A back surgeon is a specialist in treating back pain and related symptoms using invasive operative procedures. Whether or not to have spinal surgery is a serious decision for any patient to make. An informed, objective and talented surgeon can make that choice far easier by presenting a complete clinical picture of the diagnosed condition, as well as an honest prognosis for the surgical resolution of the problematic symptoms. If you are lucky enough to find this type of doctor, then maybe surgery may be a good choice for you. Unfortunately, so many patients report that they were pressured into surgery by fear tactics, intimidation or threats. Other patients report that their surgeons promised them the world and failed to deliver. In many cases, these latter cases resulted in failed back surgery syndrome and an escalation of the already considerable suffering endured.
This essay examines the importance of choosing the right back surgeon, if and when an operation is needed, which is rare.
Back Surgeon Credentials
Experience and results speak louder than words when it comes to choosing a spinal surgeon. A good back doctor will always have an abundance of verifiable success stories and patient recommendations. Promises do not mean much once you have endured an operation and continue to experience pain.
Make sure that your choice of doctor is well versed in treating your particular condition. You do not have to accept the first doctor you consult with. Taking time to find the correct surgeon for your particular needs will almost always pay off when it comes to the quality of your postoperative results.
Types of Back Surgeon
Different surgeons specialize in different procedures and approaches to treatment. If at all possible, try to find a doctor who can perform a minimally invasive version of your prescribed procedure. This way, damage to healthy tissue, healing time and scar tissue will be reduced significantly.
Make sure to shop around for information on different ways in which a procedure can be accomplished. Sometimes, a small difference in surgical technique can have a huge effect on the end result and determine the success of the entire treatment.
Simply consulting with one surgeon and taking their one and only recommendation on the type of procedure you may need (of course, the one they offer) is never advised. Be smart. Get multiple opinions and do lots of independent research before choosing.
Best Results from Back Surgery
I am generally anti-surgery. I admit it. However, I understand that surgery is still an appropriate back pain therapy for some spinal conditions and the only solution for others. If surgery is truly warranted, it pays to find the best surgeon possible.
Patients will spend weeks comparing cars, lawnmowers or even shoes to find the style or price they want, but will often go with the first doctor they meet to perform life-altering surgery on their one and only body. It makes little sense.
Remember, doctors are in business. Business is a competitive field. There is always someone trying to get the best results possible in order to reach the top of their profession. It is your goal as a patient, who is facing a surgical procedure, to find this top surgeon and hire them to perform your crucial operation. Good luck.
