Back and spine problems can be confusing to address. Patients often struggle to decide whether to see a neurosurgeon, an orthopedic surgeon, or another specialist. Experts at Mayo Clinic advise that the first step is securing the right diagnosis.
Spine conditions frequently span multiple medical specialties. Benjamin Elder, M.D., Ph.D., a neurosurgeon, and Mel Helgeson, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon, stress the need for thorough evaluations involving several clinicians.
Coordinated care for clearer answers
At Mayo Clinic Spine Centers in Arizona, Florida, Rochester, and Northwest Wisconsin, patients receive assessments from specialists in neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, neurology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, pain medicine, and other areas. This collaborative approach aims to identify what is driving a patient’s symptoms and determine the most appropriate path forward.
“Our model of care removes any bias that might drive spinal treatment,” Dr. Helgeson says. “We can communicate with other professionals on the team and focus on doing what is right for each individual patient.” That broader perspective can be particularly important because symptoms that seem to stem from the spine may occur alongside neurological or other medical problems.
Specialists review medical records, imaging, and coordinate additional testing or consultations as needed. Patients no longer need to select the appropriate specialty themselves. Instead, a coordinated evaluation brings together the expertise needed for full diagnosis and treatment planning.
Tailored treatment plans
“We generally first determine the least invasive option that will provide a solution to patients and then develop treatment plans in coordination with their wishes,” Dr. Elder says. Treatment may involve rehabilitation, pain management, or other nonsurgical methods. When surgery is appropriate, neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons collaborate with other specialists to determine the approach that best fits the patient’s condition and needs.
Some patients may need additional medical intervention before surgery, such as improving bone health. Mayo Clinic offers one of the most advanced programs in preoperative optimization and bone health.
Drs. Elder and Helgeson highlight the significance of a care team capable of providing diverse options beyond a single procedure or specialty. Helgeson says.
The goal is to help individuals restore function and quality of life. “Spinal conditions are complex, and we always put the needs of the patient first,” Dr. Helgeson says. “The goal is to take people from a place of significant pain and dysfunction and return them to as normal a quality of life as we can.” Drs. Elder and Helgeson are available for interviews.