The lumbar spine comprises the five lower back vertebrae, labeled L1 to L5, with potential surgical interventions such as ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion) often involving the intervertebral disc between the L5 vertebra and the S1 vertebra of the sacral spine. An initial low back exam includes inspecting the spine’s contour, noting the normal posterior curvature (kyphosis) and the anterior curvature (lordosis). A flat lower spine, or lack of lumbar lordosis, can be associated with low back pain.
Lumbar spondylosis, an age-related condition, encompasses the degeneration of vertebrae and discs, manifesting as degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis. For those requiring surgical intervention for spinal disorders, techniques such as Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) involve the removal of a spinal disc and the placement of a spacer, enhanced by screws and rods, to fuse two spinal bones. The University of Michigan Spine Surgery Program offers comprehensive, patient-centered services for such spinal conditions. University of Michigan Spine Surgery Program
Scoliosis is characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine, distinct from kyphosis, which is a forward-oriented curvature. This condition often develops during childhood or adolescence but can also occur in adults. Spondylolysis, commonly involving the L5 vertebra, can lead to pars fractures, especially in athletes engaged in sports that stress the lower back. The treatment may include a TLIF procedure, where a bone graft is used to fuse the bones of the spine. In some cases, a minimally invasive surgical approach such as lateral access spine surgery, which involves side incisions, may be preferred over other techniques like PLIF, TLIF, or ALIF.
For further information on these conditions and treatments, refer to the following resources:
ALIF: Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion,
Stanford Medicine 25: Back Exam,
Lumbar Spondylosis: Degeneration,
TLIF: Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion,
Scoliosis in Adults,
Spondylolysis and Pars Fracture,
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: TLIF, and
Spine Surgery: Lumbar Interbody Fusion.
