Spine care evolves with faster recoveries, lower costs, and better patient experiences—led by the Coast’s most experienced and collaborative spine team
GAUTIER, MISS. — April 28, 2025 — Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists is raising the bar for spine care on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, bringing more procedures into its outpatient setting at its flagship campus in Gautier. The result: faster healing, fewer complications, and a more comfortable recovery for patients—delivered by the Coast’s most specialized and collaborative spine team.
In just two years, Bienville has increased the number of spine surgeries performed at its ambulatory surgery center from 23% to 38%, nearly doubling the national growth rate for outpatient spine care. That progress isn’t just impressive—it’s a clear signal that Bienville is leading the way in delivering next-generation care to its community.
“This is about doing what’s best for patients,” said Lee Bond, CEO of Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists. “We’re offering advanced surgical techniques, shorter recovery times, and an easier overall experience—all without asking people to leave the Coast. That’s a huge win for our patients and their families.”
A Spine Team That Works Together—for You
Bienville’s spine specialists—Christopher Burks, MD; Joseph Cox, MD; Eric Graham, MD; and Charles Winters, MD—combine extensive fellowship training, decades of experience, and a patient-first philosophy to deliver unmatched care on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. They work side-by-side, coordinating seamlessly with each other and with pain management and other subspecialties located on the same campus. That collaboration leads to better outcomes and a smoother, more connected patient experience.
“Spine care has changed,” said Dr. Cox. “We now have minimally invasive techniques, improved pain control, and smarter post-op protocols. It’s possible to do many complex procedures in an outpatient setting and get patients home the same day. And the results speak for themselves.”
Because Bienville’s outpatient surgical services are offered at its convenient flagship campus in Gautier, patients benefit from coordinated care and a simpler path from diagnosis to recovery—without the need to travel far.
Why Outpatient Surgery Matters
Outpatient spine surgery is more than a trend—it’s a meaningful improvement for patients across the board:
- Faster recovery: Most patients return home the same day.
- Fewer complications: Lower infection risk and less time in a hospital setting.
- Lower costs: Surgery at an ASC is typically 45–60% more cost-effective than at a hospital.
- Greater comfort: Recovering at home reduces stress and improves healing.
“We’ve seen that when patients can recover close to home, they heal better,” said Dr. Winters. “It’s a more familiar environment, they’re surrounded by loved ones, and we’re able to follow up more closely. That’s what good care looks like.”
Built for the Gulf Coast
Bienville’s ASC growth reflects its long-standing mission: delivering high-quality, accessible orthopedic care to the people of the Gulf Coast. With its team-based approach and commitment to innovation, Bienville is proud to offer big-city spine care right here at home.
About Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists
Founded in 1981, Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists is the Gulf Coast’s leading provider of orthopedic care. With locations across South Mississippi and a flagship campus in Gautier, Bienville offers expert treatment across a full spectrum of specialties—including spine, joint replacement, sports medicine, hand, foot & ankle, and pain management. Bienville’s team of fellowship-trained and highly experienced physicians is committed to delivering world-class care with hometown values, ensuring patients don’t have to leave the Coast to receive the best treatment available.
To learn more about outpatient spine surgery or to refer a patient, call (228) 230-2663.
