Functional Neurosurgery
Introduction
Functional neurosurgery (a new classification of neurosurgery aimed at achieving quality-of-life outcomes in patients with neurological diseases) is already in clinical use (Liepmann, 2010). In contrast to conventional surgery, the only aim is the alteration of brain function rather than the ejection of the disease, but it is to remodel brain function in the treatment of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and pain.
Thanks to modern advances, this is a therapeutic that is changing the lives of millions. Let’s talk about what it is and the disruption it is generating in the medical field.
What is Functional Neurosurgery?
The surgery of neurologic function instead of neurologic system anatomic defect is termed functional neurosurgery. It addresses high-resolution mapping of the brain, spinal cord and/or parasympathetic nerve supply for symptom management in neurological disorders.
Common Conditions Treated: Common Conditions Treated:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Epilepsy
- Dystonia
- Essential tremor
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Chronic pain
Why is Functional Neurosurgery Needed?
Functional neurosurgery is essential for patients who have:
- Failed to respond to conventional therapies or medications.
- Debilitating symptoms severely affect their daily lives.
- Conditions like epilepsy, where seizures are life-threatening.
Logic dictates that the patients are given a reason that they can be cured of drug dependence and can be released from drug dependence.
Example: Gait and tremor of a patient with Parkinson’s disease may be substantially enhanced by deep brain stimulation (DBS) of DBS of a patient with Parkinson’s disease.
Types of Functional Neurosurgery
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
- Used for Parkinson’s, dystonia, and essential tremors.
- In specific brain areas, a recording electrode is placed for aberrant behaviors.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
- Commonly used for epilepsy.
- Stimulates the vagus nerve to reduce seizure frequency.
- Motor Cortex Stimulation (MCS)
- Targets the motor cortex to treat chronic pain.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery
- Radiation beam non-invasive treatment for destroying abnormal brain tissues.
Procedure Steps
Methods of functional neurosurgery are not necessarily equivalent to all surgical classes but comprise:
- Pre-Surgical Assessment:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scan image maps of predicted brain voxels.
- Neurological evaluations to determine eligibility.
- Surgical Planning:
- 3D mapping of the brain for precise targeting.
- Surgical Intervention:
- Electrodes or devices are introduced under local/general anesthesia.
- Post-Surgical Monitoring:
- Periodic re-visits to optimize implanted devices, such as DBS.
Benefits of Functional Neurosurgery
- Improved Quality of Life: Restores mobility and reduces pain.
- Non-Permanent Adjustments: Devices like DBS can be fine-tuned.
- Drug Reduction: Decreases reliance on medications with severe side effects.
- Minimally Invasive Options: Stereotactic techniques reduce recovery time.
Risks and Complications
Functional neurosurgery in general is a relatively safe procedure however there are some risks it entails: .
- Infections: At surgical sites or implant locations.
- Bleeding or Stroke: Rare but possible during brain surgeries.
- Device Malfunction: Requires reprogramming or replacement.
- Cognitive Side Effects: Temporary memory or speech issues.
Note: Risks are minimized with advanced technologies and experienced surgeons.
Cost of Treatment in India Compared with the USA
Functional neurosurgery is a relatively inexpensive (in comparison with other countries) and health tourism industry in India, so it can attract foreign medical tourists in the world.
| Procedure | India | USA |
| Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) | $15,000 – $25,000 | $60,000 – $100,000 |
| Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) | $10,000 – $20,000 | $50,000 – $90,000 |
Why Choose India?
- World-class neurosurgeons with global certifications.
- State-of-the-art hospitals offer cost-effective treatments.
Top Hospitals in India for Functional Neurosurgery
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
- Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram
- NIMHANS, Bengaluru
- Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
Hospitals such as this have state-of-the-art, modern equipment and highly skilled neurosurgical staff.
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