What Spinal Conditions Are Most Commonly Treated with Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF)?

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is a minimally invasive spinal procedure designed to treat a range of degenerative spinal conditions. By accessing the spine through a lateral approach, LLIF allows Dr. Tumialán to avoid major back muscles and structures, often resulting in reduced recovery time, less postoperative pain, and minimal blood loss compared to traditional open surgeries.
 

Degenerative Disc Disease

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion is frequently used to treat Degenerative Disc Disease, a condition where the intervertebral discs break down over time. Degeneration can lead to back pain, instability, and nerve compression. LLIF helps restore disc height and stabilize the spine by inserting a spacer and promoting a fusion of bone between the vertebrae.
 

Spondylolisthesis

In cases where one vertebra slips forward over another (a condition known as spondylolisthesis), lateral lumbar interbody fusion can help realign the spine and restore stability. Stabilization is especially beneficial for patients who experience nerve compression or spinal instability due to the misalignment.
 

Spinal Stenosis

Although lateral lumbar interbody fusion does not directly decompress nerves like traditional laminectomy procedures, the procedure indirectly relieves pressure by restoring disc height and opening up the foraminal spaces where nerves exit the spine. LLIF is often used in combination with other procedures for patients with mild to moderate spinal stenosis.
 

Recurrent Disc Herniation

For patients who have had previous lumbar disc surgeries and continue to experience symptoms due to recurrent herniation, lateral lumbar interbody fusion offers a stabilizing solution that bypasses scar tissue from prior posterior approaches. Clean planes of dissection allows for effective treatment while minimizing risks associated with revision surgeries.
 

Adult Degenerative Scoliosis

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion is an excellent option for correcting spinal alignment in adult scoliosis cases. The lateral approach provides broad access to the intervertebral disc space, making it possible to place large implants that help restore alignment, height, and spinal balance.
 

Why Choose Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion?

Compared to traditional spinal fusion techniques, lateral lumbar interbody fusion offers several key advantages, including smaller incisions, less disruption to surrounding muscles, a lower risk of infection, and a faster overall recovery and hospital discharge time. However, LLIF is not suitable for every patient. It is typically recommended for individuals who require access to the thoracolumbar junction or lumbar spine and who do not have significant anterior vascular obstacles that would complicate the lateral approach.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion is a versatile, minimally invasive surgical option for treating a variety of spinal conditions including degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and adult scoliosis. With the right patient selection and surgical expertise, this approach can lead to significant improvements in pain relief, spinal stability, and overall quality of life.
 

If you're dealing with chronic back pain or have been diagnosed with a spinal condition that may benefit from surgical intervention, Dr. Luis M. Tumialán offers comprehensive evaluations and advanced treatment options tailored to your needs. Schedule your consultation today to find out if lateral lumbar interbody fusion is right for you. Visit our office Scottsdale, Arizona, or call (480) 771-0700 to book an appointment today.