Abstract
Objectives: Comparison of peri and intraoperative parameters between mini-ALIF (using balloon assisted dissector and Synframe retractor) and open midline approach for single and double level ALIF.
Methods: Independent, retrospective evaluation of 35 patients split between those undergoing the mini-ALIF or the conventional approach via larger midline incision. Groups matched for age, sex and number of levels. Operations performed at University Hospital, Nottingham between 1997 and 2000.
Outcome measures: Data collated for operative time, intraoperative blood loss, complications, PCA requirements, time to mobilisation and hospital stay.
Results: Statistically significant (p=0.01) reduction in operative time (175 vs 265mins) and time to mobilization (2.1 vs 3.9 days) found for single level mini-ALIF. Complications namely vascular injuries were almost equal in both groups. No difference was found between the two groups for double level procedures.
Conclusion: The immediate advantages of a less invasive approach both to the patient and the hospital do not appear to be borne out by this study. Cosmesis was not assessed and long term functional outcome awaits later review.
Abstracts prepared by Mr. A. J. Stirling, FRCS, and Miss A. Weaver. Correspondence should be addressed to Miss A. Weaver at the Research and Teaching Centre, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Northfield, Birmingham, B31 2AP, UK
BritSpine 2002, the second combined meeting of the British Association of Spinal Surgeons, the British Cervical Spine Society, The British Scoliosis Society and the Society for Back Pain Research, took place at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham UK between 27th February and 1st March 2002. The following presentations and posters were given and displayed.
