The brain, spinal cord, and neurons form the nervous system and are essential for the proper function of the Human body.

According to a study by the World Health Organization, 1 in 6 people will face some sort of neurological problem in their lifetime. It is estimated that almost 1 billion people are currently suffering from neurological problems.

Dr. Puneet Rana from Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida, visited the office of Vaidam Health and had a one-on-one session with the entire team to discuss how cutting-edge technology is used to manage and diagnose these neurological conditions.

Important Insights from the Session

Main Concepts of Neurology

According to Dr. Puneet, there are 2 main concepts of neurology mentioned below:

  • Lateralisation: The brain is divided into two hemispheres. When one side of the brain becomes dominated by the other, that scenario is referred to as lateralisation.
  • Localisation: The process of determining the cause of symptoms and whether they are neuroanatomically plausible.

These are both concepts used to understand how brain functions are organised.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Treatment for Neurological Complications

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), is a procedure that involves implanting electrodes into specific areas of the brain. The reasons for performing this procedure are to treat Neurological disorders like Idiopathic Parkinson's, Essential Tremor, Dystonia, and Anterior Thalamic Seizures.

Epilepsy and Its Surgery Criteria

Dr. Puneet explained his approach to treating epilepsy, saying that not all epilepsy cases need surgery; it is when a patient is not responding to the medications. Even in the case of surgery, several aspects are considered beforehand, such as the patient should be an adult and no retardation signs should exist.

Minimal Invasive CVJ Surgery

Conditions affecting the craniovertebral junction (CVJ), the area where the skull meets the spine, are treated using minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Scoliosis Treatment

According to Dr. Puneet, the most compatible age for males to undergo scoliosis surgery is 18 and for females, 16. He also advised that scoliosis surgery in children should be avoided as it can potentially impact height growth.

He added that HOX genes play an important role in the development and patterning of the vertebral column during embryonic development, which influences the normal morphology and alignment of the spine.

Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

It is a type of treatment used primarily for epilepsy and depression.

Diagnosis of Neurological Complication

3 Tesla (3T) MRI Scanner for Better Delineation

The doctor also explained that a 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanner is the best choice for the accurate diagnosis of any neurological complication present as its magnetic field strength is higher and produces a better image.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

It is a brain evaluation test that involves placing electrodes on the scalp to check the electrical activity of the brain. It is painless and usually takes 20-30 minutes.

Video EEG

A non-invasive procedure that records brain waves and a video of a patient's actions at the same time.

To sum up

With nearly 1 billion people worldwide affected by neurological disorders, it is crucial to find new solutions and effective strategies. The session highlighted the advancements in neurology & neurosurgery which can improve patient care and the quality of life for those dealing with these conditions.