Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/) Reviewer names are abbreviated. Patient reviews describe individual experiences. Review counts describe source records, not unique patients or clinical outcomes; the acquired snapshot may not include complete platform histories. Clinical education and patient accounts do not replace a consultation. Reviews by topic · Conditions # Stenosis. *In patients’ words.* When you are looking into stenosis, the details people share can help you prepare for a conversation. These patient reviews mention the subject directly and link to the clinician and original source. **27** matching reviews **5** clinicians [Meet the clinicians ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/#catalog-clinicians) [Read every matching review ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/#review-browser) This collection shows written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars. A stenosis mention does not always identify the anatomy. Read the full review for context and bring clinical questions to your treating clinician. [Read this catalog as Markdown](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/index.md) People behind your care ## Meet the clinician. *Hear the experience.* Clinician order rotates between visits. Each portrait stays with that clinician’s patient accounts. Read the full reviews for context. [Amandeep Bhalla, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/#clinician-amandeep-bhalla-m-d) [Evish Kamrava, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/#clinician-evish-kamrava-m-d) [Hyun Bae, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/#clinician-hyun-bae-md) [Leonel Hunt, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/#clinician-leonel-hunt) [Sanjay Khurana, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/#clinician-sanjay-khurana-m-d) [![Amandeep Bhalla, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/amandeep-bhalla-m-d.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) Meet our team ## [Amandeep Bhalla, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine 6 matching reviews [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-m-d/) Excerpt > He showed me on the MRI that I have spinal stenosis and a synovial cyst at L4/5 pushing against the nerves. T. Chisam Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: October 25, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106616942405897080906/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD Excerpt > Bhalla’s team performed a 360 spinal fusion, installing hardware to correct my scoliosis and stenosis. G. Baker Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: September 2, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104307730570001979823/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD [Read all 6 matching accounts for Amandeep Bhalla, MD →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/?provider=amandeep-bhalla-m-d#review-browser) [![Evish Kamrava, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/evish-kamrava-m-d.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/evish-kamrava-md/) Meet our team ## [Evish Kamrava, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/evish-kamrava-md/) Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Pain Management 2 matching reviews [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/evish-kamrava-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/evish-kamrava-m-d/) Excerpt > Unfortunately I have stenosis in my cervical spine and we worked out a game plan as far as when we are doing the epidural. E. Kandel Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: April 17, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112149368567718750930/place/ChIJi_9WeE-7woARVE5YYjWvq60) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Evish Kamrava, MD Excerpt > He also does great epidural injections for stenosis. L. Cauffiel Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: February 15, 2023 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112812428700670285016/place/ChIJi_9WeE-7woARVE5YYjWvq60) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Evish Kamrava, MD [Read all 2 matching accounts for Evish Kamrava, MD →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/?provider=evish-kamrava-m-d#review-browser) [![Hyun Bae, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/hyun-bae-md.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) Meet our team ## [Hyun Bae, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine 8 matching reviews [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/hyun-bae-md/) Excerpt > Dr Bae took his time to think out and explain everything. He showed us pictures of my neck stenosis MRI and what the surgery entailed. M. Stern Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: September 4, 2026 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/108159472770181468255/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD Excerpt > My diagnosis was spinal stenosis. J. M. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: February 4, 2020 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=taH4htoEduVWcimd5ttTOg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD [Read all 8 matching accounts for Hyun Bae, MD →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/?provider=hyun-bae-md#review-browser) [![Leonel Hunt, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/leonel-hunt.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) Meet our team ## [Leonel Hunt, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine 1 matching review [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) Excerpt > I had had great pain and trouble walking any distance. He quickly diagnosed my problem, spinal stenosis, with a vertebrae pressing against my spinal cord. J. O'HARA Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: November 14, 2021 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/110140510137563744761/place/ChIJF7fYUkm5woAR9WJ_99t9UR4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Leonel Hunt, MD [Read all 1 matching accounts for Leonel Hunt, MD →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/?provider=leonel-hunt#review-browser) [![Sanjay Khurana, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/sanjay-khurana-m-d.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/sanjay-khurana-md/) Meet our team ## [Sanjay Khurana, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/sanjay-khurana-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine 10 matching reviews [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/sanjay-khurana-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/sanjay-khurana-m-d/) Excerpt > I had severe spinal stenosis in L5 and L6 in 2020. S. Wales Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: November 1, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100254928329163643496/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD Excerpt > I had the stenosis surgery in November 2023 with Dr Khurana. K. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: January 14, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112221545477045445187/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD [Read all 10 matching accounts for Sanjay Khurana, MD →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/?provider=sanjay-khurana-m-d#review-browser) Make it personal ## What matters *in your conversation?* Use the accounts here to think about the questions you want to bring to our team. - What concerns about stenosis do I want to explain in my own words? - Which details in these patient accounts would I like to ask our team about? Explore the collection ## Read more *patient experiences.* Browse the written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars that match this topic. Filter by clinician, source, or rating. 27 written reviews Highest rated first · Newest within each rating > Dr Bae took his time to think out and explain everything. He showed us pictures of my neck stenosis MRI and what the surgery entailed. He was kind and thoughtful. He was very reassuring and recommended one more test before the final decision. M. Stern Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: September 4, 2026 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/108159472770181468255/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I traveled from the east coast to see Dr. Bae on the recommendation of a friend in Los Angeles. I was so debilitated by spinal stenosis that I had take a wheel chair to the plane, fly in a lie flat seat, and be wheeled off the plane to meet my ride. By the time I saw Dr. Bae for my surgery, I had tried PT, shots, painkillers, prescription anti inflammatories--literally everything. I had missed family events including a wedding and hadn't taken a pain free walk in years. Dr. Bae performed micro decompression surgery. I walked out of the clinic and have been walking ever since. It's been a month and I'm averaging 11,000 steps a day. I am eternally grateful for Dr. Bae. B. Maloney Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: April 14, 2026 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/116177925611171476652/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I had severe spinal stenosis in L5 and L6 in 2020. Dr. Khurana performed a discectomy. My surgery was a great success, and I no longer had any pain! I even walked up a large stairway in my home on the day I returned home from surgery!! My spinal stenosis has worsened to the point I cannot stand or walk in L3 and L4, and he will be doing another procedure for me soon. I consider Dr. Khurana a miracle surgeon! S. Wales Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: November 1, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100254928329163643496/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > Dr Kamrava really knows his stuff. Seems knowledgeable to me. Unfortunately I have stenosis in my cervical spine and we worked out a game plan as far as when we are doing the epidural. I also have issues with my low back that is next on the list. He gave me a lot of time on the initial visit, really listening. He even called me back after that visit to answer a few more questions. He also is kind. E. Kandel Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: April 17, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112149368567718750930/place/ChIJi_9WeE-7woARVE5YYjWvq60) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Evish Kamrava, MD > I have severe sciatica and have been to a chiropractor and had physical therapy, yet no improvement. My GP ordered an MRI and suggested I see Dr. Bhalla. I'm glad I did. He took the time to make sure I really understood the reason for all the pain. He showed me on the MRI that I have spinal stenosis and a synovial cyst at L4/5 pushing against the nerves. I'm going with corrective surgery, that much to my surprise is outpatient. The office staff is excellent and scheduling the surgery was a breeze. I feel very comfortable with my choice, and am confident I'm in good hands. T. Chisam Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: October 25, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106616942405897080906/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD > Amandeep Bhalla is a highly skilled and caring man. Bhalla’s team performed a 360 spinal fusion, installing hardware to correct my scoliosis and stenosis. He said my surgery was challenging as he found and removed numerous synovial cysts within my spinal column. He did not nick or damage my dura, which must have been quite an impressive feat. My surgery took almost 7 hours; recovery has been slow, sometimes halting, but I’ve steadily improved. I would recommend to anyone who has spine surgery to be patient with their recovery, and to seek out aquatic physical therapy, then progress slowly to water aerobics in a shallow pool. G. Baker Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: September 2, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104307730570001979823/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD > I had one level herniated disc surgery with Dr Khurana in 2010 and the results were.excellent. In 2023 I developed spinal stenosis on two levels in my lower back. I went the route of physical therapy, steroid shots, to no avail. I had the stenosis surgery in November 2023 with Dr Khurana. The results far exceeded my expectations. No more pain and no more trouble walking---and I had a lot of each. Quite amazing actually. K. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: January 14, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112221545477045445187/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > In July, 2023, Dr Bhalla referred me to Dr Karp for injections for my spinal stenosis pain. This was my 4th injection. The last 3 were not successful. > Dr Karp did the procedure on Aug 25, 2023. The pain has lessened a lot. For the first time in 2 years I have days with no pain in my right buttock and leg when walking. Other days pain level is 2/3. > I still cannot stand for any length of time. I experience pain when standing which is relieved by sitting. > I use a cane and walker at home and a rollator when going to medical appointments. R. Senf Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: October 13, 2023 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/117083284696656809611/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD > Dr Khurana performed L4/5 stenosis laser surgery 8 years ago with unbelievable results. Now my issues are with disc herniation. Dr. Khurana is not one to offer up surgery as a 1st option. Twice over the past 2 years he’s recommended a more cautioned approach & has referred a pain management Dr. who will provide steroid shots & or an epidural steroid injection in the troubled discs. If they fail to provide necessary relief then alternate options will be considered. Dr. Khurana is not only one of the best in LA he is one of the best in the world. E. Anthony Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: September 2, 2023 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100173598357406821195/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > Exceptional, compassionate care! Dr. Khurana is a patient, kind, wildly competent surgeon. He instills confidence. Many great surgeons lack bedside manner. Dr. Khurana delivers in all aspects. 10 days after 3 cervical spine disc replacements, virtually all of my major pain symptoms associated with severe foramimal stenosis are gone. I will be forever grateful to him and his crew. The staff in the surgical center were also truly outstanding. I’ve been told I can be a “tough customer.” I can tell you Dr. Khurana and company far exceeded all my expectations-which were high to begin with! May all the good Dr. Khurana and staff do come back to them in abundance… J. Johnson Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: April 20, 2023 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111784575210671625661/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > Dr. Khurana is very smart, skillful surgeon and a warm and friendly human being. > He successfully operated the disk hernia and stenosis in L4/5 area about nine years ago. > Just recently I consulted with him again to make sure everything is in stable condition and get his advise on physical therapy. My visit was informative and helpful. > I can say, Dr. Khurana “has my back” for life. S. Lapis Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: February 18, 2023 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104129266438717309662/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > This doctor is a gifted medical magician. I suffered for years with neck pain from a pinched nerve. I couldn't even turn to back up in my car. Rather than neck surgery he did a nerve ablation and all symptoms are gone for years now. He also does great epidural injections for stenosis. Great bedside manner. Assistant Nora is hard working and responsive. What more could you ask for? L. Cauffiel Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: February 15, 2023 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112812428700670285016/place/ChIJi_9WeE-7woARVE5YYjWvq60) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Evish Kamrava, MD > He's my hero. I am 61 years old, had terrible stenosis at L3-4, L4-5. In 2 hours of outpatient surgery he gave me my life back. Pre-surgery, I could hardly move; I considered myself partially paralyzed. And now, I am hiking 5 days a week, 4.5 miles, with a 1000 feet elevation gain and a 1.5 mile run at the end of it. Game changer. M. Schwartz Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: December 17, 2022 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104435770708616014983/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > From the moment I first met Dr. Khurana, I knew my life was going to change in miraculous ways. I've suffered from Spinal Stenosis for many years and now I had 3 collapsed discs in my neck that was affecting the nerves in my arms & my quality of life. Something had to be done immediately. I was wary of Fusion and wanted another option. Dr. Khurana suggested a 3 Level Artificial Disc implant surgery. He was straight forward and to the point. He answered every question I had and never pressured me into anything. He had a gentle confidence to him that was reassuring and I decided to do it. Everyone in his office was great and I was treated with the upmost respect. His assistant Noor had previously gone through the procedure and walked me through each part of the process. She is an incredible person who goes above & beyond for his patients. I'm 8 days post surgery and while I'm not going to say it's been easy, I will say that I am looking forward to having my previous quality of life back again soon. There are difficult choices made in life that you look back on and realize they are blessings , this is one of those for me. Dr. Khurana and his staff are game-changers and I'm forever grateful for the work they do. H. Blonstein Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: July 9, 2022 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/109759575786103851396/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > Best doctor ever. I would recommend him to anyone. He has great bedside manors and is an expert in his field. I had neck surgery and had absolutely no pain and have had excellent results. Eight months later I had lower back surgery for my chronic Spinal Stenosis issues. Again, virtually no pain. That was last October and after three weeks I was walking two miles without pain and playing golf after eight weeks. I feel better than I have in years. Even back to coaching baseball again. Two thumbs up! R. Stewart Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: February 5, 2022 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100603912888106213091/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD > Dr. Hunt and his office are terrific. I had had great pain and trouble walking any distance. He quickly diagnosed my problem, spinal stenosis, with a vertebrae pressing against my spinal cord. He was able to schedule surgery around my work and it was quick and the result was excellent.In and out the same day, and a speedy recovery. I could not be happier and recommend him to any friends in need. J. O'HARA Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: November 14, 2021 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/110140510137563744761/place/ChIJF7fYUkm5woAR9WJ_99t9UR4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Leonel Hunt, MD > Dr. Bhallah is caring and doesn't rush you, he takes his time with you. He is also a very smart guy...I did my research. I have the harrington rods in my spine from 20 yrs ago and now needed more hardware from l5-to s1 to repair some stenosis... im glad he is young so that he can last me a long time. M. Herrera Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: May 25, 2021 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/117373435796786836381/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD > My spinal stenosis is severe, but I just wasn't ready for a back surgery so soon after having both hips replaced. Dr. Bhalla and I proceeded with the less invasive Spinal/Epidural which unfortunately, did not give me the improvement I was looking for. When, and only when I was ready, did we proceed with a Laminectomy and Diskecotomy. I am exactly 1 week past surgery and the future looks bright! So glad to be in such good hands. Will report back after all healing is done...Five Gold Stars from me!!! C. Tiniakos Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: August 6, 2020 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/115038936105999093351/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD > Dr. Khurana communicated very well and laid out surgical treatment option. I’d done physical therapy with out improvement, and he evaluated my MRI and x-rays with a expert’s eye. > > My critical issues were degenerative spondylolisthesis and stenosis that together had come to make walking more than a couple hundred feet difficult with dangerous potential for a bad fall. > > Dr. Khurana explained his surgical approach and I knew I’d found the right surgeon. As he explained, he’s a spine specialist; that’s “all” he does. He uses a minimally invasive approach that makes the surgery much less traumatic for his patients (but probably more technically challenging for the surgeon). I’d been scared of front and back access approaches I’d read about that involved extensive dissection, so I was greatly relieved. > > In my case, I had minimal post-operative pain, (just used cold packs a few times) and one week post-op I’m walking well (with a walker for safety for a few more days) and a back brace to remind me not to Bend, Lift or Twist. > > I’m very happy with results so far! > > I’m very happy with the results so far. R. Moore Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: March 4, 2020 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/103907382503516567646/place/ChIJCTVQzX26woARV5EyXoh3nDU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > If you need back surgery, you cannot find a better surgeon than Dr. Bae!! > > My diagnosis was spinal stenosis. My symptoms were pain in my right hip and leg, plus muscle weakness. I am 78 years old and was nervous about back surgery, so I opted for steroid injections in my back, and this reduced the pain for a couple of months, but did nothing to help the weakness. > > Then, four months ago, I had been sitting on my couch and as I went to stand up, I leaned over to one side and must have twisted my back, when suddenly I was in immense pain and was unable to move my right foot! I went to the emergency room and had an MRI and was told I needed surgery! This is when I called Dr. Bae's office and was told to send my MRI disc and was given an immediate appointment after talking to Dr. Bae's assistant. I saw Dr. Bae on Friday, and watched him review my MRI - his comment was "wow, you need to have surgery, and we can do it on Tuesday!" I was sent nearby for an immediate second MRI and giveen my pre-op instructions for checking in to St. John's that Tuesday. > > I walked out the next morning with no pain. My leg weakness is steadily getting better with therapy and I was able to return to playing badminton in 2 months! > > Dr. Bae has literally saved my way of life. I could not walk without a walker when I had my surgery. Now I am walking my Border Collie and playing badminton! J. M. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: February 4, 2020 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=taH4htoEduVWcimd5ttTOg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > I went to Dr. Bae after finding him through an online search for a second opinion. I am so lucky that I had him operate instead of the doctor that I saw before him. I had spinal stenosis and spinal decompression surgery with a spinal fusion was the standard procedure for my diagnosis. Dr. Bae told me about a clinical trial that I might qualify for that could be performed instead of fusion. I qualified and had the surgery. He performed the surgery at an outpatient hospital and I walked out the same day. I was able to drive in a week and returned to work very part time in two weeks. I am able to do so many things I couldn't do before the surgery and am seeing more and more improvement in the four months since the surgery. I had complete confidence in Dr. Bae's abilities and would highly recommend him to anyone that has spinal problems. He is the best!!! G. G. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: September 30, 2019 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=MUljA2NaTgzMllpidtJWcw&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > Before Dr Bae I had seen 4 other back dr's. All told me I had stenosis in my L3-L5 region. All told me I would need fusion. I went through this over a 6 year period. I refused fusion since It would debilitate me for life. One of the earlier Dr's began to perform newer, minimally invasive procedures when a friend who happens to be a anesthesiologist told me to go see Dr Bae. > I saw Dr Bae in Nov of 2016. I was more than impressed when he told me I did not need fusion. A Lumbar Laminectomy was his prognosis. I saw Dr Bae again in Jan of 2017. Surgery was scheduled for May 2017. Over the 4 month waiting period things changed and the procedure was changed. Still a Laminectomy but now 2 - 6" Carbon Fiber Rods and a titanium spring would also be implanted. > May 15 2017 I went in at 1:30 pm for Surgery. I was in my hospital room at 6:30pm. At 6:30am the next morning I was walking up and down the hallways. I was released 2 days later. > 3 weeks later I was back doing light work. Recovery was amazing. I was able to walk 1/4 mile at first, then 1/2 mile and finally a full mile. > My only mistake was not going to PT when I was told to. A few issues but 4 weeks later I was a champ again. > Dec 2017 I did a 2 mile walk/hike through the desert. I continued to improve. longer walks. less fear about having to park too far away to a store entrance. Sept 2018 I did a 8.5 mile hike through Malibu creek in 3 hours. I could not remember when I was able to go a distance like that with no pain. > Dr Bae can be cold. However he was the warmest and patient man when it came to explaining everything to my wife. Before the surgery he made all the time needed. Lisa can be short. But they do care. The whole office staff cares. > Amazing surgeon. M. Mueller Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: May 2, 2019 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/116402600147045135780/place/ChIJSdGvF0q7woARopa4Y6gfPO4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD > Dr. Sanjay Khurana is my hero! I'm 71 years old and have had back problems all my life with 7 curvatures in my cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine leading to pain, pinched nerves, numbness, etc. I've relied on chiropractic adjustments to alleviate my discomfort for many years, but my condition had been getting worse the last 2-3 years. My back pain was now expanding down both legs and was accompanied by numbness as well. I was now walking like Quasi Moto, hunched over and to the right to relieve some of the pressure on the nerves. > > In May 2018, I saw an orthopedic doctor who took x-rays and sent me for an MRI. Upon reviewing the MRI, he referred me to an orthopedic spine surgeon in his office who informed me that I was precariously close to becoming incontinent (best case scenario) or paralyzed (worst case scenario) due to the severe stenosis I had from L2 to S1 (4 levels) as well as anterolisthesis at L5 on S1. I was scheduled for surgery early July 2018 for decompression at 4 levels and "some" fusion. I was told I would have a scar about 10" long on my back and be on a walker for 4 months. I got all the instructions regarding no bending, lifting (5 lb. max.) or twisting, driving and travel restrictions, etc. This was really depressing since I'm so accustomed to being independent and not relying on others to do things for me. > > I wanted a second opinion so I asked my chiropractor for a recommendation. I showed him the report of my MRI and he referred me to Dr. Khurana, telling me the outcome would be critically dependent upon the surgeon I chose. I called Dr. Khurana's Torrance office at Beach Cities Orthopedic that day and got an appointment for the very next day (he's only at the Torrance office on Wednesdays and I live in the South Bay). Dr. Khurana concurred that I needed surgery and described the technique (microsurgery) he employs in detail for the decompression L2-S1 (4 levels), as well as the anterior approach he preferred for fusion of L4-L5 & L5-S1. This would leave me with about a 4 inch scar on my back. He works with a vascular surgeon to perform the ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion) and his preferred vascular surgeon was Dr. Rao, whose first available date was July 10, 2018 at Providence St. John's Hosp. in Santa Monica, so that's what I signed up for. That vertical abdominal scar is about 3 inches long from the navel down. > > The next part of my story is the best part. I did remarkably well post-op. I never used a walker once after I returned home. Sure I had to wear a back brace whenever I wasn't sitting or lying down, but what a huge relief. I stopped all pain killers and muscle relaxants after 2 weeks. I have no more leg pain or numbness at all. I still feel a little ache in my low back but I assume I will until the fusion is completely healed. I started walking in the neighborhood 10-20 minutes a day and worked up to 1 hour walks in week 4 post-op. I'm almost 3 months post-op now and I only wear the brace when I walk. I do that daily and while walking I think about how I couldn't walk even 5 minutes without pain and numbness before the surgery. I thank God for my blessings every day... and Dr. Khurana. P. R. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: September 30, 2018 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/sanjay-khurana-md-marina-del-rey?hrid=HH59nYmaj4Gb2Ya34LTT4A&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Sanjay Khurana, MD > Dr. Hyun Bae performed lumbar fusion surgery May 15, 2018 at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, CA. My diagnosis was extreme lumbar stenosis, spondylolisthesus, and scoliosis. My legs were giving out from under me and I couldn't walk from the car to the front door even tho' I am athletic and in great shape for 70. Long and short of it, I am extremely happy with the results and grateful we found Dr. Bae. We interviewed several surgeons but found Dr. Bae to be the most informed about my condition and treatment option. His professional attitude was confidence-inspiring, answering all my questions and providing me a sense of security. Back surgery is generally the last therapeutic resolution to extreme back problems and I did everything to prevent having to have it so I am happy but surprised with the results. His staff and his assistant Lisa, were caring, efficient and available throughout the process. That's important if you want your doctor to focus on you! -Guy M. H. M. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: September 10, 2018 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/hyun-bae-md-santa-monica?hrid=oB-PjnL_Vi2IPD5gPWJ_Ng&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Hyun Bae, MD Page 1 of 2 [Next →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/stenosis/page/2/) Understand your options ## Bring your *next good question.* Spine ### [Lumbar spinal stenosis: build care around walking and daily life](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/lumbar-spinal-stenosis-care/) When standing or walking brings leg symptoms, the useful question is how to regain function. Understand the assessment, realistic options, and reasons for considering surgery. 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