Stand-Alone interbody or lateral interbody fusion for spondylolisthesis

As emphasis is placed on minimally invasive fusion and instrumentation techniques, stand-alone interbody fusion has become increasingly popular. The objective of this chapter is to review the background, current practices, and literature pertaining to stand-alone techniques for spondylolisthesis. Stand-alone interbody techniques can be safely applied to treat low-grade spondylolistheses in appropriately selected patients. Cage subsidence, psoas weakness, and the inability to address higher grade spondylolistheses may limit the utility of stand-alone interbody fusion in some patients. As these procedures become more commonplace, surgical indications may shift with increased study of their benefits and limitations.