'common problems'

Trauma or injury to the skull or spinal cord occurs most commonly due to vehicular accidents. Other reasons for injuries remain fall from height, fall of heavy object over the body or any cause we attribute as accidental. The injuries to brain and spine can be minor , major or critical which will necessitate urgent intervention. Surgery for such Brain injuries is required only under special circumstances like open fractures, blood clots or large swelling of the brain lobe. Surgery is spinal injuries is required if there is fracture , dislocation or imminent threat to limb function. The neurosurgeon is best trained to determine the need for such surgeries and also timing them so as to minimise damage and ensure recovery.

Pituitary Tumors - Surgery for tumors arising from the pituitary gland . the pituitary gland lies at the base of the brain in a small bony impression called as the sella. The pituitary gland is responsible for the overall control of hormones regulating the various bodily functions ( thyroid, adrenals, gonads-ovaries & testes). Tumors arising from the pituitary gland can present with hormonal disturbances, eyesight problems (reduction in visual field)and other non-specific problems like headaches or giddiness. All these problems can arise slowly or may manifest suddenly due to bleeding inside the pituitary gland( pituitary apoplexy). Surgery is needed for tumors which are not responsive to medications or if the tumor is causing pressure on the optic nerves giving rise to visual problems. Surgery for pituitary adenomas is most commonly performed through the nostril with an endoscope or microscope. Patients need hospital stay for 4-5 days approximately. close monitoring of hormones is required in the post operative period.

Surgery for problems arising in brain or Spine in children ( below 18 years). several common problems like hydrocephalus ( accumulation of excess fluid in brain), tumors, spinal problems ( tethered cord- part of spine remains tethered )

Surgery for problems arisng from diseases affecting the blood vessels of the brain. common problems are bleeding secondary to aneurysmal hemorrage, infarcts caused by narrowed neck vessels, Moya moya disease.

Surgery of spinal disorders like degenerative disorders, spinal tumors, spinal trauma and congenital spinal problems. Common spinal problems lead to pain in the neck, lower back or pain radiating in hand or leg. spinal problems may also result in walking difficulty by causing gait disturbances, leg cramps and tingling sensations or numbness.