The Spinal Practice

The Spinal Practice at Spire Dunedin Hospital provides a spinal service specialising in complex spinal surgery and the treatment of spinal disorders and injuries, offering an integrated and multi-disciplinary approach. The team consists of consultant spinal neurosurgeons and consultant orthopaedic spinal surgeons as well as radiologists, physiotherapists and pain management specialists.

In conjunction with Spire Dunedin Hospital, The Spinal Practice offer a wide range of treatments and provide top quality, affordable patient care, from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation.with a single-point of referral, short waiting times, and with appointment and treatment times to suit you.

The Spinal Practice also benefits from on-site X-ray, MRI, CT, ultrasound and works closely with GPs to ensure they are kept up-to-date with the very latest in treatment technology.

If I need to be evaluated for a spinal problem, or, if I need spinal surgery, should I see a consultant spinal neurosurgeon or a consultant orthopaedic spinal surgeon?

One of the most common questions that patients who have a spinal problem ask is, "Which is better, a spinal neurosurgeon or an orthopaedic spinal surgeon?" The quick answer is that for most types of spine surgery and for most of the typical spine treatments, both types of surgeons are equally well qualified, and both may be considered.

For most types of spine surgery, the real question to ask is not whether to select an orthopaedic surgeon or neurosurgeon, but rather, what specific areas or procedures does this surgeon sub-specialise in and what is the success rate and outcomes for this type of treatment? Also very important is choosing a surgeon who you feel you can communicate with easily.