Spine surgery

Surgical treatments for back or neck pain provided by our team of expert spine surgeons.

Make an appointment Find a specialist Find a location

Spine surgery

Surgical treatments for back or neck pain provided by our team of expert spine surgeons.

Make an appointment Find a specialist Find a location

Spine surgery at UW Medicine

Sometimes, surgery is your best option to treat a spine condition, especially when nonsurgical treatment isn’t working. At UW Medicine you can have peace of mind, knowing you’ll receive care from expert surgeons. Our team is trained in the most advanced procedures and technology, including robotic-assisted procedures, minimally invasive techniques and endoscopic spine surgery. From diagnosis to treatment, we’ve got your back.  

What is a spine surgeon? 

Spine surgeons are doctors that specialize in the treatment of conditions related to the spine. Spine surgeons can be trained in orthopedic or neurological surgery. To become a spine surgeon, both types of specialists receive advanced training in a variety of similar surgical procedures. Because of this, most surgeries are performed by either specialty.  

Our orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons are part of the region’s only complex Level I trauma center. That means our team has experts for every type of condition. We’ll match you with the surgeon who’s the right fit for your condition to provide the best possible care. 

Meet our featured spine surgeons

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Haitao Zhou, MD

Dr. Zhou is a skilled spine surgeon at Harborview and helps patients with a variety of conditions, including cervical and lumbar disc problems.

MEET DR. ZHOU
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Mahesh Karandikar, MD

As a spine surgeon, Dr. Karandikar treats simple to complex spine issues, including disc degeneration and radiculopathy (pinching of the nerves at the root).

MEET DR. KARANDIKAR
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Robert H. Bonow, MD

Dr. Bonow is a spine surgeon who brings the latest evidence-based care to each and every patient.

MEET DR. BONOW
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See all spine surgeons

MEET THE TEAM

Diagnosing spine conditions 

Our spine surgeons use a wide range of imaging to assist in diagnosing spine conditions, including:  

  • X-ray – Produces images of bones of the spine  
  • Computed tomography (CT) – Best for imaging the bones of the spine 
  • CT myelography – Uses CT technology and contrast dye to evaluate for compression of spinal cord and nerves 
  • Electrodiagnostic testing and electromyography (EMG) – Measures the electrical activity in nerves and muscles 
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – Creates images of your spine that allow for better definition of nerves, spinal cord and soft tissues  

Our radiologists are board certified and specialize in neuroradiology. That means they have advanced training to examine your test results and accurately diagnose spine conditions.

Surgical spine services

Our goal is always to use the least invasive techniques required to get you back as quickly as possible to the activities you love. You can count on your surgeon to: 

  • Take the time to listen and answer questions 
  • Thoroughly investigate the cause of your symptoms 
  • Partner with you to develop a care plan tailored to your needs 

The following are some of the most common types of surgical procedures we offer.

Robotic-assisted surgery

Our surgeons are skilled at using high-tech robotic-assisted surgery techniques to provide even more precision and safety. The surgeon controls the technology at all times and customizes the surgery to provide the best care possible.

For more information, visit the Robotic-Assisted Surgery page »

Minimally invasive surgical techniques 

Minimally invasive surgical techniques, including endoscopic spine surgery, can allow for a quicker recovery. When appropriate, our surgeons can make smaller incisions using advanced technology and equipment such as a special camera to treat spinal conditions like stenosis, sciatica or herniated discs.  

For more information, visit the Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery page »

Decompression surgery

Decompression surgery, including discectomy and laminectomy, is designed to relieve pressure on nerves or the spinal cord. It can involve removing some of the bone, ligaments and disc material. These can often be performed as outpatient procedures, meaning you can go home the same day. 

Spine fusion 

This procedure connects, or welds, two or more bones in the spine to prevent movement between the bones. This procedure may reduce pain, improve alignment and provide more spinal stability. It is commonly used to treat scoliosis, an abnormal curve in the spine, or spondylolisthesis, a condition where the vertebrae (bones of the spine) are out of alignment. 

Complex surgical reconstruction or revision 

This type of surgery is used to correct abnormal curves of the spine, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, or to revise prior neck or back surgeries. 

Fracture management 

Fractures of the spine can be treated in several different ways, including:  

  • Nonsurgical management  
  • Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty – Minimally invasive procedures to strengthen your bone  
  • Surgery – Our team is experienced in treating trauma to the spine 

Artificial disc replacement 

This motion preserving surgery treats nerve compression in the neck. When deciding between this and other procedures, your surgeon will consider the best option for you. 

Tumor or cancer surgery

Procedures to remove or shrink tumors. Examples include: 

  • Stereotactic radiosurgery for metastatic lesions 
  • Tumor excision – Surgical removal of tumors may be combined with procedures to decompress nerves and stabilize the spine 

Spine surgery center locations