A novel approach to spinal fusion surgery results in a reduction of blood loss during surgery and less ileus, or intestinal blockage, postoperatively, as well as reduced operative times and hospital stays, according to a new study from researchers at NYU Langone Health.
Spinal fusion, a surgery which connects two or more vertebrae in the spine to treat degenerative or deformity-related spinal conditions such as spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and spondylolisthesis, has traditionally been performed using a technique that involves repositioning the patient, or “flipping” them, midway through surgery from their back or side, to their stomach.
This new technique, called single position anterior-posterior lumbar fusion surgery (SPLS) allows surgeons to complete the entire operation while the patient is laying on their side. This enables the surgical team to approach the spine through both the front and back—which leads to a higher fusion rate—while minimizing the amount of time needed for surgery, and allowing more rapid recovery.
