Lasik back surgery

Laser back surgery is a big TV advertiser. Checking the website "reviews", I get the idea that "success" is a 50-50 thing....like most other things medical.

Asking a "conventional" ortho surgeon about it....he indicated it was a 'scam"...and that I just checked off as a "traditional vs. something new" item.

If it works for you....great. If not...what can I say? Oh...and DARSBEN1 has a point: The Philadelphia Laser Spine Institute is not on my "preferred provider listing". That means I would pay much more than if it was....but 15 grand? Up front? Most likely the same category as hearing aids. Bummer.

1978 had a roof collapse while I was on ridge.
Bugling discs L4/L5.
Lived with it until 1985 when I just couldn't take it any longer and was eating Vicodin like a bag of Skittles
Had put it off for so long due to typical surgery at that time....fusing vertebrates

Went to a neurologist that preformed the surgery
Woke up with small incision (about 2" long......10 stitches)

I was up and cruising the hospital halls that afternoon 3 day stay (went home afternoon 3rd day)
No sitting for 5 days. Laying flat or standing/walking OK
10 days later went back to work

That was 1985........2017 has GOT to be BETTER

My wife had Laser surgery at Laser Spine institute in 2011. It was a success. NOT COVERED by most insurance.
About $15,000 cash up front.

I would pay again.
PM me if you want to email questions or talk on phone and I will respond.
There are alternatives that are a little more invasive but covered by medicare and/or private insurance.

It's laser surgery. Lasik is on the eyes.

Whether or not it will work for you depends completely on the details of your problems. Like any other specialized technique, success is very dependent on the skill of the surgeon.

I would urge you to take all less drastic steps before considering surgery of any kind, and any ethical doctor will do the same. Physical therapy is a GREAT help to back problems, if you will go to therapy AND do your excercises diligently.

I've been doing stretch and strengthening exercises daily for 4 years, and have very little pain, although my spine x-rays look like I shouldn't be able to walk.