Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF)

Extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) is a minimally invasive procedure performed through the side of the body to treat spinal disorders and reduce long-term back or leg pain that has not responded to other treatments, such as steroid injections, physical therapy and pain medication.

XLIF is one of a number of spinal fusion options that Dr. Raskas may recommend to treat specific types of lumbar spinal disorders, such as lumbar degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, recurrent lumbar disc herniations and some types of lumbar stenosis. Because he accesses the space between each spinal disc from the patient’s side, rather than the front or back, muscles, bones and ligaments are spared.

This procedure can be completed in as little as an hour with less blood loss, scarring and pain and a shorter hospital stay which allows patients to return to normal activity quicker.

Because every patient is unique and treatment options range from minimally invasive back surgery to advanced surgical procedures, recovery varies greatly among his patients and is dependent on the extent of your surgery, age and health.

For more information about extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) or other spinal surgery options to treat back pain, contact Dr. David S. Raskas at 314-442-4452.

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