ASCs are increasingly incorporating spine procedures as techniques advance and welcoming surgeons trained in minimally invasive procedures.
Westchester, Ill.-based Regent Surgical Health Chief Development Officer Jeff Simmons spoke about the key trends seen in ASC spine procedures today.
Mr. Simmons is speaking on a panel titled "Spine procedures in ASCs" at the Becker's 15th Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC Conference + The Future of Spine, June 22 to 24, 2017 in Chicago. Click here to learn more and register.
Q: Which recent developments in technology and technique have impacted ASC spine procedures the most?
Jeff Simmons: As more spine fellows complete their education and training they are being trained not only with the latest technology but in environments where it is safe to perform many more procedures. Thus the market is increasing in the number of surgeons willing and practiced in performing these cases in an outpatient setting. The greatest impact that would continue to prevent this growth is the ability of payers to recognize that these procedures can be performed safely in an ASC setting.
Q: Where do you see spine procedures in ASCs heading in the future?
JS: Look at total joints: once this was considered only as an inpatient procedure and spine was the outlier. In many cases, outpatient spine is considered as a mature market.
Q: What are the best ways to incorporate new spine procedures and techniques into your ASC?
JS: The answer is safely. Pre-selection of patients who will do best in an outpatient setting is the best method to make sure new techniques are performed in an ASC.
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