Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion in NJ
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ALIF Surgery in New Jersey
Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) is a minimally invasive spine surgery performed through the front of the abdomen to access the lower spine. One of our spine surgeons in New Jersey removes a damaged disc and places a spacer filled with bone graft between the vertebrae, which helps stabilize the spine and relieve pain. This type of spinal fusion allows the bones to heal together, improving spinal alignment and reducing nerve compression, making it an effective treatment for certain types of lower back and leg pain.
Benefits of ALIF Surgery
ALIF surgery offers several important benefits for patients suffering from lower back pain and spinal instability. By accessing the spine through the front of the body, this procedure reduces disruption to muscles and nerves in the back. It provides strong spinal stability, improves alignment, and effectively relieves nerve pressure, contributing to decreased pain and enhanced mobility.
Benefits of ALIF
- Minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions
- Reduced muscle and nerve disruption compared to back approaches
- Improved spinal stability and alignment
- High success rate for bone fusion
- Effective relief from nerve compression symptoms
- Faster recovery and less postoperative discomfort
- Long-term pain reduction and improved function
ALIF Candidates
ALIF surgery is ideal for patients experiencing chronic lower back pain and nerve symptoms caused by damaged or degenerated discs in the lumbar spine. Candidates typically have not found relief through non-surgical treatments and show signs of spinal instability or nerve compression.
Candidates for ALIF surgery
- Chronic lower back pain unresponsive to conservative care
- Nerve pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs due to disc damage
- Spinal instability or deformity requiring fusion
- Degenerative disc disease confirmed by imaging
- Failed previous lumbar spine treatments
- Good overall health and ability to undergo surgery
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Choose Alliance Orthopedics for care that revolves around you. We listen, collaborate, and create a custom orthopedic treatment plan that fits your life, your goals, and your recovery!
Preparing for ALIF Surgery
Preparing for ALIF surgery involves important steps to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidelines closely, including medication adjustments and health checks before surgery.
Patient Preparation Checklist:
- Complete preoperative lab tests and medical clearance
- Stop blood-thinning medications as directed by your provider
- Shower with antibacterial soap the night before and morning of surgery
- Arrange transportation and post-surgery care at home
- Pack essential items such as ID, insurance cards, and comfortable clothing
- Avoid eating or drinking after midnight before surgery
- Discuss all medications and supplements with your surgeon before surgery
How is ALIF Surgery Performed?
During ALIF surgery, the patient is placed under general anesthesia and positioned lying on their back. One of our spine surgeons makes an incision in the abdomen to access the lower spine. The abdominal muscles and organs are carefully moved aside to expose the spine. The damaged disc is then completely removed. The surgeon prepares the space between vertebrae for fusion and inserts a spacer (or cage) filled with bone graft to promote bone growth and spinal stability. In some cases, additional hardware, such as screws or plates, is added for support. Finally, the incision is closed, and the patient is taken to recovery.
ALIF Surgery Recovery
After ALIF surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for about 1 to 4 days for initial recovery and pain management. During this time, gentle movements like short walks are encouraged to promote healing and prevent complications. In the weeks following surgery, it’s important to avoid heavy lifting, bending, and twisting while the spine begins to fuse.
Physical therapy is often recommended to build strength and mobility gradually. Most people can return to light daily activities within 4 to 6 weeks, but full recovery and bone fusion can take up to a year. By attending regular follow-ups with your spine surgeon and care team in New Jersey, you can ensure steady progress and a successful recovery.
What to Expect After Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
ALIF surgery is highly effective for relieving chronic lower back pain and restoring spinal stability. Most patients experience significant improvement in pain, mobility, and overall quality of life following the procedure. While a short hospital stay and gradual activity are part of recovery, the real benefit of ALIF is its long-term success: patients can often return to their normal daily activities with greater ease, confidence, and comfort.
ALIF FAQs
ALIF surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, nerve injury causing leg pain or weakness, and damage to surrounding blood vessels. Rare complications include bowel or bladder issues and retrograde ejaculation. Vascular injury is serious but uncommon and usually managed during surgery.
Yes, physical therapy is typically recommended to help restore strength, flexibility, and mobility during recovery.
Light activities can usually be resumed within 4 to 6 weeks, but full recovery, including bone fusion, may take 6 to 12 months with guidance from your surgeon.
Most patients remain in the hospital for 1 to 4 days following ALIF surgery. During this time, the medical team focuses on managing pain, monitoring vital signs, and encouraging gentle movement to aid healing. Early mobilization helps prevent complications and sets the foundation for a smooth recovery at home.
Why Choose Alliance Orthopedics?
At Alliance Orthopedics in New Jersey, we are committed to delivering exceptional spine care using minimally invasive techniques that promote faster recovery and reduce pain. Our board-certified spine surgeons provide personalized attention, creating customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
With convenient locations throughout New Jersey, we offer comprehensive support from diagnosis to recovery, helping patients regain mobility and enhance their quality of life. Choose Alliance Orthopedics for trusted, patient-centered spine care that puts your health first and helps you get better every day.
Best Spine Surgeons in NJ
Alliance Orthopedics is home to a skilled team of orthopedic spine surgeons specializing in advanced treatments, including ALIF. Our surgeons combine expert knowledge with personalized care to deliver the latest minimally invasive techniques to help patients across New Jersey regain function, reduce pain, and return to daily life with confidence.
Orthopedic Clinics in New Jersey
Alliance Orthopedics provides accessible and comprehensive orthopedic spine care throughout New Jersey. Each location offers expert spine surgery options in a modern and patient-friendly environment. Patients can receive personalized care close to home, ensuring that their treatment and recovery are as convenient and comfortable as possible.
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