Introduction
ALIF or Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion is a surgery performed to treat degenerative disc disease. It can be used as a last-resort option to treat any ailment wherein the discs are damaged and there is pressure on the spinal nerves. In this procedure, the damaged discs are replaced with bone grafts. These grafts gradually fuse with the adjacent vertebrae.
It is named this way because the surgeon accesses the front (anterior) of your lower back (lumbar) by making an incision in the abdomen, allowing them to insert a bone graft between the vertebra (interbody) which goes on to join (fusion) with the adjacent vertebra.
Why is it performed?
By fusing the lumbar vertebrae, ALIF is used to alleviate lower back discomfort brought on by spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, or spinal instability. Particularly when conservative measures have failed, the goals of this operation are to stabilize the spine, lessen nerve irritation, and relieve pain.
How is it performed?
To reach the spine from the front, the surgeon creates an incision in the lower abdomen. To restore height and encourage fusion between the vertebrae, the injured disc is removed and replaced with a bone graft or implant in the disc space. As the bones gradually fuse, the spine can be held in place using plates, screws, or rods. This anterior technique helps lessen postoperative pain since it avoids severing the back muscles.
Possible complications
ALIF offers benefits such as reduced muscle disruption, but there are still risks involved, which can include the following complications.
- Danger of harming the organs or blood vessels in the abdomen
- Blood clots or infections
- Leg pain or injury to the nerves (sciatica)
- Failure of the bone to fuse or non-union
- Chronic pain in the lower back
Recovery Period
The average recovery time for ALIF is three to six months. Patients may require physical treatment to improve their core and back muscles as well as the use of a brace for support. After 6 to 8 weeks, most people can resume mild employment, avoiding hard lifting for several months.