Full endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (FELIF): technical note.

PURPOSE

Interbody fusion by open discectomy is the usual treatment for degenerative lumbar disease but requires a relatively long recovery period. Prevalent several interbody fusion methods have shown limitations by its own character. Full endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (FELIF) has advantages in direct decompression of pathology with minimal invasive technique. We report novel technique of endoscopic fusion method through full guided with endoscopic view monitoring system.

METHODS

The authors provide an introduction of FELIF technique followed by a description of the technical steps with discussion on its indications and advantages. In particular, tips to shorten operation time, simplify technical steps, and avoid complications are also presented.

CONCLUSIONS

FELIF is a safe and effective interbody fusion option to decompress the lumbar exiting nerve root and ventral side of dura directly with minimal invasive situation. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.