Drew Dossett, MD, recently performed spinal fusion on Texas Rangers pitcher Matt Harrison, according to a Texas Rangers news report.
Here are five things to know about the procedure:
1. Dr. Dossett performed spinal fusion on Mr. Harrison, who announced severe nerve damage in his lower back last month. At the time, the team said surgery was a possibility. Mr. Harrison is expected to stay in the hospital for two days after surgery and then begin his recovery. The procedure was performed at The Carrell Clinic in Dallas.
2. Mr. Harrison will miss the remainder of the season, and this surgery could end his career as a professional pitcher. According to the report, "chances of recovery from this kind of surgery to the point where Harrison could pitch again are not good."
3. Dr. Dossett performed spine surgery on Mr. Harrison twice last year to repair a herniated disc. Mr. Harrison's career includes a 32-win season with the Rangers in 2011 to 2012, but he missed most of the games over the past two seasons because of back problems.
4. As a consultant for the Texas Rangers, Dr. Dossett performed spine surgery on the team's slugger Prince Fielder in May as well. Mr. Fielder will also miss the remainder of the season after his procedure to repair a herniated disc. Dr. Dossett is also a consultant for the National Football League and performed spine surgery on Dallas Cowboy's quarterback Tony Romo in December 2013.
5. There are few studies on the impact of spine surgery on professional baseball players. Several studies exist showing National Football League players return to play after spinal surgery for herniated discs, even returning to the same level of play depending on the position. However, the biomechanics associated with each sport is different and require separate skills to compete at the professional level.
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