How is a TLIF surgery done?
How is a TLIF surgery done?
TLIF procedure is performed through a posterior incision exposing the back of the spine. Pedicle screws are placed into the vertebra. Exposure of the disc space is done on one side by removing the facet joints and protecting the nerve roots. The disc space is entered and disc material is removed.
What kind of surgery is TLIF?
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a contemporary approach to spinal fusion surgery. It is an operation performed on the lower back to remove an intervertebral disc and join two or more spinal bones (vertebrae) together using screws and a cage.
How long does TLIF surgery take?
The length of this procedure depends on the number of levels that are being fused. A one level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion typically takes between 2-3 hours.
What happens with a TLIF?
A TLIF procedure allows the surgeon to insert bone graft and spacer into the disc space from a unilateral approach laterally without having to forcefully retract the nerve roots as much, which may reduce injury and scarring around the nerve roots when compared to a PLIF procedure.
How painful is TLIF surgery?
In general, most patients will undergo general anesthesia during spine procedures meaning you will be asleep and wont remember or feel any pain during the procedure itself. Patients may have pain upon waking up from anesthesia, but this will be managed with intravenous and oral pain medications.
Is TLIF minimally invasive?
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a minimally invasive fusion of the vertebrae of the lumbar region (lower back). It is designed to provide stability to the spine and treat back and leg pain.
How long does pain last after TLIF?
You will feel the initial post- operative soreness for at least a few weeks after surgery and that is generally how long it can take to return to desk/office type work. More physical work may require up to 6 weeks recovery to feel up to that level of activity.
How long is recovery from TLIF surgery?
On average, patients take about 6 to 12 weeks to recover from their TLIF operation. Physical Therapy may be recommended by your surgeon in order to speed up the recovery process. Some patients feel even better after 4 weeks of recovery.
How big is the incision for TLIF surgery?
In a traditional open TLIF, a 3- to 6-inch incision is typically required. The muscles surrounding the spine will then be dilated to allow access to the section of spine to be stabilized. After the spine is accessed, the lamina (the “roof” of the vertebra) is removed to allow visualization of the nerve roots.
What is the success rate of TLIF surgery?
Success Rates for TLIF Back Surgery Studies indicate that the patient’s pain is improved 60% to 70% after TLIF spinal fusion surgery and approximately 80% of patients undergoing TLIF spinal fusion surgery are satisfied with the surgical result.