What To Ask Your Spine Surgeon Before Choosing Surgery

If you have been told that you need spine surgery, it is important to fully understand the procedure, the risks and benefits, and your options. Your spine surgeon will discuss the procedure with you in depth prior to your surgery. Here are some questions to ask your spine surgeon before choosing spine surgery.

How does the surgery work?

It is essential to have a basic understanding of how the surgery works, which will vary based on the condition being treated and the type of surgery. There are two main types of spine surgery: 

• Traditional spine surgery - An invasive, but sometimes necessary, procedure in which the doctor creates a large incision along the affected area of the spine in order to operate. The doctor may perform major procedures like fusing vertebrae together or removing pieces of bone during this type of surgery.
• Minimally invasive spine surgery - Spine surgery which is performed endoscopically, allowing the doctor to operate without creating large incisions and opening up the spine. Laser spine surgery is an example. Less likely to require major procedures like the removal of bone. Comes with lower risks and a shorter recovery time.

What are the risks?

All surgery, whether minimally invasive or not, comes with some risk of side effects. The magnitude of the risk depends on the surgery, as well as the individual's risk factors. Some side effects which may occur from spine surgery include:

• Adverse reaction to anesthesia
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Failure to resolve symptoms

In rare cases, paralysis and death can occur from spine surgery.

What are the benefits?

The risks must be weighed with the potential benefits of the surgery, which your spine surgeon should explain in detail. In general, the physician should recommend spine surgery only if the chances of the condition recovering otherwise are low, and the risks are not overwhelming.

Are there other options?

In some cases, there may be other options to consider. For example, patients who have been told they are candidates for traditional spine surgery may also be good candidates for minimally invasive spine surgery, which may be a better choice in many cases.

What will the recovery look like?

It is important to understand what to expect during the recovery time, so that you can anticipate your needs and make the proper arrangements. Understanding what to expect can make the process of recovering less frustrating.

Dr. Sukdeb Datta would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your spine condition, and discuss your questions about spine surgery. To schedule your consultation today, please contact the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center by clicking below and entering your information or giving us a call at (212) 430-0312.