Getting seen
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required to be evaluated. Some insurance plans require one for coverage purposes — check your plan, and the office can help you sort this out when you schedule. Workers' compensation cases follow the authorization process for your claim.
What insurance do you accept?
Most major insurance plans are accepted, along with workers' compensation and personal injury cases. Contact the office with your specific plan and we'll confirm before your visit.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Any imaging you have (MRI, CT, X-ray — ideally the actual images on disc or via electronic access, not just the report), a list of treatments you've already tried, your medication list, and your insurance information. If you've seen another surgeon, bring their recommendation too.
Do you offer second opinions?
Yes — second opinions are a core part of the practice, and welcomed. See the Second Opinions page for what a visit includes and what to bring.
Treatment philosophy
Will you just recommend surgery?
No. Most patients Dr. Pompliano evaluates are treated without an operation. The practice is built conservative-first: physical therapy, activity modification, injections, and other non-operative options are genuinely explored before surgery is discussed — unless there are urgent findings that call for a different conversation. When surgery is recommended, you'll hear exactly why, what it involves, and what the alternatives are.
Do I need an MRI before I'm seen?
Not necessarily. If you have recent imaging, bring it. If not, the evaluation determines whether imaging is needed — not every neck or back problem requires an MRI on day one.
What is minimally invasive spine surgery?
Techniques that accomplish the same surgical goal through smaller incisions with less muscle disruption — typically meaning less early pain, shorter hospital stays, and a faster return to activity. Dr. Pompliano is fellowship-trained in minimally invasive spine surgery and uses these approaches whenever the diagnosis allows.
What is artificial disc replacement, and am I a candidate?
Instead of fusing a damaged segment, an artificial disc preserves motion at that level. It's an excellent option for selected patients — particularly in the neck — and a special focus of Dr. Pompliano's practice. Candidacy depends on your anatomy, diagnosis, and imaging, which is exactly what the evaluation determines.
Do you use robotic surgery?
Robotic assistance and computer navigation are used when they add real precision to your specific operation — most often in fusion and reconstruction procedures. Technology enhances precision; judgment determines its use.
Logistics & cases
Do you see workers' compensation and personal injury patients?
Yes. The practice accepts workers' compensation and personal injury cases and prioritizes the timely evaluations, objective documentation, and responsive communication these cases require. See Workers' Comp & Personal Injury.
How soon can I be seen?
The practice prioritizes timely access, particularly for new injuries, progressive symptoms, and second opinions. Contact contact@pomplianospine.com to schedule.
Can Dr. Pompliano answer my medical question by email or social media?
No — patient-specific medical advice can't responsibly be given without an evaluation, and content on this site and on social media is educational only. If you have symptoms that concern you, schedule a visit; if they're urgent, seek emergency care.
This page is for education only and is not medical advice. Every spine condition is different — an accurate diagnosis requires an in-person evaluation, imaging review, and physical examination.