Unilateral pedicle screw instrumentation for minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.
OBJECT
Clinical and radiographic results were assessed to determine the clinical outcomes and fusion rate in eight consecutive patients selected for minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in which a percutaneous pedicle screw system was used unilaterally.


METHODS
Eight patients underwent one-level, minimally invasive TLIF in which a percutaneous pedicle screw system was used only on the side where facets were removed for interbody access. Clinical, economic, functional, and radiographic data were recorded preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively. The mean 6-month change in the modified Prolo Scale score was 7, and osseous interbody bridging assessed on coronal and sagittal computerized tomography studies was seen in all patients.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of unilateral percutaneous pedicle screw instrumentation for the minimally invasive TLIF procedure provides excellent clinical results and is an option in selected patients.