A 68-year-old German patient has praised the efficiency and expertise of Chinese doctors after undergoing successful minimally invasive spine surgery at Zhongshan Orthopedic Hospital in Guangdong Province.
In early March, the patient developed acute lumbar disc herniation, with pain rapidly worsening to the point that she could no longer stand or walk. Initial conservative treatments, including acupuncture, failed to provide relief. An MRI scan later confirmed a large herniated disc compressing a nerve.
Facing long waiting times for treatment in Germany, the patient chose to remain in Zhongshan after learning that the hospital specializes in minimally invasive spinal procedures. Her insurance provider confirmed that the costs would be covered.
After stopping anticoagulant medication to reduce surgical risks, she underwent spinal endoscopic surgery, a complex procedure, shortly after the Lantern Festival. The operation, which lasted about one hour, involved a 1.5-centimeter incision and required no stitches.
"The pain was gone immediately after the surgery," the patient said, noting that she had not expected such a serious condition to be resolved with such a minimally invasive approach.
She was discharged three days later and advised to rest for one month, with full recovery expected within three months.
According to the hospital, the procedure was supported by advanced imaging and navigation systems, as well as technical collaboration with leading institutions. Doctors noted that such surgeries require both specialized equipment and highly skilled teams.
The patient praised the seamless medical process, from diagnosis to recovery, highlighting the efficiency and professionalism of the medical staff compared to the longer waiting times she would have faced abroad.
Hospital officials said the case reflects the growing capabilities of Zhongshan Orthopedic Hospital in minimally invasive spine care, offering patients effective treatments with reduced trauma and faster recovery.
Author | Jiang Chang
Photo | Nanfang Plus
