Neurosurgery

Neurosurgery is an innovative field that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating patients with nervous system disorders. The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and central and peripheral nervous systems.

Our team of neurosurgeons treats a full range of neurological disorders of the brain and spine, including:

 

Types of Neurosurgery

Our neurosurgeons perform common types of neurosurgery, including conventional and minimally invasive methods. Neurosurgery is sometimes necessary, so knowing the common types of neurosurgical methods is important. Our neurosurgeons will explore the best options for you to consider when dealing with a diagnosis and treatment decision. Below is a brief list of minimally invasive and conventional procedures performed at Summa Health.

Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery

Sometimes, a neurological disorder is considered inoperable through conventional neurosurgery. In many cases, brain tumors, spinal disorders or blood clots in the brain can be treated with procedures that use newer, more high-tech equipment, resulting in faster recovery times and less scarring. These minimally invasive neurosurgery options include:

MRI-guided surgeries
MRI imaging allows surgeons to reach and treat the problem area more precisely, reducing damage to healthy brain tissue.

Neuroendoscopy
Using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera on the end, neurosurgeons can access the brain through the mouth, the nose or a small entry into the skull, allowing them to remove a tumor or perform another necessary.

Conventional Neurosurgery

If a minimally invasive procedure is not an option, your neurosurgeon may recommend a more conventional surgery option. These options may include performing a craniotomy or placing a shunt in the brain or spine.

Craniotomy
A craniotomy requires a neurosurgeon to surgically remove a part of the skull to gain access to the brain. Once the procedure is complete, the removed part of the skull is returned to its original position to protect the brain. This procedure is performed to treat brain tumors, skull fractures, aneurysms and infections and is used to address various levels of swelling within the brain.

Shunt
A shunt is a hollow tube that is surgically implanted to allow the excessive buildup of fluid to be released. A few reasons to have this type of neurosurgery are to treat hydrocephalus, there is too much fluid is being produced, the blood vessels are not working properly, or there is a blockage in the way that prevents the fluids from flowing properly. A shunt can be placed     

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