Rizzolo, orthopedic surgeon, brings spine skills to SJLH

Dr. Steven Rizzolo, orthopedic surgeon specializing in back and spine, is making back surgery and treatments for area residents more assessable.  

Rizzolo recently performed a laminectomy, which is surgery for simple disc removal or decompression, locally at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.  

“This was a colossal accomplishment for our hospital and our surgery department,” said Christine Hickman, Manager of Surgical Services at St. John’s.  

“It speaks volumes for Dr. Rizzolo’s confidence in our surgical team, and it is just one more specialty service we can offer locally saving our patients the time and expense of travel.”

“Until now, surgeries like laminectomy could only be performed in Kalispell, but with Dr. Rizzolo coming to Libby two Fridays a month, more surgical services can be offered,” added Hickman.

Dr. Rizzolo, Board Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and the American Board of Spine Surgery, is one of many specialists who travel to Libby to meet with patients.  

When asked why he has expanded his practice to our area Dr. Rizzolo responded, “I want to be able to provide improved access to specialty care in a local environment and make it easier for patients to receive care.  

“There are outpatient and overnight procedures like injections and small lumbar lower back procedures that can be done here in Libby, and I’m happy to be able to provide that for local patients.  I am also grateful to the local medical community for the support that they’ve given me.”  

KC Hoyer, SJLH Marketing Manager, said the hospital is always looking to improve. 

“We realize that there is a real need to continue to expand our service base for the ever-changing healthcare needs of our communities.  Bringing in specialties is one way to do it,” said Hoyer.  

For more information, call  283-7000.