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Neurosurgery

Neurosurgery is a specialty that treats surgical problems of the brain and spine/spinal cord.  We provide tertiary and quaternary care across Nova Scotia and the Atlantic provinces, with comprehensive services for patients in the Central Zone of the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA). Our primary care sites include the QEII Health Sciences Centre and the IWK Health Centre in Halifax.

Our commitment to research and innovation is central to improving patient care. We aim to provide world-class neurosurgical care, research, and education, driven by the dedication and expertise of our multidisciplinary team and partners.
 

Dr. Clarke and Dr. Hong reviewing surgical plans.png

Brain Health

Through our multidisciplinary clinics, we offer comprehensive patient assessments while minimizing wait times. We utilize minimal-access surgical techniques and outpatient procedures to reduce hospital resource use, shorten surgery wait times, and lower the risk of post-surgical complications.

Specialized Programs in Neurosurgery:

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Patient Education Resources

Adrenal Insufficiency

| .pdf

Adrenal insufficiency happens when your adrenal glands do not make enough hormones. Adrenal insufficiency may be permanent or temporary. Topics include causes, symptoms, treatment, medication, why you should wear a MedicAlert, and special dosage instructions for stressful times.

Attachment
Categories
Glands and Hormones
Medications

Angiogram

| .pdf

An angiogram is a special X-ray test. A clear dye will be injected into your blood vessels. This pamphlet goes over getting ready for the test, how the test is done, and care after the test.

Attachment
Categories
X-ray
Scan or Test
Cardiovascular

Central Diabetes Insipidus (DI)

| .pdf

Central diabetes insipidus (also called diabetes insipidus or DI) is a condition that causes the water in your body to be out of balance. This pamphlet explains the causes and symptoms of DI, and how DI is diagnosed and treated.

Attachment
Categories
Diabetes

Concussion Recovery

| .pdf

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This pamphlet includes information on how long symptoms last, symptoms to watch for, and what to expect the first few weeks. An in-depth list of common symptoms and how to deal with them, and a FAQ section is also included.

Attachment
Categories
Nervous System
Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation

CT Scan

| .pdf

CT scans give detailed pictures of bones and soft tissue organs. This pamphlet explains how to get ready for the scan, what happens during the scan, questions about breastfeeding after the scan, side effects, how long it will take, and when to expect results. This pamphlet is also available in French.

Attachment
Categories
Scan or Test
CT Scan

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

| .pdf

The MRI machine takes detailed images that show tissues in your body to help health care providers diagnose your condition. This pamphlet explains how long an MRI takes, how to get ready for your MRI, what to bring to your appointment, and what will happen during and after the MRI. This pamphlet is also available in French.

Attachment
Categories
Diagnostic Imaging
MRI

PICC Line

| .pdf

A PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) line is a long intravenous (I.V.) catheter (tube). It is put into a vein in your arm and threaded into a vein above your heart. This pamphlet explains how it will be inserted, risks, taking care of your line, and symptoms to watch for.

Attachment
Categories
Medications

Subdural Hematoma

| .pdf

This pamphlet explains the different types of subdural hematomas, causes, symptoms, possible tests, treatment, surgery, what will happen after surgery, special situations, possible complications, discharge planning, and how you will know if the subdural hematoma comes back.

Attachment
Categories
Nervous System
Surgery

Ventricular Drain

| .pdf

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cushions the brain and spinal cord and sometimes requires the use of a ventricular drain. This pamphlet explains how the drain is inserted, what will happen when the drain is in place, how the drain is taken out, and the possible risks.

Attachment
Categories
Intensive Care
Nervous System

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Patient Education Resources

Helpful Links

Brain Injury Association of Nova Scotia
Aspen Vista Collars Handbook.pdf

Accessing Primary Care

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