Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Boston, MA
What Is ALIF?
ALIF is generally used to treat back or leg pain caused by degenerative disc disease. The surgeon will stabilize the spine by fusing vertebrae together with bone graft material.
If you’re in need of an ALIF procedure in the Boston area, contact spine surgeon Frank Pedlow, MD today to schedule an appointment. Dr. Pedlow has over 30 years of experience as a spine specialist and was given a Boston Top Doctor award in 2022. Give our office a call at (617) 227-9300 or request an appointment through our secure online form.
Procedure Steps
Incision Made
The procedure is performed through a three- to five-inch incision on the stomach. Two common approaches are over the center of the stomach or
slightly to the side.
Disc Removed
The damaged disc is partially removed. Some of the disc wall is left behind to help contain the bone graft material.
Implantation
A metal cage implant filled with bone graft is placed in the empty disc space. This realigns the vertebral bones, lifting pressure from pinched nerve roots.
Vertebrae Secured
In some patients, this will be enough to secure the vertebrae. For others, the surgeon may need to implant a series of screws and rods along the back of the spine for additional support.
What Happens After ALIF?
Over time, the bone graft will grow through and around the implants, forming a bone bridge that connects the vertebra above and below. This solid bone bridge is called a fusion.
Schedule an ALIF Consultation
If you believe you have degenerative disc disease, contact spine specialist Frank Pedlow, MD in Boston, MA today to discuss the ALIF procedure. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call our office at (617) 227-9300 or use our secure form.