Functional
Neurosurgery

Conditions Treated.

Seizure disorders

These surgical procedures treat disturbances in brain functioning (unlike structural problems like tumours and bleeds). The common conditions treated with surgery are Seizure disorders and Parkinson's disease. Seizure disorders are incapacitating disease conditions which prevent normal functioning and life of an individual and cause progressive deterioration of brain function especially if uncontrolled despite multiple medications. It is in such a situation with no hope and extreme distress that surgery comes as a saviour. Surgically removing the small portion of the brain causing the seizure (point of origin) can help cure and control seizures. Another surgical method is the disconnection of some connections or circuits of the brain thereby preventing the spread of seizures and controlling the disease.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that affects movement. It happens when certain brain cells that make a chemical called dopamine stop working properly. This causes shaking, stiffness, and slower movement over time. The disease is progressive in nature and the disease control with drugs become poorer as time passes. Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS surgery is the cornerstone of surgical treatment of Parkinson's disease. It is a high accuracy surgical procedure involving the placement of small leads or electrodes in certain deep-seated parts of the brain (Subthalamic Nucleus). These leads are then connected to a Neurostimulator (pacemaker-like device) placed in the body of the patient. The neurostimulator sends tiny electrical impulses to the brain which help to control the symptoms of Parkison's Disease.

Trigeminal Neuralgia & Hemifacial Spasm

Trigeminal neuralgia is an extremely painful condition that affects the nerve responsible for sensation in the face, often causing sudden, severe, electric shock-like facial pain. The pain can be so intense that even light touch, speaking, or eating may trigger attacks. It is due to abnormal contact between blood vessels in the back of the brain and the nerves that carry sensations to the face. When medicines fail to control symptoms, surgery can be considered. The surgical procedure is complex and requires great precision. It can provide complete and lasting relief from the pain, allowing patients to return to normal life. Endoscope assisted decompressions of the Trigeminal nerve is the latest in surgical armamentarium for this condition. Hemifacial spasm is a condition in which muscles on one side of the face twitch or contract involuntarily. It is usually caused by a blood vessel pressing on the facial nerve, and like trigeminal neuralgia, it can be effectively treated with a delicate surgical procedure that often gives complete relief.