MIS - TLIF
Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (MIS-TLIF) is an advanced spine surgery technique performed by Dr Shafeek in Calicut to treat lumbar instability and nerve compression. Unlike traditional open fusion, MIS-TLIF uses small incisions, tubular retractors, and high-definition imaging, reducing muscle and soft tissue damage. Through a transforaminal approach, the surgeon removes the diseased disc and inserts a bone graft with an interbody cage to stabilize the spine. This procedure decompresses nerve roots while fusing the spinal segment, providing lasting pain relief, faster recovery, shorter hospital stays, and minimal post-operative discomfort, making it one of the best treatments for lumbar spine issues.
The MIS-TLIF procedure in Calicut is performed under general anesthesia through a small incision slightly off the midline. Using tubular retractors, paraspinal muscles are gently separated rather than cut, preserving natural anatomy and reducing tissue trauma. Guided by fluoroscopy or navigation, Dr Shafeek accesses the disc space via the transforaminal corridor, removes the damaged disc, and inserts an interbody cage filled with bone graft to restore disc height and relieve nerve compression. Titanium screws and rods are placed through the same incision for immediate spinal support as the bone graft fuses. This minimally invasive approach minimizes blood loss, scarring, and recovery time, while providing one of the best treatment options for lumbar spine surgery with reduced post-operative pain.
Patients undergoing MIS-TLIF in Calicut experience significant improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life within weeks. Most can walk on the same day or next, with hospital stays averaging 1–2 days versus 4–5 days for open fusion. Light activities and desk work can resume within 2–4 weeks, while full recovery including lifting and sports occurs over 3–6 months as fusion solidifies. Fusion success rates are 90–95%, making MIS-TLIF a reliable, patient-friendly, and one of the best treatments for lumbar spine surgery under Dr Shafeek.