Lateral Interbody Fusion

A lateral interbody fusion is one of several ways surgeons can access the lumbar spine.

Unlike traditional approaches through the back or front, this procedure approaches the spine from the side. This approach is particularly useful for:

• Certain types of scoliosis

• Spinal deformity

• Spinal misalignment

• Conditions requiring restoration of disc height and alignment

The lateral approach provides a unique mechanical advantage that allows surgeons to correct specific spinal problems while using a minimally invasive technique.

Lateral interbody fusion is performed under general anesthesia.

During surgery:

• A small incision is made in the patient’s side

• The abdominal muscles are gently separated rather than cut

• The surgeon carefully works around the abdominal contents to reach the spine

• The psoas muscle is retracted to access the disc space

• The damaged disc is removed

• A large interbody cage is placed to restore disc height and alignment

• Additional stabilization may be performed depending on the patient’s needs

In some cases:

• The surgery is performed as a standalone procedure

• It may be combined with a posterior fusion

• Multiple levels can be treated during the same operation

Depending on the complexity of the procedure, patients may go home the same day or stay one night in the hospital.

Recovery following a lateral interbody fusion is often faster than traditional posterior fusion procedures.

Day of Surgery

• Some patients return home the same day

• Others stay overnight for observation

First Few Weeks

• Walking and light activity are encouraged

• Activity is gradually increased as healing progresses

6-8 Weeks

• Most patients have resumed many normal daily activities

• Continued improvement in strength and mobility is expected

Recovery timelines vary depending on the number of levels treated and whether additional procedures were performed.

The goal of lateral interbody fusion is to improve spinal alignment, stabilize the spine, and relieve symptoms caused by instability or deformity.

Potential benefits include:

• Improved spinal alignment

• Restoration of disc height

• Reduced nerve compression

• Less muscle disruption than traditional approaches

• Reduced blood loss

• Faster recovery compared to some posterior fusion techniques

• High fusion and healing rates

For appropriately selected patients, this approach can provide significant improvement in pain, function, and quality of life.

Every surgery carries risks, though serious complications are uncommon.

Most Common Risk

• Temporary nerve irritation

• Temporary numbness, weakness, or altered sensation in the leg

Because the procedure is performed near nerves located along the side of the spine, these nerves can occasionally become irritated during surgery.

Rare Risks

• Permanent nerve injury

• Blood vessel injury

• Bowel injury

• Ureter injury

These serious complications occur in less than 1% of cases.