Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in Tampa, FL
You Don't Have to Settle for What's Nearby
If you've been told you need spine surgery and the options close to home don't feel right, you're not alone. Patients travel to Tampa from across the United States, from Canada, and from Central South America to receive care at 360 Ortho & Spine. What Dr. Stefan Prada offers is genuinely different, and for many patients, it's worth the trip.
A Different Approach to Spine Surgery
Dr. Prada is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 11,000 minimally invasive spinal procedures to his name. His practice focuses exclusively on the neck and back, and his approach is built around an important principle: no metal implants. Here's what that means for you:
- No fusion, no hardware. Dr. Prada's endoscopic procedures address the source of your pain without placing metal implants in your spine.
- Less pain and bleeding. Small incisions mean less disruption to the surrounding muscle and tissue.
- No loss of spinal motion. Unlike traditional fusion surgery, these procedures preserve your natural range of movement.
- Faster recovery. Most patients are back on their feet within six weeks, compared to six months or more for open surgery.
Who Travels to See Dr. Prada
360 Ortho & Spine regularly welcomes patients from throughout the United States and beyond. Our team is experienced in coordinating care for out-of-state and international patients, including those traveling from:
- The southeastern US, including Georgia, Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina
- The Midwest, including Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, and Texas
- Canada, where surgical waitlists and MRI access can stretch to six months or longer
- Central South America
We speak both English and Spanish, and our office is here to help you navigate every step of the process, from reviewing your imaging before you arrive to coordinating your care once you're here. For more information about traveling internationally for your procedure, visit our International Patients page.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your initial consultation at 360 Ortho & Spine is a 30-minute, one-on-one appointment with Dr. Prada. That means real time with your doctor, a thorough review of your imaging, and a clear conversation about your diagnosis and your options. You'll leave with answers, not more questions.
360 Ortho & Spine is a self-pay practice. Please contact our team before your visit if you have questions about fees or payment.
Ready to find out if our procedures are right for you? Request a telemedicine or in-person consultation online or call our office today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if I'm a candidate before traveling to Tampa?
Start by contacting our office to speak with our team. Once we've connected, you'll be asked to submit your completed new patient packet along with copies of your MRI and X-ray images and reports, and any operative reports, for Dr. Prada to review before your consultation. Sending records in advance allows us to evaluate your case and confirm whether a visit to our Tampa, Florida, office makes sense for your situation. Please note that submitted copies cannot be returned and may be destroyed following review.
Do you offer video consultations for out-of-state patients?
Yes! If traveling to Tampa for an initial consultation isn't practical right away, we offer video consultations for out-of-state patients. We'll need your completed new patient packet along with copies of your MRI and X-ray images and reports, and any relevant operative reports, for Dr. Prada to review beforehand. Submitted copies cannot be returned and may be destroyed after review. An in-person physical examination will be required before your procedure, and this can be completed when you arrive in Tampa for surgery.
Where is a good place to stay when visiting Tampa for my procedure?
There are several convenient, affordable hotel options near Tampa International Airport and within a 15-mile radius of our practice. When making your reservation, we recommend asking whether the room includes a freezer, as you will need one for your ice packs during your recovery period.
Should I book travel before my surgery date is confirmed?
Not yet. Please do not book flights, hotel stays, or other travel arrangements until Dr. Prada has medically cleared you and our office has confirmed a date for your procedure or consultation. Booking in advance of that confirmation can lead to unnecessary expenses and scheduling complications. Our team will make sure you have everything you need to plan your trip once a date is in place.
Do I need to bring someone with me when I come to Tampa for surgery?
Yes! All surgical patients are required to bring a care partner who is over the age of 18, physically and mentally capable of providing assistance, and able to drive or arrange a taxi or rideshare on your behalf. Please keep this requirement in mind when planning your travel, and confirm that your care partner's availability aligns with your procedure date.