Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
A spinal fusion procedure that fuses the front and back section of the spine through a posterior approach
If you have nerve or disc problems in your spine, our consultants can treat you with minimally invasive fusion surgery
About TLIF
It's a minimally invasive procedure, where two or more of your vertebrae are fused together.
This can lead to shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times than other treatments for this injury.
Need to know
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What happens during surgery? icon plus
TLIF is carried out under general anaesthetic. Once you are asleep, your surgeon will likely follow these steps during the procedure:
- Make an incision in the middle of your back at the level of the spine needing treatment.
- Your surgeon will then insert a small tube in this area, resting it on your spine, and using X-rays to confirm the location.
- Using a microscope and special instruments, your surgeon carefully will pull back muscle and tissue through the tube from around the spine.
- Once the disc has been identified, it will then be removed to allow placement of ‘cages’ containing bone graft material.
- This will then fixed together with screws to stabilise and realign your spine.
- The incision on your back will be closed to finish the procedure. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain your procedure to you and answer any questions you might have.
Because you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery. You may also be asked to attend a nurse-led pre-assessment clinic.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
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Post surgery recovery icon plus
Compared with other procedures that treat the same injury, minimally invasive TLIF can dramatically reduce recovery time and the length of your stay in hospital.
The smaller incision your surgeon makes on your back also means you will experience less blood loss. You will likely stay in hospital overnight and be discharged the next day. It is possible to walk immediately in your recovery process, as your spine will be stronger than before.
Full recovery time depends on the individual. If you do feel any discomfort, you may take pain relief medication.
Our spinal consultants
Our locations in London
From complex spinal surgery to diagnostic tests, scans and procedures, we provide exceptional spinal care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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Chiswick Medical Centre
Bond House
347-353 Chiswick High Road
London W4 4HS
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Private TLIF spinal surgery in Birmingham
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The Harborne Hospital
Mindelsohn Way
Birmingham B15 2FQ
Private TLIF spinal surgery in Manchester
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
Request a spinal appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced spinal consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344