Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is a spine surgery that involves approaching the spine from the front (anterior) of the body to remove all or part of a herniated disc from in between two adjacent vertebrae (interbody) in the lower back (lumbar spine), then fusing, or joining together, the vertebrae on either side of the remaining disc space using bone graft or bone graft substitute. This procedure may be performed as an open surgery or using minimally invasive techniques.
The graft material acts as a binding medium and also helps maintain normal disc height – as the body heals, the vertebral bone and bone graft eventually grow together and stabilize the spine. Instrumentation, such as rods, screws, plates, and cages, may also be used to support the vertebral structure during the healing process.
Depending on your condition, an ALIF may be done alone or in conjunction with another spinal fusion approach. Please discuss your fusion approach options thoroughly with your doctor, and rely on his or her judgment about which is most appropriate for your particular condition.
Why do I need this procedure?
There are a number of reasons your surgeon may recommend spinal fusion. This procedure is frequently used to treat:
- One or more fractured (broken) vertebrae
- Spondylolisthesis (slippage of one vertebral bone over another)
- Abnormal curvatures of the spine, such as scoliosis or kyphosis
- Protruding or degenerated discs (the cartilaginous “cushions” between vertebrae)
- Instability of the spine (abnormal or excessive motion between two or more vertebrae)
Patients with low back and/or leg pain due to degenerative disc disease, spondylolysis/spondylolisthesis, or other spinal instability that have not responded to non-surgical treatment measures (rest, physical therapy, or medications) may be suitable candidates for an ALIF. ALIF as a stand-alone technique is usually not recommended for people whose bones have become very soft due to osteoporosis or for patients with instability or arthritis.
Your surgeon will take a number of factors into consideration before recommending an ALIF, including the condition to be treated, your age, health, lifestyle, and your anticipated level of activity following surgery. Please discuss this treatment option thoroughly with your spinal care provider.
How is an ALIF performed?
For an ALIF procedure, the patient is positioned on his or her side and sedated under general anesthesia. The surgeon then:
- Makes an incision in the abdomen and retracts the abdominal muscles, organs, and vascular structures for a clear view of the front of the spine and access to the vertebrae.
- Removes all or part of the degenerated disc(s) from the affected disc space, and inserts bone graft or bone graft substitute into the disc space between the vertebral bodies, to support the disc space and promote bone healing.
- Returns the abdominal organs, blood vessels, and muscles to their normal place and closes the incision.
OrthoNC offers comprehensive spine expertise
OrthoNC’s spine specialists diagnose spine problems and design custom treatment plans built on a conservative, non-surgical approach. Most patients find relief through treatments including guided injections, specialized physical therapy, exercise, activity modification, and medication. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, our highly skilled surgeon offers proven, evidence-based surgical options. Together with you, we will determine the right course of action.
Start your journey to a healthy spine. Find your spine expert, make an appointment online, or call us at (919) 562-9410 to schedule a spine consultation.