What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to showcase a new technique for positioning lumbar artificial discs during surgery to improve alignment and outcomes.

July 8, 2026Open Access

Novel Use of Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Trial to Aid in Midline Placement of Lumbar Artificial Disc: A Technical Note With Illustrative Case

Key Points

This research aims to showcase a new technique for positioning lumbar artificial discs during surgery to improve alignment and outcomes.
Utilized a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) trial as a spacer during artificial disc replacement surgery.
Described a case where repeated implant placements were corrected using the TLIF trial to ensure proper midline alignment.
Successful positioning of the lumbar artificial disc was achieved using the TLIF trial, preventing lateral deviation during insertion.
Demonstrated that using a TLIF trial as an adjunctive tool is feasible and can improve surgical outcomes.

Abstract

Lumbar artificial disc replacement (ADR) is an established motion-preserving surgical option for degenerative disc disease. Proper implant positioning has been associated with improved clinical outcomes, implant longevity, and reduced rates of postoperative complications. We describe a novel intraoperative technique using a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) trial as a temporary lateral spacer to facilitate midline positioning of a lumbar ADR and prevent implant skiving (lateral deviation during insertion). In the case presented, repeated attempts at ADR placement resulted in lateral deviation of the implant; a TLIF trial was employed as a mechanical barrier, allowing successful positioning of the ADR. This technical note demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing a TLIF trial as an adjunctive tool to facilitate accurate coronal alignment of lumbar arthroplasty implants when standard insertion techniques prove challenging.

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