Neurosurgery is the medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of patients with diseases or injuries of the spinal cord and spinal column, as well as the peripheral nerves in all body parts. Neurosurgeons treat both adult and pediatric patients. Depending upon the nature of the specific condition, a neurological surgeon may provide surgical or non-surgical treatment. Neurosurgeons also help other health professionals, such as ER doctors, regarding their cases. These professionals also evaluate and treat people with neurological diseases.
Advanced Pain Care is a leading neurosurgery clinic in Austin with neurosurgeons with years of training, research, and experience to provide the ideal treatment for spinal conditions.
Types of Neurosurgery
Various types of neurosurgical procedures are performed in the leading centers in Austin. The major ones are as follows:
- Craniotomy – In it, the surgeon removes a portion of the skull to access the brain. They then return the removed skull part to its original position to protect the brain. This procedure helps treat brain tumors, skull fractures, aneurysms, and problems that cause swelling in the brain.
- Ventricular shunt – If there is excessive pressure in the brain, the surgeon implants a shunt that releases the build-up of fluid that is causing the pressure.
- Minimally invasive spine surgery – This surgery aids in stabilizing the vertebral bones in case a bone spur, a herniated disc, a spinal cord tumor, or scoliosis has been diagnosed. The best surgeon in Austin is adept at minimally invasive surgical techniques that facilitate faster recovery.
- Vascular neurosurgery – It is done to rectify abnormalities of blood vessels in the brain. This type of procedure prevents the vessels from rupturing and causing further issues.
The Training of a Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeons help patients suffering from not only brain and spinal conditions. They also treat back and neck pain and complications ranging from trigeminal neuralgia to Parkinson’s disease.
The best neurosurgeon undertakes the following to treat patients effectively.
- They graduate from an accredited medical school.
- After graduating, the professional completes a one-year surgical internship to build their fundamental clinical skills.
- These medical professionals also complete seven years in the neurosurgical residency program accredited by the American Council on Graduate Medical Education.
When they are in residency training, neurosurgeons acquire training in various aspects of neurosurgery. These include the spinal cord, trauma, brain and spine tumors, pain management, and pediatric surgery.
Imaging Techniques Used by a Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeons use modern imaging techniques to obtain a closer look at the tissues within the body. The imaging techniques used in a neurosurgery clinic in Austin include the following:
- Computed Tomography (CT): CT scans provide a two-dimensional image of the tissues. A contrast dye is injected into the bloodstream of the patient for accurate images. A CT scan is suitable for those who cannot get an MRI done.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This technique uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to get images of the body’s internal structures. MRI can also give useful data about blood flow and mineral deposits inside a patient’s body. Neurosurgeons also use MRIs to analyze the water content of tissues.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET): Neurosurgeons use PET for highly detailed images. The images produced by PET are more precise than those provided by CT and MRI scans. These scans produce two and three-dimensional images of the organs of the patient. It uses radioactive isotopes (tracers) that are injected into the patient’s bloodstream. This is what helps in giving a detailed and clear image of the brain and the nervous system.
- Functional MRI (fMRI): This is used to examine the blood flow to areas of the brain. fMRI scans use these properties of the blood to discover the brain areas activated by stimulus, and for the length of time, it is stimulated. It is crucial for the neurosurgeon to find out and localize the brain regions that regulate different functions before surgery.
Summing Up
Neurosurgery is one of the most comprehensive neurosurgical practices globally. Neurosurgeons perform lifesaving and technically demanding procedures to ensure the best possible outcome. Remember, successful neurosurgical treatment always begins with an accurate diagnosis. So, if you or your loved one is experiencing any symptoms that may point to a brain or spinal condition, it is essential to consult with a medical professional. Contact Advanced Pain Care today.
