Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF or XLIF)
A Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) is a minimally invasive procedure that allows for placement of an intervertebral body device similar to what is seen in an anterior lumbar interbody fusion but through a small incision in the side.
The approach utilizes real time neuromonitoring and image guidance with fluoroscopy, navigation, or robotics. Through the restoration of intervertebral height an indirect decompression of the neural elements can be achieved. The indirect decompression can be supplemented with a laminectomy and foraminotomy to achieve an excellent decompression.
Posterior based instrumentation can be used to help stabilize the spine and promote healing of the bone. LLIF is often used to address problems that have developed adjacent to a prior fusion and can help avoid posterior scar tissue from prior surgeries. LLIF allows for the potential for symptomatic relief, improvement in quality of life with a potential for a shorter hospital stay.
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Conditions Related To LLIF
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.
