Abstract

Background. Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) is a widely accepted surgical technique. But there are only a few reports of MIS-TLIF using the midline approach and single cage.
Aim : to know the results of performing combined mini TLIF fusion with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases.
Methods. Twelve patients were followed for a mean of12 months. Radiological data include fusion rate, change of disc height. The visual analog score (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were used to assess clinical outcomes.
Results. The mean age of these patients at operation was 50 years (range, 45–62 years). Evidence of fusion was observed radiologically in 64.71% at 6 months and 87.5% at 12 months after surgery. The mean VAS scores for back and leg pain and ODI scores improved significantly at the final follow-up.
Conclusions. Clinical and radiologic outcomes of MIS-TLIF using midline approach and banana cage in patients indicate an acceptable method for the treatment of various kinds of degenerative lumbar spinal diseases.