Has anyone had a Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) that could share with me experience and the outcome. I am on the waiting list

[dobefriend]

I have had pain in my buttock and down the front of my leg that is almost unberable and tried everthing . Really worried about this op. Thanks.

[Bananas5]

I have heard of this procedure but not had it.

I hope your pain consultant and surgeon have explained exactly what it entails, risks, success rates, recovery etc.

If not you must ask at pre op assessment

x

[dobefriend in reply to Bananas5]

Thank you for your reply he has explained what it entails but I would like to know how painful it was and how they managed in the following weeks and momths with every day life.

[Bananas5 in reply to dobefriend]

Your Recovery. After surgery, you can expect your back to feel stiff and sore. You may have trouble sitting or standing in one position for very long and may need pain medicine in the weeks after your surgery. It may take 4 to 6 weeks to get back to doing simple activities, such as light housework.

x

[dobefriend in reply to Bananas5]

Thanks for your reply. I have to really think about this as I have heared some negative stories about the outcomes,.

[Bananas5 in reply to dobefriend]

There are negative stories about absolutely everything. Ask 10 people you will get 10 different answers. You could keep asking til you get a positive answer and ignore the rest.

Your surgeon should have explained the risks then you make a decision based on this information.

In my husband's case over 10 years ago his consultant said no so he didn't have it. But that was his decision.

Success Rates for TLIF Back Surgery. Studies indicate that the patient's pain is improved 60% to 70% after TLIF spinal fusion surgery and approximately 80% of patients undergoing TLIF spinal fusion surgery are satisfied with the surgical result.

x

[dobefriend in reply to Bananas5]

Yes I have read all that but all I am thinkng is it would be nice to speak to people who have actualy had it done and see how they got on.

[morphalot in reply to dobefriend]

Hi I've had a spinal fusion. Before I had it, I had to talk to a consultant that had not been involved with my care to make sure I understood the risks. I was in so much pain I would have risked anything. The outcome was I had the operation and recovered pretty well. It didn't remove my pain but it helped. I can still bend to an extent but not as much as I did previously. At the same time I was advised by my pain consultant to have a spinal stimulator put in my back. Because I had the fusion I had to wait a year for the implant. I waited, then went for an assessment. They put in the implant nearly 3 years ago which reduces the pain to an extent. If I was given the choice again I would have the implant as it is less invasive than the fusion, and if you can avoid surgery on your spine you should do so! If you have any questions at all I'm happy to answer them. You can pm me if you wish. Take care, and good luck.

[dobefriend in reply to morphalot]

Thanks for your reply. I did ask about a spinal stimulator and was told that they only do that after a fusion if that has not worked. He told me it was a similar big op and it was better to have the Fusion. I have an appointment next week in the spinal unit and I will find out more about this. As you say I really do not want them near my spine if I can. But like you I am in so much pain I will try anything. Thanks for your info. x

[morphalot in reply to dobefriend]

The stimulator implant is NOT such a big operation as a fusion, as it is carried out under sedation, not general anaesthetic. I was aware of everything that was happening

[dobefriend in reply to morphalot]

Thank you I am definatly going to see if I can have this. x

[Iluvgardening in reply to dobefriend]

I had a spinal fusion three years ago, it was the best decision I ever made, especially after suffering from severe back pain for over twelve years. I too, had heard and read the horrible stories of not so good outcomes. But, I researched and found the best surgeon asked a thousand questions and Prayed alot! And my pain is so much more manageable in my back and it is stronger. I still have pain in my left hip and buttocks area if I sit too long as if driving a long distance, but it's much more manageable. I am so glad I had the surgery. It was a fusion of L5S1. I wore a hard back brace for three months and went through physical therapy. They used my pelvic bone from my left hip for the fusion.

[dobefriend in reply to Iluvgardening]

Thank you for your reply. I have just had a pre op assessment but no date as yet for the op. my fusion is at L4 and 5. I am now on so many diffrent pain killers I can not go on like this. So I am hoping all will go ok with this. How long did it take you to get back to near normal after your op. please.

[Iluvgardening in reply to dobefriend]

I felt stronger after the three month mark. Although my surgeon told me it take two full years before you are at complete recovery and healing. I am hoping and praying it gives you the pain relief you are needing. It helped me tremendously, although I still have pain in other areas of my body, my back is much better and stronger.😊

[Alfiedoggy]

My cc g will not fund this operation so I think you have done well to be offered it. I had acdf surgery at C6/7 level last year. I havnt looked back. I chose my surgeon carefully, asked about risks and had a thorough pre ok check.

[Rinoguy2]

Yes I had one 3 years ago. But my s1 nerve is still causing me tremendous pain. I still work 2 jobs. I'm in my upper 50s now. Too early to retire. The fusion worked fine but Mike I said my s1 nerve still makes life difficult. Good luck