SpineCare of NY, affiliated with the prestigious Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), offers state-of-the-art treatment for complex spinal conditions, including posterior lumbar decompression and fusion with instrumentation (PLDFI) using either posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) techniques. Our renowned physicians’ cutting-edge research and world-class expertise back up the personalized care each of our patients receives. With a focus on minimally invasive approaches and optimal patient outcomes, our team of specialists employs the latest advancements in spinal surgery to help restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.
What Is Posterior Lumbar Decompression and Fusion with Instrumentation?
PLDFI is a surgical procedure designed to reduce pressure, alleviate pain, and stabilize the bones in the lumbar region of the spine, commonly referred to as the lower back. This procedure relies on using a decompression technique combined with a chosen fusion technique (typically screws, rods, and graft material) to address symptoms of spinal conditions in the lower back, providing long-term relief and preventing further spine degradation.
What is a Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) or Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)?
A TLIF and PLIF both consist of inserting a cage or implant in-between the vertebral bodies. This can help improve disc height from disc degeneration and can help restore spinal alignment in cases like spondylolisthesis (slippage of one vertebral body over another). A Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) enters the spine directly from the back (posterior midline). A Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) enters the spine from a more angled/side (transforaminal) approach.
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Who is a candidate for PLDFI?
A candidate for posterior lumbar decompression and fusion with instrumentation is typically a patient suffering from chronic, debilitating lower back pain and/or leg pain caused by conditions such as lumbar spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, or spinal instability. This surgical procedure is generally considered when non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, and injections have failed to provide adequate relief. Ideal candidates are those experiencing persistent pain, neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness in the legs, and a reduced quality of life due to their spinal condition.
Great experience. Doctor Hughes is an extraordinary doctor. After my surgery, I am a new person. All staff are excellent and caring. Nurses are the best, they treated me like a queen. I am truly grateful!
Doris O.
Dr. Hughes and his entire staff were professional, caring and courteous. Dr. Hughes gave me great advice on how to move forward after my spine surgery. I would recommend Dr. Hughes highly. I appreciate his care and concern.
Lisa C.
The quality of care I received by Dr. Frank Camissa and his team at Spine Care of NY throughout my laminectomy/spine fusion process was impeccable. My experience and results have confirmed I chose the best of the world’s spine surgeons!
Lynne M.
PLDFI (Posterior Lumbar Decompression and Fusion with Instrumentation)
Posterior lumbar decompression and fusion is performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the duration of the procedure. A SpineCare of NY surgeon will access the spine through a midline back incision. Next, they will remove the boney part of the spine called the lamina (laminectomy) and extract the damaged disc material. A fusion is then performed by placing specialized implants like rods and screws, which are inserted into the affected vertebrae to maintain stability and then bone graft material is placed around the hardware. The procedure aims to decompress nerves, stabilize the spine, and promote vertebral fusion, typically taking a few hours depending on the case complexity and number of vertebral levels treated. This surgery’s ultimate goal is to reduce pain and improve function for the patient.
PLDFI with Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) or Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)
This is when a PLDFI is performed in conjunction with a PLIF or TLIF. A SpineCare of NY surgeon will access the spine through a midline back incision. Next, they will remove the boney part of the spine called the lamina (laminectomy). A fusion is then performed by placing specialized implants like rods and screws, which are inserted into the affected vertebrae to maintain stability and then bone graft material is placed around the hardware. The surgeon then accesses the disc space through the foramen, the opening where nerves exit the spine, removing the damaged disc material. A bone graft and cage is inserted into the empty disc space to restore height and relieve nerve pressure. The procedure aims to decompress the nerves, stabilize the spine, and encourage vertebral fusion, typically taking a few hours depending on the complexity and number of levels treated.
PLDFI with PLIF or TLIF Recovery and Results
The results and recovery from posterior lumbar decompression and fusion with instrumentation (PLDFI) using either posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) techniques are generally favorable. Studies have shown good to excellent outcomes in 90-96% of cases, with significant improvements in back pain and return to normal activities for most patients. Recovery typically begins with a hospital stay of 1-3 days. Patients usually require pain medication for 2 weeks post-surgery and some can return to work and start driving within 2 weeks. It can take a year or more to see the full benefits of the surgery, but the acute post-operative recovery period ranges from 6 to 12 weeks, with more rigorous activities resuming after about 3 months. However, individual healing processes and the number of vertebrae fused can affect recovery time. While complications are uncommon, potential risks include nonunion, persistent pain, infection, and hardware-related issues.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about PLDFI with PLIF or TLIF and if this comprehensive procedure can help you experience relief, schedule a consultation with one of the expert physicians at SpineCare of NY. Head to our website to fill out an online contact form and get in touch with our team today.
SpineCare of NY is located at 523 East 72nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10021.
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