Advanced Spine Surgery - Lumbar & Cervical

Dr. Bala is a leading proponent of artificial disc replacement, offering patients an alternative to spinal fusion with over 400 lumbar procedures completed - arguably the largest series in Australia.

Lumbar Disc Replacement

Who Benefits Most:

• Younger patients with minimal spinal wear
• Single-level disc problems (the "flat tire" scenario)
• Chronic pain affecting quality of life
• Patients seeking to maintain spinal mobility

The Procedure: Performed through a minimally invasive approach below the belly button in collaboration with experienced vascular surgeons. This team approach, refined over 10 years, ensures optimal access and safety.

Understanding the Forces: Each spinal disc bears 300-400kg of force through daily activities. Sitting and leaning forward creates the highest pressure within the disc, making proper treatment crucial for long-term relief.

Cervical Disc Replacement

Ideal for patients experiencing:

• Difficulty holding up their head (remember, your head weighs 10kg)
• Need to rest frequently throughout the day
• Sharp neck spasms extending to the back of the head
• Supporting their head with their hands
• Associated nerve pain

The Advantage: This procedure can often be performed as day surgery with minimal invasive techniques, allowing patients to maintain neck mobility while eliminating pain.

Dr. Bala's Personal Experience

Dr. Bala has personally undergone lumbar fusion surgery at the L5-S1 level, providing him with unique insight into the patient journey and pain experience. "I can truly empathize with your pain journey," he notes.

Treatment Philosophy

"History accounts for 90% of diagnosis - scans only show 10% of the story." Dr. Bala emphasizes thorough consultation to ensure the right treatment for each individual patient.