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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
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Surgical Approach and Complications of Stand-alone Lateral Trans-Psoas Interbody Fusion
Published on: February 14, 2025
Contralateral radiculopathy after transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion
Travis Hunt1, Francis H Shen, Christopher I Shaffrey
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, PO Box 800159, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0159, USA.
Summary
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) can cause opposite side radiculopathy. This may occur when pre-existing stenosis on the other side is worsened by the increased spinal lordosis after TLIF surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Fusion Techniques
Background:
- Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a common surgical procedure for degenerative spondylolisthesis and disc disease.
- While effective, potential complications require thorough investigation and understanding.
Observation:
- A rare complication of opposite side radiculopathy following TLIF has been observed.
- This condition was noted within the institution but not previously documented in medical literature.
Findings:
- The study presents a case of contralateral radiculopathy after TLIF.
- This complication is hypothesized to result from previously asymptomatic contralateral stenosis.
- Increased spinal lordosis post-TLIF may unmask or exacerbate this stenosis.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a need to consider contralateral foraminal stenosis preoperatively.
- Recommendations include optimizing graft selection for disc and foraminal height.
- Consideration for contralateral foramen decompression may be warranted in select cases.
