Neurosurgeons are also known as brain surgeons. Brain surgeons specialise in treating conditions in relation to your nervous system, brain, and spine. Your central nervous system runs along your spine, up your neck, and into your brain. If your central nervous system has been affected by a specific disease or condition, brain surgeons can perform specialised surgical treatment and management.
Trained Specialists
Brain surgeons are doctors. They attend school for many years, and are required to have residency before they can gain licensure. Schooling can take 6 to 10 years to complete. In addition to school, they are required to complete years of residency (internship). All of this hands-on training is geared toward each doctor mastering their practice.
In general, neurosurgeons have a speciality. For example, some neurosurgeons may focus on paediatric care while others focus on spinal surgery or cancer. Neurosurgery is extremely beneficial, but has dire consequences if completed poorly. Luckily, with precision technology and years of training, neurosurgeons have worked endlessly to master their techniques and practice.
Your Nervous System
Your nervous system is composed of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). When you have suffered from severe spinal damage, your CNS and PNS may be greatly damaged. Luckily, your PNS will grow back. If your CNS is damaged, it may be permanent. Neurosurgeons work to reverse this permanent damage.
With advancements in technology and stem cell research, neurosurgeons can help alleviate and treat your damaged tissues. Nerve pain is often severe. You can feel it travel through your back causing different conditions such as epilepsy, sciatica, chronic pain, stroke, and lower back pain. A neurosurgeon will perform invasive surgery to help treat your condition. If you have spinal disc problems, they may be pinching a nerve and causing carpal tunnel symptoms.
Neurosurgeons Versus Neurologists
The biggest difference between a neurosurgeon and a neurologist is that a neurosurgeon performs surgery. A neurologist can diagnose and treat, but they do not use the same invasive surgery techniques as a neurosurgeon. Neurosurgeons will use a neurologists’ diagnosis to help you navigate the best course of treatment, therapy, and surgery. They will create an individualised plan to help prepare you for surgery and recovery. Neurosurgeons are extremely skilled in performing surgery, while neurologists mainly assess and diagnose patients.
Do You Need a Neurosurgeon?
After you have received your diagnosis, a neurologist will refer you to a neurosurgeon. There are often neurosurgeons listed in-network. Neurosurgeons work at both private and public hospitals. You should talk with the medical staff regarding payment. Out-of-network neurosurgeons (those not in your insurance’s network), will cost significantly more than an in-network neurosurgeon.
