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Neurosurgery is a specialty which
deals with the treatment of diseases of the nervous system.
A neurosurgeon has completed four years of college, four
years of medical school, and then completes a residency
in neurosurgery lasting six to seven years. Some
neurosurgeons then choose to undergo additional training
in a subspecialty of the field, gaining additional experience
in such areas as spine surgery, vascular and skull base
neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery, stereotactic surgery,
surgery for pain, pediatric neurosurgery and Gamma Knife.
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Neurosurgeons treat lesions in the following
areas
- brain (aneurysns, hemorrhages, tumors
(benign and malignant))
- spine (disks, trauma, tumors)
- cervical
- thoracic
- lumbar
- peripheral nerves (compressions, lacerations)
- carpal tunnel
- ulnar nerves
- brachial plexus
- lumbosacral plexus
The majority of neurosurgical
procedures are performed under the microscope. Procedures
can last less than an hour, or can last an entire day.
Most neurosurgeons have developed the stamina to endure extremely
long procedures because residency training is very rigorous.
Neurosurgeons tend to be extremely meticulous,
conscientious, and passionate about their work. Many
seek certification by the American Board of Neurological Surgeons,
which is a governing body composed of prominent neurosurgeons
around the country, and oversees and assures that the quality
and integrity of neurosurgical care is maintained.
If you have any further questions
about the specialty, ask your neurosurgeon. Most likely
he/she will be happy to fill in more details.
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