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This page lists 8 transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (tlif) doctors in India. Review each doctor's experience, specialty and hospital, then contact our care team for help with the next step.
About Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) doctors in India
This directory is based on doctors currently listed in GAF Healthcare's registry. Clinical suitability varies by patient; a doctor should review your history and investigations before any treatment decision.
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) doctors
FeaturedDr. Arvind J Vatkar
MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), MCh (Spine, UK), Senior Spinal Fellow (RCS Approved), International Training Fellow (MCh Spine), ATLS
Consultant — Orthopaedic and Spine Surgery · Specialty: Spine Surgeon
Medicover Hospital Mumbai, India22+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 22+ years of experience in Spine Surgeon
- Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon, Medicover Hospital, Navi Mumbai — Present
- Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, MGM Medical College, Nerul — Present
Expertise & Procedures
- Spinal Fusion Surgery (Anterior, Posterior, Lateral)
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
- Microdiscectomy and Discectomy
- Spinal Deformity Correction (Scoliosis, Kyphosis)
- Navigated Spine Surgery with Intraoperative Monitoring
Spine Surgeon Experience: 22+ YearsHospital Affiliation: Medicover HospitalHospital accreditation: NABH, JCI
Dr. Datla GS Raju
MBBS, MS (Orthopedics)
Consultant Spine Surgeon · Specialty: Spine Surgeon
Yashoda Hospitals, Secunderabad Hyderabad, India11+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 11+ years of experience in Spine Surgeon
- Consultant Spine Surgeon, Yashoda Hospitals, Secunderabad, Hyderabad — Present
- Fellowship in Cervical Spine Surgery, Sapporo, Japan, under Dr. Kuniyoshi Abumi — August–October 2019
Expertise & Procedures
- Endoscopic Spine Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Lumbar Fusion
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
- Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy
- Thoracic Spine Decompression
Spine Surgeon Experience: 11+ YearsHospital Affiliation: Yashoda Hospitals, SecunderabadHospital accreditation: NABH
Dr. Devesh Dholakia
MBBS, MS, Wockhardt Fellowship in Spine, IGOF Fellowship, Fellow, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery – Spinal Division
Consultant — Spine Surgery · Specialty: Spine Surgeon
Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai, India24+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 24+ years of experience in Spine Surgeon
- Consultant, Spine Surgery – Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai (Parel), Present
- Former affiliation – K.E.M. Hospital, Mumbai
Expertise & Procedures
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)
- Microdiscectomy
- Cervical disc arthroplasty
- Lumbar spinal fusion
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
Spine Surgeon Experience: 24+ YearsHospital Affiliation: Gleneagles HospitalHospital accreditation: NABH, JCI
Dr. M D S Sasidharan
MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), FASSI (Spine Surgery)
Senior Consultant — Spine Surgery · Specialty: Spine Surgeon
Gleneagles HealthCity Chennai Chennai, India13+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 13+ years of experience in Spine Surgeon
- Senior Consultant — Spine Surgery, Gleneagles HealthCity Chennai, Chennai, India
- Spine Surgeon, Institute of Advanced Spine Sciences, Gleneagles HealthCity Chennai, Chennai, India
Expertise & Procedures
- Endoscopic keyhole spine surgery (ULED, UEBD)
- Robotic-guided transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
- Non-fusion scoliosis correction with vertebral body tethering
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
- Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF)
Spine Surgeon Experience: 13+ YearsHospital Affiliation: Gleneagles HealthCity ChennaiHospital accreditation: NABH, JCI
Dr. Phani Kiran S
MBBS, MS Orthopaedic Surgery, DNB Orthopaedic Surgery, FNB Spine Surgery
HOD & Senior Consultant — Spine Surgery · Specialty: Spine Surgeon
Gleneagles HealthCity Chennai Chennai, India20+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 20+ years of experience in Spine Surgeon
- Head of Department & Senior Consultant, Spine Surgery — Gleneagles HealthCity Chennai, Chennai, India (Present)
- Senior Spine Surgeon — Gleneagles HealthCity Chennai, Chennai, India
Expertise & Procedures
- Endoscopic spine decompression and discectomy
- Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
- Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF)
- Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF)
- Cervical disc arthroplasty
Spine Surgeon Experience: 20+ YearsHospital Affiliation: Gleneagles HealthCity ChennaiHospital accreditation: NABH, JCI
Dr. Rajesh Verma
MBBS, DNB (Ortho), MCh (Ortho), Fellowship in Cervical Spine Surgery, International Fellowship in Spine Surgery, Advanced Certificate in Spine Surgery, Endoscopic Spine Surgery Fellowship
Associate Director — Orthopedic Spine Surgery · Specialty: Spine Surgeon
BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital New Delhi, India11+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 11+ years of experience in Spine Surgeon
- Associate Director, Orthopedic Spine Surgery, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi — Present
- Spine Surgery Fellowship, Samsung Medical Centre, Seoul, South Korea
Expertise & Procedures
- Cervical Spine Fusion Surgery
- Lumbar Spine Fusion Surgery
- Endoscopic Discectomy
- Laminectomy and Decompression
- Disc Replacement Surgery
Spine Surgeon Experience: 11+ YearsHospital Affiliation: BLK-Max Super Speciality HospitalHospital accreditation: JCI, NABH
Dr. SK Rajan
MBBS, MS (Surgery), MCh (Neurosurgery), Fellow, Spine Surgery, Spine Surgery Fellowship, Fellowship in Spine Surgery
Chief of Neuro Spine Surgery & AKS Division — Additional Director of Neurosurgery · Specialty: Spine Surgeon
Artemis Hospital Gurugram, India17+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 17+ years of experience in Spine Surgeon
- Chief of Neuro Spine Surgery & AKS Division, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram — Present
- Additional Director of Neurosurgery, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram — Present
Expertise & Procedures
- Endoscopic spine surgery and decompression
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
- Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF)
- Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
- Laminectomy and decompression
Spine Surgeon Experience: 17+ YearsHospital Affiliation: Artemis HospitalHospital accreditation: JCI, NABH
Dr. Manoj Jain
MBBS, MS, National Fellowship in Spine, Adult Reconstructive Fellowship, Spine Fellowship
Senior Consultant — Orthopedics · Specialty: Orthopedic and Spine Surgeon
Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai, India18+ Years experience
Why consider this doctor?
- 18+ years of experience in Orthopedic and Spine Surgeon
- Senior Consultant — Orthopedic & Spine Surgery, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai — Present
- Spine Surgeon (Emergency Spine Care Team), Australia — Fellowship placement
Expertise & Procedures
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
- Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF)
- Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
- Total knee arthroplasty (TKA)
- Revision knee arthroplasty
Orthopedic and Spine Surgeon Experience: 18+ YearsHospital Affiliation: Gleneagles HospitalHospital accreditation: NABH, JCI
Hospitals where these doctors practise
🇮🇳 Noida, IndiaStarting from$6,500
Fortis Hospital, Noida
Est. 2004
NABH — National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers accreditationJCI — Joint Commission International accreditation
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)OrthopedicsCardiac SurgeryCardiology
1+
Doctors for Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
4.5
88 reviews
236+
Beds
22+
Years Since Founded
🇮🇳 Parel, Mumbai, IndiaStarting from$6,500
Gleneagles Global Hospitals (Global Hospitals)
Est. 1996
NABH — National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers accreditationJCI — Joint Commission International accreditation
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)OrthopedicsLiver TransplantCardiac Surgery
3+
Doctors for Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
4.6
183 reviews
450+
Beds
30+
Years Since Founded
🇮🇳 Chennai, IndiaStarting from$6,500
Gleneagles Global Hospital
Est. 1999
NABH — National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers accreditationJCI — Joint Commission International accreditation
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)OrthopedicsCardiac SurgeryCardiology
1+
Doctors for Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
4.7
112 reviews
1000+
Beds
27+
Years Since Founded
🇮🇳 New Delhi, IndiaStarting from$6,500
BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital
Est. 1959
JCI — Joint Commission International accreditationNABH — National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers accreditation
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)OrthopedicsCardiac SurgeryCardiology
1+
Doctors for Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
3.8
48 reviews
650+
Beds
67+
Years Since Founded
🇮🇳 Gurgaon, IndiaStarting from$6,500
Artemis Hospital
Est. 2007
JCI — Joint Commission International accreditationNABH — National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers accreditation
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)OrthopedicsCardiac SurgeryCardiology
1+
Doctors for Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
4.9
64 reviews
750+
Beds
19+
Years Since Founded
Why consider treatment in India?
Many international patients consider India for spondylolisthesis treatment for several reasons, including:
More affordable estimates
Competitive indicative costs compared with many other countries, for similar clinical standards.
Internationally accredited hospitals
Hospitals experienced in treating international patients.
Experienced specialists
Doctors who regularly manage similar cases.
Care coordination support
A team to help with planning, medical translation and follow-up.
About the Procedure
What is Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)?
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a spinal surgery used to treat spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal instability by removing a damaged disc through a posterior-lateral approach and fusing the adjacent vertebrae with a bone graft and cage, stabilized with screws and rods. It relieves nerve compression, reduces back and leg pain, and restores spinal alignment and stability. TLIF is commonly recommended when conservative treatments like physiotherapy and medication fail to control symptoms.
Who may be considered?
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) may be considered after a qualified specialist reviews your reports and medical history. Suitability varies from person to person and must be assessed by your treating doctor.
How does it work?
A traditional open surgical approach providing wide visualization of the spine, ideal for multi-level fusions or complex deformity correction.
2 approaches available for this procedure:
Open TLIF
Most PopularA traditional open surgical approach providing wide visualization of the spine, ideal for multi-level fusions or complex deformity correction.
Comprehensive Investigations
Estimated cost: $300 - $800
MRI lumbar spine, CT scan, X-rays (flexion/extension), CBC, coagulation profile, ECG, kidney function tests, bone density scan (if indicated)
Treatment / Procedure Estimate
Estimated cost in India: $6,500 - $10,500
Stay in India
Pre-procedure stay (outside hospital): ~1-2 days
Hospitalisation: ~5-7 days
Recovery period (outside hospital): ~4-6 weeks recommended
Total stay: approx 15-20 days
Usually Included in Hospital Package
- Pre-surgical consultation and workup
- Surgeon and anesthesia fees
- Implants (cage, screws, rods)
- Hospital stay in standard/private room
- Post-operative physiotherapy sessions
- Airport-hospital transfers
Usually Not Included
- International/domestic flights
- Visa and medical visa extension fees
- Attendant accommodation outside hospital
- Post-discharge medications
- Extended ICU stay if complications arise
Recovery and follow-up
Patients typically begin gentle walking within 24-48 hours after surgery, with a lumbar brace advised for 6-8 weeks and a gradual return to normal activity guided by physiotherapy and follow-up imaging.
Risks
As with any spinal fusion, potential risks include infection, nerve or dural injury, hardware failure, non-union of the fusion, and, rarely, persistent pain requiring further intervention.
Alternatives
Depending on severity, alternatives may include conservative management with physiotherapy and epidural injections, or other fusion techniques such as posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) or anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF).
What we need to prepare a formal estimate
Share whatever you have — the care team will confirm the final checklist after reviewing your case.
Reports required
- Recent MRI of lumbar spine (within 3 months)
- CT scan of lumbar spine
- Dynamic X-rays (flexion/extension views)
- Detailed history of pain, numbness, or weakness
- Previous spine surgery records (if any)
- Current medication list
- Bone density (DEXA) report if osteoporosis suspected
- Physiotherapy/conservative treatment history
Patient information needed
- Age and body weight
- Duration and severity of back/leg pain
- History of diabetes, hypertension, or cardiac conditions
- Any history of blood thinners or anticoagulant use
- Smoking or alcohol history
- Mobility status and neurological symptoms
- Allergy history
- Preferred travel dates and companion details
Costs shown are indicative planning estimates based on typical pricing across leading Indian hospitals. They are not a quote — actual pricing depends on your case complexity, hospital choice, and length of stay. Share your reports for a personalized estimate.
How this directory is built
Doctors are matched using the specialty, location, condition (Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)) and procedure (Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)) recorded in their profiles. Inclusion is not an endorsement and does not guarantee a treatment outcome.
Need help with the next step?
Share your needs with our care coordination team for information about doctors and hospitals.
Common questions
FAQs about Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in India
What is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which a vertebra, most often in the lumbar (lower) spine, slides out of its normal position and shifts forward onto the bone beneath it, potentially placing pressure on spinal nerves or the spinal cord.
What are the symptoms and health risks of Spondylolisthesis?
Common symptoms include persistent lower back pain, buttock or leg pain (sciatica), muscle tightness in the hamstrings, numbness or tingling in the legs, and in more advanced cases, weakness or difficulty walking. High-grade slippage can occasionally affect bladder or bowel control, which warrants prompt medical attention. Experiencing any of these symptoms does not confirm a diagnosis of spondylolisthesis, as they can overlap with other spinal and nerve conditions.
How is Spondylolisthesis diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a clinical history and physical examination assessing posture, range of motion, reflexes, and neurological signs. Standing X-rays are the standard first-line imaging tool and allow the degree of slippage to be graded using the Meyerding classification (Grade I through Grade V, based on the percentage of vertebral displacement). MRI or CT scanning is typically added to evaluate the soft tissues, nerve compression, disc integrity, and surgical planning when needed; individual findings will determine which investigations are most appropriate.
How is Spondylolisthesis treated?
Treatment is tailored to the grade of slippage, symptom severity, neurological involvement, and the patient's overall health, as determined by a qualified clinician. Lower-grade cases (typically Meyerding Grade I–II) are often managed effectively without surgery through physical therapy, pain management, and activity modification. Higher-grade slippage or cases with progressive neurological deficits may require surgical stabilisation, with procedures such as Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) or Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) commonly used to restore spinal alignment and relieve nerve compression; the most appropriate approach depends entirely on individual assessment.
Can Spondylolisthesis be treated without a procedure?
Non-surgical management is a meaningful first-line option for many patients, particularly those with Grade I or Grade II slippage and manageable symptoms. This typically includes a structured physiotherapy programme focused on core strengthening and spinal stabilisation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or short-term analgesics for pain relief, activity modification, and epidural steroid injections where nerve irritation is a predominant feature. Surgery is generally considered when conservative measures have been tried for an adequate period without sufficient improvement, or when neurological symptoms are worsening.
When is Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) considered for Spondylolisthesis?
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) may be considered only when it is appropriate for the confirmed diagnosis and the expected benefit outweighs the individual risks. The decision may depend on symptom severity, investigation results, previous treatment, overall health and the patient's goals. A specialist should discuss alternatives and recovery before any procedure is planned.
Which doctor treats Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is typically evaluated and managed by an orthopaedic spine surgeon or a neurosurgeon with a subspecialty focus on spinal disorders; a spine-specialised physiatrist or rehabilitation physician may also be involved in non-surgical care. In complex or high-grade cases, a multidisciplinary team including pain management specialists and physiotherapists is often part of the treatment pathway.
How do I choose a doctor for Spondylolisthesis?
When comparing providers, look for a spine surgeon with demonstrable experience in lumbar fusion procedures (PLIF or TLIF), access to intraoperative neuromonitoring and advanced imaging, and a clear protocol for post-operative rehabilitation and long-term follow-up. Affiliation with a facility that offers multidisciplinary spinal care — including physiotherapy, pain management, and neurological support — can be an important indicator of comprehensive, patient-centred treatment.
What documents do international patients need to share for a medical evaluation?
Share a concise medical summary, symptom timeline, previous diagnoses, investigation and imaging reports, procedure or biopsy reports where relevant, current medicines, allergies and related treatment records. Provide clear copies with translations when needed. The reviewing doctor may request additional information before giving an opinion.
How does GAF Healthcare help international patients plan treatment in India?
Our care coordination team can review the initial information, help identify suitable doctors and hospitals, request a medical opinion where available, explain next steps and indicative cost information, and support practical planning before travel. A remote opinion does not replace an in-person examination or emergency care.