Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (MIS TLIF)

A TLIF is a type of surgery involving the vertebrae and discs in the lower back, or lumbar spine.

Spinal fusion procedures, such as a TLIF, are a surgical technique that stabilizes the spine in a minimally invasive way. This technique is designed to create solid bone between the adjoining vertebrae, eliminating any movement between the bones. The goal of the surgery is to reduce pain and nerve irritation, increasing quality of life for the patient.

During a TLIF, Dr. Hyder uses minimally invasive surgical techniques (MIS) to insert a tube through a small incision in the lower back. The tube allows him to perform the procedure while sparing much of the muscle. The herniated disc is then removed, relieving pressure from the spinal cord or nerves, and an artificial spacer is inserted to replace the original disc. The two bones are then fixed together with rods and screws to help with stabilization during the healing process.

An MIS TLIF can sometimes be done as an outpatient procedure and minimizes blood loss, discomfort, and scarring while improving recovery times. Watch a video on how MIS TLIF works.