Wockhardt Hospitals Blog

Wockhardt Hospitals Mulund, Mumbai, successfully performed the most advanced minimally invasive spine surgery called Transforaminal Lumbar interbody Fusion (TLIF) surgery to treat unstable spine.

Transforaminal Lumbar interbody Fusion (TLIF) is a very recent, most advanced and highly skilled form of spine surgery for fusion of two or more vertebrae of the lumbar (lower back) spine. The minimally invasive technique is best recommended for appropriately screened patients suffering from Degenerative spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, lumbar canal stenosis, black disc, nerve compression with associated low back pain.

Until recently, all patients for fusion surgeries of the lumbar spine have had to undergo a strenuous surgical procedure known as Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) involving large midline incisions for cutting of muscles, ligaments and bone in the lower back. While PLIF surgeries are known to offer good results, the surgery involves large incisions that could cause damage to important muscles, intraoperative bleeding followed by prolonged bed rest. Additionally, there is increased chance of nerve injury due to handling of nerve tissues during surgery - all of which could lead to Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.

TLIF Surgeries have been Pioneered at Wockhardt Hospitals,Mulund according to Dr. Vikas Gupte, Consultant Spine Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals , “TLIF is far more beneficial than conventional PILF surgeries as it is a minimally invasive surgery done through a 3-cm incision. The surgery has hardly any bleeding and there is no need for blood transfusion. Further advantages include preserving the normal structures of the body. The patient can be mobilized faster and can stand and walk the day after the surgery.”

“Various factors are taken into consideration before recommending a TLIF, including the condition to be treated, age and health of the patient, lifestyle and anticipated level of activity following surgery,” explains Dr. Gupte. As such, patients suffering from Degenerative spondylolisthesis, Degenerated disc disease, Black disc, Foraminal /lateral stenosis, Spondylolysis - Instability, and Nerve compression with associated low back pain may be candidates for TLIF.

The patients was able to walk the very next day following the TLIF which is a three and-half-hour procedure. They were discharged around the fourth day after the surgery. However, physiotherapy and exercise was advised from Day 1. Their recovery was faster within three to four days as compared to two-three months following PILF surgery.

For consultations and appointments with Spine Surgeon,Dr Vikas Gupte email us at enquiries@wockhardthospitals.net