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Getting the Right Diagnosis

Effective treatment of spinal conditions depends on getting the diagnosis right. Many symptoms and contributing factors in the spine can make diagnosis sometimes complicated. Getting a second opinion, in which a surgeon thoroughly reviews the medical records, imaging and pain management reports, can help patients get an accurate diagnosis. 

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The Value of Differing Opinions

Getting a second opinion can drastically change the course of treatment for many spine surgery patients. Some patients may initially be told they’re not a candidate for surgery only to have a second opinion offer a surgical solution. Likewise, a patient may initially be offered spine surgery, while a second opinion reveals they can start with a more conservative or less invasive treatment option.

Most people want to avoid surgery if possible. For patients with spinal issues, deciding whether or not surgery is best can be especially confusing because there are many specialists to consult, such as orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, pain specialists, physical therapists and physiatrists.   

Physicians’ opinions often differ due to their experience and specialty. For example, some surgeons treat spinal conditions aggressively, while others prefer a minimally invasive approach. Some surgeons prefer to use the traditional surgical techniques they’re accustomed to, while others perform surgery using the latest innovations and technology.  

Seeking a second opinion is a common practice and for a good reason. Consider the following second opinion statistics: 

Why Get a Second Opinion?

Spinal patients seek second opinions for many reasons, such as the following:

  • To address persistent symptoms: If you’re painful spinal symptoms persist despite having had surgery to ease them, a second opinion may be able to determine other options for pain relief. 
  • To confirm the right diagnosis: If you’re unsure your diagnosis is correct or you have received two conflicting opinions, a second opinion can help you clarify and confirm the right diagnosis and treatment.
  • To seek a less invasive option: If the surgery you’ve been offered is too aggressive for your lifestyle or would keep you out of work too long, a second opinion may reveal a more conservative treatment option. 
  • To determine if you’re a surgery candidate: If your initial provider told you surgery wasn’t an option but you’re still suffering, a second opinion may reveal that your diagnosis is inaccurate or that there are indeed less invasive surgical options available to you.
  • To receive a no-obligation expert opinion: Our second opinion program does not require you to commit to moving forward with our surgeon’s plan. You can explore your options without having to schedule treatment or surgery. 
  • To find peace of mind: If you’re losing sleep at night worrying about making the right decision, a second opinion from our surgeon will put you at ease.
  • To partake in a one-on-one virtual online conversation: Our spine surgeon will work patiently with you to address all of your questions and concerns. 
  • To get the information you need quickly: Scheduling a second opinion with us means you won’t have to wait weeks for an appointment or spend a small fortune to travel to an academic center. You’ll get answers quickly so you can move forward with your treatment as soon as possible — because people in pain shouldn’t have to wait. 
Dr. Abrams consulting patient

Where to Go for Second Opinion Spine Surgery

The Desert Institute for Spine Care (DISC) is an orthopedic spine practice caring for patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona. Our surgeons treat a range of spinal conditions with a dedication to passionate, individualized patient care. 

When you come to DISC for a second opinion on spine surgery related to sciatica, a herniated disc, spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease, you’ll connect with a team of board-certified leaders in ultra minimally invasive spine surgery. Our philosophy is to treat patients as conservatively as possible to restore, revitalize and rejuvenate their active lifestyles. 

We Offer Two Types of Second Opinions

To accommodate our patient’s growing demand for second opinions we have developed the following second opinion programs:

In-Person Second Opinion Consultation: If you’re seeking a second opinion, you can easily arrange an appointment either by giving our office a call or submitting an online request. During your visit, our skilled surgeon will take the time to understand your pain story and thoroughly review all your relevant medical records. Following this, a comprehensive physical examination will be conducted. Subsequently, the surgeon will provide a detailed diagnosis and recommendations, ensuring that all your concerns and questions are addressed.

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Virtual Second Opinion: Gain access to expert review of your medical records, diagnostic images, diagnosis, and treatment plans, all from the comfort of your own home.

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Not local to Phoenix DISC fully supports medical tourism or traveling to receive surgery. We’ve treated patients from all over the world who sought affordability, immediate care, advanced surgical techniques, higher quality care, a reputable surgical facility or all of the above. Whether you live in Arizona, somewhere else in the United States or internationally, the expert care at DISC is available to you.

Get a Second Opinion for Spine Pain at DISC

Get a Second Opinion for Spine Pain at DISC

Your spine pain deserves immediate, expert care, and the fellowship-trained, board-certified surgeons at DISC are qualified and ready to provide it. Reach out to us today to schedule a virtual or in-person appointment for a second opinion on your spinal condition. Our caring providers look forward to giving you a diagnosis and developing a customized, holistic treatment plan to get you back to a fulfilling lifestyle. 

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