Advanced TLIF Spine Surgery
A Targeted Approach to Spinal Fusion
Translumbar interbody fusion, or TLIF, removes a damaged disc and places a spacer packed with bone graft material directly between the two vertebrae, fusing them together from an angle that helps protect surrounding nerves. It's often used to treat spondylolisthesis or a herniated or bulging disc that's causing ongoing instability.
At HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, Dr. John Shiau and Dr. John Morrison evaluate whether TLIF surgery is the right fit based on your specific anatomy and how your condition has progressed.
If spinal instability is affecting your daily life, request a consultation with HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care today.
What to Expect from TLIF Surgery
Understanding the Procedure and Recovery
When TLIF Surgery Is Recommended
This procedure is typically considered when:
- A vertebra has slipped and is causing ongoing instability
- A herniated or bulging disc has led to significant nerve compression
- Conservative treatment hasn't provided lasting relief
- Additional support is needed at the front of the spine, not just the back
How the TLIF Procedure Works
The surgeon removes the damaged disc through an angled approach that helps avoid disturbing the nerves as much as possible. A spacer filled with bone graft material is then placed in the empty disc space, and screws and rods are added to hold everything in place while the bone fuses over time.
What Recovery Looks Like
Recovery from TLIF surgery is a gradual process, and generally follows this pattern:
- Right After Surgery: A short hospital stay is common for monitoring and initial recovery.
- First Few Weeks: Activity is limited while the fusion begins to set, often with guidance on movement and lifting restrictions.
- Longer Term: Full fusion can take several months, with physical therapy supporting a gradual return to normal activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does TLIF stand for, and what does it involve?
TLIF stands for translumbar interbody fusion, a procedure that removes a damaged disc and replaces it with a spacer to restore height and stability between two vertebrae, combined with screws and rods for additional support. The angled surgical approach used in TLIF is designed to access the disc space while minimizing disruption to the nerves nearby.
How is TLIF different from posterior spinal fusion?
TLIF adds a spacer directly between the vertebral bodies to support the front portion of the spine, in addition to the hardware placed from the back, while a standard posterior spinal fusion stabilizes the spine from the back alone. TLIF is often considered when additional front-column support is needed, such as after removing a significantly damaged disc.
What does TLIF surgery cost, and is it covered by insurance?
The cost of TLIF surgery depends on factors like the extent of the procedure and your specific insurance plan. HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care accepts most major insurance plans, and our team is happy to review coverage details during your consultation.
Will transportation be provided on the day of my surgery?
Yes. The surgical center provides transportation to and from the center on the day of your translumbar interbody fusion, so you don't have to worry about driving or finding parking. New York and New Jersey both require a companion to accompany you on the day of surgery, and this service helps take care of that requirement too, which is often a relief for patients who don't have someone available to drive them.
Why should I choose HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care for TLIF surgery near me?
Finding the right neurosurgeon near you means finding a team with real experience in advanced fusion techniques. Dr. Shiau and Dr. Morrison bring that expertise to every TLIF procedure, backed by a thorough evaluation of your specific spinal anatomy.
Serving patients across New York and New Jersey, our team is ready to help you find lasting stability.