Anterior Approach Spinal Fusion | Anterior Retroperitoneal Spine Exposure | John Politz, M.D.

Board certified vascular surgeon Dr. John Politz works alongside spine surgeons when patients undergo anterior approach spinal fusion surgery to expose the spine in the front (anterior retroperitoneal spine exposure) which allows the spine surgeon easier access to the disc. The major blood vessels are all attached to the spine and have to be mobilized by a vascular surgeon in order to expose to the damaged disc that the spine surgeon is replacing with an implant.

Anterior approach spinal fusion allows for better outcomes because the spine surgeon is able to remove more of the disc and use a larger disc implant, which creates better contact with the bone. The incision is muscle sparring, meaning no muscles are cut to expose the spine, causing less pain and quicker recovery, and incisions in the front heal better and are cosmetically appealing.

Risks of anterior approach spinal fusion from a vascular standpoint include injury to the big blood vessels, infection, heart and lung problems due to anesthesia, blood clots or DVT, and breakdown of the skin wound. It is very rare, but the lymph nodes in the back of the abdominal can leak.

After surgery patients can expect pain, swelling, puffiness and gut discomfort. The first few days after surgery patients are restricted to a fluid and soft food diet.

Dr. Politz is board-certified in general and vascular surgery by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has served as the program director for vascular surgery for the general surgery residency at The University of Texas at Austin since its establishment. Dr. Politz has practiced with Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons since 1996.