Neurosurgery involves diagnosing and treating medical conditions affecting the nervous system. the system includes nerves, the brain, and the spinal cord. The expert spearheading the procedure is a neurosurgeon. While they primarily specialize in surgical treatments, nonsurgical treatments also apply. If you have scheduled an appointment with a complex spine & complex brain neurosurgeon Marina Del Rey specialist, there are various things you need to know about neurosurgery.
Who is a neurosurgeon?
A neurosurgeon is a medical practitioner who conducts surgical and nonsurgical treatments on your nervous system. The difference between neurosurgeons and neurologists is that the latter only diagnoses treats, and manages conditions related to your nervous system, not perform the surgery. Before deciding your surgery eligibility, they first try out noninvasive treatments like physiotherapy, drugs, or steroid injections.
The nervous system comprises the skull, spinal disks, spinal vertebrae, soft tissues, protective membranes, and blood vessels. Typically, neurosurgeons like Ali H. Mesiwala, MD, FAANS, work with anesthesiologists, nurses, and other healthcare providers to ensure your nervous system is restored.
Neurosurgeons address various spinal system conditions, including the following:
- Hydrocephalus
- Sciatica
- Epilepsy (seizure disorders)
- Pinched nerves
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated disks
- Parkinson’s disease
- Essential tremor
- Chronic back and neck pain
- Congenital brain conditions like arachnoid cysts and Chiari malformations
- Spinal fractures
- Intracranial aneurysms
When to see a neurosurgeon
Seeing a neurosurgeon is a process involving a referral from your general physician. For example, if you have been battling sciatica and noninvasive treatments have failed, your doctor might refer you to a neurosurgeon for a specialist or in-depth diagnosis, examination, and treatment.
Typically, neurosurgeons are extensively versed in how your peripheral nervous system, brain, spine, and central nervous system work. Also, they know conditions that can affect these systems. Remember, the referral to a neurosurgeon doesn’t mean you qualify for surgery. Instead, neurosurgeons will extensively analyze your symptoms, conduct in-depth imaging, and establish your medical history. The results determine if you’re eligible for invasive or noninvasive treatment.
What to expect during an appointment with a neurosurgeon
It is okay to be nervous about your first time or repeat appointment with a neurosurgeon because of the possibility of surgery. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Write about important issues you want to share with your specialist in a journal
- Give details about how you have been feeling
- Carry copies of your test results, including lab results and images from other healthcare providers
- Carry a list of your current medications and supplements
- If you have allergies, share it with your doctor
- Ask a loved one to accompany you to the clinic. They can help you review what the doctor said during the interview
- Ask your doctor if you need another appointment to discuss other concerns
Schedule an appointment with a nervous system specialist for further discussion concerning your health
Now that you or your loved one’s general physician has referred you to a neurosurgeon, it is essential to ensure you prepare for the appointment using the tips mentioned above. Remember, not all referrals indicate that you will have surgery. Remain positive regardless of the results because a neurosurgeon is your best bet for feeling better. Book an appointment online with your neurosurgeon today.
