LLIF

What it is

LLIF reaches the lumbar disc space from the side, through the flank. Passing carefully between natural tissue planes, Dr. Choi removes the damaged disc and places an interbody implant that restores disc height and supports fusion — typically without disturbing the back muscles or the posterior bony anatomy.

Because the side approach leaves the back structures largely intact, it can be a useful option when the diagnosis favors a lateral corridor. Intraoperative neuromonitoring is used to protect the nerves encountered along the approach.

When it may be considered

LLIF may be useful for selected levels and patterns of disc collapse, stenosis, deformity, or instability. Not every lumbar level can be reached safely from this approach — anatomy, the level involved, nerve position, and prior surgery determine candidacy, as does whether additional decompression or fixation is needed.

What to discuss at consultation

• Goals: restore disc height and indirect decompression of nerves, stabilize the level, and correct alignment where needed.
• Alternatives: nonoperative care, or anterior (ALIF) or posterior (TLIF / PLIF) fusion approaches depending on the level and goals.
• Recovery: typically a hospital stay followed by progressive activity as the fusion heals.
• Risks: temporary hip or thigh irritation related to the lateral approach, fusion, and the individual risks of surgery.