Force-limited distance-measurable nerve root retractor plus intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring reduces L5 radiculitis in posterior lumbar interbody fusion.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To evaluate the incidence of L5 radiculitis in patients undergoing posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) using a force-limited distance-measurable nerve root retractor (FLDM-NRR) combined with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM), compared with conventional nerve root retraction.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined 234 patients with L4-L5 lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) undergoing single-level PLIF from January 2022 to March 2024. Patients were categorized into the FLDM-NRR plus IONM group (n = 96) with force limitation ≤ 3.5 N, and the conventional nerve root retraction group (n = 138). The primary outcome was 3-month L5 radiculitis; Secondary outcomes included 1-year persistent neurological impairment, Japanese Orthopedic Association (

SUBMITTER: Wang M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12619203 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature