Answers for surgeons, hospitals, and patients.

Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion is a spinal fusion performed through the front of the abdomen. See the ALIF Procedure page for more.

A spine access surgeon creates and maintains the operative pathway to the lumbar spine for anterior approaches such as ALIF. The access surgeon works alongside the treating spine surgeon, helping protect nearby vascular and abdominal structures while the spine surgeon performs the spinal reconstruction. The access surgeon also helps close the approach; the spine surgeon performs disc preparation and implant placement.

It may provide direct access to the disc and help restore disc height or alignment in selected patients. The choice depends on your diagnosis, anatomy, surgical history, and goals; your spine surgeon can explain alternatives.

ALIF aims to stabilize a spinal segment and may improve symptoms, but outcomes vary. Access risks include bleeding, infection, wound problems, hernia, clots, or injury to nearby vessels, bowel, ureter, or nerves; changes in ejaculation can occur in some men. Your surgical team can discuss your individual risks.

No. Luu MD works with spine surgeons and hospital teams and does not schedule patient appointments. Please continue with your treating physician.

No. This site is general educational and professional information; it does not create a physician–patient relationship or provide individual medical advice.

Anterior and oblique lumbar access for ALIF, lumbar disc replacement, and related procedures, with approach planning and intraoperative collaboration with orthopedic and neurosurgical spine surgeons.

As early as practical. Preoperative review of imaging, prior abdominal history, and vascular anatomy supports a well-coordinated operative plan.

Relevant imaging, surgical and abdominal history, and case-specific considerations shared by the treating spine surgeon.

Yes, these are welcome for individual review. Access across L2–S1 and L4–L5 exposure depend on anatomy, target levels, prior operations, and the planned procedure.

No. Dr. Luu evaluates feasibility case by case using imaging, vascular anatomy, prior abdominal surgery, body habitus, target level, and the planned procedure.

Yes. Coverage is focused in Illinois and Arizona, with additional U.S. markets considered case by case.

Illinois and Arizona, with expansion into additional United States markets as the practice grows.

Through the contact page or by email. Initial conversations typically involve surgical services leadership and credentialing coordinators.

Credentialing status is confirmed case by case. We do not represent that credentialing is complete at any organization without confirmation.