Tremors, Tunes, and Triumph: Surviving the Operating Table It's officially been 38 hours since I checked into El Camino Hospital in Mountain View for my C6-C7 disc replacement surgery, and honestly, the whole experience has been surprisingly great. A massive part of that is my surgeon, Dr. Yazeed Gussous. From walking me back from the lobby himself to review my 12-week detailed health log in his AI tool, he has been fantastic. He even coordinates a group text with patients and families for round-the-clock reassurance. Before my surgery, he stopped to learn every technician's name in the OR prep, bonded with us over having Star Wars-named dogs (Chewie, Rey, and Finn), and brought an incredible, personal touch to the process. Going into the operating room blew me away. With nearly 20 people inside, Dr. Gussous introduced every single person by name and role--including Valentino, born on Valentine's Day. Upbeat party music pumped through the speakers as I rolled in, making me feel ready to win a marathon. As I prayed on the table, he grabbed my hand to reassure me, and right after I woke up, he personally fed me applesauce and shared that he had prayed for me, too. The care didn't stop there. My recovery nurse Julie made vulnerable moments feel totally fine, and night nurse Rachel and CNA Samy walked the floor with me at 4:00 AM with radiant, joyful energy. From RNs Liz, Thanh, and Sajita to transporters like Ronald, OT Maureen, and physical therapists sharing stories of motherhood, every single person was a rockstar. Recovery is going smoothly--zero neck or arm pain, just a annoying IVs, a headache, and a bulky neck brace. This journey gave me a deep appreciation for how hard hospital staff work, and how vital it is for patients to partner with them by following instructions and listening to their care teams. I hope you never need spine care, but if you do, Dr. Gussous and his phenomenal team at El Camino Hospital are second to none! read more

Yazeed Gussous, MD - My home for the night - Spine Surgeons Near Me - Mountain View, California

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I can't say enough good things about Dr. Gussous. I was so nervous and unsure about doing a fusion surgery (L4-L5) on my back even though I could barely walk more than a few feet without going numb in the legs and feet. I couldn't stand long enough to cook a meal. Dr. Gussous looked at my MRI and CT scans and projected great confidence that a surgery would help me and I just decided to put myself in his hands. Best decision ever. Three months out and I can walk indefinitely with no discomfort. Just after the surgery, when I was recovering in the hospital, I was having some issues with my blood pressure dropping precipitously whenever I stood up. Dr. Gussous came personally to my bedside and spent about 40 minutes observing what was happening, having me stand and sit, having me walk a short distance in the hallway until he was satisfied that he understood what was going on. An amazing level of personal attention. Even the nurses were surprised. He also arranged for a week in acute rehab where I got a ton of support and instruction to see me through the rest of the recovery at home. I have done a lot of research about this procedure, including lurking around on Facebook groups where people share information about their experiences with this type of surgery. So I know that not everyone has as wonderful an outcome as I have had. I can only feel thankful to Dr. Gussous for performing an excellent surgery on me. read more

Yazeed Gussous, MD - The day after surgery. - Spine Surgeons Near Me - Mountain View, California

Dr. Gussous and His team were incredible. he explained the procedure thoroughly and answered any questions I asked. They put me at ease before, during and after the surgery. He stopped by the hospital multiple times to check in on me. During my recovery he reached out multiple times to check in on me. The follow up visits at his office were pleasant. I highly recommend Dr. Gussous. read more

Dr. Gussous is an excellent surgeon who's most important characteristic is that he is a perfectionist. Once you become his patient, you are immediately under cover of the most reliable and supportive team with great communication and follow up treatments. I saw him on Thursday in great pain from a herniated disk. Following Monday I went through the surgery which elevated my pain practically instantly. In today's scheduling timelines to show such an efficiency and speed of helping a suffering patient is practically a miracle. If you come across Dr. Gussous office, don't waste you time to search for another doctor, let him help you and go on with your life. read more

Yup. I have a nasty spine that doesn't want to keep up with me. So I've had several spinal surgeries and procedures. I kinda know the ropes. Dr. G is like getting manna from heaven. He always makes me immediately comfortable. He always explains everything from what he sees (MRIs,CT scans, X-rays, bone density etc) to what he knows and how he plans on repairing the damage AND my expected recovery time. I've never felt rushed. I've always been made to feel like I was his special patient. Dr. G is everything anyone could possibly want in the person planning on cutting open your back. I recommend him to anyone needing quality surgical care. read more

Dr. Gussous saved my family and me from a terrible chronic pain situation. He is the best surgeon I could have asked for. He has excellent bedside manners and is everything you want your doctor to be. Scheduling appointment is very easy. Depending on his schedule, there might be some long wait times to see him during the appointment, but his quality of care is just so good, I don't care about the occasional long wait time at all. All 5 star reviews here are spot on! read more

Dr. Gussous met with my wife and myself even after he had had a long day in surgery. It was after hours and he went over my mri and discussed possible ways to treat you pain.If I not seen him , I might have gone into a situation where my back would not be stabilized. I can't thank him enough for his going above and beyond to meet with us .He is an extremely caring person, and one that will probably aid in my recovery!Thank you! read more

Dr Gussous completed all phases of my surgical procedure very thoroughly and professionally. I absolutely recommend his services for care. I am very happy with my entire process - preop, surgical procedure, and recovery. I feel very fortunate to have been referred to Dr Gussous and his team. read more

Dr. Gussous is amazing!! I've had chronic long term lower back/leg pain for years. Dr. G ordered all the necessary scans to find out what was going on and determined what the best course of action would be. He explained everything so that me and my family understood what was going on and what he was going to do to repair it. He provided his cell number to my family and I and told us to contact him with ANY questions/concerns we might have. I am now almost 3 months post op from a 360 fusion on my L5/S1 and feel GREAT! No more lower back/leg pain if I sit/stand too long. If I had to do it again I would go to Dr. G hands down every time. Highly recommend him. read more

I was having minor back pains which lead to worst pains. The feeling of having a slip disk l4 l5 is one of the most pains I've ever felt in life. After going through massive research , I decided to go with Dr. Gussous. From his team members to the staff. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for a great job done. About the experience: From The first encounter with Staff A+. Always keeping me updated, calling me , reminding me . Thank you for all your help. To all the nurses and other aid : thank you for being kind , curious , fun to talk with. To the nurse/ staffs that helped me with my insurance needs, thank you for all your hard work. Dr. Gussous, you gave me the ability to walk again, effortlessly. Words cannot describe how thankful I am . Being able to walk my dog again is amazing . I would recommend anyone without hesitation to see Dr. Gussous if you are having back pains read more

Dr Gussous performed a microdiscectomy on my L5-S1 and did an amazing job. Him and his staff were professional and thorough, and made himself available, providing his personal cell to my wife and I to check up on me or ask any questions. This was my second back surgery, and I would 100% recommend Dr Gussous. It was a very "pain free" process and as of now, the recovery has been fantastic (~9 wks out). Thanks again Yazeed and staff!!! read more

Dr. Yazeed Gussous = AMAZING From the moment I was referred to his office, the experience was nothing short of best in class care. While I want to assume my situation was unique, and he just went above and beyond for me, I don't actually believe that. I imagine most patients experience the same Doc G that I did. I have had multiple injuries to my back but none as detrimental as what had happened at the very end of April. Much to my surprise my initial injury came 8 months earlier when I fell 4' from my hammock. April 2019, I was pulling weeds, I felt a warm pull across my back but with very little pain in the moment. Knowing what I did, I instantly laid down with support under my back but the next morning I couldn't even put underwear on let alone walk. The next month was horrible since I had to function through pain. After an initial appointment with a brand new primary physician, she wasted no time knowing that she was not my best option. and made calls do the Dr Gussous so he already understood my case. I made my appointment, and his office staff was amazingly friendly and accommodating and much to my surprise, within a few hours of sending my MRIs over, I had phone calls from Dr. G....this was after 10pm at night because of the concern of my referring physician, Dr Leroux, (who was also amazing) They both had the level of competency and care that made me feel at complete ease and as though I was the most important patient ever. Over the next few weeks, we worked through options, doc g was being way more conservative than my instant gratification nature but understandably his job requires him to do what's right as well as asses a patient's obvious and not so obvious symptoms. Odd to have an avoid first surgeon but it gives him the ability to assess without bias as there is potential for catastrophic cascading failures. Options were exhausted but it was clear with intensifying bladder loss which I tried to hide (I literally peed when I sneezed and laughed and thought it was because of age) loss of feeling in my right leg with radiating burning pain, beginning stages of loss of sensation of my left and a nerve test indicative of damage to my S1 nerve and other stuff that I don't quite recall that time was starting to dwindle. I feel DocG had a perfect combination of conservative/proactive experience to utilize logical options but still have a vision to see my situation was quickly deteriorating and he didn't want to take more time and lose my best chances for a successful and complete recovery I found out later the difficulty that we had since the insurance company apparently rejected the case. DrG had to call the peer review board and explain the extent of my symptoms that may not have been clear in documentation because I downplayed them. He sent an email with pictures of my herniation along with reports which got it approved it after finishing a surgery at almost 5PM. in crazy fast fashion I got the call at 457 the day before right after he finished a surgery at 450 pm. So while Dr Gussous preferred that a conservative approach would work, at the end surgery was the best option before my issues got worse. 5am-1pm the next day was a blur, I woke up hoping my en hospital transportation specialist had a cheeseburger ready but to my dismay it was just a bed ride to my hospital room for an afternoon/night of recovery. Two hours later, Dr.G quite annoyingly woke me up to check on me and then informed me he would be back to take me on a walk. -really doc?!?! Come on! True to his word, later that day it was amazing that he did show up and made me do laps around the nurses station. We had a few great conversations, he admonished me several times to keep my recovery slow and in check but above all he spoke to me peer to peer, friend to friend. I promised I would take it easy; no lifting, no bending, no bending twisting and lifting, no Skydiving, no flying, no rafting, no paddleboarding, no fun, no yardwork, No driving? Huh?...much to doc's dismay I did challenge him on true hard fast restrictions vs loosely defined ones but at the end I knew best to listen and take it easy which was key to my recovery. He stressed to pay attention to what my body is screaming at me. 7 months later I can tell you without a doubt that we together found the perfect recovery path for me. So while my situation, injury, surgery and recovery are all tailored to just me, the one thing that I got to experience above everything else is the kind considerate heartfelt care that any other jacked up back patient has and will get to experience if you choose to put your trust and care in Dr. Gussos's skillful hands and engnmatic brain. I will be lucky if I get to cross paths just once more, let alone many times with Yazeed Gussous just ideally not via way of a scalpel, operating table and a surgery Spotify playlist. https://open.spotify.com/user/abower969/playlist/62rlMDurYwzjCWlbXRrDEO?si=trNlkoR1SxC5L0tUmSXYdQ read more

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You will not cross paths with another such surgeon. Selfless, genuine, trustworthy, knowledgeable, invested in each of his patients. This doctor really does go the extra mile to support his patients and their families. Trust me I am the daughter that needs to be 120% involved. Spine surgery is no short of terrifying but Dr Gussous rocked it! thank you from Anjlee and Hema. read more

Dr Yazeed Gussous is nothing less than brilliant. I would score him seven out of five if that was possible! I had suffered from back pain and sciatica in my left leg for many years. I have seen a range of physiotherapists, consultants and had various types of injection. I even tried acupuncture - all with no improvement. I spent a good deal of time researching which surgeon to see here in Silicon Valley. Dr Gussous was exceptional in that all his reviews gave him five stars and everybody was full of praise for him. At my first consultation he immediately connected with both my wife and me. He listened carefully to what we both had to say and then explained the options as he saw them. He was very careful to make sure that we both understood the implications of the different options that we might take. He also showed us examples of his previous work (with no identification obviously) which reassured us that he was very competent. I was inclined to go for major surgery to remove three discs and lock the vertebra together. He explained why he thought that a more conservative approach would be preferable for me. As a result, I signed up for a spinal decompression on my 3 lowest discs. I cannot tell you how pleased I am that I accepted his recommendations. In terms of the surgery itself, there is no doubt in my mind that Dr Gussous is a perfectionist. I was the last operation of the day for him, and he still spent considerable extra time to ensure that the best possible result would be achieved. I woke up with only minor discomfort and no pain. During my recuperation I never had any need to take any painkillers. At our post operative consultations, he was considerate and thoughtful, providing any new information that I needed. He also recommended me to excellent physical therapist. If you need surgery on your spine, go to this man. He is a superb surgeon based on my results, but he is also a lovely human being! read more

I spent two years in debilitating pain while researching non surgical solutions for my collapsed C4/5 - C5/6. I ultimately realized surgery was my only option and began a hunt for an experienced surgeon. I interviewed two before I visited Dr Gussous and both surgeons recommended a full fusion of my cervical spine (C2-7) which would have left me with reduced neck mobility and a very lengthy recovery. Both surgeons gave me 15 minutes of their time and both quickly concluded the same procedure. I decided to get one more opinion and was referred to Dr Gussous by my pain specialist. He claimed Dr Gussous will eventually be working on his cervical spine and he wouldn't trust anyone else. I now see why. Dr. Gussous was unlike any surgeon I have encountered. Actually, any health professional. He spent a full hour with me during my consultation (much to the dismay of his nurses) and presented alternative procedures to full fusion. None of his peers suggested alternatives to disc fusion but Dr. Gussous patiently helped me understand the benefits of disc replacement vs fusion. Today? I have full mobility, I recovered in less than 4 months and was playing golf, I am pain free, and a huge fan for life of Dr. Gussous. (btw, his follow up and bed side manner is unlike anything I have witnessed before). Thank you Dr. Gussous (unfortunately my golf game didn't improve - he can't help you there) read more

Dr Gussous met me several times before we finally decided to do an L4, L5 S1 fusion surgery. I had heard any surgeon who says go ahead with surgery first is not the one to go to. When I got my first MRI it was scary looking how badly deteriorated my lower back was. Dr G said let's try cortisone injections first to see if that helps. I did that twice and it was good for about a month then back to square one. I could walk about a block before I had to sit down for the leg pain. We met several times in the meantime to go over exactly what the procedure is and whether he would fuse L3, L4 and L5. In the end he did L4, L5 and I knew exactly what his plan was and how it was going to be done. The only feedback I can give anyone who is considering this surgery is that it is a big, complex invasive surgery. Mine was 6-1/2 hours and recovery was not trivial. It was painful and took about 6 weeks to feel OK and I really need 6 months to 1 year for complete fusion BUT this took away all my leg pain and it was successful. There's no getting around the pain but it's a big surgery and the short term pain for such a long term gain is totally worth it. I love Dr G. He and his team were so helpful and informative before the surgery and then after surgery he checked in many times to make sure I was recovering well. I would absolutely recommend Dr G to anyone considering spinal surgery - he is the best and is a great person too. read more

There are not adequate words to explain how exceptional Dr Gussous is! I was referred to Dr Gussous from my primary care physician for what had been over a year of cervical pain that was radiating. Dr Gussous was incredibly caring and thorough. He listened in detail to my issues, and then took the time to explain what he thought was causing my pain and discomfort. Even as a surgeon, he did not recommend surgery, and found that to be a last option, where as many surgeons are quick to cut! He referred me to a pain management specialist to try epidural injections first. One of the things that makes Dr G so exceptional is that even after he referred me to a pain management specialist he continued to personally follow up with me several times to make certain that I was getting relief from my pain. In a time when healthcare can be frustrating and at times make you feel like a number, Dr Gussous is the standout exception. He is knowledgeable, patient, kind, and thorough. Additionally, his staff is very friendly and most helpful. If you are looking for a surgeon who is open to exploring ALL options of care, and who truly looks to understand each patient personally, Dr Gussous is the surgeon for you. If the day comes when I do need surgery, I will without hesitation have Dr Gussous perform it. I know I couldn't be in better hands. read more

The most down to earth approachable and professional doctor I've ever met. I took my wife there and he was so nice and spends the time to really understand what's wrong. He's one of the best I've ever dealt with so far. My wife and son are patients of his. read more

Was fortunate to have been referred to Dr.Gussous by my Dr. where Steroid injections weren't helping the pain from my groin to my shin. After an MRI it was apparent I needed surgery to remove a piece of bone that had somehow broken off and was resting on my nerves at the L3/L4 level. So my next move was to make an appointment with Dr. Gussous. He was very confident he would be able to alleviate my problem and he would look after me. I was very nervous about the procedure for nearly three weeks, so at my pre-op my husband, daughter(who is a nurse and spent 20yrs at Stanford in ICU)Dr. Gussous explained, showed us a video as to how he was going to proceed and that this was his expertise so it gave us alot of confidence. Dr. Gussous is such a burly big man but a gentle giant. The day of surgery he was there talking to the nurse, anesthesiologist, my family keeping things light and afterwards there he was when I awoke telling me how well things went. He is so conscientious and really cares for you, you are not just a number on an operation sheet that day or since. I am so grateful for his gifted craft people who live in this area are given the best Doctor around someone who listens to you, compassionate, respects your wishes and honestly takes your health personally. He has texted my daughter and myself over the past two weeks and has been always available for questions and concerns even when away at thanksgiving. It is hard to believe that 2 weeks ago I was in alot of pain but today becoming stronger each day and getting back to normal day by day but kudos to Dr. Gussous the best around and El Camino Hospital is fortunate that he is working to heal those suffering in his field. I have the utmost respect and cannot speak highly enough of Dr. Gussous like other patients on this website. He is interested in you following through and unwavering time to give you his best before, during and after the operation it leaves you thankful that you have been one of his patients and would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone and my daughter joins me in this. Words do not say it all. Sharon- Cupertino read more

I was given an urgent referral to see Dr. Gussous after developing foot drop from a herniated lumbar disc which had already left me unable to stand for several weeks. As miserable as I was in that condition, I was scared to have surgery and worried about the long-term effects and complications. After discussing my options with Dr. Gussous I decided to have the operation (microdiscectomy). Within a few hours of having the surgery I felt better than I had in the month prior, and eight weeks out I'm now back to an active lifestyle with no pain. Dr. Gussous was exceptionally patient and responsive with my concerns, both leading up to the surgery and in the early period of recovery. Even under ideal circumstances needing spine surgery feels like a terrifying and demoralizing setback, but the experience with Dr. Gussous as a surgeon was much better than I could have expected. read more

Dr. Gussous (Gus) is the best doctor I've ever seen - period. He was referred to me by a local back pain physician who thought it unlikely that I would benefit from more epidural shots. I met with Dr. Gussous, along with a neurosurgeon, before making my decision to go with Gus. And I'm so glad I made that selection for my decompression and 2 level fusion for chronic, worsening low back pain and leg weakness. From all the preoperative visits, through the surgery and my time in hospital, and up to now as I recover (I'm 5 week's post surgery), Gus has gone to extraordinary lengths to make sure I was informed, cared for, and had the best chance for a great outcome. I'm getting stronger every day, walking many miles, and feeling NONE of the pain and weakness I was experiencing. He's obviously a very skilled surgeon, and I'm grateful for that. But there are lots of good surgeons in our area. What truly sets Gus apart in my opinion, is that he is such a caring, sensitive, gracious, and thoughtful person. He thanks the cafeteria person who brings your food, he wants to know the name of everyone helping to care for his patients (and remembers them), he asks nurses to look in on another doc's patient who is crying in another room. Needless to say, this approach to sincere, humble engagement has quickly established him as a very well liked surgeon in our community. Dr. Gussous is simply the best doctor I've ever encountered. read more

My husband was suffering from pain and limited use of his right arm in December of 2019. Dr. Jeffrey Kliman referred us to Dr. Gussous as a spinal surgeon due to the complexity of the medical issue. Dr. Gussous was very caring and was extremely thorough in his evaluation of my husband's issue. The diagnosis was Status Post Cervical Spinal Arthrodesis. Usual surgery would go thru the front of the neck, however age being a factor, my husband would have to enter the hospital for a Posterior Cervical Decompression procedure. On July 1, 2020 he had the surgery at El Camino Hospital. It was a total success and he actually left the hospital earlier than planned. I attribute this to Dr. Gussous's excellence as a surgeon and the fact that we were in constant communication both pre and post surgery. I would like to thank his team and El Camino for their fine care. Dr Gussous has added longevity and quality of life to my husband and for that we will be forever grateful. Kathleen and Roger read more

This doctor was looking at his phone the entire time during my appointment; every five minutes he said sorry, I have to answer this message. After waiting months for this appointment, the least I expected was to have time to express my situation. His management office never answers the phone and if you leave a message, they never call you back. Terrible communication. I didn't feel like he was paying attention to my concerns. I don't trust this doctor. He wouldn't put my health in his hands. read more

I was referred by my pain care physician, he text him within 2 hours I had an appointment. After my first meeting with Dr Gussous I knew I was in the right place. The diagnoses, interest and compassion the doctor expressed in my well-being was most comforting to me and my husband. I was informed were my issues were coming from and was going to have cervical neck surgery. I drive from San Jose to Mt View because I trust Dr Gussous, he performed surgery this April 17 I am recovering and the Doctor still contacts me on my recovery on a daily base. He is companionate to his patience and shows concerns and assures your peace of mind doing the surgery. read more

Dr Gussous takes a very caring and compassionate interest in you as a patient. He takes the time to explain all of your options answer your questions and does not pressure you into any decisions. I would recommend him to anyone needing back surgery. read more

Dr. Gussous is an exceptional surgeon who corrected my spinal problem with a spinal decompression and a L4-5 fusion. He was thorough and compassionate at every step of my procedure carefully explaining his diagnosis and treatment plan. He involved me at every decision and took time to be sure I understood and was comfortable as we progressed. I have joint problems and this was my 18th surgery in the past 12 years. I got a 2nd and a 3rd opinion before proceeding with Dr. G and I am certain I made the very best choice. He is obviously well trained, extremely capable, and caring. He even used a less invasive technique than the others would have which has certainly aided in my healing. He was ALWAYS available via phone or text when I had questions or concerns, even at 3AM while hospitalized! I would highly recommend him as a strong ally and advocate for your health and well being. I feel fortunate to have him as a doctor who truly cares. I would not hesitate in choosing him again. His approach is unparalleled. read more

Upon my first visit with Dr. Gussous, I realized that he is competent, sincere, and he genuinely wants to do what is best for me. He handed me his personal cell phone number and encouraged me to contact him for any reasons. He recommended a more conservative approach first, and referred me to an injection doctor to see if it would help my back issue. When it became apparent that a surgery was the way to go, he expedited a slot for me in his busy schedule. My "L4-L5 Discectomy " was done like clock-work. The pain and numbness down my leg were gone right after the procedure, and I was able to walk with no pain. The next few days after the surgery, we constantly communicated with texts and photos to make sure there were no complications, and I was on my way to a speedy recovery. Before I met Dr. Gussous, I read his reviews. I was surprise to see that ALL his patients gave him 5 starts. Now I know why..! read more