It Takes a Team: Who’s Involved in Your Spine Surgery?
“Teamwork makes the dream work” isn’t just a catchy saying — it’s a reality in the operating room, especially during complex spine surgery. Behind every successful procedure is a team of highly skilled professionals working together with one goal: to provide the best possible care to you, the patient.
Recently, during a surgery for L4-S1 ALIF and posterior fusion, I was reminded once again just how many incredible hands and minds are involved in making spine surgery safe, efficient, and patient-centered.
Here’s a look at some of the key players who make it all happen:
🧠 Neurosurgeon
That’s me — guiding the procedure, ensuring your spine is treated with precision, and making all surgical decisions.
🤝 Physician Assistant (PA)
PAs like Ananya Mahajan, PA-C are deeply involved in both the prep and execution of surgery. They assist in the OR, manage post-op care, and help coordinate your journey from clinic to recovery.
🩺 Access Surgeon & Their PA
In surgeries like ALIF (anterior lumbar interbody fusion), an access surgeon helps safely move abdominal structures aside to allow us access to the spine. Their expertise is critical for a safe approach.
🧯 Anesthesia Team
CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) and
Anesthesiologist
They manage your anesthesia, monitor your vitals, and keep you safe and comfortable during the entire procedure.
⚙️ Spine Reps & Technology Teams
Spine reps bring in surgical implants and tools, ensuring we have exactly what we need. But they are more than couriers; they are another set of eyes in the operating room.
The Enabling Technology Team supports us with robotics and navigation, which help enhance precision.
⚡ Neuromonitoring Team
They monitor your nerve function in real-time to help us avoid nerve injury and improve outcomes — especially during delicate parts of surgery.
💉 Cell Saver Team
These specialists help reduce the need for blood transfusions by collecting, cleaning, and returning your own blood during surgery. This is only utilized for bigger surgeries (such as scoliosis corrections).
🏥 Operating Room Nurses & Techs
Circulating Nurse – manages the OR flow, supplies, and patient safety.
Scrub Tech – assists directly by handing instruments and maintaining the sterile field.
X-ray Tech – provides real-time imaging to guide accurate implant placement.
👩⚕️ Pre-Op and PACU Nurses
Before and after your surgery, these nurses care for you, monitor recovery, manage medications, and ensure you’re comfortable and safe as you wake up.
📋 Clinic & Admin Team
Even before you step into the OR, your clinic team has been working to schedule your surgery, get clearances, handle insurance, and prepare you for what’s ahead.
🧩 Every Piece Matters
When you undergo spine surgery, you’re not just putting your trust in one person — you’re leaning on a whole team of trained, compassionate professionals. Each one plays a critical role in making sure you have a smooth, safe, and successful surgical experience.
So when you walk into the hospital, know this: you’re surrounded by people who’ve got your back — literally and figuratively.
What makes spine surgery truly special is how seamlessly we come together — all aligned around you, the patient.
Grateful every day to be part of a team that’s strong, smart, and committed to delivering excellent care, one patient at a time.
📍 Want to learn more about your spine surgery team?
Explore FloridaSpineSurgeon.org or follow us on Instagram @FloridaSpineSurgeon for videos, behind-the-scenes looks, and more patient education content.
