Candidates include disc herniation, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, deformity, and fractures not responding to conservative care. Options span decompressions, fusions (PLIF/TLIF/ALIF), endoscopic/minimally invasive approaches, and artificial disc replacement. India offers modern ORs and accredited centers with pricing up to 60–80% lower than US/UK—coordinated via MediHeal International.
Treatment Guide
Spine Surgery
India combines advanced minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques, navigation/microscopy, and experienced spine teams—delivering faster access and major cost savings for international patients, coordinated end-to-end by MediHeal International.


Quick Answer
Who Needs Spine Surgery
- Persistent nerve compression/instability with imaging correlation (disc herniation, stenosis, spondylolisthesis, deformity, fractures).
- Failed adequate trials of medication, injections, and physiotherapy.
- Red-flag or progressive deficits (e.g., foot drop/cauda equina) requiring prompt surgical opinion.
Why Choose India
- Modern ORs with navigation, microscope/endoscope systems, and neuromonitoring at accredited centers.
- Experienced spine surgeons and fast scheduling at predictable package prices (often 60–80% lower than US/UK).
- International desks streamline opinions, itemized quotes, visas, transfers, and rehab planning.
How MediHeal International Helps
- Case triage to centers with strengths in endoscopic MIS, deformity correction, motion-preserving ADR, or complex fusion.
- Transparent, itemized quotes (levels operated, implant brands, OT/ICU, physio, local transfers).
- Logistics: visas, airport pickup, accommodation, interpreters, and coordinated rehab/tele-follow-ups.
Types of Spine Surgery
- Decompression— Discectomy, laminectomy/laminotomy, foraminotomy to relieve nerve/spinal cord pressure.
- Stabilization/Fusion— Instrumented fusion (e.g., PLIF/TLIF/ALIF) for instability/deformity; longer recovery.
- Motion-Preserving— Cervical/lumbar artificial disc replacement (ADR) in selected patients.
- Minimally Invasive/Endoscopic— Smaller incisions, less blood loss, potentially quicker recovery in suitable cases.
The Surgical Journey
Pre-arrival
- Share MRI/CT, X-rays, neuro exam notes, comorbidity list, and prior therapy history.
- Receive written plan: procedure type/levels, implants, ICU expectations, itemized costs.
Pre-op & Admission
- Updated labs, ECG, anaesthesia clearance; DVT/infection risk assessment.
- Consent, counselling on rehab milestones and return-to-travel timing.
Surgery & Early Recovery
- Procedure under GA; typical ICU observation for higher-risk or long cases.
- Early mobilization with brace if prescribed; analgesia and wound checks.
Rehabilitation & Follow-up
- Step-down to ward; physio for gait, core, and posture training.
- Fit-to-fly note and tele-follow-ups; escalation pathway for concerns.
Recovery Timeline
Discectomy
Light activities ~2–3 weeks; fuller activity ~6–8 weeks if healing well.
Laminectomy/Decompression
Partial function ~4–6 weeks; fuller recovery ~12 weeks.
Fusion
Basic function ~6–8 weeks; bony fusion/maturation takes months; activity limits longer.
Benefits to Expect
- Pain relief, improved neurology and walking tolerance, and better stability/alignment.
- MIS/endoscopic options may reduce blood loss, post-op pain, and hospital stay.
- Coordinated travel care shortens waits and clarifies total costs.
Risks & Complications
General Risks
- Infection, bleeding, DVT/PE, dural tear/CSF leak, nerve injury, FBSS (failed back surgery syndrome), hardware issues, non-union in fusion, anaesthesia risks.
Revision Risk
- Choose accredited hospitals with experienced spine teams, navigation/endoscopy capability, and strong infection control.
- Optimize comorbidities (diabetes/BP), stop smoking, manage weight; adhere to brace/physio and lifting restrictions.
Cost & Inclusions
Indicative Costs
- Always request itemized quotes with implant brands, number of levels, neuro-monitoring, and rehab plan for fair comparisons.
* Final quote after clinical evaluation; varies by implant, technique (e.g., robotics), hospital accreditation, city, and length of stay.
Travel & Visa Essentials
- Medical visa pathways cover spine procedures; documents include passport, medical records, hospital invitation, and funds proof.
- Validity commonly spans treatment duration with multiple entries; e-Medical Visa available for select nationalities.
Preparing for Surgery
- Stop smoking; control diabetes and blood pressure; review anticoagulants with your doctor.
- Prehab: core strengthening, posture education; arrange home safety (toilet riser, no heavy lifting).
- Bring imaging on CD, reports, meds list, and previous surgery notes.
Rehabilitation Focus
- Graduated physio for gait, core, and flexibility; brace use as prescribed.
- Ergonomics and spine hygiene training; avoid bending/twisting/lifting early.
- Scheduled tele-follow-ups; repeat imaging only if clinically indicated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the hospital stay?
Many decompressions are 1–3 days; fusions can be longer depending on complexity and recovery.
When can daily activities resume?
Often 2–6 weeks for decompressions; fusion restrictions extend for months while bone heals.
Is MIS/endoscopic surgery suitable for everyone?
Suitability depends on pathology and levels involved; imaging and surgeon expertise guide the decision.
What documents are needed for a visa?
Passport, photos, medical records, hospital invitation, funds proof, and return ticket; attendant visas are available.