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Q. What is a brain tumour?
When there is abnormal or excessive growth of brain tissue it forms a mass or swelling leading to compression or pressure on the surrounding tissue This is a brain tumor.
Q. What is Hydrocephalus?
Hydro means water and cephalum means brain. When there is obstruction to the flow of Cerebro Spinal Fluid (CSF) in the brain, it leads to hydrocephalus.
Q. What is Brain Haemorrhage?
When there is bleeding in the brain without trauma or head injury.
Q. What is cervical spondylosis?
When there is a natural degeneration of the vertebrae of the neck it leads to Cervical Spondylosis. Some individuals age faster than others so Cervical spondylosis may manifest even at a relatively early age of 35-40 years.
Q. What should I expect when I see a neurosurgeon?
Back and neck pain, or surgery that involves the brain, can be scary for the patient and their family. First and foremost, the surgeons want to ease your fear by sitting down for an unhurried, one-on-one conversation. During your initial exam, you will discuss your condition, including medical history, symptoms and your expectations for treatment.
Q. What if I don’t want to have surgery?
Don’t be afraid to speak up about your comfort level with certain treatments. A neurosurgeon’s ability to treat back and neck pain is not limited to surgery. Your surgeon may suggest you begin with a more conservative treatment for your pain, such as heat or ice, physical therapy, back exercises, weight reduction, steroid injections, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or limited activity. If they are not effective, you may then decide to consider surgery.
Q. If I choose to have surgery, how long will I need to be off from work?
This depends on your situation. The length of time to take off work or limit certain activities is highly variable and will be decided by your surgeon.
Q. What tests will I need prior to surgery?
Neurosurgeons make their diagnosis based on your health history, symptoms, and physical exam, plus the results of diagnostic studies, if necessary. These tests may include a CT scan, electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction study, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), myleogram or selective nerve root block.
Q. Will I have pain after surgery?
Pain is common following surgery but should gradually resolve. You will be prescribed pain medications to help with the pain. You should take it as directed. You can supplement with over-the-counter medications, but you should avoid taking additional Tylenol with many of the common pain medications. Heat or ice may also be helpful after surgery.
Q. Is every head injury serious?
No not every head injury is serious. But when one falls from a speeding vehicle without a HELMET, the impact on the brain and its internal structures is far more serious ( many lead to death) than slipping in one's house or staircase.
Q. Does a fracture of skull need surgery?
If the fracture is undisplaced and patient is conscious and awake, surgery is not required. If the fracture penetrates the brain or its covering (depressed fracture) surgery may be required to remove the bone pieces
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