Recovery & Tips

How to Choose a Spine Surgeon: Orthopedic vs Neurosurgeon

Spine surgery is performed by orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons. Learn the differences and how to choose the right one.

Two Types

Orthopedic Spine Surgeons: 5-year ortho residency + spine fellowship. Experts in deformity, fusion, reconstruction. Neurosurgeons: 7-year neuro residency + optional spine fellowship. Experts in decompression, tumors, complex revision. Both equally qualified for most procedures.

Certification

Verify ABOS (ortho) or ABNS (neuro) certification at certificationmatters.org.

Volume

Ask how many of your specific procedure they do per year. High-volume spine surgeons have better outcomes.

Get a Second Opinion

Spine surgery has the highest second-opinion disagreement rate of any specialty. Always get at least 2 opinions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Orthopedic or neurosurgeon for spine?

Neither is inherently better. Choose based on experience with your condition, volume, and fellowship training.

Should I get a second opinion?

Absolutely. This is the one specialty where second opinions most often change the treatment plan.

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