Neurosurgery is a medical specialization that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders, injuries, and conditions associated with the central and peripheral nervous system. There are a plethora of conditions and issues treated through neurosurgery. Examples include: trauma, congenital anomalies, infections, stroke, degenerative diseases of the spine, and more.
The type of physician who performs neurosurgery is a neurosurgeon. Neurosurgeons have several years of specialized education and training which makes them experts in performing surgical procedures on the brain and spinal cord.
Types of Brain Surgery
One of the tasks and duties of a neurosurgeon is to perform brain surgery. Brain surgery is done to correct any abnormalities or injuries in the brain that may be causing a host of health issues. Here are some of the cranial issues corrected by neurosurgery:
- Brain tumors and cancers – Neurosurgery is used to remove brain tumors as a part of cancer treatment.
- Aneurysms – Aneurysms are treated by closing off blood flow that feeds the aneurysm. This is done by inserting a clip or coil to stop blood flow.
- Arteriovenous malformation – This refers to a tangle of abnormal blood vessels that connect to the arteries and veins in the brain. This condition can disrupt the flow of oxygen-rich blood between the brain, heart, and lungs.
- Cavernous malformation – This condition refers to an abnormality of blood vessels that can threaten the brain or spinal cord. This is a rare condition that often needs surgical treatment for correction.
- Hemangioblastoma – This condition refers to a benign tumor that occurs in the brain or spinal cord. While it is not cancerous, the growth can interfere with brain function because of it pressing against various parts of the brain. Brain surgery is performed to remove these growths to eliminate impact on brain function.
- Traumatic brain injury – Vehicular and sports accidents can often cause injuries in the brain. For such situations, brain surgery is often performed to correct the damage and restore brain function.
- Concussion injuries – Concussions happen when the brain moves suddenly and severely in the skull, causing swelling in the head. If not treated quickly, concussions can cause severe damage and be life-threatening. Neurosurgery is often performed to control bleeding, swelling, or other problems in the brain caused by concussions.
- Deep brain stimulation – This procedure involves placing electrodes in the brain to treat symptoms often associated with Parkinson’s disease. The electrodes are placed through small holes made in the skull.
- Cranial circulatory disorders – There are a variety of circulatory disorders that can affect the brain. Neurosurgery can be used to fix some of these conditions. Examples include removing affected arteries (endarterectomy), compressing and reducing blockages (angioplasty), and placing new blood vessels (bypass grafting).
Neurosurgery in Lone Tree, Colorado Springs, and Aurora, Colorado
It can be daunting and scary to deal with a brain injury or condition. The experts at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery have the expertise and experience necessary to treat your problem.
If you are in need of expert medical advice or a diagnosis and treatment, come see us today.
To make an appointment, give us a call at (303) 790-1800 today. You can also request an appointment online.
