Preparing for spine surgery
What I wish every patient knew before spine surgery
- Author: Dr Shanu Gambhir
- First published:
“Many patients are still quite worried and scared when it comes to spine surgery. They’ve heard horror stories, but the reality is very different today.”
Dr Shanu Gambhir
Neurosurgeon Sydney
Quick links
Preparing for spine surgery in Sydney
The biggest misconception about spine surgery
When people first come to see me as a neurosurgeon and spine surgeon in Sydney, it’s common for them to feel uncertain about what spine surgery might involve. Many have heard stories of long recoveries or serious risks, and it’s natural to feel cautious when the spine is such an important part of the body.
The good news is that modern techniques like endoscopic and robotic spine surgery have changed things dramatically, making surgery safer, less invasive, and recovery much quicker.
“The truth is that with the training we have, the technology we use, and the shift towards less invasive techniques like endoscopic spine surgery, the risk of major complications is low.”
Dr Shanu Gambhir
Neurosurgeon Sydney
So, spine surgery is far safer and more effective than most people think. The challenge is often not the surgery itself, but to make the correct diagnosis and carefully selecting the best treatment plan for the patient.
“When people ask me what the hardest part of spine surgery is, they often expect me to talk about pain and recovery times. But honestly, with the rise of endoscopic spine surgery, patients are often up and walking the same day and recovering far quicker than before.”
Dr Shanu Gambhir
Neurosurgeon Sydney
Another important part is choosing the right type of spine surgery for the right patient. There are many different procedures available: open surgery, minimally invasive surgery, endoscopic decompression, robotic-assisted fusion and part of my job is making sure we never rush into surgery and always select the best option for your individual case.
How you can prepare for spine surgery
Preparing for spine surgery means taking a few simple but important steps, which we’ll go through together during your consultation:
- Tell us about any changes in symptoms: this can affect the surgical planning.
- Stop certain medications like blood thinners.
- Take it easy before and after surgery: no heavy lifting or bending until I’ll let you know it’s safe to do so.
With endoscopic spine surgery, most patients are back to their normal activities surprisingly quickly. But it’s still important to be sensible during the first few days of recovery.
And then of course, there’s the psychological aspect. Often people are anxious, and I totally get that.
Part of my role is to help ease that fear by being transparent and reassuring.
“I show patients their scans, explain what I’ll be doing, and reassure them that the risks are rare. Most of what we treat is common and very safe with modern techniques.”
Dr Shanu Gambhir
Neurosurgeon Sydney
Over time, I’ve come to realise that being a great spine surgeon is not just about operating; it’s also about listening, understanding, and supporting patients through one of the most stressful times of their lives.
Spine surgeon Sydney | Dr Shanu Gambhir
“It doesn’t need to be frightening”
Spine surgery can be life-changing, but it doesn’t need to be frightening. With modern techniques like endoscopic spine surgery and robotic-assisted spine surgery, recovery is quicker, pain is less, and outcomes are better than ever before.
The most important thing is choosing a spine surgeon who takes the time to explain your options, manage your expectations, and reassure you every step of the way.
My focus is always on a personalised, patient-first approach. Surgery is never rushed, and it’s never the first choice unless it truly needs to be. If surgery is the right step, my goal is to make the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
