What is a neurosurgeon?

Neurosurgeons are doctors who specialise in the surgical treatment and management of conditions that affect your brain, spine and nervous system. They are also called brain surgeons.

To become a neurosurgeon, doctors must complete specialist training in neurosurgery. This can take between 5 and 9 years. Some neurosurgeons specialise in areas such as:

• children (paediatric neurosurgery)
• the treatment of cancers (neuro-oncology)
• spinal surgery

Neurosurgeons are different from neurologists. Neurologists are doctors that treat conditions and diseases of the brain and nervous system. But they do not perform surgery.

When do I see a neurosurgeon?

Neurosurgeons are involved in preventing, diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain, spine and nerves. They also treat and manage conditions that affect the flow of blood to the brain.

As well as doing operations, they may be involved in your rehabilitation after treatment.

Common reasons why you may need neurosurgery are:

• strokes, cerebral aneurysms (bulging blood vessels)
• brain and spinal tumours — both benign and cancerous
• spinal conditions — such as tethered spinal cords, herniated discs and osteoarthritis
• head, neck or spine injuries
• seizures, epilepsy and movement disorders
• neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease
• certain types of chronic pain

What should I expect during an appointment with a neurosurgeon?

Your neurosurgeon will ask you about:

• your condition and general health
• your symptoms
• any previous treatments you've tried

Your neurosurgeon will also look at any scans or medical images you've had. They may also ask to examine you.

Your neurosurgeon will decide if surgery is the best course of treatment for you. They will be able to tell you more about your diagnosis, the best course of care and treatment alternatives.

If you need surgery, your neurosurgeon can help you understand the likely outcomes.

How can I find a neurosurgeon?

Usually, your doctor will recommend a neurosurgeon to you.

It can sometimes take months to get an appointment with a neurosurgeon in private practice. If it's urgent, your doctor can try to help you get seen more quickly.

You can also use healthdirect's service finder to find a neurosurgeon near you.

The Neurosurgical Society of Australasia also has a find a surgeon search tool. The tool allows you to search for a neurosurgeon who specialises in the type of surgery you need.

What questions should I ask a neurosurgeon?

You may want to note down any questions you have before you go to your first appointment.

Here are some questions you may want to ask your neurosurgeon:

• What is my diagnosis?
• What is likely to happen if I do not go ahead with surgery?
• What are the options for my condition?
• What are the risks of the surgery or anaesthetic?
• How can I prepare myself for surgery?
• What will my recovery look like?
• How long will the procedure take

During the consultation, ask them to explain again if you don't understand what was said.

Do I need a referral to see a neurosurgeon?

You need a referral before you can make an appointment with a public or private neurosurgeon.

The information in the referral helps your neurosurgeon to understand your condition.

How much will a neurosurgeon cost?

You can see a neurosurgeon at a public hospital clinic. These appointments are covered by Medicare, so you don't need to pay anything. There could be a waiting list.

It can be expensive to see a private specialist, such as a neurosurgeon. The cost can vary greatly, depending on the type of care you receive.

When you make your appointment, ask about the costs. You can also ask what Medicare will cover.

If you plan to use private health insurance, contact your health fund and ask what they will cover.

If the costs are too high, you can:

• ask to see another neurosurgeon
• talk to your doctor about other treatment options

Resources and support

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.