chest (left lateral decubitus position) and the thoracolumbar and upper lumbar spine is approached from the left side (right lateral decubitus or oblique position). However, many lesions can be addressed from either left or right side. Despite advancements inc the minimal invasive approaches to the anterior spine, knowledge of these open anterior spinal approaches can provide valuable options for the spinal deformity surgeon.

Key words

anterior spine surgery - vertebral osteomyelitis - burst fractures - retroperitoneal approach - anterior release - anterior column support

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