The principles to be aware of when deciding if you should have spinal surgery, that could have a major impact on the outcome. There are non-operative options to improve someone's spinal function and back pain, but there are urgent indictions for back surgery. It is important to note that delaying surgury may compromise the outcome. Leading orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. David Hanscom, MD, speaks about the different variables you need to consider before you undergo spinal surgery and where you fit into the spectrum.