Told you need back surgery? Get a second opinion

How it works

1. Call us: 732-202-3000. Tell us you would like a second opinion.
2. Send your records: we will tell you what to bring or have sent.
3. Your visit: a physician reviews your history, examines you and goes over your imaging with you.
4. Your options: we explain the nonsurgical, minimally invasive and surgical options that fit, including the option of waiting.

What to bring

• Your imaging on a disc or a link, and the written reports (MRI, CT, X-rays)
• Notes from the surgeon or physician who recommended surgery, if available
• A list of treatments you have tried (therapy, injections, medicines) and how they worked
• Your medicine list and insurance card

Second opinions by telehealth

For some patients, a second opinion or imaging review can be done by video visit. Call 732-202-3000 to ask whether a telehealth visit fits your situation. About telehealth at GSMC.

Our approach

We do not assume surgery is or is not needed. We look at whether your symptoms, exam and imaging line up, and what has already been tried. Many patients have options short of surgery; for others, surgery is the right step, and we will say so.