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A Minimally Invasive Option for Enhanced Recovery and Comfort
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The CemLIF screwless and rodless fusion procedure is a groundbreaking approach to lumbar fusion surgery designed to minimize pain, reduce recovery time, and eliminate the need for large incisions. Unlike traditional fusions, which rely on screws and rods to stabilize the spine, CemLIF achieves stability through a combination of an interbody spacer and advanced cement augmentation. This technique allows for a strong, effective fusion without the need for additional hardware or a posterior incision.
CemLIF is ideal for patients seeking a minimally invasive solution to alleviate chronic back pain and improve spine stability. Developed by Dr. Mark Frenkel, CemLIF offers a safer, more comfortable path to recovery, allowing patients to regain mobility and quality of life with less postoperative discomfort.
Traditional lumbar fusion surgery often involves screws and rods placed through a posterior incision to stabilize the spine. While this approach can be effective, it often results in a painful recovery, increased surgical time, and a higher risk of postoperative pain. For many patients, the presence of hardware and the additional incisions contribute to a more challenging healing process. CemLIF offers a streamlined alternative, reducing the need for extensive hardware and enhancing the patient experience.
The CemLIF-A procedure is performed using an anterior approach through the abdomen, ideal for accessing the L5-S1 level. This is an anterior lumbar interbody fusion approach (ALIF). In this approach, a general or vascular surgeon begins with a small incision on the lower abdomen, providing the CemLIF surgeon direct access to the front of the spine.
Once exposed, the damaged disc is removed, and a spacer is positioned to restore disc height and relieve pressure on surrounding nerves. Bone cement is then applied to secure the spacer to the adjacent vertebrae, creating a stable fusion without the need for screws or rods.
The CemLIF-L procedure is performed using a lateral approach, ideal for accessing lumbar levels above L5-S1, including L4-5, L3-4, L2-3, and L1-2. This is a lateral lumbar interbody fusion approach (LLIF). In this approach, the CemLIF surgeon makes a small incision on the side, providing direct access to these higher lumbar levels.
After accessing the spine, the surgeon removes the disc and places a spacer to restore disc height and decompress nearby nerves. Thin, curved needles are then carefully inserted through the back, passing into the vertebrae above and below the spacer. As the needles are withdrawn, bone cement is injected, binding the vertebrae and spacer securely together, achieving stable fusion without additional hardware.
CemLIF was developed to provide a less invasive, effective option for patients needing lumbar fusion. If you’re struggling with chronic back pain, nerve compression, or spinal instability, CemLIF may be an ideal solution. This procedure is especially beneficial for patients seeking shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain compared to traditional fusion methods.
CemLIF May Be Right for You If:
• You have chronic lumbar pain or instability that has not improved with non-surgical treatments.
• A surgeon has recommended another lumbar vertebrae fusion surgery, such as a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF), anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), or other lumbar fusion surgery.
• You are looking for a minimally invasive approach with reduced recovery time.
• You want to avoid the large incisions and hardware associated with traditional lumbar fusion surgeries.
• You are interested in a procedure that uses advanced cement augmentation for stable, lasting fusion.
To find out if CemLIF is the best option for your needs, consult with Dr. Frenkel and his team. Together, you can discuss your unique case and determine the most suitable treatment path for achieving lasting relief and improved quality of life.
