Specialists in high‑complexity spinal surgery

Complex Spine Institute is an international medical center based in Barcelona, a leader in minimally invasive surgery, revision of previous surgeries, and correction of spinal deformities. We combine medical excellence with the most advanced technology to offer real, lasting, and personalized solutions to each patient.

Why choose Complex Spine Institute?

1. Minimally invasive surgery

Small incisions (8 mm or less), minimal muscle trauma, and same-day discharge. 85 % of our patients are back at work in under 10 days.

2. State-of-the-art technology

3D navigation and augmented reality for sub‑millimetric precision.
Robotic surgery reducing pedicle‑screw placement errors by 43 %.
Spinal endoscopy: a 1 cm surgical field with HD visualization.

3. Internationally renowned team

Dr. Vicenç Gilete, pioneering neurosurgeon in craniocervical instability and hypermobility syndromes.
Dr. Augusto Covaro, European leader in endoscopy and lateral XLIF/OLIF approaches.

Both are AOspine instructors and active members of Eurospine.

4. Measurable results

Global success rate of 92 % in pain resolution according to the VAS scale.
Less than 1 % reintervention rate over the past 5 years.
Integrated rehabilitation programs and 12‑month online follow‑up.

5. Multilingual and global care

We offer care in Spanish, English, French, and German. We have already treated patients from 27 countries who choose Barcelona for its connectivity and top‑tier healthcare.

Treatments and Conditions

Lumbar and cervical disc herniation

We treat contained and extruded disc herniations with transforaminal endoscopy or tubular microdiscectomy. Results: patients return to sports in under 4 weeks.

Spinal canal stenosis and lumbar osteoarthritis

Selective decompression, minimally invasive laminectomy and, when appropriate, dynamic fusion with interspinous devices.

Adult scoliosis and kyphosis

Multiplanar correction using hybrid techniques (percutaneous fixation combined with anterior release). Benefit: reduced blood loss and preservation of the paravertebral musculature.

Revision surgery / failed back syndrome

We analyze the cause of failure (poor fusion, malpositioned hardware, pseudoarthrosis) using 4D CT and plan the rescue strategy.

Artificial disc replacement

Cervical and lumbar disc replacement with state-of-the-art prostheses that preserve mobility and reduce the risk of adjacent degeneration.

XLIF and OLIF procedures

Lateral interbody fusions that bypass the spinal canal and reduce postoperative pain by 55 %. Discharge within 48 h.

Regenerative medicine

Fluoroscopy‑guided injections of mesenchymal stem cells and PRP to repair degenerated discs and sacroiliac joints.

An internationally renowned team

Dr. Vicenç Gilete

A trailblazing neurosurgeon specializing in cranio-cervical instability and hypermobility syndromes.

Dr. Augusto Covaro

A leading European authority in endoscopic and anterolateral spinal approaches.

Both serve as instructors and trainers and are active members of various medical societies, including GEER, SENEC, SECPEC, AOSpine, and Eurospine.

“Each patient comes with a unique story; our mission is to give them back the life they remember, not merely follow a standard protocol.“
— Dr. Gilete

Integrated Care Pathway

Express Assessment

Upload your MRI/CT images through our secure portal.
Receive a preliminary report within 24 hours.
360° surgical planning overview.
Multidisciplinary case conference.
3D simulation with interactive explanation.
International second opinion included.

Precision Intervention

Surgery at a JCI‑accredited facility.
Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring.

Accelerated Recovery

Same‑day discharge for endoscopy, or 48 h for fusion.
Digital rehabilitation program with guided exercises (app).

Global Follow‑Up

Video‑consultations.
Direct access to your surgeon via secure chat.

Success Stories

María G., 42, Barcelona
“I underwent endoscopic surgery for an L5‑S1 herniated disc and was back to yoga within three weeks—completely pain‑free.”

Laura S., 31, Lyon
“After years of craniocervical instability, Dr. Gilete pinpointed the issue, and now I live without any dizziness.”

James K., 55, London
“I’d had two unsuccessful spinal operations. They corrected the pseudoarthrosis, and I’m cycling again.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need spinal surgery?

If you experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, or have had an unsuccessful previous operation, a specialist evaluation can determine if surgery is necessary.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?

It enables the procedure to be performed with smaller incisions, less bleeding, faster recovery, and reduced postoperative pain.

Do you treat international patients?

Yes, we treat patients from across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. Our team communicates in multiple languages and assists you with travel, accommodation, and postoperative follow‑up.

Can I send my test results before traveling?

Yes. We offer a preliminary online assessment by reviewing your MRIs, CT scans, and medical history before scheduling an in‑person consultation.

In-person or online medical assessment

We assess your case from the very first consultation with image analysis and a personalized clinical examination. You can complete the evaluation from anywhere in the world via teleconsultation or visit our headquarters in Barcelona.