Dallas Morning News – Dr. Hostin

Considering Spine Surgery?

 

Whether you have a new injury or a long-standing problem, spine surgery could be the answer to back pain. Here’s what — and who — to know.

Dallas Morning News
By Tiffany Hafler
Dec. 18, 2023
8 min. read

A top spine surgeon will always evaluate your medical needs and work with you to achieve optimum results.

Spine surgery is one of the most complex types of surgery, given that the spine, spinal cord, and central nervous system are all intertwined within the spinal column. Spine surgeons must undergo many years of education and training before they are certified to provide surgical services. Even then, these surgeons must continually stay on top of the latest medical research and innovations in medicine and technology to provide effective, safe treatment for patients needing spine surgery. Getting informed about spinal procedures and surgeons is the first step to determining the right course of care.

Why Spine Surgery May Be Necessary

The spine is both a functional part of the body and an integral structural piece of the body’s frame. The spine provides support for the back and works together with muscles, ligaments, and tendons to offer flexibility and range of motion while creating form.

At the same time, the spine houses the spinal cord, the central pathway through which all nerves in the body connect to the brain, and the home of numerous blood vessels. This means that problems with the spine can not only cause structural and mechanical issues with the body but can also lead to neurological dysfunction.

In many cases, spine conditions can be corrected through physical therapy, injections, and prescription medications. In cases of congenital defects and deformity, trauma, or deterioration through wear and tear, spine surgery may be required to make corrections. Spine surgery is generally considered a last resort when conservative measures have failed, but each case of spinal difficulty is unique and requires a diagnosis from an orthopedic specialist.

Choosing a Spine Surgeon in Dallas

Choosing a spine surgeon can be challenging since all spine surgeons must adhere to rigorous standards in practice and training. Although there are many incredible spine surgeons in Dallas, individuals and their families should look for the very best in the area in order to receive surgical care from a top-level spine expert.

This list includes seven of Dallas’ best spine surgeons. Criteria used for this list include, but are not limited to:

• Located in the Dallas area
• A top rating on Healthgrades
• Overall positive score taken from Google reviews
• Specializing in at least three different spine procedures
• Education and training factors

As with all things related to your health, you should carefully consider your options and consult with trusted medical professionals before deciding on surgery of any kind. Only you and your medical team can determine whether spine surgery is the right course of action for your needs.

Recognized Spine Surgeons to Consider in Dallas

Richard Hostin, M.D.

Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute

• Provides surgical solutions for scoliosis and complex spinal deformity
• Treats spine disorders in adults, adolescents, and children
• Has served as a contributor to national spine care projects
• Is a member of the International Spine Society Group, among other professional organizations

Dr. Richard Hostin was selected for this list of spine surgeons in Dallas due to his versatility in providing care to patients in all age groups. Hostin is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the North American Spine Society, ty and the Scoliosis Research Society, allowing him to continue his education among peers in the orthopedic surgery medical community.

Hostin attended UC-Berkeley for his undergraduate studies before embarking on his medical training at the University of Oklahoma, where he was a member of the medical honor society. After graduating from medical school, Hostin completed his residency at UC Davis and his fellowship at Twin Cities Spine Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He serves patients primarily at the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute and treats pediatric patients, teens, and adults.

Read reviews for Dr. Hostin.

Always Consider Your Unique Needs When Selecting a Dallas Spine Surgeon

Although the above surgeons are all top-rated medical professionals, choosing the right spine surgeon comes down to your unique medical needs. You should always consult with your primary care physician to help choose the right spine surgeon, and you should interview candidates and ask questions that are important to you.

In many cases, conservative measures are warranted before spine surgery is considered. A competent spine surgeon, including those on this list, is someone who will evaluate your unique medical concerns and make specialized recommendations based on your health care needs. Minimally invasive spine surgery may be an option, but your surgeon will be able to provide you with recommendations based on your medical history.

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Disclaimer: The above is not medical advice and is intended for informational purposes only. No statement made is intended to qualify or disqualify any medical professional in performing their duties with the utmost care and professionalism.

The medical content on this page has been carefully reviewed and approved for accuracy by the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute’s qualified healthcare professionals, including our board-certified physicians and Physician Assistants. Our team ensures that all information reflects the latest evidence-based practices and meets rigorous standards of medical accuracy, with oversight from our expert spine doctors to guarantee reliability for our patients.