The Future of Spine Surgery is Here: Less Invasive Option Now Offered At Marian Regional Medical Center

SANTA MARIA, CA – August 1, 2025 –Dignity Health Marian Regional Medical Center is proud to announce the availability of Endoscopic Spine Surgery, a leading-edge, ultra minimally-invasive procedure for treating various spinal conditions. This advanced surgical option is now offered by Matthew Schreckinger, MD, a board-certified neurosurgeon and the only surgeon in San Luis Obispo County and Northern Santa Barbara County who is performing this specialized technique.

Endoscopic Spine Surgery offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open back surgery. Using a small incision and a thin endoscope – about the size of a pencil – Dr. Schreckinger can precisely visualize and treat painful areas in the spine. This approach minimizes damage to surrounding muscles and tissues, potentially leading to faster recovery times, reduced pain, and fewer complications.

"I am dedicated to providing my patients with the most advanced and effective treatment options available," said Dr. Schreckinger. "Endoscopic Spine Surgery allows me to address spinal issues with greater precision and less disruption to the body, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and a quicker return to normal activity for my patients. I am proud to be able to offer this innovative procedure to the Central Coast community."

Endoscopic Spine Surgery offers:

• Faster recovery and return to normal activity
• Fewer postoperative complications and infections, less postoperative pain
• Potential for reduced or eliminated narcotic pain medication use
• Smaller incisions, minimizing damage to major back muscles

"The addition of Endoscopic Spine Surgery to our comprehensive spine care program further enhances our ability to provide personalized and effective treatment for a wide range of spinal conditions," said  Sue Andersen, President and CEO, Dignity Health Marian Regional Medical Center. "We are fortunate to have Dr. Schreckinger on our team, bringing his expertise and commitment to innovation to benefit our patients."

Patients experiencing back pain or spinal issues are encouraged to consult with their physician to determine if Endoscopic Spine Surgery is a suitable treatment option. For more information visit our website here.

Blue Shield of California has selected Marian Regional Medical Center as well as French Hospital Medical Center as a Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery, as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program. Learn more here. 

###

About Marian Regional Medical Center
Marian Regional Medical Center is a state-of-the-art, 191-bed medical center located in Santa Maria, California. The modern facility is home to a broad array of services including a level II trauma center, a level III neonatal intensive care unit, a nationally recognized cardiac care center, and the Central Coast’s only Comprehensive Community Cancer Program as recognized by the Commission on Cancer. Marian has been recognized for quality and patient safety and has received an “A” grade in hospital safety from the Leapfrog Group.  Learn more at dignityhealth.org/marianregional.

About Dignity Health Central Coast
Seven award-winning hospitals comprise Dignity Health Central Coast: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and St. John’s Hospital Camarillo, all recognized for their quality of care, safety, and service.

Additionally, Dignity Health Central Coast has a network of nearly 50 physician offices known as Pacific Central Coast Health Centers that include primary care, cancer care and various specialty offices. Dignity Health Central Coast also includes premier ambulatory surgery centers, technologically advanced imaging centers, outpatient services, and comprehensive home health services. Learn more at dignityhealth.org/centralcoast.

About Pacific Central Coast Health Centers
A service of Dignity Health, Pacific Central Coast Health Centers (PHC) is a non-profit Community clinic organization comprised of nearly 50 health centers located along the coast primarily from Templeton to Ventura and also in Bakersfield. Our experienced physicians and advanced practice providers offer a wide range of primary and specialty care services. PHC is a part of Dignity Health Central Coast’s award-winning network of outstanding hospitals, urgent care centers, imaging centers, laboratories, and post acute services. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/PHC