What is a Neurosurgeon?
A neurosurgeon is a highly skilled doctor who treats neurological conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neurosurgeons perform surgery on your nervous system, but they can also deliver nonsurgical treatments. Before suggesting surgery, they often explore all nonoperative treatment options, including prescription drugs, steroid injections, and physical therapy.
For instance, if you suffer from persistent back pain, your neurosurgeon may first prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and/or physical therapy. If these remedies are ineffective for your discomfort, your neurosurgeon might, if it is an option, recommend surgery.
Most of the time, if you have a neurological disease that needs or would benefit from a comprehensive assessment, your primary healthcare practitioner or your neurologist will recommend that you see a neurosurgeon.
But, it's not always a sign that surgery is imminent just because your doctor advises you to consult a neurosurgeon.
In order to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms, you will instead have a thorough neurological examination, a review of your symptoms and medical history, and in-depth diagnostic imaging. From there, your neurosurgeon will decide and discuss the best treatment choices for you, whether those are nonsurgical treatments, surgical treatments, or a mix of both. In some circumstances, other specialized physicians will also be involved.
They are professionals in their industry and are abreast of medications, treatments, and surgeries that can be beneficial to you. Together, you and your neurosurgeon will decide on the course of treatment that is most effective for you.
Cases
Specialties
Cerebrovascular and Skull Base Surgery
Many common neurological conditions, such as aneurysms and strokes, are caused by problems within the brain's circulatory system. Cerebrovascular surgery is the sub-specialty that focuses on preventing and correcting these conditions.
Neuro-Trauma and Neurological Critical Care
The skull and spine provide protection for the nerves of the brain and spinal cord. However, accidents and acts of violence can still cause traumatic injuries that threaten the patient's ability to survive and function. Neuro-trauma surgeons work with these patients, attempting to minimize damage to the nervous system and create the greatest possible likelihood of returning to normal life.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
While most neurosurgical subspecialties relate to specific procedures or medical conditions, pediatric neurosurgery is centered around the needs of children.
Neuro-oncology and Interventional Neuroradiology
Oncology is the study and treatment of cancers. Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery reports that brain tumors are some of the deadliest and most difficult to deal with, and they're the province of neuro-oncologists. Neuro-oncologists devise methods of removing brain tumors while minimizing the damage to the surrounding brain tissues. Of all the neurosurgical group types, this specialty makes the heaviest use of diagnostic radiological imaging, especially computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scanning.
Centers & Institutes
Healthcare Delivery by Neurosurgeons in the US
A common misconception about neurosurgeons is that they work exclusively in operating rooms. Actually, they have a ton of other duties. It can be challenging to anticipate all that will be covered during a consultation with a neurosurgeon.
As some of the most skilled and knowledgeable medical specialists, neurosurgeons spend a lot of time discussing unique cases with other physicians. They also have a list of their own cases, all of which present different difficulties. Although many of these patients will probably require surgery, not all of them will.
They collaborate with fellow surgeons, anesthesiologists, resident doctors, theater nurses, and medical students in the operating room. Outside of the operating room, they collaborate closely with radiologists who employ a variety of diagnostic procedures such as brain angiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging examinations. Additionally, they collaborate with oncologists, ophthalmologists, pediatricians, neurologists, and other surgeons and medical professionals.
Are you looking for a Neurosurgeon who will care for you? Our medical professionals at KellySearch create personalized strategies for each patient and/or their family. We have over 700k doctor listings on the website because our doctors want to give each client their undivided attention. They are also trustworthy and compassionate. Additionally, they are always available for conversation with anyone!
Sources:
The material presented above is only meant to be informative and is not intended to take the place of advice from your doctor or another health care practitioner. We advise you to talk to your provider about any questions or issues you may have.
