Unilateral versus bilateral pedicle screw fixation in lumbar interbody fusion: A meta-analysis of complication and fusion rate

Seven randomized studies (n=501) were included in this meta-anlysis comparing unilateral pedicle screw fixation and bilateral pedicle screw fixation in lumbar interbody fusion. The purpose was to determine if there was a difference between the two treatments concerning complication rate, fusion rate, and the incidence of cage migration. Pooling of studies indicated that similar complication rates and fusion were were demonstrated by the two groups, however the incidence of cage migration was higher with unilateral pedicle screw fixation.