Neurological disorders – conditions that affect the healthy functioning of the brain, spine and nervous system – are among the most common health problems in the world. Many neurological disorders can be treated with medication and other therapies, but in some cases, surgery may be the best treatment for resolving symptoms. If you’ve been diagnosed with a neurological condition that could benefit from surgical intervention, here’s a guide to finding a neurosurgeon in Hudson County, New Jersey.
When Do You Need a Neurosurgeon?
Nearly a thousand different neurological disorders can cause symptoms such as numbness or weakness in the limbs, seizures, and problems with movement, vision, thinking or speech. These include chronic health conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and epilepsy, as well as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Events like injury, stroke or a herniated disk in the spine can cause neurological symptoms, and so can some kinds of infection and inflammation. Neurological disorders can also be caused by structural or physical problems such as tumors in the brain or spine, abnormalities in bone or blood vessels, or narrowed or blocked arteries.
Many neurological conditions don’t require surgery, and symptoms can be managed by a primary care doctor or neurologist with medications and a variety of supportive therapies. But when those symptoms are caused by abnormalities or blockages, surgery can be the best option for long term recovery. In those situations, a primary care doctors or a neurologist may refer you to a neurosurgeon for treatment.
Neurosurgeons are surgical specialists who also have extensive additional training in surgical procedures related to the brain and spine. Some specialize even further and treat specific conditions such as cancer or spinal problems, while others provide care to certain populations, such as children.
Neurosurgeons can also provide non-surgical treatments when appropriate, and they can work with primary care doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for a neurological problem. With so many possibilities, some careful research and consideration of your own priorities can help you find the right Hudson County neurosurgeon for your treatment and recovery.
Plan and Prioritize
Whether your neurologist or primary care doctor has provided names of potential neurosurgeons, or you’re searching for one on your own, it’s important to determine your specific needs and priorities. Factors to consider might include whether a neurosurgeon has experience treating your particular condition, or the quality of the facilities at which he or she performs procedures.
You may also want to think about what qualities a doctor should have in order for you to feel confident and comfortable about their expertise, such as a willingness to talk honestly about your condition, answer your questions, or respect your cultural or spiritual traditions. If you’re seeking a neurologist for your child’s condition, you might want to know how the surgeon relates to children.
Take a little time to list your priorities and any questions you have. Then, it’s time to do some research.
Review Training and Qualifications
Research the neurosurgeon’s public profile to find out about their medical education and training in neurosurgery, as well as specializations in your condition. Here, you can learn about the doctor’s contributions to research and experience with innovative treatment options, as well as any professional qualifications, awards, or other kinds of recognition. Consider how long the neurosurgeon has been in practice and dates of their most recent training.
You may also want to check with the state licensing and medical review boards to learn whether any complaints or disciplinary actions have been taken against the doctor.
Research Hospitals and Clinics
The facilities where neurosurgeons perform procedures play an important part in your decision, too. You may want to find out whether a hospital or clinic has dedicated facilities and trained staff for neurosurgical procedures and postoperative care, as well as general information about any complaints, fines or other actions taken against the facility. You might also want to consider whether the hospital is a teaching or research institution focused on finding new treatments for your condition.
Get Reviews and Referrals
If you have the names of some neurosurgeons for consideration, you may want to ask other healthcare professionals about them or talk to other patients about their experiences. Online review sites provide opportunities for patients to rate not only doctors but also hospitals and other staff members so you may want to check them for comments on potential candidates.
Organizations related to your condition, such as the Acoustic Neuroma Foundation for people with acoustic neuromas, can also offer suggestions about finding a neurosurgeon. You may also want to contact support groups for patients and their families to find out about experiences with a particular doctor or facility.
Schedule a Consultation
Once you’ve done your background research, schedule an appointment to meet with potential neurosurgeons in person. That allows you to ask questions and assess whether the doctor is someone who inspires your trust and makes you feel comfortable. Consider whether the neurosurgeon is willing to talk honestly and respectfully about your condition and all the available treatment options, and to accommodate your individual needs and preferences wherever possible. If you’re researching a pediatric neurosurgeon for your child, note whether the doctor is child-focused and addresses your child’s concerns too.
Choosing the right neurosurgeon to treat your condition is the first step in your journey toward recovery. By considering your priorities, doing some research, and meeting with potential candidates, you can find the neurosurgeon in Hudson County who can work with you to create the best plan for treating your neurological disorder.
