DLIF or XLIF (Lateral Interbody Fusion)
DLIF or XLIF (Lateral Interbody Fusion) is another way to do a lumbar fusion. Instead of inserting a PEEK allograft via a posterior approach (like in TLIF or PLIF), the allograft is implanted laterally (through the right or left side of the disk space). This procedure can only be performed at L4/5 or higher levels and requires dissection through the psoas muscle. After the diskectomy and placement of the DLIF or XLIF graft, instrumentation is then usually put in (either via a lateral titanium plate or posterior pedicle screws).
