AxiaLIF® means Axial Lumbar Interbody Fusion. It is an alternative to traditional open and minimally invasive low back surgery performed to treat degenerative disc disease (DDD), spinal stenosis, or low-grade spondylolisthesis at L5-S1. In some patients, these disorders may lead to spinal instability and pain. The procedure involves implanting the AxiaLIF device (a short threaded rod) after the center of the disc is removed from between the last lumbar vertebra and the sacrum (L5-S1).
AxiaLIF provides anterior spinal stabilization – that means the spine is immobilized at the front of the spine. It can be combined with posterior fusion; that means using instrumentation (screws and rods) implanted in the back of the spine.
The low back consists of bones, discs, nerves, ligaments, and other soft tissues. There are 5 bones called vertebral bodies in the lumbar spine. These bones are abbreviated L1 (top) through L5 (bottom). Immediately below the last lumbar vertebral body is the sacrum; a part of the pelvis. The disc levels also are abbreviated. For example, L5-S1 refers to the intervertebral disc between the fifth vertebral body and the first sacral level.
Axial lumbar interbody fusion is performed under general anesthesia. The low back area is cleansed and prepared for surgery. A one-inch incision is made next to the tailbone. Through the incision, special instruments are guided by surgical imaging techniques and the center of the disc is removed. Bone graft fills the vacant disc space. The AxiaLIF device, a short threaded rod, is implanted upward and restores lost disc height and stabilizes the spine.
After surgery, the patient is moved into the recovery area. In recovery, nurses and other members of the medical team closely monitor the patient’s vital signs – pulse, respiration, blood pressure, and pain. Some post-operative pain should be expected and patients receive pain medication either through their IV (intravenous line) or by mouth. Many patients go home the same day or day after surgery. Dr. Stieber discusses the likelihood of hospitalization with patients before their surgery date.
Dr. Stieber provides AxiaLIF patients with information about what to expect and self-care after hospital discharge. This information includes instructions to control pain, medications, diet and managing constipation, bathing and incision care, activity restrictions, and the surgical follow-up appointments. As always, Dr. Stieber and his staff welcome questions and ensure that all patient concerns are thoroughly addressed.
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