[Bio-mechanical evaluation of extreme lateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion].

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and post-operation stability of extreme lateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (E-TLIF) and other traditional surgical approach via bio-mechanical test. METHODS: There were 24 normal lumbar spine segment of swine were divided into the following four groups control group, standard group (internal fixed with pedicle screws only), transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) group and E-TLIF group. The specimen in anteflect, hypsokinesis, lateral flexion and rotate movements were tested respectively with bio-mechanical devices to study on the load-straining changes and biomechanics index. RESULTS: After TLIF or E-TLIF, specimen turned out more steady than normal control group (t = 4.17 - 4.53, P < 0.01). Compared with TLIF group [linear displacement (3.98 ± 0.22) mm, angular displacement 3.03° ± 0.18°], specimen after E-TLIF [linear displacement (3.40 ± 0.09) mm, angular displacement 2.57° ± 0.12°] were more stable in biomechanics index on lateral flection movement (t = 2.61, P < 0.05), but no difference on axial or rotational movements (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: E-TLIF is a safe and more efficient operation approach.