Neurosurgeon

A neurosurgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the surgical treatment of disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. The field overlaps with neurology but focuses on operative management and complex reconstruction. Neurosurgeons treat a wide range of conditions such as traumatic injuries, tumors, degenerative diseases, vascular disorders, and congenital abnormalities. Pediatric neurosurgery is a common subspecialty that focuses on children.

Training and certification: After earning a medical degree, aspiring neurosurgeons complete a residency in neurosurgery, typically lasting six to seven years, with additional fellowships available in subspecialties. Certification is offered by national boards in many countries after a formal examination. Practicing neurosurgeons work in hospitals, university medical centers, and specialized clinics.

Common subspecialties and procedures: spinal neurosurgery (fusion and decompression), brain tumor surgery, vascular neurosurgery (aneurysm clipping, AVMs), functional neurosurgery (deep brain stimulation for movement disorders, epilepsy surgery), pediatric neurosurgery, and skull base surgery. Procedures include craniotomy, laminectomy and discectomy, tumor resection, aneurysm clipping, AVM removal, and implantable devices. They often use intraoperative imaging, neuronavigation, endoscopy, and microsurgical techniques.

Role and patient care: Neurosurgeons assess imaging studies, plan surgical approaches, and manage perioperative care. They collaborate with other specialists such as neurologists, oncologists, and rehabilitation professionals. Outcomes vary by condition and patient factors; the field emphasizes informed consent, risk disclosure, and multidisciplinary care. The discipline’s modern form is often traced to pioneers such as Harvey Cushing, who advanced brain tumor surgery and neurosurgical training in the early 20th century.