{"title":"Oblique lateral interbody fusion: Technique and pearls","authors":"Elyette Lugo, Wesley Durand, Amit Jain","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101160","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101160","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Lumbar interbody fusion is a surgical procedure that fuses two or more vertebrae used to treat degenerative spinal conditions, instability, and deformities. There are several approaches commonly used, such as anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF), each with distinct risks and limitations. Anterior-to-the psoas oblique lateral interbody fusion (ATP/OLIF) is a surgical approach that was introduced to optimize lumbar interbody fusion while mitigating risks associated with the traditional approaches. ATP/OLIF utilizes an oblique surgical corridor between the psoas muscle and major vascular structures. ATP/OLIF offers a minimally invasive alternative for lumbar fusion, providing safe access to the L1-L5 levels, particularly L4-L5, with reduced risk of vascular injury (compared to ALIF) and lumbar plexus irritation (compared to PLIF). This chapter outlines the rationale, indications, surgical approach, and technical pearls essential for successful ATP/OLIF implementation. Compared to ALIF, TLIF, and LLIF, ATP/OLIF minimizes the need for vascular mobilization and neural retraction, improving surgical efficiency and patient outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101160"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890846","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Prashanth J Rao , Nipun Shreshtha , Gayani Petersingham , Andrew J Berg , Kevin Seex
{"title":"L2/3, L3/4 and L4/5 oblique lumbar interbody fusion/anterior to psoas: Anatomical and technical considerations","authors":"Prashanth J Rao , Nipun Shreshtha , Gayani Petersingham , Andrew J Berg , Kevin Seex","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101162","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101162","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Degenerative disc and facet joint disease are prevalent conditions in the aging population, often leading to disability. Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) /anterior to psoas (ATP) surgeries provide effective treatment by stabilizing the affected segment, offering indirect decompression of neural elements, and correcting coronal and sagittal deformities. Other indications include instability, infection, tumour and revision surgery. This review aims to assess the anatomical and technical considerations essential for performing OLIF/ATP surgeries between L2-L5 .</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The surgical techniques and anatomical and technical considerations for lumbar interbody fusion using OLIF/ATP at the L2/3, L3/4, and L4/5 levels were examined.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>This review outlines anatomical and technical considerations for a successful ATP/OLIF procedure L2-L5.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study thoroughly reviews the literature on OLIF/ATP and provides recommendations and guidelines on anatomical and technical considerations for ATP/OLIF procedures at L2/3, L3/4 and L4/5.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101162"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890848","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Anterior-to-psoas OLIF: Surgical approach, issues & technical nuances","authors":"Stjepan Ivandić , Jure Pavešić , Stipe Ćorluka , Tomislav Čengić","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101159","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101159","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>OLIF is a variant of anterolateral approach to lumbar spine that aims to mitigate shortcomings of other anterior approaches. It utilizes surgical corridor termed oblique corridor that's located between great vessels and psoas muscle. In this review we aim to explore technical aspects of anterior to psoas approach and associated issues and dangers. Possible complications and prevention strategies will be discussed as well as different techniques and surgical tips. New developments in surgical technique and approach variations will be showcased</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101159"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890844","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Contributors to authors","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101172","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101172","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101172"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890849","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Andrew James Berg , Prashanth J Rao , Jake Timothy
{"title":"Minimally invasive lateral approach to the thoracic spine and thoracolumbar junction","authors":"Andrew James Berg , Prashanth J Rao , Jake Timothy","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101163","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101163","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Traditional thoracotomy has long been established as an effective technique for treating anterior-based pathologies of the thoracic spine but is associated with significant morbidity, including high rates of respiratory complications and persistent thoracic wall pain. In response to these limitations, the minimally invasive lateral approach to the thoracic spine and thoracolumbar junction has emerged as a less morbid alternative, while offering comparable surgical access to the vertebral body, disc, and anterior spinal canal. This approach enables treatment of a wide range of pathologies — including trauma, infection, neoplasia, degeneration, and deformity — through procedures such as discectomy, spinal cord decompression, interbody fusion, corpectomy, and anterolateral instrumentation. Careful patient selection, thorough preoperative planning, and precise anatomical understanding are essential for its safe and effective application. This paper reviews the indications, contraindications, anatomical considerations, surgical technique, outcomes, and complications associated with the minimally invasive lateral approach, with particular emphasis on anatomical relationships of critical structures — including the diaphragm, aorta, and azygos vein — and technical aspects such as patient positioning, incision planning, diaphragm management, and retractor systems. Published clinical data demonstrating reductions in operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, and approach-related morbidity compared to traditional thoracotomy — while achieving equivalent or superior fusion rates and deformity correction — are outlined, along with evidence supporting the utility of this approach for specific anterior spinal pathologies. This paper provides a comprehensive resource for surgeons incorporating the minimally invasive lateral approach to the thoracic and thoracolumbar spine into their clinical practice.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101163"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890737","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) implants and lumbar disc replacement: Design, current status, and future directions","authors":"Stipe Ćorluka , Stjepan Ivandić , Mišo Krstičević , Tomislav Čengić","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101165","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101165","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>A variety of implants are used in Anterior-To-Psoas OLIF, with different cage materials and fixation strategies depending on patient characteristics, surgeon preferences, and surgical goals. Common materials include titanium and PEEK. Cages can be used in a stand-alone fashion or with supplemental fixation. However, there is no consensus on the optimal cage material or fixation technique. Options for fixation include embedded cage screws, posterior pedicle screws, and less common methods such as anterolateral screws and cortical bone trajectory screws. Recent advancements also include expandable cages and disc replacement.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101165"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890738","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Andrew James Berg , Joseph Maalouly , Liam D. Rose , Prashanth J. Rao , Shay Menachem
{"title":"Anterior to psoas fusion: Radiological parameters and associated clinical outcomes","authors":"Andrew James Berg , Joseph Maalouly , Liam D. Rose , Prashanth J. Rao , Shay Menachem","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101167","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101167","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Anterior-to-psoas (ATP) or Oblique Lumber Interbody Fusion (OLIF) procedures have gained popularity, resulting in an increasing number of studies reporting associated outcomes. Analysing these outcomes is crucial for understanding the procedure's benefits and limitations. This review identifies commonly reported radiological parameters, including indirect decompression, fusion rates, subsidence, spondylolisthesis reduction, and deformity correction. By evaluating existing literature, we provide a commentary on these parameters and their impact on clinical outcomes. This review serves as a valuable resource for surgeons, aiding in patient evaluation, surgical planning, informed consent, and technical execution of the procedure.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101167"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890843","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"History of anterolateral spine surgery","authors":"Johanna Oltmann, Kevin Seex","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101157","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101157","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Anterolateral approaches to the spine have become essential for addressing a variety of spinal pathologies, offering an alternative to traditional posterior methods. These techniques, though effective, present anatomical challenges that require continuous innovation to improve safety and clinical outcomes. With an aging population demanding safer and less invasive procedures, spine surgeons increasingly rely on anterolateral approaches to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and deformities. Historical developments, including Ménard's lateral extracavitary approach, Müller's anterior lumbar access, and Hodgson and Stock's anterior spinal fusion, have shaped these techniques. Advancements like the retroperitoneal ALIF, mini-open variations, XLIF and ATP procedures have refined the approach, reducing morbidity and accelerating recovery. The shift to minimally invasive techniques has improved surgical outcomes, and as demand for these surgeries grows, further refinement of anterolateral techniques promises to enhance safety and efficacy in managing complex spinal disorders. This review summarizes the history and progress of anterolateral spine surgery.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101157"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890851","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Complications of anterior-to-psoas and their avoidance and treatment","authors":"Chang Hwa Ham, Woo-Keun Kwon, Joo Han Kim","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101161","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101161","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The anterior-to-psoas (ATP) approach in lumbar fusion offers advantages but carries risks of vascular, neural, and ureteral injuries, as well as postoperative ileus (POI). Vascular injuries may cause significant hemorrhage, while neural complications can result in neurologic deficits and autonomic dysfunction. Ureteral injury, though rare, may lead to renal failure if undiagnosed. POI is associated with excessive careless manipulations causing local inflammations and pain. Preventive strategies, including meticulous surgical techniques, neuromonitoring, and careful tissue handling, are crucial to minimize complications and improve patient outcomes. This review highlights the importance of understanding and mitigating these risks to enhance the safety and efficacy of ATP procedures.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101161"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890847","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Patient selection and workup","authors":"David Strong , Joel Steiner , Robert Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101158","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.semss.2025.101158","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Patient selection is vital to achieve success in the Anterior-to-Psoas (ATP) / Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion (OLIF) approach. This technique, which offers unique advantages, can be technically demanding and requires careful preoperative evaluation to optimize outcomes and minimize complications. This article aims to guide surgeons in identifying suitable patients, perform a thorough patient workup and address the unique challenges associated with the ATP/OLIF procedure. In particular we discuss anatomical variations seen on imaging as well as important features in the patient history and examination. Through optimizing patients preoperatively and building a surgical plan for the individual's anatomy, the surgeon can minimize risks and improve patient's outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":39884,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Spine Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101158"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143890845","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}