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Seeking a Second Opinion Before Spine Surgery
Second opinions can be extremely helpful to patients when trying to decide about treatment, but many patients are reluctant to get a second opinion because they are afraid of offending their doctors.
Most surgeons are used to second opinions, and have probably given second opinions themselves, so they will most likely not be offended if you seek a second opinion prior to your surgery. It’s important to remember that doctors are not all-knowing. Getting a second opinion can reveal treatment opportunities you didn’t even know were available to you.
Conditions like degenerative disc disease and bulging discs typically don’t require immediate surgery, and can be treated using other means (such as pain meds, injections, and so on). Because of this subjectivity, second opinions can be very helpful to the patient as they are making an informed decision about their care.
How a Second Opinion May Affect Your Clinical Outcome
While your current physician may be highly compassionate and have a bedside manner you appreciate, especially if you’ve trusted them for years, don’t let that stop you from getting a second opinion. In fact, second opinions are very commonplace, just like with any other major decision, like buying a house or car, or even going to college. It’s a good idea to seek a second opinion to understand what you’re getting and why it’s necessary.
While your specific problem and situation are unique, research makes a case for getting additional medical opinions. The doctor who provides this second opinion may offer alternative treatment strategies or suggest some treatments, particularly clinical trials, that may not be offered at your current physician’s medical center. Of course, there is the possibility the second opinion will be the same as the original, but this is not always the case.
How Do Doctors Arrive at a Diagnosis in a Second Opinion?
Your doctor at Inspired Spine will review all your medical history from other specialists, which often includes orthopedists, neurologists, physical therapists, pain specialists, and physiatrists. Your doctor will review your previous exam findings and imagings and give you further input on why surgery may be necessary to get the best outcome for your condition. It is our goal to help you avoid unnecessary surgery and take the least invasive approach that is suitable for your condition. Surgery may still be recommended from our second opinion.
Patients must ask questions and get satisfactory answers, especially if your diagnosis or treatment isn’t clear to you. We can help. Reach out to Inspired Spine today for a free consultation.
Call (952) 225-5266 today if you are curious about how an Inspired Spine procedure can help you. Click here to schedule a second opinion with a surgeon who performs Inspired Spine procedures.
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