Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
An Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) is a surgical procedure used to treat conditions affecting the lumbar spine, such as degenerative disc disease, spinal instability, or deformities. ALIF involves approaching the spine through the front of the body, specifically the lower abdomen. During the ALIF procedure, an incision is made in the lower abdomen, providing access to the lumbar spine. With the assistance of a trained vascular surgeon, important vessels are secured and moved out of the surgical field.
The damaged or degenerated disc is removed from between two vertebrae, and a bone graft or a synthetic implant is inserted into the disc space. This bone graft encourages the growth of new bone, ultimately fusing the adjacent vertebrae together. The anterior approach allows for direct access to the intervertebral discs without disturbing the spinal muscles at the back, which can be particularly beneficial for certain spinal conditions. Additionally, spinal instrumentation such as screws or plates may be used to provide stability during the fusion process. ALIF aims to alleviate pain, restore spinal stability, and promote the fusion of vertebrae.
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Conditions Related To Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
Scoliosis
A scoliosis curve can occur in the thoracic spine, the lumbar spine, or both areas at the same time.
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, which runs from the lower spine to the top of the thigh bone, presses on the sciatic nerve.
Sciatica
The term sciatica refers to a type of radiculopathy, a pinching or compression of a nerve that occurs in the leg.
SI Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac (SI) joints are located where the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) meets the iliac bones (the large pelvic bones).
Lumbar Stenosis
Spinal stenosis describes narrowing inside the spinal canal and mainly occurs from a combination of aging and degenerative changes in the spine.
