C
A
B
C
A
D
Images used with permission from Medtronic
Figure 20.2
These drawings illustrate a PLIF. ote how the cages (A) have been placed
in the cleared disc space. The picture on the left demonstrates what it looks
like if you could see the spine close-up from the side and the picture on the
right demonstrates what it looks like from the specialist’s perspective. One
can appreciate how close to the nerves (B) these cages are placed. Pedicle
screws (C) interconnected with rods are added to strengthen the construct
and keep the segment from moving until the fusion grows. Bone (D) is packed
over the sides of the vertebrae to enhance fusion.
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