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Seminars in Neurosurgery 2000; 11(2): 221-230
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-13230
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

CURRENT ROLE OF ANTERIOR LUMBAR INTERBODY FUSION IN LUMBAR SPINE DISORDERS

Mark R. McLaughlin1 , Regis W. Haid2  Jr. , Gerald E. Rodts2  Jr. , Jay S. Miller2
  • 1Neurosurgical and Neurological Group, Inc., Springfield, Massachusetts
  • 2Emory University Department of Neurosurgery and General Surgery and Crawford W. Long Hospital of Emory Healthcare, Atlanta, Georgia
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The number of patients with degenerative disease of the lumbar spine being treated with interbody fusion has increased dramatically over that last decade. A posterior exposure has been the primary approach of choice for neurosurgeons in the past, but, with the introduction of minimally invasive surgery, anterior techniques have become more popular. Although there are risks associated with the anterior technique, the advantages of this method over posterior lumbar interbody fusion are considerable. This article reviews the ``mini'' open anterior lumbar interbody fusion and emphasizes important lessons we have learned through our experience with our last sixty cases.

KEYWORD

Minimally invasive surgery - spinal fusion - threaded interbody fusion cages - lumbar spine

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