English
Posterior and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Bhubaneswar

Posterior and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion

Posterior and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Bhubaneswar

Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) is a procedure that involves accessing and promoting fusion by inserting a bone graft in the lower or lumbar region from behind or in the middle of the patient’s back. The surgery is commonly performed on the L4-L5 or L5-S1 segments of the lumbar spine. It is done by performing an incision in the midline lumbar region, removing the intervertebral disc between the two vertebrae, and inserting a cage and bone graft between them, restoring the spine's mobility. Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) is similar to PLIF, but the incision is made slightly more from the side of the back. The surgical goals of both procedures are to provide stability and support to the spine and enhance the fusion process between two vertebrae. 

At Manipal Hospitals, trained and highly qualified spine surgeons employ advanced minimally invasive methods to perfom Posterior and Transforaminal Lumbar interbody fusion in Bhubaneswar to address a patient's spine instability. By utilising cutting-edge techniques, our team ensures efficient outcomes and patient well-being during the procedure. 

 

 

 

FAQ's

PLIF and TLIF procedures address various ailments that affect the vertebrae and spine. Conditions that the procedures address include:
 

  • Individuals experiencing leg pain or sciatica, where the pain is radiated towards the leg due to nerve compression in the spine

  • Lumbar radiculopathy

  • Spondylosis

  • Degenerative disc disease

  • Spinal Stenosis

  • Scoliosis

  • Recurrent disc herniation

  • Instability of the spine (spondylolisthesis)

  • Pseudarthrosis

 

The time duration for PLIF and TLIF generally depends on parameters such as the severity of the condition, the technique used, i.e., whether it is open or minimally invasive, the number of spinal levels targeted for fusion, and the surgeon. Fusion of vertebrae usually takes 1-2 hours, and the patient will be present in the operating room for 2-3 hours, accounting for the time taken for anaesthesia, positioning, and waking up from surgery. Minimal invasive PLIF and TLIF require slightly more time for setup and calibration of automated navigation systems like robotics or other technologies during the procedure.

Recovery time can be different from patient to patient and is based on the seriousness of the condition and the pace of recovery. Minimally invasive PLIF and TLIF procedures may be discharged on the same day due to fewer incisions during the surgery, enhancing recovery. Patients generally stay in the hospital for 3-5 days. During your stay in the hospital, your specialist will recommend you undergo physical therapy to gain strength. Total recovery time may take between 6 and 12 weeks. It is essential to adhere to your doctor’s prescribed medication schedule and attend follow-up check-ups to evaluate your progress. 

Patients who had PLIF surgery can typically return to work or resume driving within two weeks post-surgery. Those who undergo TLIF surgery can often return to desk jobs and regular activities within 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure. However, jobs involving strenuous physical activity are usually recommended after a recovery period of 8 to 12 weeks following surgery. For individuals who opt for minimally invasive PLIF and TLIF procedures, the recovery time is generally shorter compared to traditional open surgery.

TLIF and PLIF procedures are generally performed for two main reasons: to relieve pressure in the spinal nerves and spinal cord, and to provide stability to the spine. The success rate of PLIF and TLIF procedures typically falls within the range of 90% to 95%. The remaining 5% may be attributed to factors like surgical complications or recurrences. The numbers indicate that with the current advancements, TLIF and PLIF procedures will improve patient satisfaction and ensure positive outcomes.

The most significant technique to enhance your recovery is to give yourself plenty of rest after PLIF and TLIF surgery. Other recovery tips include:

  • Adhering to your personalised medication and its schedule tailored by your doctor

  • Getting enough sleep

  • Maintaining a balanced diet

  • Performing physical therapy exercises and going for daily walks

  • Restricting yourself from smoking, drinking, and tobacco use

  • Maintaining a balanced diet

  • Using ice packs, heating pads, and showering with hot water 

Additional surgery during a PLIF or TLIF procedure may be considered if bone grafts need to be harvested from the patient's iliac region or obtained from a donor. In revision surgeries, such procedures are required in only 10 to 15% of cases due to complications like improper fusion, cage malfunction, or segment degeneration.

Home Bhubaneswar Specialities Spine-care Posterior-and-transforaminal-lumbar-interbody-fusion-2

Appointment
Health Check
Contact Us
review icon
Review Us
Call Us