What it is
An interbody fusion performed through the side of the body. The disc is reached through the flank, removed, and replaced with a wide implant that rests on the strong bone at the rim of the vertebra — which is what allows it to restore disc height and correct coronal alignment effectively.
Who it is for
Adult degenerative scoliosis, loss of disc height, indirect decompression of a narrowed canal by restoring height, and multi-level work in deformity where posterior-only correction would be insufficient. It is less suitable at L5–S1, where the pelvis is in the way.
How it works
The patient is positioned on their side, or prone where single-position surgery is planned. Through a small flank incision, a corridor is developed through the psoas muscle with continuous nerve monitoring. The disc is removed and the space prepared, and a wide cage with graft is placed. Posterior screws are usually added for stability.
Recovery
Usually one to two nights. Hip flexor weakness and thigh numbness on the approach side are common early and generally settle. Walking begins the day of or after surgery. Return to desk work commonly four to six weeks.
Risks and alternatives
Thigh numbness, burning or hip flexor weakness — usually temporary; injury to the lumbar plexus; bowel or vascular injury, which is rare; cage settling, particularly in poor bone; and failure of fusion. Alternatives are posterior or anterior interbody fusion, or decompression alone where alignment does not need correcting.