The Neurosurgery & Spine department at Aster Medcity is dedicated to delivering exceptional medical care and treatment for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system. With a focus on advanced medical techniques and a multidisciplinary approach, our department is committed to providing the highest quality care to our patients.
Expert Neuro-Spine Team: Our department boasts a team of highly skilled and experienced neurosurgeons and spine surgeons. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care. They are at the forefront of medical advancements and are dedicated to finding innovative solutions for even the most complex neurosurgical and spinal cases.
Comprehensive Treatment: We offer an extensive range of treatments for various neurological and spinal conditions. For neurological ailments, our treatments cover a wide spectrum, including stroke management, brain tumor resections, and the treatment of head injuries. On the spinal front, we provide interventions for conditions like spinal tumors, disc herniation, cervical and lumbar spondylosis, sciatica, and congenital spinal deformities.
Multidisciplinary Approach: We believe in a collaborative approach to patient care. Our neuro-spine team works closely with specialty nurses, rehabilitation therapists, and radiology technicians to ensure that each patient receives personalized and holistic treatment. This collaboration enhances patient outcomes by addressing not only the medical aspects of their condition but also their overall well-being.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Our department is equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and imaging equipment. This allows us to accurately diagnose and treat various neurological and spinal conditions with precision. Our radiology technicians are skilled in performing advanced imaging studies that aid in the diagnosis and treatment planning process.
Customized Treatment Plans: Every patient is unique, and we understand that their conditions and needs vary. Our team designs tailored treatment plans that take into account each patient's individual situation, medical history, and preferences. This patient-centered approach ensures that our patients receive the most appropriate and effective care possible.
Focus on Rehabilitation: Recovery is a crucial phase of treatment. Our rehabilitation therapists play a vital role in helping patients regain their mobility, strength, and functionality. Through targeted rehabilitation programs, we aim to optimize our patients' recovery and quality of life after surgery or treatment.
At the Neurosurgery & Spine department at Aster Medcity, we are dedicated to excellence in patient care, innovation in medical practices, and fostering a compassionate and supportive environment for both patients and their families. Our goal is to provide comprehensive and effective treatment for neurological and spinal conditions, ultimately improving the lives of our patients.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
ORI Fusion Digital Integrated Operation Theatres With 22 Operating Rooms that are on par with some of the largest in the world, Aster Medcity, for the first time South India, introduces ORI Fusion Digital Integrated Operation Theatres using Karlstorz OR1 Fusion - Asia Pacific’s first complete digital integration system.
The integration enables real-time sharing of images, videos and medical reports, which not only facilitates virtual participation from any location in the world but also helps the rest of the surgical team to monitor the patient closely during the operative procedure, much to the benefit and safety of the patient undergoing the surgery.
Aster Medcity is also the first surgical facility in the state to offer Robotic Surgery using a high-precision da Vinci Surgery Robot.
Advanced Features
- PACS, HIS, and video recording integrated for single monitor control by Surgeons
- Each Operating Room has 3 cameras and 6 monitors for Doctors to monitor patient parameters and the surgical procedures
- Operative procedures can be transmitted live to various locations within and outside the Hospital
- Facilities for interactive sessions during operation through live transmission of the procedure
- Doctors can join the Surgical team and monitor the patient from any location outside the hospital
- Da Vinci Surgical Robot for performing minimally invasive Robotic Surgery
- State-of-the-art engineering techniques to maintain positive pressure within operating rooms along with heap filters to reduce infections
- Individual air handling unit for each Operating Room
- Equipped with Isocentric C Arm
- Advanced facilities to monitor including depth of Anaesthesia, Neuromuscular Monitoring, Transcranial Doppler and 3D Echocardiogram
- High-end Anaesthesia workstation with precision delivery of Anaesthetic gases
- Autopilot facility Anaesthesia machines
- Capability to export information to all ICUs within the hospital
- Induction bay with facilities for parents to be with children during induction of Anaesthesia
- As all Operating Rooms here are approximate of the same size, they can accommodate a variety of equipment- surgical, as well as those for ensuring the safety and protection of the patient
- Stringent Infection Control measures followed under the surveillance of experienced Doctors
Anesthesia Team
- Perioperative anesthetic care
- Anesthesia for solid organ transplant
- Invasive monitoring of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and associated techniques
- Anesthetic support for SSEP and MEP
- Anesthesia for infants, neonates, and children
- Anesthesia for craniofacial reconstructive and cosmetic surgery
- Labor analgesia and obstetric Anaesthesia
- Regional anesthetic techniques with ultrasound and PNS
- Transesophageal echocardiography
- Fiber optic bronchoscopy
- Difficult intubation maneuvers
- Intar aortic balloon support
- Inotropes vasodilators and vasopressors
- ECMO and LVAD assistance
- Neuro monitoring: BIS, NIRS, neuromuscular monitoring, TCD
- Special anesthetic techniques for awake craniotomies
- Blood conservative measures
Seamless Team Work
The ORI Fusion Digital Integration system in the Operating Rooms helps create a workflow that’s seamless by enabling virtual participation of Doctors in the procedure, from whichever part of the world they are in at that point in time. As all medical reports and image modalities including the operation procedure can be transmitted live to any location inside or outside the hospital, Doctors can become a part of the Surgery Team on a real-time basis, wherein they can interact with Surgeons in the OR, closely monitor the procedure as well as patient parameters and contribute their expert suggestions.
- Karl Storz OR1 Fusion Technology
- Single monitor control enabled through integration of PAC, HIS & Video Recording
- Live to share all image modalities & medical reports
- 3 cameras and 6 monitors in every OR.
Waiting Lounge
Aster Medcity understands that the time of surgery is stressful for the family of the Patient as well, which is why the bystander’s waiting lounge has been designed in such a way that it provides a calming, comforting ambiance
Scenic view of the backwaters from the visitor's lounge, Recliner Chairs, Cafeteria
Guest Relation Team who updates the bystanders on patient’s progress at regular intervals and ensures a warm, hospitable atmosphere.
Aster Hospitals are well equipped to run all kinds of neurological diagnostic tests. Our top-of-the-line medical equipment and highly experienced doctors and surgeons strive to their maximum capacity to properly diagnose and offer treatments that help heal patients, prolong life, and improve the patient's quality of life.
FAQs
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
Why test sudomotor function?
A sudomotor function test is a quick and reliable way of identifying certain types of neuropathies. The presently available tests detect only 50-60% of neuropathies. This test helps the clinician to identify small fiber neuropathies and improve diagnostic accuracy.
What are the types of neurological disorders?
Neurological disorders are differentiated based on the following:
- Genetic defects: Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and epilepsy can run in families.
- Anatomic or structural defects: Bell's palsy, cervical spondylitis, carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Degenerative changes due to age: stroke, dementia, precipitation of Parkinson's.
- Blood supply issues(vascular) like brain damage, memory loss, and vascular dementia.
- Cancer: paraneoplastic disorders of the nervous tissues can cause problems like loss of consciousness, loss of muscle movement, thinking, memory, and sensory perception.
- Injuries and trauma related: can be due to physical(acute spinal cord injury, ALS, Ataxia) or emotional trauma(adverse childhood experiences can precipitate neurological symptoms).
- Infections: several viral infections can cause neurological disorders like meningitis, encephalitis, chickenpox, and polio.
- Seizure disorders: epilepsy.
Are all neurological disorders incurable?
Neurological disorders hamper the quality of life, are severe, and can be fatal. Though most are still incurable, many treatment outcomes depend on causative factors. With advanced medical procedures and palliative care, many symptoms can be improved and reversed in some cases.
What role does the spine play in neurological disorders?
Your spine connects your limbs and lower body to the brain with the help of nerve fibers and nervous tissue. Any damage to the spine can cause neurological disorders and vice versa. Spinal cord disorders have the potential to cause long-term & severe neurological issues.
What are the benefits of awake craniotomy
The benefits of an awake craniotomy include:
- Real-time monitoring of brain function to avoid damage to critical areas.
- Better tumor or lesion removal accuracy.
- Reduced risk of neurological deficits after surgery.
What is the recovery process like after balloon compression?
The recovery period is relatively short for most patients. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or facial numbness, which typically resolves within a few days to weeks. Pain relief may occur immediately after the procedure or take a few days to manifest.
How long does the Radiofrequency Ablation procedure take?
The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete.
Is Radiofrequency Ablation a permanent solution for trigeminal neuralgia?
The effectiveness of Radiofrequency Ablation varies from patient to patient. While some individuals may experience long-lasting pain relief, others may require repeat treatments or experience recurrent pain over time.
How does a neuro surgeon decide on a treatment plan?
Neuro surgeons gather detailed information through patient interviews, physical exams, and imaging studies like MRIs. They analyse the collected data to identify the root cause of the problem. The surgeon then formulates a treatment plan, aiming to achieve the best possible outcome while minimising risks.
What advancements or technologies are utilised by neuro surgeons?
Neurosurgeons use stereotactic radiosurgery, like Gamma Knife or CyberKnife, to treat brain tumours without cutting. This technology delivers precise radiation to the affected area, protecting healthy tissue. It's an effective, non-invasive option with quick recovery times.
What documents should I carry on my first visit to a neuro surgeon?
Bring any referral letters from other doctors and notes from previous consultations related to your neurological condition. These documents provide context and background, helping the neurosurgeon piece together your medical history and collaborate with other healthcare providers involved in your care.
How do neuro surgeons decide if surgery is necessary?
The type and location of the problem are important. For example, surgery might be needed if a tumour is pressing on important brain or spine areas. Neuro surgeon in Kochi at Aster Medcity uses scans and other tools to find the problem location and plan the best surgery.
What is the role of a neuro surgeon in a patient's treatment journey?
In a patient's treatment journey, a neurosurgeon assesses symptoms, orders tests, and interprets results to diagnose accurately. They perform necessary surgeries and oversee post-operative care, including pain management and rehabilitation. They ensure the patient understands their condition and the steps needed for recovery and maintenance.
What is a neurological disorder?
In medical terms, a neurological disorder can be defined as a disease, abnormality, or disorder affecting the brain, nerves, spinal cord, or nervous tissue present anywhere in the body. These disorders involve all electrical, biochemical, and structural problems related to the organs of the nervous system.
When to go to a neuro physician?
Symptoms that persist for a long time need to be reviewed by a neuro physician like
- Severe or chronic headaches.
- Chronic pain in the body which is not of skeletal origin.
- Dizziness or problems with body balance.
- Chronic numbness or tingling in feet, fingers, wrists, etc
- Mild tremors or chronic twitching of muscles.
- Confused thoughts, random train of thoughts, memory problems.
Neurological disorder vs mental illness/disorder?
Neurological disorders are caused due to malfunction or damage to the central/ peripheral nervous system.
Mental illnesses or disorders are manifestations of disturbed behavioral issues and emotional problems.
Is awake craniotomy painful?
No, the patient should not feel any pain during the surgery due to the use of local anesthesia and sedation. However, they may experience some pressure or discomfort during the procedure.
Is balloon compression a permanent solution for trigeminal neuralgia?
Balloon compression is not always a permanent solution, but it can provide pain relief for a significant period, often months to several years. The duration of pain relief varies from patient to patient.
Is Radiofrequency Ablation the first treatment option for trigeminal neuralgia?
Radiofrequency Ablation is generally considered after other conservative treatments like medications (anticonvulsants) have been unsuccessful or caused intolerable side effects. It is a less invasive option compared to some other surgical procedures, such as microvascular decompression (MVD).
Is Radiofrequency Ablation painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation, so the patient should not feel significant pain during the treatment. However, some patients may experience mild discomfort during the procedure.
What does a neuro surgeon do?
A neuro surgeon in Kochi performs surgeries on the brain and spine to treat conditions like herniated discs, water in the brain, and epilepsy. They use advanced equipment to do delicate operations, aiming to relieve symptoms, restore function, and improve brain and nerve health.
What question should you ask a neuro surgeon?
You should ask about the follow-up care and monitoring required after the procedure. Find out how often you will need check-ups, what tests will be necessary, and how your progress will be tracked. Knowing this ensures you stay on top of your health post-treatment.
What are the most common types of conditions that neuro surgeons treat?
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from impacts or accidents are among the common conditions neurosurgeons handle. These injuries can cause brain swelling and bleeding. Surgeons perform emergency operations to reduce pressure in the skull, remove blood clots, and repair brain damage to save lives and restore function.
When should I consider seeing a neuro surgeon?
Consult a neuro surgeon in Kochi if you have been diagnosed with a neurological condition like Parkinson's disease or epilepsy that isn't well-managed by medications alone. Advanced surgical treatments, such as deep brain stimulation or other neurosurgical procedures, might be recommended to improve your quality of life.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a neuro surgeon?
For your first neuro surgeon visit, prepare a detailed summary of your symptoms, medical history, and any treatments you have tried. Bring copies of recent imaging studies, like MRIs or CT scans. List any questions you have about your condition and possible treatments to discuss during your appointment.
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