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Mr David Bell

MBChB, FRCS SN

Neurosurgeon

Live bookings available

29 years of experience

London, SE1 9BS

(+3 more)

27 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Mr Timothy Jones, Mr Declan Cahill

4.92

/5

(78 reviews)

Live bookings available

29 years of experience

London, SE1 9BS

(+3 more)

27 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Mr Timothy Jones, Mr Declan Cahill

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
Skill Endorsements
Lower Back Pain
23
Back Pain
22
Spinal Decompression
18

Contact

Book online


Expert in:

About Mr David Bell

Mr. David Bell is a highly skilled Consultant Neurosurgeon specializing in neurospinal surgery, particularly complex spine surgery. He practices at London Bridge Hospital, which is part of HCA Healthcare UK. Additionally, he divides his time between Kings College Hospital and his private practice.

With a focus on complex spine disorders such as pain, trauma, and disease, Mr. Bell provides comprehensive clinical care to patients. It is worth noting that scoliosis is an exception to his clinical work. He is dedicated to exploring non-surgical treatment options for spine-related conditions before considering invasive procedures. However, when surgery becomes necessary, he is trained in minimally invasive techniques.

Mr. Bell began his medical journey by obtaining his medical degree in 1996 from Edinburgh. He then pursued Basic Surgical Training in Edinburgh before transferring to London for specialized training in Complex Spinal Neurosurgery. In 2008, he became a Complex Spinal Neurosurgeon at Kings College Hospital, London. During his time there, he served as the regional clinical lead for spinal cancer and trauma until 2020, significantly contributing to the establishment of exceptional treatment standards.

From 2015 to 2021, Mr. Bell held the role of Regional Network Lead for South East London and Kent. He also served as an executive member of the British Association of Spinal Surgeons. Additionally, he took on the responsibility of National Lead for the British Spinal Registry (BSR), a tool used to ensure the quality of surgical care throughout the United Kingdom.

Mr. Bell is actively engaged in the medical community and regularly attends and lectures at conferences both in the United Kingdom and abroad. He has a medicolegal practice where he acts as an expert witness, particularly with an interest in Cauda Equina Syndrome. His extensive research on Cauda Equina Syndrome and Thoracic Disc herniations has resulted in the publication of over 20 peer-reviewed scientific papers, demonstrating his commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.


Subspecialties

  • Spinal Surgery

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
(133)
Skill Endorsements
(4)

Click the bar to read reviews or skill endorsements

Lower Back Pain
23
Back Pain
22
Spinal Decompression
18
Spinal Stenosis
11
Sciatica
9
Laminectomy
8
1
Cervical (Neck) Surgery
8
Degenerative Disc Disease
7
Spinal Surgery
7
Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery
6
Lower Back Surgery
4
Discectomy
4
Sciatica Surgery
3
Spondylolisthesis & Spondylosis
2
Video Consultation
1
Neck Pain
1
Vertebral Compression Fracture
1
Upper Back Pain
1
Kyphoplasty
Spinal Fusion
Complex Revision Spinal Surgery
Spine Fractures and Trauma
Complex Spinal Disorders
Spine Fracture Surgery
Intracept Procedure (Basivertebral Nerve Ablation)

Registered with

General Medical Council

No. 4338473


Education

University of Edinburgh

Medicine

Graduated 1996


Qualifications

Primary Medical Qualification

MB ChB 1996 University of Edinburgh


Specialist Register Entry Date

Neurosurgery From 31 Oct 2008


Professional Memberships

Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh

Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeon Surgical Neurology

Registered with the General Medical Council

Member of the Medical Protection Society

Executive board member of the British Association of Spinal Surgeons (BASS)

National Lead Elect for British Spine Registry


Languages spoken

  • English

Insurers

  • Bupa Fee Assured
  • The PHC
  • General and Medical
  • Simply Health (Dental)
  • Saga Health Insurance
  • The Exeter
  • Bupa
  • Cigna
  • Aetna
  • Benenden Health
  • Freedom Health Insurance
  • Allianz Worldwide Care
  • WPA
  • Healix Health Services
  • AXA Health
  • Vitality
  • Aviva Health

Fees

  • New appointment

    £350
  • Follow-up appointment

    £275
*May vary on location

Locations

HCA UK at The Shard

St Thomas Street, London, United Kingdom, SE1 9BS

4.82(5,000 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
09:30 - 15:00
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Facilities

Paid Parking
View practice profile

Opening hours

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
09:30 - 15:00
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Facilities

Paid Parking
View practice profile

HCA Healthcare UK London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street, London, United Kingdom, SE1 2PR

4.83(5,334 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
08:00 - 12:00
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Facilities

Wheelchair Accessible
View practice profile

HCA UK Canary Wharf

40 Bank Street, London, United Kingdom, E14 5NR

4.97(107 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday
09:00 - 12:00
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

King's College Hospital

Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom, SE5 9RS

0.00(0 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday - Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
Skill Endorsements
Lower Back Pain
23
Back Pain
22
Spinal Decompression
18

Contact

Book online

Reviews

AI Review Summary

This summary was created by AI based on recent reviews

Mr David Bell is professional, clear, and gives practical advice. Patients have successful spinal decompression, micro discectomy, and spinal fusion procedures. These surgeries lead to rapid recovery and improved quality of life through his efficient approach. Feedback highlights his effectiveness in treating back pain and successful spinal decompression.

5
verified patient
10 Jul 2026

I felt well supported at every stage; Dr Bell has such a comforting manner. During my operation he combined maximum surgical dexterity with the Science of neuromonitoring nerve signals live, with optimal results.

5
verified patient
08 Jul 2026

Overall my experience was ten out ten. Mr Bell was very friendly, polite & professional.. He really put my mind at rest.

5
verified patient
02 Jul 2026

Proficient and principled, Mr Bell led the super efficient process to regain my mobility. Highly recommend him.

5
verified patient
18 Jun 2026

David has a really engaging, focused consultation manner and kept my family well informed about my progress.

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
10 Jun 2026

Truly dedicated and empathic consultant. I count myself lucky to be his patient

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
05 Jun 2026

My decompression surgery was successfully completed in an hour by Mr Bell, I was discharged from HCA London Bridge Hosp. within 48 h and fully mobile. It also became apparent to me that, in a different place, I may have undergone more major, longer surgery for the same problem, involving several surgeons and cutting through the lungs/ribs to approach the spine from the front, with slower recovery. But thanks to Mr Bell’s understated brilliance, I’ve had just a neat little scar on my back and accelerated recovery.

5
verified patient
01 Jun 2026

Very helpful and understating of my situation

5
verified patient
11 May 2026

Over the years I’ve had wear and tear at several levels in my spine, past operation in Cambridge etc. Despite my case being tricky, Mr Bell fixed the blockage in my back and gave excellent practical advice on how to pace my daily activities.

5
verified patient
06 May 2026

I wasn't ‘ blinded with Science’ but helped to feel reassured over how I should feel at this stage in my recovery giving me confidence about how I should feel at this point in my recovery together with the knowledge I would see Mr Bell in 2months time,so I thought all in all pleased with today’s outcome.

5
verified patient
05 May 2026

At a check-up after my flawless surgery, I was welcomed with sincere care and amiable consultation style. Received the clinic letter on the same day straight after my appointment, for the first time ever. Unparalleled efficiency and authentic kindness.

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Skill Endorsements

Undoubtedly a fine spinal surgeon. Great opinion and a gifted technician. I would highly recommend Mr Bell.

10 Jul 2026
Endorsed for
Video Consultation
Neck Pain

Mr Timothy Jones

Mr Timothy Jones

Neurosurgeon
Is a colleague

My go to colleague for my friends. When my time comes, me too.

21 May 2025
Endorsed for
Laminectomy
Vertebral Compression Fracture

Mr Declan Cahill

Mr Declan Cahill

Urologist
Is a colleague

FAQ

What are Mr David Bell's reviews like?

Mr David Bell's overall patient rating is 4.92 out of 5 stars on Doctify. This is based on 78 reviews.

What languages does Mr David Bell speak?

Mr David Bell speaks English

Where is Mr David Bell located?

Mr David Bell primarily practices at HCA UK at The Shard, located at St Thomas Street, London, United Kingdom, SE1 9BS
See more locations

What are Mr David Bell working hours?

Mr David Bell is working Monday (09:00 - 12:00), Wednesday (09:30 - 15:00), Thursday (08:00 - 12:00)

Find where Mr David Bell operates today

Does Mr David Bell accept new patients?

Mr David Bell generally accepts new patients.

Get in touch with this specialist to enquire as a new patient