Functional Outcomes of Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Single-Level Spondylolisthesis

Introduction: Lumbar spondylolisthesis is a common cause for lower back ache leading to significant functional impairment. When the conservative management fails for the patients, surgical procedure is indicated. Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) is one of the well-established options. We aim to access the functional outcome of TLIF in single level spondylolisthesis. Materials and methods: This prospective follow-up study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics at Meenakshi Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Kanchipuram, over a period of 9 months. A total of 20 patients with single level spondylolisthesis who underwent TLIF. Patient assessment and data collection was done at baseline and at regular post-operative intervals to access surgical parameters, fusion rates, pain relief and complications. Results: A total of 20 patients were included with a mean age of 46.3 years. Most commonly involved level was L4-L5. TLIF provided significant post-operative functional improvement with VAS score at 6 months. Radiological fusion achieved in 95% of patients. At final follow up ODI improved from 56.5 pre op to 15.7 postop and VAS improved from pre op 8.1 to 1.7 post-op. Complications included superficial surgical site infection (SSI) in 1 case. No cases were seen deep SSI, dural tear or persistent radicular pain. Conclusion: TLIF is a reliable and effective surgical technique in cases of single level symptomatic spondylolisthesis providing excellent symptomatic relief and functional outcomes with minimal complications.