Outpatient Spine Surgery
Thanks to surgical advances, spine procedures can take place in an outpatient setting.
Understanding Outpatient Spine Surgery
Traditionally, spine surgery has taken place in a hospital environment and involved open surgery and an inpatient hospital stay. Advances in minimally invasive surgical techniques have made it possible for many procedures to take place in an outpatient setting, and today, same-day surgeries are becoming increasingly common.
Common outpatient spine surgeries include:
- Lumbar laminectomy or microdiscectomy
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
- Spinal decompression
- Cervical disc replacement
Due to the rise in same-day procedures for all types of orthopaedic surgery, outpatient ambulatory surgery centers are now designed to provide a more personalized approach. Patients receiving spine surgery arrive at these centers, receive anesthesia prior to their procedure, and afterwards, are discharged to return home with a designated caregiver that same day to begin the recovery process.
Benefits
Compared to traditional open surgery, the minimally invasive surgical techniques used during outpatient procedures offer a lower risk of complications, involve smaller incisions and less scarring, and spare healthy tissue around the spine – all of which contribute to a quicker recovery.
Same-day surgeries also cut down on delays, waiting times, and spare costs associated with overnight hospital stays. Additionally, patients can recover in the comfort of a familiar home environment.
Outlook
Offering convenience and comfort, as well as faster recovery times, outpatient spine surgery is revolutionizing the patient experience. If you are a candidate for spine surgery, consult with your doctor to determine whether an outpatient procedure is right for you.
“Surgical options for the spine are as varied as the conditions that can affect it — from degenerative disc disease and herniations to spinal stenosis and structural deformities. While the idea of spine surgery can be daunting for many, advances in minimally invasive and outpatient techniques have made the experience significantly less intimidating. These modern approaches often mean less pain, quicker recoveries, and less time spent away from home and work. My goal is always to match the right treatment to the right patient — taking into account their specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and personal goals for recovery and long-term mobility.” ~Benjamin Geddes, MD
Dr. Benjamin Geddes, MD
Fellowship Trained Adult & Pediatric Spine Surgeon
