Precision Treatment Of Spinal Degeneration: Advantages Of The LIFT Procedure
Spinal degeneration can affect millions of people around the globe. It is associated with pain, stiffness and reduced spinal mobility. As people get older, their spine discs slowly lose their resilience and flexibility, which can lead to conditions such as degenerative disease, spinal stenosis and herniated Discs. Although the traditional treatments of spinal degeneration usually involve medications, physical therapy, and even surgery, the Lateral Interbody Fusion (LIFT) procedure is a precision treatment that offers several advantages. In this article, you’ll learn how the LIFT surgery can offer targeted relief to patients suffering from spinal degeneration.
Understanding Spinal Degeneration
Spinal degeneration is the progressive deterioration of the spinal discs and their surrounding structures. The spinal discs gradually lose hydration and elasticity, making them less effective as cushioning and supporting vertebrae.
- Back pain is a common complaint.
- Stiffness & reduced flexibility
- Numbness and tingling of the extremities
- Weakness, difficulty walking
Spinal degeneration has a major impact on a person’s quality of life. It can make it difficult for them to enjoy their daily activities and full range of motion. Although medication and physical treatment may provide temporary comfort, individuals with severe and progressive spinal degeneration might require more sophisticated interventions to relieve symptoms and restore function.
The LIFT Procedure – Precision Treatment for Spinal Degeneration
The Lateral Interbody Fusion, or LIFT procedure, is a minimally invasive surgery that restores alignment and stability to spines. LIFT surgery is performed with small incisions using specialized tools, as opposed to open surgery, which uses large incisions that cause extensive tissue damage.
During LIFT the surgeon enters the spine using a small, incision, which is usually made on one side of the body. This can be either the flank or abdomen. Using image guidance, the surgeon navigates through the spine to the affected areas and removes degenerated or damaged disc tissue. Once the disc has been removed, a special implant is placed in the disc. The implant is made out of titanium or biocompatible material.
The LIFT procedure involves an implant designed to promote spinal fusion or bone growth. Over time, an implant is integrated with the surrounding bone. This creates a stable and sturdy fusion, which supports the spine while relieving pressure on its nerves. LIFT is a procedure that restores spine function and alignment. It can offer significant relief to individuals suffering from spinal degeneration.
LIFT Procedure Advantages
LIFT provides several benefits to patients with degenerative spinal disease, including
- Minimally Invasive Lift: This procedure is performed with small incisions using specialized equipment, which reduces tissue damage.
- Precision Treatment: The LIFT procedure enables surgeons to target the affected region of the back and address the underlying reason for spinal degeneration. It provides more effective and longer-lasting relief to patients.
- Stability: By restoring stability and alignment to the spine the LIFT procedure is able to relieve pressure from the nerves. It also improves mobility.
- Reduced Complications: Minimally invasive techniques like the LIFT are associated with a decreased risk of complications. This includes infection, nerve damage and bleeding.
- Faster Healing: Patients who have the LIFT procedure undergo a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery. They are also able to return to normal life sooner than patients who had traditional open surgeries.
Conclusion
Lateral Interbody Fusion is a treatment option designed to provide relief from spinal degeneration while restoring spine stability. LIFT uses minimally invasive implants and techniques to offer several advantages over traditional surgery. These include reduced tissue injury, quicker recovery and better results for patients. For more information on how LIFT can be used to restore mobility and reduce pain in those with spinal degeneration or for someone you care about, please click here. Visit ASAP DOCs and schedule a spinal specialist consultation to discuss your options.