Convenient Locations in Highland, Hobart, & Merrillville
Back pain has a way of taking over your life. When discomfort in your lower spine no longer responds to non-surgical care, it may be time to consider other options. For some people, lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) can relieve pressure on surrounding nerves.
At Bone & Joint Specialists in Merrillville, Indiana, our board-certified neurosurgeon regularly treats complex spine conditions and performs LLIF surgery. With on-site imaging, physical therapy, and a full orthopedic care team, they’ll evaluate your case carefully to determine whether this spinal procedure could work for you. Our neurosurgeon sees patients in Merrillville or Highland Indiana, so you can visit the location that’s most convenient for you.
What Is a Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion?
Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is a type of spinal fusion surgery that approaches the spine from the side of the body, instead of going through the back or abdomen. This technique is typically used to reduce ongoing lower back pain caused by issues in the lumbar spine.
Interbody fusion is a type of surgery where a damaged disc between two vertebrae is removed, and the surrounding bones are joined together. This connection is made using either a bone graft or bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), which is a lab-made material that also occurs naturally in the body.
LLIF can be used to treat nerve compression, disc degeneration, spondylolisthesis, and other painful lower back conditions.
Benefits and Limitations of LLIF
LLIF stands out from other spinal fusion procedures because it reaches the spine from the side rather than the back or front. This often causes less disruption to muscles and nearby structures, so you have a smoother recovery. However, it isn’t the right choice for every patient.
Some of the potential benefits of LLIF include:
- Accessing the spine through the side, avoiding major muscles and blood vessels
- Reaching the disc without removing bone
- Causing less tissue disruption, which may reduce complications
- A recovery process that is often shorter than with traditional fusion methods
Limitations to consider with LLIF include:
- Only works on spinal levels that can be reached from the side
- Usually limited to treating one or two levels
- Not used for the lowest vertebrae
- May not be suitable depending on your anatomy or condition
The LLIF Procedure
The surgical team uses real-time imaging to guide each step of the procedure. Here’s a general overview of what happens in a Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion:
- The procedure begins with a small incision on the side of your body.
- Your surgeon uses a thin probe to locate the affected disc and avoid healthy nerves.
- We then use dilators to gently separate the muscles rather than cutting through them.Â
- The surgeon removes the damaged disc, along with any nearby bone spurs or debris.
- A bone graft or bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is placed into the empty disc space to encourage new bone growth.
- We insert a spacer containing the graft material to preserve disc height and alignment.
- Small metal plates, rods, or screws may be added to stabilize the spine while fusion occurs.
- Our imaging technology confirms everything is in its proper place and position.
- We close the incision with sutures.
Most LLIF procedures take between one and three hours, depending on how many spinal levels we are treating.
Risks of an LLIF Procedure
While LLIF is considered a safe procedure, as a form of spinal surgery, it carries some risks. The complications associated with this operation include infection, muscle weakness, excessive bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia or pain medication (though these are all uncommon). There is also the unlikely possibility that the graft will fail or that the hardware used will not work properly.
Recovery From an LLIF Procedure
After undergoing an LLIF procedure, you’ll most likely stay in the hospital overnight. You’ll also start a physical therapy regimen soon after to help you regain strength and mobility. Certain activities may be restricted, including lifting, twisting the midsection, and bending at the waist.Â
Many patients can return to work two to three weeks after the procedure if their employment does not require strenuous exertion. After three months, you may be cleared to resume more rigorous activities, but this depends on how extensive your surgery was and how fast you are healing.Â
Why Choose Bone & Joint Specialists?
Bone & Joint Specialists is home to board-certified orthopedic surgeons with backgrounds in joint replacement, spine care, sports injuries, foot and ankle, podiatry, and minimally invasive surgery. Each provider brings years of surgical training and hands-on experience in managing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. With in-house imaging, diagnostics, and physical therapy services, patients receive care that’s streamlined and thorough.
Our treatments are selected based on medical history, goals, and lifestyle. Surgeons and clinical staff work together, using precise techniques and practical planning to help you recover and return to your routine safely. From your first appointment through recovery, you’ll be supported by professionals who value communication and proven methods.
Explore Your Options for Spine Care in Merrillville or Highland
Lateral lumbar interbody fusion has helped many people move beyond persistent pain and regain stability in their lower spine. The neurosurgeon at Bone & Joint Specialists can walk you through your treatment options and answer any questions you have at our offices in Merrillville or Highland, IN. Call 219-795-3360 to set up your consultation.
