If you have lived with neck and back problems too long, spinal surgery is likely the best recourse to regain the quality of life you have lost to pain. Luckily, spine surgeons now offer top of the line technology and surgical procedures, which greatly reduce post-operative problems and boost shorter recovery times. But how do you know who the best spine surgeons are? Even if you have been referred to one by your primary doctor, is that spine surgeon the right one for you?
You would not blindly walk onto the first car lot you come to and purchase a new vehicle would you? No, you would research on the Internet and talk with friends and family to discover all of the options available to you before making an informed decision. Well, the same principle applies to your health! Choosing a surgeon to operate on your spine will perhaps be one of the most important decisions of your life. Choose wisely.
Questions to Ask when Finding the Best Spine Surgeons
Remember, this is your life you are safeguarding so don’t be shy! Ask the difficult, critical questions about the surgeon’s education, experience and qualifications. Here are a few questions to pose:
1. Where did you go to school? Are you board certified?
2. Are you fellowship trained in this particular type of spinal surgery? (The best spine surgeons should be fellowship trained, especially with delicate procedures such as disc fusion, replacement and other intricate surgeries.)
3. How many times have you performed this surgery? Can I speak with some of your other patients that had the same procedure?
4. Who else would you recommend to see if a second opinion is wanted?
Red Flags to Watch For
When asking questions of the surgeons you meet with before surgery, do they display any defensiveness? The best spine surgeons are confident in their abilities and have many patients with a good recovery rate so they will not feel threatened or insulted by your questions. Actually, they will likely respect the fact that you are so diligent about your health.
Unlike cars and various products where you can go online and consult the latest reviews, finding the best spine surgeons is a bit more difficult. Evaluate the surgeons’ responses, talk with his staff and be sure to follow up on his references, especially from other patients. All of these things will help you make the right choice.
Looking for the best spine surgeons, Contact Dr.Alexander N. Lenard, MD.
