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Introduction: Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for loss of productivity. Herniated lumbar discs can often cause muscle weakness, reduced motor function, and change in walking capacity including foot drop and gait abnormalities like steppage gait. Case Report: Here, we present the case report of a 52-year-old shopkeeper who had been suffering from low back pain for 5 years along with a steppage gait since childhood, which had grossly affected his business as well as his quality of life. The patient did not want a surgical procedure. Conclusion: Given these conditions, we opined that minimally invasive pain and spine intervention procedures like transforaminal epidural neuroplasty along with cooled radiofrequency ablation of medial branches can be effective in managing back pain as well as improving the quality of life.

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BACKGROUND: Large spacers offer numerous advantages such as higher fusion rates and lower subsidence rates. However, due to the anatomical constraints of the approach, the use of large spacers in biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion(BE-TLIF) necessitates an additional incision and special instruments for spacer implantation leading to less frequent use. METHODS: This study has refined several techniques within BE-TLIF. We insert the cage and impact the cage transverse with a special design instrument in the same working portal. This allows for the use of large spacers during BE-TLIF procedures without the need for an auxiliary cage-inserting incision. CONCLUSION: The technique is a straightforward, safe, and minimally invasive method for inserting large cages in the treatment of lumbar instability.

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Introduction Although transforaminal interbody fusion (TLIF) and anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) combined with posterior fusion (AP) have similar fusion rates, it is unclear if choice of approach has an impact on post-operative complications. Research question Is the incidence of residual leg and/or back pain requiring additional treatment after one- or two-level TLIF and AP similar? Material and methods Adult patients who underwent one- or two-level TLIF or AP for degenerative pathology were identified and matched using age, sex, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), insurance status, smoking status, revision and number of levels fused. The incidence of radicular leg and back pain requiring emergency department visit/readmission or same level surgical intervention was compared between the two groups. Results Of the 319 TLIF and 288 AP cases, 119 cases in each cohort were matched. TLIF patients had shorter operative times (203 min vs 258 min, P<0.001) and hospital stays than the AP patients (3.76 days vs 4.98 days, P<0.001). The incidence of residual leg pain (7 vs 5, P=0.769) and back pain (13 vs 15, P=0.841) was similar between the two groups. Except for constipation, which was more common in the AP group, the incidence of complications was similar between the two groups. Conclusions Patients undergoing one- or two-level TLIF showed shorter operative time and hospital stay compared with those undergoing AP. The incidence of leg radiculopathy and back pain was similar between the two groups. Surgeons should consider these findings as part of the decision-making process regarding which approach to use in patients requiring a lumbar interbody fusion.

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OBJECTIVES: There is a high risk of nerve root injury during endoscopic-assisted transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (Endo-TLIF). This study used computed tomography (CT) imaging to assess the relationship between the exiting nerve root and its surroundings, and the corresponding intervertebral disc. We also measured the approximate position and angle for the placement of the working cannula to reduce the risk of nerve root injury during Endo-TLIF procedures in the Chinese population. METHODS: This retrospective study was conducted at our institution between December 2021 and December 2022. A total of 115 patients suffering from low back pain were recruited for the study. For each participant, three-dimensional (3D) vertebral models of the lumbar segments from L3 to S1 were constructed based on their CT images. The nerve root-disc distance, cannula insertion bypass distance and angle, foraminal height and width, exiting nerve root height, and nerve root-pedicle distance were measured. A paired t-test was used to compare measurements between the left and right sides, while inter- and intraobserver reproducibility was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS: From L3/4 to L5/S1 segments, the ideal cannula insertion distance range was 37.51 ± 4.91-120.38 ± 37.71 mm at L3/4; 42.38 ± 5.29-116.25 ± 27.22 mm at L4/5; and 37.78 ± 4.86-69.26 ± 12.64 mm at L5/S1. The appropriate cannula insertion angle range was 30.86° ± 5.05°-62.59° ± 6.66° at L3/4; 34.30° ± 4.73°-60.88° ± 7.34° at L4/5; and 35.89° ± 4.18°-47.65° ± 7.38° at L5/S1. The height of the intervertebral foramen (IVF) gradually decreased, and the width steadily increased. The exiting nerve root height and the nerve root-pedicle distance slightly decreased caudally. CONCLUSION: From L3/4 to L5/S1, the range of working cannula insertion distance and angle gradually decreased, and the exiting nerve root height occupying the IVF gradually increased. Our measurement can reduce the risk of nerve root injury caused by inserting the working cannula during Endo-TLIF.

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Background: Transforaminal anterior release (TFAR) is a technical extension of the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) procedure with deliberate release of the anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL). Methods: In a retrospective, single-center observational cohort study, consecutive adult patients undergoing TLIF surgery at L4/L5 and/or L5/S1 between 01/2018 and 12/2022 for degenerative disc disease or deformity were considered. The TFAR group (with ALL release) was compared to a standard TLIF group (without ALL release), matched in a 1:3 ratio. Uni- and multivariable logistic regression models were built to estimate the likelihood of any adverse event (AE), reoperation, and excellent/good clinical outcome at 12 months. Results: Of 438 patients, 18 undergoing TFAR were matched to 53 undergoing standard TLIF. TFAR procedures were frequently part of extensive, anterior-posterior or multilevel fusion procedures with longer surgery time and higher blood loss. The rates of intraoperative surgical AEs were similar (16.7 vs. 11.3%, p=.789). The rates and severities of surgical AEs, as well as reoperation rates and clinical outcomes were similar at time of discharge, 90 days, and 12 months postoperatively (all p>.05). TFAR allowed for an increase in total lumbar lordosis of 16.1° and in lumbar lordosis between L4 and S1 of 16.3° at discharge, which was maintained during follow-up. In both the uni- and multivariable models, patients undergoing TFAR were as likely as patients undergoing standard TLIF to experience any AE (adjusted OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.21-2.94), any reoperation (aOR 0.46, 95% CI 0.11-1.90) or excellent/good clinical outcome at 12 months (aOR 2.01, 95% CI 0.52-7.74). Conclusions: The TFAR technique has a safety profile which is comparable to the standard TLIF procedure, but it allows for a greater restoration of lumbar lordosis at L4-S1. We suggest considering the TFAR technique in selected patients with sagittal imbalance and mobile segments for restoration of lumbar lordosis.

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Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injection (CTFESI) for the treatment of unilateral cervical radicular pain. Design: Single-group prospective cohort study. Methods: Outcomes included ≥50% reductions in Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for arm pain, ≥30% Neck Disability Index (NDI-5) improvement, health-related quality of life (EQ-5D), global improvement (PGIC), personal goal achievement (COMBI), Chronic Pain Sleep Index (CPSI), and healthcare utilization at one, three, six, and 12 months. Data analysis included descriptive statistics with the calculations of 95% confidence intervals (CIs), contingency table analysis, and multilevel logistic regression (LR) analysis, including a worst-case (WC) sensitivity analysis in which missing data were treated as treatment failure. Participants who were treated surgically were considered failures in the categorical analyses. Results: 33 consecutively enrolled participants (63.6% females, 51.2 ± 12.2 years of age, BMI 28.3 ± 4.5 kg/m2) were analyzed. Success rates for ≥50% reduction in NRS for arm pain at one, three, six and 12 months were 57.6% (95% CI 40.8-72.8%), 71.9% (95% CI 54.6-84.4%), 64.5% (95% CI 46.9-78.9%), and 64.5% (95% CI 46.9-78.9%). Success rates for ≥30% improvement in NDI-5 were 60.6% (95% CI 43.7-75.3%), 68.8% (95% CI 51.4-82.0%), 61.3% (95% CI 43.8-76.3%), and 71.0% (95% CI 53.4-83.9%). In WC analysis, success rates for ≥50% arm NRS and NDI-5 were 0-4.3% lower between 1 and 12 months. PGIC scores were at least "much improved" or "very much improved," in 48.4-65.6% of participants between 1 and 12 months. 6.1%, 6.1%, and 3.0% had one, two, or three repeat injections, respectively. 18.2% of participants underwent surgery by 12 months. Participants showed significant improvements in arm NRS and NDI-5 after treatment (p < 0.05), multilevel logistic regression models showed no significant decline in improvements across the follow-up time points (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in pain and disability were observed after CTFESI for up to 12 months in individuals with unilateral cervical radicular pain.

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OBJECTIVE: Prior studies investigating the use of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) for treatment of degenerative lumbar conditions and concomitant sagittal deformity have not stratified patients by preoperative pelvic incidence (PI)-lumbar lordosis (LL) mismatch, which is the earliest parameter to deteriorate in mild sagittal deformity. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the impact of preoperative PI-LL mismatch on clinical outcomes and sagittal balance restoration among patients undergoing MI-TLIF for degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS). METHODS: Consecutive adult patients undergoing primary 1-level MI-TLIF between April 2017 and April 2022 for DS with ≥ 6 months radiographic follow-up were included. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) included the Oswestry Disability Index, visual analog scale (VAS), 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System at preoperative, early postoperative (< 6 months), and late postoperative (≥ 6 months) time points. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for PROMs was also evaluated. Radiographic parameters included PI, LL, pelvic tilt (PT), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Patients were categorized into balanced and unbalanced groups based on preoperative PI-LL mismatch according to age-adjusted alignment goals. Changes in radiographic parameters and PROMs were evaluated. RESULTS: Eighty patients were included (L4-5 82.5%, grade I spondylolisthesis 82.5%, unbalanced 58.8%). Mean clinical and radiographic follow-up were 17.0 and 8.3 months, respectively. The average preoperative PI-LL was 18.8° in the unbalanced group and -3.3° in the balanced group. Patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch had significantly worse preoperative PT (26.2° vs 16.4°, p < 0.001) and SVA (53.2 vs 9.0 mm, p = 0.001) compared with balanced patients. Patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch also showed significantly worse PI-LL (16.0° vs 0.54°, p < 0.001), PT (25.9° vs 18.7°, p < 0.001), and SVA (49.4 vs 22.8 mm, p = 0.013) at long-term follow-up. No significant radiographic improvement was observed among unbalanced patients. All patients demonstrated significant improvements in all PROMs (p < 0.05) except for SF-12 mental component score. Achievement of MCID for VAS back score was significantly greater among patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch (85.7% vs 65.5%, p = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS: Although 1-level MI-TLIF did not restore sagittal alignment in patients with preoperative PI-LL mismatch, patients presenting with DS can expect significant improvement in PROMs following 1-level MI-TLIF regardless of preoperative alignment or extent of correction. Thus, attaining good clinical outcomes in patients with mild sagittal imbalance may not require addressing imbalance directly.

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BACKGROUND: In recent developments, full endoscopic and unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) spine surgery have emerged to aid the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) procedure. Yet, both approaches present a challenge due to limited space for cage insertion, potentially leading to complications such as cage subsidence or nonfusion in long-term assessments. Utilizing double cages may mitigate these concerns. This paper presents a unique case in which a patient successfully underwent computed tomography (CT) navigation-guided UBE-TLIF with 2 converging cages, highlighting the potential benefits and feasibility of this innovative approach. OBSERVATIONS: A 59-year-old female diagnosed with degenerative spondylolisthesis at the L4-5 level underwent a UBE-TLIF. The operation is detailed step by step and supported by illustrative figures and surgical videos. Postsurgery results revealed a significant improvement in the patient's condition, with the visual analog scale score decreasing from 7 to 3 on the first day, leading to a satisfaction rate of 90% at the last follow-up. LESSONS: Utilizing endoscopic visualization complemented by contrast medium has substantially elevated the quality of disc preparation. From their observations, the authors affirm that the integration of intraoperative CT navigation systems significantly augments safety and pinpoint accuracy in UBE-TLIF procedures. The strategy of employing 2 converging cages through a unilateral technique stands as a practical solution, potentially optimizing the fusion outcomes of UBE-TLIF surgery. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE23512.

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BACKGROUND: Transforaminal epidural injections (TEI) can alleviate symptoms and help to maintain physical functioning and quality of life in patients with lumbar radicular pain. We aim to develop a prediction model for patient outcome after TEI in patients suffering from unilateral lumbar radicular pain due to lumbar disc herniation (LDH) or single-level spinal stenosis (LSS). The secondary aim is to estimate short-term patient outcome differences between LDH and LSS patients, the association between psychological variables and patient outcome, the rate of additional injections, surgery and complications, and to explore the short-term cost-effectiveness of TEI. METHODS: This study is designed as a multi-centre, observational, prospective cohort study in two large regional hospitals in the Netherlands. Patients diagnosed with unilateral lumbar radicular pain secondary to LDH or LSS and congruent with MRI findings, who are referred for TEI along usual care pathways, are eligible for study participation. A total of 388 patients with LDH or LSS will be included. A pre-defined set of demographic, clinical and radiological variables will be used as the predictors in the model. The primary outcome measure is the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for leg pain. Secondary outcome measures include back pain, physical functioning, perceived recovery, pain coping strategies, anxiety and depression and use of analgesics and physical therapy. Patients will be evaluated at baseline, 2 weeks and 6 weeks after treatment. NRS leg pain and Likert perceived recovery data will be used as the dependent variables in a generalized linear mixed model for prediction of TEI outcome, with internal validation of performance (explained variation) by bootstrap resampling. Cost-effectiveness for a period of 6 weeks prior to and after treatment will be performed with decision-analytic modelling. DISCUSSION: Patients with severe lumbar radicular pain often request additional treatment when conservative care is insufficient. TEI can offer relief of symptoms. Currently, it is not possible to predict responsiveness to this treatment for individual patients. This study is designed to explore predictors that can differentiate between patients that will and will not have a positive outcome after TEI. This information may support treatment strategies for this patient group. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov database under registry number NCT04540068 on September 1, 2020.

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BACKGROUND: Expandable transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) cages could offer an alternative to anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF). Bilateral cage insertion enhances endplate coverage, potentially improving stability and fusion rates and maximizing segmental lordosis. This study aims to compare the biomechanical properties of bilateral expandable TLIF cages to ALIF cages using finite element modeling. METHODS: We used a validated 3-dimensional finite element model of the lumbar spine. ALIF and TLIF cages were created based on available product data. Our focus was on analyzing spinal motion in the sagittal plane, evaluating forces transmitted through the vertebrae, and comparing an ALIF model with various TLIF cage models. RESULTS: The largest TLIF cage model exhibited a 407.9% increase in flexion motion and a 42.1% decrease in extension motion compared with the ALIF cage. The second largest TLIF cages resulted in more flexion motion and less extension motion compared with ALIF, while smaller cages were inferior to ALIF. ALIF cages were associated with increased adjacent segment motion compared with TLIF cages, primarily in extension. Endplate stress analysis revealed higher stress in the ALIF cage model with a more uniform stress distribution. CONCLUSION: ALIF cages excel in stabilizing L5 to S1 during flexion, while largest TLIF cages offer superior stability in extension. Large bilateral TLIF cages may provide biomechanical stability comparable to ALIF, especially in extension and could potentially reduce the risk of adjacent segment disease with lower adjacent segment motion.

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PURPOSE: The primary objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the combined spinous process-splitting approach with a Wiltse (SPSW) approach, the combined conventional approach with a Wiltse (CW) approach, and the conventional open (CO) approach in unilateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). METHODS: The clinical outcomes were assessed, and intraoperative data and complications were collected. Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores for low back pain and leg pain, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ) scores for evaluating functions of the lumbar spine and health-related quality of life, and the modified MacNab standard for assessing satisfaction were analyzed. Radiographic outcomes included disc space height, segmental lordosis, interbody fusion assessment, and the rate of muscle atrophy of the multifidus and the erector spinae muscles. RESULTS: Among the three groups, the SPSW group exhibited the shortest operation and drain retention time, lowest intraoperative blood loss, and minimal postoperative blood loss. Notably, the SPSW group displayed the highest level of social life function based on the JOABPEQ, and the highest level of patient satisfaction according to the modified MacNab Criteria, along with the lowest rate of muscle atrophy. CONCLUSION: All the SPSW, CW, and CO approach TLIF procedures achieved overall satisfactory effects of decompression and fusion for lumbar degenerative diseases. The SPSW approach procedure appears to be associated with the smallest surgical trauma and highest satisfaction because of reducing iatrogenic injury of the paraspinal muscles.

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OBJECTIVE: To explore the safety and effectiveness of the robot-assisted system for transforaminal percutaneous endoscopic in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation with lumbar instability. METHODS: From October 2021 to March 2023, 26 patients with single-segment lumbar disc herniation and lumbar spinal instability were treated with robot-assisted system for transforaminal percutaneous endoscopic. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, incision length, postoperative drainage volume, postoperative ambulation activity time, postoperative hospitalization time were record. The intervertebral space height and the lumbar lordosis angle before and after surgery were observed and compared. Pain level was evaluated using the visual analogue scale(VAS). The clinical efficacy was evaluated by Oswestry disability index(ODI). The interbody fusion was evaluated by Brantigan Steffee criteria. RESULTS: All patients successfully completed the operation, the operation time ranged form 105 to 109 min with an average of (150.8±24.1) min. Intraoperative blood loss ranged form 35 to 88 ml with an average of (55.5±16.4) ml. Incision length ranged form 1.4 to 3.5 cm with an average of (2.3±0.8) cm. Postoperative drainage volume ranged form 15 to 40 ml with an average of (28.5±7.8) ml. Postoperative ambulation time ranged form 15 to 30 h with an average of (22.8±4.5) h. Postoperative hospitalization time was 3 to 7 d with an average of (4.2±1.3) d. Total of 26 patients were followed up, the duration ranged from 12 to 16 months with an average of (14.0±1.3) months. The VAS and ODI at 1 week [(2.96±0.72) points, (41.63±4.79)%] and 12 months[(1.27±0.60) points, (13.11±2.45)%] were significantly different from those before surgery[(6.69±0.93) points, (59.12±5.92)%], P<0.01. The height of the intervertebral space (11.95±1.47) mm and lumbar lordosis (57.46±7.59)° at 12 months were significantly different from those before surgery [(6.67±1.20) mm, (44.08±7.79)°], P<0.01. At 12 months after surgery, all patients had no pedicle screw rupture or dislocation of the fusion cage, and the intervertebral fusion was successful. According to Brantigan-Steffee classification, 17 cases were grade D and 9 cases were grade E. CONCLUSION: Robot-assisted system for transforaminal percutaneous endoscopic for the treatment of single-segment lumbar disc herniation with lumbar instability improved the accuracy and safety of the operation, and the clinical effect of early follow-up is accurate.

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OBJECTIVE: We describe a novel yet simple training exercise for residents who are being introduced to endoscopic spine surgery. METHODS: Prior to residents training on the endoscopic interlaminar approach, the course faculty performed an endoscopic transforaminal approach and inserted a small piece of a surgical glove into the ventral epidural space of a cadaveric torso. The transforaminal approach did not alter the anatomy of the interlaminar approach, so the residents were able to practice as if it were a de novo situation. Placing the small "lesion" provided an exercise to confirm the residents were able to safely access the area and provided practice for them to carefully grasp the "lesion" and remove it. Prior to resident training on the endoscopic transforaminal approach, the course faculty utilized an interlaminar approach to place the "lesion." A questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale of agreement was completed by the residents to assess their experience with the training exercise. RESULTS: Five residents attended the cadaver lab, and 100% strongly agreed that the cadaver lab provided a realistic representation of the procedure demonstrated, the "lesion" removal added to their educational experience, and they were overall satisfied with the educational session. CONCLUSIONS: One of the lessons learned with this exercise that we will consider in future courses would be to place a radiodense "lesion" that could be visualized on fluoroscopy and serve as a radiologic target to find. This can help guide the trainee in knowing where to search if the "lesion" is more difficult to find.

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PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical outcomes of transforaminal lumbar endoscopic discectomy (TLED) in patients with L5-S1 lumbar disc herniation (LDH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five consecutive individuals with diagnosed foraminal/extraforaminal L5-S1 LDH were included in this study. All patients underwent TLED, being subsequently evaluated in a 2-year follow-up period. Assessment was performed preoperatively and at 6 weeks and 3, 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Visual Analogue Scale (distinctly applied for lower limb - VAS-LP and low back - VAS-BP pain) and Short-Form 36 (SF-36) Medical Health Survey Questionnaire were implemented to assess pain and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of enrolled individuals, respectively. RESULTS: No major perioperative complications were observed. Recorded values of all studied indices were demonstrated to feature a clinically and statistically significant amelioration at 6 weeks, presenting lesser improvement at 3 months with subsequent stabilisation. VAS-LP and VAS-BP values were displayed to reach a plateau in 6 months postoperatively, whereas all parameters of SF-36 continued to present a statistically significant improvement until the end of follow-up at 2 years. CONCLUSIONS: TLED represent a safe and efficient technique in terms of diminishing perceived pain and improving HRQoL in patients with L5-S1 LDHs. However, specific patient- and technique-related circumstances on the ground of low surgical experience may limit its effectiveness in these patients.

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Background: To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of modified mini-open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (mMO-TLIF) via posterior midline incision for "targeted limited dissection" versus minimal invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) via Wiltse approach in lumbar degenerative diseases. Methods: A total of 60 consecutive patients in our center from January 2019 to March 2020 were enrolled, including 30 patients who were treated with mMO-TLIF via posterior midline incision and 30 treated with MIS-TLIF through the Wiltse approach. Perioperative parameters were recorded. The questionnaires of Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analogue Score (VAS) were conducted before the operation and after the operation (3 days, 1 week, and 2 years). CT and MRI radiological outcomes were evaluated before the operation and at a 2-year follow-up. Results: There were no significant differences in the general data, gender, age, and BMI between the two groups. All patients were successfully operated without intraoperative complications. There were significant differences between the two groups in the operation time (p < 0.001) and intraoperative bleeding (p < 0.05). There was no difference in ODI and VAS scores between groups pre- and post-operatively, but they were both significantly improved compared to those before the operation (p < 0.01). At a 2-year follow-up, the paraspinal muscle atrophy and fat infiltration were increased comparing to pre-operation, but the difference was also not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In addition, both the two groups' fusion rates were more than 90% at a 2-year follow-up, however, no difference was detected between the two groups. Conclusion: mMO-TLIF via midline incision for "targeted limited dissection" could achieve similar clinical and radiological outcomes as MIS-TLIF for lumbar degenerative disease.

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OBJECTIVE: Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and/or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), referred to as "PLIF/TLIF," is a commonly performed operation for lumbar spondylolisthesis. Its long-term cost-effectiveness has not been well described. The aim of this study was to determine the 5-year cost-effectiveness of PLIF/TLIF for grade 1 degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis using prospective data collected from the multicenter Quality Outcomes Database (QOD). METHODS: Patients enrolled in the prospective, multicenter QOD grade 1 lumbar spondylolisthesis module were included if they underwent single-stage PLIF/TLIF. EQ-5D scores at baseline, 3 months, 12 months, 24 months, 36 months, and 60 months were used to calculate gains in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) associated with surgery relative to preoperative baseline. Healthcare-related costs associated with the index surgery and related reoperations were calculated using Medicare reimbursement-based cost estimates and validated using price transparency diagnosis-related group (DRG) charges and Medicare charge-to-cost ratios (CCRs). Cost per QALY gained over 60 months postoperatively was assessed. RESULTS: Across 12 surgical centers, 385 patients were identified. The mean patient age was 60.2 (95% CI 59.1-61.3) years, and 38% of patients were male. The reoperation rate was 5.7%. DRG 460 cost estimates were stable between our Medicare reimbursement-based models and the CCR-based model, validating the focus on Medicare reimbursement. Across the entire cohort, the mean QALY gain at 60 months postoperatively was 1.07 (95% CI 0.97-1.18), and the mean cost of PLIF/TLIF was $31,634. PLIF/TLIF was associated with a mean 60-month cost per QALY gained of $29,511. Among patients who did not undergo reoperation (n = 363), the mean 60-month QALY gain was 1.10 (95% CI 0.99-1.20), and cost per QALY gained was $27,591. Among those who underwent reoperation (n = 22), the mean 60-month QALY gain was 0.68 (95% CI 0.21-1.15), and the cost per QALY gained was $80,580. CONCLUSIONS: PLIF/TLIF for degenerative grade 1 lumbar spondylolisthesis was associated with a mean 60-month cost per QALY gained of $29,511 with Medicare fees. This is far below the well-established societal willingness-to-pay threshold of $100,000, suggesting long-term cost-effectiveness. PLIF/TLIF remains cost-effective for patients who undergo reoperation.

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Introduction The unilateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) signifies a different surgical method, circumventing both the anterior method and the method via the spinal canal. Due to the shortage of literature available for clinical outcomes and consequences post-TLIF, we undertook the current study to assess the TLIF technique's clinical outcomes among patients with low back pain showing type 1 Modic changes on MRI. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2019 and March 2021. All patients included in the study had Modic type 1 change and disabling low back pain as the main complaint and/or leg pain. Data were collected on age, body mass index (BMI), gender, and other risk factors like diabetes mellitus, steroid use, and smoking. Pain intensity was evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS) before and after surgery. A radiographic evaluation was also performed. Pre and post-operative pain scores and differences in disc height were assessed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results The mean length of stay in the hospital was 4.3±1.61. The mean pre-operative lower back pain score was 8.78±0.79. The mean post-operative score was substantially lowered to 0.83±0.7. There was a significant difference between pre- and post-operative lumbar pain (p-value < 0.001). There was a significant increase in mean disc height from pre-operative (7.14 mm) to post-operative (11.02 mm) and also at one year (10.21 mm) with a p-value of <0.001. Of the patients, 82.14% did not have any complications, and 3.57% each had either delayed wound healing without any infection or transient post-operative radiculopathy that improved in six weeks. Conclusion TLIF procedure can be considered safe to provide anterior and posterior column support by adopting a unilateral posterior approach. The outcomes were favorable in terms of no prolonged length of stay, less blood loss, no mortality, reduction in the severity of pain, and improvement in disc height. However, the appropriate selection of patients for this technique is pivotal for the success of the procedure.

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BACKGROUND: As an emerging technology in robot-assisted (RA) surgery, the potential benefits of its application in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) lack substantial support from current evidence. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate whether the RA TLIF is superior to FG TLIF in the treatment of lumbar degenerative disease. METHODS: We systematically reviewed studies comparing RA versus FG TLIF for lumbar degenerative diseases through July 2022 by searching PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL (EBSCO), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang, VIP, and the Cochrane Library, as well as the references of published review articles. Both cohort studies (CSs) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Evaluation criteria included the accuracy of percutaneous pedicle screw placement, proximal facet joint violation (FJV), radiation exposure, duration of surgery, estimated blood loss (EBL), and surgical revision. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias and ROBINS-I Tool. Random-effects models were used, and the standardized mean difference (SMD) was employed as the effect measure. We conducted subgroup analyses based on surgical type, the specific robot system used, and the study design. Two investigators independently screened abstracts and full-text articles, and the certainty of evidence was graded using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach. RESULTS: Our search identified 539 articles, of which 21 met the inclusion criteria for quantitative analysis. Meta-analysis revealed that RA had 1.03-folds higher "clinically acceptable" accuracy than FG (RR: 1.0382, 95% CI: 1.0273-1.0493). And RA had 1.12-folds higher "perfect" accuracy than FG group (RR: 1.1167, 95% CI: 1.0726-1.1626). In the case of proximal FJV, our results indicate a 74% reduction in occurrences for patients undergoing RA pedicle screw placement compared to those in the FG group (RR: 0.2606, 95%CI: 0.2063- 0.3293). Seventeen CSs and two RCTs reported the duration of time. The results of CSs suggest that there is no significant difference between RA and FG group (SMD: 0.1111, 95%CI: -0.391-0.6131), but the results of RCTs suggest that the patients who underwent RA-TLIF need more surgery time than FG (SMD: 3.7213, 95%CI: 3.0756-4.3669). Sixteen CSs and two RCTs reported the EBL. The results suggest that the patients who underwent RA pedicle screw placement had fewer EBL than FG group (CSs: SMD: -1.9151, 95%CI: -3.1265-0.7036, RCTs: SMD: -5.9010, 95%CI: -8.7238-3.0782). For radiation exposure, the results of CSs suggest that there is no significant difference in radiation time between RA and FG group (SMD: -0.5256, 95%CI: -1.4357-0.3845), but the patients who underwent RA pedicle screw placement had fewer radiation dose than FG group (SMD: -2.2682, 95%CI: -3.1953-1.3411). And four CSs and one RCT reported the number of revision case. The results of CSs suggest that there is no significant difference in the number of revision case between RA and FG group (RR: 0.4087,95% CI 0.1592-1.0495). Our findings are limited by the residual heterogeneity of the included studies, which may limit the interpretation of the results. CONCLUSION: In TLIF, RA technology exhibits enhanced precision in pedicle screw placement when compared to FG methods. This accuracy contributes to advantages such as the protection of adjacent facet joints and reductions in intraoperative radiation dosage and blood loss. However, the longer preoperative preparation time associated with RA procedures results in comparable surgical duration and radiation time to FG techniques. Presently, FG screw placement remains the predominant approach, with clinical surgeons possessing greater proficiency in its application. Consequently, the integration of RA into TLIF surgery may not be considered the optimal choice. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42023441600.

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OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to 1) define the incidence of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) interbody subsidence; 2) determine the relative importance of preoperative and intraoperative patient- and instrumentation-specific risk factors predictive of postoperative subsidence using CT-based assessment; and 3) determine the impact of TLIF subsidence on postoperative complications and fusion rates. METHODS: All adult patients who underwent one- or two-level TLIF for lumbar degenerative conditions at a multi-institutional academic center between 2017 and 2019 were retrospectively identified. Patients with traumatic injury, infection, malignancy, previous fusion at the index level, combined anterior-posterior procedures, surgery with greater than two TLIF levels, or incomplete follow-up were excluded. Interbody subsidence at the superior and inferior endplates of each TLIF level was directly measured on the endplate-facing surface of both coronal and sagittal CT scans obtained greater than 6 months postoperatively. Patients were grouped based on the maximum subsidence at each operative level classified as mild, moderate, or severe based on previously documented < 2-mm, 2- to 4-mm, and ≥ 4-mm thresholds, respectively. Univariate and regression analyses compared patient demographics, medical comorbidities, preoperative bone quality, surgical factors including interbody cage parameters, and fusion and complication rates across subsidence groups. RESULTS: A total of 67 patients with 85 unique fusion levels met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Overall, 28% of levels exhibited moderate subsidence and 35% showed severe subsidence after TLIF with no significant difference in the superior and inferior endplate subsidence. Moderate (≥ 2-mm) and severe (≥ 4-mm) subsidence were significantly associated with decreases in cage surface area and Taillard index as well as interbody cages with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material and sawtooth surface geometry. Severe subsidence was also significantly associated with taller preoperative disc spaces, decreased vertebral Hounsfield units (HU), the absence of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) use, and smooth cage surfaces. Regression analysis revealed decreases in Taillard index, cage surface area, and HU, and the absence of BMP use predicted subsidence. Severe subsidence was found to be a predictor of pseudarthrosis but was not significantly associated with revision surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Patient-level risk factors for TLIF subsidence included decreased HU and increased preoperative disc height. Intraoperative risk factors for TLIF subsidence were decreased cage surface area, PEEK cage material, bullet cages, posterior cage positioning, smooth cage surfaces, and sawtooth surface designs. Severe subsidence predicted TLIF pseudarthrosis; however, the causality of this relationship remains unclear.