Second Opinion for Spinal Surgery
Seeking a second opinion, particularly where surgery is indicated, is becoming increasingly common. A second opinion is most useful if the diagnosis is uncertain or multiple treatments are available. For spinal problems such as disc protrusions, spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease there are a variety of non-surgical and surgical options for the same condition. Your specialist should have expertise and knowledge of all these available options. Before proceeding with any operation, a patient should feel comfortable with the diagnosis and proposed treatment plan. A second opinion can often put a patient’s mind at ease.
Patients may seek a second opinion from a specialist with more expertise in their particular condition or because they are looking for a better patient-doctor relationship. Some studies have shown that seeking a second opinion may even reduce the rate of surgical intervention. A second opinion can ensure patients have fully investigated their options, have an accurate diagnosis and feel informed as to their choices.
The best spinal surgeons and best neurosurgeons will welcome patients getting a second opinion. Patients wanting a second opinion should explain to their specialist that they would like further advice on the treatment options and ask for a referral to another specialist. Patients often ask to see Dr Laban for a second opinion given his extensive experience, knowledge and surgical expertise.
Dr Laban is a dual-certified, experienced and internationally-respected spine surgeon and neurosurgeon who sees patients with all types of spinal conditions and neurosurgical conditions including:
- back pain and neck pain;
- disc protrusions / disc prolapses / bulging discs;
- degenerative disc disease;
- other degenerative spine conditions including spinal stenosis, canal stenosis, lateral recess stenosis and spondylolisthesis;
- spine tumours;
- spinal trauma including vertebral fractures;
- brain tumours;
- peripheral nerve tumours;
- neurovascular compression syndromes such as trigeminal neuralgia and hemifacial spasm;
- infections of the brain or spine;
- brain and peripheral nerve injuries;
- hydrocephalus.
Dr Laban believes deeply in listening to patient’s concerns and prides himself on providing patients with sufficient time and opportunity to discuss a diagnosis. Dr Laban is happy to provide a second opinion for patients considering treatment for a spine, brain or peripheral nerve condition.
Dr Laban is interested in spinal, brain and peripheral nerve pathophysiology, preventative medicine, non-invasive therapies and minimally invasive techniques. Dr Laban combines his expert knowledge of these non-surgical and surgical therapies to provide tailor-made individualised treatment. Surgery is not always the right or only option and at your consultation Dr Laban will discuss and explain the appropriate alternatives.
If you are concerned about any symptoms you have, or if you want to get a second opinion, do contact our friendly team to book an appointment. You will be able to discuss your problem with Dr Laban and, after appropriate investigation, he will offer tailor-made advice about the diagnosis and treatment options.
Dr Laban is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and of Royal College of Surgeons of England and has trained, worked, published and presented nationally and internationally. Dr Laban works out of his Double Bay, North Shore and Central Coast consulting rooms.We are open to talk to you between the hours of 8:00am 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. Call us on 02 8320 0577 or email info@drjameslaban.com.au.