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.