There are a few potential advantages of choosing a minimally invasive TLIF procedure over traditional spine surgery. They include using a smaller incision and less disruption to muscle tissue. This procedure is generally performed in an outpatient setting. Most patients can resume normal activity within 14 – 21 days after their surgery.
The TLIF procedure allows for a substantial lumbar nerve decompression which can alleviate symptoms related to disc herniation and spinal stenosis. As the pressure on the nerves is relieved, symptoms of leg pain and sciatica and radiculopathy can be eliminated.
A successful TLIF procedure allows for direct decompression of the nerves. As such, only a small incision is required to achieve such an extensive decompression of the nerves.
The goal of this procedure is to stabilise the spine, minimising low back and leg pain. This procedure stops the motion of the affected disc level by placing screws, rods and bone graft to promote the two vertebrae to become one bone (spinal fusion).
Typically 2-3 cm incisions are made on either side of the lumbar spine. After the incisions are made, a minimally invasive approach is made down to the vertebral body using dilating tubes. The surgeon then ensures that spinal screws are securely placed into the vertebral body of spine. Live x-ray and live nerve monitoring are used to ensure that the screws are placed accurately.
A herniated disc occurs when inflammatory proteins from a disc’s inner core leak out.
Degenerative disc disease is when normal changes that take place in the discs of your spine cause pain.
Spinal stenosis happens when the spaces in the spine narrow and create pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.