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Anterior Interbody Fusion in Bhubaneswar

Anterior Interbody Fusion

Anterior Interbody Fusion in Bhubaneswar

Anterior Interbody Fusion, or Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF), is a surgical procedure that involves correcting spinal alignment by accessing the front or anterior part of the spine. It is usually addressed for patients with a collapsed disc between the L4-L5 lower lumbar region or L5-S1 region. Anterior interbody fusion in Bhubaneswar is generally performed either as an open or minimally invasive surgery. 

Pre-procedure: A thorough physical examination, pre-operative, and imaging tests are used. Prior to surgery, an anaesthesiologist will talk to you and explain the anaesthesia that will be administered to you and the possible risks. 

Procedure: The patient is made to lie on the back, and an incision is made in the abdominal region. With the help of image-guided scans such as X-ray fluoroscopy, the surgeon temporarily moves the abdominal organs using specialised tools until a clear visualisation of the vertebral bone is obtained. Bone grafts and spacers are inserted after removing the affected disc space and are secured with screws or plates. The organs are moved back to normal positions, and the incision is closed. 

Post-procedure: You'll move to the recovery area and remain under observation until you're ready to leave the hospital.
 

FAQ's

Specialists decide whether you are a good candidate for the ALIF procedure if you have the following conditions, which include, but are not limited to:

  • Spondylolisthesis

  • Degenerative disc disease

  • Pinched nerves or radiculopathy

  • Spinal arthritis

  • Spinal deformities, such as degenerative scoliosis 

  • Spinal stenosis

  • Failure in bone fusion after injury (pseudoarthrosis)

  • Symptoms in the neighbouring area where the fusion was performed previously, also called adjacent segment disease (ASD) 

The time for ALIF surgery is based on parameters such as the severity of the condition, the type of surgery, i.e., whether it is a traditional or minimally invasive procedure if the patient has a history of prior surgeries, and the number of vertebrae involved. The surgery should take 1–2 hours if the anatomy of the patient allows easy access to address the issue. Moreover, prior history of surgery, severe spinal deformities, performing on obese patients, or certain anatomy may contribute to difficulty accessing the spine, extending the time that is taken for the surgery. Additionally, the placement of screws or plates influences the total time taken. Your specialist will give you a detailed analysis of your treatment and inform you regarding the supposed duration of surgery and any complications that may arise during the procedure.
 

The ALIF procedure is generally the preferred surgical option and is considered safe, although complications are rare but present. Possible risks or complications that may arise include:

 

  • Excessive bleeding or infection near the incision site
  • Manifestation of neurological issues like leg pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness
  • Uncontrolled bladder and bowel 
  • Damage to the blood vessels during surgery
  • Reopening of a surgical incision (wound dehiscence)
  • Formation of blood clots (thrombosis)
  • Partial or complete blocking of the intestines (ileus)
  • Genitourinary issues, such as retrograde ejaculation
  • Failure in bone fusion or reasons such as malfunctioning of screws or plates, improper bone fusion, or post-operative cage migration (subsidence)

Your specialists will inform you about potential risks and complications that may arise during the surgery and will also use interventions to minimise them.

You will be administered a mild or moderate level of anaesthesia during the procedure to numb the pain. You may feel a numbness or tingling sensation post-surgery, which will subside over time. Since the incision is made in the abdominal region, you might experience abdominal pain in the initial weeks after surgery. Moreover, experiencing back pain after undergoing an ALIF procedure is a common occurrence. The pain should be reduced once the bones are fused properly and the incisions and surrounding muscles are healed. You can discuss pain management options with your doctor after the surgery. It is important to seek medical attention if you feel any persistent or recurrent pain for a few weeks or months after surgery. 

General precautions and prevention methods you can take after ALIF surgery include:

  • Getting enough rest for recovery

  • Using ice packs, hot pads, or showering with hot water to enhance healing.

  • Keep your wounds clean, as they may lead to infections. 

  • Practicing good posture during work hours and using ergonomic types of equipment.

  • Quitting smoking, drinking, and using tobacco

  • Maintaining a balanced diet, body weight, and consumption of foods rich in minerals, calcium, protein, and so forth

  • Avoiding prolonged sitting and standing during work hours and taking intermittent breaks

  • Performing exercises suggested by your physical therapist and following proper medications and their schedule personalised by your doctor

  • Starting to walk small distances and eventually increasing your pace and distance slowly

  • Restricting yourself from performing heavy lifting and strenuous activity during your recovery period

You should avoid driving until you are no longer taking narcotic pain medications and you feel comfortable sitting and moving without significant pain. Typically, patients are advised to wait at least 2-4 weeks before driving but always follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations.

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