When Should I Ask for a Spinal Surgery Second Opinion?

If you’ve recently been given a medical diagnosis that includes the possibility of spinal surgery, you probably have a lot of questions and are wondering if, in fact, you need the recommended surgery.

You may also be wondering if you should seek out a second opinion.  This is completely normal–most people want to make sure that they, and their medical providers, are making the correct choice when it comes to any major surgery.

Even though second opinions can give you peace of mind, many patients still wonder when–or if–they should pursue one.

Reasons to Seek Out a Second Opinion

Simply put, we believe a second opinion is in order any time serious surgery has been recommended to you–whether it’s for your spine or any other part of your body.  Your health is too important and unnecessary surgeries are recommended far too often.

Having said that, there are certain instances when it is particularly important to seek out a second opinion.  Here are a few:

  • You are uncomfortable with your primary doctor for any reason. In this case, you should not only seek out a reliable second opinion–you should also consider transitioning to another provider, if possible.
  • Your primary doctor has not fully explained to you why the surgery is necessary.  Sometimes doctors rush through complicated explanations before a patient can fully comprehend the implications.  Or, even worse, they recommend a surgery because it’s a preferable option for them–not you!  We take the time to discuss your options with you and ensure you understand them before making your final decision.
  • You are told that spinal surgery is the only option.  While this may truly be the case, you do not want to proceed with surgery until you’ve exhausted every other non-surgical option.  Our surgeons are experts in the field of spinal health and will help you explore all of your options.
  • You have undergone spinal surgery in the past.  Additional surgery can mean additional complications.  All the more reason to get another set of well-trained eyes to review your case.
  • You love your doctor, but just want some additional peace of mind.  Even the best medical providers can overlook or be unfamiliar with certain solutions.  Getting a second opinion isn’t a reflection on your faith in your primary doctor, it’s a way to give them–and you–additional insight into your condition.

When to Ask for a Second Opinion

If possible, once you’ve received your initial diagnosis, take a couple of days to let it sink in and do some additional research on your condition and the recommended procedure.

Once you’ve done that–seek out a second opinion.  By taking action quickly, you are ensuring that all parties involved–you, your family and your primary medical provider–have enough time to review your unique requirements and can offer you the best counsel.

We Are Here to Help

Helping people is why we became surgeons in the first place and we’d be happy to help you with your second opinion as well.

Call us today at 855-377-4767.

You can also enter your contact information in the form on the right side of this page.  One of our case coordinators will contact you to get some initial information, answer your questions and schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons.

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