Is it appropriate for a patient to have a neurosurgical consultation via video link?

In most cases, yes.

• In most cases, an examination of radiology images and a discussion of symptoms with the patient are sufficient for the surgeon to provide a diagnosis
• The patient can avoid unnecessary travel expenses and inconvenience unless surgical treatment is really warranted
• 95% of the patients we see do not need an operation – surgery is always a last resort option
• In most cases, spinal problems are managed conservatively