Neuro Surgery

Neuro surgery is the medical procedure to help resolve the symptoms caused by head injuries and other neurological damage. Of all the medical fields out there, the neuro surgeon, also referred to as the brain surgeon, is among the most skilled and respected in the profession. They are able to work under tremendous amounts of stress, make judgments calls in a heartbeat, the have skill, education, and stamina.

Having a brain injury, tumor, or other neurological damage can be devasting. Patients and their families have more information and better skilled surgeons than ever before. A neuro oncologist will fully research the problem with advanced tests. This will reveal information regarding if surgery is even a good option for the patient. In the past, brain surgery was simply trial and error, with a high death rate. With the advanced research and technology, a person with not be considered for such a surgery unless it is very likely they will be successful. It is important to remember that while a brain



tumor is in one section, it affects the entire brain, so each person reacts differently to it.

When brain surgery actually began is not known. In France, skeletal remains have been found that date back to 700 B.C. with successful brain surgery have taken place. It is believed such brain surgery was used more for spiritual reasons and magic than for medical purposes. The practice was limited to kings, the rich, and nobility.

The earliest found writings on brain surgery are from Hippocrates. He also wrote about seizures, fractures, and depression. The majority of his findings still hold true today. This is fascinating because he died in 360 B.C. He is commonly referred to as the father of medical ethics.

On the horizion is stereotactic surgery. It is an innovative interaction between the surgeon and a computer system. This new technology will allow the computer to assist the surgeon in getting to areas where brain surgery is often considered too dangerous, and only done as a last resort.


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