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Neurosurgery: Frequently Asked Questions
I am experiencing back pain; do I need
to have surgery?
The most common causes of back pain are sprains and overexertion.
Usually, you'll need to rest your back. Sometimes - though less
common - physical therapy is needed.
If you have intense pain accompanied by a pain shooting down
your leg, then you may have a herniated disc. A disc is the
cushion
between each of the vertebrate in your spine. Each disc is covered
by a tough, fibrous tissue which has the consistency of leather.
When the covering ruptures, the inside of your disc, which is
"the consistency of crab meat" slips out and presses against
nerves in your spine. Contact the
Central Maryland Neurosurgical Associates, LLC at Mercy to schedule an appointment.
What do you do to treat ruptured or
herniated discs?
Our surgeons operate to remove the damaged disc and leave more
room for the nerves. We take out all the soft disc material that
has
slipped
out
of
the covering, and about 60 percent of the disc that has not yet
slipped out, ruptured or herniated from its cover.
Do you replace a damaged disc with
an artificial disc?
Yes we can.
If you have a damaged cervical or lumbar disc, we evaluate the
need for disectomy, fusion, or replacement. We offer minimally
invasive disectomies for lumbar herniated discs, as well as minimally
invasive fusions in select patients. In some cases, the artificial
disc may be best.
We are currently conducting an FDA monitored clinical trial
focusing on cervical artificial discs. In addition, we offer
the lumbar Charite artificial disc, recently approved by the
FDA. If you think you may be a candidate for this procedure,
please call our offices at 410-391-6904 for more information.
What kind of headaches should I worry
about?
If you experience a sudden, severe headache--the worst headache
you've ever had in your life--you should go to an Emergency
Room
immediately. You could have a bleeding aneurysm caused by weakened
blood vessels in your brain. This is a very serious condition.
A headache that appears every morning and disappears later
in the day may indicate a possble brain tumor.
You should first check with your primary care doctor who may
then refer you to Central Maryland Neurosurgical Associates, LLC.
How do I know I do not have a brain
tumor?
It is true that sometimes we have illnesses we don't know about
because they have no clear warning signs. But with brain tumors,
headaches and neurological deficits, generally, there are symptoms
that provide clear warning signs and require a physician office
visit. It is unlikely you have a brain tumor if you have normal
concentration, memory, vision, balance, and hearing; if you have
not experienced a dramatic change in personality; or are not
weak on one side of your body. Contact
Central Maryland Neurosurgical Associates, LLC for more information or to schedule an appointment.
If I have a brain procedure will you
shave my head?
In general, it is not necessary to shave your entire head, although
the area immediately around the incision must be shaved.
If you have surgery scheduled, please feel free to consult
your surgeon about this or any other question you might have.
Where do I go if I have surgery?
It is best to arrive at the hospital one to two hours before your
scheduled surgery.
You
may park in The Saratoga Garage at Weinberg. For
directions to The Saratoga Garage at Weinberg click
here.
What do I need to bring with me to surgery?
Bring your x-rays and any other medical records you have. Your
surgeon will instruct you if you need to bring any additional
items. Contact Central Maryland Neurosurgical Associates,
LLC at Mercy for more information
or to schedule an appointment.
How long will I be in the hospital?
It depends on what type of procedure you have. Your physician
will provide you with that information prior to surgery.
How long will it take to heal?
The amount of time will depend on what type of surgery you have
as well as your condition before surgery. Your physicians
will
review your treatment and recovery plan with you.
What should I expect in my recovery?
Recovery time depends on the kind of procedure, the patient's
age, and health before the procedure. You may have some tenderness
around the area of the incision. You will not be able to perform
heavy lifting, exercise or activities. As with any procedure,
your physician will give you specific directions.
Where can I find additional information?
Now Accepting New Patients.
Most Insurances Accepted.
Please call for an appointment.
Phone: 410-391-6904
Tollfree: 1-800-MD-Mercy (1-800-636-3729)
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