Learn How We Diagnose and Treat Brain and Spine Conditions at Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic
Our neurosurgical team members at Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic perform a number of tests and treatments at our state-of-the-art clinic—helping to evaluate, diagnose, and treat our patients as quickly and effectively as possible. Some of the tests and treatments we specialize in include:
Tests
X-ray
X-rays are radiation waves that can pass through the body and create images of internal body organs, tissues, and bone. An X-ray is especially useful for looking at bone alignment and detail.
CAT Scan
Computerized axial tomography, also known as a CAT scan, is an X-ray procedure that produces a three-dimensional scan of the body. CAT scan technology is typically used as a guide for surgeons to use during complicated surgical procedures.
MRI Scan
Magnetic resonance imaging, commonly referred to as MRI, is a non-invasive imaging technique used to diagnose and treat various medical conditions. An MRI scan doesn’t involve radiation, and instead uses a magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body.
Electromyography
Electromyography, or EMG, is a test performed to measure the electrical activity of muscles. This is important for determining problems related to specific nerves, brain, spinal cord, or a particular muscle.
Nerve Conduction Study
Also known as NCS, a nerve conduction study is a test commonly used to evaluate the function of the motor and sensory nerves, especially the ability of electrical conduction. It’s mainly used for the evaluation of paresthesias (numbness, tingling, burning) and/or weakness of the arms and legs. Some of disorders which can be diagnosed by nerve conduction studies include peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, [link to 3.2.6 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome] and ulnar neuropathy.
Electroencephalogram
An electroencephalogram, or EEG, is designed to record brain waves. Brain waves are the electrical activities and signals that the brain creates. A doctor may order an EEG test to help diagnose seizures or cerebral lesions and tumors.
Myelogram
A myelogram is a type of X-ray test in which a dye is injected into the spinal canal to help highlight the spinal cord and nerve roots and identify abnormalities. This test shows a high level of detail and is helpful in determining the causes of pressure on nerve roots such as a herniated disc, an injury, or a tumor. For patients who have metal plates or screws in their spine, a myelogram may be preferable to a standard MRI or CAT scan.
Discogram
This test helps identify which discs in the spinal column are causing pain. A needle is placed into the spaces between the discs under X-ray guidance, after which dye is injected. Then, a CT scan is performed.
Angiogram
An angiogram is used to evaluate arteries and veins in the head, neck, and brain. A doctor inserts a catheter into a major artery in the groin. Once the dye is injected into the artery, X-rays are taken. It’s often used to determine the degree of narrowing of an artery and to detect the location and size of aneurysms and vascular malformations.
Procedures
Robotic Spine Surgery
Robotic spine surgery is a type of robot-assisted surgery that can help surgeons operate with greater precision and accuracy, which can ultimately lead to faster recovery time and smaller incisions.
Cervical Disc Surgery
This is a common surgery that’s used to treat cervical spine problems, including herniated discs, typically by removing a problematic disc and any associated bone spurs.
Lumbar Disc Surgery
Lumbar disc surgery can help correct a lower disc problem, by surgically removing the portion of the disc that’s putting pressure on the nerve.
Craniotomy
In a craniotomy, a piece of the skull is cut away so a neurosurgeon can access the brain for effective treatment of conditions like aneurysms and brain tumors.
Endovascular Procedures
Endovascular surgery is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure used to treat vascular (blood vessel-related) disorders from within arteries and veins.
Epidural Steroid Injection
A neurosurgeon injects a needle mixed with cortisone and a local anesthetic between the bones in the spine, delivering medication close to nerves irritated by problems such as ruptured or degenerated discs, bone spurs, and narrowing of the spine or nerve openings. Most epidural injections are fluoroscopically guided, which means the neurosurgeon is watching the injection using a live X-ray.
Make an Appointment
To meet with one of our neurosurgical experts, make an appointment today. Patients in severe pain or with newly diagnosed critical conditions can usually be seen within 24 or 48 hours.