OLIF (Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion) surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks. This technique involves accessing the spine through an incision in the anterior abdominal wall, navigating between the intestines and major blood vessels. While rare, there is a risk of injury to these structures during the operation. Although direct nerve manipulation is typically avoided during OLIF, prolonged pressure from retractors used to access the surgical site can sometimes lead to temporary thigh pain or numbness. Post-operatively, even in the absence of direct bowel injury, patients may experience a temporary slowing of bowel function, such as ileus or 'lazy bowel'.