An TLIF is a specific type of lumbar fusion. It is a minimally invasive surgery that is indicated for spinal stenosis, disc herniation, extruded disc fragments, nerve root compression, stenosis, instability of the spine, spondylolithesis, degenerative disc disease, internal disc derangement, and correction of spinal deformities like scoliosis (see before and after pictures below).
Before Surgery
After Surgery
This surgery is performed through two small incision located on your side. The surgery is done by placing a small retractor in the incision that will expose the disc and nerve roots. The disc is then able to be removed and the XLIF device, which is like a spacer, is put in its place. The device will increase the disc height therefore opening the foraminal space (the space where the nerve exits the spinal cord). This allows the pressure to be taken off the nerve and in turn decrease nerve pain.
