If you’re facing spine surgery, choosing the right specialist is critical. From minimally invasive procedures to complex spinal reconstructions, here’s what to know about top-rated spine surgeons in the U.S. — and how to evaluate their experience, credentials, and patient outcomes.
What Makes a Great Spine Surgeon?
A top spine surgeon is usually board-certified, fellowship-trained, and experienced in both traditional and minimally invasive procedures. They specialize in spinal care and focus exclusively on treating conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis.
Conditions Commonly Treated
Top spine surgeons often treat a range of spinal disorders, including degenerative disc disease, spinal fractures, pinched nerves, and spinal tumors. Their treatment plans may involve surgical and non-surgical methods tailored to each patient's unique condition.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing
Before committing to surgery, ask the surgeon about their experience with your specific condition, the number of similar procedures they’ve performed, expected recovery time, and what outcomes you can realistically expect based on your health profile.
Where to Start Your Search
Begin by reviewing hospital rankings, physician directories, and patient testimonials. You can also consult with your primary care doctor for a referral or use professional associations like the North American Spine Society to identify reputable specialists.