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Durban, South Africa
| Speciality | Orthopedics |
| Procedure | TLIF |
| Success Rate | 85-95% |
| Recovery Time | 2-4 months |
| Treatment Time | 2-3 hours |
| Chances of Recurrence | Low |
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) is a surgical procedure used to treat certain spinal conditions affecting the lumbar (lower) region of the spine. The surgeon enters the spine from the side during TLIF to remove damaged disc material and insert bone grafts into the intervertebral space. This promotes vertebral fusion, which stabilizes the spine and relieves nerve pressure.
Medical conditions that can be treated through TLIF include degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis.
After a TLIF, the recovery process includes a few days in the hospital to monitor healing and manage pain. To regain strength and flexibility, patients will gradually resume light activities and physical therapy. A back brace may be used at first to support the spine during the healing process. The total recovery time varies, but it usually takes several months for the bone to fuse completely. Following postoperative instructions is extremely important for a quick recovery.
