Alternatives to Surgery: Which one is right for you?
The earliest clinical experience of alternative therapies is in medically inoperable patients, but a rapidly growing body of prospective trials has demonstrated encouraging safety and efficacy that are beginning to approach those achieved by surgery. Alternatives to surgery are being explored as first-line treatments for some patients. Prospective cooperative group trials are ongoing or complete. The same is true for SABR and RFA, which are both being studied in prospective cooperative group trials.
Surgery is an option for certain conditions
You may need to get a second opinion if you are unsure if you should have surgery. While your first doctor might recommend surgery, there may be other nonsurgical options that are just as effective. Your healthcare provider should thoroughly explain any risks involved and whether nonsurgical treatments are an option. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you “watchful wait,” which is a process of monitoring your condition for a set period. If your condition improves during this period, you may be able to postpone surgery. However, if the surgery is necessary immediately, you may not be able to get a second opinion. Your healthcare provider may recommend surgery in this situation.
For conditions that are not treatable with drugs or other non-invasive procedures, there are also nonsurgical options. In fact, many of the most common musculoskeletal conditions respond well to non-surgical interventions, including arthritis, rotator cuff tears, disc herniations, and many other common problems. These treatments are more effective and often less costly than surgeries. They are not always possible in all cases.
Consider the risks before you have surgery. All surgeries carry some risks, so you’ll want to carefully weigh the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider should explain possible risks and side effects, including any possible pain afterward. It’s important to know what to expect and when to seek immediate medical attention if complications arise. You should also discuss how to manage pain after surgery. Finally, remember that any surgery comes with risks and complications, so be sure to ask all of your questions.
Cost of Surgery
When comparing the costs of surgery, you may find that using a surgical center is far more affordable. In-network care means that everyone who provides care is in-network with your insurer. However, if you do not have insurance, you may need to research the costs of surgeries at different settings. You can save thousands of dollars by using a center. You may also be surprised to find that you can save thousands of dollars by opting for a different method.
The cost of a surgical procedure may be significantly different from that of an alternative. In some cases, the total cost could exceed $100,000. Although most people believe they know the cost of surgery and have made the right decision to go ahead with it, many expenses are not disclosed prior to the procedure. The average cost of surgery varies widely depending on the type of surgery. In some cases, the hospital will cover up to 80% of the bill, but if the procedure is major, the costs may be much higher.
Insurance companies will also cover a surgical alternative if your current plan does not cover it. Changing insurance plans does not require a change of job, but can save you thousands of dollars. Insurance companies often wait until the new year to make major changes to their plans. Make sure you ask about any upcoming changes. It is possible to make a change, even though it might seem hard. It can also be a great way for you to avoid having your credit ruin one surgery.
Stem Cell Therapy is an Alternative to Surgery
You may be wondering what stem cell therapy is and how it works. Stem cells can be directed to exactly the location where they are needed to heal. In the human body, stem cells are produced in the bone marrow and directed to different areas as they’re needed. Based on the nature and severity of the problem, the type of stem cell required for that particular procedure will vary.
Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that affects the knee. There’s currently no cure for this disorder, but non-surgical options can help alleviate pain and inflammation. Stem cell therapy, when combined with a comprehensive physical therapy program can help patients avoid having to have knee replacement surgery. In a Colorado study, Dr. Matthew Provencher found that stem cell therapy was able to help patients with OA walk again six months later.
A recent meta-analysis of published studies on intraoperative stem cell therapies reveals promising results. These studies focus on preclinical models, case reports, and clinical trials. The results are promising and suggest that stem cell therapy may be an effective alternative to surgery. However, many limitations remain. Although clinical trials are needed, they are still not routinely conducted.