Bassel G. Diebo, MD, FAAOSSpine and scoliosis surgeon
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Getting a Second Opinion for Scoliosis or Spinal Deformity

Short answer. A second opinion is reasonable before any major spine operation. It is especially worthwhile before a long fusion, an osteotomy, or a revision. Dr. Diebo's team reviews your full-length standing X-rays, MRI or CT, prior operative notes, and bone health to confirm the diagnosis and discuss all your options, including not having surgery.

Written and medically reviewed by Bassel G. Diebo, MD, FAAOS. Last reviewed November 2026.

When is a second opinion most valuable?

  • You've been told you need a fusion of several levels, or one that extends to the pelvis
  • You're considering revision surgery after an earlier fusion
  • Your symptoms and imaging don't seem to match
  • You've been told "nothing more can be done"

Adult deformity surgery carries real risk. In prospective studies, about 70% of patients had at least one complication, and about 28% needed another operation within two years. Revision cases are also common and complex. In Dr. Diebo's 2024 study, they made up 45% of adult deformity operations. A careful review of alignment goals and bone health can change the plan.

What records should I send?

  • Full-length standing X-rays (front and side) as image files, not only reports
  • MRI and/or CT images from the last 12 months
  • Operative reports and implant records from any prior spine surgery
  • DEXA scan results and a list of bone-health medicines
  • A current medication list and major medical conditions

Contact my office at (401) 443-4270 or email me at bdiebo@uoi.com, and my team will tell you how to send your images.

Does insurance cover a second opinion?

Coverage varies by plan.

Questions to ask any spine surgeon

  • What is causing my symptoms, and how sure are you?
  • What are my non-surgical options, and what happens if I wait?
  • What alignment goals are you planning, and why?
  • What is my personal risk of complications and reoperation?
  • How many of these operations do you perform each year?

Request a review: Start here · (401) 443-4270

When to see a specialist. If you are considering surgery or want another opinion, request an appointment.

Sources
  1. Diebo, Bassel G., et al. "Adult Spinal Deformity." The Lancet, vol. 394, no. 10193, 2019, pp. 160–172. PMID 31305254.
  2. Diebo, Bassel G., et al. "Defining Modern Iatrogenic Flatback Syndrome..." European Spine Journal, 2024. †
  3. Smith, Justin S., et al. "Prospective Multicenter Assessment of Perioperative and Minimum 2-Year Postoperative Complication Rates Associated With Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery." Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 2016. †

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Request a consultationCall (401) 443-4270

More background: Scoliosis Research Society patient information srs.org.