What is Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion? | ALIF

Just had this surgery done 3 days ago

In what cases can an ALIF be performed solely from the front, without going in the back?

I had ALIF surgery on October 12th.
Was up and walking just after waking up. The only discomfort I was having
Was the incision on the belly. My back felt fine and no pain meds. Went home the next day.
I to use a cane “JUST IN CASE” but it is not needed to get around.
As others have said, “wearing the back brace” all the time except when sleeping and showering.
My only big chore is avoiding the dreaded “BLT”.
I had read all of the horror stories about how painful the surgery was for some people but in my case it was a breeze. I either got lucky and/or I had great surgeons.

I had a ALIF Lumbar fusion in April and looking at my xrays yesterday I noticed all these little specs in the xray and found out they were staples? Probably 15 to 20? I was never told they would be using staples and what are they for? Will they dissolve or just be there forever. What are they made of and what are they used for? I am not talking about the incision they are near the hardware and cage? Thanks for any information.

no!!! this takes away all movement in the patient.

isnt this a 360 fusion ? Isnt ALIF common with a anterior plate?

Surgeons are today's wizards! 🙌

So they still have to go through the back to put the screws in, too? Why not just go through the back for all of it?