Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)
A bilateral midline approach allows comprehensive decompression and bilateral cage insertion into the disc space — providing wide access for severe central stenosis with disc disease.
What is Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)?
Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) is a comprehensive lumbar fusion technique performed through a midline posterior approach providing bilateral exposure of the affected level. After bilateral laminectomy and nerve decompression, both sides of the disc space are entered, disc material is removed, and two interbody cages filled with bone graft are inserted bilaterally. Bilateral pedicle screws and rods complete the construct. The wide bilateral exposure makes PLIF ideal for severe central canal stenosis with concurrent disc disease, where comprehensive bilateral decompression is essential. Dr. Hithesh performs PLIF in Hyderabad for patients requiring complete bilateral access to the spinal canal and disc space.
Indicated for severe central canal stenosis with disc disease, spondylolisthesis with bilateral nerve compression, recurrent disc herniation needing comprehensive decompression, or revision lumbar fusion surgery requiring full bilateral access.
How the Procedure Works
Anaesthesia & Positioning
General anaesthesia is delivered; the patient is positioned prone on a Wilson frame, allowing safe surgical access to the lumbar spine.
Bilateral Decompression
A midline incision exposes both sides; bilateral laminectomy decompresses the central canal and both nerve roots simultaneously and effectively.
Bilateral Discectomy
The disc space is entered from both sides; disc material is comprehensively removed, preparing both sides of the disc space for cages.
Bilateral Cage Insertion
Two interbody cages filled with bone graft are inserted side-by-side into the prepared disc space, beginning the biological fusion process.
Pedicle Screw Fixation & Closure
Bilateral pedicle screws and rods stabilise the segment; soft tissue layers are closed; structured progressive recovery follows postoperatively over months.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
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Comprehensive bilateral exposure for severe central canal stenosis effectively
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Bilateral cage placement provides excellent biomechanical support and stability
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Restores natural disc height and lumbar lordotic spinal curvature reliably
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Provides reliable lasting relief from back pain and radicular leg pain
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Modern interbody cages deliver durable consistent biological fusion outcomes successfully
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Outstanding long-term outcomes for severe complex lumbar pathology cases
PLIF earns its place when stenosis is severe and bilateral. The wide exposure feels old-school, but for the right pathology — where you genuinely need to see and decompress both sides — nothing else gives that completeness.
— — Dr. Bathini Hithesh, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Trauma & Joint Replacement Specialist, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) in Hyderabad depends on the severity of the spinal condition, extent of nerve compression, number of spinal levels involved, complexity of surgery, implant requirements, investigations required, and the care needed before and after the procedure.
For patients requiring bilateral decompression with spinal fusion, the approximate cost of PLIF ranges between ₹3,00,000 and ₹5,50,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) | ₹3,00,000 – ₹5,50,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, findings during evaluation, number of levels treated, type of implants used, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Severity of spinal condition: The extent of nerve compression, spinal instability, degenerative changes, and number of affected levels may influence treatment planning and surgical complexity.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required investigations, clinical examination, X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans when needed, and medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
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Implant and additional procedure requirements: The type and number of pedicle screws, rods, interbody cages, bone graft materials, and any additional decompression procedures may influence the cost.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is PLIF Covered by Insurance?
Posterior lumbar interbody fusion may be covered by health insurance when it is performed for a medically necessary spinal condition. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before the procedure.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Hitesh Bathini
Orthopaedic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Hitesh Bathini, Orthopaedic Surgeon in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and investigation reports to determine whether PLIF is suitable for you. He will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Bathini Hithesh and get a personalised treatment plan.