Spine surgery at Dr. Zuhair Abu Salma’s clinic
Dr. Abu Salma reads your imaging, examines you, and discusses the next step — whether that means follow-up, further tests, or a treatment plan.
Common reasons patients come in
Your case is reviewed on its own imaging and symptoms — the list below is for general guidance.
Lumbar disc herniation
Lower back pain with leg numbness or weakness
Cervical disc herniation
Neck pain radiating to the arm or hand
Spinal stenosis
Leg heaviness or pain when walking that eases with rest
Sciatica
Pain radiating from the lower back down the leg
Spinal cord tumor
Progressively worsening numbness or weakness in the limbs, difficulty walking, or changes in bladder or bowel control
What the visit usually looks like
- 1Step 1 of 3
Before the visit
The doctor reviews your imaging and reports in advance, so the consultation focuses on discussion — not on loading images.
- 2Step 2 of 3
Clinical review and discussion
Clear scientific diagnosis that helps you understand your condition and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
- 3Step 3 of 3
Discuss the next step
A plan may include further imaging, medication, physiotherapy, a follow-up, or a discussion of a procedure. You leave the visit with a clear summary of the next step and a way to reach the clinic with questions.
What to prepare
Bringing the following helps the clinic team review your case more efficiently:
- MRI or CT on CD/DVD, or a printed report with images
- A short timeline: when symptoms started, what changed, what treatment was tried, and what makes symptoms worse or better
- A list of current medications and any previous spine treatment
- A list of questions you want to ask during the visit
- Recent blood tests or nerve studies (EMG/NCV) if you have them
- New weakness in one or both legs, or trouble walking that is getting worse
- Difficulty controlling bladder or bowel, or numbness in the groin and inner thighs
- Severe back or neck pain with fever, after a fall, or with sudden confusion
Common questions from patients
When does a herniated disc need surgery?
Surgery is considered the optimal solution when imaging matches the symptoms and conservative treatment (medication, physiotherapy, time) has not brought enough improvement, or when there is progressive weakness or sphincter changes. Each case is reviewed on its own imaging and exam.
Do I need to bring a printed MRI or can I send it digitally?
Either works. If the imaging is on a CD from a radiology center, bring the CD — many centers require special viewers. Digital copies (DICOM files) can be sent through the clinic's contact page before the visit.
Will the visit include a treatment plan on the same day?
When the evaluation is complete, Dr. Zuhair Abu Salma discusses the next step during the visit. If more tests are needed, a follow-up plan is agreed on and the doctor coordinates the next steps.
Do I need a referral from another doctor?
A referral is not required. Patients can book directly. If you have reports from another doctor, bringing them (or sending them ahead) is helpful but not a substitute for a consultation.
Related specialties
Other specialties seen at the clinic:
Related reading
In-depth articles on this specialty
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