My mom was diagnosed with a spinal issue and we're really confused about the surgery. One doctor says it's minor but another warned about nerve damage and paralysis risks. She's in a lot of pain and also has knee problems making it hard to walk. At her age, is surgery the right option or should we get another opinion? Would it be open surgery or laparoscopic? What are the possible complications if we proceed? Are there any non-surgical treatments that could help instead?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

MBBS
6+ Yrs

Consult Now

Elderly spinal surgery carries risk‚ÄîMRI and second opinion help; if severe pain, surgery may be laparoscopic or open; try physiotherapy if stable.

Dr. Dhankecha Suggests...

Consult a Neurosurgeon

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Answered 14/08/2025

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my husband has 5 mm canal stenosis and the doctor suggested surgery but he can't even walk straight now i'm really worried are there any serious complications we should know about before going ahead with the operation

needs P/E for better advice.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

My mom is 60 and has a brain tumor (57mm) along with a gallbladder stone (12mm). The doctors are suggesting we prioritize the brain tumor surgery first and refusing to operate on the gallbladder due to risks. We're really confused shouldn't the gallbladder stone be taken care of first? What's the best course of action here?

Neurosurgeon opinion is advised for further treatment.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

My MRI shows a diffuse disc bulge at L5-S1 pressing on the thecal sac but no nerve root compression everything else is normal what treatment options do I have and is surgery needed for this

physiotherapy and painkillers to manage your condition

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

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Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.