Hassan Ali

Golden State Orthopedics & Spine cut costs and recovery time in half for patients

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (August 21, 2012)— A new surgical approach offered in California at a Contra Costa County medical practice now allows for total hip replacement on an outpatient basis, requiring only a 23 hour stay, cutting recovery time in half and potentially saving thousands of dollars per patient.

Until recently, total-hip-replacement patients had little choice but to tolerate hospital stays from three to ten days and a physical recovery period that could take up to six months, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

In contrast, ten [Learn More]

Five spine surgeons discuss the biggest challenges in spine surgery today including Steven Lee, M.D., of Golden State Orthopedics & Spine.

Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. We invite all spine surgeon and specialist responses.

Dr. Steven Lee’s take on biggest challenges in spine surgery

Curing the common problem of low back pain is the Holy Grail of our field. There are various accepted surgical treatments available to treat some of these patient based on their diagnosis. However, the majority of patients with low back pain [Learn More]

Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care.

Dr. Steven Lee of Golden State Orthopedic Specialists response:

At one of our hospitals, a few surgeons (including myself) and hospital administrators have collaborated to form an “Orthopedic Surgery Technology Committee.” We meet on a monthly basis to evaluate and discuss new technology, evidence-based guidelines, surgeon’ preferences, and fair pricing for various implants. Major contract restructuring for general orthopedic and spinal implants have been undertaken in the past two years. In my recollection, this has been the [Learn More]

Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care.

Spine Review featured five surgeons discussing the most common misconceptions patients have when coming into their office, including Dr. Steven Lee of Golden State Ortho.

Dr. Lee’s response to patient misconceptions for spine treatment:

Dubious information from the internet and direct-to-patient advertising are the two main sources of misconceptions in my practice of spine surgery.

My response to patients is to take the time to carefully state their diagnosis or diagnoses and write it down. Then at least I [Learn More]