The result of your spinal surgery can truly be a positive one with a quicker recovery time if you find one of the best spine surgeons available to perform it. If you have run the gamut of every non-surgical treatment available including physical therapy and chiropractic care, the next step is surgery. Talk with your primary care doctor first to help you with referrals. Operating on the spine is serious so you cannot take the situation lightly when deciding on a surgeon.
Qualities to Look for
There are a number of surgeons likely in your area that can operate on the spine, so which one is right for you? Doctor referrals are always good to follow up on, as are referrals from other family and friends that perhaps have had similar experiences as you. Still, narrowing down your choice from a pool of the best spine surgeons available to you can be daunting. However, if you have a list of qualities you are seeking in a surgeon it can help you make a decision.
- Certification – Is the surgeon board certified by a governing board such as the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons? Fellowship trained in spinal surgery is also very important.
- Focus of the Surgeon’s Practice – A good indicator of a surgeon’s effectiveness is how much their medical practice focuses on conditions of the spine. If at least half the practice or more is devoted to spinal problems, chances are the surgeon is well educated on the latest advancements in treatment.
- Experience and Referrals – The best spine surgeons will inform you of how many surgeries they have performed, especially the type you require. They will also share recovery and success rates too. When you talk with the surgeon, ask for referrals from former patients so you can talk with them about their surgical experiences.
- Check with the State Medical Board – You can research your surgeon candidates through your state’s medical board. This can help you verify his license to practice as well as certified specialties and whether or not any disciplinary actions have ever been taken against them.
Final Thoughts
There is something to be said for how you feel and interact with the surgeon. You might find several of the best spine surgeons around but which one do you choose? The answer is the one you feel most comfortable with. Do they keep you informed with every step and decision to be made? Do they appear to truly care about you and your pain? Sometimes, it all comes down to how you feel.
