HospiNews

Wockhardt Performs Surgery for Spinal Instability

Wockhardt Hospital,s Mumbai successfully performed the most advanced minimally invasive spine surgery called Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) surgery which is used for treating unstable spine.

TLIF is a very recent, most advanced and highly skilled form of spine surgery for fusion of two or more vertebrae of the lumbar (lower back) spine. The minimally invasive technique is best recommended for appropriately screened patients suffering from degenerative spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, lumbar canal stenosis, black disc, nerve compression with associated low back pain.

Until recently, all patients slated for fusion surgeries of the lumbar spine have had to undergo a strenuous surgical procedure known as Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) involving large midline incisions for cutting of muscles, ligaments and bone in the lower back. While PLIF surgeries are known to offer good results, the surgery involves large incisions that could cause damage to important muscles, intraoperative bleeding followed by prolonged bed rest. Additionally, there is increased chance of nerve injury due to handling of nerve tissues during surgery.

Pioneering TLIF surgeries at Wockhardt Hospitals Dr Vikas Gupte, Consultant Spine Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, said, "TLIF is far more beneficial than conventional PILF surgeries as it is a minimally invasive surgery done through a 3-cm incision. The surgery has hardly any bleeding and there is no need for blood transfusion. Further advantages include preserving the normal structures of the body.” The patient can be mobilised faster and can stand and walk the day after the surgery.

"Various factors are taken into consideration before recommending a TLIF, including the condition to be treated, age and health of the patient, lifestyle and anticipated level of activity following surgery," explained Dr Gupte.

EH News Bureau