Neurosurgery
"Neurosurgery is the discipline of surgery which provides the operative and non-operative management of disorders of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems."
-Dr. Robert Spetzler
What is Neurosurgery?​
Neurosurgery focuses on treating conditions that affect the brain, spine, and nerves. From removing brain tumors to repairing spinal injuries, neurosurgeons work on some of the body’s most complex and delicate systems. Their goal is to restore function, relieve pain, and sometimes even save lives all through surgery on the nervous system.
How Do You Become A Neurosurgeon?
​Common Surgeries​
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Craniotomy: This is a very common surgery which involves cracking open the skull to relieve pressure from cases like TBIs or brain cancers.
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Laminectomy: This surgery is used to remove part of the spine which is putting pressure on nerves.
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Deep Brain Stimulation: This involves putting electrodes in the brain to stimulate certain parts of the body to treat disease like Parkinson's or Huntington's.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Tools & Technology​
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CT/MRI: They are methods to take detailed images of inside the body that can be studied to understand the patient's problems. CT scans use x-rays while MRI scans use powerful magnets.
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Neurostimulators: They are small devices that are implanted in the brain that use electric stimulation to produce specific neural activity and hormones.
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Electrocautery/Lasers: These are used to cut tissue precisely and minimize damage at the same time. Electrocautery is also used to close cuts after surgery.
Lifestyle & Salary
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Average salary is $600,000-$800,000 a year which is one of the highest in the world.
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They have very demanding schedules, having to work about 60-80 hours a week including nights, weekends, and holidays.
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Feels very rewarding after due to saving someone's life​
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There is potential for work-life balance later in your career with private practices and working as a teacher or researcher.