Overview
Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion (OLIF) is an advanced minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat various lumbar spine conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, spinal instability, or deformities. The procedure involves accessing the spine through an oblique, or diagonal, approach.
Causes
OLIF is ideal for patients with conditions that require spinal fusion, particularly when traditional posterior approaches are less desirable. This could include degenerative conditions, scoliosis, or spondylolisthesis.
Treatment
The surgeon makes a small incision on the side of the abdomen, allowing access to the spine without disturbing major muscles or nerves. A spacer is placed between the vertebrae, and bone graft material is used to promote fusion.
Benefits
OLIF minimizes muscle damage, reduces blood loss, and speeds up recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. It also provides excellent spinal alignment and fusion outcomes.
Medical Terms
- Oblique Approach: A surgical approach that is angled or diagonal rather than directly from the front or back.
- Interbody Spacer: A device inserted between vertebrae to maintain disc height and facilitate fusion.
- Minimally Invasive: Techniques that limit the size of incisions and tissue disruption.