Spine surgeon Sydney

Get to know your spine surgeon

“Seeking relief from ongoing back, neck or leg pain can be challenging.”

Dr Shanu Gambhir

Neurosurgeon Sydney

Spine surgery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a focus on minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques, you’re in expert hands. My approach is simple: surgery is the last resort, and I prioritise your wellbeing by offering the least invasive methods whenever possible. If spine surgery is needed, you can trust that you’ll receive advanced care designed to minimise pain and help you recover faster.

Best spine surgeon Sydney

3 reasons why you want a great spine surgeon

The spine is intricate, and having a great spine surgeon matters.

Precision and safety

With years of experience, I ensure that every procedure is done carefully to protect the spine’s intricate structure.

Less invasive options

I focus on advanced, minimally invasive techniques like endoscopic spine surgery, reducing your recovery time and pain.

Patient-focused care

I listen closely, take time to explain everything, and always consider non-surgical options first. Spine surgery is never the first choice unless it’s truly necessary.

Spine conditions & treatments

Why you may need a spine surgeon

Seeking relief from ongoing back, neck or leg pain can be challenging, especially when other treatments haven’t provided lasting results. Here’s why seeing a spine surgeon might be your next step:

Long-term relief: If pain has been persistent and affecting your quality of life, spine surgery could offer the lasting relief you need.
Complex conditions: The spine is a complex structure that requires specialist knowledge to assess and treat safely. Having a skilled spine surgeon involved can make a significant difference.
Second opinion: If you’ve been recommended for spine surgery or other interventions, it’s always wise to get a second opinion to explore all possible options.

Conditions that may need spine surgery

Here are some spine conditions that might require surgery:

Lumbar disc herniation: This happens when a disc in the lower back bulges or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves. It can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs.
Cervical disc herniation: Similar to lumbar disc herniation, but it affects the neck. You might feel pain, numbness, or tingling down your arms.
Lumbar canal stenosis: This is when the spinal canal in the lower back narrows, compressing the nerves. It can cause pain, cramping, or numbness in your legs, especially when you walk.
Sciatica: Sciatica is pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, usually starting in the lower back and going down the leg. It’s often caused by a herniated disc, stenosis, or spondylolisthesis.
Lumbar spondylolisthesis: This is when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, causing lower back pain, nerve issues, and sometimes trouble moving around.

What type of surgery is available and for what condition

I offer a range of spine surgeries, each tailored to specific conditions. Here’s a brief look at what’s available:

Endoscopic spine surgery Sydney

What is endoscopic spine surgery and why do I need it?

Endoscopic spine surgery isn’t just a technique—it’s a passion of mine. As one of the first neurosurgeons to introduce this approach to Australia, I’m committed to offering patients less invasive options for spine surgery. Here’s why it could be right for you:

Less pain

With smaller incisions, there is less trauma to surrounding tissues, resulting in reduced pain after the surgery.

Faster recovery

Most patients recover quickly and can often return home the same day or within 24 hours.

Effective results

This method is highly effective for conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis to relieve nerve compression without a large incision.

Risks of spine surgery

While the risk of complications is low, all surgeries carry some potential risks, including infection, bleeding, blood clots, and reactions to anaesthesia. Additionally, there are specific risks related to spine surgery:

Spinal fluid leak: A tear in the membrane around the spinal cord can cause headaches and require further treatment.
Nerve damage: Potential for nerve injury, leading to weakness, numbness, or even paralysis.

Specific risks of fusion surgery:

Adjacent segment disease: Increased stress on nearby vertebrae might lead to degeneration over time.
Hardware complications: Screws or rods used in the procedure can shift or break, sometimes needing revision surgery.

I take every step to minimise these risks and ensure a safe, effective recovery, with the likelihood of significant complications being very low.

Spine Surgeon Sydney

Spine Surgery FAQs

What does a spine surgeon do, and what conditions do they treat?

A spine surgeon looks after the neck, mid-back, and lower back, helping with things like herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, and pinched nerves. Most people feel better without surgery. Often, we begin with simple steps: education, tailored physiotherapy, pain relief, and precise image-guided injections. If surgery is needed, options range from minimally invasive procedures like endoscopic discectomy to keyhole decompression or, in some cases, spinal fusion.

When should I see a spine surgeon for back or neck pain?

If your pain lingers for weeks, disrupts your sleep or work, or you notice numbness, tingling, weakness, balance issues, or pain running down a limb, it’s time for a review. Sudden symptoms like bowel or bladder trouble, numbness in the saddle area, or fever with back pain need urgent care. A consultation helps clarify the cause and next steps.

What is minimally invasive spine surgery, and am I a candidate?

These techniques use smaller incisions to protect muscles and speed up recovery. Common types include endoscopic discectomy and keyhole decompression. They’re often used for sciatica, spinal narrowing, or recurring disc problems. Your MRI, symptoms, and spine anatomy help us decide if this is the right fit for you.

How long does recovery take after common spine procedures?

For endoscopic or small keyhole surgeries, most people walk the same day and go home within 24 hours. Desk jobs can often resume in a week or two, but physical work needs more time and care. You can drive again once it’s safe and you’re off drowsy medications. Fusion surgery takes longer and follows a detailed rehab plan.

Do I need a GP referral to see a spine surgeon?

Yes, a GP referral is helpful, and may make you eligible for Medicare rebates. Bring your latest scans (on disc or digital link), a list of medications and allergies, and any past clinic notes or op reports. Wear something comfy, we may need to do a physical exam. If you don’t have recent imaging, we’ll order the right tests after your visit.

Spine surgeon Sydney | Dr Shanu Gambhir

Why I became a spine surgeon

The drive to become a spine surgeon started when I was just 10 years old. I remember seeing my mother dislocate her shoulder and feeling helpless because no one in the family could help her.

Around the same time, I watched a documentary where a young man’s life was saved by a calm and composed neurosurgeon during a complex brain surgery. That moment stayed with me, inspiring me to pursue a career in neurosurgery and later specialise in the spine.

Why choose me as your spine surgeon

My approach is not just about surgery—it’s about you. Most of my consultations focus on non-surgical solutions, with surgery considered only when truly needed. I take time to listen, explain everything clearly, and treat every patient with respect. I’ve pioneered endoscopic spine surgery in Australia, offering advanced, minimally invasive options to help patients recover more quickly and with less pain.