Published on: 23 December 2025
South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust has successfully performed its first endoscopic spinal surgery, introducing a new service that aims to transform recovery for patients undergoing spinal procedures.
The landmark operation took place at Sunderland Royal Hospital and represents a major advancement in the Trust’s surgical capabilities.
(Theatre team at Sunderland Royal Hospital following the Trust’s first endoscopic spinal surgery)
Endoscopic spinal surgery is a state-of-the-art, minimally invasive technique that allows surgeons to treat spinal conditions using a tiny camera inserted through incisions as small as 7 to 10 millimetres.
This approach significantly reduces trauma to surrounding muscles and tissues, leading to less pain, lower blood loss and quicker recovery times.
The procedure was led by Mr Balaji Purushothaman, Consultant Orthopaedic Spinal Surgeon, alongside his colleague Mr Sarang Sapare, who have both been instrumental in bringing the new spinal endoscopy service to patients in South Tyneside and Sunderland.
Mr Purushothaman said:
“I’m incredibly proud of the team for making this milestone possible. Their dedication and teamwork have been vital in launching our new spinal endoscopy service.
“This development represents a meaningful step forward in how we care for patients undergoing spinal surgery.”
While this technique is already being used at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and a few other centres across the UK, its introduction at Sunderland means more patients in the region can now benefit from this innovative approach closer to home.
Mr Purushothaman added that the service will enable the Trust to treat a wide range of spinal conditions using less invasive methods, helping patients return to normal life faster and with fewer complications.
Sheena Fish, Lead Divisional Director at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“This is a fantastic achievement for our surgical teams and a great example of how we continue to innovate and improve the care we offer.
“It is another step forward in ensuring our patients have access to the very best treatment options, right here in our region.”
The first patient to benefit from the new technique was Russell Stamp, 44, a project manager from Sunderland. Before surgery, Russell’s life was severely impacted by his condition as he explained:
“I was housebound, stuck working from home on the sofa, and unable to walk more than a few steps without suffering severe pain. I was taking an immense amount of painkillers just to get through the day and get some sleep.”
(Russell Stamp was the first patient to undergo endoscopic spinal surgery at Sunderland Royal Hospital)
Russell admitted he was nervous about being the first patient to undergo the pioneering new procedure but after speaking to Dr Purushothaman, he felt confident stating:
“I knew I was in good hands.”
Russell added:
“I’m now back at work and in the office. I can get out and about to see family and friends, which is a great relief. I still haven’t tried anything excessive like sport or running yet, but I hope to in the coming months.”
The Trust plans to expand the service to treat a wider range of spinal conditions, helping more patients return to normal life faster and with fewer complications.
South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust continues to invest in cutting-edge technologies and techniques to improve patient care and recovery across its hospitals.
