Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) in Dallas, TX
Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) is a less invasive form of spinal fusion surgery. “Anterior” refers to the surgeon’s approach– through the front. Accessing the spine through the front of the body means that no back muscles need to be dissected, resulting in a faster, easier recovery with less pain. The use of an additional spinal access surgeon is necessary to provide safe exposures so that surgeons at Texas Spine Associates can perform the ALIF.
If you need ALIF surgery, don’t wait to see a specialist. For patients in the Dallas area, the team at Texas Spine Associates is here to help. Our spine surgeons are all members of the North American Spine Society and have extensive experience performing safe and effective ALIF procedures. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Arlington, Flower Mound, Fort Worth, Granbury, Irving, Southlake, or Weatherford.
Our surgeons work with the most experienced access surgeons in the country to use a muscle preserving techniques during the mini-ALIF procedures.
What Happens During ALIF?
An incision is made in the front of the spine. The type of incision is based on the location to be addressed. The L5-S1 segment can often be addressed through a horizontal C-section type incision versus the segments above that require a vertical incision below and possibly around the belly button. The access surgeon will then provide visualization of the affected disc by retracting the abdominal muscles, organs, and blood vessels. Once visualized and confirmed with intraoperative X-Ray, the damaged disc material is removed. A spacer is then placed between the vertebrae to maintain alignment, provide indirect decompression, and serve as a conduit for the fusion. Often a metal plate is placed to provide stability and to prevent migration of the graft.
Why ALIF?
There are several benefits to ALIF and Mini ALIF over traditional posterior approaches to spinal fusion surgery.
- With an anterior approach, the back muscles are not cut, making your recovery significantly easier and less painful.
- With a Mini ALIF, the abdominal muscles are not cut, reducing your recovery time even further.
- Spinal nerves that need to be manipulated for a posterior approach (PLIF) are not affected during ALIF.
- ALIF provides the greatest surface area for fusion and greatest ability to restore height and alignment.
Am I A Candidate for ALIF?
At Texas Spine Associates, Dr. Shah, Dr. Patel, and Dr. Happ will work with you diligently to determine your best treatment options. We will take the time to educate you and answer your questions. We believe in engaging our patients to empower them to make the best decision to suit their condition.
Schedule an ALIF Consultation
To see if you are a candidate for an ALIF or to learn your options for lumbar surgery in the Dallas area, please contact Texas Spine Associates and schedule an in-office consultation. Our board-certified spine surgeons have extensive experience performing safe and effective ALIF procedures, but only use surgical treatment options when necessary. Give us a call at (972) 987-0969 or request an appointment through our secure online form. We have offices in Arlington, Cleburne, Fort Worth, Flower Mound, Granbury, Irving, North Irving, Southlake, and Weatherford, TX.