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Updated: May 1, 2026

Lateral-PLIF for Lumbar Spinal Arthrodesis: A Detailed Step-By-Step Surgical Technique
Published on: January 23, 2026
Contemporary approaches and advancements to the Lapidus procedure
Bob Baravarian1, Rotem Ben-Ad2
1Podiatric Foot and Ankle Surgery, Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center and Orthopedic Hospital, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA; University Foot and Ankle Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Abstract:
The Lapidus procedure as evolved over the last 50 years. What originally was a difficult procedure with poor outcomes has changed to a procedure that allows for ideal realignment of the deformity at its source, improved foot alignment, and minimal to no need for further surgery. The authors now use a weight bearing plate which has improved overall patient care, with a minimized risk of nonunions, and more rapid return to early weight bearing and range of motion. This method has opened up the procedure to more patients, decreased the recovery time, and allowed for early physical therapy, resulting in outstanding patient outcomes.

