Minimally invasive back surgery may offer same benefits with fewer risks

NCT ID NCT01640977

Completed Disease control Sponsor: NuVasive Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compared two surgical techniques for treating lumbar degenerative disc disease: traditional open surgery (open PLIF) and a newer, less invasive version (MAS PLIF). Researchers tracked complications and pain relief in 67 adults who needed spinal fusion. The goal was to see if the less invasive approach could offer similar or better results with fewer side effects.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery, either open or minimally invasive (MAS PLIF)
What this could lead to: If MAS PLIF proves safer or equally effective with fewer complications, it could become a preferred surgical option for patients with lumbar disc disease.
What could go wrong: This is a small, observational study (67 participants) comparing two surgical techniques, not a randomized trial. Results may not apply to all patients, and any surgery carries risks like infection or nerve damage.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for LUMBAR DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

intervertebral disk degenerative disorder lumbar disk degenerative disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

LUMBAR DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Kuether Brain and Spine

Greensboro, North Carolina, 27401, United States
Nova Neurosurgical Brain and Spine

Greensboro, North Carolina, 27401, United States
Scott and White Healthcare

Temple, Texas, 76508, United States
WellSpan Orthopedics-York

York, Pennsylvania, 17405, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.