The XLIF procedure can be used for a variety of lumbar spinal disorders that may be treated with spinal fusion. These conditions may include:

  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Degenerative scoliosis
  • Low grade spondylolisthesis
  • Spinal deformity
  • Foraminal stenosis (a type of spinal stenosis) requiring disc height restoration
  • Recurrent lumbar disc herniations

The XLIF Procedure:

After you have been positioned, an X-ray will be taken to help your doctor precisely locate the operative space. In this minimally invasive procedure you will be made to sleep on your side and the surgery is performed from side of the body. Your surgeon makes two incisions one over the side of waist and the other towards the back muscles. Your surgeon will use the latest instrumentation to access the spine in a minimally disruptive manner. Disc preparation is the next step. This is done by removing the disc tissue which will allow the bones to be fused together. Several X-rays will be taken during this stage to ensure the preparation is correct. Once the disc has been prepared, the surgeon will then place a stabilizing implant into the space to restore the disc height and enable the spine to once again support necessary loads. Once in position, a final X-ray will be taken to confirm correct implant placement. In the event that further stabilization is necessary, the surgeon may choose to insert additional screws, rods, or plates into the vertebrae.

How long will it take me to Recover?

The XLIF procedure involves minimal muscle disruption and offers less painful post-operative recovery. Also this procedure minimizes the hospital stay and patient may have faster recovery.

As with any type of spinal fusion surgery, the recovery experience for an XLIF procedure varies from patient to patient:

  • Many patients notice a difference in their pre-operative symptoms such as leg pain, etc. immediately after surgery. In other patients, pre-operative symptoms often go away gradually.
  • Pain at the incision sites after surgery is normal and should be expected. This pain should eventually go away and should be easily controlled with oral pain medication that is prescribed upon discharge from the hospital.

Because the XLIF surgery only splits muscles (like an ALIF) but does not cut muscles (like a PLIF), many patients are able to get up and walk around the night after they have had surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, a discussion detailing all potential risks of the XLIF procedure should take place between the physician and the patient.