Neurosurgery is a highly specialized and demanding branch of surgery that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and cerebrovascular system. It combines cutting-edge technology with intricate anatomical knowledge and rapid decision-making.

Core Subspecialties of Neurosurgery

1. Cranial Neurosurgery

• Brain tumors (e.g., gliomas, meningiomas)

• Traumatic brain injury (hematomas, skull fractures)

• Hydrocephalus (ventricular shunting)

• Epilepsy surgery

• Functional neurosurgery (e.g., deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s)

2. Spinal Neurosurgery

• Disc herniation and spinal stenosis

• Spinal cord tumors

• Spinal trauma and fractures

• Scoliosis and deformity correction

• Minimally invasive spine surgery

3. Pediatric Neurosurgery

• Congenital anomalies (e.g., spina bifida, craniosynostosis)

• Pediatric brain tumors

• Hydrocephalus in infants

4. Vascular Neurosurgery

• Aneurysms

• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)

• Stroke surgery

• Carotid endarterectomy

5. Peripheral Nerve Surgery

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Brachial plexus injuries

• Nerve grafting and decompression

6. Skull Base Surgery

• Accessing deep-seated tumors and lesions near the brainstem and cranial nerves.

7. Oncologic Neurosurgery

• Multidisciplinary approach to brain and spinal cancers, often involving radiation and chemotherapy.

Tools and Techniques

• Microsurgery: Operating under high magnification

• Neuronavigation: GPS-like guidance during surgery

• Intraoperative MRI/CT

• Endoscopic neurosurgery

• Robotic-assisted procedures

• Stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife)