Dr. Juan Aquino — Orthopaedic Surgeon and Spine Surgeon
Brazilian medical registration: CRM-RJ 52.99624-6 | RQE 28310.
Home › Spine Surgery Second Opinion
Have you been advised to undergo spine surgery? A second opinion is an opportunity to review the recommendation, discuss alternatives and clarify what the proposed treatment aims to improve. Dr. Juan Aquino provides consultations in English, Spanish and Portuguese, with in-person appointments in Rio de Janeiro.
Whether you are considering a discectomy, decompression or spinal fusion, bring your questions and existing records. A consultation does not commit you to surgery or travel to Brazil.
When to Seek a Second Opinion
You may want another assessment when you have received different recommendations, are unsure why an operation was proposed, or need a clearer explanation of the alternatives and recovery. You can also ask about persistent symptoms after previous treatment.
The purpose is an informed decision. The assessment may support the original recommendation, suggest another option or identify information needed before deciding. Agreement between opinions can be useful too.
What We Discuss
- How your symptoms, examination findings and imaging relate to the proposed diagnosis.
- Which treatments you have tried and how you responded.
- The reason for the proposed operation, its goals and its limitations.
- Whether nonsurgical care, further assessment or a different technique should be discussed.
- Questions about risks, rehabilitation, follow-up and the consequences of delaying treatment.
For selected conditions, surgery may be considered when appropriate nonsurgical treatment has not helped. The indication must fit the clinical findings. Endoscopy is one possible technique, not a substitute for establishing whether surgery is needed. See AAOS guidance on minimally invasive spine surgery.
Documents to Prepare
- Your MRI or CT reports and access to the complete images, with dates.
- A brief timeline of pain, numbness, weakness and limitations in daily activities.
- Previous consultation notes and the proposed procedure, if available.
- Previous operations, discharge summaries and relevant treatment records.
- Medication and allergy lists, relevant health conditions and your main questions.
Ask the team which channel to use for medical documents before sending them. A radiology report alone may not provide enough information. Do not arrange new tests solely for this appointment unless advised.
How It Works
- 1. Contact the team: provide your country, city, time zone and preferred language.
- 2. Confirm arrangements: ask about availability, consultation fees, format and how to share records.
- 3. Discuss your case: review the information available and the questions that matter to you.
- 4. Agree on next steps: clarify whether you need local examination, further investigation, continued treatment or an in-person visit.
Online Assessment and Its Limits
An online second opinion may be possible, depending on your location and the appropriate arrangements for remote care. Availability must be confirmed before booking. A video consultation cannot reproduce every part of a physical or neurological examination.
You may need assessment by a clinician where you live. Confirm what written documentation can be provided, its language and any additional fee. Prescriptions, insurance acceptance and remote follow-up should not be assumed.
Do not wait for a second opinion if you develop new bladder or bowel control problems, numbness around the genitals or anus, or severe or worsening weakness in both legs. Seek emergency care where you are. This appointment and WhatsApp are not emergency services. See NHS warning signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request a second opinion without planning surgery in Brazil?
Yes. The consultation can focus on understanding an existing recommendation and the next steps. You are not committing to treatment with Dr. Aquino.
Can I have an online spine surgery second opinion?
Ask the team to confirm availability for your location. Some questions require an in-person examination or additional records.
Can I discuss spinal fusion?
Yes. Bring the proposed procedure and the reasons given for it. The consultation can address the treatment goals, alternatives and questions that remain.
Can I ask whether endoscopic surgery is suitable?
Yes. Suitability depends on the diagnosis and assessment. A second opinion does not guarantee that endoscopy can replace the proposed operation.
Do you review herniated disc and spinal stenosis cases?
These conditions can be discussed during an assessment. Bring the full imaging and treatment history so the discussion is not based only on the report.
Do I need a new MRI?
Not automatically. Prepare your existing images and their dates; the clinician will advise if additional investigation is needed.
Can I request an opinion after previous spine surgery?
Yes. Include the operative report, discharge summary and imaging when available, and explain how your symptoms changed.
Will I receive a written report in English?
Confirm the available documentation, language, scope and any additional cost with the team before booking.
How much does the consultation cost?
Contact the team for the current consultation fee and payment arrangements. Insurance reimbursement must be checked directly with your insurer.
Will the second opinion necessarily disagree with my surgeon?
No. It may confirm the recommendation, identify alternatives or explain why more information is needed. The goal is to help you understand your options.
Request Your Assessment
Tell the team your country, time zone and preferred language. Prepare your questions before the appointment so the discussion can focus on your priorities.
Patient Reviews
Reviews may appear in their original language. Individual experiences do not predict another patient’s result.
Medical Information
Further reading: AAOS — Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and NHS — Back Pain. These resources provide general information and do not endorse this service.
This page is educational. Diagnosis and treatment require an individual medical assessment.