When conservative methods of treating your back injury are to no avail, the next option for most individuals is a more invasive procedure. As soon as the term “surgery” is brought up, it is natural to have a million and one questions. The majority of people are not trained medical professionals however, making asking “the right” questions one of the biggest obstacles.
While there are considerations that are specific to each individual faced with surgery, here are five questions to ask prior to spine surgery:
1. Is spine surgery necessary?
While some surgeons do get a bad rap, the vast majority would never endanger a patient by performing an unnecessary procedure especially spine surgery. Often times, surgery is deemed necessary after the physician and patient can discuss exactly the quality of life that the patient needs to live in order to be happy in their day to day life. Some procedures are necessary for overall health and function while others are more aggressive and geared towards a population looking to live a very active lifestyle. It’s important to figure out where you fall along this continuum.
2. What are the risks?
Though minimally invasive spine surgery has less risk than a traditional procedure, no surgery is without risk. When considering how necessary this procedure is for you specifically, consider weighing the risks of the procedure and what an adverse outcome could mean for your quality of life. The more severe the condition, the less daunting risks can appear, especially if the condition has already become debilitating. However, it is your right as a patient to know what the possible outcomes are even if it is a tough conversation to have.
3. What will my recovery look like?
Depending on the procedure you are having done, you may be looking at a very long road ahead after surgery. For eligible candidates, minimally invasive spine surgery can result in less painful and shorter recovery times. Having realistic expectations of what is to come can help you and your family make the necessary arrangements for post-op care. While every patient responds differently, generally your physician will be able to give you a reasonable prognosis and a timeline for what your recovery should look like.
4. Is this a surgery you normally do and will you yourself be performing it?
As a patient, you have the right to question your physician about their level of comfort performing the operation they are recommending. An experienced physician will have no problem answering this question. If you are having your surgery done at a teaching hospital, there is a good chance residents will be in the operating room. Asking who will do the procedure may put your mind at ease as often times residents do play a role, however large or small, in your care. The role they play will normally be dependent on both their experience and the complexity of your specific surgery.
5. Will my insurance cover this surgery?
If the surgery is deemed necessary, your insurance should cover a great portion of it, depending on your provider of course. However, elective surgeries are often minimally covered and this discussion should be had prior to agreeing to move forward. Your physician and insurance company should be completely transparent about the expenses you should plan to incur with regards to the operation.
About. Dr. Nael Shanti
Dr. Nael Shanti of Cary Orthopaedics specializes in the most advanced spine treatment methods including minimally invasive surgery. As a board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeon, he treats all relevant spinal conditions of the neck and low back. He is committed to providing accurate diagnoses and effective surgical treatments that bring back functionality to patients who were previously suffering from pain. Call (919) 297-0000 to schedule a consultation and find out if spine surgery may be right for you.