XLIF

XLIF (eXtreme Lateral Interbody Fusion) is a groundbreaking minimally invasive procedure that removes a damaged disc and replaces it.

XLIF surgery is done by making a small incision in the patient’s side, which means less disruption of muscles, bones and ligaments, so a quicker recovery. Physicians use computer technology to remove the damaged disc and replace it with a small cage containing a protein that grows new bone. This procedure was first done in the Northwest by Microsurgical Spine Center’s own Dr. Richards Wohns.

The benefits of XLIF procedure are that it is minimally invasive and patients can expect to be back on their feet in a week or two. XLIF is used to treat a variety of back conditions and pain including recurring herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, degenerative spondylolisthesis, and more. Our expert physicians create individualized treatment plans, and offer a local XLIF surgical option. Based on your condition, Microsurgical Spine Center’s physicians can decide if this is the right procedure for you.

ILIF

ILIF stands for Instrumented Lumbar Interspinous Fusion, and was developed to overcome the potential shortcomings of standard lumbar spinal stenosis treatments using a minimally invasive surgical technique.

Spinal stenosis is a gradual narrowing of the space where nerves pass through the spine, which can be a result of aging. ILIF surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis is less invasive than traditional surgical options.

The ILIF procedure involves a laminotomy, which involves opening up the space between the vertebrae, and careful removal of only small sections of bone to release the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. The benefits of the ILIF procedure are that it has a quick recovery time, and patients can return to normal activities sooner than with more invasive procedures. ILIF for back surgery is a viable option for spinal fusion.

Aspen® MIS Fusion System

The Aspen is a type of artificial insert used in a minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery. This is an alternative to more invasive spinal fusion procedures that use titanium rods or screws.

The goal of using the Aspen surgical system implant is to stabilize the spine. Some benefits of the Aspen surgical system include secure fixation in the spine, integrated bone graft enclosure and cutting-edge design.

The Aspen procedure is usually used to treat degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis or trauma.

Schedule an appointment to learn more about these procedures by calling our Medical Concierge at 800-890-1964 or clicking here.