Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF)
If you have a condition like degenerative disc disease (DDD) that affects the discs in your lower back, anterior lumbar interbody fusion may be the surgical option you need. This surgery provides optimal access to the L5 to S1 segment of the lower lumbar region, reaching the vertebrae from the front.
Dr. Rojeh Melikian, M.D., has specialized expertise in ALIF, and our team uses minimally invasive techniques to support better patient outcomes. Same-day surgery may be an option for qualified patients.
What Is XLIF Surgery?
Extreme lateral interbody fusion is a spine surgery that accesses the spine laterally from the side of the body, avoiding major nerves, blood vessels, and back and abdominal muscles. Many surgeons opt for XLIF to correct spinal alignment in the mid to lower lumbar segment at L4 to L5 rather than cutting through major muscle groups.
During the procedure, the surgeon uses X-ray technology to locate the disc to be removed. An incision is made in the side of the body, and tubular dilators are inserted through the muscle on the side of the vertebrae. A tissue retractor is placed over the tubular dilators. The disc is removed, and an implant is put in its place.
What Does XLIF Surgery Treat?
XLIF surgery can help patients who have a variety of back issues, including certain multilevel conditions. Common conditions treated include:
- Chronic lower back pain
- Spondylolisthesis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Adjacent segment disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Scoliosis
- Spinal instability
Who Benefits From Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion?
XLIF is an excellent option for people who are looking for minimally invasive surgical options for their back condition. This treatment typically offers:
- A rapid recovery timeline.
- Minimal soft tissue, blood vessel and muscle disruption.
- Reduced pain and blood loss after surgery.
- Same day or outpatient discharge.
Key Differences Between XLIF and ALIF
XLIF and anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) are both spinal fusion procedures that treat spinal disorders, with some important differences in:
- Access point: ALIF accesses the spinal column from the front of the body, while XLIF enters through the side of the body.
- Muscle disruption: ALIF generally involves cutting through, retracting, splitting or spreading the lower abdominal muscles, so post-op recovery may require repairing these muscles. Since XLIF goes into the side of the body, it reduces disruption to the muscles in the back and abdomen.
- Vertebrae fusion: ALIF surgery is most commonly used for accessing the L5 to S1 region of the spinal column. Since the hip bone blocks side access to the L5 to S1 segment, XLIF surgery is ideal for replacing discs above this region.
- Posture correction results: Approaching the vertebrae laterally is often a smart surgical approach for correcting spinal alignment in cases of scoliosis or spine deformities compared to an anterior approach.
Choose Rojeh Melikian, M.D., for XLIF Surgery in Southern California
Dr. Rojeh Melikian is a board-certified spine surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques to treat spinal disorders. This surgical approach to XLIF and other surgeries helps patients experience pain relief. We work with patients in Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Marina del Rey, and across Southern California to provide compassionate, patient-first care.
Schedule a Consultation Today
An advanced approach to lateral lumbar fusion with Dr. Melikian can help you manage your pain and return to an active lifestyle. Schedule a video or phone consultation by calling 949-806-6946 or contacting us online. We can also provide a second opinion on your spine surgery to help you determine the best option for your back pain.