Has anyone heard of this florida doctor.

[Mark Kim]

I will be going to florida for a consultation with Dr. Javier Garcia-Bengochea? Apparently, my facets are too worn out for adr surgery at the l5-s1 level. I have been researching doctors in the U.S. who specialize in MIS Fusion surgeries and this was one of the names that came up. I am also considering seeing Dr. Clavel since he also seems to specialize in MIS surgeries. I know many on this board have received an ADR from him but has anyone gone to get other surgeries like fusion? I moved from the U.S. to Seoul Korea which is why Spain actually would be a better choice distance wise.

thanks
Mark

[Harrison]

Mark, you live and will remain in Korea? There are many highly experienced spine surgeons there in your back yard.

[Mark Kim]

I have been trying to do some research and could not find any. The problem is that many doctors will not take my insurance and it would be cash first. If you have any recommendations for doctors here please let me know.

thanks

[Harrison]

Mark,

Try the search function, which has basic and advanced features that will search back through seven years of posts. For example, I found 51 hits, one of which will take you a topic that identifies some spine docs in Korea:

http://www.adrsupport.org/forums/f50...2008-oct-9606/

(Thanks Steve, for posting this abstract.)

I'll put out some info requests too. Hope this is a start.

[Dingie]

Hi,

I am 5 days postop for an ADR lumbar L2-L5 with Dr. Clavel. I live in Florida and Dr. Garcia Benchochea is my US neurosurgeon. Dr. garcia is well credentialed and knowledgeable in neurosurgery. His focus is on minimally invasive fusion instrumentation and techniques.

If I were to have a fusion he was my first choice and in my town. However, he recommended ADR which he will tell you he has done 4 lumbar and a few more than that cervical. He hasnt pursued it because the insurance doesnt pay often. Because of this he doesnt even try usually.

I saw him several times. After my discography was positive for multiple levels he said, well lets not do anything just live with it. When we discussed later my plan to go to Dr. Clavel, his primary questions were how much was I paying, was it cash, did I pay the hospital separate. Needless to say not a stellar visit.

I will say he is well respected in my area. I was very pleased with Dr. El, the hospital, really well taken care of. I am sure you will find on this site many good docs. Good luck with the search!

Dingie