Iliolumbar vein injuries in prepsoas lateral lumbar interbody fusion: strategies for prevention and management. Illustrative case.

BACKGROUND

The prepsoas or oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) technique is widely used for its benefits of indirect decompression, restoration of lordosis and foraminal height, and good mechanical stability for fusion. However, there are potential dangers with such techniques, such as approach-related complications.

OBSERVATIONS: The authors describe the case of an iliolumbar vein (ILV) injury during an OLIF procedure and aim to provide a review of the relevant anatomy of the oblique corridor as well as the ILV.

LESSONS: Additionally, the authors aimed to highlight key surgical pearls for the prevention of such complications and provide management strategies. The authors believe that the OLIF technique is a powerful tool in the spine surgeon's armamentarium, and a sound understanding of the anatomy and knowledge of preventing potential surgical complications are key to success in OLIF. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE24743.