anybody have a recommendation for a ortho doc or surgeon in the Buffalo, Ny area? I'm looking for a second opinion, and third!

Wise move. Sorry I don't have any recommendations in that area, but wanted to suggest that you visit your state's web site. Usually you can search for doc's by speciality in the licensing by the state. In TN it is under the health department, but in some states it has its own department. In Tennessee's I can see the doc's educational background, how long they've practiced, if they've published or been the leader of some new development, along with important info such as if there have been complaints or rulings against them.

You might also look toward the AMA web site and some others (just search for doctors) they will give you a lot of info about docs in the area, as they are sorted by state and city, by speciality, etc. These things along with individuals recommendations help narrow the field a lot, but it helps you find those that have specialized in spine, arms, etc.

This is what I've done for several specialist I've needed as well as for family and friends in a couple of states as they were'nt into using the computer. At least you have a list you can prioritize and then if you can't see them, you have the next one of your choosing. Hope that helps.

anybody have a recommendation for a ortho doc or surgeon in the Buffalo, Ny area? I'm looking for a second opinion, and third!
Hi,
I do not know any surgeons in the buffalo area, but rochester. are you willing to go there? Is it for your back? i am new to this board, are you allowed to give a dr.'s name on this board? by the way, mine is a neurosurgeon. nicole

Hi. I saw Dr. Kevin Gibbons at UB - Millard Fillmore Hosp. for a 2nd opinion. Also, Dr. Rafael Allende at Strong Memorial Hosp. in Rochester NY is very, very, very good. If you are intrerested in ADR I reccomend the guy that did mine in CA - Dr. John Regan. If you want someone closer than California for ADR Dr. Fabian Bitan in NYC is the man. Just my humble opinion of course. Good luck!

Hi. I saw Dr. Kevin Gibbons at UB - Millard Fillmore Hosp. for a 2nd opinion. Also, Dr. Rafael Allende at Strong Memorial Hosp. in Rochester NY is very, very, very good. If you are intrerested in ADR I reccomend the guy that did mine in CA - Dr. John Regan. If you want someone closer than California for ADR Dr. Fabian Bitan in NYC is the man. Just my humble opinion of course. Good luck!
Hi. I saw Dr. Kevin Gibbons at UB - Millard Fillmore Hosp. for a 2nd opinion. Also, Dr. Rafael Allende at Strong Memorial Hosp. in Rochester NY is very, very, very good. If you are intrerested in ADR I reccomend the guy that did mine in CA - Dr. John Regan. If you want someone closer than California for ADR Dr. Fabian Bitan in NYC is the man. Just my humble opinion of course. Good luck!
Hi,
I am excited to hear that you liked Dr. Allende! Dr. Pilcher is sending me to him for a 2nd opinion. Mine is this Tuesday. Dr. Pilcher feels a fusion is the next step for me. If Dr. Allende feels the same way then he would do it. Have you had surgery from him? Does he take his time w/ you in the office? Does he listen to you? I have not met him or never heard of him. I am anxious for Tuesday. If you had to have surgery, would you feel comfortable? I hope to hear from you soon! Oh, and what is a ADR? Nicole

Hi:

I live in Rochester. ADR is Artificial Disc Replacement. If you are having a 1 level fusion below L4 you may be a candidate. I had L5-S1 disc replaced 5 weeks ago. Dr. Allende will discuss that option with you. I know he has trained to do the Charite ADR (the only FDA approved disc currently on the market), but was not currently performing the operation. Since disc placement is critical, if you opt for ADR you probably want to go with someone with significant experience. I'd also inquire about minimally invasive surgical techniques. This can cut down on your recovery time significantly. Dr. Charles Branch at Wake Forest University is one of the best (again in my opinion).

With ADR I had the surgery on 2/18, and was discharged on 2/19. At + 5 weeks I am almost totally pain free, save a couple minimal back spasms. I would reccomend a lot of research before you go the fusion route. Good luck !

Good luck.

Check out spine.org.