Awake Spine Surgery Benefits Patients

Premier Health is committed to remaining at the forefront of spine care as the first in the region to implement awake spine surgery. This unique, minimally invasive technique uses spinal anesthesia instead of general anesthesia for a variety of procedures, offering a safer option for those who are considered high-risk or who may not be able to tolerate or undergo general anesthesia.

The advantages of awake spine surgery stem from recent insights into the cognitive effects of general anesthesia and include numerous benefits including shorter hospital stays, lower health care costs, and a reduced risk of complications such as surgical site infections. In many cases, patients can expect a quicker recovery and decreased reliance on opioids following a procedure. Additionally, with fewer cardiopulmonary complications, individuals who might not have been suitable candidates for traditional spine surgery may now have an option to treat their spinal condition through the awake spine program.

Learn more about Awake Spine Surgery from Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Norah Foster, MD.

Back to the April 2025 issue of Premier Pulse