01 — Overview
A TLIF is performed from behind, working through the foramen on one side. That corridor allows the nerve root to be decompressed directly and the disc space reached without retracting the dural sac across the midline. It can be performed open or through tubular retractors.
02 — Who it suits
- Spondylolisthesis with leg symptoms
- Stenosis with instability at the same level
- Recurrent disc herniation with loss of disc height
- Degenerative disease at one or more lumbar levels
03 — How it is done
The facet joint on the symptomatic side is removed, exposing the disc and the nerve roots. The disc is cleared, an interbody cage packed with graft is inserted, and pedicle screws and rods complete the construct.
04 — Recovery
Walking is generally encouraged early. Bending, lifting and twisting are restricted while the fusion matures, and the length of that period is discussed with you as part of planning.
05 — Conditions treated
- Spondylolisthesis & Spinal Instability A condition where a vertebra slips out of place onto the bone below it, causing pain and nerve compression.
- Spinal Stenosis A narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Lumbar Disc Disease Degeneration or herniation of discs in the lower back, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs due to nerve compression.
- Degenerative Disc Disease A condition where the spinal discs wear down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential nerve compression.
Timelines and techniques described here are general. Your own plan depends on your anatomy, your imaging and your medical history, and is decided with you at consultation.
