A TLIF cage (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Cage), commonly known as a banana cage, is a specialized spinal implant designed for insertion through a transforaminal (posterolateral) approach. Its curved, banana-like shape allows it to be inserted from one side of the spine and then positioned centrally within the intervertebral disc space.

This design helps in restoring disc height, maintaining lumbar lordosis, and achieving optimal load distribution across the anterior column. The cage is typically filled with bone graft material (autograft, allograft, or synthetic substitutes) to promote osseointegration and solid fusion between vertebrae.

TLIF cages are manufactured from PEEK, titanium, or titanium-coated materials, offering high strength, excellent biocompatibility, and radiolucency (in PEEK) for better postoperative imaging. The implant features serrated or textured surfaces and large graft windows to enhance stability and prevent migration.

Due to its unilateral insertion approach, the TLIF banana cage helps minimize nerve retraction and soft tissue disruption, making it a preferred choice for treating degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, spinal instability, and recurrent disc herniation.

🔹 Key Features

• Curved “banana” shape for transforaminal insertion
• Enables central placement through unilateral approach
• Restores disc height and lumbar alignment
• Large graft window for fusion
• Anti-migration surface design
• Available in PEEK, titanium, or coated variants

🔹 Common Applications

• Degenerative disc disease
• Spondylolisthesis
• Lumbar instability
• Recurrent disc herniation
• Minimally invasive lumbar fusion procedures