If you have been referred to a neurosurgeon, you may feel scared, confused, or overwhelmed – all of which are normal feelings, as neurosurgeons are doctors that deal with the complex issues of the brain and spine.
Knowing what a neurosurgeon does during consultation can provide you with a sense of relief and confidence. Let’s discuss what you can expect when consulting a neurosurgeon and where you can find the best neurosurgeon in Aurora, CO.
What Is It Like to See a Neurosurgeon?
In your lifetime, you may have been to many doctors. Any doctor you go to, first, takes your and your family’s medical history to know about the state of your health in the past and diseases that run in your family. So does a neurosurgeon.
During a consultation with a neurosurgeon, you can:
Expect to Answer Some Questions
A neurosurgeon, like any other doctor, will first get to know you and your health history and ask about your symptoms so that they can make a firm diagnosis. For this, they will ask questions like:
- How long have you been experiencing the symptoms?
- How often do you experience the symptoms?
- How much have your symptoms affected your quality of life?
- Do you have a previous injury or illness (of the brain or spinal cord)?
- What medications are you taking currently?
- What are your lifestyle habits?
Expect a Physical Exam
Physical examination may or may not be a part of your initial consultation with a neurosurgeon. But if it is, your neurosurgeon will check for your strength, physical sensations, reflexes, speech, coordination, and cognitive ability during a physical exam.
There Will be Some Diagnostic Tests
Medical history and assessment of your symptoms are by no means enough to make a diagnosis. So, your neurosurgeon will order some diagnostic tests that can be done in the laboratory or diagnostic imaging center to reach the cause of your symptoms.
Most frequently ordered diagnostic tests are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray imaging, computerized tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET), nerve conduction velocity, nerve conduction studies, cerebral angiogram, and magnetoencephalography (MEG). A neurosurgeon also orders laboratory tests such as blood tests.
Your neurosurgeon will review the result of the tests and give you a diagnosis.
Discussion with Your Neurosurgeon About Treatment Plan
After reaching a diagnosis, your neurosurgeon will not use a cookie-cutter approach for treatment but will develop a personalized treatment plan for you. They will discuss all your options with you and inform you about the pros and cons of each option.
They will also answer all your questions about your treatment options and ensure you are confident about your treatment.
Neurosurgeons in Aurora, CO
If you are looking for a top neurosurgeon in Colorado Springs, visit us here at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery. Our team of compassionate and experienced neurosurgeons takes pride in providing exceptional care for your cranial and spine conditions. They are trained to provide both surgical and nonsurgical treatments to patients suffering from brain and spine issues.
To schedule an appointment with one of our neurosurgeons, call us today at (303) 790-1800 or use our convenient online appointment request form.