01When can a specialist consultation help?
A consultation can help when symptoms persist, affect mobility, work or sleep, or when you need a clear explanation of a diagnosis or proposed plan.
- Confirmed segmental instability
- Symptomatic spondylolisthesis
- Deformity requiring balance correction
- Decompression that would create instability
- Revision surgery with loss of support
02How is the condition assessed?
Fusion should have a clear anatomical and functional indication, and decompression without fusion should be discussed when it is a safe option.
Additional tests are considered only when they may change the decision, avoiding treatment of a scan finding without relating it to the patient.
03Options that may be discussed
The order of options differs from person to person. Benefits, limitations, risks and alternatives are discussed before a plan is agreed.
- Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF)
- Oblique or lateral fusion (OLIF/LLIF)
- Posterior fusion (TLIF/PLIF)
- Single-level or multilevel fusion
- Minimally invasive techniques for suitable cases
04What happens after a plan is made?
Mobility, expected stay and return to work vary with the number of levels, approach, general health and job demands; expectations are individualised.
Expected signs of progress, review timing and symptoms that need earlier reassessment are explained.
A clear journey from first contactHow do you begin with Dr Hani’s team?
01Contact
Send a short message to book an appointment or a second-opinion consultation.
02Coordinate
The team only helps select an available time and confirm the booking.
03Assess
The doctor connects symptoms, examination and imaging before discussing a plan.
04Plan
You receive a clear explanation of options, follow-up and recovery.
Clear answersFrequently asked questions
Does seeing a spine surgeon mean I need surgery?
No. The aim is a clear diagnosis and discussion of all options. Many patients begin with non-surgical care when it is appropriate and safe.
Is an MRI enough to choose treatment?
No. MRI findings must match the symptoms and examination because some changes are present in people without symptoms.
Is endoscopy suitable for every disc problem?
No. Suitability depends on compression location, access anatomy and symptoms. Microscopic surgery or non-surgical care may be better in other cases.
How should I prepare for consultation?
Bring original imaging, reports and a list of previous treatments. Note your main questions and the function you want to regain, such as walking, sleeping or returning to work.
Can I request a second opinion before surgery?
Yes. Book an appointment with Dr Hani and discuss the diagnosis, imaging and proposed plan directly with the doctor during the in-clinic consultation. The team’s role is limited to booking.
Medical information noticeThis content is general education, not an individual diagnosis or a promise of outcome. Plans and results vary by patient and require specialist assessment.
