Conditions & Treatment

Treatment

A nonsurgical approach is generally the first treatment option we pursue.  We try a number of non-invasive treatments such as medications and activity modification first.  Then partially invasive options such as injections, facet blocks, and physical therapy are incorporated.  Finally, as a last resort, surgery using the most highly advanced techniques is considered.  Most surgery is done minimally invasively using a binocular microscope which provides far greater resolution and depth perception than endoscopic surgery.

Surgery

Dr. Highsmith’s surgery schedule remains flexible to accommodate patients in severe need and those who travel from far away.  He has arranged for discounts at local hotels for out-of-town patients.  He practices at Trident Hospital, Roper Hospital, St. Francis Hospital and East Cooper Regional Medical.  In the operating room, Dr. Highsmith ensures the team works smoothly and efficiently, reducing anesthesia time, blood loss and operative risk.  His conservative approach reduces tissue damage and preserves natural anatomy. 

A good functional as well as cosmetic outcome is important to our practice.  Dr. Highsmith uses plastic surgery techniques to close most incisons.  Current plastic surgery research recommends keeping your incision out of direct sunlight for a full year.  Applying products such as Scarfade® or Mederma® after the initial two weeks of healing can help reduce post-operative scarring. 

Post-operatively some patients require physical therapy to maximize their recovery.  Braces, bone stimulators and or muscle stimulators may also be used to accelerate healing and encourage physical recovery.  All patients heal at different rates so your post-operative course may be modified to allow earlier return to work than expected.