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Anterior lumbar interbody fusion is a back spinal surgery that involves approaching the spine through the anterior (front), usually through the abdomen. University Spine Associates generally recommends this procedure for degenerative disc conditions, such as scoliosis, spondylothisthesis, or degenerative disc disease, that cause back or leg pain. This spinal surgery procedure aims to restore spinal alignment, decompress the exiting nerve roots, and obtain of a fusion of the intervertebral space.
An anterior lumbar interbody fusion begins with an incision in the patient’s abdomen to access the spine. The abdominal and vascular structures are retracted to allow a clear view of the spine. The degenerative disc is cleaned out, leaving a disc space. This disc space is then restored with spacers (cages) that are filled with bone graft or Bone Morphogenic Protein (BMP). Overtime, the spinal column and bone graft will fuse together to restore full support. Anterior lumbar interbody fusion is often accompanied by a posterior spinal surgery as well such as a posterior spinal fusion. Some patients are candidates for a limited stand alone anterior lumbar interbody fusion. Depending on the individual patient diagnosis, spinal surgery may include several levels of anterior lumbar interbody fusion or a single level.
Post Spinal Surgery Recovery
After a lumbar interbody fusion, the patient is usually kept in the hospital for two to five days, depending on the post-operative treatment plan. The patient is generally able to walk a day after surgery before beginning a specific rehabilitation and exercise plan to return to normal life as soon as possible. University Spine Associates works closely with all patients to develop specific post-operative care plans for recovery and will continually monitor all patients to ensure successful rehabilitation. |
