FAQ
FAQ: Our Innovative Procedures for Herniated Disc Problems, Spinal Stenosis Treatment & Much More
Below is a list of frequently asked questions. Please review the list below and see if your question has been answered. More general questions may be answered on our Things You Should Know page.
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What is minimally invasive spine surgery?
Minimally invasive spine surgery uses specialized imaging equipment and micro instruments to treat conditions of the spine.
It is performed through very small incisions that minimize the amount of surgery to the soft tissues around the spine.
Minimally invasive spinal surgery is typically performed with IV sedation.
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What are the advantages of minimally invasive spine surgery?
The advantages of minimally invasive spine surgery are shorter recovery time, reduced pain after surgery, no hospital stay and a much smaller scar.
The result is gentle, yet highly effective, procedures that are performed on an out-patient basis.
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What are the risks of minimally invasive spine surgery?
Risks associated with minimally invasive spine surgery are low in experienced hands. They include infection, scar tissue formation, spinal fluid leak and nerve injury. Meticulous attention to detail and technique are the keys to low complications.
It is also extremely important that your spine surgeon has experience in the management of all potential complications that may arise. In fact, there is probably no single factor that is more important when choosing your surgeon.
In the unlikely event that a complication should arise, a competent spine surgeon can guide patients safely through this. You do not want to find out after the procedure that your minimally invasive spine surgeon cannot manage a post-operative complication or doesn't have hospital privileges.
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Why should I choose Celling Treatment Centers?
At Celling Treatment Centers we have pioneered the best of minimally invasive spine surgery with the science of regenerative medicine.
We perform minimally invasive spine surgery full-time, in all age groups, and only use board-certified, fellowship-trained spine surgeons.
Many practices claim to perform minimally invasive spine surgery but actually practice less invasive methods of spinal fusion or claim a patient's findings are too difficult for minimally invasive spine surgery. This would not be typical of an experienced minimally invasive spine surgeon.
At Celling Treatment Centers, we maintain a refuse-to-fuse philosophy and will discuss all non-fusion strategies with each patient.
We combine our procedures with the stem cell therapy to reduce inflammation and provide your body with every opportunity to heal quickly.
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Why don't more surgeons perform minimally invasive spine surgery?
The simple truth is that minimally invasive spine surgery is difficult for many surgeons to master.
Minimally invasive techniques require the keen ability to visualize only portions of the spine through small imaging cameras rather than the entire spine as in open surgery. This skill is one of the most difficult to master.
It begins with a solid foundation in biomechanics and years of experience in traditional open spine surgery including the managment of any/all types of complications.
The minimally invasive spine surgeon must then perform each of the many techniques - arthroscopic, endoscopic, laser-assisted, microscopic and percutaneous procedures - on numerous patients to establish a basic level of competency.
The result is a very steep learning curve with few surgeons mastering the techniques.
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How soon after minimally invasive spine surgery can I return to normal activities?
Most patients return to normal activities in 1-2 weeks. Practices claiming patients may return sooner are not realistic.
Although minimally invasive spine procedures are gentle and performed on an out-patient basis, there is still some soreness that may linger for a week or so. We recommend that patients be off work for 1-2 weeks so they may return at a reasonable pace.
The goal is a great outcome. Returning to normal activities too soon may unnecessarily perpetuate any remaining soreness.
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Can minimally invasive spine surgery relieve my spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis can be relieved in about an hour and most patients experience immediate relief of leg symptoms.
The surgery is performed on an out-patient basis and patients typically report a rapid increase in the distance they can walk as well as decrease in back pain.
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What if I have already had spinal surgery?
One of the great advantages of minimally invasive spine surgery is that areas of compression and persistent or recurrent pain can be addressed without having to take down a fusion or remove all of the scar tissue. Revision of a previously operated spine is ideally suited for competent minimally invasive spine surgery.
We begin with diagnostic testing to determine the source of pain and then outline a minimally invasive and regenerative strategy individualized for each patient.
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What if I have already had laser spine surgery?
If you had laser spine surgery resulting in removal of one or both facet joints, i.e., a facetectomy, we can help.
Because of the complex biomechanics of the spine after facetectomy, these patients are best treated by a fellowship-trained spine surgeon with comprehensive (minimally invasive, traditional open and revision) spine experience. Surgeon awareness of past trends that have failed, the limits of surgery and realistic expectations are critical to an optimum outcome.
At Celling Treatment Centers, we specialize in ALL types of minimally invasive spinal surgery including complex revision surgery. We will gladly review your imaging studies at no cost or obligation and help you get back on the road to recovery.
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Do you offer other treatments besides minimally invasive spine surgery?
Celling Treatment Centers is the market leader in the orthopedic application of stem cells.
This includes treatments for osteoarthritis, chronic tendon and ligament injuries, tennis elbow, whiplash, sports injuries, major joint sprains, facet syndrome and more.
If you would like to know if there is a regenerative medicine option available for you, please contact us.
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Can stem cells help my low back pain?
Stem cell therapy for back pain is intended for those who have failed conventional treatments or are seeking a non-fusion alternative. This procedure can also combine the cutting-edge effects of laser spine surgery with the regenerative nature of stem cells to provide a minimally invasive method of treating chronic back pain.
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Is stem cell treatment available for arthritis pain?
Degenerative arthritis decreases the amount of cartilage on the bones resulting in stiffness and pain. Concentrated stem cells have the potential to differentiate into cells that are capable of regenerating damaged tissue, for example cartilage. They also have a significant anti-inflammatory response that may quickly decrease the pain associated with arthritis. Stem cell treatments use the self-healing potential of a patient's own body to optimize regeneration or repair.
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Where is the treatment performed?
All treatments are performed in Austin, Texas.
Our innovative treatments are not offered anywhere else in the United States at this time. Additional locations in Europe and the UAE are coming.
We use sister sites to increase visibility in markets that are underserved by experienced endoscopic laser spine surgeons:
www.advancedlaserspinesurgery.com
www.dallaslaserspinesurgery.com
www.herniated-disc.co
www.houstonlaserspine.com
www.lowbackpain-treatment.com
www.spinalstenosis-treatment.com
www.cervicaldiscregeneration.com
www.thoracicdiscregeneration.com
www.lumbardiscregeneration.com
www.regenadisc.com
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How much does it cost?
At CELLING TREATMENT CENTERS, we are out-of-network for all plans and some fees will be incurred.
We utilize local in-network hospitals and surgery centers to reduce costs significantly. This allow patients to utilize their insurance benefits to cover facility fees.
Our fees vary depending upon the treatment required and most are performed on an out-patient basis with no overnight stay in the hospital required.
Financing may be available for any out-of-network expenses.
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Does the price include flights and hotel?
No. The price does not include travel expenses such as air fares, meals, car rental or hotels.
Read more . . . - How long will I be in Austin?
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Will I be hospitalized?
No. Most of our laser and stem cell procedures are performed on an out-patient basis. However, hospitalization is available for those with more complex problems.
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How does stem cell therapy work?
Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different types of cells. They serve as a repair system for the body to repair and regenerate damaged cells. Stem cell therapy harnesses this function by applying concentrated stem cells directly into the damaged tissue or joint. This has the potential to reduce inflammation and releases chemicals that attract additional regenerative cells.
Most scientists agree that stem cell research has great potential and could revolutionize the study and treatment of diseases and injuries. At Celling Treatment Centers, we recommend patients exhaust conventional methods of treatment before cell therapy as many conditions will respond to conventional treatment methods.
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Are there ethical concerns surrounding adult stem cell therapy?
Celling Treatment Centers does not utilize embryonic stem cells. All of our treatment protocols use adult stem cells concentrated from the patient's own body. There are no ethical or moral concerns.
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How is the bone marrow obtained?
Approximately 200 ml of bone marrow is collected from the hip bone though a small incision using a small needle under local anesthesia. See Stem Cell Treatment Process for more information.
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Does it hurt?
Patients may feel a small amount of temporary discomfort. This should resolve in 24-48 hours. You may have a small bruise over the area. This will resolve naturally.
Read more . . . - How long does bone marrow collection usually take?
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What is bone marrow? Why does it contain stem cells?
Bone marrow is specialized tissue found in the flat bones of our body. For example, the pelvic bones around our hips. The primary function of bone marrow is to produce blood cells including stem cells. These stem cells can divide, differentiate into other types of cells, and facilitate tissue regeneration.
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How many stem cells will I receive?
It is impossible to predict how many stem cells a patient will receive as the amount varies from patient to patient. However, our protocols are designed to maximize each patient's stem cell concentrations.
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What if I don't get enough stem cells?
The number of stem cells found in the bone marrow depends on many factors including patient age and overall health.
In the event that a patient's response is suboptimal, the procedure can be repeated at a later date.
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How are the stem cells implanted?
The method of stem cell implantation will depend on the condition. There are four different ways of administering stem cells:
- Direct injection into the disc or joint
- Direct injection into a tendon or ligament
- Direct injection in combination with an advanced LASER treatment
- Direct injection in combination during one of our BioSurgery procedures
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What are the risks associated with stem cell therapy?
Because the stem cells are from the patient, there is no risk of rejection. However, all surgery includes certain risks, including the typical risks from anesthesia, infection, pain, bleeding, and nerve or wound healing problems. The risks and benefits will be discussed in detail with the surgeon involved in your care.
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How do I know if I am a candidate?
After completing our patient history form and reviewing your MRI or imaging studies, you will be contacted by the Center with a specific recommendation. Many of the conditions we treat are found on the Common Conditions page.
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What is a typical treatment schedule?
Typically, patients spend 3-5 days in Austin. The patient is evaluated by the surgeon on day 1 of our process. Day 2 includes the procedure or surgery. The 3rd day of our process includes a post-operative visit with the surgeon and review of the post-operative care plan.
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Does Celling Treatment Centers assist patients with booking flights and hotels?
Celling Treatment Centers provides listings of local hotels, restaurants and car rental services for your convenience.
For out-of-town patients, the Center will provide your transportation to and from the surgery center on the day of the procedure.
For those patients requiring concierge service, our staff can assist with your specific itinerary. Austin is easily accessed by private plane at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
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What is the best way to get to Austin?
Austin, Texas is located in central Texas and is easily accessed by car: Dallas 180 miles; Houston 145 miles; San Antonio 75 miles.
Air travel: Phoenix/Scottsdale 2 hours; Los Angeles 3 hours; Chicago 3 hours; Orlando 4 hours; Washington DC 5 hours; New York 6 hours.
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How can I get from the airport to my hotel and then to the clinic and back?
Major rental car companies are found at the Austin-Bergstrom airport.
Super Shuttle also provides low-cost transportation to/from local hotels.
Please contact us, if you would like us to arrange for limousine service.
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Are meals expensive?
Austin, Texas is one of the most vibrant cities in the United States. Known for its live music and barbeque, it is also the state's Capital and home of the Texas Longhorns football team. Restaurant prices in Austin are comparable to prices in other large cities.
www.austin360.com
www.ci.austin.tx.us/library/ea_index.htm
www.austintexas.org
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What is the weather like?
Austin in located in central Texas and has hot summers and mild winters.
Check out our weather today.
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How do I pay for treatment?
Several payment options are available including major credit card, cashier's check, wire transfer and cash.
Financing for Canadian citizens may be available through, www.medicard.com.
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What hotels are located near the surgery center?
The Driskill Hotel
604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701
(800) 252-9367
(512) 474-5911
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
98 San Jacinto Boulevard, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 478-4500
Hilton Austin
500 East 4th Street, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 482-8000
InterContinental Stephen F Austin Hotel
701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 457-8800
Barton Creek Resort & Spa
8212 Barton Club Drive, Austin, TX 78735-1406
(512) 329-4000
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What hotels are located near the Center?
Extended Stay Deluxe Austin - Arboretum - North
2700 Gracy Farms Lane, Austin, TX 78758
(512) 833-0898
Hilton Garden Inn Austin NW/Arboretum
11617 Research Boulevard, Austin, TX 78759
(512) 241-1600
Hyatt Place - Austin/Arboretum
3612 Tudor Boulevard, Austin, TX 78759
(512) 231-8491
Austin Marriott North Hotel
2600 La Frontera Boulevard, Round Rock, TX 78681
(512) 733-6767
Homewood Suites - Hilton
2201 South Mays, Round Rock, TX 78664
(512) 341-9200
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How should someone who is considering spine surgery go about choosing the right surgeon for their needs?
When selecting your spine surgeon, it is important to determine if your surgeon is A) board-certified and B) fellowship-trained in SPINE SURGERY.
BOARD CERTIFICATION
The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), and the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), are recognized as the "gold standard" for physician certification.
Orthopedic surgeons should be board certified by either:
American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS)
American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery (AOBOS)
Neurosurgeons should be board certified by either:
American Board of Neurologic Surgery (ABNS)
American Osteopathic Board of Neurological Surgery (AOBNS)
These organizations set the standard for certification. Surgeon members of these boards voluntarily participate in lifelong learning to keep their skills and knowledge current.
FELLOWSHIP TRAINING in SPINE SURGERY
Your spine surgeon should also have formal university training in Spine Surgery. University training assures that the experience is an educational experience from leaders in the field of Spinal Surgery and that your surgeon is competent to handle any complication that may arise.
The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) is responsible for the accreditation of post-MD medical training programs within the United States.
If your spine surgeon is not fellowship trained in spine surgery at a leading university, you may want to consider the answers to the following questions:
- Has the surgeon completed the appropriate residency requirements?
- Is the surgeon qualified to sit for an ABMS or AOA orthopedic board examination?
- Did the surgeon fail recognized board examinations?
- Was the surgeon not accepted into a spine surgery fellowship?
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What is a D.O.?
A D.O. is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine.
Osteopathic Medicine is the branch of medicine based on the philosophy that the physician's primary role is to help facilitate the human body's inherent ability to heal itself. Physicians who graduate from osteopathic medical school do so with a doctor in osteopathic medicine and are often referred to as "osteopathic physicians".
To read more, please visit:
http://www.osteopathic.org/index.cfm?PageID=ado_whatis
http://arthritis.webmd.com/tc/osteopathy-topic-overview
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What is the difference between a D.O. and an M.D.?
M.D. - Doctor of Medicine - has gone through 4 years of college, then 4 years of medical school, then internship, and then usually residency, then practice. This person is a licensed physician able to practice medicine and surgery in all 50 states.
D.O. - Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine - has gone through 4 years of college, then 4 years of osteopathic medical school, then internship, residency, then independent practice. This person is a licensed physician able to practice medicine and surgery in all 50 states.
In addition to general medicine education (the same as M.D.s), D.O.s have several hundred added hours of training in the musculoskeletal system and learn manipulation. Some osteopathic physicians specialize in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine - however, most specialize in a medical or surgical field and may or may not incorporate manipulation into their practice.
From: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_difference_between_a_DO_and_an_MD
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