Seattle Minimally Invasive Spine Center

Going the Extra Mile for Patients

Our Seattle Minimally Invasive Spine Center (SMISC) is an integral part of ProOrtho. The specialists at SMISC are leaders in both non-operative spinal pain treatments as well as state-of-the-art minimally invasive spine surgery. More than 95% of all spinal operations performed at the SMISC are minimally invasive surgeries.

The physicians at ProOrtho meet on a regular basis to have a passionate debate about the best way to treat complex spinal problems.

Why do we meet? Because spine problems are so complicated we believe they demand a team of spine experts to develop the best treatment plans. So, we focus some of the best minds in the field on several of our most complicated cases, to be 100% sure we’re giving each patient the best treatment possible.

This is a great example of our philosophy of care. We believe that excellent treatment is always a result of “going the extra mile” for patients. This philosophy is reflected in our commitment to extensive training, constant research, and clear communication between the medical team and the patient.

Extensive Training

Each physician in our team has trained in a leading Spine Fellowship program. After we each finished our medical residency programs, we then chose to complete at least one extra year studying spine care under the direction of one of the leaders in the field. This “extra mile” of training provides invaluable experience and insight. But training doesn’t finish after a Fellowship! We are constantly updating our skills at courses, and we even train other surgeons around the world, to ensure that our skills remain sharp and up-to-date.

Constant Research

It seems that every month a new way to treat spine problems is announced. You’ve probably come across a few such claims on the Internet. Some of these claims have merit, but others don’t. We believe the best way to separate the true advances from the “hype” is to constantly research and test new techniques. Only when a technique’s safety and efficacy is truly proven to the satisfaction of our entire team will we allow it to be introduced into our operating rooms. In addition, we are committed to a type of research that many other practices simply don’t have time for: outcome studies. We attempt to review the long-term results of each patient we treat. Then, using sophisticated research tools, we analyze our results and identify which treatments perform best and how we can continue to improve. This commitment to constant improvement keeps our patients in safe hands.

Patient – Physician Communication

For a spine problem to be treated successfully it is essential that the patient is an active part of the treatment and recovery process. As a result, we spend a lot of time with our patients explaining and answering questions about their condition, treatment options, and recovery.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Many of our patients never need surgery, but for those who do, we perform over 95% of our spine surgeries using minimally invasive techniques.

So what does that mean for you and your spinal condition? It means smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery and improved bodily movement and function.

Not only are our SMISC surgeons leaders in the field of spinal surgery, they are also innovators in performing minimally invasive spine surgery. As members of many internationally recognized spine societies, our physicians teach their colleagues throughout the world the latest techniques in spinal surgery. Together, we continue to advance the techniques of minimally invasive spine surgery and are proud to offer our patients with the most advanced and highest level of care.

Of course the philosophy of care outlined above is not “rocket science.” However, putting the philosophy into practice truly sets us apart from many other practices. Few others can offer the commitment to training, research and communication that we offer. If you like what you’ve read about us, we hope you’ll make an appointment to see us, and together we can begin the process of treating your back or neck problem.

Our specialties

• Comprehensive adult and pediatric spine care
• Cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine
• Scoliosis of the spine and degenerative conditions
• Minimally invasive spine surgery