About Me

My photo
Dr. Kleeman is a board-certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery. He has devoted his career to the innovation and advancement of minimally invasive spine surgery. He is known internationally for his pioneering work on laparoscopic spine surgery and has served as presenter and faculty for spine courses hosted by The North American Spine Society, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery, and the Cleveland Clinic. He was the founder of the New Hampshire Spine Institute which went on to become the New Hampshire NeuroSpine Institute. His research interests have included minimally invasive spine surgery, artificial spinal disc replacement and alternative spinal fusion bone grafts including recombinant human DNA as well as adult stem cells.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Treatment Options

There are many options for treatment of back pain. The specific treatment depends on an
accurate diagnosis. When conservative treatment fails, surgical options are often discussed.


When it comes to surgery the goal should be to perform the procedure with the least disruption
of muscles by using smaller incisions and less removal of structural tissue without jeopardizing
the precision.

Two advances that have improved surgical outcomes are the development of minimally invasive
surgery and surgical navigation.

Learn about these techniques:

Get a Second Opinion

Dr. Kleeman receives requests from patients all over the country to look at their records and radiographic studies to see if they are a candidate for this type of surgery. Dr. Kleeman reviews the medical records and diagnostic studies and then sets up a telephone interview if the patient seems to be a good candidate for this type of surgery. If the patient is then interested in having the surgery performed by Dr. Kleeman, arrangements can made for them to travel to Manchester, New Hampshire.

If you are interested in having a second opinion from Dr. Kleeman, here is what to do:
1. Download the Patient Information Form and fill it out as completely as you can.
2. Get copies of all of your pertinent doctor's notes, prior surgery records, test reports, etc.
3. Have copies made of your x-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or other tests and if possible have them put on a CD.
4. Include contact information (with email if possible) including how and when to best reach you.
5. Send information to:
Thomas J. Kleeman, MD
NH NeuroSpine Institute
4 Hawthorne Drive
Bedford, NH 03110
Tel: 603.472.8888
Fax: 603.472.9090
www.nhneurospine.com

Direct Lateral Interbody Fusion


Watch Dr. Kleeman perform this surgical procedure which gives a clear
picture of DLIF surgery.

Thomas J. Kleeman, M.D.