MIS XLIF®: Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion

Overview

Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF®) is typically used to treat leg or back pain caused by degenerative disc disease.

An XLIF® procedure typically involves one small incision on the patient’s side. The surgeon inserts a probe and guides surgical instruments in the incision. The probe is used to help avoid interrupting the nerves. X-ray images guide the probe to the proper place in the spine. Using dilation tubes and a retraction device the surgeon gains access to the spine and removes the damaged disc. Once the disc is removed an implant filled with bone graft is placed in the empty disc space. This realigns the spine and relieves pressure from pinched nerve roots.

Using the XLIF® procedure, instead of traditional spine surgery, the surgeon avoids cutting into major muscles by making the incision in the patient’s side — which can mean less post-operative pain. This procedure is generally performed in an outpatient setting or 23 hour stay.

Comparison of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Approaches

Approach Full Name Access Route Typical Levels Treated Muscle Disruption Advantages Risks/Limitations
TLIF Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Posterior (from the back, side of spinal canal) L2 to S1 Moderate Good disc space access; unilateral approach reduces nerve retraction Nerve root injury risk; limited disc space visualization
XLIF Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (eXtreme) Lateral (through psoas muscle) T12 to L5 (not L5-S1) Minimal Large graft placement; minimal blood loss Risk to lumbar plexus; not suitable for L5-S1
iLIF Interlaminar Lumbar Interbody Fusion Posterior (between spinous processes) L2 to S1 Minimal Preserves stabilizing structures; reduced blood loss Technically demanding; newer technique, limited long-term data
PLIF Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Posterior (midline) L2 to S1 High Direct access to disc; bilateral cage placement possible More muscle disruption; higher blood loss
ALIF Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Anterior (through abdomen) L4 to S1 Minimal (no back muscle disruption) Wide disc access; large implant size possible Major vessel injury risk; requires vascular access surgeon


Who we Are

Texas Spine and Scoliosis is a regional referral center for the treatment of back and neck pain and scoliosis

Learn more about the providers at Texas Spine and Scoliosis, the only spine specialized neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and non-surgical rehabilitation group in the central Texas area.

Texas Spine & Scoliosis approved for the new BRAIVE scoliosis tethering study

Read about various patient success stories that have been performed by the physicians at Ascension Texas Spine & Scoliosis

Same-day Appointments

Call Today

To make an appointment at Ascension Texas Spine and Scoliosis please call us Today.

512-324-3580