A spinal fusion procedure performed through the side of the body to treat degenerative conditions of the lumbar spine. This approach allows access to the disc space without disrupting the abdominal contents or the major muscles of the back.
Quick Facts:
- Performed through the side of the body
- Allows placement of a large interbody implant
- Restores disc height and spinal alignment
- Minimizes disruption of back muscles
WHY WE PREFER OLIF OVER LLIF
Both Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion (OLIF) and Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) are minimally invasive fusion procedures that access the spine through the side of the body. Both techniques allow placement of a large interbody implant, restoration of disc height, correction of alignment, and indirect decompression of nerves.
OLIF = access to the spine anterior to psoas muscle
LLIF = access to the spine through the psoas muscle
In our practice, we routinely perform OLIF rather than LLIF. The OLIF approach accesses the disc space through a natural corridor in front of the psoas muscle rather than directly through it. By avoiding routine traversal of the psoas muscle, OLIF may reduce the risk of postoperative thigh pain, numbness, hip flexor weakness, and irritation of the lumbar plexus.
OLIF also provides excellent access to the front portion of the spine, allowing placement of large interbody implants that can restore disc height, improve spinal alignment, and promote fusion. In many patients, OLIF allows us to achieve the goals of spinal stabilization and deformity correction while minimizing disruption of surrounding tissues.
Although OLIF is our preferred lateral fusion technique, there are situations where LLIF may be appropriate depending on the patient’s anatomy, spinal condition, and surgical goals. Every patient is evaluated individually to determine the safest and most effective approach.
👉 Our goal is to select the procedure that provides the best combination of safety, durability, and clinical outcome for each patient.