The back and spine are complex parts of the body, and pain relating to either can come from a variety of sources. Working with an experienced doctor to locate the source of the pain and identify the options for treating and resolving the root issue of the pain is an important step in getting your life back on track and pursuing your work and personal activities without ongoing discomfort. Some back pain stems from injuries with muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues, while other pain may be the result of issues with the vertebrae in the spine itself. In instances where the actual vertebrae are the issue, surgery may be the best option for recovery.
A spinal fusion is one of the most common types of spinal surgery. It is when two or more vertebrae are joined — or fused — together to alleviate pressure on the nerves and provide additional support and structure to the spine. A patient may consider many different spinal fusions with their doctor, depending on the specific type of pain and location of the problematic vertebrae, including a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) that focuses on the lower back.
What Is a Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion?
This procedure is a form of fusion where the damaged or ruptured disc between the affected vertebrae is removed. The vertebrae are then fused together to account for the loss of the cushion that the disc was originally providing. This is called an interbody fusion, where a small mesh-like structure is inserted between the vertebrae. After the surgery, the bones will slowly grow over this material and ultimately fuse into a solid, continuous piece.
There are a number of ways that doctors can perform a TLIF procedure, which is a preferred method due to how much less invasive it can be versus other options. The lumbar spine is accessed from the side, rather than the back, in a TLIF, in order to reduce the risk of disrupting or damaging nerves and to avoid an increased risk of blood loss. In addition, surgeons have a better view from the side than entering directly through the back of the spine.
Are You a Candidate For Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion?
If you suffer from severe, persistent lower back pain that is caused by issues with the spine, TLIF may be an option worth considering with the help of an experienced doctor. TLIF commonly treats conditions such as herniated discs, fractures, scoliosis, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis, but remember that there are other situations that may warrant this procedure, and some of the aforementioned issues may be resolved with other treatments. The best way to determine whether or not your specific situation warrants this procedure is by working through all of the options with a doctor.
Risks Associated With Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
As with any invasive surgery, there are risks associated with the procedure. Experienced surgeons are diligent in minimizing risks, but a patient may encounter complications such as infections, nerve damage, blood or spinal fluid loss, clotting, fractures, or allergic reactions. Following the recovery plan prescribed by your surgeon is an essential part of avoiding complications. 1-800-Injured is an attorney and medical referral service that can connect you with an experienced and certified professional in your area.