Surgical Solutions

Spine Surgery

Expert surgical care with a conservative-first philosophy

At Desert Spine and Pain, surgery is never the first step—it’s the right step when it’s truly needed. Most people improve with Non-Invasive Treatments and, when appropriate, Pain Management Injections. If disabling pain or progressive nerve symptoms persist, our team—led by nationally recognized neurosurgeon Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS—offers advanced minimally invasive and reconstructive spine surgery right here in Phoenix. Our promise: clear explanations, careful preparation, and a step-by-step plan so you know exactly what to expect.

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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.

Types of Spine Surgery

Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)

Discectomy Procedures

Fusion Procedures

Stenosis Surgery

Decompression Procedures

Motion Preservation Surgery

Spine Surgical Procedures

Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)

At Desert Spine and Pain, we perform the following MIS procedures:

  • Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF)

  • Interlaminar Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ILIF)

  • Laminectomy / Foraminotomy

  • Microdiscectomy

  • Minimally Invasive Intradiscal Procedures

  • Sacroiliac Fusion (SI Fusion)

  • Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

Discectomy Procedures

Here are the most common discectomy surgical procedures we perform at Desert Spine and Pain:

  • Discectomy

  • Lumbar Microdiscectomy

  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion

  • ACDF with Disc Replacement

Decompression Procedures

At Desert Spine and Pain, Dr. David Greenwald will perform a decompression surgical procedure to relieve pain in your back and spine.

  • Laminectomy

  • Foraminotomy

  • Corpectomy

  • Ulnar Nerve Decompression

  • Carpal Tunnel Release

Fusion Procedures

If needed, our nationally recognized neuro spine surgeon, Dr. David Greenwald, MD utilizes spinal fusion procedures which have been extremely successful.

  • Cervical Fusion

  • Lumbar Fusion

  • Sacroiliac Joint Fusion

Stenosis Surgery

At Desert Spine and Pain, we'll treat your spinal stenosis to decrease pain and improve your overall quality of life.

  • Cervical Stenosis Surgery

  • Lumbar Decompression with Coflex

  • Lumbar Stenosis Surgery

  • Thoracic Stenosis Surgery

Motion Preservation Surgery

At Desert Spine and Pain, we're experts at artificial disc replacement surgeries for every part of your spine.

  • Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)

  • Anterior Lumbar Fusion & Disc Replace

  • Cervical Disc Replacement

  • Lumbar Disc Replacement

See ADR Surgeries

Vertebrae Repair Procedures

At Desert Spine and Pain, if your back is literally broken, we can help with the following procedures:

  • Kyphoplasty

  • Vertebroplasty

Recovery & Timeline

Mild cases

Nursing intake, anesthesia evaluation, surgical site verification.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia for most spine procedures; nerve monitoring for safety.

Positioning & imaging

Careful positioning to protect nerves; real-time imaging/navigation confirms levels.

Procedure

Decompression and/or fusion performed via MIS portals or a small open approach based on your case.

Closure

Layered closure; dissolvable sutures/skin glue in many cases.

Recovery (PACU)

Pain control, neurologic checks, walking the same day in many MIS cases.

Home vs. vernight

Many MIS decompressions are same-day; fusions often overnight or short stay.

Book a consultation with a spine surgeon.

If you’ve been told you may need spine surgery, getting an expert opinion is the best next step. Dr. Greenwald and his caring team will thoroughly evaluate your condition, explain all treatment options—including non-surgical alternatives—and develop a surgical plan tailored to your unique needs. Every step you take toward understanding your options brings you closer to relief and restored function. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward expert spine care and a healthier, more confident future.

Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine

Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon renowned for his expertise in spine surgery, offering both traditional and minimally invasive procedures to treat a wide range of spinal conditions. Whether addressing herniated discs, spinal stenosis, fractures, deformities, or degenerative diseases, Dr. Greenwald combines surgical precision with the latest technology to achieve optimal outcomes. His approach emphasizes preserving mobility, minimizing tissue disruption, and promoting faster recovery. With decades of experience and a strong reputation for compassionate care, Dr. Greenwald has helped countless patients throughout South Florida find lasting relief and return to active, pain-free lives.

Recovery Timeline

Back Pain Conditions

A specialized procedure to treat blocked arteries, ensuring better heart health and improved circulation.

2–6 weeks

Most MIS decompression patients resume light work once pain improved, then structured PT, if ordered.

6–12 weeks

Gradually return to more activity. People with office jobs are back to work after fusion in 6–8 weeks.

3–6 months

Strength and endurance rebuilding. Fusion bone healing continues (no nicotine).

6–12+ months

Full fusion consolidation complete. Most people return to all activities at the end of this period.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need surgery?

If disabling pain or progressive weakness persists after a solid trial of conservative care—or if there’s significant compression/instability on imaging—surgery is considered. We’ll review options and outcomes together.

Is minimally invasive surgery as effective as open surgery?

For many conditions, yes. MIS achieves the same goals with less muscle disruption, which can mean less pain and a quicker recovery.

What are my restrictions after surgery?

Initially: no bending, lifting, or twisting; walk multiple short sessions daily. We tailor restrictions and reintroduce activity as you heal.

Will I need a brace?

Sometimes—especially after fusion or fractures. See Bracing for how we use braces short-term without weakening muscles.

What if I’m nervous about anesthesia or pain?

We combine advanced imaging, conservative-first care, and surgical expertise from one of the nation’s top neurosurgeons.

How long before I can work out again?

Walking starts immediately. Light strengthening often begins by 2–6 weeks (procedure-dependent). Impact lifting and sports come later under guidance.

What happens if surgery doesn’t help?

We set realistic expectations up front and track outcomes closely. If results lag, we troubleshoot early—adjusting PT, medications, or imaging to find and fix the barrier.

Book your Spine Care Consultation Today!

Desert Spine and Pain

Patient Centered & Partner Focused

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