Dr. Mark Valente Answers Your Questions about Back Surgery

Dr. Valente was recently featured in Living Magazine answering some of the most common questions he gets from patients. Read on to get answers from one of the top spine surgeons in Texas! 

Dr. Valente Answers Your Questions

1. What does the road to recovery mean?

“The road to recovery is going to be different for every patient,” said Dr. Valente. “Our goal is always to help patients feel better, and surgery is always the last option.” An individualized road to recovery for each patient might include pain management, chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage, injections and even acupuncture. If surgery becomes necessary, Dr. Valente has many minimally invasive options to pursue as well as traditional spine surgery.

2. Does a previous spine surgery disqualify me from having another spine surgery?

“Absolutely not,” said Dr. Valente. In addition to minimally invasive procedures for herniated disc, stenosis, spondylolisthesis, trauma, compression fractures and degenerative disc disease, Dr. Valente does a great deal of revision surgery for patients who have had spine surgery, but it failed to help them feel better. “Only five percent of spine surgeons are trained to do some of the procedures that I am able to offer my patients.”

3. How much does back surgery cost?

“Every surgical procedure I offer, including minimally invasive surgery, is covered by most major insurance companies,” said Dr. Valente. “We have an on-site insurance and billing specialist to help patients navigate that entire process easily.”

4. What is the recovery time from back surgery?

“Every patient is different but many of our surgeries are done in an out-patient setting, and patients are able to go home that same day and return to work within a week,” said Dr. Valente. With the small incisions of a minimally invasive procedure, muscle fibers, ligaments and tendons are meticulously preserved. There is less operative time, less anesthesia and less blood—each leading to a shorter recovery.

Meet Dr. Valente

To become an expert in the most advanced techniques and procedures in the field of spine surgery, Dr. Valente trained extensively at leading edge institutions throughout the country including University of California in San Diego, Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles and Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.

Dr. Valente is often recognized by patients, colleagues and peers for his communication skills. He attributes his warm, relatable bedside manner to the belief that all patients deserve the utmost attention and respect. “Many spine problems are mechanical and can be explained in a very understandable way,” he said. “I always take the time to relate to my patients and explain things in a way that is easy to understand.”

“Our team is ready to help you,” said Dr. Valente. “If you’re suffering from back pain, don’t wait any longer to get help.” Dr. Valente and his caring staff are experts in minimally invasive surgical techniques, and they’re ready to help you now.

Find out more for yourself.  Meet Dr. Valente in person by scheduling an appointment right now.

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