How do I know if I need spine surgery?

Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, and injections have not provided adequate relief after 6-12 weeks, or if you have severe neurological symptoms like significant weakness or loss of bowel/bladder control.

What makes minimally invasive spine surgery different?

Minimally invasive spine surgery Indiana techniques use smaller incisions, specialized instruments, and advanced imaging to access the spine with less tissue damage. This results in less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Am I a candidate for robotic spine surgery?

Robotic spine surgery Fort Wayne is suitable for many fusion procedures and offers enhanced precision in screw placement. Dr. Greenberg will evaluate your specific condition, anatomy, and surgical needs to determine if robotic assistance would benefit your procedure.

How should I prepare for surgery?

Pre-surgical preparation includes stopping certain medications, arranging transportation, preparing your home for recovery, and following pre-operative instructions. We provide a comprehensive preparation checklist during your pre-surgical consultation.

Is minimally invasive spine surgery covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans cover medically necessary spine surgery procedures, including minimally invasive techniques. Our staff will verify your coverage and obtain pre-authorization before your procedure. We work with most major insurance providers.

How long will I be in the hospital?

Many minimally invasive procedures are performed on an outpatient basis or require only a 23-hour observation stay. More complex procedures may require 1-2 days in the hospital. The exact length depends on your specific procedure and recovery progress.

What should I bring to my consultation?

Please bring recent MRI or CT scans, X-rays, list of current medications, insurance cards, and any relevant medical records. If you don't have imaging, we can arrange for appropriate studies to be performed.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, we offer various payment options and can work with you to establish a payment plan that fits your budget. Our financial counselors will discuss all available options during your consultation.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Most spine surgeries are performed under general anesthesia. Our experienced anesthesiology team will discuss the anesthesia plan with you before surgery and monitor you closely throughout the procedure.

How long does the surgery take?

Surgery time varies depending on the procedure. Simple discectomies may take 30-60 minutes, while more complex fusion procedures can take 2-4 hours. Dr. Greenberg will provide an estimated timeframe based on your specific procedure.

Can family members stay during surgery?

Family members can wait in our comfortable family waiting area during surgery. Our staff will provide regular updates, and Dr. Greenberg will speak with your family immediately after the procedure to discuss the results.

What happens immediately after surgery?

You'll be monitored in the recovery room until you're fully awake. For outpatient procedures, you'll typically go home the same day once you meet discharge criteria. Our nursing staff will provide detailed post-operative instructions.

How long is the recovery period?

Recovery varies by procedure and individual. Minimally invasive procedures typically allow return to desk work in 1-2 weeks and full activities in 6-12 weeks. Fusion procedures may require 3-6 months for complete healing. Dr. Greenberg will provide specific timelines for your procedure.

When can I return to work?

Return to work depends on your job requirements and procedure type. Desk jobs may be resumed in 1-2 weeks with restrictions, while physical labor may require 6-12 weeks or more. We provide detailed work restriction guidelines and can communicate with your employer as needed.

Will I need physical therapy?

Physical therapy is often recommended to optimize your recovery and prevent future problems. We work with excellent physical therapists who specialize in post-surgical spine rehabilitation. The timing and duration of therapy depend on your specific procedure.

What are the success rates for minimally invasive spine surgery?

Success rates for minimally invasive spine surgery are excellent, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function. Specific success rates vary by procedure, but generally range from 85-95% for appropriate candidates. Dr. Greenberg will discuss expected outcomes for your specific condition.

What if I need disc replacement surgery?

As an experienced disc replacement surgeon, Dr. Greenberg offers artificial disc replacement for appropriate candidates. This motion-preserving procedure can be an excellent alternative to fusion for certain cervical and lumbar conditions, maintaining natural spine movement while eliminating pain.

What are the long-term risks after ACDF?

Literature notes adjacent segment disease can occur over time; we discuss disc replacement or foraminotomy when motion preservation is appropriate. Summaries reflect current literature; individual results vary.

Greenberg Spine

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about minimally invasive spine surgery Indiana, robotic spine surgery Fort Wayne procedures, and what to expect from your disc replacement surgeon experience.

Pre-Surgery Questions

Insurance & Logistics

Surgery Day

Recovery & Outcomes

Still Have Questions?

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