Becoming a spine surgeon requires four years of medical school, four years of residency, and one to two years in a fellowship program. A bachelor’s degree in premedical studies, biology, or a related subject is recommended. After graduation, a physician can apply for residency positions in neurological or orthopedic surgery, and then pursue a fellowship to become a spine surgeon.
Most surgical procedures involving the spine are inherently delicate and difficult, and require the expertise and steady hands of a highly trained professional. A person desiring to become a spine surgeon is typically required to complete four years of medical school, four years of medical residency, and one or two years in a fellowship program. Additionally, it is necessary for an individual to pass a series of licensing and certification exams to obtain the necessary credentials.
To prepare for medical school, a person wanting to become a spine surgeon can earn a bachelor’s degree in premedical studies, biology, or a related subject from an accredited university. Undergraduate students often take multiple courses in human anatomy, physiology, cognitive science, and biology to gain a detailed understanding of the human body. Mathematics, computer science and communication classes are also important for developing the skills needed to succeed in the healthcare field.
Toward the end of a bachelor’s degree program, an individual can take a national medical school admissions test and begin submitting applications to respected medical schools. A medical student who wants to become a spine surgeon can opt for a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO). Both programs involve four to five years of intensive classroom study and clinical placements. In addition, students often participate in detailed research projects that focus on some element of pathology, physiology, or surgical techniques.
After graduating, a new physician can apply for residency positions in neurological or orthopedic surgery. A person who wants to become a spinal surgeon can benefit from both programs, but most practitioners choose the neurology option to gain specialized knowledge about disorders of the nervous system. As a resident, a doctor often has the chance to assist and observe qualified surgeons as they work on real patients. Most residents also attend regular courses and continue to conduct independent research. Typically, a surgeon passes a licensing exam administered by a national board of trustees upon completion of a residency.
Many surgeons begin their independent careers after gaining specialist credentials in neurology or orthopedics, but a person who wants to become a spine surgeon will usually need to pursue an additional fellowship for one to two years. The Brotherhood’s training consists primarily of performing spinal surgery under the supervision of experienced surgeons. An individual who excels during their scholarship can take a final licensing exam to officially become a spine surgeon.
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