Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a scanning technology that your neurosurgeon may order to evaluate your brain or spinal cord. It uses a huge magnet along with radio waves to produce images of the area in question, and the images will show “slices” of the area so your doctor can look for tumors, lesions, and other irregularities. An MRI of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) can also detect health issues such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, dementia, aneurysms, and spinal ... [Read More]
Neurological Disorders
Unusual Headaches Should Never Be Ignored
Headaches are a common problem for many, and most people experience them at some point in their lives. But how do you know whether a headache is the result of tension, lack of sleep, dehydration, or something more serious? Not all headaches are harmless. For instance, a sudden, severe headache can indicate a brain aneurysm, which is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical treatment. A brain aneurysm is a protrusion, or bulge, in a blood vessel in the brain. It is caused by ... [Read More]
Common Reasons for Neurosurgery Treatment
Neurosurgery refers to the surgical treatment of an injury or disorder affecting the brain, spinal cord, or the peripheral or central nervous system. Neurosurgeons and neurologists will first ensure that all conservative (nonsurgical) measures are considered or attempted, such as chiropractic treatment, lifestyle changes, medication, and physical therapy. An overall neurosurgery treatment plan may involve a combination of surgical and nonsurgical methods. Let’s talk about why you may need ... [Read More]
Surgery for Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain can bring your life to a halt by preventing you from doing the things you love. Lower back pain is a common ailment that doesn’t always need surgical treatment. However, if you do not respond well to nonsurgical treatments, such as physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications, you should consider surgery. Depending on your needs, your doctor may recommend one of the following surgical procedures. Lumbar Laminectomy Laminectomy, also known as decompression surgery, is ... [Read More]
Benign vs. Cancerous Brain Tumor Procedures
Tumors are either benign or malignant, where benign ones are noncancerous and malignant ones are cancerous. (This is a relatively new distinction, whose purpose is for clarity – “benign cancer” was confusing to many patients.) A tumor can be highly complex, and never more so than when it involves the brain, which is the most complex organ in the body. Whether benign or cancerous, a brain tumor always requires immediate medical attention and treatment. This is because both malignant and benign ... [Read More]