Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion at Gerling Spine Care NYC

At Gerling Spine Care NY, we offer Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) to treat back and leg pain caused by degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, and more. This minimally invasive procedure stabilizes the spine, reduces pain, and helps New York patients regain mobility and return to their daily activities with a faster recovery.

What is Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion?

Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF), also known as Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF) or Direct Lateral Interbody Fusion (DLIF), is a minimally invasive spine surgery performed to fuse vertebrae in the lower back (lumbar region) through an incision made on the side of the body. The procedure aims to alleviate nerve compression and restore stability to the spine.

Dr. Michael Gerling, spine surgeon, holding a spine model and discussing treatment options with a patient

Indications for Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion

LLIF is commonly recommended for patients with conditions such as:

Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear on spinal discs.
Scoliosis: An abnormal curvature of the spine.
Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves.
Spondylolisthesis: When a vertebra slips out of its normal position.
Fractures and Infections of the spine.

However, LLIF may not be suitable for patients with severe vertebral displacement or nerve compression, or those with significant scarring from previous surgeries.

The LLIF Surgical Procedure

If non-surgical treatments fail to relieve your symptoms, your doctor may recommend Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion in NYC. The procedure takes about one hour and is performed under general anesthesia.

Incisions and Access: You will be positioned on your side, and small incisions will be made in your lower back and side. Surgeons use X-rays and nerve monitoring to ensure precision and avoid damage to nearby tissues.
Disc Removal and Implant Placement: The damaged intervertebral disc is removed, and the disc space is prepared for fusion. An implant, often filled with bone graft material, is placed in the disc space to promote fusion and maintain spinal alignment. Additional hardware, such as screws or plates, may be used to secure the implant.
Final X-rays and Closure: Once the implant is in place, X-rays confirm its position, and the small incisions are closed with stitches.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Recovery from LLIF varies by patient, but many are able to go home the same day or within a few days of the procedure. Immediate improvement in symptoms may occur, though some relief may take time. You may experience some discomfort at the incision sites, which is normal and can be managed with pain medication.

Because LLIF is minimally invasive, patients often start walking the night of surgery and return to normal activities within a few months. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid in recovery.

Benefits of Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion

The advantages of LLIF include:

Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and reduced scarring.
Shorter Surgical Time: Less time under anesthesia and quicker recovery.
Reduced Pain and Blood Loss: Less disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues.
Faster Recovery: Patients typically experience a quicker return to normal activities.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, LLIF comes with some risks, including:

Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis
Incomplete fusion of the vertebrae
Injury to nearby nerves or tissues
Infection, pneumonia, or urinary tract infection
Stroke or other medical complications

Despite these risks, LLIF is a safe and effective procedure that offers long-term relief from back pain and helps patients resume their normal daily activities.

Why Choose Gerling Spine Care NY?

At Gerling Spine Care NY, led by renowned spine specialist Dr. Michael Gerling, we are experts in minimally invasive spine surgery, including Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion. Our focus is on delivering personalized care with the most advanced techniques, ensuring you get back to your life as quickly and painlessly as possible.

If you are suffering from chronic back or leg pain, spinal instability, or other lumbar conditions, contact Gerling Spine Care to explore how Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion in NYC can help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.