A neurologist is a specialist who diagnoses, treats and manages conditions that affect your nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves). A neurologist doesn’t perform surgery.
A neurosurgeon diagnoses and treats nervous system conditions through both surgical and nonsurgical therapies.
If you have a medical condition or injury that affects your nervous system, you may see a neurologist for evaluation and diagnosis. If your neurologist thinks your condition requires or may benefit from surgery, you’ll meet with a neurosurgeon for further medical advice and surgical treatment. For patients afflicted with a brain, spinal cord or peripheral nerve disorder, these specialist roles are in fact complementary when seeking treatment.
A neurosurgeon is a highly skilled medical professional with specialized training in diagnosing and treating conditions that impact the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Their expertise allows them to perform surgical procedures to address these conditions, but they also offer a range of nonsurgical treatment options. In most cases, neurosurgeons exhaust all available nonoperative treatments, such as medication, steroid injections, and physical therapies, before considering surgical intervention. Their goal is to provide comprehensive care and explore the most effective and least invasive approaches for each patient’s specific needs.
Dr. Darakchiev is skilled in diagnosing and treating a variety of brain, spine and peripheral nerve disorders. To schedule an appointment, please call 631-690-9080.