Neurosurgery
What is Neurosurgery ?
Neurosurgery is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the surgical treatment of disorders and conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and associated structures. Neurosurgeon Dr. Nand ji are highly trained medical professionals who perform delicate and intricate procedures to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of neurological conditions.
Types of Neurosurgery
The types of neurosurgery can be broadly classified as follows:
Neuro-oncology: This is a speciality that is focussed on tumours of the brain and the spinal cord
Functional Neurosurgery: Surgery to treat problems such as movement disorders, cerebral palsy and epilepsy come under this speciality.
Neurovascular Surgery: This speciality as the name indicates is focussed on the blood vessels that supply the nervous system and their related problems such as narrowing, aneurysms, etc.
Diagnosis
Neurological Examination: This is a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s nervous system function, including motor skills, sensory perception, reflexes, coordination, and cognitive abilities. It helps the neurosurgeon determine the location and extent of any neurological abnormalities.
Imaging Studies:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This non-invasive technique uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of the brain and spinal cord. It helps in identifying tumors, blood vessel abnormalities, and other structural problems.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans use X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the brain. They are useful for detecting fractures, bleeding, and certain types of tumors.
- Angiography: This imaging procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into the blood vessels to visualize the blood flow in the brain and detect abnormalities such as aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations.
Electroencephalogram (EEG): This test measures the electrical activity of the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp. It is useful in diagnosing seizure disorders and monitoring brain function during surgery.
Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): These tests evaluate the function of muscles and nerves. EMG measures the electrical activity of muscles, while NCS assesses the speed and strength of nerve impulses. They are helpful in diagnosing conditions like peripheral neuropathy and nerve compression.
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): This procedure involves inserting a needle into the lower back to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF analysis can help diagnose infections, bleeding, or certain neurological disorders.
Biopsy: In some cases, a neurosurgeon may perform a biopsy to obtain a tissue sample from a suspicious brain or spinal cord lesion. The sample is then examined under a microscope to determine the nature of the abnormality.
Treatment & Preventions
Most neurological problems are not preventable. The basic guidelines to keeping oneself in good health apply to the health of the nervous system as well. Managing all chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure under medical supervision is important to prevent neurological problems.
Neurosurgery may be a treatment for some neurological conditions such as:
- Cerebrovascular problems such as aneurysms and blood clots
- Stroke
- Tumours
- Injuries
- Nerve damage
- Epilepsy
- Parkinson’s disease
Other general classification of neurosurgeries is:
- Base Of Skull Surgery: Specialised surgery performed at the base of the skull region.
- Spinal Surgery: Surgery of the spine in order to treat injuries or other neurological issues.
- Peripheral Nerve Surgery: surgery to treat neurological disorders that are present in the nerves outside of the brain and spine.