Frequently Asked Questions About AxiaLIF^®

I saw the people on your Patient Stories video. Do all AxiaLIF Patients do so well?

We are pleased to say that the people seen in the video did very well. Likewise, in two separate studies, patients experienced a significant reduction in pain. However, results do vary from patient to patient.

Because this surgical procedure is minimally invasive compared with traditional fusion procedures, recovery time is significantly reduced in many cases.

What are the risks of this procedure?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks. However, when compared to other fusion procedures which enter your spine through the abdomen (ALIF) or directly through the back (PLIF), AxiaLIF has less risks. There is no need to bypass vital nerves, arteries or muscle, and no need to strip back muscles from your spine to get to the diseased disc. This sparing of soft tissue and muscle provides less risks and complications after your surgery.

How long will it take to get back to work?

How long will it take to return to my daily activities?

Your doctor will recommend that you take it easy for a couple of weeks. After about two weeks, the majority of AxiaLIF patients will be up and performing their daily activities. However, results do vary from patient to patient.

How much pain should I expect after the procedure is performed?

The amount of pain that a patient will experience immediately following the procedure can vary. This discomfort will tend to diminish over a short period of time.

In two separate patient studies, patients experienced a significant reduction in pain. Also, because this is minimally invasive in comparison to other fusion procedures, recovery time is significantly reduced in many cases.

How long will I have to stay in the hospital after surgery?

For a traditional fusion surgery, the average length of stay is four days*. AxiaLIF length of stay is typically one to two days. Some AxiaLIF procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and patients go home on the day of surgery.

*Selected Percentile Lengths of Stay, FY06 Final Notice Data, CMS 2006 

How many scars will I have from this procedure? How big will they be?

The AxiaLIF portion of the procedure carries only one scar which is about one-inch long and located next to your tailbone. Depending on your doctor, you may have further stabilization in your spine that would require one or two small vertical scars down each side of your back. Ask your doctor about posterior instrumentation such as facet screws or pedicle screws which further stabilize your spine after the AxiaLIF procedure is performed.

[top]