Outpatient Spine Program

Advances in technology have created a world where some complex spine procedures can now be done safely in an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC). For the right patient, same-day surgical options for spine procedures can include:

• Decompression surgery to relieve spinal pressure
• Vertebroplasty to repair fractures or small cracks in the back and neck bones
• Cervical and spine fusion
• Artificial disc replacement
• Fracture repair
• Artificial implants to promote spinal stability
• Exploration

Outpatient spine procedures are not right for everyone. Ideal candidates are active, healthy, not overweight or obese, in generally good physical condition, non-smoking, and highly motivated.

You must have an available care partner to accompany you on the day of surgery, and stay with you when you return home the same day or next day.

The above guidelines are general. Your physician will have his or her own criteria to determine if you’re a good candidate for an outpatient spine procedure.

Benefits to the patient:

• Recover at home – One of the reasons patient satisfaction is high is because patients are able to rest and heal in the comfort of their own home.
• Lessened risk of infection – You are less likely to come in contact with someone who is sick or has been around people who may be sick when you recover in your own home.
• Faster recovery – People who are comfortable at home heal faster and do better than those who are not in their own environment.
• Reduced out-of-pocket cost – On average, patients pay less at an ASC compared to the identical surgical procedure not performed at an ASC. Savings are typically reflected in co-pays and co-insurance.

To learn more, and to find out if you are an ideal candidate for an outpatient spine procedure, talk to your doctor today and tell them you’re interested in having your spine procedure done in the outpatient setting at Saint Thomas Surgery Center - Midtown.