OFFICE LOCATION: 14 WALL ST – SUITE 6C, NEW YORK, NY 10005
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
646-216-6222
BOOK ONLINE
Previous Post
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Next Post
Revision Surgery

Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

Advanced Treatment with Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan specializes in posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), a surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing the lumbar spine and relieving chronic pain associated with various degenerative spinal conditions. PLIF involves permanently stopping the movement of adjacent vertebrae, addressing issues such as spondylolisthesis, discogenic mechanical back pain, compressed nerves, degenerative disease, and scoliosis.

**Understanding PLIF

Common Symptoms of Lumbar Spinal Instability

When the lower back becomes unstable due to issues like degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal stenosis, patients often experience a distinct set of symptoms. These typically include:

  • Persistent pain in the lower back
  • Numbness or tingling sensations radiating to the hips or legs
  • Muscle weakness affecting mobility and stability

These symptoms can make everyday activities difficult and may persist despite attempts with rest, medication, or physical therapy. Surgery**

PLIF surgery is a well-established treatment option for patients suffering from severe and chronic back pain caused by unstable discs, spinal deformities, or bone slippage. During the procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan utilizes medical implants like screws, rods, and cages to hold the spine in place while promoting fusion between the vertebrae. In some cases, minimally invasive PLIF techniques can be employed, resulting in smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery times.

Indications for PLIF Surgery

PLIF surgery is recommended for patients with conditions such as spondylolisthesis (grades 1-4), spinal instability, scoliosis, failed previous fusion surgeries, severe discogenic pain, recurrent disc prolapse, facet joint arthropathy, and bilateral foraminal stenosis. By addressing these underlying issues, PLIF surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve stability, and restore function to the lumbar spine.

**The Traditional

What Influences Success After PLIF Surgery?

Several factors play a role in achieving the best possible outcome after a PLIF procedure. Maintaining a positive outlook and setting realistic goals can help patients adapt to the recovery process. Closely following post-operative instructions—such as wound care, activity restrictions, and physical therapy recommendations—is especially important for a smooth recovery.

While many people enjoy an immediate reduction in certain symptoms, others notice gradual improvements over time. Most individuals are able to resume their normal routines within a matter of weeks, although recovery can vary depending on each person’s health and adherence to their care plan. Each of these elements—attitude, compliance, and patience—contributes significantly to a successful surgical outcome. PLIF Technique**

During a traditional PLIF procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan makes an incision on the patient’s back over the affected vertebrae. The lamina and facet joints may be trimmed to create more space for the nerve roots. The compressed nerve is then relieved by removing the problematic disc or bone spur. A cage filled with bone graft material is inserted between the vertebrae to promote fusion, and screws and rods are used to stabilize the spine. Finally, the soft tissues are re-approximated, and the incision is closed.

**Comprehensive Care and

What to Discuss with Your Doctor About PLIF Surgery

When considering a posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), it’s important to have an open conversation with your doctor about a few key topics:

  • The specific spinal condition being treated and how PLIF might help.
  • Your age, overall health, and any pre-existing conditions that could affect your outcome.
  • Your daily activities and expected level of physical activity after surgery.
  • Potential benefits, risks, and alternatives to PLIF.
  • What to expect during your recovery and the rehabilitation process.

By actively engaging in these discussions, you can work together with your care team to determine whether PLIF is the best path forward for your unique needs and goals. Shared Decision Making**

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we believe in providing personalized and comprehensive care to every patient. Dr. Arutyunyan works closely with each individual to thoroughly discuss their condition, treatment options, and goals. Shared decision making is a fundamental aspect of our approach, empowering patients to make informed choices about their care and ensuring their needs and preferences are prioritized throughout the treatment process.

Contact Us for Expert Care

If you’re experiencing chronic back pain or have been diagnosed with a spinal condition that may require PLIF surgery, we encourage you to reach out to Dr. Arutyunyan and our team at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics. Our commitment to excellence and patient-centered care has earned us a reputation as one of the most trusted spine surgery practices in NYC. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.

Shared Decision Making

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we are committed to providing total quality care to our patients through our dedication to the practice of shared decision making. This medical concept involves active collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in making healthcare decisions that align with the patient’s values, preferences, and individual circumstances. We understand that each patient is unique, and their perspective is integral to crafting personalized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being and satisfaction.

Dr. Grigoriy Arutyunyan, MD (“Dr. A”)

Board Certified, Mayo Clinic-Trained Orthopedic Spine Surgeon & Founder

<a href=”tel:%201-646-216-6222″>646-216-6222</a> Schedule An Appointment Why Us Reviews Conditions Treatments

Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

Advanced Treatment with Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan specializes in posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), a surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing the lumbar spine and relieving chronic pain associated with various degenerative spinal conditions. PLIF involves permanently stopping the movement of adjacent vertebrae, addressing issues such as spondylolisthesis, discogenic mechanical back pain, compressed nerves, degenerative disease, and scoliosis.

Understanding PLIF Surgery

PLIF surgery is a well-established treatment option for patients suffering from severe and chronic back pain caused by unstable discs, spinal deformities, or bone slippage. During the procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan utilizes medical implants like screws, rods, and cages to hold the spine in place while promoting fusion between the vertebrae. In some cases, minimally invasive PLIF techniques can be employed, resulting in smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery times.

Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional PLIF: Key Differences

So, what sets minimally invasive PLIF apart from the traditional open version? The biggest distinction lies in how the surgeon accesses your spine. Traditional open surgery typically requires a larger incision and involves cutting or moving aside significant back muscles to reach the affected area. This can lead to more tissue damage, greater blood loss, and longer recovery times.

In contrast, the minimally invasive approach uses much smaller incisions and specially designed instruments to gently separate, rather than cut, the surrounding muscles. This technique helps preserve muscle strength and blood vessels, reduces post-surgical scarring, and often results in less pain and a quicker recovery for patients. It’s a bit like taking the scenic, less disruptive route, letting you get back on your feet sooner and with minimal evidence of having had surgery at all.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, minimally invasive PLIF does come with certain risks. While the technique is designed to reduce trauma to surrounding tissues and speed up recovery, some potential complications may still arise, including:

  • Infection: Even with careful precautions, infections can occasionally develop at the incision site or deeper within the spine.
  • Nerve Injury: Because the spine and its nerves are involved, there’s a chance of nerve damage, which could lead to numbness, weakness, or pain.
  • Blood Clots and Blood Loss: Some patients may experience blood clots or loss of blood during or after surgery.
  • Bowel or Bladder Issues: In rare cases, adjustments to the spine may affect nearby organs, leading to changes in bowel or bladder function.
  • Non-Union (Failed Fusion): Sometimes the bone graft does not fully fuse the vertebrae as intended, which might require further surgery.

It’s important to remember that the likelihood of each complication varies depending on your individual health and the complexity of your condition. Before moving forward with any spine surgery, Dr. Arutyunyan will discuss all potential risks with you and tailor the approach to suit your needs.

Potential Complications of Spinal Fusion

As with any major surgery, spinal fusion carries certain risks. Some patients may experience complications such as infection, nerve injury, or issues related to blood clots or blood loss during or after the procedure. Temporary or, rarely, lasting bowel or bladder difficulties can also occur.

A unique risk with spinal fusion surgery is the possibility that the fused bone and implant do not knit together as intended—a situation called non-union or failed fusion. If this happens, additional surgery may sometimes be necessary to achieve proper stabilization of the spine. There are also general risks linked to anesthesia, as with any surgical procedure.

Recovery and Returning to Normal Activities

Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how soon they can get back on their feet after PLIF surgery. Thanks to advancements in minimally invasive techniques, some individuals are able to leave the hospital the very next day, while others may need a bit more time for observation and recovery. As for getting back to daily routines, most people notice significant relief soon after the procedure, with ongoing improvement over the following weeks.

Achieving a smooth recovery and timely return to regular activities depends on maintaining a positive outlook, following Dr. Arutyunyan’s aftercare advice faithfully, and setting realistic expectations. Generally, patients can begin resuming their usual activities within several weeks post-surgery, but everyone’s timeline looks a little different depending on personal health and the specifics of their procedure.

Indications for PLIF Surgery

PLIF surgery is recommended for patients with conditions such as spondylolisthesis (grades 1-4), spinal instability, scoliosis, failed previous fusion surgeries, severe discogenic pain, recurrent disc prolapse, facet joint arthropathy, and bilateral foraminal stenosis. By addressing these underlying issues, PLIF surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve stability, and restore function to the lumbar spine.

The Traditional PLIF Technique

During a traditional PLIF procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan makes an incision on the patient’s back over the affected vertebrae. The lamina and facet joints may be trimmed to create more space for the nerve roots. The compressed nerve is then relieved by removing the problematic disc or bone spur. A cage filled with bone graft material is inserted between the vertebrae to promote fusion, and screws and rods are used to stabilize the spine. Finally, the soft tissues are re-approximated, and the incision is closed.

Comprehensive Care and Shared Decision Making

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we are committed to providing total quality care to our patients through our dedication to the practice of shared decision making. This medical concept involves active collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in making healthcare decisions that align with the patient’s values, preferences, and individual circumstances. We understand that each patient is unique, and their perspective is integral to crafting personalized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being and satisfaction.  Dr. Arutyunyan works closely with each individual to thoroughly discuss their condition, treatment options, and goals. Shared decision making is a fundamental aspect of our approach, empowering patients to make informed choices about their care and ensuring their needs and preferences are prioritized throughout the treatment process.

Contact Us for Expert Care

If you’re experiencing chronic back pain or have been diagnosed with a spinal condition that may require PLIF surgery, we encourage you to reach out to Dr. Arutyunyan and our team at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics. Our commitment to excellence and patient-centered care has earned us a reputation as one of the most trusted spine surgery practices in NYC. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.

Shared Decision Making

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we are committed to providing total quality care to our patients through our dedication to the practice of shared decision making. This medical concept involves active collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in making healthcare decisions that align with the patient’s values, preferences, and individual circumstances. We understand that each patient is unique, and their perspective is integral to crafting personalized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being and satisfaction.

Dr. Grigoriy Arutyunyan, MD (“Dr. A”)

Board Certified, Mayo Clinic-Trained Orthopedic Spine Surgeon & Founder
646-216-6222
Schedule An Appointment
Why Us
Reviews
Conditions
Treatments

Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

Advanced Treatment with Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan specializes in posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), a surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing the lumbar spine and relieving chronic pain associated with various degenerative spinal conditions. PLIF involves permanently stopping the movement of adjacent vertebrae, addressing issues such as spondylolisthesis, discogenic mechanical back pain, compressed nerves, degenerative disease, and scoliosis.

**Understanding PLIF

Common Symptoms of Lumbar Spinal Instability

When the lower back becomes unstable due to issues like degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal stenosis, patients often experience a distinct set of symptoms. These typically include:

  • Persistent pain in the lower back
  • Numbness or tingling sensations radiating to the hips or legs
  • Muscle weakness affecting mobility and stability

These symptoms can make everyday activities difficult and may persist despite attempts with rest, medication, or physical therapy. Surgery**

PLIF surgery is a well-established treatment option for patients suffering from severe and chronic back pain caused by unstable discs, spinal deformities, or bone slippage. During the procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan utilizes medical implants like screws, rods, and cages to hold the spine in place while promoting fusion between the vertebrae. In some cases, minimally invasive PLIF techniques can be employed, resulting in smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery times.

Indications for PLIF Surgery

PLIF surgery is recommended for patients with conditions such as spondylolisthesis (grades 1-4), spinal instability, scoliosis, failed previous fusion surgeries, severe discogenic pain, recurrent disc prolapse, facet joint arthropathy, and bilateral foraminal stenosis. By addressing these underlying issues, PLIF surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve stability, and restore function to the lumbar spine.

**The Traditional

What Influences Success After PLIF Surgery?

Several factors play a role in achieving the best possible outcome after a PLIF procedure. Maintaining a positive outlook and setting realistic goals can help patients adapt to the recovery process. Closely following post-operative instructions—such as wound care, activity restrictions, and physical therapy recommendations—is especially important for a smooth recovery.

While many people enjoy an immediate reduction in certain symptoms, others notice gradual improvements over time. Most individuals are able to resume their normal routines within a matter of weeks, although recovery can vary depending on each person’s health and adherence to their care plan. Each of these elements—attitude, compliance, and patience—contributes significantly to a successful surgical outcome. PLIF Technique**

During a traditional PLIF procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan makes an incision on the patient’s back over the affected vertebrae. The lamina and facet joints may be trimmed to create more space for the nerve roots. The compressed nerve is then relieved by removing the problematic disc or bone spur. A cage filled with bone graft material is inserted between the vertebrae to promote fusion, and screws and rods are used to stabilize the spine. Finally, the soft tissues are re-approximated, and the incision is closed.

**Comprehensive Care and

What to Discuss with Your Doctor About PLIF Surgery

When considering a posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), it’s important to have an open conversation with your doctor about a few key topics:

  • The specific spinal condition being treated and how PLIF might help.
  • Your age, overall health, and any pre-existing conditions that could affect your outcome.
  • Your daily activities and expected level of physical activity after surgery.
  • Potential benefits, risks, and alternatives to PLIF.
  • What to expect during your recovery and the rehabilitation process.

By actively engaging in these discussions, you can work together with your care team to determine whether PLIF is the best path forward for your unique needs and goals. Shared Decision Making**

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we believe in providing personalized and comprehensive care to every patient. Dr. Arutyunyan works closely with each individual to thoroughly discuss their condition, treatment options, and goals. Shared decision making is a fundamental aspect of our approach, empowering patients to make informed choices about their care and ensuring their needs and preferences are prioritized throughout the treatment process.

Contact Us for Expert Care

If you’re experiencing chronic back pain or have been diagnosed with a spinal condition that may require PLIF surgery, we encourage you to reach out to Dr. Arutyunyan and our team at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics. Our commitment to excellence and patient-centered care has earned us a reputation as one of the most trusted spine surgery practices in NYC. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.

Shared Decision Making

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we are committed to providing total quality care to our patients through our dedication to the practice of shared decision making. This medical concept involves active collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in making healthcare decisions that align with the patient’s values, preferences, and individual circumstances. We understand that each patient is unique, and their perspective is integral to crafting personalized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being and satisfaction.

Dr. Grigoriy Arutyunyan, MD (“Dr. A”)

Board Certified, Mayo Clinic-Trained Orthopedic Spine Surgeon & Founder

<a href=”tel:%201-646-216-6222″>646-216-6222</a> Schedule An Appointment Why Us Reviews Conditions Treatments

Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

Advanced Treatment with Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan specializes in posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), a surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing the lumbar spine and relieving chronic pain associated with various degenerative spinal conditions. PLIF involves permanently stopping the movement of adjacent vertebrae, addressing issues such as spondylolisthesis, discogenic mechanical back pain, compressed nerves, degenerative disease, and scoliosis.

Understanding PLIF Surgery

PLIF surgery is a well-established treatment option for patients suffering from severe and chronic back pain caused by unstable discs, spinal deformities, or bone slippage. During the procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan utilizes medical implants like screws, rods, and cages to hold the spine in place while promoting fusion between the vertebrae. In some cases, minimally invasive PLIF techniques can be employed, resulting in smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery times.

Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional PLIF: Key Differences

So, what sets minimally invasive PLIF apart from the traditional open version? The biggest distinction lies in how the surgeon accesses your spine. Traditional open surgery typically requires a larger incision and involves cutting or moving aside significant back muscles to reach the affected area. This can lead to more tissue damage, greater blood loss, and longer recovery times.

In contrast, the minimally invasive approach uses much smaller incisions and specially designed instruments to gently separate, rather than cut, the surrounding muscles. This technique helps preserve muscle strength and blood vessels, reduces post-surgical scarring, and often results in less pain and a quicker recovery for patients. It’s a bit like taking the scenic, less disruptive route, letting you get back on your feet sooner and with minimal evidence of having had surgery at all.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, minimally invasive PLIF does come with certain risks. While the technique is designed to reduce trauma to surrounding tissues and speed up recovery, some potential complications may still arise, including:

  • Infection: Even with careful precautions, infections can occasionally develop at the incision site or deeper within the spine.
  • Nerve Injury: Because the spine and its nerves are involved, there’s a chance of nerve damage, which could lead to numbness, weakness, or pain.
  • Blood Clots and Blood Loss: Some patients may experience blood clots or loss of blood during or after surgery.
  • Bowel or Bladder Issues: In rare cases, adjustments to the spine may affect nearby organs, leading to changes in bowel or bladder function.
  • Non-Union (Failed Fusion): Sometimes the bone graft does not fully fuse the vertebrae as intended, which might require further surgery.

It’s important to remember that the likelihood of each complication varies depending on your individual health and the complexity of your condition. Before moving forward with any spine surgery, Dr. Arutyunyan will discuss all potential risks with you and tailor the approach to suit your needs.

Potential Complications of Spinal Fusion

As with any major surgery, spinal fusion carries certain risks. Some patients may experience complications such as infection, nerve injury, or issues related to blood clots or blood loss during or after the procedure. Temporary or, rarely, lasting bowel or bladder difficulties can also occur.

A unique risk with spinal fusion surgery is the possibility that the fused bone and implant do not knit together as intended—a situation called non-union or failed fusion. If this happens, additional surgery may sometimes be necessary to achieve proper stabilization of the spine. There are also general risks linked to anesthesia, as with any surgical procedure.

Recovery and Returning to Normal Activities

Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how soon they can get back on their feet after PLIF surgery. Thanks to advancements in minimally invasive techniques, some individuals are able to leave the hospital the very next day, while others may need a bit more time for observation and recovery. As for getting back to daily routines, most people notice significant relief soon after the procedure, with ongoing improvement over the following weeks.

Achieving a smooth recovery and timely return to regular activities depends on maintaining a positive outlook, following Dr. Arutyunyan’s aftercare advice faithfully, and setting realistic expectations. Generally, patients can begin resuming their usual activities within several weeks post-surgery, but everyone’s timeline looks a little different depending on personal health and the specifics of their procedure.

Indications for PLIF Surgery

PLIF surgery is recommended for patients with conditions such as spondylolisthesis (grades 1-4), spinal instability, scoliosis, failed previous fusion surgeries, severe discogenic pain, recurrent disc prolapse, facet joint arthropathy, and bilateral foraminal stenosis. By addressing these underlying issues, PLIF surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve stability, and restore function to the lumbar spine.

The Traditional PLIF Technique

During a traditional PLIF procedure, Dr. Arutyunyan makes an incision on the patient’s back over the affected vertebrae. The lamina and facet joints may be trimmed to create more space for the nerve roots. The compressed nerve is then relieved by removing the problematic disc or bone spur. A cage filled with bone graft material is inserted between the vertebrae to promote fusion, and screws and rods are used to stabilize the spine. Finally, the soft tissues are re-approximated, and the incision is closed.

Comprehensive Care and Shared Decision Making

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we are committed to providing total quality care to our patients through our dedication to the practice of shared decision making. This medical concept involves active collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in making healthcare decisions that align with the patient’s values, preferences, and individual circumstances. We understand that each patient is unique, and their perspective is integral to crafting personalized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being and satisfaction.  Dr. Arutyunyan works closely with each individual to thoroughly discuss their condition, treatment options, and goals. Shared decision making is a fundamental aspect of our approach, empowering patients to make informed choices about their care and ensuring their needs and preferences are prioritized throughout the treatment process.

Contact Us for Expert Care

If you’re experiencing chronic back pain or have been diagnosed with a spinal condition that may require PLIF surgery, we encourage you to reach out to Dr. Arutyunyan and our team at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics. Our commitment to excellence and patient-centered care has earned us a reputation as one of the most trusted spine surgery practices in NYC. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.

Shared Decision Making

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we are committed to providing total quality care to our patients through our dedication to the practice of shared decision making. This medical concept involves active collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in making healthcare decisions that align with the patient’s values, preferences, and individual circumstances. We understand that each patient is unique, and their perspective is integral to crafting personalized treatment plans that prioritize their well-being and satisfaction.

Dr. Grigoriy Arutyunyan, MD (“Dr. A”)

Board Certified, Mayo Clinic-Trained Orthopedic Spine Surgeon & Founder
646-216-6222
Schedule An Appointment
Why Us
Reviews
Treatments
Conditions