Frequently Asked Questions — Chosen Spine and Neuro

FAQ's
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What conditions does Dr. Cho treat?

Dr. Cho specializes in spine conditions (herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, spondylolisthesis, compression fractures, spinal tumors, SI joint dysfunction), brain and cranial conditions (brain tumors, Chiari malformation), and peripheral nerve conditions (carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome).

Yes. Dr. Cho uses minimally invasive techniques whenever clinically appropriate. Minimally invasive approaches can allow smaller incisions, less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.

It depends on your insurance plan. Some plans (such as HMOs) require a referral from your primary care physician. PPO plans typically do not. If you’re unsure, call our office and our team will help verify your requirements.

Bring your photo ID, insurance card(s), a list of current medications, any relevant imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray), referral paperwork if required, and a list of questions for Dr. Cho.

FAQ's
SURGERY QUESTIONS
How do I know if I need spine surgery?

Dr. Cho takes a conservative-first approach. He will thoroughly evaluate your condition and always explore non-surgical options before recommending surgery. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments have been exhausted and a specific structural problem is identified that surgery can address.

Recovery varies by procedure, but minimally invasive surgery generally allows faster recovery than open surgery. Many patients go home the same day or the next morning, return to desk work within 1–2 weeks, and resume normal activities within 4–8 weeks. Dr. Cho’s team provides detailed recovery instructions specific to your procedure.

It depends on the procedure. Some fusion surgeries require a brace for 8 to 12 weeks for support. Decompression-only procedures and many minimally invasive surgeries do not. Dr. Cho will provide specific guidance based on your situation.
FAQ's
SECOND OPINION QUESTIONS
How does the $95 second opinion work?

Upload your imaging study, e.g. MRI, CT myelogram, through our secure platform, share a brief summary of your symptoms and diagnosis, and pay $95 online. Dr. Cho will personally review your imaging and provide his expert guidance by phone or secure email within 24–48 hours. No office visit required.

No. The second opinion service is a focused review of your imaging and clinical information. It’s designed to help you make a more informed decision about a recommended surgery. It does not replace a formal in-person consultation or establish a doctor-patient relationship.

Yes. The service is fully remote. Patients from anywhere in Texas and beyond can submit their imaging and receive Dr. Cho’s expert review.

If Dr. Cho believes an in-person evaluation would be beneficial, he’ll let you know and our team will help schedule a formal appointment. The $95 fee covers the second opinion review only — any office visit would be separate and billed through your insurance.
FAQ's
INSURANCE & BILLING QUESTIONS
What insurance plans do you accept?

Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Healthsmart, Humana, Medicare, Multiplan, Prime Health, Triwest, United, Wellcare, and others. Our team can verify your coverage before your appointment — call (346) 625-4300.

Yes, Chosen Spine and Neuro accepts Medicare.

Payment plans may be available for certain procedures. Please contact our billing team to discuss your options.