Testimonials

Haven’t seen the doctor yet but I think the consultation was fine

Dr. Smith was my 2nd opinion doctor. After living with so much pain for 2 years and thinking I could strengthen my core to reduce the pain, I finally saw Dr Smith. I had an immediate connection with him. He talked to me about my condition and explained everything in a way I could understand. I felt that I had finally found a doctor I could trust and feel safe with. At the pre-op appointment he said I could have my family there so they would be knowledgeable of why I needed the surgery. My family all thought he was amazing and they understood why I chose to move forward with the 4 hr surgery. I had 2 different things wrong and decided to just get it done all at once. I'm 6 months post-op now and I'm walking 2 miles on hills almost everyday. I workout with bands, weights, and I feel like a new person. I'm 70 but feel much younger now that Dr. Smith and Bryan have me back on track. I'm so grateful for everyone who is on his staff. They are all kind and supportive. I still have 6 months until I'm fully done with my recovery, and I look forward to that day. But for today I'm much better than I was before surgery. If you're looking for a top notch doctor who really cares and puts his patients first then look no further. Dr. Smith is the best! He's also got a good reputation within the medical profession. That says a lot!

Dr. Smith addressed all of my concerns in a very easy to understand way. He covered both the benefits and risks of my prospective treatment in a way that gave me a confidence that I will have a path forward to pain relief. He answered every one of my questions and concerns. Dr. Smith made me feel very glad to be in his care. Thanks!

I had my first Surgery with Dr Smith in 2015. I had put it off for 10 yrs and lived in constant pain. I tried everything but Surgery. Finally I couldn’t take the pain and how my life was so limited. I was referred to Dr Smith ( best referral of my life) he looked at my CT’s MRI’S and said your gonna wish you did this years ago. I’m going to take good care of you. So I scheduled my Surgery. He was right the day of my Surgery I was up walking with a walker PAIN FREE for the first time. I got stronger and stronger everyday, my pain was completely gone, I was finally able to live my life on my terms. I highly recommend Dr Smith. I started having back issues again in 2/24. It was in a completely different area. Once again I went to PT to get my back as strong as I could and saw Dr Smith. This time the pain was debilitating . It was much more severe than my last Surgery. No one wants Surgery but this was my only choice. Dr Smith explained what was happening and what needed to be done. I have so much trust in him and his Staff. They all work very closely together so you’re being monitored constantly. So I had my Surgery that was considered Major this time. That same day I was walking with a walker and the next day W/O a walker I walked around the Hospital Unit 6 times every hour. Before Surgery I was in bed 24/7. I highly recommend Dr Smith and his Staff. I’m 2 weeks Post Op now, pain free, doing PT from home, and feel great. Life is good again. Thank you Dr Smith for being an excellent Surgeon, a friend, and someone I would highly recommend ! Your staff is excellent and so easy to work with . I appreciate all of you.

These guys continue to be awesome still recovering from my back surgery but these guys still showing a lot of concern. Dr Smith continues to be great the only negative thing that I can say is he needs to learn to fish. To go out not be able to catch a fish is not good I'm going to have to take him out and show him how it's done again thank you very much.

This was my second interaction with Dr. Tyler Smith. The first involved some lower back surgery. The surgery went well and I was very favorably impressed with Dr. Smith and his team. The second was an analysis of a recent MRI of my cervical spine. I was very impressed with his knowledge and suggestions. I will continue seeing Dr. Smith for future discussions of my lumbar and cervical spine. Everything about his office staff and fellow physicians has been top rate, and I would recommend him to anyone who has back problems.

Dr. Smith listens to your concerns. He takes note of your symptoms and pain, compares that with what your MRI's and X-rays actual show. He then explains how your condition is directly causing your pain and symptoms, and then he comes up with the best plan to address your most pressing concerns, to create a plan that can get you back to living. I'm so thankful that I was referred to Dr. Smith.

Very good and He went through everything with me. I just wish I had different results ..

he's listen and care

PA Brian listened, answered all my questions.

Dr Smith was excellent. Took the time to really listen. Experience was excellent.

My experience was great. Brian took the time to show and explain my MRI results and he answered many of my detailed questions. He made sure that I had asked everything on my mind and I appreciate that. It’s rare. In addition, the staff was extremely polite.

Had my first visit with Brian. He was very thorough. I am following up with more diagnostic test to make sure that my sciatica is the main problem and that the IFuse surgery will resolve a lot of my pain. Day by day step-by-step but I do have faith in reading the reviews on Doctor Smith And his talent and professionalism.

Everyone at the office and care facilities all seemed very sincere

I was happy Dr. Smith didn't try to immediately push for surgery. He recommended epidurals and physical therapy attempts to relieve my back pain before having to resort to surgery. But he also assured me that I was his patient and if surgery was needed, he was there for me.

Just had micro lumbar discectomy. Every step leading up to my surgery was done with compassion, expertise and a thoroughness that exceeded my expectations. I specialize in dumb questions and overblown concerns and all of these were handled quickly and completely by Dr Smith"s outstanding staff. There is a reason Dr Smith has so many 5 star reviews. Both He and his staff are that excellent. Do yourself a favor and put yourself under Dr Smith's care.

Very good.

Dr Smith took the time to answered all my question and explain in detail the problem with my surgery by someone else. He told me what he could to help alleviate my problem.My husband and I left there with full confidence in Dr Smith to correct my problem.

Excellence! You never feel rushed with your appointment with Dr. Smith. I feel so fortunate that he is the doctor that did significant surgery on my back. Have had no back pain post 3 years. It was life changing surgery. I am so grateful and blessed today.

Dr Smith was awesome in help guiding me in the right direction with injury’s. He also has been huge in my Wife surgery’s. Highly recommend

Super nice! very informative and professional! Easy going and took his time being sure we didn’t have any other questions. Great knowledge and expertise.

Dr. Smith has made my journey with my back easy to understand. He answers all my questions and explains to me all the X-rays, CT's, etc. He also recommended an excellent hip surgeon, which I’ll see next month. First hip surgery then back surgery. I highly recommend Dr. Smith!

I have been blessed to land in the excellent care of Dr. Smith and Brian Z- as well as the highly professional staff at Sierra Spine Institute! My ACDF surgery is approaching quickly, and I have every confidence in Dr. Smith and Brian Z. No question has been left unanswered. My experience leading up to my surgery day has been incredibly kind and professional. Will definitely post again after my surgery.

Dr. Tyler is very professional and caring he took the time to listen to me when I explained all of my symptoms a very exceptional doctor.

Dr. Smith in our pre-op meeting took the time to answer all my questions about the scheduled surgery, post-op appt, and post-op physical therapy. Also answered my questions about two other spine issues. Had right side sciatic nerve surgery yesterday and EVERYONE at Sutter Hospital in Roseville was super friendly, helpful, patient, and caring. One day after surgery I'm sore as expected but up and walking around slowly. Hope to experience improvement moving forward. I believe Dr. Smith performed my surgery exceptionally!

I am very pleased with the outcome of my lumbar surgery and with the entire staff who were always very pleasant and quickly responsive to calls and questions. Dr. Smith and Brian Z. were both very pleasant and explained the diagnosis and proposed surgery very well. I especially appreciated the detailed "surgical expectations" including what to expect before, during, and after the surgery, and the online "Get Well Loop" that asks you to check in briefly each day to see if you are following instructions and if you are having any problems. They really do care about how their patients are preparing for and following up after their surgery. I copied this review because it said exactly what experienced at Dr. Smith’s office and the outstanding care I received.

Dr. Smith is a great guy. He's very friendly and down to earth. He explains everything in great detail. I've had 3 back surgeries with Dr. Smith and I've had good results. I trust him completely and I highly recommend him.

I am very pleased with the outcome of my lumbar surgery and with the entire staff who were always very pleasant and quickly responsive to calls and questions. Dr. Smith and Brian Z. were both very pleasant and explained the diagnosis and proposed surgery very well. I especially appreciated the detailed "surgical expectations" including what to expect before, during, and after the surgery, and the online "Get Well Loop" that asks you to check in briefly each day to see if you are following instructions and if you are having any problems. They really do care about how their patients are preparing for and following up after their surgery.

Doctor Smith was very detailed and professional, as well as caring. Took his time in explaining his opinion as to what could be done. I definitely would recommend his services.

Dr. Smith and his staff have been nothing but professional and kind! I have received the best care which is extremely important when dealing with an orthopedic issue. Highly recommend this practice to anyone!!

Dr Smith took the time to explain everything in detail. My husband and I left his office knowing what was going on with my symptoms and ways to address the issues. He was both knowledgeable and caring.

Dr. SMITH WAS EXCEPTIONAL. He spent time reviewing reports and thoroughly explained my issues. I am very happy to have been able to see Dr Smith. I look forward to receiving his expertise and am confident I will receive the best care available.

It was remote which was great

I knew from the start that Dr. Smith was the right doctor for me. Brian Z. and Dr. Smith both explained everything to me in a way that my family and I could understand. The staff are always so supportive and kind. I’m back home from the hospital now and I feel better than expected. Dr. Smith was my 2nd opinion doctor and I’m so happy that I chose him. Anyone who is thinking about having back surgery should definitely look into this amazing doctor.

Was very happy and satisfied with Dr. smith

Dr. Smith and every one of his staff members were amazing. The process was clear from the beginning, I never felt unsure or in the dark. The communication and follow up with the office via phone & email was easy & responsive. Dr. Smith is amazing and was able to preform and ACDF surgery on me with huge success. The recovery was easier than anticipated and I have no doubt that was because of his skills and his staff. Thank you isn’t enough.

Dr. Smith is a GREAT doctor, so is his staff. That says alot about a doctor. He is very caring.God Bless him and his staff, I just wanted to say hi to Angelica. Love you guys, GOD BLESS.

All my questions and concerns were answered

Dr. Smith has given me back the ability to move my arms above my waist. As well an improved my walking. 9 hr surgery, 6 layer fusion. My outcome is better than I expected. I’m still recovering and getting my movement back. Thank you, Dr. Smith.

Great Doctors and staff

My surgery went well. The nurses were great and went above and beyond during my coverage. So now I’m just going through the recovery process.

Very through in his explanations regarding my back issues. No one has every fully explained to me what was happening and why I am in pain. He was very patient and offered several treatment options which I greatly appreciated.

Dr. Smith and his staff provided exceptional care. Dr. Smith knew my case inside and out and was personable and funny. The communication was excellent, before and after surgery.

Great

Went for review of back injury. Had good results . Fracture healed . No surgery necessary. Dr. smith explained patiently and in terms easy for me to understand.

Dr Smith was very thorough , explained everything and took his time in talking with us.

wonderful surgical team. caring and kind. first few days were tough, getting my left leg to cooperate and start walking. pain expected and experienced. main reason for surgery, pain and numbness in lower back and legs, seems to be alleviated 90% in legs, 70-90% in low back. still a couple very sore spots on L + R sacoiriliac periodically. overall, things went and are going well.

Kind, caring

Great

Tha PA obviously knew exactly what needed to be done with respect to my complaint of pain and the X-rays.

I have the utmost admiration and respect for Dr. Smith, both for his expertise and for his caring and compassionate bedside manner. He is wonderful. My complaint is how inaccessible the clinic's policy makes him to his patients. For example, had I been able to see him (which I strongly requested) instead of a PA to go over my SPECT scan results, I would have been referred to a specialist 3 months earlier, instead of planning on a 2nd surgery and learning at my pre-op that it would be canceled. Even when there were complications after my first surgery, I had to consult with PA’s and wait until my 3mo follow-up to be referred for the SPECT scan. So 6 debilitatingly painful months later I am now having to start all over with another surgeon, facing more scheduling delays. If I had been able to see Dr. Smith himself the times I needed to, I would likely already be in recovery.

All the staff, both nurses and doctors, are very professional and very kind people.

My appointment was for a spinal consultation and evaluation for potential surgery. I was given undivided attention and all the time necessary to ask questions. Answers were given without pressure perform a certain procedure or not. I appreciate the time and expertise.

I saw Brian the PA. He was very thorough and took time to explain my MRI as well as the surgery at hand. Would definitely return to this office.

The minute I entered the office I felt welcomed. The atmosphere was calm and pleasant. The receptionist had to assist me with completing one of the medical forms. She was patient and kind which certainly made me feel relaxed. The meeting with Dr. Smith was professional, relaxing and his knowledge was very impressive. He took his time going over the MRI in detail with me. That was very much appreciated. I'm a newcomer to the area from the San Francisco Peninsula. I was blessed to have had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Smith. I certainly left his office knowing that I had the best care.

This was my final visit after a number of back surgeries. Everything is far better than I’d hoped. Staff so helpful, attentive and warm. Boy did I give that bell a HUGE ring. Many thanks to all of you!

Dr. Smith and his entire office were supportive and I always felt well cared for. I thank them for all they did for me

Really like Dr. Smith. I would recommend him to others.

For a very important type of surgery where the outcome depends upon multiple circumstances, Dr. T. Smith and his teams have been super-responsive pre-op, day of operation, and post-op. Any & all of my questions were addressed and answered in detail prior to surgery. All my questions and issues are being addressed in the same way after my surgery. Although recovery will take time & effort, I’ve always felt comfortable and confident whether I’m talking with Dr. Smith or any of his associated team members (including back office staff). Not a procedure to do if one can avoid it but now that I need it done, I’m very happy that these are the people taking me through this process.

It was okay except that I was under the impression that I was spending the night. It was ok we spent the night at the Holiday end. The night nurses were very nice and helpful.

I couldn’t believe I was able to get up and walk without pain

Great staff! Front desk gal was awesome and super friendly! Everyone there is very welcoming and Brian Zerlaut is a pleasure to work with! If anyone had to get some ortho work done Dr. Smith’s office is the way to go! I’m here for a second round of ortho work! 5 Stars for sure!

Very easy & convenient to have video Appt with Brian on Oct. 5th.

I was very apprehensive , confused and not sure if I’m having to submit myself to cervical disc replacement , but with my ongoing neck pain, reassurance and very calm , informative discussion with Dr I was very apprehensive, confused and not sure if I’m having to submit myself to cervical disc replacement, but with my ongoing neck pain, reassurance and very calm, informative discussion with Dr Tyler Smith, I made the right decision . The Spine Center in El Dorado is a very caring, well organized team of professionals. Highly recommended to anyone.

I never looked at the results from my Xray taken before my appt. and i expected Dr.Smith to be there. your new PA wa very nice etc. but in the report from my X-rays it mentioned possibly a loosening of some hardware and i may want to be aware of some hip problems(?). anyhow i remember her just asking how I was doing and that everything was OK. I'm sure that alls well but it didn't feel she mentioned either things from the report. I never complain about anything your office staff or team has done overall. I feel very safe with your office and team and that you've alway given nothing but the best effort I could possibly receive. Just saying and do I have to worry?

Happy

Emily was very helpful and didn’t push to make me have surgery

Thank you…!

I felt like I was in good hands with the doctor and his staff

how do i get pain pills, my left leg in constant pain, please?

Brian was very informative about my MRI and the future procedures to remove my medical issue

I'm beyond grateful for Sierra Spine Institute. I Feel like I have my life back and have no desire to sit around and waste anymore time. I'm a better mother and wife now that I'm not in pain watching life pass me by.

as in the lead up to the 2018 surgery by Dr. Tyler Smith, all of the care and concern, expressed by the staff at your medical practice was both appreciated and very genuine. I have nothing but the highest commendations and good things to say about everyone there the medical care was superb.!

Brian read my MRI and said I only needed therapy

Brian was knowledgeable and understanding. He explained the results of my MRI and provided possible interventions.

Was very fair and honest

A “second opinion”. Dr. Smith provided a clear and helpful explanation for why he would not recommend that I have spine surgery.

Emily is incredible, as is the rest of the staff. She sent me in for more testing which is good because the back pain is very very bad.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff

He is a great doctor. Very caring, and his staff is the same. They really care about their patients.

Good apt with Emily. But disappointed with my set back in my recovery still have numbness ln feet and left leg and back pain

Great

Dr. Smith and his staff put me at ease before. during and after the operation.

You can tell that Dr Smith has done this a few times already. He explained everything I needed to know before I could do the Q&A segment of our appointment. He demonstrated confidence without seeming cocky. I feel more at ease knowing that all will turn out fine.

People were very nice. They all tried to make me feel relaxed. Great experience. Would like to thank the staff for their help.

Great bedside manner. Great surgeon. I am 5 days post op and already feeling better than I have in 28 years.

I was disappointed that I couldn't get in to see Dr. Smith before October, but Emily was wonderful! Very knowledgable and it was a good experience.

Has been very good

aside from starting late - the staff and Dr Smith did an amazing job on the intake, surgery and discharge of me/my procedure. there were ALWAYS people there to ensure my comfort, answer my questions, tend to my wife's needs, etc. FIRST CLASS ACT FOR SURE!!!!!!!

I was happy with my overall experience with my surgery, even though now I am experiencing pain in my hip, and foot.

My physician worked with me to ensure the best outcome for my surgery. Post operatively, the system setup to maintain contact with the patient on a daily basis to reassure a quick and safe recovery is a great idea. Although Dr. NaPier is gone now, I would recommend this office for any spine issues.

Good experience. Staff was friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.

Friendly, reassuring, professional, knowledgeable, clear in communication. I highly recommend Dr Smith and his staff.

From intake to the wheelchair ride to the car I was impressed with the whole team. Everyone was so nice and helpful.

The office is so polite. I trust Dr. Smith and Brian totally. And they have Great bedside manners.

Very knowledgeable and professional, made me feel comfortable.

The preop appt. (2 days before surgery) was great. I was able to finally meet Dr. Smith get all my questions answered and the surgery went very well. I was impressed with the Dr.’s experience and professionalism. I recommend that one of the first appts. be with Dr. Smith. Not with a PA. This would have helped put me at ease before surgery.

completely understood how my problem was corrected, but due to the doubt that the back pain may not be relieved.

Fantastic front office support (offered cold water!) and the personal expert advice from the PA was very helpful in understanding my injury.

I met with Brian he was very supportive of me trying PRP treatment and we talked about a back up plan incase the PRP doesn’t work. Brian is like seeing a friend and he’s always professional. Dr.Smith and Brian Zerlaut are two people I trust with my back issues, Brady Too!

Everyone was so helpful! As soon as you needed help with something, someone was on the phone with you or at your door. You are great caregivers.

Very professional. Made less pain but still I never I don't know all of it

Great

Friendly and helpful staff. Dr. Smith is a good listener and has done great work for the surgeries that I needed.

After a series of pain shots over the course of 9 months from a different practice, I sought a surgical option for lower back pain. Dr Smith came highly recommended and was clear, consise, and understood my daily struggles. Great Doctor and staff participation. My rt.side L4/5 laminectomy was a great success and I'm thrilled with the outcome.

All the doctors have been caring and professional. It has been a month since my appointment, I still haven’t heard from the surgery scheduling yet. Since I’ve been waiting in limbo so long, I deducted a star

I have no memory of it. As you sent me a survey but I did not have an appointment.My husband does have a video one Mon morning

The staff is very friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. I am glad to recommend them!

The guy walks on water. Did a superb job, good guy. Skied 40 hard days this winter and shoveled 1 roofs. Without Dr. Smith I would have been home watching Kuke, La Fran and Ollie all day. I'd walk from her to New York for Dr.Smith! Gordon Hooper, Real Estate Broker, Tahoe City, Ca. 530 583 5600