TLIF Surgery in India

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a modern approach to spinal fusion surgery focused on the lower back. During TLIF, an intervertebral disc is removed, and two or more spinal bones are fused together using screws and a cage. This procedure aims to stabilize the spine and alleviate symptoms by eliminating the intervertebral disc in the lower back.
What do you stand to gain from the surgery?
The TLIF method excels in restoring the height between vertebrae and correcting the curvature of the spine. This not only stabilizes the spine but also enhances its ability to fuse. By minimizing nerve retraction, reducing abrasions, and maintaining a more bony surface for fusion, TLIF reduces operating time, blood loss, and the risk of nerve damage during surgery.
Investigation Required to Diagnose The Procedure
To determine the underlying issue, a neurological examination and a detailed medical history are typically required. The history of symptoms plays a crucial role in the assessment process. In addition to these assessments, imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, and other diagnostic procedures may also be employed to provide further insight into the condition.
Who actually needs this surgery?
TLIF is recommended for patients experiencing disc protrusion that compresses nerve roots, lumbar canal stenosis, lateral recess stenosis, or severe back pain. Surgery is typically advised when other non-invasive treatment options have been exhausted without success.
What is the procedure for the surgery?
Step 1: A back cut is made for the TLIF procedure. This lets the back of the spine be seen.

Step 2: In the vertebra, pedicle screws are put in.

Step 3: The facet joints are taken out on one side while the nerve roots are kept safe. This exposes the disc space.

Step 4: The space on the disc is read, and material from the disc is taken away.

Step 5: The patient’s iliac crest is used to get a bone graft (the hip).

Step 6: To keep the height of the disc, a spacer or interbody cage filled with bone graft is put into the space between the vertebrae.

Step 7: The side grooves of the vertebra and the disc space are filled with more bone.

Step 8: Rods or plates hold the pedicle screws in place.

Step 9: The cut has been stitched up.
Recovery and post-op to keep in mind
Patients undergoing TLIF spinal fusion surgery usually stay in the hospital for three to five days. Some patients may require a blood transfusion during their recovery. Physical therapy typically begins the day after surgery, with gradual mobility encouraged. In some cases, a spinal brace may be used to support the spine during early stages of recovery.
The risks and problems of the surgery
While every surgical procedure carries inherent risks, Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) specifically presents potential complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, nerve injury, and even mortality. Additionally, other issues may include:

• Blood thickens
• The bones might not join well
• Pain at the surgery site
• When bones join together, your spine tends to become less flexible.

Most of the time, this only makes it harder to move, which isn’t a big deal.
How often TLIF back surgery works
After TLIF spinal fusion surgery, studies show that the patient’s pain goes down by 60% to 70%.
TLIF Surgery cost in India are as follow