Praveen Kadimcherla, MD, of Orange, N.J.-based Atlantic Spine Center, outlines the most important aspects of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.
Here are six key points on TLIF:
1. In TLIF, surgeons obtain access to the spine from a posterolateral view.
2. Surgeons perform the surgery on patients with various conditions including bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, disc tears, failed back surgery, facet joint syndrome and foraminal stenosis.
3. Surgeons use tubulator retractors in TLIF procedures, placing the tools into a tiny incision and through soft tissue to the designated spot on the spine. The surgeons then implant material that maintain proper vertebrae spacing as the bones grow together.
4. The procedure takes usually 90 minutes or less.
5. Most TLIF procedures are performed in an outpatient setting. Dr. Kadimcherla said, "Many patients are able to get up, walk around and return home within a few hours after surgery. After the initial recovery, many patients benefit from a course of physical therapy to help their back muscles become stronger and more flexible."
6. The benefits of the procedure include minimal blood loss and less pain medication following surgery.
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