neurocirúrgica

Neurocirúrgica, a term commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries, refers to the branch of medicine that deals with the surgical treatment of disorders of the nervous system, particularly the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and cranial nerves. The field emerged in the 19th century, building upon early anatomical studies and the development of anesthesia, and has evolved into a highly specialized discipline that integrates advanced imaging, microsurgical techniques, and neurophysiological monitoring.

Practitioners of neurocirugía typically undergo extensive education, beginning with a medical degree followed by a residency in neurosurgery that spans five to seven years. Training emphasizes not only surgical skills but also knowledge of neuroanatomy, neuroimaging, pathology, and postoperative critical care. Many neurosurgeons pursue further specialization through fellowships in subfields such as functional neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, or cerebrovascular surgery.

Modern neurocirugía employs a range of techniques, from open craniotomies and laminectomies to minimally invasive procedures such as endoscopic skull base surgery and stereotactic radiosurgery. The use of intraoperative imaging, such as MRI and CT, assists in precise lesion localization and margin assessment. Microsurgical instruments, neuronavigation systems, and intraoperative neurophysiology monitoring (e.g., motor evoked potentials) have increased safety and efficacy, allowing surgeons to approach complex lesions with reduced morbidity.

Key conditions treated by neurocirugía include brain tumors, aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, spinal cord compression, trauma, and movement disorders. Advances in molecular biology and targeted therapies are expanding the scope of surgical indications, while interdisciplinary collaboration with radiologists, neurologists, and rehabilitation specialists remains essential for optimizing patient outcomes.