Dr. Zhou is a skilled spine surgeon at Harborview and helps patients with a variety of conditions, including cervical and lumbar disk problems.
Spine surgery
Surgical treatments for back or neck pain provided by our team of expert spine surgeons.
Spine surgery
Surgical treatments for back or neck pain provided by our team of expert spine surgeons.
Spine surgery at UW Medicine
Sometimes, surgery is your best option to treat a spine condition, especially when nonsurgical treatment isn’t working. At UW Medicine you can have peace of mind, knowing you’ll receive care from expert surgeons. Our team is trained in the most advanced procedures and technology, including robotic-assisted procedures, minimally invasive techniques. From diagnosis to treatment, we’ve got your back.
What is a spine surgeon?
Spine surgeons are doctors that specialize in the treatment of conditions related to the spine. Spine surgeons can be trained in orthopedic or neurological surgery. To become a spine surgeon, both types of specialists receive advanced training in a variety of similar surgical procedures. Because of this, most surgeries are performed by either specialty.
Our orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons are part of the region’s only complex Level I trauma center. That means our team has experts for every type of condition – from routine to the most complex issues. We’ll match you with the surgeon who’s the right fit for your condition to provide the best possible care.
VIDEO SPOTLIGHT
Spine Surgery at Harborview
Take a look inside the Spine Center at Harborview in this short one-minute video. Learn about our expert surgical care and see our newly renovated private hospital rooms designed with your healing in mind.
Diagnosing spine conditions
Our spine surgeons use a wide range of imaging to assist in diagnosing spine conditions, including:
- X-ray – Produces images of bones of the spine
- Computed tomography (CT) – Best for imaging the bones of the spine
- CT myelography – Uses CT technology and contrast dye to evaluate for compression of spinal cord and nerves
- Electrodiagnostic testing and electromyography (EMG) – Measures the electrical activity in nerves and muscles
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – Creates images of your spine that allow for better definition of nerves, spinal cord and soft tissues
Our radiologists are board certified and specialize in neuroradiology. That means they have advanced training to examine your test results and accurately diagnose spine conditions.
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Haitao Zhou, MD
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Mahesh Karandikar, MD
As a spine surgeon, Dr. Karandikar treats simple to complex spine issues, including disk degeneration and radiculopathy (pinching of the nerves at the root).
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Imad Khan, MD
Dr. Khan is a spine surgeon who brings the latest evidence-based care to each and every patient.
Procedures we offer
Our goal is always to use the least invasive techniques required to get you back as quickly as possible to the activities you love. You can count on your surgeon to:
- Take the time to listen and answer questions
- Thoroughly investigate the cause of your symptoms
- Partner with you to develop a care plan tailored to your needs
The following are some of the most common types of surgical procedures we offer.
Robotic-assisted surgery
Our surgeons are skilled at using high-tech robotic-assisted surgery techniques to provide even more precision and safety. The surgeon controls the technology at all times and customizes the surgery to provide the best care possible.
Minimally invasive surgical techniques
Minimally invasive surgical techniques can allow for a quicker recovery. When appropriate, our surgeons can make smaller incisions using advanced technology and equipment such as a special camera to treat spinal conditions like stenosis, sciatica or herniated disks.
Endoscopic spine surgery
During endoscopic spine surgery, a surgeon uses a small, high-definition camera and other specialized tools through an endoscope to assist in repairing the spine. This allows for a smaller incision, typically less than an inch.
Decompression surgery
Decompression surgery, including discectomy and laminectomy, is designed to relieve pressure on nerves or the spinal cord. It can involve removing some of the bone, ligaments and disk material. These can often be performed as outpatient procedures, meaning you can go home the same day.
Spine fusion
This procedure connects, or welds, two or more bones in the spine to prevent movement between the bones. This procedure may reduce pain, improve alignment and provide more spinal stability. It is commonly used to treat scoliosis, an abnormal curve in the spine, or spondylolisthesis, a condition where the vertebrae (bones of the spine) are out of alignment.
Complex surgical reconstruction or revision
This type of surgery is used to correct abnormal curves of the spine, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, or to revise prior neck or back surgeries.
Fracture management
Fractures of the spine can be treated in different ways, including with nonsurgical management or:
- Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty – Minimally invasive procedures to strengthen your bone
- Surgery – Our team is experienced in treating trauma to the spine
Artificial disk replacement
This motion preserving surgery treats nerve compression in the neck. When deciding between this and other procedures, your surgeon will consider the best option for you.
Tumor or cancer surgery
Procedures to remove or shrink tumors. Examples include:
- Stereotactic radiosurgery for metastatic lesions
- Tumor excision – Surgical removal of tumors may be combined with procedures to decompress nerves and stabilize the spine
Patient story
“Surgery always comes with risk, but it also has the potential to change your life,” says Michael Fletcher. Learn about his experience and the care he received from UW Medicine spine surgeon Dr. Patel.
Spine Center at Harborview
Spine Center at Harborview
Find us in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood, just off I-5. Clinic is located inside the Ninth & Jefferson Building at 908 Jefferson St., Seattle, WA 98104. There are multiple parking options, including a garage under the building.
Referring providers can send records and imaging by fax to 206.744.9937.
Spine Center at UW Medical Center – Northwest
Spine Center at UW Medical Center – Northwest
Find us in Seattle’s Northgate neighborhood on the second floor of the Meridian Pavilion building at 11011 Meridian Ave N, Seattle, WA 98133. Free parking located under the building.
Referring providers can send records and imaging by fax to 206.363.0019.