Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) is currently one of the most frequently used fusion techniques for the relief of persistent lumbar region, or lower back, pain. As its name describes, PLIF is performed from the posterior, or back, of the spine. The posterior is chosen when it is closer to the problem area or there are particular risks to entering through the front of the body. Interbody fusion refers to the removal of an interverterbal disc, which is replaced with a bone spacer, and the adjacent vertebrae are fused together.
PLIF can be used to treat nerve compression, disc space collapse, spondylothesis and other conditions. After obtaining images of the spine with MRI and CT scans, a physician can determine just what type of implant would be best suited to correct the problem.
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is an FDA-approved treatment used in conjunction with spinal fusion surgery to stimulate bone growth within the treated area and achieve more successful results without the need for a bone graft.
Discovered in the 1960s, this group of protein extracts is found naturally in the body and can be created by doctors and then placed in damaged areas of the spine in concentrated quantities in order to fuse the bone ends together at a rate faster or similar to the use of bone grafts. There are several different types of BMP found within the body, although BMP-2 is most thoroughly evaluated for this treatment.
As a still developing treatment, long-term side effects of BMP remain unknown, and it can be rather costly. It is currently approved for use in posterior lumbar interbody fusion. Most patients who undergo this treatment achieve successful fusion without having to extract a bone graft from another part of the body or using donor bone.
Dr. Kim stays ahead of technology and aims to define the forefront of evolving in spinal care. If you are considering a specialists in spine care, please contact us at 310-423-9716 or fill out or contact form for more information.