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Why Choose
Endoscopic Spine Surgery Abroad
Choosing to have endoscopic spine surgery abroad is becoming the preferred route for UK patients who want faster relief from back pain without the trauma of "open" surgery or the high price tag of UK private care. Here’s why:
Swift Scheduling
Get your surgery within 2–4 weeks rather than waiting 12–18 months on an NHS list for standard decompression.
Save up to 60%
Complete packages from approx. £5,500, covering surgery, MRI, stay, and transfers—compared to £15,000+ in the UK.
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Minimally Invasive Tech
Access advanced endoscopic systems (7mm incisions) often not widely available in standard UK hospitals, which still rely on "open" or "micro" techniques.
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Awake Surgery Options
Many endoscopic procedures can be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, eliminating the risks of general anaesthetic and speeding up recovery.
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All-Inclusive Care
Private ensuite room, meals, English-speaking coordinator, and airport transfers are standard parts of the deal.
What happens during
Endoscopic Spine Surgery Abroad
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Initial Consultation
You share your recent MRI scans and medical details with us. Our neurosurgeons review them to confirm if endoscopic spine surgery is suitable for your condition.
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Surgery Planning
A video consultation is arranged with your surgeon to explain the procedure, answer your questions, and plan your treatment before you travel.
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Minimally Invasive Surgery
The surgeon makes a tiny 7–10 mm incision. A dilator gently separates the muscle fibres instead of cutting them, which helps reduce pain and speed up recovery.
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Nerve Decompression
An endoscope provides a clear, magnified view of the spine. Using precise instruments or laser technology, the surgeon removes the disc material or bone pressing on the nerve.
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Recovery and Discharge
The incision is closed with a single stitch or medical tape. Most patients walk within a few hours and return to their hotel the same day or the next morning.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
The endoscopic advantage means you recover weeks—sometimes months—faster than with traditional surgery.
- Days 1–3:
Immediate relief from leg pain (sciatica) is common. You will be walking around your hotel and can fly home after 3–5 days. - Weeks 1–2:
Light activity and walking are encouraged. Most patients return to desk jobs or sedentary work within 1–2 weeks. - Weeks 4–6:
You can typically resume driving and light gym work. The small incision has healed completely. - Month 3:
Return to full sport and physical activities.
Price Comparison: EU vs UK
Whether you need a simple discectomy or spinal decompression, endoscopic surgery abroad offers premium care at a fraction of the cost—without compromising on safety.
Where Will I Go?
KCM Clinic – Jelenia Gora, Poland
Located near Kraków, Allmedica is a hub for minimally invasive spinal care.
- Why here? Surgeons specialise in endoscopic discectomy and stabilisation.
- The Vibe: Modern, glass-fronted facility that feels more like a wellness centre than a hospital.
- Patient Verdict: "Spotless facilities. I had my MRI and surgery within 48 hours of arriving."
ORTO Klinika – Riga, Latvia
A dedicated orthopaedic and spine centre of excellence in the Baltics.
- Why here? Specialises in treating UK patients; staff are fluent in English.
- The Vibe: Private ensuite rooms with river views and à la carte menus.
- Patient Verdict: "It felt more like checking into a hotel. My room was private, and the nurses were incredibly attentive."
Is Endoscopic Spine Surgery Overseas Safe?
Absolutely. In fact, many European clinics are ahead of the UK in adopting endoscopic techniques, as they are specialised centres rather than general hospitals.
- Strict Regulation: Clinics in the EU operate under strict EU healthcare directives.
- High Volume Experience: Our partner surgeons often perform over 300 endoscopic cases a year, far more than the average UK consultant.
- Low Infection Risk: Because the surgery is performed under continuous saline irrigation (water flow), the risk of infection is virtually zero compared to open surgery.
How to Book Your Spine Surgery Abroad
Booking is straightforward and fully supported by Thera Travel from day one.
- Get a Free Review: Send us your MRI scan. Our medical team will confirm if endoscopic surgery can fix your issue.
- Video Consultation: Meet your surgeon via Zoom to discuss the procedure and ask questions.
- Schedule: Choose a date that suits you. We can often book you within 2 weeks.
- Fly & Treat: We arrange your airport pickup and hotel. A local coordinator will be with you at the hospital.
- Recover: Fly home pain-free. We provide a full medical report for your GP and follow up with you remotely.
“From the first inquiry to flying home, the support was exceptional.”
“Clean, efficient, friendly. I wish I’d gone abroad sooner.”
“Top-class care for half the price of UK surgery.”
“From the moment I landed, an English-speaking nurse met me at arrivals, and I had my first physio session within 24 hours of surgery. I never felt rushed - just cared for.”
– Mark L.
29-year-old five-a-side footballer
(ACL reconstruction, Poland)
– Mark L.
29-year-old five-a-side footballer
(ACL reconstruction, Poland)
“Before I travelled to Latvia for my knee surgery, I was hesitant. But honestly, it felt more like checking into a hotel than a hospital. My room was private and spotless, with a big window and meals brought in three times a day. It was quiet, calm, and the staff couldn’t have been more attentive. That level of comfort helped me recover quickly, and I never felt rushed out the door.”
“Is it safe?”“I had the same question. But after speaking with my care coordinator and reading about the clinic’s certifications, I felt reassured. The hospital in Poland was modern and far cleaner than the NHS ward I’d visited previously. My surgeon explained everything clearly, and all the nurses spoke fluent English. By the time I left, I felt I’d received care that matched,or exceeded,what I could have had in the UK.”
“Before going to Latvia for my hip replacement, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But it honestly felt more like staying at a hotel. My private room was spotless, meals were delivered to my bedside, and everything was calm and well-organised. The attention to comfort made a real difference in my recovery.”
“Is it safe?” “I wondered the same. But after reviewing the clinic’s credentials and talking to the coordinator, I was confident. The hospital in Poland was cleaner and more modern than the NHS ward I’d seen. My surgeon took time to explain every step, and the nursing staff spoke fluent English. By the end of my stay, I felt fully informed and very well looked after.”
(Former patients provide more stories on our Trustpilot page.)
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Is Orthopaedic treatment abroad safe?
Our Orthopaedic Treatments
Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad
Travelling abroad for hip replacement surgery is an increasingly appealing choice for those seeking faster access to care, cost-effective treatment, or specific clinical preferences. Hip pain and limited mobility can significantly affect your quality of life, making everyday activities like walking or sitting a challenge. For many facing NHS backlogs or high private fees, hip replacement surgery abroad provides a faster, affordable, and medically safe alternative.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Abroad
Arthroscopic (or keyhole) knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pain, stiffness, or limited mobility caused by issues like torn cartilage, ligament damage, or loose bone fragments inside the joint. With Thera Travel, you can skip NHS waiting lists and access fast, expert care at leading European clinics - featuring modern facilities, English-speaking specialists, and treatment that meets strict international standards. All at significantly lower cost than in the UK, with full support from consultation to recovery.
Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad
Knee replacement surgery abroad is a popular option for individuals with severe knee pain and reduced mobility caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. Many patients from the UK and Ireland choose to have knee replacement surgery abroad to avoid lengthy NHS waiting lists and benefit from more affordable private care in trusted international clinics.
High Tibial Osteotomy Surgery Abroad
Living with persistent knee pain due to arthritis or joint misalignment can make everyday life frustrating. For many in the UK, the wait to get high tibial osteotomy (HTO) surgery on the NHS stretches into months, sometimes longer. HTO surgery is a joint-preserving procedure that realigns the knee to reduce pressure on the damaged area, easing pain and delaying or avoiding a full knee replacement. If you're waiting too long or facing high private costs, Thera Travel offers a trusted way forward.
ACL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad
Waiting months - sometimes longer - for knee surgery can feel unbearable when every step, twist, or unexpected wobble reminds you that your joint isn’t stable. UK waiting-list backlogs mean many active people are left sidelined, anxious about worsening cartilage damage and the risk of arthritis down the line. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a precision procedure that replaces the torn ligament - usually with a small tendon graft from your hamstring or patella - so the knee can regain full stability and range of motion.
Hip Arthroscopy Surgery Abroad
If you've been told your hip pain will "settle over time" or you've been left waiting with only exercises and no progress, you're not alone. Many NHS patients face long delays and limited options, even when dealing with clear joint damage like impingement or labral tears.
Femoral Osteotomy Surgery Abroad
Femoral osteotomy is a specialised orthopaedic procedure designed to realign the femur and improve joint function, most often performed in cases of hip dysplasia, leg length discrepancies, or abnormal joint loading. If you’ve been advised this surgery but are facing long NHS wait times, you’re not alone. Many patients are left in limbo, unsure when relief will come. That’s where Thera Travel steps in.
PCL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn ligament at the back of the knee. If you’re facing long NHS delays or struggling with knee instability, Thera Travel offers a faster, trusted solution. We arrange PCL reconstruction surgery abroad with top-tier orthopaedic clinics, giving you rapid access to expert care at a more affordable price.
Ankle Replacement Surgery Abroad
If you're living with ankle pain and limited mobility but facing long NHS delays or high UK private fees, ankle replacement surgery abroad could be the right choice. With Thera Travel, you get fast access to expert surgeons, transparent costs, and full travel and rehab support from start to finish.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery Abroad
If you're facing long NHS wait times or have been told your condition isn’t severe enough to qualify for surgery just yet, you're not alone. Many people living with shoulder pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility are left without timely treatment. Shoulder replacement surgery abroad offers a trusted alternative, with faster access, lower costs, and expert care supported throughout by Thera Travel.
Ankle Fusion Surgery Abroad
Looking to avoid long NHS delays for ankle surgery? Ankle fusion surgery abroad offers faster access, lower costs, and full travel and rehab support. Thera Travel connects you with trusted European clinics for expert ankle care you can count on.
Bunion Surgery Abroad
If you're living with the discomfort of a bunion and facing long NHS delays or high private fees, bunion surgery abroad could be a welcome option. Thera Travel offers access to trusted European clinics with shorter waiting times, lower costs, and complete travel and care coordination.
Spinal Fusion Surgery Abroad
Speak directly to patients who’ve been told they may need spinal fusion but are stuck waiting on NHS lists or can’t afford private surgery. Briefly explain what spinal fusion is: stabilising the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae, often due to degenerative disc disease or instability. Introduce Thera Travel: we connect UK/Ireland patients with top-rated European spine centres, arranging everything from medical records to rehab.
MCL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad
If you’ve been told your MCL will "heal on its own" but you're still dealing with knee pain or instability, you're not alone. Many people in the UK face long NHS waits or limited treatment options for ligament injuries. MCL reconstruction abroad offers a fast, affordable, and high-quality alternative. With Thera Travel, you get fast access to leading orthopaedic surgeons in trusted European clinics. We handle everything from your medical records and flights to rehab and follow-up, so you can focus on getting back to the activities you love.
Scoliosis Surgery Abroad
If you’re living with scoliosis and facing long NHS wait times or high private fees in the UK, scoliosis surgery abroad offers a faster, more affordable solution. As a form of specialised spinal surgery abroad, it can help correct spinal curvature, relieve pain, and improve mobility. Thera Travel connects you with trusted European spine centres that deliver world-class care at transparent prices, with full support from your initial consultation through to recovery.
Laminectomy Surgery Abroad
Travelling abroad for laminectomy surgery is an increasingly appealing choice for those seeking faster access to care, cost-effective treatment, or specific clinical preferences. Back pain and limited mobility can significantly affect your quality of life, making everyday activities a challenge. For many facing NHS backlogs or high private fees, surgery abroad provides a faster, affordable, and medically safe alternative.