Research before trying new procedure

Karen McNew
WSLS
Published: April 23, 2008

Q: My husband has had an MRI and it indicates that he has spinal stenosis in the lumbar region of his spine. According to articles that we have read, the recovery period for conventional surgery to correct this condition is quite lengthy and the results seem to be “up in the air.” According to articles that we have read on the Internet, laser spine surgery is safer, has a much lower recovery time and much better results. Depending on the area of the country, it may be referred to as minimally invasive surgery or arthroscopic surgery.  — Marilyn

A: Marilyn, I have searched all over to get more information about the procedure you inquired about.
I checked with University of Virginia Health System and was told they do not offer it. Also, it is not available at Carilion Clinic. I checked with Cleveland Clinic as well and was told they do not offer it, either.

I did get additional feedback from the Cleveland Clinic regarding the use of arthroscopic surgery as a spine procedure. One of their physicians said through the media contact there to really do your research on the procedure because most hospitals opt not to do it for good reason.
As I prodded further for more details, all I could get was that “efficacy had not been proven.”

If I were you, I would find a good orthopedic surgeon by asking around. Start with your physician. Ask him or her to make some recommendations of local physicians who may be able to help you. Also, word of mouth is always a good way to get some honest feedback from patients about their experience with a physician or hospital. It never hurts to get a second opinion regarding your health care, but from what I have found, the laser procedure may not be one of the recommendations you will easily find.