
Minimally Invasive TILF
Minimally Invasive TLIF or Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion surgery decompresses spinal nerves to provide pain relief to patients suffering from spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, or nerve compression. TLIF surgery joins two vertebrae together in order to decompress nerve roots and create a stronger, more stable spine.
Who needs Minimally Invasive TILF
Patients who have the following symptoms are eligible for a Minimally Invasive TLIF procedure:
- The patient has been diagnosed with a herniated disc.
- The patient has been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease.
- Severe Neck Pain because of the diagnosis.
- Severe Back Pain because of the diagnosis.
- Numbness in leg and foot.
- Nonsurgical treatments have failed.
How is Minimally Invasive TILF Performed?
A minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion TLIF is performed in four simple steps:
- The anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia.
- A small incision is made on the anterior side. The surgeon inserts a small tube that rests on the spine. The rest of the operation is performed through the tube with the help of specialized instruments. Small incisions reduce the amount of blood loss and aids in quick patient recovery.
- The surgeon uses a bone graft or a bone graft substitute to fuse the vertebral bodies of the affected discs, pedicle screws and rods are used to strengthen the fusion and increase spine stability.
- The tools and tubes are retracted, and the incision is closed with sutures. The patient is discharged the day after the surgery and completely recovers within 2-4 weeks.
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FAQ’S
What Is the Recovery Time for TLIF Surgery?
- Complete recovery from a TLIF surgery varies from case to case; typically, recovery ranges from six to twelve weeks.
How Should I Sleep After Lumbar Fusion?
- The best sleeping position after lumbar fusion to reduce your pain after surgery is on your back with your knees bent and a pillow under your knees.
- Or on your side with your knees bent and a pillow between your legs.
How Successful Is TLIF Surgery?
- Pain improvement is reported from 60 percent to 70 percent after TLIF spinal fusion surgery.
- Around 80 percent of patients who went through a TLIF surgery are satisfied with the results.
Can You Live a Normal Life After Spinal Fusion?
- Yes, even people who undergo bigger spinal surgeries have a 90% chance of returning to work and stay at work for a long time.
- With a healthy lifestyle and following the rehabilitation course, you can expect to get back to work and ‘get your life back’ as well.