Posterior Lumber Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

What is Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)?

Like all spinal fusion procedures, a posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) involves the addition of a bone graft to a spinal area to create a biological response, leading the bone to grow between both elements and thus stopping motion in the segment itself. Contrary to posterolateral gutter fusion, the PLIF can perform a spinal fusion on the lower back by placing firmly into the disc a cage of an allograft bone or synthetic material. While this form of surgery is performed from the back, it is known as a posterior lumbar interbody fusion.

What are the symptoms leading to the doctor’s recommendation – Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)?

• Muscle weakness
• Stiffness
• Muscle spasms
• Reduced sensation of touch
• Sweating
• Painful sensation

Evaluations for Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

• X-rays
• MRI
• CT scan
• Electromyography

Treatment for Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) 

The patient is given general anesthesia, during this procedure. A 3 to 6-inch long incision in the midline of the back approaches the spine, with lamina muscles being stripped off on both sides, on various levels, from the lower back and left side. The lamina is removed after approaching the spine, allowing the visualization of the roots of the nerve. The facet joint straight over the nerve roots can be undercut in order to allow more space for the nerve roots. The roots of the nerve are then pulled to one side and the disc space is cleaned. In the disc space is then inserted a cage made of allograft bone and a posterior lumbar interbody cage of bone grafts, the bone grows from the vertebrae to the vertebral bodies.

Estimated Costs