Being told you might need spine surgery is stressful. You're in pain, the terms are unfamiliar, and the consultation is over in twenty minutes. Many patients leave and only then think of what they wanted to ask.
So take this list with you. It's what we'd want any patient to ask before agreeing to an operation, whether they're seeing us or someone else.
Tip: bring your MRI films (not just the report), old prescriptions, a list of your medicines, and a family member to listen with you.
The 10 questions
What exactly is my diagnosis? Can you show me on my scan?
A good surgeon can point to the problem on your MRI and explain it simply. If the words stay vague, keep asking.
Do I really need surgery now? What happens if I wait?
For many conditions, waiting a little is safe. For some, such as progressive weakness, delay can cost you nerve recovery. You deserve to know which situation you're in.
What non-surgical options have I not tried yet?
Medication, physiotherapy, posture changes and sometimes injections come first for most problems. Ask what has been tried and what hasn't.
Which operation do you recommend, and why that approach?
This is where the choice between minimally invasive and open surgery comes in. Ask why it suits your spine.
How often do you perform this specific procedure?
Experience with the exact operation matters. It's a reasonable question, and a confident surgeon answers it openly.
What are the realistic goals?
Leg pain often improves more predictably than long-standing back pain or numbness. Ask what's likely to get better, what may not, and how sure the surgeon is.
What are the risks for someone like me?
Diabetes, weight, age, smoking and weak bones all change the risk. Ask for your risks, not the textbook list.
How will safety be monitored during surgery?
Ask about the team, the anaesthesia plan and whether nerve monitoring is used. At Orthos Centre, we use intraoperative neuromonitoring where appropriate.
What will recovery look like, day by day?
Ask when you can walk, drive, ride a two-wheeler, sit at your desk and lift things. Also ask whether you'll need rehabilitation. Our rehab team helps with this.
What's the total cost, and what will insurance cover?
Ask for a written estimate including surgeon, hospital, implants and follow-up, and what happens if the stay runs longer. Surprises here add stress you don't need.
Is it okay to get a second opinion?
Absolutely. Any good surgeon welcomes it. If surgery has been suggested, a second opinion can confirm the plan, suggest a gentler alternative, or explain the same advice in a way that finally makes sense.
Bring your films and reports to Orthos Centre in Baner and book a second-opinion consultation with Dr. Shrikant Dalal.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get a second opinion before spine surgery?
It's sensible when surgery is elective, when several options exist, or when you simply don't feel sure.
How do I find a good spine surgeon in Pune?
Look for a clear explanation, willingness to discuss non-surgical care, transparency about risks and cost, and no pressure to decide on the spot.
Will I always need an MRI?
Most surgical decisions do rely on one.