OLIF

Oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) is a minimally invasive approach to spinal fusion surgery in which the neurosurgeon accesses and repairs the lower (lumbar) spine from the front and side of the body. The surgeon makes an incision in the side of your abdomen and separates soft tissues to reach the lumbar spine. Later, the surgeon removes the damaged vertebral bone or intervertebral disc. OLIF has been shown to cause less muscle dissection, reduced postoperative pain, and faster recovery and return to activities.