Last Updated on April 4, 2024
Complex spinal fusion for stenosis and hysterectomy for uterine fibroids are both surgeries that may be best avoided. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. According to the AARP. Theses two surgeries are over performed, often deemed as unneccesary and are money makes for hospitals and doctors.
Complex spinal fusion is a surgery to manage back pain. The surgery involves binding two or more vertebrae together with a bone graft. It may also include a plate and screws into the spine. Major complications of the surgery were experience by 5% of the patients.
Alternatives: Before considering a complex spinal fusion. Make sure that all other options have been exhausted. These other options include acupuncture, physical therapy, cortisone injections, or less complicated surgeries like a decompression.
Hysterectomy for uterine fibroids is a surgery that involves the removal of the uterus and often the fallopian tubes and ovaries. There are many less costly procedures that can be performed that can reduce or completely eliminate uterine fibroids. Of course, if cancer is present the hysterectomy is probably the best option. Your doctor will determine this.
Alternatives: The less costly and safer alternatives to this procedure include Chinese herbs, acupuncture, embolization procedure and possible focused ultrasound. Chinese herbs and acupuncture are extremely effective when smaller fibroids, smaller than 4cm are present. Embolization is a safer procedure that cuts off blood flow to the fibroids and shrink them.