Neurosurgery

The types of neurological disorders that usually need surgery include epilepsy, stroke, brain tumors, Parkinson's and other movement disorders.

Our neurosurgery team uses the latest technology to diagnose and treat you, and whenever possible, uses minimally invasive techniques.

Our approach to neurosurgery

If you're facing an upcoming surgery, it can be overwhelming. At UCI Health, we are fiercely patient-centered. Our neurosurgeons sit with you, explain your imaging tests, and gently guide you through your next steps. 

Neurology is the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the brain, spine and nervous system. Neurology and neurosurgery are among the most wide-ranging, complex areas of medicine. 

Your nervous system controls:

• all five senses
• how you move
• your thoughts and feelings
• involuntary body functions like breathing and pumping blood
• and body activities like temperature regulation

Your neurological systems run almost every aspect of your life.

How we work together

When it's time for our neurosurgery department to help you recover from a disorder, our greatest strength is in our team approach. Because so many physical systems are involved in neurological treatment, we depend on our colleagues for their specialized expertise.

Take for example Cushing's disease. In that disorder, a benign pituitary tumor over stimulates cortisol production. Because of the tumor's location, recovering from this neurological illness would require the cooperation of an:

• Endocrinologist
• ENT specialist
• Neuro oncologist
• Neurosurgeon and
• Radiology team

Your case is unique, so your diagnosis will determine who your team members are. But our doctors work in a cooperative, collegial environment, consulting frequently about the best route for your care.

Why choose UCI Health for neurosurgery?

Our neurosurgeons have outstanding fellowship training and deliver innovative, compassionate world-class treatment

The brain and spine are two of the most delicate areas of your body. Our surgeons deeply understand your anatomy, perform complex surgeries and offer methodical follow up.

If you experience any of the following, our neurosurgeons offer advanced consultation, diagnosis, and treatment:

• a brain tumor
• vascular disease
• movement disorder
• epilepsy
• spinal problems
• chronic pain
• traumatic brain and spine injuries
• or many other conditions

You benefit from the research we do at Orange County's only university medical center

Our neuroscientists' work paves the way for innovations that extend and improve your quality of life. You may also have access to clinical trials and new therapies long before they're available to the general public.

We promise to see patients with urgent problems (brain and spinal tumors, as well as cerebrovascular problems) within 24 hours

A number of conditions like spinal trauma, malignant brain tumors and stroke need quick attention. If you have an urgent neurological issue, call this special number, 855-557-1531, for a 24-hour response time. Do not use this number for medical emergencies or regular appointments.

If you have an emergency, call 911.

Deep-seated brain tumors and blood clots are no longer beyond our neurosurgeons' reach

UCI Health neurosurgeons now offer hope to patients with previously inoperable brain conditions. We are among the first in Southern California to use a sophisticated tool called BrainPath. The device enables us to navigate between the natural folds and neural structures in the brain without damaging anything.