The present invention provides a spinal surgical approach which provides approaching the spine of a patient for spinal interbody fusion or total disc replacement through the oblique (a.k.a. anterior to psoas) corridor in an improved manner. Aspects of the invention further provide a means to facilitate the restoration of sagittal plane lordotic alignment. Other aspects of the invention provide a means to facilitate exposure of the spine and shorten operative times with fewer steps. In certain embodiments, aspects of the invention provide for improved instrumentation and devices to facilitate the surgical approach method so that it can be accomplished in a simpler and more effective manner.