Spine Surgery in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Spine surgery is considered when a patient’s symptoms, physical examination, imaging findings, and the failure of adequate non-surgical treatment all point toward a structural problem that surgery can reasonably address. Many people with back or neck pain do not need surgery — and a thorough evaluation is the first step in determining whether an operation makes sense for your specific situation.
When to seek urgent evaluation
Progressive weakness in the arms or legs, changes in bladder or bowel function, saddle numbness (loss of sensation in the inner thighs or groin), rapidly worsening leg pain, or new or worsening difficulty walking require prompt medical attention. If you experience any of these, contact your physician or go to the nearest emergency department. These symptoms should not wait for a routine appointment.
Conditions that may lead to spine surgery
Not everyone with these conditions needs an operation. Surgery is typically discussed when non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate relief and imaging confirms a problem that a procedure can address. The following are conditions that, in some patients, may warrant surgical evaluation:
Sciatica
Leg pain, numbness, or weakness caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, often from a herniated disc or stenosis.
Herniated Disc
Disc material pressing on a spinal nerve root, causing arm pain or leg pain, numbness, and weakness.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal causing leg pain, cramping, and difficulty walking — often relieved by sitting or leaning forward.
Cervical Radiculopathy
A pinched nerve in the neck causing pain, numbness, or weakness radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
Cervical Myelopathy
Spinal cord compression in the neck causing balance problems, hand clumsiness, and walking difficulty.
Spondylolisthesis
One vertebra slips forward over another, potentially causing back pain, leg pain, or nerve compression.
Procedures Dr. Greenberg may discuss
The specific procedure recommended depends on your diagnosis, anatomy, symptoms, and goals. Each patient receives a personalized evaluation — there is no single operation that fits everyone. Below are procedures commonly discussed during spine surgery consultations:
Microdiscectomy
Removes the herniated fragment of disc compressing a nerve through a small incision using a microscope.
Lumbar Laminectomy
Removes bone and ligament to create space for nerves compressed by spinal stenosis.
ACDF
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion — removes the damaged disc through the front of the neck and stabilizes the segment.
Cervical Disc Replacement
Preserves motion by replacing the damaged cervical disc with an artificial joint rather than fusing it.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Ultra-minimally invasive camera-assisted procedure through an incision smaller than a centimeter.
Robotic Spinal Fusion
Robotic guidance for precise screw and implant placement during spinal fusion surgery.
Lumbar Fusion (TLIF/PLIF)
Posterior lumbar interbody fusion to stabilize the spine when instability or deformity is present.
Kyphoplasty
Minimally invasive treatment for painful vertebral compression fractures using balloon inflation and bone cement.
Surgery is not always the answer
One of the most important parts of a spine surgery consultation is determining whether surgery is the right next step — or whether additional non-surgical treatment, time, or a different approach is more appropriate. Not every MRI finding requires an operation, and not every patient with back or neck pain is a surgical candidate.
Factors that influence whether surgery is recommended include: how long symptoms have been present, whether non-surgical treatments were adequate and complete, the correlation between your symptoms and what the imaging shows, the presence or absence of progressive neurological changes, and your overall health and personal goals.
Second opinions before spine surgery
Seeking a second opinion before spine surgery is a standard and appropriate part of medical decision-making. It is not a sign of mistrust — it is a way to confirm that the proposed plan is the right one for your specific anatomy, symptoms, and goals. A second opinion can provide peace of mind when the recommendation is confirmed, or reveal an alternative path when it is not.
Dr. Greenberg provides independent second-opinion evaluations for patients who have been told they need spine surgery. The evaluation includes a personal review of your MRI and imaging, a neurological examination, and a candid discussion of whether the proposed surgery is appropriate — and whether any alternatives, including less invasive or motion-preserving options, should be considered.
Fort Wayne office
Greenberg Spine — Marc Greenberg, MD
Fort Wayne is the primary practice location for Greenberg Spine. In-person consultations, imaging review, and surgical planning take place here. Patients from throughout Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio travel to Fort Wayne for specialized spine surgery evaluation.
Frequently asked questions about spine surgery in Fort Wayne
What spine surgeries are offered in Fort Wayne?
Dr. Greenberg offers microdiscectomy, lumbar laminectomy, ACDF, cervical disc replacement, endoscopic spine surgery, robotic-assisted spinal fusion, TLIF/PLIF lumbar fusion, and kyphoplasty. Each patient receives an individualized recommendation based on their imaging, symptoms, exam findings, and personal goals — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
When should I see a spine surgeon?
Consider a spine surgery consultation when you have persistent back or neck pain that has not improved after several weeks of conservative treatment, leg or arm pain with numbness or weakness, difficulty walking more than short distances, or symptoms that interfere with work or daily activities. A consultation does not mean you will need surgery — it is an opportunity to understand your diagnosis and all treatment options.
Do I need surgery for back pain?
Most back pain does not require surgery. The majority of patients improve with non-surgical care including physical therapy, medications, activity modification, and sometimes injections. Surgery is considered when conservative treatment has not provided adequate relief, imaging shows a correctable structural problem, and symptoms are significant enough to affect quality of life. Dr. Greenberg discusses all non-surgical options before surgery is presented as a path forward.
Can I get a second opinion before fusion?
Yes, and it is a common and appropriate step. Fusion is a significant decision that alters spinal mechanics permanently. Dr. Greenberg provides independent second-opinion evaluations that review your imaging, exam findings, and the proposed surgical plan. The goal is to confirm whether fusion is the right path for your specific situation — or whether a decompression-only or motion-preserving alternative may be appropriate.
What should I bring to the visit?
Bring your MRI or CT images on disc or USB (not just the report), any X-rays, radiology reports, a list of treatments you have already tried (physical therapy, injections, medications), current medication list, insurance card, and a written list of your questions. Bringing a family member or friend to help take notes is often helpful. Prior operative reports are essential if you have had spine surgery before.
Explore related resources
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Endoscopic, robotic, and motion-preserving surgical techniques — candidacy, recovery, and FAQ
All Procedures
Complete index of surgical procedures offered by Dr. Greenberg — from endoscopic to fusion
Choosing a Spine Surgeon in Indiana
Evidence-based criteria to help you evaluate any spine surgeon — training, experience, and approach
When Is Spine Surgery Necessary?
A practical guide to understanding when surgery is the right next step — and when it is not
This is general educational information, not medical advice. Symptoms vary by person — a clinical evaluation is the only way to know what’s right for you.