Orthopedic Surgeon or Neurosurgeon – Which is Better for Spine Surgery?

While considering spine surgery, one of the most common question that comes to mind is which one to choose, an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon? For majority of spine surgeries, both neurosurgeons and specially trained orthopedic surgeons can be considered. Let us know similarities and differences between the two :

Earlier spine surgery was the primary responsibility of neurosurgeons only but in last 20-25 years with the development in the field of spine surgery, both orthopedic surgeon and neurosurgeon can specialize in spine surgery. Thus for most of the spine surgeries both the surgeons are equally qualified. 

Neurosurgeons

Neurosurgeons are the Medical Doctors or doctors of osteopathic medicine and graduated in a 5-6 year residency program specialized on the surgical treatment of neurological diseases. They are specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of the disorders of spine, brain, spinal cord, nerves,intracranial and intraspinal vasculature. Some neurosurgeons are specialists of brain surgery exclusively.

Orthopedic Surgeons

Orthopedic surgeons are Medical Doctors or Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine who have graduated in a residency program designed for the treatment of musculoskeletal related conditions. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of almost all kinds of bone and joint related disorders such as arthritis, spinal disorders, sports injuries, bone tumors, trauma, total joint replacement and hand injuries and deformities.

Some orthopedic surgeons exclusively take up practice on spine surgery while some on other joint related disorders.

Both orthopedic surgeon and neurosurgeon should have completed fellowship training in order to perform most of spine surgery.

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