This database was last updated in July 2015 and is based on data from 2009 to 2013. It should only be used as a historical snapshot.
STEPAN KASIMIAN
- 3831 HUGHES AVE, SUITE 105, CULVER CITY,
CALIFORNIA
90232-2751 | 310-859-3422
(address information updated July 30, 2009)
How we calculated these rates: Guided by top researchers and doctors, ProPublica used Medicare data from 2009-2013 to identify cases where a patient died in the hospital or had to be readmitted within 30 days for a problem related to one of these elective procedures. We then calculated complication rates for surgeons, carefully accounting for differences in patient health, age and hospital quality. These rates are calculated using data from Medicare records, which do not include patients with private insurance or in another program like Medicaid. A surgeon’s rate spans all hospitals at which he or she operates and is not unique to a given hospital. Read our methodology »
Lumbar Spinal Fusion, Posterior Column and Approach
Fusing two or more vertebrae in the lower back; performed on the back of the spine, incision in the back (ICD-9-CM code 81.07)
The fusing of two or more vertebrae in the lower back, performed on the back portion of the spine. One of the most common reasons is the narrowing of the space between the vertebrae, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain. It can also be done because of disc degeneration or a condition where one bone in the back slides forward over the bone below it. More information 
Lumbar Spinal Fusion, Anterior Column, Posterior Approach
Fusing two or more vertebrae in the lower back; performed on the front of the spine, incision in the back (ICD-9-CM code 81.08)
The fusing of two or more vertebrae in the lower back, performed on the front portion of the spine. One of the most common reasons is the narrowing of the space between the vertebrae, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain. It can also be done because of disc degeneration or a condition where one bone in the back slides forward over the bone below it. More information
Cervical (Neck) Spinal Fusion
Other cervical fusion of the anterior column, anterior technique (ICD-9-CM code 81.02)
The fusing of two or more vertebrae of the neck, using orthopedic devices to hold them in place. Age-related breakdown or displacement of the spinal discs in the neck. More information