Table 1. Options vs. level. Based on the anatomy of access, the following options are suitable depending on lumbar level performed.
| Option/level | L5/S1 | L4/5 | L3/4 | L2/3 | T12/L1/2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLIF | +++ | +++ | +++ | +++ | ++ |
| TLIF | +++ | +++ | +++ | +++ | ++ |
| ALIF | +++ | +++ | + | – | – |
| LLIF | – | +++ | +++ | +++ | ++ |
| OLIF/ATP | ++ | +++ | +++ | +++ | + |
+, fair option; ++, good option; +++, excellent option; -, poor option/not suitable. PLIF, posterior lumbar interbody fusion; TLIF, transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion; ALIF, anterior lumbar interbody fusion; LLIF, lateral lumbar interbody fusion; OLIF, oblique lumbar interbody fusion; ATP, anterior to psoas.