What it is
ALIF fuses a lumbar segment through the abdomen rather than the back. The anterior corridor allows removal of the entire disc and placement of a large spacer — the biggest of any fusion approach — which powerfully restores disc height, opens the nerve exits, and corrects alignment, all without disturbing the back muscles.
When it's recommended
- Degenerative disc disease or spondylolisthesis at levels suited to an anterior approach (most often L4-5 and L5-S1)
- Alignment problems requiring restoration of lordosis (the spine's natural curve)
- Sometimes combined with posterior fixation for added stability
As with every procedure in this practice, surgery is offered only after conservative options have been genuinely explored — or when the diagnosis clearly calls for it.
How it's performed
An access approach is made through the lower abdomen — often with a vascular access surgeon — the disc is completely removed, and the structural spacer is placed and secured. Because the back muscles are untouched, early recovery is often more comfortable than traditional posterior fusion.
Recovery & return to activity
- Walking begins the same day or next morning
- Typically a 1–2 night stay
- Temporary core/lifting precautions while the fusion matures
- Return-to-work timing depends on your job's physical demands — planned with you in advance
Recovery details vary by patient and by the specifics of each operation — your individual plan, restrictions, and milestones are set with you before surgery and refined at follow-up.
Related: TLIF · XLIF · All Procedures
Already been told you need this procedure? A second opinion is always welcome.