Unfilled Neurovascular Surgery Positions

What is a Neurovascular Surgery?

Neurovascular surgery is a specialized field of surgery that involves the treatment of conditions affecting the blood vessels and nerves of the brain and spinal cord. This type of surgery is performed to treat conditions such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), cavernous angiomas, stroke, and other conditions that affect the blood vessels of the brain and spinal cord. The goal of neurovascular surgery is to restore normal blood flow to the affected area and to prevent further damage to the nervous system. The procedure may involve the use of advanced imaging techniques, micro-surgical instrumentation and techniques, and other specialized tools and approaches to ensure safe and effective treatment of these conditions.

What does a neurovascular surgeon do?

A neurovascular surgeon is a medical specialist who performs surgical procedures to treat conditions that affect the blood vessels and nerves of the brain and spinal cord. They work to diagnose and treat conditions such as aneurysms, brain tumors, arteriovenous malformations, and other conditions that can cause damage to the brain or spinal cord. Neurovascular surgeons also work to help prevent and manage stroke, which is a major cause of disability and death in the United States. They use advanced techniques and surgical tools to provide the best possible outcomes for their patients.

How to become a neurovascular surgeon?

Here are typical steps to become a neurovascular surgeon:

1. Complete a Bachelor’s degree: While pursuing a Bachelor’s degree, students are required to take science-related courses such as biology, chemistry, and physics.

2. Completion of Medical School: After earning a Bachelor’s degree, medical school is the next step to become a neurovascular surgeon. Medical school is a four-year program that involves two years of classroom study to learn the fundamentals of medicine, and the remaining two years are spent performing clinical rotations.

3. Residency Program: After completing medical school, neurovascular surgeons are required to complete a residency program in neurosurgery. A neurosurgery residency typically takes five to seven years.

4. Fellowship Completion: After completing the residency, the student must undergo a fellowship program which is specific to neurovascular surgery. A neurovascular surgery fellowship typically takes one to two years.

5. Licensing: To practice as a neurovascular surgeon, a medical license is required. The criteria for licensure vary from state to state.

6. Certification: Certification is not required by law but is highly recommended. The certification is given by the American Board of Neurological Surgery (ABNS) and requires passing an exam.

After completing all the steps above, one can become a certified neurovascular surgeon.

Common Neurovascular Surgery Procedures:

• Carotid Endarterectomy: This is a procedure that involves removing plaque build-up in the carotid arteries (the arteries that supply blood to the brain) in order to prevent strokes.
• Aneurysm Repair: This refers to repair of enlarged or ruptured blood vessels in the brain or other parts of the body.
• Spinal Fusion Surgery: This is a procedure that involves fusing the vertebrae together in the spine to prevent movement in order to alleviate pain and improve stability.
• Brain Tumor Surgery: This is a surgical procedure that aims to remove brain tumors, either partially or in full.
• Peripheral Nerve Surgery: This involves surgery on the peripheral nerves in the body, which are responsible for sending signals from the brain to the muscles, organs, and tissues.
• Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery: This is a procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor.
• Microvascular Decompression Surgery: This is a procedure that involves relieving pressure on the cranial nerves, which can help alleviate pain.
• Vascular Bypass Surgery: This is a procedure that involves rerouting blood flow around blockages in the arteries or veins, in order to restore proper blood flow.
• Decompressive Craniectomy: This is a procedure that involves removing a part of the skull to relieve pressure on the brain, typically in emergency situations such as traumatic brain injury.
• Sympathectomy: This involves the surgical removal or modification of the sympathetic nerves in the body, which play an important role in regulating blood pressure and heart rate. It is typically used to treat conditions such as hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and Raynaud’s disease.

How long does it take to become a neurovascular surgeon?

To become a neurovascular surgeon, you will need to complete undergraduate and medical school, a residency in neurosurgery, and a neurovascular surgery fellowship. This process can take up to 14 years or more after completing high school.

How much does a neurovascular surgeon make?

We do not have access to the latest salary statistics of a neurovascular surgeon. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for surgeons, which includes neurovascular surgeons, was $409,665 in May 2022. However, the salary of a neurovascular surgeon greatly depends on their experience and skills, the type of employer, and their location. Top earners in this field can earn over $500,000 or more per year, while those starting a career in this field may earn less than $200,000 annually.