Spine Surgery

No — and most people don't. A great many back and neck conditions resolve with therapy, injections or time. Our first job is an accurate diagnosis; surgery is recommended only when the problem is structural and the less invasive options have been exhausted or clearly won't work. If you don't need an operation, we'll tell you that.

Smaller incisions and less disruption to the muscle and tissue around the spine, using specialised instruments and imaging guidance rather than a large open exposure. In practice that usually means less post-operative pain, a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to normal activity. It is not suitable for every case, and your surgeon will say plainly whether it is for yours.

Fusion joins two vertebrae permanently, which stops the painful motion but also removes it. Artificial disc replacement puts an implant in place of the damaged disc so the segment keeps moving. Disc replacement isn't right for everyone — it depends on the level, the condition and your overall spinal health — but where it is an option we'll discuss it with you.

It varies widely by procedure. A minimally invasive decompression may have you walking the same day and back to light activity within a couple of weeks; a multi-level fusion is a matter of months. Your surgeon will give you a realistic timeline for your specific procedure before you consent, not after.

Many patients are referred by a primary care provider, a pain specialist or an employer, but you can request a consultation directly. Check with your insurance provider for referral or prior-authorization requirements. If you have recent imaging, bring it — it often saves a visit.