Referring Physicians: Spinal Fusion Surgery Services

RUSH is a high-volume medical center for spinal care and spinal fusion surgery, with one of the top-rated neurology and neurosurgery programs in the country. Our spine surgeons typically perform more than 2,300 surgeries each year. They are among the most experienced in performing spinal fusion procedures and offer comprehensive care for both outpatients and inpatients.

Our surgeons are also some of the world's leaders in minimally invasive fusion procedures. They perform most procedures, including fusion and disc replacement, using less invasive approaches, which can lead to fewer complications, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery. Before patients undergo spinal fusion surgery, our surgeons employ a team approach to form personalized care plans. They consult with multiple spinal care specialists and explore conservative approaches when appropriate, including physical therapy, epidural injections, back joint injections, nerve blocks, lifestyle changes and psychosocial support. For patients who need spinal fusion surgery, our surgeons work with pain management specialists, physical therapists, occupational therapists and any other specialists they may need for care and recovery.

Who Are Ideal Candidates for Treatment at RUSH?

Any patient in need of spinal care will find expert treatment here. RUSH surgeons are some of the most experienced in the country at handling even the most complex cases. They can form effective care plans for those who have had failed procedures in the past or those whose care has not been managed through conservative approaches.

We also offer second opinion services to patients who are unsure of their diagnosis or recommended treatment, as well as those who would like to explore alternative options for care. Our care coordinators walk patients through the appointment process and ensure that they can seamlessly get all the evaluation and treatment they need before committing to spinal fusion surgery.

Why Refer Patients Here?

Top-ranked care: U.S. News & World Report includes RUSH on its Best Hospitals Honor Roll and ranks our neurology and neurosurgery program among the best in the nation. We’ve also been designated as a Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery for our commitment to high-quality care, patient safety and providing the best possible outcomes.
Excellence in nursing: RUSH has received Magnet designation, the highest national recognition given for nursing excellence, several consecutive times. The designation recognizes RUSH’s nursing staff for overall excellence and for providing the very best care to patients.
Percutaneous spine surgery: Some minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery can be performed percutaneously. With percutaneous minimally invasive surgery, screws used for fusion are inserted into the skin through small incisions without cutting underlying muscle as with open surgery.
3D models and augmented reality tools: Our surgeons rely on state-of-the-art technology to create 3D surgical models, allowing them to better plan surgeries, create safer care plans and achieve better outcomes for patients. They were also the first in the world to use augmented reality to superimpose 3D surgical models directly onto the surgical area for even greater accuracy.
New techniques and treatments: Our spinal fusion surgeons conduct ongoing research and clinical trials of new treatment options and techniques. This means patients may have options for care that are not easily available at other hospitals.

What Is the Process for Referring a Patient?

To refer patients to RUSH for neurosurgery, including spinal fusion surgery, call (312) 942-6644. You can also learn more on our Referring and Transferring Patients page and find an online provider referral form. Patients are seen by our spinal care team within two weeks of initial contact and can be seen sooner if their condition requires urgent treatment.

We work closely with referring clinicians in supplementing their patients’ current care and engage with them in timely, coordinated communication. Referring physicians are integral members of our care team, and we work with them to determine patients’ needs and keep them updated on all aspects of their care.

Our physicians use our electronic medical record system to communicate all encounters with your patient. They will provide details on recommended care and any treatments performed.