Introduction to Singapore’s Leading Spine Specialist

In this exclusive interview with Physioactive Indonesia, Dr. Benjamin Toh, an esteemed orthopedic surgeon from Orthopedic and Spine Clinic Singapore, shares crucial insights about minimally invasive spinal surgery and comprehensive spine care. With over 18 years of experience since graduating from National University of Singapore and completing a fellowship at UCLA, Dr. Toh specializes in advanced techniques that minimize recovery time while maximizing patient outcomes.

What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS) represents a revolutionary approach to treating spinal conditions through:

• Smaller incisions (typically 1-2 inches)
• Reduced muscle and tissue damage
• Precision-targeted surgical techniques

Dr. Toh emphasizes the key benefits for patients:

• 50-70% less post-operative pain
• Up to 80% reduced blood loss
• Hospital stays shortened to 1-2 days (vs. 5-7 with traditional surgery)
• Faster return to daily activities (2-4 weeks vs. 3-6 months)

Conditions Treated with Minimally Invasive Techniques

Dr. Toh’s practice addresses 70% of spinal conditions requiring surgical intervention, including:

• Disc herniations (slip disc): When the jelly-like disc material compresses nerves
• Spinal instability: Abnormal vertebral movement causing chronic pain
• Degenerative disc disease: Age-related breakdown of spinal discs
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal

He notes that most patients don’t require surgery immediately – conservative treatments like physiotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are always explored first.

Herniated Disc

Herniated Disc 2

The Patient-Centered Assessment Process

Dr. Toh’s diagnostic approach combines:

1. Comprehensive patient interviews covering:
   • Lifestyle and activity levels
   • Occupation demands
   • Medical history and comorbidities
2. Advanced imaging including:
   • MRI scans (most common)
   • X-rays and CT scans
   • Nerve conduction studies

This holistic evaluation ensures treatment plans align with each patient’s unique needs and recovery goals.

International Patient Guide: From Jakarta to Singapore

Pre-Treatment Planning

• Teleconsultations available to streamline the process
• Bring existing scans (MRI/X-rays) to save time
• Plan for 2-day initial assessment:
  • Day 1: Consultation and tests
  • Day 2: Results review and treatment plan

Surgical Preparation

• Medical optimization required (especially for patients on blood thinners)
• Cardiac and blood tests typically needed
• Scheduling usually requires advance notice (not same-day)

Recovery Timeline

• Most patients discharged within 24-48 hours
• Follow-up within 5-7 days to clear for travel
• Full rehabilitation includes:
  • Posture correction
  • Core strengthening
  • Gradual return to activity

Patients can begin physiotherapy at Physioactive Singapore and continue rehabilitation at Physioactive Indonesia locations.

Minimally Invasive Sugery

Why Choose Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery in Singapore?

Singapore offers international patients:

• World-class surgical expertise with fellowship-trained specialists
• Cutting-edge technology in accredited medical facilities
• Efficient care pathways for international patients
• Seamless physiotherapy integration across locations
• English-speaking staff throughout the healthcare journey

Next Steps for Prospective Patients

To get in touch with us:

Orthopaedic and Spine Clinic:

• URL: https://orthospinesg.com/contact-us/
• Whatsapp: +65 9111 0730

Physioactive Singapore

• Web: https://physioactive.sg