Spine surgery for back pain
Let’s talk about back pain and how far spinal surgery has come
- Author: Dr Shanu Gambhir
- First published:
Dr Shanu Gambhir
Neurosurgeon Sydney
Quick links
Spine surgery for back pain
Why spine surgery for back pain might be necessary
Most people don’t jump straight to surgery and nor should they. But there are some spine issues that just don’t respond to physio, medications, or rest. These are often related to the ageing of the spine and can include:
- Disc herniation
- Spinal stenosis
- Osteoarthritic changes
These issues can lead to nerve compression in your spinal canal. And while you might think of it as back pain, what often really gets in the way of life is the pain shooting down your legs. That’s what we try to target with spine surgery. It’s normal to feel uneasy about the idea of surgery, but the tools and techniques we use now are nothing like they were a decade ago.
“What used to be large, open operations are now done with tiny incisions using endoscopic techniques. With endoscopic spine surgery, I can do the entire procedure through just an 8mm cut. Using a 7mm endoscope that has a high-definition camera and a tiny working channel, I’m able to see exactly what’s going on and treat it with incredible precision.”
Dr Shanu Gambhir
Spine Surgeon Sydney
What this means for you is simple: less trauma, less pain, and a much faster recovery.
What recovery looks like now
One of the biggest benefits of endoscopic spine surgery is the recovery. Because there’s very little disruption to your muscles and soft tissue, the healing is much quicker. Here’s what many of my patients experience:
- Less post-op pain
- Less need for strong painkillers
- Back on your feet the same day
- Home by the next day
- Back to work and daily life much faster
I’ve had patients eating, drinking, and walking around comfortably just hours after surgery. It’s a real shift in what we thought was possible.
Robotics and what’s next for spine surgery
Robotic technology is also changing how we perform spine surgery. At the moment, we mainly use robots to assist with tasks like placing screws during spinal fusion surgery. But where we’re headed is even more exciting: combining robotics with endoscopic techniques to do entire surgeries with even greater accuracy.
Precision is everything, especially when you’re operating through such a small opening. At the “San Hospital” (Sydney Adventist Hospital) in Wahroonga, we’ve recently purchased a robot, and it’s certainly been very helpful to perform parts of our spinal surgeries.
Awake spine surgery might be the future
Right now, most endoscopic procedures are done under general anaesthetic and take about one to two hours. But looking forward, we’re working toward doing some of these surgeries while you’re awake.
That might sound a bit intense, but it’s actually one of the safest ways to monitor nerve function. If I’m operating near a nerve and you feel pain, that gives us instant feedback. It’s the most direct form of neuromonitoring. Of course, it’s entirely your choice. Many people will still prefer to be asleep and that’s absolutely fine too.
What you can do before surgery and why prevention matters
If you’re preparing for spine surgery, there are a few simple but important things you can do:
- Let me know about any changes in your symptoms
- Avoid heavy lifting or awkward twisting
- Stay active without overdoing it
And here’s something I always emphasise: I don’t believe surgery should ever be the first option. In fact, I spend a lot of time helping people avoid surgery altogether. Some of the most important things you can do to keep your spine healthy include:
- Keeping your weight in check
- Maintaining good posture
- Doing regular core strengthening exercises
- Staying active as much as possible
These small, daily habits can go a long way in keeping you off the operating table.
Let’s address the fears around spinal surgery
Despite how much safer spinal surgery has become, I know people are still worried about it, and understandably so. The idea of surgery on your spine feels like a big deal.
“But I want to reassure you: for most of the conditions I treat, the risk of serious complications – like paralysis – is extremely uncommon.”
Dr Shanu Gambhir
Spine Surgeon Sydney
With today’s techniques and years of specialised training behind us, spinal surgery is safer and more effective than it’s ever been. And in the right hands, it can change your life.
Spine surgeon Sydney | Dr Shanu Gambhir
Not sure what’s next? Book an appointment
Between robotics, endoscopy, and minimally invasive techniques, the possibilities for treatment are expanding every day.
If you’re dealing with back pain, nerve symptoms, or sciatica, and it’s starting to interfere with your life, there are safe, gentle options available right here in Sydney. Whether you need surgery or not, I’m here to help guide you through your choices and find the approach that’s right for you.