Minimally invasive lumbar fusion (MIS-TLIF)

Fast facts on minimally invasive lumbar fusion (MIS-TLIF):

• Fast facts on minimally invasive lumbar fusion (MIS-TLIF):
• Surgery is done through 2 small paraspinal incisions, instead of midline incision to protect the midline muscle insertions.
• Tubular retractors are utilised to perform decompression and introduce cages followed by screw placement.
• Allows quicker recovery and rehabilitation. Studies also suggest reduced rate of infection and better wound healing.

26 year old male with bilateral leg pain and significant back pain caused by discogenic central stenosis. MRI also confirmed significant facet joint effusion indicating incipient instability. Failed non-operative treatment. He underwent MIS-TLIF and experienced complete resolution of leg symptoms and partial improvement in back pain.