Transforaminal Lumbar interbody fusion surgery

Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion surgery is a kind of fusion spine surgery that is performed on the lower back of the spine to remove the intervertebral disc and fuse two or more spine vertebrae/ spine bones. The Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery involves the decompression of the nerves in the lower back, removal of a facet joint, removal of the intervertebral disc, the fusion of the spine using a cage (Usually termed as interbody cage), and stabilization of the disc level by inserting screws in the adjacent spinal bones.

Potential advantages of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery

The potential benefits of this interbody fusion surgery are

Small incision size
Less disruption to adjacent muscle tissues
Reduction of back pain, pain in legs, numbness, tingling, and weakness
Stabilization of the unstable spine
Improved lower back and leg functionality
Reduction of medication intake
Improved quality of life

The treatment procedure of the TLIF surgery

The transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery is done to stabilize the spine by removing the intervertebral disc and restricting the movement between the spinal segment. The bone graft placed in the disc space heals in a few months resulting in the fusion of vertebrae together stabilizing the spine.

To do so, an incision is made in the back and part of the vertebrae is removed to access the damaged disc. Once the surgeon gets to access the damaged disc, it is removed and a bone graft is placed in this space. The bone graft aligns with the vertebrae and starts to fuse with the adjacent bones. Additional support is provided with the help of screws and rods. The bone graft will grow through the implant which forms a connection between the upper and the lower vertebrae and this solid bone bridge is known as fusion.

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery is an inpatient surgery and the patient is usually allowed to go back home within 2-3 days and in some cases, patient might require to stay in the hospital for 4-5 days. The patients can start with all the normal activities within 2-3 weeks post-surgery.

Risks and complications of Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery

This fusion surgery is a safe procedure yet some complications can be observed by a small fraction of patients. Some of the risks and complications associated with Transforaminal Lumbar interbody Fusion surgery may include-

No improvement in the symptoms
Infection
Worsening pain, tingling, or weakness
Blood transfusion
Blood clots in the wound area
Cerebral fluid leak
Repetitive nerve compressions
Injury to bowel or blood vessels
Nerve damage
Deterioration of the adjacent disc

If you have been advised to undergo the Transforaminal Lumbar interbody Fusion surgery by your doctor, then get a second opinion from another neurosurgeon and be well informed about all the available options and corresponding risks associated with each procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) surgery and how is it performed?

TLIF is a posterior spinal fusion surgery in which the disc is accessed and removed through one side (transforaminal approach), followed by insertion of a fusion cage and pedicle screw fixation. It is used for lumbar spondylolisthesis, disc degeneration, and spinal instability. The transforaminal approach minimizes nerve retraction and reduces surgical risks.

Is minimally invasive TLIF (MIS-TLIF) available in Abu Dhabi and what are its benefits?

Yes. Dr. Rajeswaran performs minimally invasive TLIF (MIS-TLIF) using tubular retractors, which causes less muscle damage, less blood loss, shorter hospital stay (1–3 days vs 3–5 days for open TLIF), and faster recovery. It is particularly beneficial for patients who are poor candidates for open surgery due to age or medical comorbidities.

How long does it take to fully recover from TLIF spinal fusion surgery?

Initial recovery from TLIF takes 4–6 weeks for return to light activities. Full recovery including bone fusion typically takes 3–6 months, confirmed by CT scan. Physiotherapy begins at 4–6 weeks post-surgery. Return to heavy physical work or sports is usually cleared at 6 months following successful fusion.

Transforaminal Lumbar interbody fusion surgery

Potential advantages of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery

The treatment procedure of the TLIF surgery

Risks and complications of Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Arun Rajeswaran

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