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Lumbar – Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion(ALIF)
An anterior lumbar interbody fusion(ALIF) is performed to remove alarge portion of a degenerated discthat is frequently the source of backor leg pain. This procedure makesspace between the vertebral bodies,relieving pressure and creating moreroom for spinal nerves to exit. It iscalled an anterior procedurebecause the spine is approachedfrom the front. Unlike posteriorapproaches (from the back), theanterior approach avoids damage tothe low back muscles. The removeddisc portion is replaced withimplanted bone grafting materialsand adjacent vertebral bodies fuse toprovide support.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something inthis printout. Copyright © 2012, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Hugh D. McPherson, MD • 14100 E. Arapahoe Road, Suite B-370 • Centennial, CO 80112 • 303-699-7325
www.peakorthopedics.com/content/welcome-peak-orthopedics-spine
IntroductionAn anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is performed to removea large portion of a degenerated disc that is frequently the sourceof back or leg pain. This procedure makes space between thevertebral bodies, relieving pressure and creating more room forspinal nerves to exit. It is called an anterior procedure because thespine is approached from the front. Unlike posterior approaches(from the back), the anterior approach avoids damage to the lowback muscles. The removed disc portion is replaced withimplanted bone grafting materials and adjacent vertebral bodiesfuse to provide support.
Incision and Disc RemovalAn incision is made on the lower abdomen, usually just left to themiddle of the body. Through this incision, exposure is provided tothe front of the lumbar spine. Surgical instruments are used toremove some or all of the degenerated disc. If part of the discmaterial is spared, it is often retained to enclose bone graftimplants.
FusionThe disc space between the vertebrae is prepared to accept acage that will take place of the disc. Next, bone graft material isplaced in the cage. The cages is then inserted between thevertebral bodies to provide stability while new bone grows in place,fusing the vertebrae.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something inthis printout. Copyright © 2012, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Hugh D. McPherson, MD • 14100 E. Arapahoe Road, Suite B-370 • Centennial, CO 80112 • 303-699-7325
www.peakorthopedics.com/content/welcome-peak-orthopedics-spine
SummaryThe incision is closed and dressed to complete the surgery.Patients will typically be hospitalized for 2-4 days and should avoidstrenuous activity for 6-12 weeks.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something inthis printout. Copyright © 2012, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Hugh D. McPherson, MD • 14100 E. Arapahoe Road, Suite B-370 • Centennial, CO 80112 • 303-699-7325
