If you are concerned that your back condition might require surgery or you have been recommended to undergo spine surgery, you should clarify all your doubts and worries before committing to the procedure. Here are 5 questions to ask your surgeon before spine surgery:
- What is the underlying cause for my back complaint and can the problem get better without surgery?
You need to have a clear understanding of your diagnosis so you have a good understanding of what treatment might be necessary. If the problem is not permanent one can get better on its own, the surgery may not be the best option for you. - What are the alternative treatments for my back complaint?
Oftentimes, there is more than one way to treat the back complaint or perform the surgery. It really depends on your specific condition and whether or not you have exhausted all other non-surgical treatment options. Dr. Moazzaz believes that conservative therapy should always be the first line of treatment. In fact, 80% of patients get better without surgery in 1-3 months. If symptoms do not get better during that time frame, then surgery should be considered. - Can the spine surgery be performed using the minimally invasive technique?
Minimally invasive surgery can be performed using smaller incisions with minimal trauma to tissues, less bleeding, and less risk of complications enabling faster healing and quick return to routine activities. - What are the chances of success with the spine surgery?
Spine surgery is a major surgical procedure, but for the vast majority of properly selected patients can expect significant improvement in quality of life after the surgery. Some surgeries have a better chance of success than others and your surgeon should be able to explain it to you. - How fast can I expect to recover after spine surgery?
Most patients can expect to be discharged home after an overnight stay or within a day or two after fusion surgery. You can begin driving a car in 1-2 weeks provided you have weaned off pain medication. Some form of light duty work may be possible as early as 1-2 weeks depending on the nature of the work.
Consult Dr. Payam Moazzaz, orthopedic spine surgeon serving the communities in Oceanside and Carlsbad, California, to discuss nonsurgical and surgical treatment options for your back pain. Please call (760) 904 5444 to book your appointment.