Minimally Invasive Axial-TLIF Specialist

Why should I consider minimally invasive Axial-TLIF surgery?

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can treat a variety of conditions that affect your spine. TLIF surgery can address issues like:

• Disc collapse
• Spinal instability
• Spinal nerve compression

Traditionally, these issues were treated using open surgical techniques, but TLIF is a minimally invasive procedure that offers many benefits for both the short term and long term.

The team at Florida Back Institute can determine if TLIF surgery is right for you after a physical examination and imaging tests. They may try other treatment options, such as physical therapy or over-the-counter medications, to relieve your pain before recommending surgery.

What is involved in Axial-TLIF surgery?

The doctors use specialized microsurgical tools to repair the affected vertebrae, accessing the treatment area through a small incision on the side of your spine. Through the incision, your surgeon inserts a dilator tool to gently separate the muscle rather than cutting it.

Using the small instruments, your surgeon removes the portion of damaged vertebrae and replaces it with either synthetic parts or a bone graft that will support and stabilize your spine. The procedure also releases pressure on your nerves that results from damaged vertebrae.

A metal plate and screws are used to keep the graft in place until it eventually fuses to your natural bone to ensure long-term results.

In many cases, you can go home following a brief period of recovery from anesthesia. You receive comprehensive aftercare instructions on caring for your incision, and you may need to limit your activities for a month or more to allow your spine to heal.

How long does it take to recover from Axial-TLIF surgery?

Because there’s no trauma to the muscles of your back and you only need a small surgical incision, you can expect to heal much faster after a minimally invasive surgery than with open surgery.

You should experience a noticeable reduction in your pain soon after surgery. You may be prescribed physical therapy to further improve flexibility and strength in the muscles that support your spine.

Find out if Axial-TLIF surgery is right for you by scheduling a consultation with the experts at Florida Back Institute. Click the button to get started online or call the office today.