Complete Nucleus Removal for Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) Transforaminal interbody fusion, or TLIF, utilizes a uniportal approach to the lumbar disc that involves removing one facet joint and accessing the disc through the intervertebral foramen

Transforaminal interbody fusion, or TLIF, utilizes a uniportal approach to the lumbar disc that involves removing one facet joint and accessing the disc through the intervertebral foramen (Figure 1). This approach to fusion was first discussed in the journal Spine in 2001, and has garnered increased acceptance as a less invasive approach to spinal fusion in the last few years, growing to an estimated 54,000 procedures globally in 2006 and 95,000 procedures by 2012. This approach to the disc avoids the potential for scar tissue and adhesion formation issues found with the descending aorta and other blood vessels in the anterior approach, and with the nerve roots in the classic posterior approach.