FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
The questions that come up before a first appointment, answered plainly.
FAQs
Find Your Answers Below
01 What types of spinal issues does Dr. Hashmi treat?
Dr. Hashmi treats a wide range of spinal issues, including but not limited to: endoscopic spinal surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, spinal decompression surgery, herniated discs including thoracic, spinal fusion surgery, anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), prone lateral interbody fusion (PTP), TLIF and PLIF surgeries, disc replacement, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine surgeries, scoliosis and spinal deformities, revision and failed spine surgery reconstruction, robotic spine surgery, spinal trauma surgery, and spine tumors.
02 What should I expect during my first appointment?
During your first appointment, Dr. Hashmi will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and conduct a thorough physical examination. He may also recommend imaging studies to better understand your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.
03 What surgical techniques does Dr. Hashmi use?
Dr. Hashmi uses both traditional open surgery and minimally invasive techniques to address patient-specific spinal pathologies, including robotic spine surgery and endoscopic procedures where appropriate.
04 I was told there are no further surgical options. Is a second opinion worth it?
It may be. Complex reconstruction and revision surgery is a significant part of this practice, and Dr. Hashmi often receives referrals from other Southern California spine surgeons for challenging cases. A second opinion begins with a review of your prior operative reports and imaging alongside your current studies. If surgery is not likely to help, you will be told so.
05 Will I need surgery?
Not necessarily. Many spinal conditions are managed without an operation, and non-surgical care is considered first when it is appropriate. Surgery is discussed when there is a structural problem that surgery can address, and treatment is individualized to your examination and imaging rather than to a general protocol.
06 How can I schedule an appointment with Dr. Hashmi?
You can request a consultation through this site, or contact the academic office at (714) 456-7801 or the patient appointments line at (714) 456-7012. You can also visit the UCI Health website for more information and to request an appointment online.
07 What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your photo ID, your insurance card, any relevant medical records, and a list of your current medications. If you have had imaging or previous spine surgery, bring the images themselves along with any operative reports.
08 What are your office hours?
The office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and is closed on weekends and public holidays.
09 Do you accept insurance?
A variety of insurance plans are accepted. Please contact the office to verify whether your insurance is accepted and to get more details about coverage.
10 How long is recovery?
Recovery varies by procedure, by condition and by patient. Minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques are associated with less tissue disruption and, for many patients, a quicker return to daily activities than traditional open surgery. Your own expected timeline is discussed with you before you decide on treatment.
11 Can another physician refer a patient?
Yes. There is a referral pathway for surgeons and referring physicians on this site. For an urgent inpatient transfer, contact the UCI Health Transfer Center at (714) 456-2222, which is staffed 24 hours a day.
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Request a consultation through this site, or call the patient appointments line directly. Referring physicians have a separate pathway.