Neurosurgery at Saint Mary’s
Overview
Neurosurgery Procedures
Complementary Therapies
In the field of neurosurgery, advances in computer science and electronics are providing better images of the brain – both static as well as real time visualizations of the brain at work. These advances give our physicians and surgeons more sophisticated and accurate diagnoses for patients.
Meanwhile, neurosurgical treatment options have also advanced. Increasingly, treatment is moving toward minimally-invasive procedures that help patients recover more rapidly.
A team of experts to manage your care
At Saint Mary’s, we offer a unique model of care that unites medical excellence with an individualized, compassionate approach. For all patients who require neurosurgery, we provide:
- Surgeons who are the top in their field
- A comprehensive system of care
- A cohesive, multidisciplinary team approach
- A patient-focused approach to diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up
- Advanced technology
- Partnerships with leading medical institutions
With the addition of two new neurosurgeons in 2004, Saint Mary’s is uniquely positioned to offer the most advanced surgical care in the region.
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Neurosurgery Procedures
Patients in Grand Rapids benefit from the expertise of neurosurgeons who provide today’s most promising procedures.
Deep Brain Stimulation
During this promising new treatment for Parkinson’s disease, an electrode is surgically implanted into the brain to deliver electrical pulses that block abnormal activity and alleviate symptoms. The electrode is attached to a device similar to a cardiac pacemaker that is placed below the collarbone and programmed for individual patient needs. Deep Brain Stimulation has fewer risks than traditional surgical methods.
Endovascular Treatment of Cerebral Vascular Disorders
“Endovascular” means “within the blood vessels.” These minimally invasive procedures are performed with intricate instruments that are advanced through catheters to abnormalities in the vessel. Cerebral aneurysms, clogged arteries, and other disorders are treated, eliminating the need for major surgery. In November, 2004, Saint Mary’s made news when neurosurgeons and interventional radiologists inserted a coil into a vessel to stabilize a cerebral aneurysm.
Epilepsy Surgery
Between 20 and 30 percent of patients with focal epilepsy do not respond to medicine, making them potential candidates for surgery. Surgical treatment at Saint Mary’s includes the procedure known as temporal lobe surgery, a breakthrough treatment that has proven safe and effective. To be successful, the areas of the brain responsible for causing seizures must be clearly identified and meticulously removed. Patients are experiencing dramatic results from this procedure, which is now being offered at Saint Mary’s.
Facial Pain
Facial pain can be caused by a number of conditions, but all result in excruciating pain. The most common cause is an abnormal blood vessel or a normal blood vessel abnormally close to a facial nerve. The pulsing of the blood running through the vessel puts pressure on the nerve, causing pain. During a microvascular decompression procedure, neurosurgeons identify the errant blood vessel and separate it from the nerve with a Teflon felt. Saint Mary’s will soon provide the first specialized facial pain service in West Michigan.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
West Michigan ’s first minimally-invasive spine surgery was performed at Saint Mary’s. One type of minimally invasive procedure is the new spinal fusion technique. Spinal fusion is used to treat degenerative disc disease, disc injury, misaligned vertebrae, and spinal fractures. During the procedure, implants are used to keep the vertebrae in proper position until the fusion heals.
Instead of the traditional 6-to-7 inch incision with cuts made in muscles and ligaments, several small half-inch cuts are made and tissue damage is minimal. For patients who meet the criteria for this procedure, there is a significant reduction in postoperative pain, hospital stay and recovery time
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Complementary therapies help mind and body
In conjunction with The Wege Institute at Saint Mary’s, we actively integrate complementary therapies into patients’ overall treatment program. These therapies provide healing benefits for mind, spirit and body.
Beneficial complementary therapies include:
- acupuncture
- art therapy
- manual therapy
- massage therapy
- music therapy
Learn more about how complementary therapies facilitate healing and provide profound benefits to patients with neurological disorders.
For more information, or to schedule a consultation, please
call us at 616-685-5050, or toll-free at 877-702-5050.
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