What should I bring to my first spine appointment?

Bring the actual MRI or CT images when possible, the radiology reports, a current medication list, a summary of treatments already tried, prior operative reports, and the questions you want answered.

Do I need a referral?

Referral requirements vary by insurance plan and circumstance. Confirm the requirement with your health plan and the office before the visit.

Does a consultation mean I will need surgery?

No. A consultation is an evaluation of the diagnosis and options. Many spine conditions are treated without surgery.

What does minimally invasive spine surgery mean?

Minimally invasive techniques use smaller working corridors when they can safely accomplish the surgical goal. The appropriate approach depends on the diagnosis, anatomy, and operation; access size alone does not determine postoperative pain or the pace of recovery.

Patient Resources | Greenberg Spine Fort Wayne

Prepare for a Greenberg Spine visit by bringing the actual imaging, reports, medication list, prior treatment history, and any proposed surgical plan. This page also links to forms, insurance guidance, patient education, and appointment requests.

Plan Your Visit

Greenberg Spine is now open in Fort Wayne. The office is located at Orthopaedics Northeast, 11136 Parkview Circle Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46845. Call (260) 484-8551 or use the contact-only appointment request, and the office will follow up about availability and next steps.

Phone: (260) 484-1400
Office phone hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; patient visits are by appointment
Directions: Fort Wayne office information
Request: New-patient appointment request

What to Bring

The actual MRI or CT images on disc or USB when available, not only the written report
X-rays and radiology reports
A current medication list
A summary of physical therapy, medications, injections, and other treatment already tried
Prior operative reports if you have had spine surgery
Any proposed surgical plan you want reviewed
A written list of your questions

Do not send symptoms, diagnoses, imaging, or other medical details through a public website form. The office will provide secure instructions when records are needed.

What the Evaluation Covers

A spine consultation is intended to clarify the diagnosis, determine whether the imaging matches the symptoms and examination, review prior treatment, and explain reasonable next steps. Those steps may include continued nonsurgical care, additional testing, an injection, a targeted procedure, surgery, or no immediate intervention.

Technology in Service of the Plan

Endoscopy, navigation, and robotics are tools—not diagnoses or outcome predictors. Endoscopic techniques can provide camera-assisted visualization through a narrow working channel. Computer-assisted navigation and robotic guidance can support planning and implant placement during selected procedures. Whether either tool is useful depends on the operation and anatomy.

Forms, Insurance, and Costs

Learn Before You Decide

Progressive arm or leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, saddle numbness, rapidly worsening balance, or other new severe neurologic symptoms require urgent evaluation. This website is not an emergency service; call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department when appropriate.

This is general educational information, not medical advice. A clinical evaluation is the only way to know what’s right for you.

Patient Resources