Statement of the Problem: Historically, the treatment of degenerative spine and thoracolumbar fractures consisted of open posterior fixation with or without anterior stabilization. However, these procedures are associated with morbidity, such as infection, blood loss, venous thromboembolism, and other cardiopulmonary complications. Since the advent of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques, no clear consensus exists regarding the best way to treat these conditions. Decision making considers the extent of anterior column disease, fracture stability, neurological status, other traumatic injuries, and the likelihood of nonoperative management success. Multi-level MIS procedures may have lower risks and promote a faster recovery time. In this retrospective review we provide a single center experience comparing the open vs. MIS for 4-6 level posterior spinal thoracolumbar fusions.
