Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) in Central GA

What is Lumbar Interbody Fusion?

Lumbar interbody fusion is a surgical procedure used to treat painful problems in the lower spine. During the procedure, a surgeon removes the damaged disc that causes nerve compression and places bone graft material, and sometimes a spacer (cage), between two vertebrae so they can heal together and fuse. The permanent fusion of these two small bones can help address chronic back pain that has not responded to other treatment methods by stabilizing the spine. At OrthoGeorgia, our Central GA spine specialists provide comprehensive spine care via lumbar interbody fusion, which is performed using a posterior lumbar approach. The goal of PLIF and TLIF is to reduce pain, improve spinal stability, and help patients get back to doing what they love with more confidence and less pain.

Is Lumbar Interbody Fusion Right for Me?

Lumbar interbody fusion is often recommended for patients with conditions such as spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, spinal instability, recurrent disc problems, or nerve compression that has not improved with conservative care. Your orthopedic care team may consider surgery when your nerve pain continues despite physical therapy, medications, injections, or other non-surgical treatments. The right candidate is usually someone whose symptoms can be traced to a specific part of the lower back with nerve compression and would benefit from added stability. Your surgeon will also consider your imaging results, overall health, and the effect your condition has on your daily life.

What are the Benefits of PLIF and TLIF?

PLIF and TLIF can help relieve pain caused by disc damage, instability, or pressure on the nerves in the lower back. By removing the compression of the nerves and creating a stable fusion between vertebrae, these procedures may reduce painful motion, improve alignment, and ease symptoms that have made everyday activities difficult. For many patients, this means standing, walking, and moving with less discomfort. At OrthoGeorgia, lumbar interbody fusion procedures are performed with minimally invasive techniques, Robotic assistance, careful planning, and a patient-focused approach. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s diagnosis, activity level, and recovery goals, with our team available to answer questions and address concerns every step of the way.

Before Your Procedure

Before surgery, your care team will review your medical history, medications, and imaging results to make sure lumbar interbody fusion is the right next step. We will also review with you how to prepare for your procedure. This will involve adjusting medications, avoiding eating and drinking before your appointment, and arranging for someone to help you at home after the procedure. This is a good time to limit beverages containing alcohol and stop taking NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and anticoagulants (blood thinners). This is also a good time to ask questions and review your recovery plan, so you feel as confident as possible with the next steps of your care. We will also encourage you to stop smoking or using tobacco if you use tobacco in any form. You may not be offered surgery if you use products that contain nicotine, including nicotine patches, gum with nicotine, or electric cigarettes (vapes). Studies show nicotine use makes it hard for your new bone grafts to grow and your surgical wound to heal. It also increases your risk of infection.

What Happens During Posterior and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion?

During PLIF and TLIF, the surgeon makes an incision (cut) in your lower back. They will then separate your back muscles so they can access your spine using a surgical tool to hold them in place. Next, your surgeon will remove a section of bone known as the lamina and pull back the membrane that surrounds your spinal cord (dura) so they can remove the damaged disc.  Graft material and a spacer (device) are placed between the vertebrae. These spacers (devices) are made of metal, plastic, or bone. Screws and rods are also used to help stabilize the spine while the bones heal. The exact technique depends on your diagnosis and the surgeon’s recommended approach. Removal of the damaged discs relieves pressure on the surrounding nerves and reduces painful symptoms. 

After Your Lumbar Interbody Fusion

After lumbar interbody fusion surgery, you will be monitored by our care team. They will watch your heart rate and blood pressure while making sure you are comfortable. The next day, you may begin sitting, standing, and taking short walks (with help). Patients usually return home within 1 to 3 days. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions about lifting, bending, wound care, and your return to your normal routine. Your recovery plan may also include physical therapy to support strength and endurance. Closely following your surgeon’s instructions is key to a successful recovery. It may take some time, but the goal is to help you heal safely while protecting the spinal stability created by the fusion.