XLIF: Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion in New Jersey

What is Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion?

Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion, which is also known as Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF), is a newer fusion technique for the relief of persistent lumbar region, or lower back, pain. XLIF is performed from the side of the body rather than the back. Interbody fusion refers to the removal of an interverterbal disc, which is replaced with a bone spacer, and the adjacent vertebrae are fused together.

XLIF can be used to treat nerve compression, disc space collapse, spondylothesis and other painful lower back conditions. After obtaining images of the spine with MRI and CT scans, a physician can determine just what type of implant would be best suited to correct the problem.

This surgery is different from other forms of fusion because it uses a side approach. Approaches from the posterior, or back, necessitate the disturbance of muscles, nerves, blood vessels and ligaments in the back. Approaches from the anterior, or front, of the body pass through the abdominal muscles and come near the aorta and other vascular structures and urinary organs. By approaching from the side of the body, the spine can be reached with a minimal amount of risk and tissue damage. In addition, the side approach to the spine provides access to the damaged disc without the need for removing vertebral bone. Since the XLIF process is minimally invasive to the muscles and tissues at the site, complications are generally fewer and recovery is faster and easier than with other fusion procedures. However, it can only be performed on vertebrae that can be reached from the side and no more than two levels can generally be treated.

The XLIF: Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion Procedure

The XLIF procedure is performed under general anesthesia with the patient lying on his or her side on an operating table. The treatment site is cleansed with an antiseptic and the surgeon makes two very small incisions in the side of the body near the affected area. A probe is inserted to identify the location of nerve tissue in order to avoid it and reduce the risk of nerve damage. Dilators are used to separate and gently retract the muscles. An imaging device will ensure that the precise vertebrae are targeted. Next, the injured disc, bone spurs or any other nearby debris are then taken out. This restores room for the nerves that have been compressed, relieving pain and symptoms in the lower back and legs.

To fill the space that has been created, a bone graft or bone morphogenetic proteins are then attached in the open disc area along with any necessary instrumentation to promote stability in the spine. Dr. Lipani carefully inserts the spacer that contains the graft material, avoiding the spinal cord and nerves present nearby. In addition, metal plates, rods and screws are attached as needed to hold the spinal bones in place while fusion is occurring.

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is an FDA-approved treatment used in conjunction with spinal fusion surgery to stimulate bone growth within the treated area and achieve optimal results without the need for a bone graft. However, bone grafts taken from another part of the patient’s own body or obtained from donor bone are also highly successful.

Once complete, imaging is used again to confirm the placement of the spacer and instrumentation. The surgeon can then close up the incisions with sutures. The XLIF surgery may vary in length, generally lasting between one and three hours, depending on the extent of the damage in the spine.

Which Patients Should Consider the XLIF Procedure?

The doctor may recommend XLIF for you if you have spinal instability or pain related to a herniated disc, spondylolisthesis, degenerative scoliosis, or disc degeneration. Having these conditions does not mean that XLIF is the ideal procedure for you, though. The doctor will perform a comprehensive consultation and examination to identify which segment of your spine is affected and whether that segment can be accessed using this lateral fusion procedure.

How Does the XLIF Procedure Compare to Other Spine Procedures?

Every spine procedure is performed in a unique manner to successfully repair injuries or structural irregularities. Many of the surgeries that are done today involve minimally invasive surgical techniques. The XLIF procedure is one of them. Its uniqueness lies in the lateral approach taken to reach the spine. Where many other minimally invasive spine surgeries access the spine from the front or the back of the body, the XLIF surgery comes in from the side. This sets it apart from other procedures in terms of not only approach but also recovery time and level of risk.

How Should I Prepare for My XLIF Procedure?

Our goal for your surgery is that the procedure is as safe as possible, which requires your body to be prepared for the stress of your treatment. During your consultation for spinal fusion surgery, it is important that we are informed about any and all medications that you take. This is not limited to prescription drugs. Tell the doctor about over-the-counter medications, supplements, and any recreational drugs you use. There are certain substances that must be avoided in the weeks before surgery. You must also avoid smoking and tobacco use starting several weeks before your procedure. This enables your body to regain good circulation, which is vital during and after surgery. If you smoke, your surgical risks and chances for post-op complications increase significantly.

As you prepare for your spine surgery, it is also advantageous to drink plenty of water (at least 64 ounces a day) and eat a nutrient-dense diet. It can be helpful to add some extra fiber to your diet before surgery. This may offset the effects of your post-op prescription pain relievers, which can slow the gut and cause constipation.

Although the recovery from XLIF surgery is generally shorter than many other procedures, you may need to modify your home to some extent. It may be necessary to move frequently-used items so you can access them without having to bend or reach overhead.

Will I Need Physical Therapy After My XLIF Procedure?

You might. Completing a post-surgical rehabilitation program with a physical therapist can promote optimal healing. The exercises that are demonstrated are tailored to your body and the procedure you’ve had done. They are intended to strengthen the muscles around the surgical area, promote optimal circulation, and restore flexibility to the back or neck.

Recovery from an XLIF Procedure

After undergoing an XLIF procedure, patients will typically remain in the hospital for an overnight stay. A physical therapy regimen should be started soon after, as it is beneficial for regaining strength and full mobility. Certain activities may be restricted, including lifting objects, twisting the midsection and bending at the waist. Many patients can return to work two to three weeks following the procedure if their employment does not require strenuous exertion. After three months, patients may be cleared to resume some sports and more rigorous activities, but this will depend on the number of vertebrae fused during the surgery as well as each patient’s individual healing process.

Risks of an XLIF Procedure

While XLIF is considered a safe procedure, it is still a form of spinal surgery and it therefore carries some risks. While uncommon, the complications it is associated with include infection, muscle weakness, pain, hardware failure and graft failure.

If you would like more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, feel free to fill out our convenient contact form or call us directly at (609) 890-3400.

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