PLIF
The PLIF procedure takes a posterior (from the
back) approach to the lumbar spine through an incision in the patient’s back.
The surgeon must detach and move muscles attached to the vertebral, and in some
cases a portion of vertebral bone called the lamina, may be removed for better
visualization and access to the disc space.
-Surgical times ranges from 3 to 8 hours
-Hospital stay ranges from 3 to 5 days
-Typically a 6-inch incision
-Dissection of muscle and soft-tissue of the spine
can cause post-operative pain and slow healing process
-Risks reported in literature of vascular injury,
nerve injury, incontinence, impotence, muscle and tissue scarring
TLIF
Like the PLIF procedure, TLIF begins with a
posterior (from the back) incision, however the surgical angle approaches the
vertebra more laterally, or diagonally toward the patient’s side. The altered
approach to the spine, compared to PLIF, limits some of the operative trauma to
supporting muscle and soft tissue.
To access the disc space, the surgeon may remove a
portion of the lamina (a bone covering the spinal nerves) and all of the facet
joint, which is a major stabilizer of the spine. The access route, though less
invasive than the PLIF procedure, still involves disruption of muscle, soft
tissue and nerves and it may pose a risk of post-operative pain and
complications.
-Surgical times range 2 to 4 hours
-Hospital stay ranges from 3 to 5 days
-Typically a 4-inch incision
-Risks reported in literature of vascular injury,
nerve injury, incontinence, impotence, muscle and tissue scarring
It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your health, please consult your orthopedic doctors for diagnosis and treatment.
