33 Central Ave Midland Park NJ 07432

Oblique Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery in Allendale, NJ

Oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion surgery in Allendale, NJ

Oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion (OLLIF) is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure that is used to treat degenerative disc disease and other spinal conditions in the L5 - S1 sections of the spine, to help minimize back pain and restore mobility. It's an outpatient surgery that gives surgeons access to your spine through a posterolateral view (through the back and to the side of vertebrae).

Prior to an oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion surgery, your healthcare provider will likely recommend natural remedies and over-the-counter pain management solutions to help manage or treat your lower back pain. If these non-surgical back pain treatments do not provide you relief, OLLIF is likely the next course of action your healthcare provider will discuss with you. In particular, OLLIF can provide substantial relief for:

  • Herniated disc causing severe nerve pain and / or sciatica
  • Kyphoscoliosis
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Arthritis in your back
  • Foraminal stenosis
  • Previously failed back surgery
  • Spondylolisthesis in the lower back

There is a skilled orthopedic surgeon in Allendale that can restore function to your back and eliminate your daily lower back pain; call (201) 806-6099 or contact Medwell Orthopedics & Functional Medicine for Men & Women online.

What to Expect During Lumbar Fusion Surgery

Prior to your lumbar fusion surgery, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, perform a physical exam and will likely conduct several tests such as a CT scan or MRI to evaluate the current health and function of your spine. Your healthcare provider will take into account your age, lifestyle preferences and ability to participate in the recovery process when determining if you are a good fit for OLLIF surgery.

If an oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion surgery is elected by your healthcare provider, it will require general anesthesia in an outpatient facility or hospital. Your orthopaedic surgeon will make a small incision in your lower back, in an area free of vascular and neurological structures (Kambin's triangle) that will allow safe access to your lumbar disc. The incision is typically less than the height of a dime (around 15mm). A small probe is inserted through the incision, followed by a small dilator and portal. The purpose of the portal is to protect your skin, muscles and nerves as the diseased portion of the disc is extracted. Once removed, bone graft material is inserted in its place, followed by a polymer implant that's filled with bone graft material. Your spine will then be stabilized with pedicle screws.

The purpose of the implant is to maintain vertebral spacing as your spine fuses, new bone forms and your two vertebra are joined together, relieving pressure that was previously placed on nerves and causing pain. Depending on the severity of your back issue, the surgery can be performed in as little as 40 minutes.

Oblique Lateral Lumbar Spinal Fusion Recovery Time

After surgery, some patients are able to get up and walk in as little as two hours and able to leave the hospital within 24 hours of their surgery. It's also possible for patients to return to work within a few days depending on their vocation. Your healthcare provider will likely recommend that you avoid any heavy lifting for a minimum of two weeks. A complete spinal fusion recovery can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months.

Your healthcare provider will have specific instructions for helping you to manage any pain after spinal fusion surgery; adherenece is crucial to ensure proper healing. To assist in the recovery process, your healthcare provider may recommend:

  • A warm bath or heating pad (to enhance blood flow to areas that need more oxygen and blood flow), or an icepack or cold gel pack to reduce swelling and slow your body's nerve pain impulses
  • Short periods of rest or laying down so that you aren't constantly on your feet
  • Over-the-counter pain medications
  • Choosing an ergonomic chair at work and, if you have a desk job, changing positions at least every half hour
  • Regular exercise that includes strength training and improving your flexibility
  • A diet rich in fruits and vegetables
  • Making an effort to improve your posture
  • Proper lifting techniques to avoid added pressure placed on your back

Lower back pain caused by malfunctioning spinal discs can greatly inhibit enjoyment of everyday life. To schedule a consultation with a qualified orthopedic surgeon in Allendale, call (201) 806-6099 or contact Medwell Orthopedics & Functional Medicine for Men & Women online.

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Hours and Directions
Medwell Orthopedics & Functional Medicine for Men & Women
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Address

33 Central Ave
Midland Park, NJ 07432
(201) 806-6099
www.BergenCountyDoctors.com

Hours

Mon: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Tue: 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wed: 8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Thu: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Fri: 8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Sat: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sun: By Appointment Only

Areas We Service:

Allendale, NJ, Fair Lawn, NJ, Franklin Lakes, NJ, Glen Rock, NJ, Hackensack, NJ, Ho Ho Kus, NJ, Paramus, NJ, Ramsey, NJ, Ridgewood, NJ, Saddle River, NJ, Waldwick, NJ, Wyckoff, NJ, Hawthorne, NJ, Paterson, NJ