The mention of neurosurgery often conjures images of lengthy, complex operations and high-stakes risks, leaving many patients hesitant to address spine pain or neurological concerns out of fear. Much of what people believe about neurosurgery, however, is outdated.
Neurosurgeons from Advanced Neurosurgery Associates are challenging these misconceptions, revealing how the field has evolved and how Northside’s trademark patient-centered care has transformed the experience.
Myth: All neurosurgery is high risk and invasive
The perception that all neurosurgical procedures are highly invasive and risky no longer reflects today’s reality. Most procedures have evolved significantly, shifting toward greater precision and safety.
Dr. Matthew Hazzard, who emphasizes open communication with patients, addressed this misconception.
“There are some neurosurgical procedures that certainly are invasive and carry major risks, but this does not represent the large proportion of routine, minimally invasive procedures we perform with relatively low complication rates,” he said.
Dr. Christopher Banerjee, who specializes in the latest technologies and techniques for complex spine surgeries, has seen this evolution firsthand.
“The most commonly performed spine procedures are rather small and quick,” he said. “With advances in techniques and technology, we have the capabilities to access the brain and spine in minimally invasive ways, minimizing operative time and blood loss, which also helps reduce surgery-related complications.”
Myth: Neurosurgeons only treat brain conditions
Though dramatic brain surgeries come to mind for many people, most neurosurgical care centers on more common concerns — neck pain, back problems and nerve issues that affect everyday life. In fact, 90% of patients seen in a general neurosurgery practice present with issues involving the neck and back.
“Neurosurgeons are experts in the entire nervous system, including the brain, spine and peripheral nerves,” Dr. Hazzard said.
Dr. Harlan Bruner, who has extensive experience treating brain disease and peripheral nerve conditions, emphasized the breadth of spine care neurosurgeons provide.
“While brain surgery is an important part of neurosurgery, the majority of surgeries we perform are on the spine,” he said. “The scope of spine surgery performed by neurosurgeons is generally wider than that of our orthopedic colleagues. Spine surgeries we perform include scoliosis correction, treatment of herniated discs, spinal fusions and tumor removals.”
Myth: Neurosurgeons always recommend surgery
Perhaps no misconception creates more barriers to care than the fear that a visit to a neurosurgeon automatically leads to surgery. That assumption couldn’t be further from the truth.
“A vast majority of the patients we see in our office are either not surgical candidates or are simply not interested in surgical treatment options,” Dr. Hazzard said. “Most of our patient encounters involve educating patients on surgical versus nonsurgical options, so they are empowered to make informed decisions that align with their expectations and needs.”
Dr. Shashank Gandhi, whose philosophy of care is “less is more,” understands how uncertainty can overwhelm patients already struggling with pain and mobility challenges.
“Surgery is rarely our first option,” he said. “Before thinking about the operating room, we focus on a comprehensive, non-surgical approach. This often includes physical therapy to strengthen the spine and improve mobility, targeted spinal injections to reduce inflammation and pain, and appropriate medications to help manage symptoms.”
Myth: Neurosurgical techniques haven’t advanced much
Many patients aren’t aware of how rapidly neurosurgical techniques have evolved in recent years. What people may have heard just a few years ago may no longer reflect current capabilities.
“Neurosurgery is a rapidly changing field, with frequent advances,” Dr. Banerjee said. “Recent innovations have decreased the time it takes us to operate, the amount of blood a patient might lose, and incision length. A few decades ago, spine surgery had fewer tools in the toolbox, and patients might have endured difficult and lengthy surgeries. Today, the same problems — even complex conditions like scoliosis — can be treated with smaller surgeries and procedures.”
Moving forward without fear
Misconceptions about neurosurgery have kept some patients from seeking care that could significantly improve their quality of life. Today’s neurosurgical care emphasizes collaboration, education and minimally invasive solutions that help patients return to the work they love, the activities they enjoy and the confidence that comes with pain-free movement.
Understanding these realities empowers patients to have informed conversations with their health care providers and become active partners in their care.
Learn more about neurosurgery at Northside Hospital.
