TLIF surgery Cost in India

The cost of TLIF surgery in India typically ranges from $7,000 to $13,500 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

TLIF (transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion) is a spinal fusion operation in the lower back. The damaged disc is removed, a spacer (cage) is placed between the vertebrae, and screws and rods hold the spine while the bones fuse. The cost depends on:

• Number of levels fused
• Implants: cage, screws and rods.
• Open or minimally invasive technique
• Bone graft materials

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) explains that lumbar interbody fusion removes the damaged disc and fuses the two neighbouring vertebrae. Fusion is considered when motion between the vertebrae is the source of pain.

TLIF is a variation of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) in which the surgeon approaches the disc space from slightly more to the side. This requires less movement of the nerve roots, which may lower the risk of nerve injury.

According to the AAOS:

• Cage: a metal, plastic or bone spacer that restores disc height and helps fusion.
• Bone graft: placed inside and around the cage.
• Screws and rods: may be added to stabilise the spine and hold the cage in place.

Most patients go home the same day or the next day after a single-level fusion. Multi-level fusions usually need an overnight stay.

Pain medicine is usually needed for days to weeks, and a brace may be provided. The AAOS advises reporting any leg weakness that causes the legs to buckle.

Risks include nerve damage causing leg weakness, cage movement pressing on nerves, and bleeding into the muscle (haematoma) that can compress nerves. As with any fusion, smoking increases the risk that the bones do not fuse.