Fusion Rates of Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion Using Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2.

Study Design: Retrospective observational case series.

Objectives: Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) has been widely performed with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2), but the fusion rates using this graft alternative have not been well studied. We aimed to evaluate fusion rates in 1- and 2-level LLIF with rhBMP-2 and their relationship with fixation, as well as rates of BMP-related complications.

Effect of Anatomic Variability and Level of Approach on Perioperative Vascular Complications With Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion.

Study Design: Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Objective: The study aim was to determine the prevalence of vascular complications associated with anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) as a function of anatomic variation and the number of levels fused.

Summary Of Background Data: ALIF often requires mobilization of the great vessels, particularly when exposing levels above L5-S1.

Vascular complications of exposure for anterior lumbar interbody fusion.

Objective: The purpose of this study is to document the incidence of vascular complications during anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) in 212 consecutive patients treated at the Scripps Clinic and determine what factors adversely affected outcome.

Methods: We reviewed the prospectively maintained database of all ALIF procedures performed at Scripps Clinic between August 2004 and June 2009. All procedures were performed by a spine surgeon in conjunction with a vascular surgeon who performed the exposure portion of the operation, and protected the vessels from injury during the instrumentation phase of the operation.