Neurosurgery at the Richmond Brain and Spine Center

Neurosurgery is the process of treating brain and spinal cord-related conditions. These procedures must be performed by experienced, certified neurosurgeons. At Richmond University Medical Center, our team has access to the right tools and resources, allowing surgeries to be completed efficiently and safely. Learn more about neurosurgery and the procedures offered in Staten Island, New York.

What Is Neurosurgery?

When individuals hear the term “neurosurgery,” they typically think of procedures that are performed on the brain. However, neurosurgery also covers spinal and nervous system conditions. Neurosurgery can be completed non-invasively for cases that are mild and easy for surgeons to reach. However, if a patient’s condition is extensive and complex, more intense surgery methods may be required.

Because the brain is made up of many fragile parts, brain surgery requires a unique, specialized skill set. Richmond University Medical Center has a team of board-certified neurosurgeons with extensive experience operating on the brain and its systems. By using the most advanced technology available and the most modern surgical practices, neurosurgeons can perform a wide variety of surgeries to treat many different conditions.

Conditions We Treat

Richmond University Medical Center is equipped to treat and manage most neurological conditions. The neurosurgical team performs a comprehensive evaluation before developing a personalized treatment plan, ensuring the best outcomes for the following conditions:

Brain Tumors

Brain tumors are masses of abnormal cells that develop in the brain. While not all tumors are cancerous, even benign tumors can interfere with essential brain functions. This may cause problematic symptoms that impact a patient’s quality of life. Depending on the tumor’s location, current size, and rate of growth, surgery may be necessary to prevent brain damage.

Herniated Discs

The spine is a column of interlocking bones called vertebrae. Spinal discs are located between vertebrae, where they provide cushioning and reduce friction. Herniated discs occur when damage causes a spinal disc’s gel-like center to bulge outward. The bulge may press against the spinal cord or root nerves. Our treatments aim to relieve nerve compression while restoring function to the spine.

Pituitary Tumors

The pituitary gland is an organ located near the brain. It is responsible for producing hormones that govern a variety of vital body functions, including growth, metabolism, and stress responses. Pituitary tumors interfere with hormone production. This creates an imbalance that affects the whole body. Treatment is often required to restore a healthy hormone balance and let the body return to normal.

Spinal Stenosis

The spinal canal is a narrow space that allows the spinal cord to pass through the center of the vertebrae. Spinal stenosis refers to a narrowing of this canal. It can develop for a variety of reasons, ranging from birth defects to bone cancers or degenerative conditions. The narrowed space constricts the spinal cord, irritating the nerves and keeping them from functioning correctly.

Spine Disorder

The spine is one of the most important structures of the body. It supports the skeletal system, provides stability, and protects the spinal cord. A spine disorder is any condition that impedes these functions. Richmond University Medical Center is equipped to handle a full range of spine disorders, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and benign and malignant spine tumors.

Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to any damage to the brain. It typically results from an impact to the head, neck, or elsewhere in the body, and it can cause problems with the brain’s normal function. Mild TBIs cause only short-term symptoms, while severe damage may lead to permanent disability. Prompt medical care is crucial in all cases to prevent progressive damage and reduce the injury’s impact.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia refers to damage in the trigeminal nerve, which provides sensations to the face. It is a chronic condition that causes intense facial pain. Richmond University Medical Center has expertise in a variety of management techniques to alleviate discomfort and improve patients’ quality of life. We also offer surgical interventions to treat trigeminal neuralgia at its source for a permanent solution.

Neurosurgery Procedures Offered

The board-certified surgeons at Richmond University Medical Center can perform a large variety of neurosurgical procedures, including:

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery is a type of surgery that can treat mild, small, and easy-to-access tumors in the brain. For example, transsphenoidal surgery is a kind of minimally invasive procedure for pituitary tumors. During the surgery, surgeons remove tumors through an existing crevice of the body, like the nose. This prevents patients from having to heal from a surgical scar and can make the recovery process much smoother. Minimally invasive techniques can also be used to treat other conditions, like certain spine or brain disorders.

Discectomy

When a patient receives a discectomy, it is usually to treat symptoms of a herniated disc. Here, surgeons make an incision in the lower or upper back. This depends on the area in which the patient feels pain. Next, they work to remove the herniated disc and other affected parts. To finish surgery, surgeons typically complete a spinal fusion procedure to stabilize the backbone.

Craniotomy

A craniotomy is a more extensive type of brain surgery, as it requires that a surgeon completely open the skull to expose the brain. Craniotomies are performed only after other, less invasive methods have failed to treat the patient’s condition. However, this kind of procedure can be incredibly effective in removing tumors and other unusual masses from the brain. This is because surgeons can have full, efficient access to the brain.

Neurosurgery and Other Treatments at Richmond University Medical Center

The medical professionals at Richmond University Medical Center are here for patients on Staten Island seeking treatment for certain conditions. With an emphasis on patient-centered, compassionate care, patients receive a personalized treatment plan to address their concerns and alleviate symptoms. To learn more about neurosurgery and other surgeries we perform, contact us today.