Neurosurgery is a specialised medical field focused on diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain, spine and peripheral nerves. A/Prof Raj Reddy offers a comprehensive range of neurosurgical procedures in Sydney, tailored to address various neurological conditions.
Brain surgery
Brain surgery includes various procedures aimed at treating conditions affecting the brain and its structures. A/Prof Reddy specialises in several procedures, including:
Craniotomy: This procedure involves temporarily removing a portion of the skull to access the brain for surgical intervention. It’s commonly performed to remove brain tumours, alleviate pressure from traumatic brain injuries or address cerebral aneurysms.
Decompressive craniectomy: In cases of severe brain swelling, a decompressive craniectomy is performed to remove a section of the skull, allowing the brain to expand without being compressed. This procedure is crucial in managing traumatic brain injuries and preventing further neurological damage.
Neuroendoscopy: A minimally invasive technique that uses an endoscope to access and treat areas within the brain. Neuroendoscopy is often used for removing tumours or treating conditions like hydrocephalus, offering the benefits of smaller incisions and reduced recovery times.
Awake brain surgery (awake craniotomy): This innovative procedure involves performing brain surgery while the person is conscious. It allows surgeons to monitor neurological functions in real-time, ensuring critical areas of the brain are preserved during operations for tumours or epilepsy.
Spine surgery
Spinal issues can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. A/Prof Reddy offers spine surgeries to address various spinal conditions:
Spinal fusion: This surgery involves joining two or more vertebrae to eliminate movement between them, providing stability and alleviating pain caused by conditions like degenerative disc disease.
Laminectomy (decompression surgery): A procedure that removes a portion of the vertebral bone called the lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, commonly used to treat spinal stenosis.
Discectomy: This involves removing a herniated or damaged disc that is pressing on a nerve root or the spinal cord, aiming to relieve pain and restore normal function.
Disc replacement: This procedure replaces a damaged disc with an artificial one.
Peripheral nerve surgery
Peripheral nerve disorders can lead to pain, numbness and functional impairments. A/Prof Reddy provides surgery for various peripheral nerve issues:
Carpal tunnel release: A procedure to relieve pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, addressing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Ulnar nerve decompression: Surgery to alleviate compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow or wrist, often causing numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers.
Peripheral nerve repair: Involves repairing damaged nerves outside the brain and spinal cord to restore function and sensation.
Conditions treated
A/Prof Reddy’s expertise in neurosurgical procedures allows him to manage a wide array of conditions, including:
Brain:
- Brain tumours: Both benign and malignant growths within the brain tissue.
- Cerebral aneurysms: Weak, bulging spots in brain arteries that can rupture and cause bleeding.
- Hydrocephalus: A condition characterised by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain cavities.
- Chiari malformations: Structural defects in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Injuries resulting from external force, leading to temporary or permanent brain dysfunction.
Spine:
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Herniated discs: Condition where the soft centre of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing, potentially pressing on spinal nerves.
- Traumatic spinal injuries: Injuries to the spine, spinal cord and surrounding structures occur when they are subject to excessive loads or a traumatic event, such as a fall or motor vehicle crash.
- Peripheral nerve injuries: Damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often leading to weakness, numbness and pain.
For more detailed information on specific procedures and conditions, please visit the relevant pages on A/Prof Reddy’s website or contact his practice to book a consultation.
When should I see a neurosurgeon?
You should see a neurosurgeon when your GP or other doctor advises you to and provides a referral.
Not every condition requires surgery; your neurosurgeon will advise you if non-surgical medical care is more appropriate. If surgery is recommended, they will guide you through preparation, as well as support your recovery and rehabilitation afterwards.
Sometimes, other specialised surgeons, such as plastic and reconstructive surgeons, and allied healthcare workers, like occupational therapists and physiotherapists, may also be involved in your care.
How to prepare for your neurosurgical appointment.
Sources
- Neurological Society of Australasia, Patient information.
Image courtesy of Gerd Altmann/Pixabay.
