Spine and back reviews

Dr. Bae is the best ortho you will find! My wife had years of back issues and suffering. During her first consultation with Dr. Bae, he said the words that no other ortho (and there were many) had said to her...."I can fix you"! She just went in for her 6 month after surgery check up and she is "fixed"! Straighter, taller, and flexible. The care that Dr. Bae, Dr. Lisa and the rest of the office was nothing less than perfect. If Dr. Bae tells you he can fix you, believe him!

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Hyun Bae, MD

I had a lumbar fusion 6 weeks ago and am doing wonderfully. I am sorry I waited a year to do it while I tried every alternative to stop the pain running down the back of my leg. Dr. Bae is the best. He knows his skill and his confidence helped me feel relaxed and assured it would go well. Also the PA Lisa was terrific. She responded to my emails almost immediately. So wonderful to have surgery with them.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Khurana performed a micro spinal stenosis surgery in Jan. 2015 at Marina Del Rey Hospital. I've waited 2 years to give a review, one never knows how back surgery will turn out long term. Before the surgery I could barely walk, 4 Advil and 1/2 prescription pain killer got my day going. By mid day I'd take 4 more Advil and at night I'd take 4 more, this went on for several years. Today I can work in the garden, build a shed and I can play golf. I hit the ball farther at 65 than I did at 50. ... Dr. Khurana is the best and he is honest in evaluation. He didn't make promises other than I would have less pain. He hoped for the best and wanted to deliver the best. I could not ask for better, I got the best and couldn't be happier. He's worth a visit to see what he can do for you. (Still doing great at 67).

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Sanjay Khurana, MD

I have had the pleasure to have Dr. Bae perform two surgeries on my spine, both extremely successful! On both occasions once in 2011 and again recently in 2016, he sent me to get an MRI, I brought them to him, and within moments of reviewing them, he was able to diagnose my particular issue regarding the pain in my back! I found him the first time through 1-800-cedars1, and was a little worried because he looked at my MRI, for about 10 seconds, and told me what I needed, I thought "how could anyone know that from just a 10 second investment"? Well I trusted him, and was glad I did, he is very cutting edge, and works out of the Cedars Spine Center, which deals with the latest cutting edge technology! I highly recommend the Cedars Spine Center, in particular, I highly recommend Dr. Hyun Bae, don't be put off, by how quick the process seems to move, they know what they're doing!

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Hyun Bae, MD

I am writing exactly one year after my procedure to give Dr. Bae and his office the highest possible recommendation. I did not write earlier because the entire procedure of having two levels of cervical spinal discs replaced went so well and so easily that I forced myself to wait to make sure things remained great. And they have. I was diagnosed in May 2016 with degenerative disc disease with C4/5 and C5/6 bulging directly on my spinal cord, causing numbness and a lack of agility in my hands. Local doctors in the Bay Area said my only choice was a two-level fusion, two nights in the hospital and formidable recovery. I did a lot of reading online and decided that everything about artificial disc replacement seemed better, from procedure to recovery. The only problem was that insurance would not cover it. We bit the bullet and decided to self-fund the surgery. I have never regretted the cost because the experience was AMAZINGLY UNBELIEVABLY AWESOME. Same-day surgery; I flew in a few days before for pre-op and stayed 11 days afterwards before flying back. The surgi-center was awesome, the surgery went quickly and well, and my recovery was negligible. When Lisa Cano, Dr. Bae's FABULOUS PA, told me that I would not experience much pain I was skeptical, but she was right. I only took one pain pill throughout, the first night. I was out to dinner and going to museums later in the week. I cannot recommend Dr. Bae and Lisa and the staff at the surgi-center highly enough. If you face anything like I faced, with cervical spinal disc issues, you could not do better than to see Dr. Bae.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Good Dr, He elongated my neck and now my spasms don't throw my mid back out.

Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Hyun Bae did something that 7 other well-known LA neurosurgeons refused to do: take on the tough challenge of correcting a 7-year-old botched surgery. Revisionist surgery is a delicate and difficult undertaking. Everyone else looked at my spine, saw too many problems, and backed off. Dr. Bae looked at the same problems and came up with a plan to fix them. He essentially rebuilt my lower spine. As promised, he took away the constant pain, for which I will be eternally grateful. My initial surgery in 2007 was to correct a foot drop; that "celebrated" surgeon, Dr. Patrick Johnson, not only did NOT correct the problem, but created several more: a deterioration of muscles from the foot on up my entire left side, rendering me unable to walk without knee-high bracing, and with a wheelchair looming in my future. Dr. Bae arrested that progression; there'll be no wheelchair for me now! Nonetheless, even Dr. Bae, amazing as his talents are, couldn't bring back what is already atrophied. However, with the massive remnants of scar tissue and blockages removed, a stronger spine and now pain-free, I can finally attempt to "wake up" what muscles remain and, if I work hard in PT, at least bring back much-needed stability. As you can tell from my story, I'm unfortunately familiar with way too many doctors. I know the difference between waking up from one kind of surgery and the way I felt waking up from this one. One guy was in a hurry, one guy was an artist. Which is why, without reservation, I can confidently recommend Dr. Hyun Bae to help others as he has helped me.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Bae an amazing doctor! Last December I injured my spine while in North Carolina. The doctors there did what I call temporary fix on my third lumbar which didn't work! Searching for more answers to my problem, Dr. Bae was referred to me as being one of the best in L.A. My first appointment with Dr. Bae was professional in every detail. There was a chance that my spine would heal and he wanted to give it two months. Well, after 4 weeks, I knew something needed to be done. Dr. Bae expedited my appointment and set me up for surgery the following week. He explained clearly everything that would transpire during the one and one-half hour operation. Leaving his office I had complete confidence that I had selected the right doctor. The day of surgery, staff and the doctor were so positive that I was very comfortable leaving my back destiny in his hands. I am happy to say that after surgery the pains have disappeared and I can walk again. I would like to thank Dr. Bae, his excellent assistant Lisa and the entire surgery staff for making my first every hospital stay an easy one. I would also like to thank Amy and Rob for recommending this fantastic surgeon.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Bae installed a Prodisc artificial cervical disc at my C5-6 two months ago. I had talked to 5 other ortho surgeons prior to this about my neck and arm pain. I am 65 years old, had spondylosis and radiculopathy from degenerated C5-6. Three surgeons recommended fusion (wouldn't do artificial disc) and the other two offered this and artificial disc. I chose Dr. Bae because of his publications in the field, his excellent reviews, and his calm and forthright demeanor during the diagnosis/intake office appointment. I dismissed the negative yelp reviews about bedside manner, concluding these were people who had trouble trusting people, requiring people to spend an exorbitant/unnecessary amount of time with them in order to gain their trust. I didn't want that. I wanted a doctor who is plain and direct, and professional. The surgery went well, no complications. I could have gone home the same day, but chose to stay overnight at Cedars Sinai. I had slight/moderate pain for a few days, and then just some limited movement and discomfort for another few days. I only took one pain pill during this period at home. In 12 days I was back swimming and playing tennis, and within a month I had no pain left at all, and wonderful extra neck movement from the artificial disc. Dr. Bae basically gave me a new life, and I am grateful to him for it. I also loved the compassion Dr. Bae showed prior to my surgery in the surgery prep room at Cedars. He came in and just held my hand for a bit, and exuded an ease, confidence and comfort level you won't see many surgeons exhibit. I know; I've had many surgeries in my life. Dr. Bae's Surgery Fellow, who assisted the procedure, and visited me afterwards, praised Dr. Bae's skills in a reverential way, which is what you would expect with a surgeon of Dr. Bae's caliber.

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Hyun Bae, MD

I couldn't have picked a better Dr. for my disk replacement. For over two years I suffered with debilitating neck and shoulder pain due to a damaged disc C5-C6. I saw two surgeons here in Las Vegas and tried all the nonsurgical treatments (anti-inflammatory medications, acupuncture, two rounds of physical therapy and epidural steroid injections) to no avail. Both local surgeons eventually recommended spinal fusion. NO WAY, I said. For over a year, I spent hours researching alternative treatments and that's how I found Dr. Bae. On June 2015, I had my initial consultation. When you enter Dr. Bae's office the first person you will interact with is Julie, Dr. Bae's medical secretary. She is incredibly efficient, helpful and skillful at communicating with nervous patients like myself. When you meet Dr. Bae the first thing you will notice is how confident and forthright he is. First, he examined my medical history and MRI images, he showed my husband and I where the prolapsed disk was pressing against the spinal cord and then he explained (in plain language) what could be done surgically to free up the nerve. Both my husband and I were extremely impressed with Dr. Bae's minimally invasive approach to surgery, his communication skills and sincere desire to stop my pain. The surgery, insurance coverage, hospital stay, follow up care, etc was all made possible by his wonderful PA Lisa. Lisa was instrumental in coordinating the "long distance" planning of my surgery in Santa Monica - most of it through email and phone calls. She was SUPER quick replying to all of my questions! Thank You Lisa. Seven weeks ago, Dr Bae replaced my degenerated disk with a Mobi-C cervical disk and I'm feeling fantastic. I Just completed the first week of physical therapy here in Vegas and for the first time in years I'm starting to live free of pain. If you are struggling with a spinal condition, trust Dr. Bae and his amazing team!

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr Bae changed my life by giving me back my vitality and eliminating my pain. I am a 47 year old athletic female that suffered 3 herniated discs at the same level (L 4-5). I had two microdisctectomies prior to arriving at THE SPINE INSTITUTE that did not hold, I felt better for a while and then suddenly the disc would re-herniate. Dr Bae worked with me (and my insurance company) to get me the disc replacement that would eventually fix me back up. He is so wonderful, I never doubted his decision or his skill. I had many questions that he answered patiently and thoroughly. His office is wonderful, his PA, Lisa, is fantastic. Yes, sometimes there is a wait but that is not the norm (in my experience). I'm very, very pleased to say I'm back to my original activity level and pain free!!!!!

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Khurana is so awesome. He did a fantastic job with my husband's cervical fusion back in January. He has a great bedside manner. You can tell that he really cares about the well being of his patients. My husband had to be in the hospital for about 4 days after surgery and he was in contact with me regularly updating me on the his status. My husband also has lower back problems and I won't trust anyone but Dr. Khurana to be his surgeon again for this problem. Also, Wendy and Susan were great to deal with prior to surgery. See you for follow up in July, Dr. Khurana!

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Sanjay Khurana, MD

Dr. Khurana was one of the most amazing physicians I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. Not only was he thoughtful, attentive, understanding, compassionate, but also vested in my recovery. He listened to my questions, I never felt rushed, and he was always there to ease my concerns and help me through my treatment. My spinal injury was a multi-year debacle and I was basically an invalid. Being in my mid-twenties, it was more than depressing not being able to do what I wanted to physically. After my surgery with Dr. Khurana, I got my life back. Dr. Khurana gave me my life back. I'm now back in the gym, playing sports, competitively swimming, and living my life - all thanks to the hands and know-how of Dr. Khurana. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone having spinal issues. I'm back to 100%. He didn't push me for surgery, and we tried several other options prior to. My only regret was waiting two years to find Dr. Khurana, but boy am I thanking my lucky stars that I did.

Sanjay Khurana, MD

Dr. Khurana was one of the most amazing physicians I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. Not only was he thoughtful, attentive, understanding, compassionate, but also vested in my recovery. He listened to my questions, I never felt rushed, and he was always there to ease my concerns and help me through my treatment. My spinal injury was a multi-year debacle and I was basically an invalid. Being in my mid-twenties, it was more than depressing not being able to do what I wanted to physically. After my surgery with Dr. Khurana, I got my life back. Dr. Khurana gave me my life back. I'm now back in the gym, playing sports, competitively swimming, and living my life - all thanks to the hands and know-how of Dr. Khurana. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone having spinal issues. I'm back to 100%. He didn't push me for surgery, and we tried several other options prior to. My only regret was waiting two years to find Dr. Khurana, but boy am I thanking my lucky stars that I did.

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Sanjay Khurana, MD

Dr Khurana and his wonderful staff at DISC Sport and Spine actually get 10 stars!. In the last year, Dr Khurana performed 2 spine surgeries on me (cervical- ACDF and a lumbar XLIF) and both surgeries were the best things I've ever done. Dr Khurana is an amazingly skilled and competent surgeon and he is incredibly patient and explanatory throughout the whole process. His NP Susan is fantastic as are all of the nurses in the surgery center and support staff in the office.Over the last 18 months I consulted with 8 different ortho and neuro surgeons in LA, SF and Sacramento regarding my low back pain that had been on-going for over 10 years. Dr Khurana was the only clinician who suggested that less is more for me...and he performed an XLIF . Not many surgeons are adept at doing an XLIF, but I've had 2 Physical Therapist's that have been completely shocked that I'm up to the level of activity with no pain at 3 months post op. I'm thrilled to be able to get back to being an athlete again...and it's due to Dr Khurana.

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Sanjay Khurana, MD

Ok so if you have done your homework, you will learn very quickly that this guy is as good as it gets. I saw "all" of the best guys in town (@500 per appointment) and let me tell you flat out if you want to have or are considering a cervical disc replacement, this is the guy to see. Period. 4 days post op and although my throat is a bit sore it is amazing how little impact my surgery was. He has done more artificial disc replacements, than anyone. Unless you want to simply fuse your neck, there is not a better solution in the LA area period. I will write more later. Do your homework, watch the videos online. This guy knows his craft.

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Hyun Bae, MD

I've had degenerative disc disease most of my adult life. In my mid 40's I decided to get into shape to reduce the side effects of a bad L5 and in doing so started to get sciatica 5 yrs into my fitness obsession. I went to my first ortho who did nothing but put me on Vicodin (which I refused to take) and prescribed me physical therapy. That only made my situation worse. I had 2 epidural shots which seem to work momentarily but eventually wore off. Then I found dr. Bae!!! This man is an amazing surgeon and doctor! His staff is the best, his bedside manner is great, he's a life changer and I can't recommend him to enough people! He's also into cutting edge technology with the use of stem cells for spine rejuvenation (I think I'm saying that right). Anyway, if your suffering and your quality of life is affected def go see him.....it's worth the time to have your life changed for the better!! Thank you Dr. Bae!!!

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr Estess treated my 14 year old son for a lower back injury. She was both caring and thorough. She took the time to answer all our questions as well.

Allyson Estess, MD

If I could give Dr Bae and his team more stars, I would. Today I am post-op day 4 ( anterior cervical disc replacement and hybrid fusion on another level)- I feel amazing. My arm, hand, shoulder and scapula pain was gone since post-op day 1. I have minimal incision pain, a resolving sore throat and some muscle spasms which are expected, but overall I feel much better than prior to my surgery. Dr Bae and his team exceeded all my expectations. I can never thank him and his team enough for giving me a new chance to live a good life- quality of life is very important. :)

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Hyun Bae, MD

I just returned from my first visit with Dr Bae today, 5 weeks after two fusions, L-3-4,4-5. Believe me I tried for two years to avoid surgery but after 3 epidurals I was in so much pain I had no other choice. I went to others for their opinions but when I met Dr. Bae I knew I had the surgeon(fine carpenter) that I wanted to take the risk with. Well....the minute I opened my eyes after surgery I knew the devil that had lived in my back was GONE! I'll be honest, the first few days required a lot of pain meds but after a week I felt so much better. I did everything that was asked of me and now I am feeling so grateful for the magic that Dr. Bae performed on my spine. Lisa is his PA. She is a great complement to Dr Bae and she was always available (best by e-mail) for any questions or concerns. You know you have made the right decision when you walk in to the hospital the day of your surgery and every member of the hospital staff tells you...Dr. Bae...he's the best!

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Hyun Bae, MD

I thought that I would always be in pain. I had back problems since I was a teenager, Dr. Bae couldn't see the problem, in my MRI but could see that I was in excruciating pain. He sent me for bloodwork and a biopsy which confirmed that I had an infected disc and an absess in my psoas muscle. He removed the infected disc, Drained the absess and worked with an infectious disease specialist To find the right antibiotics to make sure the absess didn't come back 8 weeks later, I walk better than I ever have and am completely pain free. His PA, Lisa Cano, kept my family posted every step of the way. I feel so lucky......I feel 20 years younger and starting exercising again. Thanks Dr. Bae!!!! L. d.

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Hyun Bae, MD

I went to see Dr Bae after doing a lot of research on spine surgeons. I found Dr Bae to be the most qualified surgeon in SoCal. The first time we met Dr Bae made me feel comfortable and confident with the decision to operate on my C5-7 discs . The surgery went perfectly and 7 weeks out from surgery I am definitely improving. Dr Bae's bedside manners were awesome and even had my Dad commenting on how nice and profession he was. His staff is professional and curtious . His right hand Lady Lisa ROCKS! Super nice and caring. I was extremely nervous about the impending surgery and she eased my concerns. Obviously you can't please everyone but I am definitely on happy patient. I am a local firefighter and the injury I have is very common in my industry. I have recommended Dr Bea to a number of my coworkers.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Thank you Dr Bae for giving me back a pain free life. I can't believe that it's only been two month since the surgery and very very happy with the results. Would recommend Dr. Bae to anyone with a back problem.

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dear Dr. Hunt, I want to thank you so much for making me enjoy life again. My hip was hurting so much when I came to see you I could hardly stand for any length of time. You diagnosed the problem, It was coming from my spine. You said one of my discs was wearing out and was on an angle that was pinching a nerve . I have been completly free of pain since the Surgery. Thankfully, H. Ader. Los Angeles, Ca.

Leonel Hunt, MD