Biportal Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: The Double-Cage Technique
10.21182/jmisst.2024.01620
- Author:
Jwo-Luen PAO
1
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Far-Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Publication Type:Video
- From:
Journal of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and Technique
2024;9(2):203-206
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (BETLIF) is a novel spinal fusion procedure using the unilateral biportal endoscopic technique. The hydrostatic pressure of saline irrigation suppresses bleeding, enabling us to perform delicate surgery in a crystal-clear and magnified surgical field with almost no bleeding. Adequate neural decompression, disc space preparation, and bony endplate preservation can be achieved safely. The sturdy endplate reduces the incidence of cage subsidence and provides good initial stability. We use 2 interbody fusion cages and a large amount of bone graft to promote fusion. Reduction of the spondylolisthesis can also be achieved using a modern pedicle screw system. This article presents a step-by-step demonstration of the BETLIF technique in a 68-year-old patient with degenerative scoliosis and spondylolisthesis at L4-5, including his clinical presentation and treatment results. BETLIF is a safe, effective, and revolutionary minimally invasive solution for spinal fusion. Its advantages include a magnificent surgical field, direct decompression, minimum blood loss, radical discectomy, meticulous endplate preparation, cage insertion under direct visual control, and excellent treatment results with a high fusion rate and few complications.
