Richard Guyer, MD, of Plano-based Texas Back Institute, performed anterior lumbar interbody fusion on Tiger Woods in April.
Here are five things to know:
1. The surgery allowed the golf legend to re-enter the sports scene Nov. 30 for his first tournament in 10 months, according to SportsDay.
2. Dr. Guyer performed the minimally invasive fusion at L5/S1, removing a damaged disc from Mr. Woods' spine.
3. This is Mr. Woods' fourth spine surgery, each initially viewed as successes allowing him to return to play. Each time, though, Mr. Woods' back pain returned.
4. Mr. Woods commented in November he needed an enhanced quality of life, as his back pain stopped him from doing many activities, from sports to going out to dinner.
5. Dr. Guyer co-founded the Texas Back Institute. He serves as director of the institute's spine fellowship program and co-director of the center for disc replacement.