TLIF Surgery (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion)

Medically reviewed by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — dual board-certified spine surgeon & neurosurgeon. Last reviewed October 2026.

A TLIF — transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion — stabilizes a painful or unstable lower-back segment by placing an interbody cage in the disc space and securing it with pedicle screws, all through a muscle-sparing approach from one side. It restores disc height, decompresses the nerves, and fuses the level in a single operation.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

How a TLIF Works

Procedure Overview

In a TLIF, the surgeon approaches the spine from one side of the back, removes the damaged disc, and places an interbody cage (filled with bone graft) in the disc space to restore height and decompress the nerves. Pedicle screws and a rod then stabilize the segment while it fuses. Done with minimally invasive, muscle-sparing techniques, it combines decompression and fusion in a single, efficient operation for the lower back.

Conditions We Treat

Am I a Candidate?

A TLIF is considered for an unstable or painful lumbar segment — such as spondylolisthesis or painful degeneration with instability — that hasn't responded to conservative care, injections, and (where appropriate) decompression alone. Imaging confirms the level and the instability. It's chosen when both decompression and stabilization are needed.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

Benefits & Risks

Expected Outcomes

TLIF reliably stabilizes an unstable lumbar segment and relieves the associated back and leg pain, with high fusion rates. The minimally invasive approach generally means a smoother recovery than open fusion. We set clear, individualized expectations based on your specific findings.

Life Beyond the Pain

How It's Performed

Under general anesthesia, through small, muscle-sparing incisions, the damaged disc is removed and an interbody cage is placed to restore disc height and relieve the nerves. Pedicle screws and a rod are inserted to stabilize the segment. Minimally invasive instruments and imaging guide the work, sparing the back muscles and reducing blood loss.

Recovery & Return to Activity

Minimally invasive, muscle-sparing techniques typically mean a smaller incision, less blood loss, less pain, and a faster recovery than equivalent open surgery. Not every case is a candidate for MIS — we'll tell you honestly when an open approach is safer.

Insurance, Out-of-Network & Cost

Cost and coverage shouldn't stand between you and relief. Desert Spine and Pain welcomes out-of-network patients and will walk you through what your evaluation and treatment are likely to involve before anything is scheduled — so there are no surprises. We'll help you understand your benefits and options, whether you're using insurance, paying out-of-pocket, or being treated under a personal-injury claim.

Proudly Serving the Greater Phoenix, Arizona Area

Why Choose Our Spine Specialists in Phoenix

Choosing the right spine specialist in Phoenix matters. At Desert Spine and Pain, your care is led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — a physician who is both a board-certified spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. That dual expertise is rare, and it means one expert can guide you across the full spectrum of care — from a simple injection to complex surgery — and recommend what is genuinely best for you, whether you need a spine doctor for conservative care or a surgeon when surgery is truly the answer.

TLIF: Frequently Asked Questions