American patient receives minimally invasive spine surgery in Chongqing
Chongqing Medical University’s Second Affiliated Hospital describes coordination, assessment and postoperative discharge for an American patient with longstanding spinal stenosis.
Published by CareAtlas · Editorial policy
An American patient named Cindy underwent minimally invasive spine surgery at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University and was discharged in late September 2026 after postoperative checks. The hospital’s October 9 report describes both her treatment and the coordination needed after she decided to travel to China.
Seeking care for longstanding pain
Cindy had lived with spinal stenosis for more than ten years. Back and leg pain had become severe enough that she needed help walking, while turning over in bed could wake her at night. She read about spine specialist Chu Lei online and booked a flight to Chongqing to seek care from his team.
The decision left practical questions unresolved: how to register, when she could be assessed and how long she might wait for surgery. She contacted Chu through a social-media platform and sent a request for treatment. The hospital’s international medical centre then stepped in to arrange a consultation time. Cindy had initially worried that the surgeon’s operating schedule might be full and that her sudden journey would leave her waiting a long time.
Coordinating assessment and admission
Yu Huihong, head of the international medical centre, said the team considered her limited mobility, unfamiliarity with local procedures and long journey when planning her care. Several departments coordinated the sequence of visits to reduce unnecessary travel for the patient.
After arriving in Chongqing, Cindy underwent outpatient examinations and assessment before admission. Chu’s spine and pain team reviewed her condition, and she subsequently received minimally invasive spinal surgery.
Walking after surgery and completing checks
Cindy said she had relied on a wheelchair when she arrived, but could get out of bed and walk on the second day after surgery. She reported that walking felt easier. After completing postoperative examinations, she was discharged in late September and said she intended to spend another two days visiting Chongqing.
The hospital also reported treating more than 2,000 foreign patients in 2025, with many coming from Europe, North America and Southeast Asia.