Clearing Up Myths About Laser Spine Surgery

Millions of people have back pain. In fact, The National Pain Foundation, reports low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. To feel better, many people look to laser spine surgery, a technique some say can provide immediate relief – even when other options have failed. The advertisements are so convincing that it’s natural to wonder: Does laser spine surgery work? Here, we clear up the myths.

 The Laser Myth in Spine Surgery

Lasers have always connotated cutting edge and precision. It is only natural that introducing this into surgery could be thought of by the public as something that could benefit and enhance procedures. In fact, lasers in certain areas of surgery have been very helpful. For instance, in lipomeningcele surgery, a surgery that removes fatty tissue unnaturally and dangerously pressing or pulling on the spinal cord, the laser is an invaluable tool. For a compelling majority of all spine surgeries, however, the laser has no purpose or role.

Laser Back Surgery vs. Traditional Spine Surgery

The upshot? LASER in my opinion isn’t a viable alternative to traditional low back surgery. In fact, I now have to give the above air quote when I talk about “LASER” spine surgery with my patients. Alternatively, regenerative stem cell and platelet treatments actually seek to improve disc and nerve health. So save your money and consider non-surgical back surgery alternatives.

Laser Disc Decompression for Spinal Stenosis: Does it Work?

As a practicing spine surgeon, I am often asked by patients if their disc decompression surgery can be done with a laser. There is a perception by the general population that lasers are a modern, almost futuristic, up and coming technology. The reality is that lasers have been around for a long time and are almost completely useless when it comes to spine surgery.

Laser Spine Surgery vs. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Laser spine surgery is a controversial topic among spine surgeons. Some believe they improve upon minimally invasive surgery, while others believe traditional techniques are more effective. There are a lot of misconceptions about laser spine surgery, so let’s set the record straight.

Laser Spine Surgery: A Real Business or A Real Scam

Recently there has been a rash of people blogging about a controversial company called the Laser Spine Institute...

Laser Spine Surgery’s Profits Beat Google’s Amid Complaints

Bonnie Balch searched online for a back surgeon and found a pitch she called irresistible: Laser Spine Institute LLC promised to ease her pain and have her out the door in a few hours.

Top neurosurgeons are speaking out against laser spine surgery and explaining why

The term “laser spine surgery” has become very popular on the Internet and in magazine ads. But while the laser has created substantial medical improvements in the field of medicine, this is not in the case for spine surgery.