Frequently Asked Questions About Spine Surgery

How do I know if I need spine surgery?

Most spinal conditions do not require surgery initially.

Surgery becomes more relevant when symptoms remain severe despite appropriate conservative treatment, when function is significantly limited, when neurological symptoms are progressing, or when imaging shows a structural problem that clearly matches the symptoms.

The decision is made by combining the clinical history, examination, imaging, and patient goals.

Is endoscopic spine surgery better than traditional surgery?

Endoscopic spine surgery can be a very good option for selected conditions, particularly some disc herniations and focused nerve compression.

However, it is not automatically better for every patient or every spinal problem.

The best operation is the one that safely and reliably treats the actual pathology with the least necessary disruption.

What is recovery like after endoscopic spine surgery?

Recovery is often faster than after traditional open surgery because there is less muscle disruption.

Many patients mobilise early, and some may go home the same day depending on the procedure and their overall health.

Return to work and activity depends on the type of work, the condition treated, and individual recovery.

Will I need to stay overnight?

Some minimally invasive procedures can be performed as day-stay surgery.

More extensive surgery, such as fusion, multilevel decompression, or complex reconstruction, usually requires a hospital stay.

This will be discussed before surgery.

Do I need a referral?

For ACC or insurance-funded care, a referral is usually required from a GP, physiotherapist, chiropractor, osteopath, or other healthcare provider.

Privately funded patients may contact the rooms directly to enquire about consultation.

What risks are involved with spine surgery?

All surgery carries risks.

General risks include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and anaesthetic complications.

Spine-specific risks may include nerve injury, persistent pain, spinal fluid leak, recurrent disc herniation, failure of symptoms to fully resolve, or in fusion surgery, non-union.

Serious complications are uncommon, but possible. The specific risks depend on the procedure and individual patient factors. These are discussed in detail before surgery.

What if I do not want surgery?

Most spinal problems can be treated without surgery.

For some patients, the problem may not be severe enough for them to consider surgery as an option. For others, surgery may simply not be something they are willing to consider, even if a reasonable surgical option exists.

As a surgeon, surgery is one of the key treatment options I consider when it is appropriate. If you would not consider surgery under any circumstances, then a better option may be to see a non-surgical specialist, such as a pain specialist, musculoskeletal specialist, or sports physician.

If this applies to you, please discuss this with your referring practitioner before arranging a surgical consultation.