Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a technique for fusing vertebrae in the lumbar spine (low back). It is used to treat degenerative spinal disorders and symptoms, including lumbar stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, radiculopathy (nerve root compression causing buttock or leg pain), and back pain.

The procedure is performed from the back (posterior) part of the spine. One of the facet joints is drilled away (see below), providing access to the diseased spinal disc. The disc is removed, and an implant and bone graft are inserted into the disc space. Screws and rods are inserted on either side of the spine to stabilize the vertebrae so that bony fusion can occur.

TLIF offers the ability to increase the height of a diseased disc space, thereby taking pressure off of nearby nerve roots and helping restore the natural alignment of the spine. It also increases the rate of successful bony fusion over traditional posterior spinal fusion (PSF).

Whether a TLIF or an alternative such as a lumbar laminectomy or ALIF is the right procedure for you will depend on your particular symptoms, the anatomy of your spine, and whether you have had prior interventions on your spine. We will discuss these factors in your office visit.

If you live near Denver and have back pain or leg pain from a degenerative lumbar spine disorder, please consider meeting me in consultation to learn about your treatment options.