Doctors who specialize in neurosurgery diagnose and surgically treat conditions related to the central and peripheral nervous system. This most commonly includes treating concerns related to the brain and spine. This review discusses common neurosurgery procedures and when each type may be recommended by a neurosurgeon.
There is a range of procedures a neurosurgeon may recommend. However, some of the more common ones include anterior cervical discectomy, epilepsy neurosurgery, Chiari decompression, craniotomy, lumbar puncture, and laminectomy. The following is a closer look at the purpose and process for each procedure.
Anterior cervical discectomy is a common neurosurgery procedure that most notably treats herniated discs in the neck. The goal of the procedure is to remove the herniated disc to provide pain relief. This procedure is often recommended by neurosurgeons when pain cannot be managed through non-surgical treatments.
Epilepsy neurosurgery is for individuals with epilepsy. Specifically, this procedure is for those who have severe epileptic seizures and have not found relief through non-surgical treatments. Most often, neurologists recommend medications to deal with epilepsy and related seizures. If this does not work, however, epilepsy neurosurgery may be needed, which involves removing or modifying the part of the brain that is producing severe and potentially fatal seizures.
Chiari decompression is used to treat Arnold-Chiari malformation. This condition produces an inability to properly balance. Chiari decompression involves removing a bone in the back of the skull to widen the foramen magnum. This, in many cases, helps improve balance and coordination.
A craniotomy is a common neurosurgery procedure that involves removing a part of the skull bone to allow for direct access to the brain. This is used to treat a variety of neurological concerns, including brain strokes. It is a potentially life-saving procedure in many cases. The removed portion of the skull is eventually replaced to minimize the visible long-term impact of the procedure.
A lumbar puncture, which is also called a spinal tap, is one of the simpler (yet still relatively complex) neurosurgery procedures. It is a diagnostic procedure that is performed to determine if the patient has signs of any conditions related to the central nervous system. It is overall a safe surgery when performed by an experienced neurologist, and the risks are minimal.
Neurosurgeons can perform a range of other procedures, including but not limited to a ventriculostomy, microdiscectomy, spinal fusion, laminectomy, and ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The specific procedures vary for each neurosurgeon, so it is important to ensure the one you choose offers the specific surgery that you need.
If you have been referred to a neurosurgeon or have symptoms that indicate a potential need for neurosurgery, then get in touch with our team today. On your initial call, we can answer your questions and schedule a time for you to come and visit with our neurosurgeon for diagnostics and to discuss treatment options.
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