Objective:

To compare the results of interbody fusion in patients undergoing minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) using demineralized bone matrix (DBM) alone versus DBM+ recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP2).

Methods:

This retrospective case-controlled study was conducted in patients undergoing minimally invasive LLIF (n = 54) for lumbar interbody fusion were divided into two groups: DBM only group and DMB+rhBMP2 group. The improvements of segmental and lumbar lordosis and restoration of disc height were measured, and the interbody fusion rates were determined using a modified Bridwell grading system. Clinical outcomes after surgery, such as visual analog scale scores of back pain and leg pain, and Oswestry disability index were compared.

Results:

There were no significant differences in disc height, lumbar and segmental lordosis, or interbody fusion rate between the two groups. However, the proportion of Bridwell grade 1 as complete interbody bridging was higher in the DBM+rhBMP2 group than in the DBM alone group at both 6 and 12 months (P < 0.001). Clinical parameters showed equally significant improvement during follow-up in both groups, with no significant differences between the groups.

Conclusion:

In minimally invasive LLIF, adding Escherichia coli-derived rhBMP2 (EBMP2) to DBM did not affect clinical outcomes or radiation parameters, but increased the speed of fusion and interbody bony bridging rate.