What is Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion?
Anterior lumbar interbody fusion is a spinal surgery that is done to help alleviate symptoms of spinal conditions like degenerative disc disease. This technique fuses two or more of the vertebrae in the lower back together to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves and stabilize the spine. During an ALIF the surgeon accesses the vertebrae through incision in the abdomen, rather than going through the back.
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Who is a Candidate for ALIF?
A candidate for anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is typically a patient experiencing chronic, disabling back pain originating from lumbar spine conditions such as disc degeneration, spondylolisthesis, degenerative scoliosis, or recurrent herniated disc in the lower lumbar segments of the spine. Ideal candidates would benefit from maximum restoration of disc height to relieve pain and have not responded to non-surgical treatments. The procedure is most suitable for those who are at a healthy weight with disc collapse at the lowest lumbar levels. Patients should have instability in the lumbar spine causing nerve impingement or stenosis resulting in pain, numbness, weakness, or other neurologic dysfunction that significantly impacts their daily activities.
Dr. Hughes is an amazing spinal surgeon. He does a great physical examination along with understanding the imaging. My operation for spinal stenosis went well and I started walking the next morning and came home the day after. The office is very responsive even though VERY busy. I went from a wreck to a mobile oldster in a vet short time.
David R.
You can’t find a better surgical facility than the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in NYC. It is state of the art for medical procedures combined with top notch doctors employing cutting edge technologies. Dr. Frank Cammisa is the best spinal surgeon in the country and a terrific and compassionate physician who takes the time to meet with you and analyze and discuss your particular situation. I can’t say enough about HSS and Dr. Cammisa and his staff.
Rudy M.
The Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Procedure
Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) is performed under general anesthesia, with the patient lying on their back. An expert SpineCare of NY surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to access the spine, carefully moving aside abdominal muscles and organs to reach the affected vertebrae. The damaged intervertebral disc is removed, and a bone graft or synthetic spacer is placed in the empty disc space to restore disc height and promote fusion. Instrumentation with screws or plates may be used to secure the graft and provide additional stability. The incision is then closed, and the patient is monitored as they begin the recovery process. ALIF aims to reduce pain, restore spinal alignment, and improve overall function by achieving solid bone fusion between the vertebrae.
ALIF Results and Recovery
The results and recovery from anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) included significant pain relief and improved function. Recovery typically involves a hospital stay of one to three days, during which patients are monitored for complications and begin mobilization. Initial recovery includes managing pain with medication and wearing a back brace for support. Physical therapy is crucial and starts soon after surgery to help regain strength and mobility. Most patients can return to light activities and desk work within a few weeks, but full recovery, including the fusion of the vertebrae, can take between six months to a year. Patients, in the majority of cases, will experience substantial long-term relief from symptoms
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about ALIF and if this surgical intervention can help usher in relief from your lumbar spinal condition, schedule a consultation at SpineCare of NY today. We look forward to creating a personalized treatment plan for you, in an effort to get your solution right the first time.
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