Procedure
Anterior Lumbar Fusion (ALIF)
Anterior lumbar interbody fusion, or ALIF, reaches the lower lumbar disc space through the abdomen so the damaged disc can be removed and replaced with a structural spacer. Atlas can help explain why Dr. Iyer may use this approach to restore disc height, indirectly open the nerve spaces, and build strong support for fusion at carefully chosen levels.
Why ALIF is chosen
ALIF is often useful when restoring disc height, lordosis, and anterior column support is central to the reconstructive goal. It can be a strong option for selected patients with degenerative disc collapse, spondylolisthesis, or alignment problems at the lower lumbar levels.
How the surgery works
The surgeon approaches the spine from the front, removes the damaged disc, and places an interbody implant that restores height and helps prepare the segment for fusion. Because the disc space is reached directly, a larger cage can often be inserted than with some posterior-only techniques.
Potential advantages
By restoring disc height from the front, ALIF can improve foraminal dimensions and alignment while avoiding direct dissection around the spinal nerves from the back. It is often paired with posterior instrumentation when additional stability is needed to complete the construct.
Recovery and planning
The success of ALIF depends on level selection, vascular access considerations, alignment goals, and whether a combined anterior-posterior strategy is appropriate. Recovery then follows the broader principles of lumbar fusion, with attention to wound healing, mobility, and progression toward solid fusion.
Use Atlas for the Next Step
Ask follow-up questions in plain language about symptoms, treatment pathways, and how this topic connects to your visit with Dr. Iyer.