Neurosurgery clinics are medical facilities that specialize in physical brain disorders. Other parts of the nervous system like the spinal cord and nerves may also be investigated at these facilities. A team of specialists use advanced neurological equipment to diagnose and treat related conditions, and surgery is one common method of treatment. In addition, neurosurgery clinics may have rehabilitation and research centers.
General care physicians may refer patients to a specialty neurological facility like a neurosurgery clinic if a nervous system disorder or trauma is suspected. These primary physicians may provide clinic employees with a patient's medical background and any relevant X-rays or similar tests. Such documents are an important component of an initial patient consultation.
Teams of neurological specialists work in a cooperative atmosphere at neurosurgery clinics. General neurologists are often employed, as are radiologists, oncologists, and anesthesiologists. Neurosurgeons — who perform brain surgeries — are, of course, part of the team as well. These physicians are assisted by a wide support staff that includes nurses, orderlies, and receptionists.
Diagnosis is one main component of neurosurgery clinics. A wide range of disorders can negatively impact the nervous system’s functioning, ranging from malfunctioning nerves to tumors. Neurosurgery clinics often possess the most up-to-date and efficient equipment and testing procedures for uncovering these conditions. Such equipment might include the most efficient scanning machines like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines.
These clinics also offer treatment planning, in which the medical team works with patients to determine the most effective form of treatment. If surgery is determined as a needed option, physicians will outline the steps and risks involved in the procedure. Further, they will answer any questions the patient may have. In many cases, the surgery itself may be performed in the clinic.
Post-operative care is another feature of many neurosurgery clinics. A patient who has undergone brain surgery or any significant procedure involving the brain or nervous system will likely require more than average amounts of rehabilitation. Thinking and sensory or motor functions may be impaired for a period of time. Rehabilitation like occupational therapy exercises is provided in these cases. Follow-up appointments for less severe cases with no long-term side effects are still needed as well.
The medical field changes every day in its information base and its practices. Many neurosurgery clinics seek to remain on the forefront of these advancements by conducting research and clinical trials. In such cases, staff may carry out independent experiments. They may also ask for volunteers to participate in research studies or to evaluate the effectiveness of certain new treatments and medications.