Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
A unilateral approach decompresses the nerve and inserts a bone-graft cage into the disc space — fusing two vertebrae with less anatomical disruption than bilateral approaches.
What is Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)?
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) is a sophisticated lumbar fusion technique performed through a unilateral posterior approach. After targeted nerve root decompression, the affected disc space is entered through the foramen on one side, the disc is removed, and an interbody cage filled with bone graft is inserted. Bilateral pedicle screws and rods complete the construct. Because the approach is unilateral, more posterior anatomy is preserved compared to PLIF, reducing operative trauma and bleeding. TLIF is ideal for spondylolisthesis, recurrent disc herniation and degenerative disc disease causing combined back and leg pain. Dr. Hithesh performs TLIF in Hyderabad with focus on accurate cage placement and reliable biological fusion.
Indicated for patients with spondylolisthesis, recurrent disc herniation, foraminal stenosis or degenerative disc disease causing combined back and leg pain that has failed structured conservative management.
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.
Unilateral Approach
A targeted unilateral incision exposes the affected lumbar level; muscle dissection is limited to one side, preserving more native anatomy.
Decompression & Discectomy
The nerve root is decompressed and the foramen entered; disc material is precisely removed, preparing the disc space for cage placement.
Cage & Bone Graft
An interbody cage filled with bone graft is inserted into the prepared disc space, restoring disc height and beginning 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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Unilateral approach preserves significantly more posterior anatomy than PLIF
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Excellent for spondylolisthesis, foraminal stenosis and recurrent disc herniation
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Restores natural disc height and lumbar lordotic spinal curvature
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Provides reliable lasting relief from both back pain and radicular pain
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Smaller blood loss and reduced operative trauma compared to bilateral approaches
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Modern interbody cages deliver durable consistent biological fusion outcomes successfully
TLIF is wonderfully elegant — through a single unilateral corridor we decompress the nerve, restore disc height and fuse the segment. Less surgical trauma, equivalent outcomes, faster recovery. It deserves its modern popularity.
— — Dr. Bathini Hithesh, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Trauma & Joint Replacement Specialist, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in Hyderabad depends on the severity of spinal stenosis, degree of spinal instability, number of spinal levels involved, complexity of surgery, implant requirements, investigations required, and the care needed before and after the procedure.
For patients with spinal stenosis associated with instability requiring a single surgical approach, the approximate cost of TLIF ranges between ₹3,00,000 and ₹5,50,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) | ₹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 TLIF Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Severity of spinal stenosis and instability: The extent of nerve compression, degree of spinal instability, affected spinal levels, and associated degenerative changes 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 cage, 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 TLIF Covered by Insurance?
TLIF 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 TLIF 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.