Anterior lumbar interbody fusion

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is a common technique for treating a variety of lumbar spine disorders. Although used predominantly to obtain fusion, it is also excellent for restoring lumbar lordosis and can be used for indirect decompression, especially in the setting of foraminal stenosis.⁴ The technique is used predominantly at L4-5 and L5-S1, but can be used at L3-4 and even L2-3. ALIF provides an excellent biomechanical environment for arthrodesis. The anterior longitudinal ligament resection allows for excellent restoration of lordosis. ALIF can be performed as an isolated procedure or combined with posterior approaches. Although there are major risks associated with the required abdominal approach, ALIF has reached popularity for its reliability and versatility. With good knowledge of anatomical hazards, the properly indicated patient has much to gain with an ALIF surgery.