Mr. J Rophael works in closely with Mr. Terry Hiller, one of Australia’s most experienced orthopedic spinal surgeons. They have worked together as a team for a number of years.

Mr. J Rophael will be present on the day of your operation. As a vascular surgeon, Mr. J Rophael provides a safe access to the site of the spine that requires surgical intervention.

New advanced techniques in spinal surgery often require an approach to the vertebral column from the front (anterior exposure) rather than the back. A team approach involving a vascular surgeon and a spinal surgeon has been proven to be safer and yields lower complication rates.

Once a decision for an anterior approach has been made you will be referred for a thorough pre-operative consultation which will include an ultrasound of the major blood vessels of the abdomen and pelvis, in addition to a CT scan.

The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. The abdominal contents including major blood vessels and nerves are retracted to allow Mr. Hiller direct access to the spine.

Then entire operation takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on the number of spinal level access required.

There are certain significant however rare risks involved in the procedure which will be discussed in detail at the time of your consultation.

Mr. J. Rophael will consult you on the specifics of his role and review your vascular health in either Albury or Melbourne.

Should you require any assistance with accommodation or transport to Melbourne please don’t hesitate to contact our receptionist who can address your specific needs.

If you have any further queries regarding spinal surgery for back pain and/or Mr. Terry Hiller’s services please visit his website, a link can be found under our links page.