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 return to work in under 10 days.
2. Cutting-edge technology
- 3D navigation and augmented reality for sub-millimetric precision.
- Robotic surgery that cuts pedicle screw placement errors by 43 %.
- Spinal endoscopy: a 1 cm surgical field with HD visualization.
3. Internationally Renowned Team
- Dr. Vicenç Gilete, a pioneering neurosurgeon specializing in craniocervical instability and hypermobility syndromes.
- Dr. Augusto Covaro, a European authority in endoscopic techniques and XLIF/OLIF lateral approaches. Both serve as instructors for AOspine and are active members of Eurospine.
4. Measurable Results
- An overall 92 % success rate in pain relief according to the VAS scale.
- Under 1 % reoperation rate over the past 5 years.
- Integrated rehabilitation programs with 12 months of online follow-up.
5. Multilingual and Global Care
We offer services in Spanish, English, French, and German. Patients from 27 countries choose Barcelona for its connectivity and top-quality hospitals.
Treatments and Conditions
Lumbar and cervical disc herniation
We address contained and extruded disc herniations using transforaminal endoscopy or tubular microdiscectomy. Results: return to sports within 4 weeks.
Spinal canal stenosis and lumbar osteoarthritis
Selective decompression, minimally invasive laminectomy and, when appropriate, dynamic fusion with interspinous devices.
Scoliosis and kyphosis in adults
Multiplanar correction using hybrid techniques (percutaneous fixation + anterior release). Benefit: reduced bleeding and preservation of paravertebral musculature.
Revision surgery / Failed Back Syndrome
We identify the failure’s cause—poor fusion, misplaced instrumentation, or pseudoarthrosis—using 4D CT imaging and plan the optimal revision 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 in 48 hours.
Regenerative Medicine
Injections of mesenchymal stem cells and PRP to repair degenerated discs and sacroiliac joints, guided by fluoroscopy.
Internationally renowned team
Dr. Vicenç Gilete
Pioneering neurosurgeon in craniocervical instability and hypermobility syndromes.
Dr. Augusto Covaro
European authority in endoscopic and anterolateral spinal approaches.
Both serve as instructors and active members of various medical societies such as GEER, SENEC, SECPEC, AOSpine, Eurospine.
“Each patient arrives with a unique story; our mission is to restore the life they remember without being limited by a standard protocol.” — Dr. Gilete
Comprehensive Care Process
- Express evaluation
- Upload your MRI/CT scan to the secure portal.
- Preliminary report within 24 h.
- 360° surgical plan
- Medical board review.
- 3D simulation and interactive explanation.
- International second opinion included.
- Precision intervention
- Surgery at a JCI-accredited hospital.
- Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring.
- Accelerated recovery
- Same-day discharge (endoscopy) or 48 h (fusion).
- Digital rehabilitation program with exercise tracking (app).
- Global follow-up
- Video consultations.
- Direct chat access to your surgeon via a secure platform.
Success Stories
María G., 42, Barcelona “I underwent endoscopic L5–S1 hernia surgery and was back to yoga in three weeks. Pain 0.”
Laura S., 31, Lyon “After years of craniocervical instability, Dr. Gilete identified the issue and now I live without dizziness.”
James K., 55, London “I’d had two unsuccessful operations. They corrected the pseudoarthrosis and I’m back to cycling.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I need spinal surgery?
If you’re dealing with chronic pain, limited mobility, or have previously undergone an unsuccessful operation, a specialist assessment can determine whether surgery is necessary.
What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?
It enables procedures through smaller incisions, less bleeding, faster recovery and reduced postoperative pain.
Do you accept international patients?
Yes, we serve patients from all over Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. Our team communicates in multiple languages and assists you with travel arrangements, accommodation, and postoperative follow-up.
Can I send my test results before traveling?
Yes. We conduct a preliminary online assessment of your MRI and CT scans, along with your medical history, before arranging an in-person consultation.
In-person or online medical evaluation
We evaluate your case from the very first consultation, combining image analysis with a personalized clinical examination. You can be assessed from anywhere in the world via teleconsultation or visit our Barcelona headquarters.