A neurosurgeon is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spine, and nerves. While neurosurgeons are skilled in performing surgeries, they often recommend non-surgical treatments first, such as medications or physical therapy, depending on the condition. Conditions treated by neurosurgeons include brain tumors, herniated discs, spinal injuries, and nerve compression. Neurosurgeons work closely with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for neurological disorders. 

A referral to a neurosurgeon is typically made when a condition affecting the brain, spine, or nerves requires specialized care. This might include chronic back or neck pain, nerve damage, a brain tumor, or traumatic injury. Neurosurgeons carefully evaluate each case and do not always recommend surgery. Instead, they may suggest alternative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle changes. If surgery is necessary, they discuss all options and explain the risks and benefits to help patients make informed decisions. 

Neurosurgeons perform a wide range of procedures to address conditions of the nervous system. These include: 

• Brain tumor removal 

• Spinal fusion or decompression for back and neck issues 

• Aneurysm repair to prevent brain bleeding 

• Surgeries for epilepsy or movement disorders, like deep brain stimulation 

• Minimally invasive procedures for carpal tunnel syndrome or nerve repair 

They also utilize advanced techniques, such as robotics and imaging, to improve outcomes and reduce recovery times. Each treatment is tailored to the patient’s specific needs. 

Neurosurgeons and neurologists both specialize in conditions of the nervous system, but their roles differ. Neurosurgeons are trained to perform surgeries for conditions like brain tumors, spine disorders, and nerve injuries. Neurologists focus on diagnosing and managing neurological disorders without surgery, such as epilepsy, migraines, or multiple sclerosis. These specialists often work together to provide patients with a full range of care and treatment options. 

During your initial appointment, the neurosurgeon will: 

1. Review your medical history: Discuss your symptoms and any previous treatments. 

2. Conduct a physical examination: Perform a neurological exam to assess nerve function. 

3. Order diagnostic tests: Recommend imaging studies like MRI or CT scans if necessary. 

4. Discuss treatment options: Explain potential treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, tailored to your condition. 

This visit aims to develop a personalized treatment plan and address any questions you may have. 

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

• Your primary care provider recommends it. 

• Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 

• You need specialized testing or procedures. 

• You want a second opinion.  

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

You can find a Neurosurgeon in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

Neurosurgeon near New York, NY
Neurosurgeon near Los Angeles, CA
Neurosurgeon near Chicago, IL
Neurosurgeon near Houston, TX
Neurosurgeon near Phoenix, AZ
Neurosurgeon near Philadelphia, PA
Neurosurgeon near Atlanta, GA
Neurosurgeon near Boston, MA
Neurosurgeon near Dallas, TX
Neurosurgeon near San Jose, CA

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Neurosurgeon search results page. 

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

• Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 

• Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 

• Family history of disease 

• List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 

• Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  

• List of questions and concerns 

• Your insurance card 

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

Here are some sample questions: 

• Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 

• What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 

• What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 

• Are there other specialists I need to see? 

• What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Neurosurgeon search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

Acoustic Neuroma
Astrocytoma
Brain Aneurysm
Brain Tumor
Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation
Cerebral Palsy
Epilepsy
Glioblastoma
Glioma
Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)
Huntington Disease
Hydrocephalus
Metachromatic Leukodystrophy
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Parkinson's Disease
Peripheral Neuropathy
Seizures
Myelomeningocele
Spinal Stenosis
Stroke
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Neurosurgeon search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

Reviewed on: 11/07/24  

By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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