XLIF
Dr. Radcliff uses the XLIF (eXtreme Lateral Interbody Fusion) procedure to treat a number of spinal conditions, including:
- Degenerative Discs, Lumbar Stenosis, and Spondylolisthesis – These conditions can cause excessive motion between the joints, and spinal fusion restores stability.
- Herniated discs – When these are removed, your spine can destabilize. Fusing the vertebrae can provide stabilization.
XLIF is a minimally invasive spine surgery done through a smaller incision. Benefits can include:
- Less muscle disruption
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Reduced operation time
- Reduced post-operative pain
- Reduced hospital stay
- Reduced recovery time
Procedure
During the minimally invasive XLIF procedure, Dr. Radcliff will access the disc space using a surgical approach from the side (lateral) through an incision just above the hip bone rather than from the front or back. He then places a spacer filled with bone graft between the two vertebrae to restore height and relieve nerve pinching. As your body begins to heal, new bone grows around the graft or implant, fusing the two vertebrae into one solid piece of bone.
Recovery
As with any surgery, recovery for XLIF will depend on the patient. However, most patients can expect the following:
- Decrease in pain – Many patients will notice an immediate difference in their pre-operative pain level. Some, however, will experience a gradual reduction in pre-operative pain.
- Pain at the incision site – This is normal and should be expected. It can usually be controlled with oral pain medication and should eventually go away.
Total recovery time is relatively short. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks or months after surgery. Most patients spend one to three nights in the hospital, depending on your medical condition and the extent of the surgery.