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← Return to Lumbar Back Problems
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I am happy to hear you are back at 100%!!!!! I am happy to hear any positive story about back surgery. I have lumbar problems. Injections aren't working. Back surgery has been presented to me as an option, but I was warned about the difficult and lengthy recovery period. The surgeon did not promise success. I am functional to a point; I can walk, but I hate standing. I have to rest a lot and take medication. So, the question is " How do I pick a surgeon?" I need to get a second opinion and I am seeking more info on a minimally invasive procedure which seem to be available in my area, but I don't know if that is right for me. I like to make informed decisions but I don't know how to pick a surgeon. Any thoughts?
Replies to "I am happy to hear you are back at 100%!!!!! I am happy to hear any..."
I don’t think this message is to me. Have not had surgery, and only wish I were 100%
I asked everyone I knew who had surgery about the outcome of their surgery and who did the surgery. I also asked everyone in physical therapy about their experience. The best resource is any physical therapist who rehabs people from these surgeries. They see the results repeated every day and can tell you which doctor has good outcomes and who they recommend. If you ask about someone they don't like they just go silent or say they don't know. You can also read reviews of the doctors online. Nurses are often a good source of information as well. It is a research project but well worth it.
I think the process (I am in the middle of three planned surgeries) is straight forward. (1) Get the best diagnosis you can! That means go to where the MRI/X-Ray equipment is top notch. (I went to one "average" place and then to Mayo. The output at Mayo was several levels more sophisticated). (2) Find a facility that has a specialty in spine surgery. My research landed me on using a neurosurgeon rather than an orthopedic surgeon. I want my nerves well treated! (3) Find a surgeon who's experienced and, in my case, a published researcher in this medical field. He is familiar with the very latest equipment and procedures. His bedside manner is lacking...but I really only care about his "In the OR manner"...! (4) Agree on a surgical strategy w/your doc that you're comfortable with. (5) At that point, make your decision, focus on getting better, and trust the detailed process you followed to then. No need to look back or second-guess yourself.
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Back surgery in the hands of a good surgeon is not that bad. I can only say interview as many surgeons you need to find one you trust. Ask others about their outcome for back surgery.
Ask the PTs. They know what surgeons have good outcomes. Mayo is a good hospital and highly rated. I suggest you start with their neuro team. I spent years in pain because I feared back surgery. I am glad I finally did it. I am 75 years old and 100% normal now. Good luck!