Conditions, Pathologies, and Diseases Treated
Brain tumors, skull base surgeries, neurovascular procedures, cervical spine procedures, thoracic spine procedures, and other spine procedures.
Conditions, Pathologies, and Diseases Treated
Neurological Procedures
Brain Tumor Procedures
An astrocytoma is a type of brain tumor that originates from cells called astrocytes, which are a type of glial cell. Glial cells provide support and nourishment to neurons in the brain. Astrocytomas can occur in various parts of the brain and spinal cord.
Awake mapping surgery, also known as awake craniotomy or awake brain surgery, is a specialized surgical technique performed on patients with brain tumors or lesions that are located in or near critical brain areas responsible for vital functions, such as language, motor control, and sensory perception. The purpose of awake mapping surgery is to precisely identify and protect these critical brain regions during tumor removal while minimizing the risk of postoperative neurological deficits.
A glioma is a type of tumor that originates from glial cells in the brain or spinal cord. Glial cells are supportive cells that surround and nourish neurons. Gliomas are the most common type of primary brain tumors, meaning they start in the brain rather than spreading from other parts of the body.
Brain cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop within the brain. They are noncancerous and are generally considered benign. Brain cysts can vary in size and location, and they can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later in life.
Brain metastases refer to secondary tumors that have spread to the brain from cancer originating in another part of the body. These tumors are more common than primary brain tumors, which originate within the brain itself. Brain metastases occur when cancer cells break away from the primary tumor site and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to reach the brain.
Fluorescence-guided tumor surgery is a surgical technique that utilizes fluorescent dyes or contrast agents to enhance the visualization and precise removal of tumor tissue during surgery. The technique involves the administration of a fluorescent agent that selectively accumulates in tumor cells, making them glow or emit fluorescence under specific lighting conditions.
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly aggressive and malignant type of brain tumor that belongs to the group of gliomas. It is the most common form of primary brain cancer in adults. GBM tumors are characterized by their rapid growth, invasive nature, and ability to affect various regions of the brain.
Laser Tumor Ablation, also known as Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT), is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat tumors in the brain or other parts of the body. It involves the use of laser energy to heat and destroy the tumor cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Meningiomas are tumors that originate from the meninges, which are the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Meningiomas are typically slow-growing and are usually noncancerous (benign), although in rare cases they can be malignant.
Metastatic brain tumors, also known as secondary brain tumors, are tumors that have spread to the brain from cancer originating in another part of the body. These tumors are more common than primary brain tumors, which originate within the brain itself.
Neuro-oncology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of tumors affecting the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding structures. Neuro-oncology combines principles of neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and other related disciplines to manage and care for patients with brain and spinal cord tumors.
Primary brain tumors are tumors that originate within the brain itself, rather than spreading from cancer in other parts of the body. These tumors develop from various types of cells in the brain, including glial cells (such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells) or cells within the brain’s supporting structures (such as meninges).
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a non-invasive technique used to deliver highly precise and concentrated radiation to target specific areas within the brain or other parts of the body. Despite its name, SRS does not involve traditional surgery and does not require any incisions or invasive procedures.
Skull Base Procedures
Cushing’s disease, also known as pituitary Cushing’s syndrome, is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by the excessive production of cortisol, a hormone normally produced by the adrenal glands. The condition is caused by a benign pituitary adenoma, a non-cancerous tumor of the pituitary gland, which secretes an excess amount of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, leading to the characteristic symptoms of Cushing’s disease.
Endoscopic skull base surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique performed to access and treat conditions affecting the skull base using an endoscope. The endoscope is a long, thin tube with a light and camera at the tip, allowing the surgeon to visualize the surgical field on a monitor.
Hemi-facial spasm is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions or spasms on one side of the face. The spasms usually begin in the muscles around the eye and can gradually spread to involve other facial muscles, including the cheek, mouth, and jaw.
Endoscopic endonasal removal of pituitary tumors is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to access and remove pituitary tumors through the nasal passages. This approach avoids the need for traditional open skull surgery, resulting in shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and reduced risk of complications.
The removal of skull base tumors refers to surgical procedures aimed at removing tumors located in the skull base region. These surgeries are complex and require a multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat specialists), and other specialists.
Skull base cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks refer to the abnormal leakage of cerebrospinal fluid from the skull base region. The skull base is the bottom part of the skull that separates the brain from the structures of the face and neck. CSF leaks can occur as a result of trauma, surgery, underlying medical conditions, or spontaneously.
Skull base surgery refers to a specialized type of surgical procedure performed to treat conditions affecting the skull base, which is the area at the bottom of the skull where the brain meets the structures of the face and neck. The skull base is a complex region containing critical nerves, blood vessels, and vital structures.
Trigeminal neuralgia, also known as tic douloureux, is a severe facial pain disorder that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sensations from the face to the brain. It is characterized by sudden, intense, and recurring episodes of excruciating facial pain that can be triggered by even mild stimuli, such as eating, talking, or brushing teeth.
Vestibular schwannomas, also known as acoustic neuromas, are benign tumors that develop from the Schwann cells of the vestibulocochlear nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sound and balance information from the inner ear to the brain. These tumors typically arise from the vestibular portion of the nerve, which is responsible for balance.
Neurovascular Procedures
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) embolization and resection are two treatment options for arteriovenous malformations, which are abnormal tangles of blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord. AVMs consist of abnormal connections between arteries and veins, bypassing the capillary network.
Arteriovenous fistulas (AV fistulas) are abnormal connections or passageways between an artery and a vein. Normally, arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body’s tissues, while veins carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. In an AV fistula, the direct connection between an artery and a vein bypasses the capillary network, resulting in abnormal blood flow patterns.
Brain aneurysm coiling and clipping are two different treatment approaches for managing a brain aneurysm, which is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain. These procedures aim to prevent the risk of rupture and subsequent bleeding, which can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Carotid artery disease refers to the narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries, which are the major blood vessels that supply oxygenated blood to the brain, head, and neck. It is typically caused by the buildup of fatty deposits called plaques within the inner lining of the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis.
Carotid artery dissection is a condition characterized by a tear or rupture in the layers of the carotid artery, which is one of the main blood vessels supplying blood to the brain, head, and neck. This tear can lead to the formation of a blood clot, which can partially or completely block blood flow through the artery.
Carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) are abnormal connections between the carotid artery and the cavernous sinus, a venous structure located at the base of the skull. The carotid artery is a major blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the head and brain, while the cavernous sinus is a network of veins that drain blood from the brain.
Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a surgical procedure performed to remove plaque buildup from the carotid arteries, which are the major blood vessels in the neck that supply oxygenated blood to the brain. Plaque is composed of fatty deposits and other substances that can accumulate within the arteries and cause narrowing or blockage, a condition known as carotid artery stenosis.
Carotid stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat carotid artery disease. It involves the placement of a stent, which is a small metal mesh tube, into the carotid artery to open and support the narrowed or blocked artery.
Cavernous malformations, also known as cavernous angiomas or cavernomas, are abnormal clusters of blood vessels found in the brain or spinal cord. These malformations are characterized by dilated, thin-walled blood vessels that resemble small “caverns” or cavities filled with blood.
EC / IC bypass surgery, also known as extracranial-intracranial bypass surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to restore or improve blood flow to the brain when there is a significant blockage or narrowing of the major blood vessels supplying the brain.
Evacuation of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) refers to the surgical removal or reduction of bleeding that occurs within the brain tissue. This procedure aims to alleviate pressure on the brain and minimize damage caused by the accumulation of blood.
Hemicraniectomy is a surgical procedure in which a part of the skull is removed to relieve pressure on the brain. It is typically performed in cases of severe brain swelling, often caused by conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, or brain tumors.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), also known as pseudotumor cerebri, is a condition characterized by increased pressure inside the skull without an identifiable cause. “Idiopathic” means that the cause is unknown, and “intracranial hypertension” refers to the increased pressure in the skull.
Intracranial stents are devices used in neurosurgery to treat certain conditions affecting the blood vessels within the brain. These stents are similar to those used in other parts of the body, but they are specifically designed for use in the delicate and narrow blood vessels of the brain.
Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a surgical procedure used to treat certain types of facial pain, including trigeminal neuralgia. It is considered a highly effective treatment option for patients who have not responded well to medications or who experience intolerable side effects from medication.
Moyamoya disease is a rare progressive vascular disorder that affects the blood vessels in the brain, particularly the arteries at the base of the brain. The name “moyamoya” means “puff of smoke” in Japanese, describing the appearance of the tiny blood vessels that form to compensate for the blocked or narrowed arteries.
Pulsatile tinnitus is a type of tinnitus characterized by hearing a rhythmic sound or pulsing sensation in the ears. Unlike the more common form of tinnitus, which is often described as a constant ringing or buzzing noise, pulsatile tinnitus is associated with the perception of a rhythmic or pulsing sound that coincides with the heartbeat.
A spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels in the spinal cord. It is a type of vascular malformation that involves abnormal connections between arteries and veins in the spinal cord. AVMs in the spinal cord disrupt the normal blood flow and can cause a variety of symptoms and complications.
Spinal fistulas, also known as spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs), are abnormal connections or passageways between the arteries and veins in the spinal cord. These fistulas occur within the dural covering of the spinal cord, which is the outermost protective layer.
A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving the brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to become damaged or die within minutes.
Thrombectomy is a specialized procedure performed to remove a blood clot (thrombus) that is causing an ischemic stroke. It is a highly effective treatment option for certain patients who have experienced a severe stroke caused by a large artery blockage.
Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat carotid artery stenosis, a condition where the carotid arteries in the neck become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. TCAR combines elements of both traditional carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS) techniques.
Spine Procedures
Spine Procedures
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak repair refers to the surgical or non-surgical procedures performed to locate and repair a leak in the protective fluid-filled sac that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, called the dura mater. CSF leaks can occur spontaneously or as a result of trauma, surgery, or underlying medical conditions.
Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a condition characterized by low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure within the skull, which can lead to various symptoms and complications. It is typically caused by a spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak, where the fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord leaks out.
Cervical Spine Procedures
Anterior cervical corpectomy is a surgical procedure performed to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots in the cervical spine (neck region) by removing a portion of the vertebral body and adjacent intervertebral discs. It is typically done to treat conditions such as cervical spinal stenosis, cervical disc herniation, or cervical spondylosis that cause compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Anterior/posterior cervical fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the cervical spine (neck region) by fusing two or more vertebrae together. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as cervical disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, spinal instability, or cervical trauma.
Anterior / posterior cervical fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the cervical spine (neck region) by fusing two or more vertebrae together. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as cervical disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, spinal instability, or cervical trauma.
Cervical decompression refers to a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots in the cervical spine (neck region). It is typically done to treat conditions such as cervical spinal stenosis, herniated discs, bone spurs, or other abnormalities that cause compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Cervical disc replacement, also known as cervical arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to treat certain cervical spine conditions by replacing a damaged or degenerated cervical disc with an artificial disc implant.
Cervical fusion for tumors is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the cervical spine (neck region) when tumors are present. It involves fusing two or more vertebrae together to provide stability and prevent the spread or progression of the tumor.
Cervical laminectomy is a surgical procedure performed to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots in the cervical spine (neck region). It is typically done to treat conditions such as cervical spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or tumors that cause compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Cervical laminoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to decompress the spinal cord in the cervical spine (neck region). It is typically used to treat conditions such as cervical spinal stenosis, which causes narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of the spinal cord.
Cervical laminotomy is a surgical procedure performed on the spine to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots in the cervical (neck) region. It is a type of decompressive surgery commonly used to treat conditions such as cervical spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or bone spurs in the neck.
Cervical laminectomy and fusion is a surgical procedure performed to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots in the cervical spine (neck region) and stabilize the affected area through fusion of the vertebrae. It is typically used to treat conditions such as cervical spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or instability in the cervical spine.
Cervical posterior foraminotomy is a surgical procedure performed to decompress the nerve roots in the cervical spine (neck region). It is typically used to treat conditions such as cervical radiculopathy, which occurs when nerve roots in the neck are compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms and hands.
Lumbar Spine Procedures
Anterior/posterior spinal fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the spine by fusing together two or more vertebrae using both anterior (front) and posterior (back) approaches. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as spinal deformities, spinal instability, fractures, or degenerative disc disease that require extensive stabilization and fusion.
Anterior spinal fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the spine by fusing together two or more vertebrae using an anterior (front) approach. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as spinal deformities, degenerative disc disease, fractures, or spinal instability.
Lumbar decompression is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots in the lumbar spine (lower back region). It is typically used to treat conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or other abnormalities that cause compression and neurological symptoms.
Lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove a herniated or damaged disc in the lumbar spine (lower back region). It is commonly used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, disc bulges, or disc degeneration that cause compression of the spinal nerves and result in symptoms such as back pain, leg pain, numbness, or weakness.
Lumbar fusion for tumors is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a tumor in the lumbar (lower back) region of the spine and the fusion of two or more vertebrae to provide stability to the spine. The procedure is typically performed when other treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy, have been ineffective in treating the tumor.
Lumbar laminectomy, also known as decompressive laminectomy, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots in the lumbar spine (lower back region). It is typically used to treat conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or other abnormalities that cause compression and neurological symptoms.
Lumbar microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure that aims to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves caused by a herniated or ruptured disc in the lower back. The procedure involves removing a small portion of the affected disc to alleviate pain and other symptoms associated with nerve compression.
Lumbar posterior fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the lumbar spine (lower back region) by fusing two or more vertebrae together. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as spinal instability, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal deformities.
Percutaneous pedicle instrumentation of the lumbar spine is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to stabilize the lumbar spine by placing instrumentation (such as screws, rods, or hooks) into the pedicles of the vertebrae.
Posterior spinal fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the spine by fusing together two or more vertebrae in the posterior (back) part of the spine. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as spinal deformities, spinal instability, fractures, or degenerative disc disease.
Thoracic Spine Procedures
Percutaneous pedicle instrumentation of the thoracic spine is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to stabilize the thoracic spine by placing instrumentation (such as screws, rods, or hooks) into the pedicles of the vertebrae.
Posterior thoracic decompression is a surgical procedure performed to relieve compression on the spinal cord or nerve roots in the thoracic spine (the middle and upper back region). It is typically used to treat conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or spinal tumors that cause compression and neurological symptoms.
Posterior thoracic laminectomy is a surgical procedure performed to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots in the thoracic spine (the middle and upper back region). It is typically used to treat conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spinal tumors, or other abnormalities that cause compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Thoracic posterior fusion is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the thoracic spine (the middle and upper back region) by fusing two or more vertebrae together. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as spinal deformities, fractures, tumors, or instability in the thoracic spine.
Thoracic posterior fusion for tumors is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the thoracic spine (the middle and upper back region) when tumors are present. It involves fusing two or more vertebrae together to provide stability and prevent the spread or progression of the tumor.
Other Spine Procedures
Exploration of fusion, also known as revision fusion or fusion exploration, refers to a surgical procedure performed to investigate the cause of failed spinal fusion or persistent symptoms following a previous fusion surgery.
Osteotomies are surgical procedures that involve cutting and reshaping bones. These procedures are typically used to correct deformities, improve joint function, or relieve pain in the affected area. Osteotomies can be performed on various bones in the body, including the hip, knee, ankle, and spine.
Revision spinal surgery is a surgical procedure performed to correct the problems that have arisen from a previous spinal surgery. It is also known as secondary or redo spinal surgery. The goal of revision spinal surgery is to address the complications or failures that occurred in the initial surgery, such as incomplete healing, hardware failure, nerve damage, or infection.
Removal of spinal implants/hardware refers to a surgical procedure that involves the removal of previously implanted spinal hardware such as rods, screws, and plates. This procedure may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including infection, pain, or implant failure.
Synovial cyst excision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a synovial cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac that develops on the spine’s facet joint. These cysts can cause pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to pain, weakness, and numbness in the back, legs, and feet.
