At Vertrae®, we specialize in minimally invasive spine surgery that helps relieve pain, restore function, and get you back on track, without an overnight hospital stay.
Our procedures are performed in outpatient surgery centers near Dayton, using robotic navigation, real-time imaging, and smaller incisions to improve precision and accelerate recovery.
Common spine surgeries at Vertrae®:
Whether your pain is in the neck, lower back, or radiating down your leg, our spine team will help you find the right surgical option, with care tailored to your life.
You’re not alone in wondering this. It’s one of the most common questions we hear.
At Vertrae®, we always start with a conservative-first approach, meaning we explore physical therapy, medications, and injections first.
But if:
Then it might be time to consider minimally invasive spine surgery.
We’ll help you decide by reviewing:
You’ll never be rushed into surgery. Our mission is simple: the right care, at the right time.
Both surgeries are used to treat damaged spinal discs, but the technique and motion outcome differ:
Procedure | Goal | Preserves Motion? |
|---|---|---|
Spinal Fusion | Joins two vertebrae to stop painful movement | ❌ No |
Disc Replacement | Removes and replaces disc with an artificial one | ✅ Yes |
At Vertrae®, we perform both, choosing what fits best based on:
Disc replacement is often ideal for younger or more active patients who want to maintain spinal flexibility while eliminating pain.
Not always, but it’s never our first.
Surgery becomes an option when:
At Vertrae®, we educate first and operate when truly needed. Many of our patients say:
“I wish I hadn’t waited so long.”
Thanks to our minimally invasive techniques, most procedures at Vertrae® take 1 to 2 hours, and you’ll be home the same day.
Common outpatient procedures include:
✅ Less time under anesthesia
✅ Less trauma to surrounding tissue
✅ Faster return to life
Yes. All spine surgeries at Vertrae® are performed under general anesthesia.
You’ll be:
Your comfort and safety are always our priority.
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) uses:
Compared to traditional surgery, MISS offers:
✅ Smaller scars
✅ Less post-op pain
✅ Shorter recovery
✅ Lower infection risk
✅ Less time under anesthesia
Dr. Kamal Woods, our board-certified neurosurgeon, brings advanced MISS and robotic techniques to patients in Dayton, Kettering, and surrounding areas.
While all surgeries carry some risk, minimally invasive spine surgery significantly reduces complications.
Potential risks include:
At Vertrae®, we discuss all risks clearly and create a personalized recovery plan to support your healing every step of the way.
Robotic spine surgery uses 3D navigation and real-time imaging to guide hardware placement with millimeter-level accuracy.
Benefits of robotic-assisted surgery at Vertrae®:
For patients in Dayton and Southwest Ohio, this precision means fewer repeat surgeries and a faster return to work or play.
Yes, and Vertrae® is leading the region in outpatient spine care.
We provide same-day spine surgery across Dayton, Troy, and the Miami Valley region in our advanced, fully equipped ambulatory centers.
You’ll experience:
We bring big-hospital expertise to a more personalized, human setting, so you can heal where you’re most comfortable: at home.
Good news: since all of our procedures are same-day outpatient surgeries, you’ll go home just hours after your procedure. That means packing light is best, but comfort and essentials matter.
Here’s what to bring:
Leave valuables at home—no need for overnight bags. Your Vertrae® team will ensure you’re in, out, and recovering at home the same day.
Yes. For your safety under anesthesia, you must fast for at least 8 hours before your surgery that includes:
A Vertrae® nurse will call the day before your procedure to confirm your exact fasting timeline. Always follow the instructions they provide.
Absolutely. This isn’t optional. It’s for your safety and peace of mind.
After anesthesia, you’ll need a responsible adult to:
If you live alone, consider arranging extra support in advance.
Some medications can increase bleeding risk or interfere with anesthesia. You’ll receive a custom medication checklist, but in general, most patients should stop:
Don’t worry. We’ll guide you step by step and coordinate with your primary care doctor when needed.
No. Even natural products can increase your risk of complications.
To keep your spine surgery as safe as possible:
Still unsure? Call your Vertrae® care team! We’re happy to review your list with you
Think of it like setting up your recovery nest.
To make healing easier:
Your environment plays a big role in how smooth your recovery feels.
Yes, and we encourage it the night before your procedure.
Here’s what to do:
This helps reduce infection risk and keeps the surgical field clean.
PAT is a required pre-surgery appointment at the Vertrae® Surgery Center. It helps us tailor your care to your unique needs.
Your PAT visit includes:
Pro Tip: Come hydrated and with a full bladder — it speeds up testing!
PAT is a nurse visit appointment that typically happens a few weeks to a few days before surgery and only takes about an hour.
You’ll never go into surgery at Vertrae® with unanswered questions.
Before your procedure, Dr. Kamal Woods and your Vertrae® provider will review:
You’ll also receive:
A chance to ask any questions. We’re here to help you feel confident and informed
The day before your surgery, you’ll receive a call from a Vertrae® nurse to go over final details:
It’s quick, but powerful. Most patients say it helps them feel calmer and more prepared.
Most minimally invasive spine surgeries at Vertrae® take between 1-2 hours. Complex procedures like robotic spinal fusion or lumbar disc replacement may take a little longer, but our outpatient model streamlines the process without sacrificing precision or safety.
Did you know?
Because Dr. Kamal Woods uses robotic navigation and muscle-sparing techniques, many Vertrae® surgeries are shorter and more efficient than those in traditional hospital settings.
You’ll receive general anesthesia, which means you’ll be completely asleep and pain-free throughout your spine surgery. An experienced anesthesia physician will monitor your breathing, heart rate, and comfort from start to finish.
Yes. You will not be awake, aware, or in pain at any point during your procedure. Our expert anesthesia team ensures you remain completely unconscious and safe while Dr. Woods performs your surgery.
You’ll have an IV line placed to deliver fluids and medications before and after surgery.
We do not routinely use urinary catheters or surgical drains for outpatient procedures at Vertrae®.
This helps reduce post-op discomfort and speeds up your recovery. If an exception is needed, we’ll discuss it with you ahead of time.
Safety is built into every step of your procedure. At Vertrae®, we use:
• Robotic navigation for screw placement and alignment
• Real-time fluoroscopy (X-ray) for visualization
• Infection control protocols in our state-of-the-art ASC
• Anesthesia monitoring for vital signs and positioning
• Experienced, spine specialized surgical staff
Your care team during surgery includes:
Everyone in the room has a role, and they’re focused on your safety and outcome.
Yes. We welcome one support person to accompany you on the day of surgery. They are welcome to wait in our comfortable outpatient lounge during your procedure. Our staff will provide updates and let them know as soon as you are in recovery.
Because space is limited and to help us maintain the safest environment for all patients, we kindly ask that you bring only one support person into the surgery center. If additional family members travel with you, especially from outside Dayton, such as Springboro, Middletown, Hamilton, or other nearby communities, our team is happy to provide directions, timing guidance, or suggestions for local amenities while they wait.
It’s normal to experience some level of discomfort or pain as the anesthesia wears off. Every patient is different: some feel only mild soreness, while others report more significant pain. What’s most important to know is that this is expected and our team will be there right away to help you through it.
Your recovery nurse will check on you frequently and manage your comfort using:
We want you to be prepared, not surprised. Post-op pain is part of the healing process, but you will never go through it alone. We’ll partner with you every step of the way.
Most Vertrae® patients are discharged 1–2 hours after surgery.
We’ll ensure you meet all safe recovery benchmarks:
Once cleared, you’ll go home the same day with your caregiver and detailed recovery instructions.
Spine surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries risks. At Vertrae®, those risks are significantly reduced thanks to our minimally invasive techniques, robotic precision, and outpatient surgery model.
Most common risks include:
• Minor bleeding or infection
• Temporary nerve irritation
• Incomplete pain relief
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Rare hardware issues in fusion cases
Dr. Kamal Woods reviews your personalized risk profile using imaging, history, and lifestyle, so you feel informed, not overwhelmed.
Complications are rare with modern techniques, and even rarer at Vertrae®.
Because we use smaller incisions, robotic guidance, and same-day discharge in our private surgery center, your risks of infection, blood loss, or nerve damage are far lower than with traditional open surgery.
Our complication rates are well below national averages, and our follow-up care ensures early intervention if needed.
While rare, pain can occasionally worsen if:
• Scar tissue forms near nerves
• Underlying disc or joint issues remain
• Inflammation temporarily increases post-op
That’s why Vertrae® only recommends surgery when the cause of your symptoms is clear, and the procedure is likely to help. Most patients report significant pain relief and better function within weeks.
This is one of the biggest fears we hear, and one of the least likely outcomes.
At Vertrae®, we reduce this risk with:
• Robotic-assisted navigation
• Muscle-sparing surgical approaches
• Intra-op imaging
These tools help protect your spinal cord, nerve roots, and function, especially in delicate areas like the cervical spine.
Our minimally invasive spine procedures have an infection rate under 1%.
We prevent infection by:
• Using a sterile outpatient surgery center (not a hospital)
• Giving IV antibiotics before and after surgery
• Closing small incisions with precise care
• Following up with you directly during recovery
Patients in Dayton who follow post-op instructions, including keeping incisions clean and avoiding tobacco, further reduce their risk.
A failed fusion means the bones didn’t fully heal together after surgery, which can lead to instability or pain.
At Vertrae®, we proactively prevent failed fusion with:
• Robotic screw placement
• Imaging checkpoints at 6, 12, and 24 weeks
• Pre-op counseling about quitting nicotine
• Smart bracing and activity planning
Most patients heal completely within 3–6 months, with no additional procedures needed.
Sometimes, but not often.
You may need a second surgery down the line if:
• A nearby disc or joint degenerates (called “adjacent segment disease”)
• You experience trauma or a fall
• Hardware loosens (rare)
Vertrae® follows you long after the OR, using imaging and symptom tracking to prevent unnecessary repeat surgeries. And if you do need one, we’ll be the first to tell you and guide you.
Your health matters. Here’s how common factors can increase risk:
Health Factor | Potential Risk |
|---|---|
Smoking/Nicotine | Poor wound and bone healing |
Diabetes | Higher infection and nerve recovery risk |
Obesity | Harder anesthesia, wound care, movement |
Osteoporosis | Weaker bone around implants |
Our Dayton-area patients benefit from pre-op optimization plans that reduce these risks. Even small changes can mean a safer surgery and faster recovery.
At Vertrae®, you’re not just a patient, you’re a partner in risk reduction.
Top pre-op actions that reduce complications:
✅ Quit smoking/vaping 4–6 weeks before
✅ Control blood sugar if diabetic
✅ Use CPAP if prescribed for sleep apnea
✅ Follow all pre-op instructions
✅ Prep your home for safe, stress-free healing
Our care team will walk you through every checklist and check in the day before surgery to make sure you’re ready.
Surgery always includes the possibility of the unexpected, but you’re never alone.
If we discover something during the procedure that wasn’t visible on scans:
• We’ll assess it in real time
• Adjust our surgical plan if safe to do so
• Inform your caregiver immediately post-op
• Pause and consult with you, if needed
Trust is key. At Vertrae®, we communicate clearly and prioritize your goals, even when plans shift.
Most Vertrae® patients go home with a short-term prescription for a narcotic pain reliever such as:
We also strongly advise taking an OTC (over the counter) stool softener with the post-op medications. One of the unwanted side effects of pain medication is constipation.
You may also use:
You’ll receive a printed medication guide in your discharge packet, and your nurse will walk you through every detail before you leave.
If you had fusion surgery, not right away. NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin should be avoided for 3 months post-op if you had spinal fusion.
These medications can:
We’ll let you know when it’s safe to reintroduce NSAIDs.
Everyone heals at a different pace, but most Vertrae® patients only need prescription pain meds for a few days to 2 weeks.
As pain decreases, we’ll help you:
Our goal is to keep you comfortable and safe, without relying on long-term pain medications.
Mild nausea is very common in the first 24–48 hours due to:
We may prescribe ondansetron (Zofran) for nausea relief.
Let your Vertrae® nurse or provider know if symptoms persist after discharge.
Yes! Every day, while taking narcotic pain medication.
To prevent constipation:
Regular bowel movements help reduce post-op pain and protect your incision.
✅ Yes to ice
❌ Not yet to heat
Use ice packs wrapped in a towel:
Avoid:
We want you comfortable, not suffering through it.
Call Vertrae® at 1-844-ALL-BACK if:
We’ll review your plan and adjust as needed. Don’t wait. Early action helps us help you.
Yes! Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally safe to take before surgery.
Just be cautious:
We’ll confirm what you can and cannot take during your pre-op phone call.
Yes, but only for short-term, post-operative pain management.
At Vertrae®, we follow strict safety guidelines:
Your comfort and safety go hand-in-hand. You’ll be supported throughout.
❌ Don’t flush or save unused opioids.
✅ Instead, dispose of them safely:
Need help? Ask during your next Vertrae® follow-up and we’ll guide you.
Recovery timelines depend on your procedure and overall health. At Vertrae®, we use two proven recovery roadmaps:
Both plans include:
You won’t go through recovery alone. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
Not every patient needs PT, but if you do, we’ll make sure it’s personalized and convenient.
At Vertrae®:
Yes, most patients can shower starting two days after surgery, unless told otherwise.
Just follow these steps:
If surgical glue was used, let it fall off naturally. Do not peel or pick at it.
Most patients can walk and use stairs on the same day as surgery, with proper support.
Our team will teach you safe movement techniques before you leave the surgery center.
Call Vertrae® right away if you notice:
Even if you’re not sure, we want you to call. We’d rather check early than miss something important.
In many cases, yes. You may need a brace after:
Your Vertrae® team will let you know before surgery whether a brace is needed. At your PAT appointment a Vertrae® nurse will fit you and explain exactly when and how to wear it.
We provide custom-fitted orthopedic braces matched to your procedure:
Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
Lumbar Brace | Supports lower back after lumbar procedures |
Cervical Brace | Stabilizes neck after cervical procedures |
Each brace is selected and sized to your anatomy. You’ll also receive full instructions from our care team so you know how to wear it safely and effectively.
Most patients wear their brace:
You won’t wear it while sleeping or showering unless otherwise directed by your provider. We’ll tailor your plan to your comfort and recovery timeline.
No.
Instead, we recommend:
Sleeping without a brace reduces skin pressure and helps prevent irritation or discomfort.
You might, but only temporarily.
After surgery (especially fusion or SI joint procedures), certain patients could benefit from:
We’ll assess your mobility and help you determine if a device is needed, and if so, for how long.
Vertrae® makes this simple:
Device | Where You’ll Get It |
|---|---|
Lumbar/Cervical Brace | Provided by Vertrae®, usually before or right after surgery |
Walkers, Canes, Shower Chairs | From a local medical supply store or through insurance-approved delivery |
Our care coordinators handle the details so you don’t have to worry.
Yes, but only once cleared to shower (usually Day 2).
Important tips:
Showering safely is part of your healing. We’ll walk you through it.
In most cases, yes. Braces and devices fall under Durable Medical Equipment (DME) coverage.
Our team will:
We’ll make sure there are no billing surprises.
We’ll teach you at your Pre Admission Testing (PAT). You’ll learn:
Not sure afterward? Come in for a fitting check or give us a call. We’re happy to help.
It’s common at first and manageable.
Try these tips:
Still having issues? We can:
Your comfort matters as much as your protection.
It depends on your surgery and job. Most Vertrae® patients return to desk jobs within 2–4 weeks, while physical jobs may require 6–12 weeks or more.
We’ll evaluate:
We’ll provide customized work notes for our patients in Dayton and beyond.
Jobs with:
Machinery or commercial driving
…typically require clearance at 6–12+ weeks.
We’ll help coordinate your return with HR or Workers’ Comp as needed.
Yes. Often within the first few days after surgery. That includes:
We’ll guide you on pacing, avoiding setbacks, and using smart movement strategies during recovery.
Usually 7–14 days after surgery, as long as you’re:
Always confirm with your Vertrae® provider before resuming driving.
We’ll guide your reconditioning plan step by step:
Live near Dayton or Springboro? We’ll recommend a spine-smart PT plan.
Yes, you can return safely and on a timeline.
We’ll help rebuild core strength and reduce reinjury risk.
These movements place stress on the healing spine. Avoid for 6–12 weeks, depending on your procedure.
That includes:
Lifting groceries or kids
We’ll teach safe alternatives.
Yes—but it’s important to take it step by step.
We’ll coach you through a safe, personalized progression so you can rebuild strength without risking your recovery.
Usually within 2–3 weeks, depending on comfort and mobility.
Guidelines:
Start gently and listen to your body
This is a common and completely valid topic. We’ll guide you respectfully.
Yes, with planning.
Bring:
Let us know if you’re planning a trip from Dayton, Cincinnati, or out-of-state.
Yes, but we recommend:
Planning a flight or long road trip? We’ll give personalized travel clearance.
Listen to your body. Call us if you notice:
Dizziness or unusual fatigue
Our number: 1-844-ALL-BACK. We’re here to help.
In most cases, no.
Once healing is complete, you can return to:
If you’ve had a spinal fusion, we may advise against high-impact sports or contact activities long-term.
You’ll feel:
We’ll walk through your recovery milestones during follow-up visits.
We’ll teach you:
These habits protect your recover and your future spine health.
Mowing can put stress on your healing spine, especially if it involves bending, twisting, or lifting heavy yard clippings. The timing depends on your procedure and the type of mowing:
In short: You may return to light riding mower use earlier, but pushing and heavy yard work take longer. Always avoid bending, twisting, or lifting until cleared by your surgeon or PA.
Even though our procedures use small incisions, those areas still need time to heal and must be protected from direct pressure. Most patients can return to gentle massage about 6–12 weeks after surgery, but timing depends on the procedure and your healing progress.
Safe guidelines include:
In short: Massage can help with recovery, but only once your incisions are fully healed and your surgeon or PA has given the green light.
At Vertrae®, your recovery is guided step by step, and the exact timeline depends on the type of surgery you have.
Every patient heals differently, so we may add visits or adjust timing based on your progress. Your recovery plan is always personalized — never one-size-fits-all.
Spine healing happens beneath the surface, and imaging helps us see it clearly.
We use X-rays to:
X-rays are typically taken at 6, 12, and 24 weeks for fusion surgeries, all done on-site at our Dayton facility.
Here’s what to expect:
Visit | What We Check |
|---|---|
6-Week | X-ray, brace compliance, walking/activity level, incision healing, pain review |
12-Week | X-ray, PT progress, lifting/activity guidance, return-to-work discussions |
6-Month | Final X-ray, pain resolution, functional clearance, discharge or long-term plan |
Every visit is a chance to adjust, improve, and celebrate progress.
Full recovery depends on:
Most patients are functionally healed in 3–6 months, though spinal fusion can continue to strengthen for up to a year. We’ll clear you when:
Yes. Continuity of care is core to the Vertrae® model.
Dr. Kamal Woods and our experienced PA, Jen, work as a team. You’ll build a relationship with providers who:
No bouncing between random providers. Just thoughtful, coordinated care.
Absolutely. Our care doesn’t stop at the clinic door.
Call us at 1-844-ALL-BACK for:
We’re here for the big things and the small ones.
Yes, with your consent, of course.
We routinely share:
Your PCP, pain management doctor, or referring provider will stay informed, so your care stays collaborative and connected.
We’re proactive, not reactive. If healing doesn’t go as planned, we will:
You’re never left wondering. We stay ahead of the curve so you stay on track.
Not necessarily.
Most patients only need imaging if:
For non-fusion procedures, we may rely more on clinical exams unless concerns arise.
Keep a simple log of:
Yes. All recovery paths at Vertrae® include structured follow-ups:
We’ll adjust your timeline based on your progress and needs.
Recovery Plan | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
12-Week | Discectomy, laminectomy, Barricaid®,disc replacement, spinal cord stimulator, ReActiv8® | Focused on nerve healing, mobility return, minimal bracing and PT |
6-Month | Spinal fusion | Involves brace wear, staged imaging, longer rehab period, gradual return to full activity |
We’ll give you the right plan and walk every step with you.
