Does a Neurosurgery Consult mean I’m getting signed up for surgery?

We often have patients who show up for their initial consultation with us saying, my doctor told me I need to see a neurosurgeon…but I do NOT want surgery! 

Although surgery is our specialty, a neurosurgeon’s goal should not be to cut and run (pardon the poor humor) but rather to best treat the whole patient, taking into account symptoms and imaging results and a patient’s history and outcome goals. 

During an initial consultation with Dr. Mulholland or Kylie, we will gather a patient’s medical history, perform a thorough physical exam, and closely examine previous imaging studies to create a full picture of the current problem. While there are some instances where urgent surgery may be necessary (often when a patient presents with significant &/or acute neurological decline), most of the time, we begin treatment by exploring conservative management options. Our wheelhouse has several nonsurgical treatment options, including physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, injections, medications, and bracing. 

Often patients can get long-term relief from these treatment modalities. Patients will follow up with us in the office at regular intervals to check in regarding their symptom improvement, progression, or flare-ups, as the case may be, and we can alter treatment accordingly. With a patient-centered approach, our goal is to individualize treatment plans, tailoring our care to meet patients where they are in their lives. Having a physician assistant like Kylie available to help optimize ongoing conservative options is a great way that we can offer quality patient care with maximal efficiency. Both Dr. Mulholland and Kylie believe their job is to improve patients’ quality of life, and while that sometimes means surgical intervention, we strive to leave that as our last resort. 

Want to learn more about what could be the best treatment options for you?

Explore our website or call our office to schedule your next appointment.