What does PLIF stand for in spinal surgery?
Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) are two types of spinal fusion procedures that utilize a posterior (back area incision) approach to fuse (mend) the lumbar spine bones together (using an interbody fusion technique).
What is PLIF surgery?
A posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) is performed to remove a disc that is the source of back or leg pain and fuse spinal vertebrae with bone grafts. It is called a posterior procedure because the spine is approached through an incision on the back.
Which is better PLIF or ALIF?
There’s no significant difference in the success rate of the surgeries. However, PLIF can be riskier as the vertebrae and spinal cord must be moved. ALIF works around large blood vessels, which can be dangerous. Each procedure comes with risks that will be explained by the surgeon.
What is the difference between PLIF and PLF?
PLIF can offer a larger surface area for fusion than PLF. In our study, the fusion rate in the PLIF group was better than in the PLF group. In the PLF group, all patients had iliac crest bone graft. In the PLIF group the source of the bone graft is laminar and spinous process.
Is Alif better than PLIF?
PLIF can happen if the damage is more comfortable to access from the back. With ALIF, the doctor has a broader view of the spine and more surface area to work with. This makes ALIF the better option if more than one fusion is needed. PLIF may have fewer incisions, but the risks increase with direct access to the spine.
What are the restrictions after spinal fusion surgery?
Avoid strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, until your doctor says it is okay. Do not drive for 2 to 4 weeks after your surgery or until your doctor says it is okay. Avoid riding in a car for more than 30 minutes at a time for 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.
What should I avoid after spinal fusion?
What metal is used in spinal fusion?
In an instrumented spinal fusion, instruments–rods, plates, screws, cages, and/or hooks–hold the bones in place while they fuse. The instruments are generally made of titanium, stainless steel, or cobalt chrome. Screws or hooks are inserted into the weakened vertebrae, as well as into adjacent healthy vertebrae.
What are lumbar spine precautions?
Lumbar Spinal Precautions: • No Bending- no bending forward at the waist. Rather, bend at the knees and/or ankles. • No lifting- Do not lift anything over five pounds, which is approximately a half-gallon of milk.
Can you have an MRI with a spinal fusion?
Indeed, other studies assessing imaging following posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) have suggested that although fusion can be evaluated using MRI scan and CT scan by the 12-month mark, further progress toward complete union can take up to 24 months or longer.