LAPAROSCOPIC ASSISTED SPINE SURGERY

Background: Evaluation of the technical aspects and clinical outcome o f laparoscopic assisted interbody fusion (LAIF) using the BAK techniqu e. Method: 17 patients with chronic low back pain due to degenerative disc disease at L5-S1 and L4-L5 were treated with LAIF using the BAK t echnique. Surgical time: blood loss and intraoperative problems were a ssessed. The short-term clinical and radiological outcome was measured . Results: The technical part of the procedure depends on a learning c urve. However, in collaboration with a laparoscopic surgeon no complic ations related to the technique occurred. The limits of the technique are due to the anatomical situation at the L4-L5 level. 14/17 patients had an improvement in their lower back pain. Conclusion: The techniqu e of LAIF is demanding. The L5-S1 level can be addressed with ease; ho wever, transabdominal fusion of L4-L5 is not recommended. Patient sele ction remains the keystone. LAIF is the least invasive measure in orde r to stabilize and fuse a motion segment.