Have you been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, low-grade spondylolisthesis, or mild to moderate scoliosis, or have chronic back pain that hasn’t improved with physical therapy or other treatment methods? Then a lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) surgery might be the answer for you.
"Lateral lumbar fusion is a state-of-the-art spinal surgery where the spine is approached from the side to remove a damaged disc and replaces it with a bone graft. This approach stabilizes the spine, reduces pain, and restores mobility," said Dr. Mohamed Salar, a spinal surgeon at MSU Health Care who performs surgery at McLaren Greater Lansing. "What sets this procedure apart is that it's minimally invasive, leading to a faster recovery and less discomfort."
Spinal fusion refers to any surgery where two or more vertebrae are joined together. Interbody fusion is a more advanced technique that involves removing the damaged disc between the vertebrae and replacing it with a bone graft or implant, promoting natural bone growth and long-term spine stability.
Since this surgery uses a side approach (the patient is placed on their side for the surgery), the surgeon can reach vertebrae and intervertebral discs without needing to move nerves or go through muscles in the back. Because of this, the procedure is considered minimally invasive, which means smaller incisions and less muscle damage.
"For individuals who have been suffering from back pain and have not found relief through other treatments, this advanced, minimally invasive surgery can be a game-changer," said Dr. Salar. "For patients, this translates to less downtime, less pain, and a quicker return to daily activities."
Patients who undergo a LLIF surgery typically go home the same day or the next day if only one level is fused. If more than one level is fused, they can expect to stay overnight. Most patients can return to light activities within six to eight weeks, with full recovery expected in three to six months.
"The success rates of lumbar interbody fusion are remarkable; 80-90% of patients experience major pain relief and improved mobility, with fusion success rates as high as 90-95%," said Dr. Salar. "This surgery offers lasting results for many individuals with spine conditions."
Dr. Salar is currently the only surgeon in the greater Lansing area to offer this surgery. To learn more about how to schedule an appointment with Dr. Salar's office, contact MSU Health Care Sports Medicine at (517) 884-6100.
To learn more about the McLaren Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute, click here.
To read more articles on health and wellness, click here.