Single Versus Dual Incisions for Lateral Retroperitoneal Approach

Abstract

Lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas interbody fusion is a popular minimally invasive procedure for interbody fusion of the lumbar spine. This technique was initially described in 2006 and since then multiple modifications have been adopted (Ozgur et al., Spine J Off J N Am Spine Soc 6(4):435–443, 2006). The original technique employed two incisions, one direct lateral and one posterolateral. Some surgeons prefer and are able to do this approach by only a single incision. Each version has their own advantages and potential complications.