Boise TLIF Surgeon (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
UNPARALLELED SERVICE – EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS
Why Choose Dr. Kelly Bridges for TLIF?
For patients in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, and those traveling for specialized spinal care, Dr. Kelly Bridges is a trusted leader in spine surgery. Her expertise, patient-focused care, and commitment to evidence-based techniques make her a premier choice for those seeking relief from chronic back pain.
What Sets Dr. Bridges Apart?
✅ Extensive Spine Surgery Expertise – Years of experience performing lumbar fusion procedures with excellent results.
✅ Customized Treatment Plans – Every surgery is tailored to the individual’s unique spinal condition.
✅ Precision-Focused Techniques – A surgical approach designed to optimize healing and minimize tissue disruption.
✅ Commitment to Patient Education – Clear, honest discussions about all available treatment options.
✅ Exceptional Post-Surgical Support – A dedicated team guiding patients through every step of recovery.
Dr. Bridges takes a conservative, ethical approach, ensuring surgery is only recommended when truly necessary.
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): Restoring Strength and Stability to Your Spine
Living with chronic lower back pain or nerve compression can make even the simplest daily activities feel overwhelming. When conservative treatments such as physical therapy and injections fail to provide lasting relief, Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) may be the next step toward recovery.
This advanced spinal fusion procedure is designed to stabilize the spine, relieve nerve pressure, and restore function. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, weakness, or mobility issues, TLIF might be the solution that helps you regain your active lifestyle.
If you reside in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, or anywhere in the Treasure Valley, or if you’re traveling to seek expert spine care, Dr. Kelly Bridges offers specialized surgical solutions tailored to your needs.
What is TLIF and Why is it Performed?
TLIF is a type of spinal fusion surgery that removes a damaged disc and stabilizes the spine using bone grafts and implants. Unlike traditional fusion techniques, TLIF accesses the spine from the side, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues.
This procedure is commonly performed to treat:
- Herniated or Degenerative Discs – Discs that have become damaged, leading to instability and nerve compression.
- Spinal Stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower body.
- Spondylolisthesis – A condition where one vertebra shifts out of alignment, leading to instability and nerve irritation.
- Recurrent Disc Problems – Patients who have had prior disc surgery and now require fusion for long-term stability.
By addressing both nerve compression and instability, TLIF offers a comprehensive solution for patients suffering from chronic spinal conditions.
Common Questions About TLIF
How TLIF Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
TLIF is performed using a posterior approach, meaning the surgeon accesses the spine through the lower back. Here’s how the procedure works:
1. Removing the Damaged Disc & Relieving Nerve Pressure
- A small incision is made in the lower back.
- The damaged disc is carefully removed, relieving compression on spinal nerves.
- Bone spurs or any other structures irritating the nerves are also cleared away.
2. Placing the Bone Graft & Spacer
- A bone graft or synthetic spacer is placed where the disc was removed.
- This spacer restores proper height between the vertebrae, preventing further nerve irritation.
3. Stabilizing the Spine with Screws & Rods
- Specialized implants such as screws and rods are used to stabilize the vertebrae.
- Over time, the bone graft stimulates fusion, creating a single solid structure.
This reinforced fusion eliminates painful movement between vertebrae, ensuring long-term spinal strength.
What Makes TLIF Different?
Compared to traditional lumbar fusion techniques, TLIF offers several advantages:
✔ Less Tissue Disruption – The transforaminal approach avoids excess muscle trauma, leading to a smoother recovery.
✔ Direct Nerve Decompression – The surgical approach allows for better visualization of nerve structures, ensuring effective relief.
✔ Restores Spine Alignment – The fusion process prevents further slippage or degeneration of the spine.
✔ Stronger and More Reliable Fusion – The placement of bone grafts enhances stability and long-term success.
TLIF is a proven solution for long-term pain relief, helping patients return to their normal activities with confidence.
Who Should Consider TLIF Surgery?
While many back conditions can be managed with non-surgical treatments, TLIF may be recommended if:
- Conservative therapies (physical therapy, medications, injections) have not provided lasting relief.
- You experience radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs due to nerve compression.
- You have a structural issue in the spine, such as instability or vertebral misalignment.
- You are unable to perform daily activities due to chronic pain and mobility limitations.
If you’re unsure whether TLIF is the right solution for your back pain, Dr. Bridges will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best course of action.
Recovery After TLIF: What to Expect
Recovering from TLIF requires patience and a structured plan. While healing times vary, here’s what most patients can expect:
- Hospital Stay: Most patients remain in the hospital for 2-3 days for monitoring and pain management.
- Early Recovery (First Few Weeks): Walking is encouraged early on, but heavy lifting and twisting should be avoided.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Many patients resume light activities within a few days to a couple of weeks after surgery.
- Long-Term Healing: While the fusion process takes several months, many patients experience significant symptom relief early in recovery.
Dr. Bridges and her team provide personalized recovery guidelines, ensuring each patient has a smooth and effective healing process.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief
If chronic back pain, nerve compression, or spinal instability is limiting your life, Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) may provide the long-term relief you need.
📞 Call (208) 327-5600 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation today. Whether you’re in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, or traveling to see a specialist, Dr. Kelly Bridges is here to help you regain control of your health and mobility.