Is the Long Game Worth the Anterior Approach for Younger Patients?

For spine surgeons, the ALIF-versus-TLIF debate (anterior lumbar interbody fusion vs. transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion) has long resembled a classic rivalry. TLIF offers familiarity, efficiency, and often a smoother early recovery. ALIF promises powerful sagittal correction and restoration of disc height — but at the cost of a more extensive approach.