TREATMENTS
Spinal Fusion Alternatives
in Palm Beach County



Alternatives to Spinal Fusion: Minimally Invasive & Non-Surgical Solutions for Back Pain Relief
Chronic back pain can be debilitating. This pain can be so persistent that it completely transforms life as you once knew it into a very limited every day - walking up stairs, riding in the car, grocery shopping - activities that we normally take for granted can become very taxing.
Pain can remain within the low back (axial) or radiate out to the hips and down the legs and feet. When this pain becomes chronic it can become overwhelming and exhausting. Many people experience chronic pain as a result of disc herniation and/or degeneration of intervertebral discs as a result of aging. Although these conditions may be troublesome, there is hope for relief with a number of new and innovative treatments offered as spinal fusion alternatives in Palm Beach County.
Although the traditional approach to treating disc herniation and diseased or damaged intervertebral discs has been to perform spinal fusion surgical procedures, there are now more dynamic and advanced techniques available to patients. Previously, during a spinal fusion surgery, the intervertebral bones were bonded together during a procedure that would require an overnight stay in the hospital and leave the patient with less mobility than the natural spine originally allowed for. Alternatively, minimally invasive surgery can reduce blood loss and post-operative recovery time.
Understanding Back Pain
Any pain that is sourced in the spine and lasts over a period of multiple weeks may be cause for concern as chronic back pain. A pulled muscle or strain is common, but will not persist after a shorter amount of time. Some major contributors of chronic back pain are:
DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE
Degenerative disc disease is a leading cause of chronic back pain in older patients. It occurs from normal “wear and tear” when an intervertebral disc is degraded over time.
DISC HERNIATION
A herniated disc can happen to anyone. When the inner layer of the disc extrudes out through a hole in the outer layer of the disc, it can put pressure on nerve roots which can cause pain, numbness or weakness.
STENOSIS
Spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal, can lead to back pain, radiating buttock or leg pain, and/or numbness or weakness in the legs. This common condition may necessitate procedures like epidural steroid injections or spinal fusion surgery. However, less invasive alternatives can also be effective for managing pain associated with spinal stenosis.
FACET JOINT ARTHRITIS
Degeneration of the facet joints of the lumbar spine may be a cause of axial back pain in a small percentage of patients.
SPONDYLOLISTHESIS
This is a slippage of one vertebral body over another, leading to spinal instability.
A traditional spinal fusion bonds two vertebral bones together permanently. This can cause problems later as the surrounding vertebrae are then supporting additional pressure. Spinal fusion also limits mobility as the spine will no longer be as flexible in that area, and will not move in the same way as it once did. Alternatively, more advanced procedures such as lumbar total disc replacement can be an excellent alternative to fusion.
Why is disc replacement considered top among alternatives to spinal fusion for spondylolisthesis?
Total disc replacement– Surgical treatment is where an intervertebral disc nucleus on the upper back or head is replaced by artificially formed discs made with plastic composite material. Usually it is placed on vertebrae and it leaves the annulus and face intact in the disc - and intact. The spacer helps prevent collapse, and keeps the patient active and mobile. Artificial disc replacement may occur after spinal disc injuries are beyond repair. For several reasons, disk replacement has emerged as an excellent alternative to spinal fusion in spondylolisthesis.
Is a Spinal Fusion the Right Treatment for Me?
Spinal health is important to your body your entire life - consulting a doctor about the right spinal treatment for your condition is imperative. A fusion may not be the right option for you if your goal is to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. There are alternatives to spinal fusions, and considering the long-term effects of your spinal surgery decision is important - it could have an impact on the rest of your life.





Exploring Minimally Invasive Techniques
Minimally invasive surgery is a way of performing spinal surgery which involves reducing the amount of damage to soft tissue (muscle). Minimally invasive surgery techniques can be used for decompression, microdiscectomy even spinal fusion.
PAIN RELIEF
In the last 20 years, many spinal surgeons have come to prefer minimally invasive surgery to traditional (open) surgery, like a spinal fusion, because although the long term outcome may be similar, it can often result in a quicker recovery.
ADVANCED IMAGING TECHNOLOGIES
Imaging technology has advanced dramatically in recent years, and doctors are now able to identify problem areas more clearly. These visual aids allow for doctors to make more precise incisions and to target the damaged or diseased areas before surgery to then make a more accurate diagnosis for patients.
Artificial Disc Replacement
During an artificial disc replacement surgery, a surgeon will remove a damaged or diseased disc and replace it with an artificial one. This disc will be made of medical-grade plastic or titanium alloy and is beneficial for restoring alignment to the spine and it also allows the spine to remain flexible and keep its natural range of motion.
There are several misconceptions about the safety of an artificial disc replacement surgery. The most common misconception is that someone can be too old for an artificial disc replacement surgery. In our opinion, age it not the primary determinant of whether a patient is a candidate for artificial disc replacement surgery and Dr. Cuéllar has performed this surgery many times on patients in their 80’s.


Regenerative Medicine for Spinal Conditions
Dr. Cuellar offers A2M or, “Alpha 2 Macroglobulin” injections, an extracellular macromolecule, to treat pain. This relief occurs as the injection neutralizes destructive enzymes in the bloodstream.
The protein molecule in A2M keeps our cartilage healthy. A2M injections offer a new way to treat chronic inflammation around joints and other areas of the body where cartilage has become worn, and everyday scientific study progresses in this field and the way we use A2M injects to treat spinal conditions.
How can regenerative medicine serve as an effective alternative to spinal fusion for back pain?
Regenerative medicine, such as A2M (Alpha 2 Macroglobulin) injections, serves as an effective alternative to spinal fusion by promoting natural healing and reducing inflammation. A2M is a protein molecule that neutralizes destructive enzymes in the bloodstream, helping to maintain healthy cartilage and alleviate chronic inflammation. This treatment targets the root causes of back pain without the need for invasive surgery. Dr. Cuéllar’s expertise in regenerative medicine offers patients a cutting-edge approach to managing pain and improving spinal health, making it a viable alternative to traditional spinal fusion procedures.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
There are a number of ways to treat chronic back pain that do not involve surgery, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture. These treatment options offer patients non-invasive solutions to relieve pain, strengthen their spines and improve mobility.

PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES
PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES
PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES
PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES
“Attentive, knowledgeable, professional, and treats every patient with individual care! Saved my dad’s life with his minimally invasive procedure and his mindfulness of the medication my father was on before procedure. Thank you Dr. Cuéllar!”
- Eleena H.
PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES
“I had my consult with Dr. Cuellar yesterday and I was very happy with my visit. The consultation was to discuss a potential surgery that would be pretty extensive/ significant. So it was important to me to have an understanding and compassionate provider. Dr. Cuellar did just that.
He had a great way of balancing his intelligence, understanding, and patience and I did not feel as though he was talking 'at me' or 'down to' me. He was allowing me to actively participate in the conversation (unlike most providers I have dealt with in the past). I was able to go through all of my imaging with him and he explained everything thoroughly. He was not trying to persuade me to do the surgery or push me into anything.
If I do decide to do the spinal revision and artificial disc replacement surgery it will most definitely be with him. His staff, Rachel in particular, was also extremely helpful with scheduling and she was prompt with all of her emails and correspondences with me. So far, nothing but good things to say about my visit with Dr. Cuellar”
- F.Q.

Why Choose Dr. Cuéllar for Spinal Fusion Alternatives
Dr. Cuéllar is a top spinal surgeon in Palm Beach County for alternatives to spinal fusion due to his extensive expertise and personal experience with spinal disorders. He offers both surgical and non-operative treatments, including artificial disc replacement and regenerative medicine, stemming from his own 20-year journey with chronic back pain and failed surgeries. Dr. Cuéllar's commitment to a holistic, patient-centric approach makes him a trusted choice for individuals seeking comprehensive care, whether surgical or non-surgical, for their spinal conditions.
Lifestyle, genetics and pre-existing conditions all play a part in selecting the right treatment for your back pain. By using the right imaging tools and by providing a thorough physical examination, your surgeon can guide you to the treatment that is best suited for your needs.
Find answers to treating your spinal condition with Dr. Cuéllar and his devoted staff. Our personalized advice will help you make one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make for your body and for your future.
Find a solution to your back and neck pain management with Dr. Cuéllar. Call us for a consultation today.
Dr. Jason Cuellar came to the field of spinal surgery after needing to address his own spinal condition and back pain, which eventually led him to need spinal surgery with a lumbar artificial disc replacement. Dr. Cuéllar is a highly specialized, sought after spinal surgeon, whose expertise has changed the lives of many patients over the years. He is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with affiliations to Cedar-Sinai Spine Center of Excellence and Lanman Spinal Neurosurgery. Dr. Cuéllar is a pioneer spinal surgeon and has had excellent outcomes from his artificial disc replacements with his patients.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I avoid a spinal fusion?
Absolutely, you can often avoid a spinal fusion. There are several minimally invasive and non-surgical alternatives available that can effectively treat chronic back pain. Techniques such as artificial disc replacement, regenerative medicine injections like A2M, and non-invasive therapies like physical therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture offer viable options. Consulting with a specialized spinal surgeon, such as Dr. Cuéllar, can help you explore these alternatives to find the best treatment tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle.
Who is not a good candidate for spinal fusion?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for spinal fusion. Individuals who prioritize maintaining a high level of spinal mobility or those with specific lifestyle needs may find spinal fusion too restrictive. Patients with certain medical conditions or those who prefer non-invasive treatments might also consider alternatives. Conditions affecting the cervical spine, such as cervical disc replacement or discectomy operations, may influence whether a patient is a good candidate for spinal fusion. Dr. Cuéllar’s comprehensive evaluation, including advanced imaging and a thorough physical examination, helps identify whether spinal fusion or an alternative treatment is more suitable for your condition.
How common is a failed spinal fusion?
Failed spinal fusion, also known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), can occur, though it is relatively uncommon. The likelihood of a failed spinal fusion depends on various factors, including the patient’s overall health, the complexity of the spinal condition, and the precision of the surgical technique. Dr. Cuéllar’s expertise and patient-centric approach aim to minimize the risk of failure by offering advanced surgical techniques and thorough pre-operative planning.
Why should I consider an alternative to spinal fusion?
Considering alternatives to spinal fusion is important for maintaining spinal flexibility and reducing the risks associated with more invasive procedures. Alternatives such as artificial disc replacement, minimally invasive surgeries, and regenerative medicine offer quicker recovery times and preserve the natural movement of the spine. Dr. Cuéllar’s extensive experience with these innovative treatments ensures that patients receive the most effective and least disruptive care for their spinal conditions.
Can minimally invasive surgery provide the same relief as traditional spinal fusion?
Yes, minimally invasive surgery can provide similar, if not better, relief compared to traditional spinal fusion. Techniques such as microdiscectomy and decompression surgery reduce damage to surrounding tissues, leading to faster recovery and less post-operative pain. These procedures, combined with advanced imaging technologies, allow for more precise targeting of damaged areas, ultimately offering effective pain relief and improved outcomes.
What are the benefits of artificial disc replacement over spinal fusion?
Artificial disc replacement offers several benefits over spinal fusion, including preserving the spine's natural range of motion and preventing additional stress on adjacent vertebrae. This procedure involves replacing a damaged disc with a medical-grade artificial one, which helps maintain spinal flexibility and alignment. Dr. Cuéllar’s expertise in performing artificial disc replacements ensures patients experience significant improvements in mobility and pain relief, making it an excellent alternative to traditional fusion.
IN THE MEDIA






The Latest News, Highlights,
and Insights from Dr. Cuéllar
Our Locations
PALM BEACH COUNTY
PALM BEACH GARDENS
4362 Northlake Blvd, Suite 209
11:30 AM – 7:00 PM Monday-Friday