Who is a Neurosurgeon?

A Neurosurgeon is a physician who is specialized in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases and conditions of the central (brain and spine) and peripheral nervous system with the help of medications and surgeries. They also treat conditions in other body parts that arise due to problems in the central or peripheral nervous system.

What are the qualifications of Neurosurgeon?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Neurosurgeon:

• FRCS - Neurosurgery
• MRCS (UK)
• Fellowship in Interventional Neurosurgery (FINR)
• Ph.D. - Neuro Surgery
• MS - Neuro Surgery
• DNB - Neurosurgery
• Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in Neurosurgery, FRACS (Neurosurgery)
• Diplomate American Board of Neurosurgery (DABNS)
• MCh - Neuro Surgery

How is a Neurosurgeon different from a Neurologist?

Neurosurgeons evaluate, diagnose, and provide treatment of diseases and conditions of the central (brain and spine) and peripheral nervous system with the help of medications and surgeries. Neurologists, on the other hand, treat the same neurological problems and conditions but with medications and lifestyle modifications. they do not perform surgeries.

What conditions do Neurosurgeons treat?

Neurosurgeons treat a wide range of neurological conditions. Some of them are:

• Cerebral aneurysms
• Brain and spinal tumours
• Herniated discs
• Hydrocephalus
• Head, neck or spinal injury
• Osteoarthritis
• Seizures and epilepsy
• Parkinson's disease
• Movement disorders

When should an individual visit a Neurosurgeon?

An individual should visit a Neurosurgeon if they have symptoms of a neurological condition. Some of the symptoms are:

• Atypical and frequent headaches
• Balancing issues and frequent dizziness
• Unusual tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• Pain traveling to the leg
• Episodes of seizures
• Decreased mental alertness
• Increased fatigue
• Poor cognition
• Loss of sensation

How do I consult a Neurosurgeon?

You can consult a Neurosurgeon either online or offline. However, depending on the availability of the doctor and the convenience of the patient, pre-booking may be required for consultation.

How often should an individual visit a Neurosurgeon?

It is recommended that an individual should visit a Neurosurgeon if they notice irregularities, symptoms, or pain related to neurological conditions. If a person has an existing neurological condition, they must follow up with their Neurosurgeon as advised.