Tlif surgery
Procedure Overview:
- Incision: A small incision is made in the back to access the affected vertebrae.
- Disc Removal: The surgeon removes the damaged disc between the vertebrae.
- Bone Graft and Cage Placement: A bone graft, sometimes with a cage, is placed into the disc space to maintain proper spacing and promote fusion of the vertebrae.
- Fusion: Screws and rods are used to stabilize the spine while the bones heal and fuse together.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive approach.
- Smaller incision compared to traditional methods.
- Faster recovery time.
- Less damage to muscles and tissues.
Recovery:
- Hospital stay may last a few days.
- Physical therapy is often recommended post-surgery.
- Full recovery typically takes several months as the bone fusion completes.
Key Steps in TLIF Surgery:
- Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
- Incision: A small incision is made on one side of the spine (posterior approach).
- Access to the Spine: The muscles are carefully retracted, and the surgeon removes part of the bone or ligaments covering the spine to reach the affected vertebrae and disc.
- Disc Removal: The damaged or degenerated disc between the vertebrae is removed.
- Bone Graft and Cage Placement: A bone graft (which may be taken from the patient’s pelvis or a donor) and a specialized cage are placed into the disc space to maintain proper spacing between the vertebrae.
- Stabilization: Screws and rods are placed to hold the vertebrae together, promoting the fusion of the bones as they heal.
Advantages:
- Minimally Invasive Option: Compared to traditional open spine surgeries, TLIF is often performed using a minimally invasive technique, leading to less muscle damage, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery.
- Direct Access to the Disc Space: The surgeon can remove the damaged disc directly and decompress the nerve roots effectively.
- Better Fusion Success: The bone graft and cage support lead to a higher chance of successful fusion and long-term stability.
Risks and Complications:
Like any surgery, TLIF has some risks, such as:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Pain at the bone graft site
- Failed fusion (requiring revision surgery)
Procedure:
1. Incision: A 2-3 inch incision is made in the back.
2. Muscle retraction: Muscles are gently retracted to access the spine.
3. Facetectomy: Small bones (facets) are removed to access the disc.
4. Disc removal: The damaged disc is removed.
5. Interbody fusion: A cage and implant is placed between the vertebrae.
6. Bone grafting: Bone graft and biologics promote fusion.
7. Pedicle screw fixation: Screws stabilize the vertebrae.
At our Neurosys Multispeciality Center, we perform several key procedures including Craniotomy, which is primarily for the excision of brain tumors; V-P Shunt Surgery for treating hydrocephalus; surgeries for epilepsy; and operations targeting brain stem glioma. Beyond these, we offer a range of other neurosurgical services. If you have any questions that are not answere, please contact us through our Contact Us or Book your Appointment.