Laser Spine Surgery: Truth vs. Myth

Millions of people around the world develop back problems every year, leading to disability. Thankfully, technological advances have brought about an increase in the number of options people have for treatment.

Minimally invasive spine surgery is one such procedure with quite a few misconceptions surrounding the surgery, especially on the topic of endoscopic laser spine surgery. In order to dispel these (unfounded) rumors, let’s take a look at some of these myths and set the record straight.

1- The Procedure is Expensive

The opponents of endoscopic laser spine surgery (ELSS) will often cite costs as a reason to avoid it, coupled with the claim that insurance companies do not provide coverage for the method. This may have been true in the technology’s early years but today financing an ELSS is more affordable than ever before.

At Laser Spine Center of Chicago we work with several insurance companies and provide alternate payment options so finance is the last thing on any patient’s mind.

2- It’s All about the Laser

Don’t let the word “laser” detract you from the fact that at the end of the day the procedure is still a surgery. While the laser is an incredibly effective tool for assistance with the surgery, it is ultimately the surgeon’s experience that dictates how the surgery goes.

Lasers are only capable of assisting so far as soft tissue is concerned. So any time a bone or bone fragments need removal, your surgeon will need to make use more traditional surgical tools.

3- Long Recovery Times

There’s no denying that unlike completely non-invasive methods like Stem Cell or Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment, ELSS has a long recovery time. But in comparison to traditional open back surgical operations where recovery can take anywhere from 6 months up to even 2 years, laser surgery has a much shorter downtime.

Patients can usually return to their lives within a maximum of 12 weeks, barring any unforeseen complications.

4- Lasers Are the Ultimate Solution

Contrary to this popular belief, laser surgery is not the final solution for people exhibiting resistance to other methods. For such cases there are also other equally effective methods that can be resorted to such as the Stem Cell or PRP methods we mentioned earlier. Both are opted for by a large percentage of patients wishing for a non-surgical resolution to their conditions.

If you or a loved one is suffering from back pain and traditional medicine has failed you so far, call us at 708-966-8000 today! Consult with our expert surgeons and get the best course of treatment possible.