2. If you’re considering a minimally invasive
procedure to treat chronic pain due to a
degenerative spine condition, you’ll want to
research several laser spine surgeons to
ensure that the one you choose has the
expertise and training necessary to
successfully perform endoscopic procedures
on the neck and back. This may mean
confirming qualifications, experience,
specializations, board certifications, and
awards.
3. Qualifications & Experience
As with any type of surgeon, you should always review the qualifications
and experience associated with the laser spine surgeons you are
considering. This could include finding out the following:
• What type of doctor they are (medical doctor or doctor of
osteopathic medicine)
• Where they went to medical school
• Where they completed their residency
• Whether they’ve completed a fellowship in their field of
specialization
• Whether they are board certified in orthopedic surgery,
neurosurgery, or spine surgery by a reputable certifying body in the
United States
• Where they’ve been employed in the past
4. Time in Practice & Testimonials
Perhaps one of the most useful tools you can use while evaluating a surgeon
is to compare his or her qualifications with the amount of time he or she has
actually been in practice. While a surgeon who has only several years of
experience performing the type of procedure you’re considering may be
qualified to perform your surgery, you may feel
more comfortable with a surgeon that has many
more years of experience.
Another effective way to evaluate laser spine
surgeons includes reviewing patient testimonials.
If a surgeon claims to have helped certain individuals
find relief from back and neck pain, there are likely
patients that are willing to talk about and share their
experiences with you.
5. Specialization & Awards
Although they are trained in many different facets
of spine surgery, some laser spine surgeons may
specialize in a certain procedure or focus on
treating a specific condition. It may be
advantageous for you to seek a surgeon who not
only has the sufficient qualifications and
experience, but also specializes in treating your
condition or performing a specific procedure. This
could be even more helpful if they’ve won awards
or recognition for their specialized skills.
6. The Facility
Just as it’s important to confirm the qualifications
and experience of laser spine surgeons, it’s also
important to research the facility at which they
perform their outpatient procedures. Is the surgical
facility accredited by an ambulatory health care
organization? Are other health care professionals,
such as anesthesiologists, physicians, and nurses on
staff? Do they all uphold a set of standards to
ensure the best overall care for their patients?
7. Before You Consent to Surgery
You should know that most patients suffering from back and neck pain won’t require surgical
intervention. In fact, only a small percentage of patients are candidates for elective surgery,
largely due to the fact that their spine conditions significantly affect the patient’s quality of life. In
some cases, patients whose symptoms persist even after several weeks or months of
conservative, nonsurgical treatment (physical therapy, pain medication, anti-inflammatory drugs,
low-impact exercise, etc.) may be candidates for an elective surgical procedure.
That said, if your doctor has asked you to consider back or neck surgery, the best thing you can do
for yourself prior to signing a consent form is to obtain a second, third, or even fourth medical
opinion from other doctors. This can help to confirm the diagnosis of your specific condition, as
well as ensure that all conservative therapies have been exhausted.
And, if you do decide to undergo a procedure, it may also be advantageous for you to not only
thoroughly research laser spine surgeons but also research the procedures themselves. This can
help you formulate reasonable expectations for your outcome, understand the related
advantages and disadvantages, and prepare yourself mentally and physically to undergo surgery.
