Which Spine Surgeries Can Be Performed as Outpatient Procedures

United States, 5th Nov 2025 – Many people are surprised to learn that not all spine surgeries require an overnight hospital stay. Thanks to major advances in minimally invasive techniques, improved surgical instrumentation, and refined anesthesia methods, certain spine procedures can now be safely completed in outpatient centers — allowing patients to return home the same day.

For the right candidates, outpatient spine surgery offers several benefits:

• Smaller incisions and reduced muscle disruption
• Less pain during recovery
• Shorter procedure and recovery times
• A lower risk of infection compared to inpatient hospitals
• The comfort of healing at home rather than in a hospital environment

Here are several types of spine procedures commonly performed on an outpatient basis.

Microdiscectomy

A microdiscectomy is one of the most frequently performed outpatient spine surgeries. It is used to relieve nerve pain caused by a herniated disc pressing on a spinal nerve.

Using a very small incision, the surgeon removes the portion of the disc creating the nerve compression. Most patients are able to stand and walk shortly after the procedure and return home the same day.

Often recommended for:

• Sciatica
• Pain radiating into the legs
• Nerve compression due to disc herniation

Minimally Invasive Spinal Decompression

Procedures such as a laminotomy or laminectomy are used to reduce pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. These surgeries remove small areas of bone or tissue that may be narrowing the spinal canal.

When performed through minimally invasive approaches, many decompression procedures do not require an overnight stay.

Common reasons for decompression include:

• Spinal stenosis
• Bone spurs
• Chronic nerve pain or numbness

Select Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusions

Traditional spine fusions once required multiple days in the hospital. However, with modern minimally invasive techniques, some patients can now undergo fusion in an outpatient setting — if the procedure involves a single level and the patient is otherwise medically healthy.

These newer methods reduce muscle disruption, bleeding, and postoperative discomfort, making same-day discharge possible in certain cases.

Cervical Disc Replacement

Rather than fusing vertebrae, a cervical disc replacement involves removing a damaged disc in the neck and replacing it with an artificial disc that preserves motion.

Because it avoids fusion and is performed through a minimally invasive approach, many patients return home the same day.

Often used to treat:

• Neck pain
• Arm pain or tingling
• Disc degeneration or herniation in the neck

Outpatient Pain-Relief Procedures

Some procedures are minimally invasive enough that they are always outpatient, including:

• Epidural steroid injections
• Facet joint injections
• Nerve blocks
• Radiofrequency ablation

These treatments help reduce inflammation and nerve irritation — sometimes allowing patients to avoid or delay surgery altogether.

Who Qualifies for Outpatient Spine Surgery?

Outpatient surgery may be appropriate if:
You are in overall good health 
Your condition involves one or two affected spinal levels 
You are motivated to follow postoperative care guidelines 
Your surgeon determines your case is suitable and safe for outpatient care 

Your medical history, imaging, symptoms, lifestyle, and recovery support system all factor into this decision.

Dr. David Prior’s Approach

Dr. Prior focuses on minimally invasive spine care designed to reduce pain and restore movement with the least possible disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues. If outpatient surgery is a safe option, he will explain the procedure clearly, outline what to expect, and guide you through recovery step-by-step.

Considering Treatment Options for Neck or Back Pain?

Schedule a consultation to learn whether outpatient spine surgery is right for you.

Dr. David Prior, MD – Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
Phoenix • Chandler • Scottsdale
Expert surgical care with a patient-focused approach.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Dr. David Prior’s website at phoenixbacksurgeon.com.

Check out more information about Outpatient Spine Surgery, Spinal Fusion, Scottsdale Spine Surgeons, and Top Back Surgeons in Scottsdale. Follow us on Facebook and X.

The text above is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. If you have any physical or emotional concerns, contact your doctor for proper consultation.

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