title: [Anterior lumbar interbody fusion. Indications, technique, advantages and disadvantages].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) for lumbar interbody fusion from L2 to the sacrum has been an established technique for decades.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The advantages and disadvantages of ALIF compared to posterior interbody fusion techniques are discussed. The operative technique is described in detail. Complications and avoidance strategies are discussed.
  
  
  METHODS
  This article is based on a selective literature search using PubMed and the experience of the authors in this medical field.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The advantages of ALIF compared to posterior fusion techniques are the free approach to the anterior disc space without opening of the spinal canal or the neural foramina. This gives the possibility of an extensive anterior release and placement of the largest possible cages without the risk of neural structure damage. The disadvantages of ALIF are the additional anterior approach and the related complications. The most frequent complication is due to damage of vessels. The rate of complications is significantly increased in revision surgery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The ALIF technique meaningfully expands the repertoire of the spinal surgeon especially for the treatment of non-union after interbody fusion, in patients with epidural scar tissue at the index level and spinal infections. Advantages and disadvantages should be considered when evaluating the indications for ALIF.
authors.affiliation: Wirbelsäulenzentrum, St.-Josefs Hospital, Beethovenstraße 20, 65189, Wiesbaden, Deutschland, mrichter@joho.de.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Richter
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Weidenfeld
authors.forename: F P
authors.initials: FP
authors.lastname: Uckmann
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D055959:Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery*; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*