Basics of Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion and Pitfall

Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) is a well-established surgical technique for addressing a spectrum of lumbar spine pathologies. It has evolved from its historical roots to modern minimally invasive techniques, offering unique advantages in achieving decompression, facilitating fusion, and reducing surgical trauma. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of ALIF, exploring the technique’s history and evolution and highlighting its benefits. It emphasizes patient selection criteria, including factors for primary and revision surgeries. A review of the ALIF procedure covers preoperative planning, the surgical steps, and key anatomical considerations. By outlining potential complications and management strategies, this chapter aims to provide spine surgeons with a comprehensive understanding of ALIF, enabling informed decisions and optimal patient care.