Surgical Technique
MAXIMUM ACCESS SURGICAL PLATFORM
C O N T E N T S
P r e f a c e 1
M A S ® T L I F S u r g i c a l Te c h n i q u e 2
M A S T L I F S u r g e r y C o n f i g u r a t i o n 2
P a t i e n t P o s i t i o n i n g a n d O . R . S e t u p 2
P e d i c l e Ta r g e t i n g 3
E x p o s u r e 5
F a c e t e c t o m y a n d D e c o m p r e s s i o n 14
D i s t r a c t i o n ( O p t i o n a l ) 15
D i s c P r e p a r a t i o n 16
I n t e r b o d y I m p l a n t S i z i n g 17
I m p l a n t I n s e r t i o n 18
S p h e R x ® P P S H e a d A t t a c h m e n t a n d R o d P l a c e m e n t 19
C o n t r a l a t e r a l F i x a t i o n U s i n g S p h e R x P P S w i t h D B R ® I I 2 2
C l o s u r e 2 2
M A S T L I F S y s t e m 2 3
C a t a l o g 2 8
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P R E FA C E
Fellow Colleagues:
Minimally disruptive spine surgery has been an elusive goal due to the challenges associated with steep learning curves, low efficiencies, and perceived limited
effectiveness of minimally invasive procedures. Many of the technique principles used in conventional procedures are often compromised when working through
small apertures, using small instruments and unconventional visualization technologies.
MaXcess® was the first integrated access system to use a split-blade retractor to maximize the exposure, while minimizing soft tissue disruption. Surgeons were then
able to perform conventional surgery using conventional instruments with direct visualization. The conventional nature of the surgery reduced the learning curve
and enabled surgeons, who were previously frustrated by minimally invasive techniques, to be successful in accomplishing their surgical objectives.
The MAS® TLIF technique further advances minimally disruptive surgery by using pedicles to define the exposure, and to provide stabilization of the access system
as it is anchored to the spine. When exposure is achieved, surgeons are now able to easily identify the pedicles as a basis for anatomical orientation. The integrated
product platforms: MaXcess® MAS TLIF Access system, SpheRx® PPS Pedicle Screw system, NVJJB™/M5® Nerve Monitoring system, Osteocel® Plus cellular bone
matrix, and CoRoent® interbody implants combine to provide a seamless solution that delivers safe, reproducible MAS TLIF surgery.
Cordially,
Mark D. Peterson, M.D.
Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon
Southern Oregon Orthopedics
Medford, OR
USA
William Taylor, M.D.
Associate Professor
Division of Neurologic Surgery
University of California, San Diego
San Diego, CA
USA
Antoine G. Tohmeh, M.D.
Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon
Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists
Spokane, WA
USA
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
MAS® TLIF SURGERY CONFIGURATION
• MaXcess® MAS TLIF System
• Articulating Arm
• SpheRx® PPS 6.25 or 5.5 EXT System
• SpheRx DBR® II
• Decompression Instruments
• Posterior General Instruments
• TLIF Instruments (not necessary with CoRoent® LO)
• CoRoent LO, LN, LW, LC (Options)
• Osteocel® Plus, FormaGraft® (Options)
• NVM5™ System
• NVM5 Disposables (including I-PASTM)
• MaXcess MAS TLIF Disposables
Reference the SpheRx PPS, SpheRx DBR II, CoRoent, and
NVM5 Surgical Techniques or Reference Manual(s) and/or
Instructions for Use (IFU) for additional important labeling
information.
PATIENT POSITIONING ANd
O.R. SETUP
Position the patient on a radiolucent operating table in a
prone position. A bedrail on the table is necessary in order to
attach an Articulating Arm. Prepare and drape the patient in a
conventional manner (Fig. 1).
Under fluoroscopy, adjust the table so that the C-Arm provides
an A/P image when the orbital angle is at 90.° Adjust the
cranial/caudal angle of the C-Arm to obtain a true A/P image of
the targeted vertebra, and a true lateral image when the orbital
angle is at 0° (Figs. 2, 3).
(Fig. 1)
(Fig. 3)(Fig. 2)
NVM5™
A/P VIEW LATERAL VIEW
C-ARM
FLUORO
MONITORS
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 1:
PEdICLE TARGETING
Locate the affected level by using fluoroscopy in the A/P and
lateral views. Obtain a true A/P image to identify and mark the
starting location at each pedicle (Figs. 4, 5). It is recommended
to obtain a distinct endplate view above the targeted pedicles.
Contralateral pedicles may be targeted and marked in
conjunction with the ipsilateral pedicles at this time (Fig. 6).
Make an approximately 3cm skin incision between the pedicle
entry point markings on the ipsilateral side (Fig. 7).
(Fig. 4)
(Fig. 5)
(Fig. 6)
(Fig. 7)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 1:
PEdICLE TARGETING (CONT.)
Connect the NVJJBTM/M5® Stimulation Clip to the I-PASTM needle.
Cannulate the pedicles with the I-PAS needle, using a standard
percutaneous pedicle targeting technique. Use NVM5TM
Dynamic Screw Test functionality throughout cannulation to
provide stimulated EMG information in order to reduce the risk
of pedicle wall violation (Fig. 8).
Remove the purple handle from the I-PAS needle, place a
K-Wire through the needle (Fig. 9), and remove the needle
using the black handle.
Repeat the cannulation technique described above for the
other pedicles. Secure the contralateral K-Wires to the drape
using towel clamps or similar instruments (Fig. 10).
(Fig. 8)
(Fig. 10)(Fig. 9)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE
Release tissue from the facet joint between the ipsilateral
K-Wires, using digital dissection, a Cobb, or Curette (Fig. 11).
Ensure the space between K-Wires is free from fascia or tissue
that would prevent Retractor Blades from being placed.
Place 1st Dilator over one of the K-Wires down to the spine.
Take a measurement using the scale on the Dilator to select
the appropriate Retractor Blade length (Fig. 12). Select a blade
length as indicated by the first marking that is above the skin,
and note whether it is a right or left Blade, as viewed by the
surgeon.
Place the K-Wire Gauge over the K-Wire and use the
measurements on the proximal end to determine the length
of the K-Wire in the bone. This can be used to select the
appropriate Screw Shank length (Fig. 13).
(Fig. 11)
(Fig. 13)(Fig. 12)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
The scrub assistant will then assemble the proper Blade,
Hoop Shim, Screw Shank, and MAS® TLIF Shank Driver while
the surgeon is tapping the pedicle (Fig. 14). Ensure that a
cannulated Screw Shank is used, since it will be placed over
the K-Wire.
Place the 2nd Dilator over the 1st Dilator down to the spine
(Fig. 15).
Remove the 1st Dilator, select the appropriate Tap, and place
over the K-Wire down to the spine. Attach the NVJJB™/M5®
Stimulation Clip onto the Tap, and activate NVJJB/M5 to obtain
dynamic monitoring readings while tapping (Fig. 16).
(Fig. 14)
(Fig. 16)(Fig. 15)
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NOTE:
To ensure the Retractor will have adequate
mobility throughout the procedure, it is best
to stop advancing the Screw Shank/Blade
assembly when resistance is encountered.
The Screw Shank may be advanced to the
desired depth following head attachment
later in the procedure.
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
Remove the 2nd Dilator. Place the Screw Shank/Blade
assembly over the K-Wire, and drive the Screw Shank into the
pedicle until either the distal end of the Shank Driver or the
Blade bottoms out on bone (Figs. 17, 18). The K-Wire may be
removed after the Screw Shank enters the posterior portion of
the vertebral body. Release Shank Driver from the Screw Shank
and withdraw from the Blade (Figs. 19, 20).
(Fig. 17)
(Fig. 19) (Fig. 20)
(Fig. 18)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
Repeat Blade and Screw Shank measurement for the K-Wire
in the other ipsilateral pedicle at the TLIF level. Tap and place
the other Screw Shank/Blade assembly, as in the previous
sequence (Fig. 21).
Rotate the Blades so that the post on the proximal end of
each Blade points medial. Insert posts into the Retractor Body
and tighten set screws to secure Blades to the Retractor Body
(Fig. 22).
(Fig. 21)
(Fig. 22)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
Attach the Articulating Arm Rail Clamp to the bedrail of the
surgical table (Fig. 23). Place the Articulating Arm post through
the Rail Clamp, adjust to the desired height, and lock into
position by tightening the handle on the Rail Clamp (Fig. 24).
Attach the opposite end of the Articulating Arm to the Retractor
Body (Fig. 25).
(Fig. 23) (Fig. 24)
(Fig. 25)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
Position Retractor so that the Blades are parallel to the disc
space, and so that the proper medial exposure trajectory is
achieved (Figs. 26, 27). Lock the Articulating Arm by tightening
the Articulating Arm handle. Place the Retractor T-Handle onto
the hex, labeled C-C (cranial/caudal) on the Retractor Body,
and turn clockwise to gain additional proximal exposure, if
necessary (Fig. 28).
(Fig. 26)
(Fig. 28)(Fig. 27)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
Insert Light Cable tips approximately halfway down each of
the right and left Blades, bend flush to the Retractor Body,
and attach the other end of the Light Cable to a light source
(Fig. 29).
Palpate the facet joint with the index finger for anatomical
reference. Use a small Cobb to elevate tissue from the facet
capsule and lamina medial to the facet joint. Place the 1st Dilator
through the exposure, down to the lamina, just medial to the
facet joint. Select a center Blade based on the measurement at
the center Blade post on the Retractor Body (Fig. 30).
(Fig. 29)
(Fig. 30)
NOTE:
The center rack on the Retractor Body may be
adjusted laterally to engage the center Blade
as it is positioned on top of the facet joint.
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
Attach the appropriate center Blade onto the Medial
Blade Handle so the Handle points in the same direction
as the curve on the distal end of the center Blade
(Fig. 31). Place the center Blade through the exposure down
to the facet joint and attach it to the center arm on the Retractor
Body (Fig. 32). Tighten the set screw that secures the center
Blade to the Retractor Body with the Set Screwdriver and
remove the Handle (Figs. 32, 33).
(Fig. 32) (Fig. 33)
(Fig. 31)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 2:
ExPOSURE (CONT.)
The adjustable extension on the center Blade is intended to
elevate tissue while following the topography of the facet,
lamina, and base of the spinous process as it is retracted
medial. Place the Shim Adjuster down the center Blade to apply
light downward pressure on the adjustable Blade extension.
Position the Retractor T-Handle onto the hex on the Retractor
Body labeled M-L (medial/lateral), and then turn clockwise to
retract medial (Figs. 34-36).
(Fig. 36)(Fig. 35)
(Fig. 34)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 3:
FACETECTOMY ANd dECOMPRESSION
Locate the pedicle Screw Shank heads at the base of each of
the cranial/caudal Blades. Identify the key anatomy, such as the
facet joint, pars, and inferior edge of the lamina, based upon
their location relative to the pedicles (Fig. 37).
Perform the facetectomy by first using the Facet Rongeur to
debulk the facet joint. A burr can be used to thin the remainder
of the facet complex, and Kerrison Rongeurs can be used to
complete the facetectomy and decompression (Fig. 38).
If necessary, loosen the Articulating Arm and tilt the Retractor
Body to obtain a more medial trajectory to perform a
contralateral decompression. The Retractor pivots about the
heads of the Screw Shanks and maintains proper position while
undercutting the spinous process (Figs. 39, 40)
(Fig. 39) (Fig. 40)
(Fig. 38)(Fig. 37)
Pars
Inferior
Edge of
Lamina
Facet Joint
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 4:
dISTRACTION (OPTIONAL)
If distraction is warranted, place the Retractor T-Handle onto the
Blade distraction bolts and turn clockwise until the bottom of
the bolts touch the Retractor Body (Fig. 41). This will then keep
the Blades from tilting inward when using the C-C adjustment
to open the Retractor. Place the Retractor T-Handle onto the
hex, labeled C-C on the Retractor Body, and turn clockwise to
distract off the Screw Shanks (Fig. 42).
NOTE:
Care must be taken to avoid damaging the
pedicles, which could compromise pedicle
screw purchase. An alternative approach is to
wait until the disc space has been evacuated.
First, use an interbody sizer or Trial to distract
the disc space, and then follow the previous
steps to hold distraction.
(Fig. 42)
(Fig. 41)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 5:
dISC PREPARATION
Make an annulotomy and perform a conventional discectomy,
using a combination of Pituitary Rongeurs, Disc Cutters,
Endplate Scrapers, Curettes, and Rasps (Figs. 43-48).
(Fig. 43)
(Fig. 44)
(Fig. 46)
(Fig. 48)
(Fig. 45)
(Fig. 47)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 6:
INTERBOdY IMPLANT SIzING
If the Retractor was used to distract the disc space, release
distraction by turning the distraction bolts on the Blades
counterclockwise until the bolts no longer touch the Retractor
Body. This will reduce the possibility that distraction from the
Screw Shanks will interfere with proper implant sizing.
While NuVasive® offers a variety of interbody implant systems
uniquely designed for different interbody grafting techniques
and implant orientations, the CoRoent® LO implant placement
summary is shown as an example in this technique.
If the CoRoent LO system is selected, choose the appropriately
sized starting Trial. Attach a T-Handle and insert the Trial
into the disc space, using an oblique trajectory with the
final disc height dimension oriented in the plane of the disc
(Figs. 49, 50).
When rotating the Trial to height, ensure that the “MEDIAL”
and “LATERAL” markings are in the correct orientation upon
completion (Fig. 51).
Once the proper height and length have been determined
using tactile feel and a lateral fluoroscopy image, obtain an A/P
image to ensure the distal end of the Trial crosses the midline
of the disc (Fig. 52).
NOTE:
The implant sizing technique will depend
upon the particular interbody implant
system used. Please refer to the associated
technique guide or brochure for sizing and
placement details. (Fig. 49) (Fig. 50)
(Fig. 52)(Fig. 51)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 7:
IMPLANT INSERTION
If the CoRoent® LO system is being used, place the
appropriately sized implant onto the Inserter and tighten
(Fig. 53). Pack the implant and interbody space with bone graft
material. Osteocel® Plus may be placed in the interbody space
using a bone funnel, however, CoRoent interbody devices are
only approved for use when packed with allograft. Insert the
implant into the interbody, using an oblique trajectory with the
final implant height dimension oriented in the plane of the disc
(Fig. 54).
When rotating the implant to height, ensure that the “MEDIAL”
and “LATERAL” markings on the Inserter are in the correct
orientation upon completion (Fig. 55).
Prior to releasing the implant from the Inserter, use lateral and
A/P fluoro to ensure proper implant placement. After releasing,
the implant position may be adjusted using an implant tamp
(Fig. 56).
Release distraction if distraction was used. This is performed by
either slightly closing the Retractor, or turning the distraction
bolts on the Blades counterclockwise.
NOTE:
Osteocel Plus is an advanced allograft cellular
bone matrix, designed to mimic the biological
profile of autograft. For more information,
refer to the Osteocel Plus brochure.
(Fig. 54)(Fig. 53)
(Fig. 56)(Fig. 55)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 8:
SPhERx® PPS hEAd ATTAChMENT
ANd ROd PLACEMENT
Place the Hoop Shim Removal Tool down the shim track of the
right or left Blade until it engages the Hoop Shim. Gently use
the Hoop Shim Removal Tool to provide upward force, which
will unlock the Hoop Shim from the Screw Shank and withdraw
it from the Blade (Fig. 57). Repeat with the opposite Blade
to disengage the other Hoop Shim. If necessary, the Blades
can be expanded to gain additional space around Screw Shank
heads to facilitate Tulip attachment.
Attach a 6.25mm PPS Tulip to the 6.25mm Head Inserter by
engaging the Tulip and threading the knob on the Inserter
counterclockwise to secure (Fig. 58).
Place the Tulip through the exposure onto one of the exposed
Screw Shanks and press down firmly (Fig. 59). Pressing down
using an orbital motion may help to engage the Tulip.
The Verification Torque T-Handle must be used with the Head
Inserter to verify the Tulip is properly attached to the Screw
Shank. Refer to the SpheRx PPS Technique Guide for further
details on its proper use (Fig. 60).
Release the Tulip from the Head Inserter by unthreading the
knob on the Inserter. Repeat the previously described process
to attach the other SpheRx PPS Tulip.
(Fig. 58)
(Fig. 60)
(Fig. 57)
(Fig. 59)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 8:
SPhERx® PPS hEAd ATTAChMENT
ANd ROd PLACEMENT (CONT.)
If necessary, use the Screw Head Adjuster from the SpheRx
PPS system to adjust the height of the screws to the desired
final position.
Also if necessary, use the Screw Head Adjuster from the SpheRx
PPS system to position the Tulips in the proper orientation.
Place the ball ends of the Caliper into the Tulips and take a
measurement (Fig. 61).
Select the corresponding DBR® II Rod from the DBR II implant
tray and place into the Tulips (Fig. 62). With the Rod fully
seated into the Tulips, insert the SpheRx PPS 6.25mm Lock
Screws, using the Lock Screw Starter (Fig. 63). If necessary,
align the “timing marks” on the Lock Screw and the Tulip prior
to insertion to facilitate thread engagement.
(Fig. 61)
(Fig. 62) (Fig. 63)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 8:
SPhERx® PPS hEAd ATTAChMENT
ANd ROd PLACEMENT (CONT.)
Place the Counter-Torque over one of the Tulips. With the
Torque T-Handle engaged to the Lock Screw Driver, place
through the Counter-Torque to engage the Lock Screw, and
tighten until the T-Handle breaks free (Fig. 64). Repeat with
the other Tulip (Fig. 65).
Alternatively, the Tulips may be placed with DBR® II Guides
attached, using the Head Inserter and Verification Torque
T-Handle. This is typically performed to enable multiple-level
DBR II fixation (for example, to apply DBR II to additional levels
of XLIF®).
Refer to the SpheRx PPS and SpheRx DBR II Technique Guides
for detailed instructions.
(Fig. 65)
(Fig. 64)
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M A S ® T L I F S U R G I C A L T E C H N I q U E
STEP 9:
CONTRALATERAL FIxATION USING SPhERx® PPS
WITh dBR® II (OPTIONAL)
Use the technique described in the SpheRx PPS Technique
Guide to assemble a SpheRx PPS Tulip to a cannulated PPS
Screw Shank in the SpheRx PPS cannulated screw caddy,
and use the Verification Torque T-Handle to verify proper
attachment. Attach the assembled screw to a DBR