Lateral lumbar interbody fusion is a minimally invasive approach to lumbar fusion performed through a small incision in the side of the body. By accessing the spine through the flank rather than the back or abdomen, LLIF avoids disruption of the back muscles and allows placement of a large interbody cage for solid fusion and deformity correction.
Lateral lumbar interbody fusion may be an option if you have:
Important: Not every patient is a candidate for LLIF. Dr. DelSole will evaluate your imaging and clinical presentation to determine whether LLIF, traditional fusion, or another approach is the best option for your specific condition.
1-2 hours per level, depending on the complexity of fusion and need for supplemental posterior fixation.
Typically 1-2 nights. Many patients go home after one night and recover at home with family support.
Most patients are walking the same day. Return to light activity 2-3 weeks, normal activity 4-6 weeks.
Large cage footprint allows superior lordosis correction and fusion rates compared to traditional posterolateral fusion.
Through a small incision in the flank, the psoas muscle is carefully traversed using real-time nerve monitoring to safely access the disc space. The disc is removed and a large interbody cage filled with bone graft is placed. The lateral approach preserves the posterior muscles and ligaments of the spine. Supplemental posterior fixation with percutaneous screws is typically performed at the same setting.
Why the Lateral Approach? By accessing the spine from the side rather than from the front (anterior) or back (posterior), LLIF avoids the need to retract or damage the paraspinal muscles. This translates to less tissue trauma, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open lumbar fusion approaches.
Keystone Spine and Pain Management
2607 Keiser Blvd, Suite 200
Wyomissing, PA 19610