NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute is a state-of-the-art pain center with locations near you in New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Here, we help you evaluate your options and make an informed decision with our guide to choosing a spine surgeon for MIS procedures.
Key Takeaways
- Spine surgeons should have fellowship training in MIS.
- The higher the case volume, the more experience the surgeon has.
- Do not hesitate to ask spine surgeons questions about their approach to treatment, infection control, and recovery support.
- Watch for red flags such as poor communication, a dismissive attitude, or pressure to schedule appointments too quickly.
What Training and Experience Should You Look for in a Spine Surgeon?
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is an advanced treatment approach. It uses specialized tools to perform procedures through smaller incisions, minimizing muscle disruption for a faster recovery. To work effectively, surgeons must have training in MIS techniques and equipment.
The first thing to look for is fellowship training in MIS. A fellowship is an optional training period that physicians may undergo after completing medical school and their residency. It provides in-depth, hands-on training in a medical subspecialty, with the opportunity to master advanced skills and gain experience in complex procedures, such as MIS.
Next, look for the surgeon’s case volume. Each successful case provides additional experience with that procedure. The more cases the surgeon has handled, the more experience they have, especially if they perform a wide variety of treatments. You can check patient reviews to learn more about the outcomes of previous cases and find out whether they were completed to the patient’s satisfaction.
What Questions Should You Ask a Spine Surgeon?
After finding a spine surgeon with training and experience, your next step is to schedule a consultation and discuss your care. This is an opportunity for the surgeon to learn more about your condition and goals from treatment, but it’s also a chance for you to learn more about the surgeon. Do not hesitate to ask questions about their approach and experience. Good questions to ask include:
- What is your case volume?
- What are your success rates?
- How often do you see complications or the need for revision?
- What imaging technologies do you have available?
- What is your approach to nerve monitoring?
- What measures do you use to control infection?
- How involved are you in the lead-up to surgery?
- Can you provide referrals to trusted physical therapists?
By asking questions and getting positive answers, you can help yourself feel more confident about your choice of spine surgeon.
What Are Red Flags When Choosing a Spine Surgeon?
At every stage of the selection process, don’t just look for qualifications of a skilled surgeon. Also pay attention to warning signs that the surgeon will not deliver a reliable service. Even qualified and experienced professionals may offer a subpar service if they are uncommunicative or dismissive. Red flags about a doctor to watch for include:
- Lack of specialty training
- Specialty training that is not related to MIS surgery
- Vague answers about experience
- Lack of clear explanations
- Unwillingness to answer questions
- No alternative treatments presented
- Pressure to schedule appointments quickly
- No involvement in the lead-up to surgery
- Promising unrealistic results
- Dismissive attitudes toward your pain or medical history
If you notice any of these problems as you prepare for surgery, then the practice may not be right for your needs. While finding another might seem like a hassle, it’s usually better to take the extra time to find a surgeon you can trust to deliver a high level of care.
Who Performs Surgeries at NU-Spine?
Dr. Branco Skovrlj
Dr. Branko Skovrlj is the founder of NU-Spine, a top-rated neurosurgeon, and one of just a few New Jersey doctors to specialize exclusively in spine treatments. While his expertise covers the full range of spine treatments, his special interest is in complex procedures, such as spinal deformity corrections.
Dr. Robert J. Rothrock
Dr. Robert J. Rothrock is a board-certified neurosurgeon with dual fellowships in minimally invasive and complex spinal neurosurgery. Dr. Skovrlj was Dr. Rothrock’s mentor during residency training, and both doctors share the same philosophy of care. Like Dr. Skovrlj, Dr. Rothrock emphasizes minimally invasive treatments whenever possible.
Find an Expert MIS Spine Surgeon Near You in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida
If you are looking for a trustworthy MIS spine surgeon, look no further than NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, home to Dr. Branko Skovrlj and Dr. Robert J. Rothrock. Transform your life with a touch of care, with advanced procedures, experienced surgical teams, and comprehensive recovery support.
We offer treatment at locations near you in New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania. To learn more about choosing a spine surgeon for MIS procedures, contact us today and take the first step toward a pain-free future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Spine Surgeon for MIS Procedures
What should I look for when choosing a spine surgeon for MIS procedures?
When choosing a spine surgeon, look for fellowship training with MIS specialization. Also look for surgeons who handle a large case volume, perform a wide variety of MIS procedures, and have positive reviews from previous patients.
How important is fellowship training and MIS specialization?
Fellowship training and MIS specialization are extremely important. Minimally invasive spine surgeries are advanced procedures that require extra skill and experience. Fellowship training is an optional period of education in a subspecialty, such as MIS, that physicians may complete to gain deep clinical experience and master advanced treatments.
What are warning signs that a surgeon or practice may not be the right fit?
Warning signs that a surgeon isn’t a good fit include minimal experience, a specialization that isn’t related to your needs, and a lack of information about previous patients. You should also be wary about poor communication, rushed appointments, and lack of involvement in the lead-up to surgery.