Lateral Surgical Approach to Lumbar Intervertebral Discs in an Ovine Model
Figure 4
(a) Division of thoracolumbar fascia at its attachment to the transverse processes allows entry into retroperitoneal space. Erector spinae muscle is retracted laterally. (b) With the thoracolumbar fascia divided the psoas muscle becomes visible. The peritoneum can be carefully separated from the posterior abdominal wall musculature with blunt dissection. (c) Psoas muscle retracted laterally and abdomen retracted medially revealing the intervertebral disc (arrow).
