Posterior and lateral lumbar interbody fusion Sydney

What are posterior and lateral interbody fusion, and how can they help with back pain?

“Fusion surgeries like PLIF and lateral lumbar interbody fusion stabilise your spine, relieving pain and giving you the support you need to live without discomfort.”

Dr Shanu Gambhir

Neurosurgeon Sydney

Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and lateral lumbar interbody fusion are advanced spine surgeries that stabilise the spine by fusing vertebrae together. These techniques are often used when conditions like spinal instability or severe nerve compression make non-surgical treatments ineffective. My focus is on using minimally invasive approaches wherever possible to provide effective, long-lasting relief with faster recovery times.

Lumbar fusion surgery Sydney

3 reasons why lumbar fusion surgery may be right for you

Here’s why posterior or lateral lumbar interbody fusion might be the best option for you:

Severe or chronic pain relief

If you’re living with debilitating back pain or sciatica caused by unstable vertebrae, fusion surgery can restore stability and ease nerve pressure.

Spinal stabilisation

PLIF and lateral interbody fusion provide the support your spine needs to prevent further issues, improving both mobility and comfort.

Minimally invasive options

I specialise in techniques that minimise tissue damage, resulting in less pain after surgery and a quicker return to your daily activities.

What are PLIF and lateral lumbar interbody fusion?

Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF):

PLIF is performed through an incision in the back, allowing direct access to the affected vertebrae. During the procedure, I remove the damaged disc and insert a spacer or bone graft into the empty space to maintain proper alignment and height. The vertebrae are then stabilised using screws and a stabilising cage, which help them fuse together over time. This approach is effective for conditions like spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, and severe nerve compression. PLIF can be performed in a minimally invasive manner.

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF):

LLIF involves accessing the spine through an incision on the side of the body, rather than the back. This method avoids the larger muscles of the back, resulting in less post-operative pain and faster recovery. Like PLIF, LLIF involves removing the damaged disc, placing a spacer or graft, and stabilising the area with screws and a stabilising cage. LLIF is often recommended for patients with specific conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, who may benefit from a minimally invasive approach.

Recovery and post-operative care

After PLIF or LLIF surgery, recovery times vary depending on your condition and the surgical approach used. Here’s what you can expect:

Hospital stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 3-6 days after surgery.
Early movement: Gentle walking and light activity are encouraged soon after surgery to aid circulation and healing.
Back to activities: Light activities can often resume within 2–4 weeks, with full recovery typically taking longer.
Follow-up care: Regular check-ups help ensure proper healing, and physiotherapy may be recommended to rebuild strength and mobility.

Following post-operative instructions is essential for a safe recovery and long-term success.

Risks and complications

The risk of complications is quite low, but as with any surgery, there are still some risks like infection, bleeding, blood clots, or anaesthesia reactions, alongside specific spine-related risks:

Nerve damage: There’s a small chance of nerve injury, which could cause numbness or weakness.
LLIF involves accessing the spine from the side, which can come close to the lumbar plexus nerves.
Hardware complications: Screws may shift or break, requiring further intervention.
Adjacent segment disease: Increased stress on nearby vertebrae might lead to degeneration over time.
Spinal fluid leak: Rarely, the membrane around the spinal cord may tear, causing a spinal fluid leak that needs additional treatment.

I take every step to minimise these risks and ensure a safe, effective recovery, with the likelihood of significant complications being very low.

What conditions can PLIF and LLIF treat?

Both procedures are effective for treating a range of spine conditions, including:

Spondylolisthesis

When one vertebra slips forward over another, causing pain and instability.

Degenerative disc disease

When discs between vertebrae wear down, leading to instability and pain.

Spinal stenosis

A narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves and causes discomfort.

Recurrent disc herniation

When a previously treated herniated disc continues to cause pain.

Spine Surgeon Sydney

Why I became a spine surgeon

I decided to become a spine surgeon after an experience in my childhood. My mum dislocated her shoulder, and seeing her in pain with no way to help left a lasting impact. It showed me how much pain can affect daily life and inspired me to become a doctor. During my training, I was drawn to neurosurgery because I wanted to help people with serious spine problems and make a real difference.

Why choose me as your spine surgeon

Choosing a spine surgeon means finding someone who listens and supports you. I prioritise non-surgical options and only recommend surgery when necessary. If it’s needed, I use minimally invasive techniques like endoscopic spine surgery for faster, less painful recovery. My goal is to provide personalised care to help you get back to your life.