| How do I get an appointment? |
You call 1-800-227-4599 or 406-455-2971 and our Clinical Navigator will assist you in getting to the right place. |
Do I need a referral? |
No, you just need to place a call to the Spine Institute Clinical Navigator who will make the appropriate referral for you. |
What do I bring to my appointments? |
Any prior x-rays, MRIs, CT Scans, diagnostic testing or medical records that would assist the provider. The Spine Institute Clinical Navigator can assist you in obtaining if necessary. |
What should I expect on my first visit? |
Your initial visit is designed to provide you and your healthcare team the information needed to make critical healthcare decisions. Normally, the initial visit will include, if not already completed, an x-ray, MRI if appropriate, and a consult with a spine surgeon.
Prior to your visit, you will consult with a nurse Clinical Navigator who will review your medical history with you and schedule all appropriate testing and appointments. |
What is minimally invasive spine surgery and how is it different from traditional spine surgery? |
Traditional spine surgery typically requires long incisions in the back. Muscles are cut and separated from the spine to allow access to the spinal anatomy. Minimally invasive spine surgery is performed through small incisions in the back. Surgeons use specialized instruments and navigational tools such as intra-operative x-ray, microscopes and tubular retractors. Like traditional spine surgery, the goal of minimally invasive surgery is to relieve your back and/or leg pain. However, as little muscle tissue as possible should be damaged with minimal invasive surgery. |
Is minimally invasive surgery a new technique? |
No, it is common for many other operations, including: heart surgery, bariatric surgery, total hip replacement, appendectomy and gallbladder removal. Some benefits of minimally invasive surgery are: smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, less surgical blood loss, shorter hospital stay, less postoperative pain medication, and faster return to work and daily activities.
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