Laser Spine Institute History

The story of Laser Spine Institute is a humble one. It began with a notion to give patients suffering from debilitating neck and back pain an alternative to traditional surgery. The idea to revolutionize neck and back surgery originated with three-Drs. James St. Louis, Glenn Hamburg and Michael Perry. The three physicians began to hash out a plan to formulate the company that would be known as Laser Spine Institute.

The surgical plan was clear and concise: help relieve neck and back pain by offering the safe and effective alternative to open neck or back surgery. The business model was proficient in detailing the soon-to-be company’s goals. Laser Spine Institute was born and was officially incorporated in November 2004 and months of hard work were ahead of the team.

Like any extraordinary work, the progress of Laser Spine Institute has occurred in marked phases. But one thing remains the same: our mission to deliver the most advanced, minimally invasive spine treatment available in the world.

Laser Spine Institute History at a Glance:

March 2005 - Laser Spine Institute officially opened March 16, 2005. Carl Karnes, the first patient of Laser Spine Institute, had surgery in March 2005. That month, with three doctors-a surgeon, anesthesiologist and internist, Laser Spine Institute helped 16 patients get their lives back, functioning with only one operating room. To this day, Karnes has found pain relief and is enjoying life.

October 2005 - Over 90 surgeries performed to date.

January 2006 - Growth from four operating rooms to six operating rooms in Tampa, Fla., and from 50 employees to 100.

January 2007 - Laser Spine Institute undertook its first national expansion with plans to grow in Scottsdale, Ariz.

January 2008 - Growth from six operating rooms to eight operating rooms, with a new surgical center opening in Scottsdale, Ariz. to serve patients in the Southwest.

March 2008 - Patients respond positively to the growth of Laser Spine Institute, and more than 100 surgeries per month are performed in Scottsdale, Ariz.

November 2009 - Laser Spine Institute expands to Philadelphia to serve patients in the Northeast.

June 2011 - A new Laser Spine Institute surgical center opens in Oklahoma City.

January 2012 - Laser Spine Institute has helped more than 30,000 patients to date and continues to be a national leader in spine care.

May 2013 - The newest Laser Spine Institute surgical center opens in Houston.

Please contact Laser Spine Institute today if you would like more information about how we may be able to help you.