Is anterior or posterior lumbar fusion better?

An anterior method might be required if there is a situation where there is extra stability needed for realignment in any area of the spine. Compared to a posterior approach, this method provides more stability and support, which results in a better probability of fusion and healthier spinal alignment.

What is posterior decompression and fusion?

Posterior lumbar decompression and fusion (PLDF) is a surgical procedure that aims to relieve pain and pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves in the lower back. The lower back is made up of the lumbar spine, where the spine curves inward toward the abdomen. It consists of the five vertebrae, L1-L5.

What is the difference between spinal fusion and decompression?

This difference may be due to the level of surgical invasiveness; decompression only requires a small incision and exposure to the lamina, whereas posterolateral fusion requires a larger skin incision and exposures to the lamina, facet joints, transverse processes, and intertransverse spaces.

How long does an anterior posterior lumbar fusion take?

How long is the Anterior & Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Procedure? Surgical time is determined by the number of vertebrae that are involved in the fusion. Generally, the surgery takes between 5 and 7 hours. After the procedure, patients are transferred to the recovery room for a short time.

Is the fusion of the lumbar spine anterior or posterior?

360 degree lumbar fusion is also known as an Anterior/Posterior Lumbar fusion. The procedure is an extremely common method for fusing the lumbar spine in which there is an incision anterior in the abdominal area and incisions posterior in the lumbar or low back region.

What does 360 degree fusion anterior and posterior mean?

360° Fusion (Anterior and Posterior) 360 degree lumbar fusion is also known as an Anterior/Posterior Lumbar fusion. The procedure is an extremely common method for fusing the lumbar spine in which there is an incision anterior in the abdominal area and incisions posterior in the lumbar or low back region.

What are the drawbacks of anterior lumbar fusion surgery?

Anterior/Posterior Lumbar Fusion Surgery Considerations. ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion) Video. A drawback of the procedure is that both an anterior incision in the abdomen and a posterior incision in the low back need to be done.

Who is responsible for anterior and posterior fusion?

Typically the procedure requires two surgeons to perform – one who is an “anterior access” surgeon and the other is the spinal surgeon. The access surgeon is responsible for safely maneuvering into the abdomen and exposing the spine. Many times the spine is actually closer to the abdomen than it is to the back due to the thickness of the muscle.