Scheduled for Surgery? Why a Second Opinion Could Change Your Outcome

Written By Gene Katsevman

If you’ve been told you need spine or nerve surgery, it may feel like the plan is already set. But modern spine care has evolved rapidly—and many patients are still being offered older, more invasive approaches without being told about newer, more precise options.

At Neuroscience and Spine Associates, Dr. Gene Katsevman (Florida Spine Surgeon) follows one core philosophy:

Minimal intervention. Maximal results.

A second opinion can ensure your surgery is custom-built for your body, not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Why Getting a Second Opinion Before Surgery Matters

Many patients are scheduled for spine surgeries that may be more aggressive than necessary—or planned without the benefit of today’s advanced technology.

A second opinion can help:

  • Confirm the diagnosis

  • Identify minimally invasive or motion-preserving options

  • Reduce unnecessary fusion or tissue damage

  • Ensure surgery is planned with precision and modern tools

There’s no reason to kill a fly with a bazooka when a tailored approach exists.

ACDF vs Artificial Disc Replacement (ACDA)

Patients with cervical disc disease are often told they need an ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion). While fusion is sometimes appropriate, it permanently limits motion at that level.

In the right candidate, cervical artificial disc replacement (ACDA) may:

  • Preserve natural neck movement

  • Reduce stress on adjacent levels

  • Lower the risk of future degeneration

  • Allow a faster return to normal activity

A second opinion can determine whether disc replacement is an option for you.

Multi-Level Laminectomy Without the Large Incision

Traditional open laminectomy often involves large incisions, muscle stripping, and prolonged recovery—especially for multiple levels.

With Dr. Katsevman, many patients can undergo minimally invasive laminectomy, even at two or three levels, through an incision about the size of a quarter.

Advanced Precision Tools

In select cases, ultrasonic surgical instruments are used to:

  • Create more precise bone cuts

  • Reduce bleeding

  • Minimize trauma to surrounding tissues

This results in safer surgery and faster recovery.

Lumbar Fusion: Precision, Alignment, and Technology Matter

Lumbar fusion can be highly effective—but how it’s planned and executed matters just as much as whether it’s done.

Fusion Should Be Personalized to Your Body

If you’re considering lumbar fusion, your surgeon should be using:

  • Advanced imaging and measurements

  • Customized planning for interbody cages and rods

  • Careful selection of sizes, shapes, and angles

These factors are critical for restoring proper spinal alignment, balance, and long-term comfort.

EOS EDGE: Planning the Perfect Alignment

Dr. Katsevman utilizes EOS EDGE, a cutting-edge imaging system that provides:

  • Full-body, weight-bearing X-rays

  • Significantly less radiation than traditional imaging

  • Highly accurate assessment of your overall spinal alignment

Specialized software then measures key angles and parameters to plan the optimal surgical correction—before you ever enter the operating room.

This level of detail matters.
Not all surgeons take alignment planning this far—but it can make the difference between a good outcome and a great one.

Fusion Alternatives Worth Exploring

Lumbar fusion should never be the default solution.

Depending on your condition, alternatives may include:

  • Minimally invasive decompression

  • Lumbar disc replacement

  • TOPS™ dynamic stabilization, which preserves motion

A second opinion helps ensure fusion is truly necessary.

When Fusion Is Necessary: Robotics and Navigation

If fusion is the best option, Dr. Katsevman always utilizes:

  • Real-time spinal navigation

  • Robotic-assisted technology

This enhances:

  • Safety

  • Accuracy of hardware placement

  • Consistency and long-term results

Minimally Invasive Discectomy—With Added Protection

For patients undergoing minimally invasive lumbar discectomy, an additional technology may be available:

Barricaid® Annular Closure Device

Barricaid can:

  • Reduce the risk of disc reherniation

  • Preserve disc height

  • Lower the chance of repeat surgery

Not every patient qualifies—but a second opinion can determine if this option is right for you.

Carpal Tunnel Surgery: Old Way vs New Way

Many patients with carpal tunnel syndrome are still offered traditional open surgery involving a large incision in the palm.

Dr Katsevman performs a:

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release

This modern approach:

  • Uses a tiny incision at the wrist

  • Minimizes palm pain

  • Speeds recovery

  • Allows faster return to daily activities

Same problem. Smarter solution.

Personalized Surgery Using the Latest Technology

Every spine—and every patient—is different.

Dr. Katsevman emphasizes:

  • Precision over aggression

  • Motion preservation whenever possible

  • Minimally invasive approaches

  • Leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve outcomes

  • Use of Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) and/or Bone Marrow Aspirate (BMA) for quicker recovery and healing

The goal isn’t just fixing an MRI—it’s getting you back to living a full, healthy life.

Considering a Second Opinion in Naples or Fort Myers?

If you’re already scheduled for surgery—or want reassurance that you’re choosing the best option—a second opinion can be invaluable.

📍 Serving Naples and Fort Myers, Florida
👨‍⚕️ Fellowship-trained, minimally invasive spine surgeon
🌐 Learn more at FloridaSpineSurgeon.org

Minimal intervention. Maximal results.

Gene Katsevman
Next

Understanding Lumbar Fusion: Five Approaches for Interbody (Spacer) Placement