Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)
Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) is a surgical procedure that is used to treat spinal conditions in the lower back by removing a disc and fusing two vertebrae together.
Spine surgeons aim to provide relief to their patients by either decompressing and/or fusing the spine. Both decompression and fusion procedures offer varying degrees of symptomatic relief. However, decompressive procedures are often followed by the need for more decompressive procedures or a fusion procedure. Fusion procedures entail placing rods, plates, and screws into the spine.
PLIF is a surgical procedure that is performed behind the lumbar spine and involves removing a disc in the lumbar spine and fusing two vertebrae together. Patients often stay in the hospital for at least one day postoperatively.