What the procedure is
TLIF is a spinal fusion procedure that removes a degenerated disc through a posterior, transforaminal approach and replaces it with a bone-graft-filled cage, stabilised with pedicle screws, to fuse the affected segment.
Why it is performed
It addresses pain and instability arising from a degenerated or unstable disc segment by eliminating motion at that level.
Who may benefit
- Patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis or significant instability causing pain
- Selected patients with disabling degenerative disc disease unresponsive to conservative care
- Revision cases after failed decompression alone
When it may not be appropriate
- Patients whose symptoms are not clearly linked to the level proposed for fusion
- Cases where decompression alone would be sufficient
Alternatives
- MIS-TLIF (a less invasive version of the same fusion)
- Decompression alone in cases without instability
- Continued conservative management
How it is performed
Through a posterior approach, the disc is removed via the neural foramen, an interbody cage packed with bone graft is placed, and pedicle screws and rods are used to stabilise the segment while fusion occurs over subsequent months.
Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia · Typical duration: Approximately 2–3 hours per level · Typical hospital stay: 3–5 nights
Considering this for your case?
Send your MRI or CT for a specialist opinion before deciding on treatment.
Recovery
Most patients are walking within a day or two; a brace may be used for the initial weeks, with a graded return to activity over 3–4 months as fusion progresses.
Physiotherapy
A structured, staged rehabilitation programme supports safe mobilisation, core activation and eventual return to normal activity.
Risks and complications
- Non-union of the fusion
- Screw or cage-related complications
- Nerve injury
- Adjacent segment degeneration over time
- Infection
Expected follow-up
Regular clinical and X-ray review over the following year to confirm fusion progress.
Indicative cost
Indicative cost: ₹3.5 – 6.5 lakh. This is not a quotation — see the full cost page for what's included and excluded.
What affects the cost
- Number of levels fused
- Implant selection
- Hospital tier and ICU requirements
Questions to ask
- Am I a suitable candidate for this specific procedure, or would an alternative be better for my case?
- What is your experience with this procedure?
- What does the quoted cost include and exclude?
Frequently asked questions
No procedure is presented as the only option. Alternatives are discussed above, and a specialist opinion will explain what is appropriate for your specific case.
3–5 nights
Number of levels fused; Implant selection; Hospital tier and ICU requirements.