Table 1.

Exclusion criteria/contraindications

Central or lateral spinal stenosis

Predominant radiculopathy

Facet joint arthrosis/symptomatic facet joint complaints

Spondylolysis/spondylolisthesis

Spinal instability (iatrogenic/altered posterior elements, e.g. following laminectomy)

Major deformity/curvature deviations (e.g. scoliosis)

Metabolic bone disease (e.g. manifest osteoporosis/osteopenia)

Previous operation with severe scarring and radiculopathy

Compromised vertebral body (irregular endplate shape)

Previous/latent infection

Metal allergy

Spinal tumour

Post-traumatic segments