The groundbreaking operation was carried out at University Hospital Dubrava in Zagreb by a multidisciplinary team of spinal, vascular and laparoscopic surgeons. The procedure involved an anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), a technique used to treat degenerative spinal conditions, chronic lower back pain and spinal instability by accessing the spine through the abdomen rather than the back.
What makes the operation particularly significant is that it was performed laparoscopically, using only small incisions and specialized instruments. Unlike traditional open spinal surgery, the minimally invasive approach reduces tissue damage, blood loss and postoperative pain, while allowing patients to recover more quickly and shortening hospital stays.
According to the medical team, the procedure required close cooperation between specialists from several disciplines, reflecting the growing importance of multidisciplinary treatment in complex spinal surgery. The successful operation demonstrates that Croatian hospitals are increasingly adopting advanced surgical techniques that are already considered best practice in many leading European medical centres.
Lower back disorders remain among the leading causes of disability worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. Advances such as laparoscopic ALIF offer new treatment options for carefully selected patients, particularly those suffering from degenerative disc disease, spinal deformities or instability that has not responded to conservative therapy.
The achievement also highlights Croatia’s continued investment in modernizing its healthcare system and expanding access to cutting-edge medical procedures. As hospitals continue introducing advanced surgical technologies, patients are expected to benefit from safer operations, faster rehabilitation and improved long-term clinical outcomes.
Beyond its clinical importance, the successful procedure positions University Hospital Dubrava among the regional medical centres capable of performing highly specialized minimally invasive spine surgery, reinforcing Croatia’s growing reputation for medical innovation and excellence in Southeast Europe.
