Breaking New Ground in Spine Surgery

In July 2024, Mr. Yagnesh Vellore made history by performing the first endoscopic spine surgery at Epworth Richmond Hospital—ushering in a new era of minimally invasive spinal care.

In the heart of Melbourne, at the prestigious Epworth Richmond Hospital, Mr. Yagnesh Vellore—renowned neurosurgeon and spine specialist—achieved a landmark surgical milestone in July 2024: the hospital’s first endoscopic spine surgery. This procedure marked a pivotal moment for Epworth spine surgery.

Endoscopic spine surgery is a cutting-edge technique that uses a small camera and specialized instruments to treat spinal conditions through tiny incisions. Compared to traditional open surgery, it offers reduced blood loss, faster recovery, and minimal scarring. For patients, it means less pain and a quicker return to daily life.

The Man Behind the Milestone

Mr. Vellore is no stranger to innovation. As the Founder and Director of Advanced Neurosurgery, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of spinal care. He was previously the first to perform robotic spine surgery at Epworth, and his pioneering work in disc replacement and disc-sparing technologies has earned him international recognition.

Educated at the University of Melbourne and trained through elite centers in the USA, France and UK, Mr. Vellore combines global expertise with a deep commitment to patient-centered care. His clinical focus includes:

– Minimally invasive (keyhole) spine surgery – Artificial disc replacement (cervical and lumbar) – Robotic and neuronavigated spinal procedures – Anterior and lateral lumbar approaches

He also supervises registrars and residents at Austin Hospital, training the next generation of neurosurgeons, and holds leadership roles in international spine societies such as the North American Spine Society (NASS).

Why This Surgery Matters:

The July 2024 procedure wasn’t just a technical triumph—it was a symbol of progress. Endoscopic spine surgery is still relatively rare in Australia, and Mr. Vellore is among the few surgeons offering it. By bringing this technique to Epworth Richmond, he has expanded access to advanced spinal care for patients across Victoria and beyond.

This approach is especially beneficial for conditions like:

– Herniated discs or prolapsed discs or bulging discs – Sciatica – Spinal stenosis – Cervical radiculopathy and cervical myelopathy – Facet arthropathy or facet arthritis or facet joint syndrome

Patients who once faced long recoveries and significant discomfort now have a safer, faster alternative.

Looking Ahead:

With this milestone, Mr. Vellore continues to redefine what’s possible in neurosurgery. His work at Epworth Richmond sets a precedent for more innovative spine surgery techniques. As technology evolves, so too does the promise of less invasive, more effective treatments for spinal disorders.