Some neurosurgeons treat EDS using transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). TLIF is an advanced minimally invasive spinal fusion procedure, in which vertebrae are stabilized to take pressure off nerves and relieve back pain. It is a minimally invasive alternative to older, more invasive methods of spinal fusion, which were more painful and required longer recovery periods. TLIF is performed through two very small incisions in the back, so EDS patients experience less pain, shorter recovery times, and fewer surgical complications.
Illustration by Thom Graves, CMI