Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) in Edison, NJ

A Brief Summary of the Following Article

• Back Pain Treatment: For severe disc issues causing back pain, a minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in Edison, NJ, can remove damaged discs and stabilize the spine.
• TLIF Surgery: TLIF surgery, less invasive than traditional surgery, involves removing damaged disc material, inserting an interbody cage, and using bone grafts to stabilize and alleviate pain in the spine.
• Surgical Benefits and Techniques: Minimally invasive TLIF offers reduced tissue damage, minimal scarring, and faster recovery. It differs from PLIF in the surgical approach, with TLIF accessing the spine from the side.
• Recovery and Consultation at NJ Spine & Orthopedic: Recovery from TLIF involves gradual return to activities over 6-12 weeks with physical therapy. NJ Spine & Orthopedic provides comprehensive care, evaluating if TLIF is the best treatment option for each patient.

If you suffer from back pain, your doctor might recommend that you consult with a spinal surgeon to discuss your treatment options. For many serious disc issues, a common procedure for treating this is called a minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in Edison, NJ. 

A TLIF removes the damaged disc and stabilizes your spine, giving you some relief from severe pain. For this, you need the help of a qualified surgical team like the one at NJ Spine & Orthopedic. Read on to discover more about a minimally invasive TLIF and how it can help with lower back pain.

What is Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)?

TLIF surgery involves stabilizing the spine by using a minimally invasive approach, which typically results in less postoperative pain and a faster recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. During the procedure, a small incision is made, and the damaged disc material is removed before an interbody cage is inserted to restore disc height and promote spinal fusion using bone graft or bone graft substitutes.

TLIF surgery can effectively treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and recurrent disc herniation that cause instability and pressure on the spinal nerves. By stabilizing the affected segments of the spine, TLIF aims to alleviate pain and restore function.

What Are the Benefits of Minimally Invasive TLIF?

Minimally invasive TLIF surgery offers several benefits, such as reduced tissue damage, minimal blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times compared to open surgeries. TLIF uses an interbody cage to restore disc height and an in-situ fusion using the patient’s natural anatomy.

Additionally, minimally invasive TLIF surgery typically involves smaller incisions, leading to less scarring and reduced risk of infection. The smaller incisions also result in less postoperative pain and faster healing. Patients undergoing minimally invasive TLIF surgery also tend to require less postoperative medication and experience a quicker return to normal activities.

What Is the Difference Between TLIF and PLIF?

The main difference between TLIF and PLIF lies in the approach to the spine. TLIF surgery involves accessing the spine from the side, while PLIF is performed from the back. Each technique has its own set of advantages and may be recommended based on the specific needs of the patient. 

Both techniques have been proven effective in treating various spinal conditions, and the decision will be made based on the individual patient’s needs and the surgeon’s expertise.

What to Expect From a TLIF Procedure in Edison, New Jersey

Prior to the surgery, our team will provide detailed information about the procedure, including preoperative and postoperative instructions. Patients can expect to undergo general anesthesia and may stay in the hospital for a few days to ensure proper recovery and pain management. 

Before the surgery, patients will need to prepare by following specific instructions, such as fasting for a certain period of time and refraining from taking certain medications. After the surgery, patients will be given guidance on how to care for the incision site, manage any discomfort, and gradually resume their normal activities.

Recovery Time for TLIF Surgery

Recovery time after TLIF surgery generally involves a period of restricted activity followed by a gradual return to normal daily routines over six to 12 weeks. Immediately after surgery, most patients will be able to stand and walk with assistance. Some patients may need to spend a few days in the hospital for close monitoring and rehabilitation. Once discharged, patients may need to use a back brace to support the spine and help with mobility.

During the first few weeks of recovery, patients should avoid heavy lifting, bending, or twisting, and limit activities that put strain on the spine. Our team will provide guidance on proper body mechanics and assistive devices to help with movement and prevent injury.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises will be an important part of the recovery process. These exercises will help strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility, and restore function to the spine.

Know If TLIF is Right For You by Contacting NJ Spine & Orthopedic

Find out if TLIF in Edison is right for you by consulting with a spinal surgeon. At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we are focused on comprehensive care. We look for the best solution for your specific situation, even if it is not a surgical one. When we make a recommendation for treatment, you can rest assured that we are recommending the best option for you, not just trying to get new patients.

Call us at (866) 553-0612 or use this contact form to schedule a consultation. Once we’ve investigated your condition, we can help you plan the next steps for treatment.