Decoding Neurosurgery: Your Brain, Spine, and Nerves

While people often associate “neurosurgery” with brain surgery, the field encompasses a broad range of conditions and treatments, impacting the brain–yes–and also the spine, nerves and overall quality of life.

At St. Luke's Health - Sugar Land Hospital, we're proud to offer access to world-class neurosurgical care through our collaboration with Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center, which is recognized among the top 50 U.S. hospitals for neurological/neurosurgical care by U.S. News and World Report.

“Our team of skilled subspecialists ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their specific needs,” said Dr. Cyrus King III, a board-certified spine neurosurgeon at St. Luke’s Sugar Land. “This means that instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, each patient benefits from the focused expertise of a doctor deeply knowledgeable in their particular condition.”

The Power of Specialization: A Look at Neurosurgical Subspecialties

Think of neurosurgery like a tree with many branches. Each branch represents a subspecialty, focusing on a specific area or type of neurological condition. Here's a glimpse into some of the key areas:

Brain and Skull Base Tumor Surgery: This subspecialty focuses on the diagnosis and surgical removal of tumors located in the brain or at the base of the skull. These procedures often require intricate techniques and advanced technology to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Cerebrovascular and Stroke Neurosurgery: This area addresses conditions affecting the blood vessels of the brain, including aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and stroke. Neurosurgeons in this subspecialty use both surgical and minimally invasive techniques to restore blood flow and prevent further damage.;

Epilepsy Surgery: For patients whose epilepsy doesn't respond to medication, surgery can be a life-changing option. Neurosurgeons specializing in epilepsy surgery identify and remove or disconnect the areas of the brain causing seizures.

Functional Neurosurgery: This innovative field uses advanced techniques like deep brain stimulation (DBS) to treat movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. It can also be used to treat psychiatric disorders.

Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Neurosurgeons are using advanced techniques to treat disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression.

Pain Management (Including Trigeminal Neuralgia): Neurosurgery offers solutions for chronic pain conditions, including trigeminal neuralgia, a debilitating facial pain disorder. Procedures can range from nerve blocks to more complex surgical interventions.

Pituitary Disorders: The pituitary gland, a small but vital structure at the base of the brain, can be affected by tumors or other disorders. Neurosurgeons specializing in pituitary disorders use minimally invasive techniques to remove tumors and restore hormonal balance.

Spine Surgery: This is perhaps the most well-known area of neurosurgery, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting the spine, from herniated discs and spinal stenosis to scoliosis and spinal tumors.

Why Choose St. Luke's Health - Sugar Land Hospital for Neurosurgical Care?

“When facing a neurological condition, choosing the right medical team is crucial,” said Dr. King.  “Patients who choose St. Luke’s Health - Sugar Land benefit from convenient care close to home and a specialized care team with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to well-being.”

At St. Luke’s Health - Sugar Land Hospital, patients also benefit from:

Access to Subspecialized Expertise: Through our collaboration with Baylor Medicine, patients receive care from neurosurgeons with focused expertise in specific areas.

Advanced Technology and Techniques: Our neurosurgeons utilize the latest advancements in surgical technology and minimally invasive techniques to improve outcomes and reduce recovery times.

Personalized Care: We understand that every patient is unique. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns, thoroughly evaluate your condition, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Multidisciplinary Approach: Our neurosurgeons collaborate with experts from other specialties at Baylor Medicine to provide comprehensive, coordinated care.

If you or a loved one is experiencing neurological symptoms, explore your options and find the specialized care you deserve.

Click here to find a doctor near you!