Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

A TLIF is a type of surgery that focuses on relieving pressure on the lumbar spine discs and stabilizing the spine through fusion.

In some cases, a TLIF procedure may be necessary to provide additional stabilization to the spine after decompressive surgery, such as surgically relieving pressure on nerve roots.

The patient will be made comfortable and then put to sleep by the anesthesia team. An incision will be made in the middle of the lower back. Part or all of the lamina (back of the vertebrae) will be removed, and the joint on one side will also be removed. A surgical window is created to access the intervertebral disc. The disc is then removed and replaced with a spacer. Screws and rods are also inserted into the vertebra above and below the disc space to promote stabilization, realignment of the spine, and fusion over time. This procedure may require a few days stay in the hospital.