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Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion

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don25191
don25191

I have just returned from seeing a surgeon at my hospital and he has decided to operate on my slipped disc using a new type of surgery called Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF). This involves keyhole surgery from both sides of the body and an implant is placed between the vertebrae. It is then held in place by small plates and screws into the upper and lower vertebrae!

Has anyone else experienced this type of surgery--it's meant to be far less invasive than conventional surgery.

Don

0 likes, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • aric55287
    aric55287 don25191

    Posted

    He Don, I was wondering if you have ever heard of endoscopic spine surgery? The surgeon does the procedure via an endoscope which leaves you with about a 5mm incision.  The surgery, when performed through an endoscope, is bloodless and allows removal of the offending body whether a disc or a facet joint without the need for a fusion. It is also outpatient.  Check out Synergy Spine Center in Seneca, SC.  It is one of the few in the country.  Good luck!
    • don25191
      don25191 aric55287

      Posted

      Hi Aric

      No I've not heard of endoscopic spine surgery. I'll certainly look it up. I assume you are in the USA whereas I'm using the good old NHS in London UK

      The procdedure I'm having is similar I think, using keyhole surgery but in my case not only do they remove the old disc they replace it with a new one (artificial of course) and then pin it place.

      Thanks for your reply.

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