Min-Seok Kang1, Hoon-Jae Chung1, Ho-Jung Jung2, Hyun-Jin Park3. 1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Bumin Hospital, Seoul, South Korea. 2. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Spine Center, Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, 1, Singil-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, 07441, South Korea. 3. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Spine Center, Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, 1, Singil-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, 07441, South Korea. phjfrog@gmail.com.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The biportal endoscope-assisted unilateral foraminal approach is an option for various foraminal pathologies. Lumbar interbody fusion is the standard treatment for foraminal stenosis because both direct and indirect neural decompressions can be obtained. METHOD: We used the biportal endoscopic technique for extraforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (BE-EFLIF) and have described the steps, with discussion regarding the indications, advantages, possible complications, and ways to overcome complications. CONCLUSION: BE-EFLIF achieves direct neural decompression of lateral spinal canal under endoscopic visualization. It achieves indirect neural decompression using a large footprint lordotic interbody cage, while preserving the lumbar posterior arch as much as possible.
BACKGROUND: The biportal endoscope-assisted unilateral foraminal approach is an option for various foraminal pathologies. Lumbar interbody fusion is the standard treatment for foraminal stenosis because both direct and indirect neural decompressions can be obtained. METHOD: We used the biportal endoscopic technique for extraforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (BE-EFLIF) and have described the steps, with discussion regarding the indications, advantages, possible complications, and ways to overcome complications. CONCLUSION: BE-EFLIF achieves direct neural decompression of lateral spinal canal under endoscopic visualization. It achieves indirect neural decompression using a large footprint lordotic interbody cage, while preserving the lumbar posterior arch as much as possible.