Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion with Disc Replacement

Medically reviewed by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — dual board-certified spine surgeon & neurosurgeon. Last reviewed October 2026.

This anterior lumbar procedure reaches the lower-back disc from the front of the body, removes the worn disc, and places a large implant that restores disc height and alignment while supporting the segment — all while sparing the back muscles that a posterior approach would disturb.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

The Anterior Lumbar Approach

Procedure Overview

This procedure reaches the lumbar spine through the front of the abdomen — an anterior approach that avoids the back muscles entirely. The worn disc is removed and a large interbody implant is placed, which restores disc height, improves alignment, and supports the segment. The anterior corridor allows a bigger, better-seated implant than a posterior approach, which is an advantage for restoring height and alignment.

Conditions We Treat

Am I a Candidate?

It's considered for degenerative disc disease and loss of disc height or alignment at suitable lower lumbar levels, when an anterior approach is appropriate. A careful evaluation — including whether supplemental fixation is needed — determines whether this or another approach (such as a posterior TLIF) best fits your spine.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

Benefits & Risks

Expected Outcomes

For well-selected patients and levels, the anterior approach restores disc height and alignment especially effectively while sparing the back muscles. Outcomes depend on candidacy and the specifics of your spine, which a thorough evaluation establishes. We set clear, individualized expectations.

Life Beyond the Pain

How It's Performed

Through a small incision at the front of the abdomen, the surgeon carefully reaches the front of the lumbar spine, removes the worn disc, and places a large interbody implant to restore height and alignment. Supplemental fixation may be added depending on your anatomy. The back muscles are left undisturbed throughout.

Recovery & Return to Activity

The front approach spares the back muscles, which can aid recovery, though the abdominal approach has its own early soreness. Your timeline depends on whether fixation was added and your overall health.

Insurance, Out-of-Network & Cost

Cost and coverage shouldn't stand between you and relief. Desert Spine and Pain welcomes out-of-network patients and will walk you through what your evaluation and treatment are likely to involve before anything is scheduled — so there are no surprises. We'll help you understand your benefits and options, whether you're using insurance, paying out-of-pocket, or being treated under a personal-injury claim.

Proudly Serving the Greater Phoenix, Arizona Area

Why Choose Our Spine Specialists in Phoenix

Choosing the right spine specialist in Phoenix matters. At Desert Spine and Pain, your care is led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — a physician who is both a board-certified spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. That dual expertise is rare, and it means one expert can guide you across the full spectrum of care — from a simple injection to complex surgery — and recommend what is genuinely best for you, whether you need a spine doctor for conservative care or a surgeon when surgery is truly the answer.

Anterior Lumbar Procedure: Frequently Asked Questions