Question 1

Does having back pain mean I will need spine surgery?

Accepted Answer

No, the vast majority (over 90%) of back pain episodes can be successfully treated using non-surgical methods such as physiotherapy, core strengthening, postural modifications, and temporary medications. Spine surgery is reserved for progressive neurological issues (like loss of bladder control or worsening leg weakness) or cases where severe pain remains unresolved after several months of conservative treatment.

Question 2

What is the difference between a slipped disc and a bulging disc?

Accepted Answer

A bulging disc is like a flat tire where the disc protrudes slightly outward but the outer layer (annulus fibrosus) remains intact. A slipped or herniated disc occurs when the outer layer actually tears, allowing the inner gel-like core (nucleus pulposus) to leak out. A herniated disc is much more likely to chemically irritate and compress nearby nerve roots, causing sharp leg sciatica.

Question 3

At what age should a child with scoliosis consider surgery?

Accepted Answer

Scoliosis surgery is typically considered when the Cobb angle (curve measurement) exceeds 45 to 50 degrees and the child is still growing, or if the curve is rapidly progressive. The optimal age is generally during early adolescence (11 to 16 years) when the spine is flexible and the bone is strong, but Dr. Hegde successfully operates on infants (congenital scoliosis) and older adults (degenerative scoliosis) alike.

Question 4

Can bracing cure scoliosis completely?

Accepted Answer

A scoliosis brace does not 'cure' or reverse the existing curve, but it is highly effective at stopping the curve from getting worse during a child's rapid growth spurt. The goal of bracing is to keep the curvature below 40-45 degrees, thereby avoiding the need for surgical correction.

Question 5

What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS) and what are its benefits?

Accepted Answer

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery utilizes advanced retractors and high-magnification microscopes to access the spine through small incisions. Instead of cutting or stripping heavy back muscles, the surgeon gently splits the muscles. This results in significantly less blood loss, less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays (often 1-2 days instead of 5-6), and a much faster return to daily activities.

Question 6

How does intraoperative neuromonitoring keep surgery safe?

Accepted Answer

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM) continuously monitors the electrical signals running through your spinal cord and nerves during surgery. If a correction maneuver or screw placement puts pressure on a nerve, the system alerts the surgeon immediately in real time, allowing them to adjust the approach and ensure the highest safety margins.

Question 7

How do I get a Visa Invitation Letter for an Indian Medical Visa?

Accepted Answer

Once Dr. Hegde reviews your medical scans and confirms you are a candidate for surgery, Apollo Hospitals, Chennai will issue an official Visa Invitation Letter. You can apply for this letter using our dedicated online form in the Contact section by uploading your passport copy and local diagnosis report. This letter is required by the Indian Embassy in your country (Bangladesh, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, etc.) to grant an e-Medical Visa.

Question 8

How long will I need to stay in Chennai after my surgery?

Accepted Answer

For complex scoliosis or deformity correction, patients typically spend 5 to 7 days in Apollo Hospital. Following discharge, we recommend staying in a hotel near the hospital for an additional 4 to 6 days for wound inspection, suture removal, and initial physical therapy before flying back home. In total, expect to spend 10 to 14 days in Chennai.

Question 9

Can I receive follow-up consultations online after returning home?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up care may be arranged through our coordination team after appropriate clinical evaluation. You can share updated reports and imaging as advised, and our desk will guide you on the next steps for review and follow-up planning.

Question 10

When can I return to school or work after scoliosis correction surgery?

Accepted Answer

Most school-aged patients can return to school 3 to 4 weeks after surgery, provided they do not carry heavy backpacks. Desk-job professionals can typically resume work within 3 to 4 weeks. Heavy manual labor, contact sports, and strenuous twisting should be avoided for 3 to 6 months until the fusion is fully consolidated.

Question 11

Will I have permanent restrictions on my physical activities after a spinal fusion?

Accepted Answer

Once the spinal fusion has fully healed (typically at the 6 to 12-month mark), you can participate in most normal recreation activities, including swimming, running, gym workouts, cycling, and hiking. We generally advise avoiding high-impact contact sports (like rugby or American football) or extreme bending to protect the surrounding unfused spinal segments.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Spine Health

Scoliosis & Deformity

Surgical Procedures

International Patients

Post-Operative Recovery