Neurosurgeons and Neurologists are both specialists who treat diseases and problems of the Nervous System.  Many other organ systems within the body are also split between  "surgical" and "medical" specialists such as Cardiothoracic Surgery & Cardiology, Urology & Nephrology, General Surgery & Gastroenterology, Etc.

 

Headaches, dizziness, and seizures, for example, are typically seen by Neurologists.  Brain tumors, spine tumors, and many problems related to back pain, neck pain, and radiating pain with numbness into the extremities are typically seen by Neurosurgeons.  There are many overlaps and it is not uncommon for a Neurologist to refer a patient to a Neurosurgeon and vice versa.

 

Let your Primary Provider help you determine if you should be seen by a neurological specialist and which one you should see first.

Neurosurgeons should always choose the safest and most efficient procedure to accomplish their surgical goals and minimize "risks."  Minimally invasive procedures with small incisions are becoming standard and therefore always considered first when developing a surgical plan. Not all problems can be addressed with a small surgical procedure. When the potential "benefit" is very high, we can accept the increased "risk" of larger procedures. 

 

Surgical outcomes are only as good as the diagnosis is strong. A "perfect surgery" will offer risk without benefit if the diagnosis is wrong. There are many clear-cut "black and white" problems that are either obviously surgical or obviously not surgical.  Most neurosurgical problems fall into the "grey zone" and Dr. Phillips will help you navigate towards the best treatment plan that works for you.  Dr. Phillips feels that surgery should not always be seen as the pinnacle of care but instead a potential stop along the way towards feeling and being better. 

 

Check back soon to read more blog posts from the Practice