Request a call Registration Login

Back surgery recommended? Make sure it’s truly necessary.

Many spinal surgeries – such as disc operations or spinal fusions – are performed too early or unnecessarily.
A second opinion from a German spine specialist helps you understand whether surgery is really needed – and what alternatives exist.

  • Top German doctors review your case
  • 100% online – from the comfort of your home
  • We use your MRI or scan results – no new tests needed
  • English-speaking support throughout the process

Get a Second Opinion Now
Image
Up to 85% of spine surgeries could be avoided – with the right second opinion.

Up to 85% of spine surgeries could be avoided – with the right second opinion.

Back surgery is often recommended for pain – but not always with good reason. Studies from Germany show: many spine procedures, like disc surgeries or fusions, are done too early or without testing all non-surgical options.¹

  • A second opinion helps avoid unnecessary surgery – and uncover safer options. 

  • Even when surgery is needed, the timing or method is often not ideal.

  • Most patients aren’t told about safer options – like physiotherapy or pain management.


¹ Bertelsmann Stiftung: "Faktencheck Rücken-OPs", 2018

Request a Second Opinion
85%

of spine surgeries were avoided or significantly changed after a second opinion

50%

of spine diagnoses were corrected or refined by a second specialist review

83%

of patients received a different or improved treatment plan after expert review

3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Second Opinion

Avoid Unnecessary Surgery

Many spine surgeries happen too early – or aren’t needed at all. A second opinion often uncovers safer options like physiotherapy or injections – just as effective, without surgery risks.

Unnecessary Surgery

Choose the Right Method – and Timing

Even when surgery is needed, the method matters. A second opinion ensures the best technique and timing – so the operation is done properly, and not too early.

Right Method

Confirm or Correct the Diagnosis

Wrong diagnoses often lead to wrong surgeries. A second opinion may detect overlooked findings in scans or missed details in reports.

Correct the Diagnosis

Germany’s Leading Orthopedists – Ready to Review Your Case

We partner with Germany’s leading spine specialists to give you the best advice possible. Unsure who’s right for your case? Contact us – we’ll guide you.

Dirk Schemmann
Dirk Schemmann
Profile
Private Practice
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ole Ackermann
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ole Ackermann
Profile
Own practice
Dr. med. Christian Schoch
Dr. med. Christian Schoch
Profile
Senior Physician
PD Dr. med. Klaus John Schnake
PD Dr. med. Klaus John Schnake
Profile
Head, Center for Spinal and Scoliosis Surgery
More Doctors

How it works

Choose a Doctor

Choose a Doctor

Find the right expert for your case. Unsure who fits? Just message us – we’ll guide you.

Submit a Request

Submit a Request

Upload your records in minutes. It’s fast, secure, and requires no extra appointments.

Consultation

Consultation

Get your written expert opinion in days. Need more? Add a video consult anytime.

Read more

What Our Patients Say

Spine Surgery Avoided
Image

"I was scheduled for lumbar spine surgery due to chronic back pain and a suspected disc herniation (L5-S1). Before going through with it, I submitted my case to AskGermanDoc. The German specialist reviewed my MRI and concluded that conservative treatment was still a valid option. Thanks to that second opinion, I avoided surgery – and after 3 months of physiotherapy, my symptoms improved significantly. I’m incredibly relieved and thankful." David H., 47, Manchester

Cardiologist Found a Better Plan
Image

"I asked for a second opinion regarding a heart condition (mild mitral valve regurgitation and high blood pressure). The cardiologist from AskGermanDoc provided a detailed review of my case and suggested a change in medication – plus recommended further diagnostic testing that hadn’t been considered before. The process was fast, clear, and very professional. I finally feel like I have a treatment plan that really fits my case." Johan M., 61, Rotterdam

Still have questions? We can help

Need help choosing the right doctor? Our team is here to guide you – or reach out via WhatsApp: (+49) 211 54229835
Choose the way to contact you
Your request has been successfully sent
The email has been resent
An email to change the password has been sent to your email

We use cookies

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website, analyze traffic, and personalize content and ads using services such as Facebook, Google, Yandex, and others. You can choose to accept or decline non-essential cookies. For more details, please see our Privacy Policy