Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF) and Direct Lateral Interbody Fusion (DLIF)
What are an extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) and a direct lateral interbody fusion (DLIF)?
Extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) and direct lumbar interbody fusion (DLIF) are approaches to spinal fusion in which the surgeon accesses the intervertebral disc space and fuses the lumbar spine (low back) from the side (lateral) rather than from the front (anterior) or the back (posterior). In some cases, these can be less invasive approaches.
What medical conditions may benefit from an extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) or a direct lateral interbody fusion (DLIF)?
Medical conditions that may benefit from an XLIF of DLIF include:
