Introduction
By using a minimally invasive technique known as Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion (OLIF), a surgeon can access and repair the lower (lumbar) spine from both the front and side of the body, traveling roughly halfway between the middle of the stomach and the side of the body.
The front or coronal plane of the lumbar spine may begin to distort in cases with advanced degenerative disk disease. Degenerative scoliosis is the name given to this age-dependent spinal abnormality. Chronic low back discomfort and/or pain radiating into one or both legs can result from degenerative scoliosis and lumbar spine instability, often known as spondylolisthesis.
Why is it performed?
By stabilizing the lumbar spine, OLIF helps treat diseases like scoliosis, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. Particularly in situations when standard posterior fusion could be too invasive, this technique is preferred for its minimally invasive approach, which attempts to decrease back pain, improve spinal alignment, and preserve mobility.
How is it performed?
In order to approach the spine less disruptively, the surgeon makes a tiny incision on the side of the belly to gain access to the spine. To encourage fusion, a cage filled with bone graft is positioned between the vertebrae after the injured disc has been removed. You can add rods or screws to give it more stability. By maintaining muscular integrity, the OLIF approach promotes a speedier recovery.
Possible complications
OLIF is a minimally invasive approach, yet it still carries some risk factors that should be considered.
Recovery following OLIF is usually quicker, taking two to four months on average. With an emphasis on progressively increasing mobility, patients may require a brief hospital stay of two to three days. After four to six weeks, light activities can typically be resumed, and three months later, more rigorous ones.
Recovery Period
It can take 3- 6 months to fully recover from spinal fusion. However, patients can resume doing minor tasks after few weeks. To stabilize the spine, patients may initially need to wear a brace. It is usually advised to undergo physical therapy to increase strength and mobility.