TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Laser Spine Institute announced on Friday it is closing all of its doors.

Reportedly 500 employees were told Friday.

A press released said despite “significant” cost-saving activities over the past 6 months, the company was unable to achieve a financially stable path.

All locations in Tampa, Cincinnati, Scottsdale and St. Louis will close.

Jake Brace, Laser Spine Institute’s CEO issued the following statement:

“My heart goes out to our great, dedicated staff who have stuck with us through all of our adversity and worked so tirelessly to help us right the ship. We celebrate their efforts to keep the company going, as well as their great track record of providing nearly 100,000 surgical procedures, thereby helping patients afflicted with chronic neck and back problems quickly and effectively regain their prior lives.”

News Channel 8 spoke with Kurt Loosenort, a patient who flew in on Friday for a Tuesday procedure, only to find out it had been cancelled.

“I’ve got some pretty bad leg issues,” Loosenort said.

“We’re heard such amazing things about Laser Spine. Precise diagnosis, precise procedures. We had hope for fast cure, fast recovery.”

Loosenort said he even had even pre-operation tests Friday morning.

“Doors closed. Here and everywhere Laser Spine is done. The woman who told us actually cried. She said she was sad for us and many other patients.”