Robert H.

48-year-old Robert H. came to Westside Hospital suffering from sharp back pain. After meeting Dr. Ritter, a neurosurgeon here at Westside, he underwent Lumbar Spinal Surgery Fusion, a procedure used to treat lower back pain. Here’s what he had to say:

“Initially, I didn't know I was going to have surgery. I was having sharp back pain that had been progressively getting worse over the last few months. Dr. Ritter made a very scary situation much better. By really paying attention and looking into everything that had to do with the pain I was feeling, he was able to find the best scenario for me. At first, they thought I would have to undergo a big procedure which was extremely frightening to me. However, Dr. Ritter understood my fears and did everything he could to find me an alternative option. By looking into it further, he was able to reduce it to a less invasive surgery, which honestly meant everything to me. He also always kept me informed at all times because he wanted me to feel comfortable. Between Dr. Ritter, Dr. Hirsch and all of the other caregivers at Westside, they truly did make me feel so comfortable. They answered all of my questions and didn't sugarcoat anything. They spoke to me in layman terms to make sure I understood exactly what was going on. Nurses Maria and Anne were also phenomenal and I can’t thank them enough. Today, after my procedure, I'm already feeling much better and have been able to manage my pain. Although it does take a little while to be fully recovered, I can already feel so much better and that’s thanks to Dr. Ritter and the great team at Westside.” — Robert