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Article Archive Welcome to the online Article Archive of Neurosurgery Notes, the practice newsletter for Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. Click on the topics below to view list of related articles. Click on article headlines to view full text. You can also see our current issue and subscribe to Neurosurgery Notes for FREE by clicking the links to the left. ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) Aneurysms Artificial Disc Brain Surgery Carpal Tunnel Concussions Cranial Banding Craniosynostosis Deep Brain Stimulation Epilepsy Hyperhydrosis Neuroendovascular Surgery Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) Parkinson's Disease Physiatry Physical Therapy Pituitary Tumors Practice News & Innovations Spasticity Spinal Fusion Spinal Stenosis Spine Surgery Trigeminal Neuralgia Vagal Nerve Stimulator ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) Helping In The Search For An ALS Treatment Originally published Fall 1999 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates is playing an integral part in an innovative clinical trial to determine the efficacy of new drug, BDNF, in the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). click here for full story back to top Aneurysms Practice Neurosurgeon Is The First In NC To Use Flow-Diverting Technology To Treat Aneurysms Breakthrough Procedure Gives Hope To Patients With Large Aneurysms Originally published Fall 2011 Practice neurosurgeon Joe Bernard, Jr., MD, of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, was the first surgeon in North Carolina and one of the first surgeons in the country to implant the recently FDA-approved Pipeline Embolization Device (PED). The PED is the first device of its kind, using flow-diverting technology to treat unruptured large and giant aneurysms through the blood vessel. Full story Pioneering Procedure Used To Treat Aneurysm In Cartoid Artery Originally published Fall 1999 Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s deputy Ronnie Presnell now has a lower risk of stroke thanks to a stent implanted by neurosurgeon Craig VanDerVeer, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. A stent, which is usually used in combination with balloon angioplasty to open blocked arteries in the heart, was used to treat an aneurysm in Presnell’s carotid artery. click here for full story back to top Artificial Disc Artificial Disc Innovations Improving The Lives Of Patients With Degenerative Disc Disease Originally published Summer 2007 The advent of artificial spinal disc technology has opened new avenues of treatment for patients with degenerative disc disease. Since 2003, when Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates neurosurgeons implanted the first artificial disc in the Carolinas, our practice has remained a pioneer on both the local and national level in the field of artificial disc surgery. Full story New Artificial Disc Study Seeks To Expand Options For Patients With Degenerative Disc Disease Kineflex™ Cervical & Lumbar Artificial Disc Implants To Be Studied Originally published Spring 2006 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates continues to explore new innovations in spine surgery by participating in two new randomized clinical trials for the Kineflex cervical and lumbar artificial discs. Full story An Artificial Disc Was The Perfect Fit For Mike Mariano Originally published Spring 2006 Some say life begins at 40. Mike Mariano would probably agree. After living with intense back pain for 20 years, Mike underwent artificial disc surgery to replace his L5S1 disc, and felt immediate relief afterward. He refers to the procedure as his fortieth birthday present and says it completely changed his life. Full story Artificial Disc Surgery Now Available In Concord Originally published Spring 2005 The neurosurgeons of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates are now performing lumbar artificial disc surgery in Concord at Northeast Medical Center. The procedure was already available in Charlotte. The Charité™ Artificial Disc is the first device of its kind to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The artificial disc is designed to be an alternative to spinal fusion surgery. full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Implants The First Lumbar Artificial Disc In The Carolinas Originally published Winter 2005 On Thursday, November 18, 2004, neurosurgeon Dom Coric, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, performed the first implantation of a lumbar artificial disc in North or South Carolina. The Charité™ Artificial Disc is the first device of its kind to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The artificial disc, which is used to replace a damaged or worn spinal disc, is designed to be an alternative to spinal fusion surgery.full story Practice Neurosurgeon Is First In The Carolinas To Utilize Artificial Disc Device For Treatment Of Ruptured Discs Originally published Winter 2004 An innovative new surgical procedure utilizing an artificial disc to treat degenerative disc disease (ruptured disc) was performed for the first time in both North and South Carolina by Dom Coric, M.D., a neurosurgeon with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates in Charlotte. full story Artificial Disc May Replace Fusion As Treatment For Cervical Disc Herniations Originally published Summer 2003 The practice was selected as one of only 27 test sites in the country for the trial involving the Bryan® Cervical Disc System, an artificial disc designed to provide the motion and elastic characteristics of the natural cervical disc. click here for full story Brain Surgery From Trauma To Triumph: Providing Lifesaving Neurosurgical Care Originally published Spring 2011 Every trauma case is a race against time. Arriving at the best outcome possible requires not only specialized medical expertise, but also the highest level of teamwork and professionalism from the first responders to the hospital and surgical staff. The neurosurgeons of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates are proud to play a vital role in treating trauma patients in this region. Following are two different patient profiles about two young boys, each illustrating how all the pieces came together to result in triumph over tragedy. Full story A New Ally For Brain Cancer Patients: Nurse Navigator Will Help Coordinate Care Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates is pleased to welcome Renee Kelly, RN, as the first brain cancer nurse navigator for the practice. From the moment a patient is diagnosed with cancer, Renee will be available to answer questions, help schedule treatments, coordinate care and improve communication between specialists providing care and services including neurosurgeons, radiologists, pathologists and oncologists. Full story Defusing A Ticking Time Bomb Endoscopic Brain Surgery Saved This Young Woman’s Life Originally published Fall 2009 On June 17, 2008, a time bomb began ticking in Sandra Fleming’s brain. On that day, she was in an auto accident that totaled her car. Although her injuries from the wreck were not life threatening, the accident placed pressure on a colloid cyst that had most likely been in her brain since childhood. In the weeks following the accident, this caused spinal fluid to begin accumulating in her brain causing headaches, dizziness and blurry vision. Sandra had no idea a cyst existed and was completely unaware that she was in danger. Full story Cavernous Malformations - Precise Surgery Reverses Paralyzing Effects Of Large Vascular Lesion On The Brainstem Originally published Spring 2009 Djena Ross was an active, healthy mother until the summer of 2008, when she began suffering the crippling effects of a cavernous malformation in her brainstem. The vascular lesion had left her paralyzed. Neurosurgeons from Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates performed delicate surgery to remove the malformation. Now, after rehabilitation, Djena has returned to an active lifestyle. Full story Brain Trust:Bringing Cutting-Edge Brain Tumor Care To The Charlotte Region Originally published Winter 2008 As the primary provider of brain tumor services in the Charlotte region, Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates offers state-of-the-art treatment, participates in advanced research trials and coordinates patient support. full story Innovative Drug & Delivery Method May Revolutionize Treatment Of Brain Tumors Originally published Winter 2005 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates is participating in a groundbreaking brain tumor study which incorporates both an innovative drug and delivery method. The Phase III Randomized Evaluation of Convection-Enhanced Delivery of IL13-PE38QQR with Survival Endpoint (PRECISE) Trial is one of the largest and most comprehensive clinical trials conducted to date for recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). full story Racing Towards A More Promising Future For Cancer Patients Originally published Winter 2005 To help garner local support for brain tumor research efforts in this region, the practice established the Brain Tumor Fund of the Carolinas (BTFC). This year, the first Charlotte Criterium was held to generate awareness of brain tumors and contributions for the BTFC. This televised professional cycling event drew 30,000 people to uptown Charlotte to watch teams from 12 nations compete for the largest purse in Criterium racing. full story Brain Tumor Program Update Originally published Spring 2002 As the primary provider of brain tumor services in the Charlotte region, our practice coordinates state-of-the-art technical services, patient support and education along with advanced research trials. Here is an update of services now available through our brain tumor program. full story Current Brain Tumor Clinical Protocols Originally published Spring 2002 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, in cooperation with the Blumenthal Cancer Center at Carolinas Medical Center, is offering a number of clinical protocols for the treatment of patients with primary and metastatic brain tumors.full story A Progressive Brain Tumor Program In The Heart Of The Carolinas Originally published Fall 2001 National clinical trials, innovative treatment options, and unique neurosurgical expertise are all available to brain tumor patients in Charlotte. click here for full story Annual Neuroscience Symposium Focuses On Innovative Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment Originally published Summer 2001 The annual William R. Pitts Neuroscience Symposium and Memorial Lecture was held in Charlotte on May 1, 2001. This year’s scientific program focused on new advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors, and was held in the Carolinas Medical Center Auditorium. click here for full story Charlotte Brain Tumor Patient Is First In The Country To Receive Experimental Treatment Originally published Fall 1999 A new study is underway in Charlotte evaluating an experimental treatment of Glioblastoma, a type of incurable brain tumor. click here for full story back to top Carpal Tunnel Outpatient Surgery Provides Relief For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Originally published Fall 2000 People from every walk of life, from pianists and artists, to hairdressers and factory workers can be affected by carpal tunnel syndrome. Fortunately, there are several available treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome that can help remedy this painful condition. click here for full story Concussions Partnering With SunTrust Bank To Provide Free Concussion Testing For Student Athletes Originally published Spring 2011 For the fourth year in a row, SunTrust Bank and Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates have partnered to offer free ImPACT baseline concussion testing to 5,000 student athletes in Gaston, Mecklenburg, and Union counties. This cognitive testing, the same used by the NFL, NHL, MLB, and college sports programs, is performed at the start of each sport's season. If an athlete suffers a concussion during the season, the test is taken again and compared to the original baseline results. This can help determine when or if an athlete can safely return to play. Full story Concussion Recovery Dad Seeks Second Opinion To Protect Son After Concussion Originally published Spring 2009 Like most high school football players, Garret Blatnik loves to be in the game. But when a concussion put him on the sideline, his father, Tony, wanted to be sure he made a full recovery before getting back on the field. Garret plays football at Marvin Ridge High School in Waxhaw, NC. During practice in September of 2008, he had a collision during a play, which he still doesn’t remember. However, in the middle of the next play Garret just stopped in his tracks and appeared dazed. Full story Saving Lives With Free Concussion Tests Originally published Fall 2008 With three concussion-related deaths of student-athletes occurring in North Carolina this year, the importance of effective concussion management is more obvious than ever. Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates and SunTrust Bank are doing their part to ensure the safety of this region's young athletes by offering free concussion testing to 5,000 middle school and high school student-athletes in Mecklenburg, Gaston and Cabarrus counties. Full story The Carolina Sports Concussion Program Helps Soccer Phenom Make The Pros Originally published Spring 2008 When an athlete suffers a concussion, the greatest danger lies in returning to the field or court too soon and suffering a second, more debilitating or deadly, head injury. The Carolina Sports Concussion Program at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates can significantly reduce this danger by utilizing objective neurocognitive tests to determine if an athlete has fully recovered from a concussion. full story Carolina Sports Concussion Program Introducing A New Arena Of Concussion Management Originally published Summer 2007 At Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, we’re taking a major step forward in the treatment and management of sports concussions with the creation of the Carolina Sports Concussion Program. This is the first program of its kind in the region. Under the direction of board-certified physiatrist David Wiercisiewski, M.D., the goal of the Carolina Sports Concussion Program is to accurately diagnose and manage concussions in athletes 10 years of age and older. Full story Cranial Banding Abnormal Head Shape Screening Clinic Offered At Charlotte Office Originally published Summer 2000 Twice a month, our practice offers the screening clinic at the Charlotte office to assess infants with abnormal head shapes and determine if they are candidates for cranial bands or other forms of early interventional treatment including repositioning, neck exercises and, in rare cases, surgery. click here for full story back to top Craniosynostosis A New Endoscopic Technique For Treating Craniosynostosis Leads To Quicker Patient Recovery Originally published Spring 2002 Endoscopic technology now allows the neurosurgeons at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates to greatly reduce recovery time for patients undergoing treatment for craniosynostosis.full story Deep Brain Stimulation Deep Brain Stimulation Reducing Parkinson’s Tremor, Improving Quality Of Life Originally published Winter 2010 Tremor, or uncontrollable shaking, in the hand, arm or leg is a notable symptom in the early stages of Parkinson’s Disease. Experiencing tremor is what finally leads many patients to seek medical help when they have ignored other symptoms. When medications for treating tremor prove ineffective or present unacceptable side effects, deep brain stimulation (DBS) can be the answer. Full story Groundbreaking Deep Brain Stimulation Eliminates Essential Tremor Brain Mapping Technology Allows For Greater Precision Originally published Spring/Summer 2008 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates neurosurgeon Martin Henegar, M.D., recently performed Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) with brain mapping to treat Essential Tremor, a nerve disorder characterized by uncontrollable shaking in different parts or sides of the body. Epilepsy Epilepsy Surgery:An Underused, Life-Changing Treatment Originally published Fall 2010 While medication is usually the first step in the treatment of epilepsy, it is often not the most effective. In fact, for almost one-third of epilepsy patients, medicine cannot adequately control seizures. For many of these individuals, surgery could have a profound impact. An estimated 20,000 to 70,000 people in the United States are considered candidates for epilepsy surgery, yet less than 5,000 have surgery each year. full story A Minimally Invasive Solutions For Epilepsy Now Offered Originally published Spring 2002 For over 50% of patients who are not good candidates for resective surgery, implantation of a left vagal VNS may significantly improve seizure control. full story back to top Hyperhydrosis Hyperhydrosis Now Cured With Minimally Invasive Procedure Which Drastically Reduces Recovery Time For Patients Originally published Summer 2000 Hyperhydrosis, a condition which causes excessive, unpredictable sweating, is now curable using endoscopic sympathectomy. This minimally invasive procedure offers a dramatically shorter recovery time than traditional thoracic sympathectomy, which requires months of rehabilitation. click here for full story Endoscopic Sympathectomy Helped Golfer Austin Zeigler Get His Swing Back Originally published Summer 2000 Initially, Austin tried medication which proved ineffective. After a thorough explanation of the surgical options, Austin agreed to undergo an endoscopic sympathectomy. click here for full story Forms of Hyperhydrosis Originally published Summer 2000 Types of hyperhydrosis and their symptoms. click here for full story Non-Surgical Treatment Options For Hyperhydrosis Originally published Summer 2000 Conservative, non-surgical treatment is often suggested and recommended before considering surgical intervention for hyperhydrosis. click here for full story back to top Neuroendovascular Surgery New Intracranial Stent Used To Prevent Strokes Practice Neurosurgeon One Of The First In The Southeast To Use Wingspan™ Stent System Originally published Spring 2006 Joe Bernard, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, was one of the first physicians in the region to use a new, potentially lifesaving stent to open clogged arteries in the brain. If left untreated, such blockages can lead to a stroke. The new device, called the Wingspan™ Stent System, is the only device available in the U.S. for the treatment of intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) or blockages in the brain’s own blood vessels.Full story Endovascular Coiling Offers Minimally Invasive Option For Treating Unruptured Brain Aneurysms Originally published Summer 2005 A minimally invasive treatment option available through Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates is endovascular coiling. This procedure accesses the treatment area from within the blood vessel. The practice is the only neurosurgery group in the region, and one of only three in the Carolinas, performing the aneurysm coiling procedure.Full story Stent System Is Effective And Less Invasive In Preventing Stroke Originally published Summer 2005 Our Practice To Become Regional Training Site For Carotid Artery Stenting Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates has used stents to treat carotid artery disease for the past five years, and is the only neurosurgery group in the region performing this procedure. Full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Is Among The First In The Country To Offer New Treatment for AVMs Originally published Summer 2005 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates will be one of the first in the country, and one of only three sites in North Carolina, to offer Onyx® Liquid Embolic System, a new FDA-approved treatment for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Onyx is a sealant that blocks these abnormal connections between veins and arteries in the brain using minimally invasive endovascular techniques. Full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Involved With New FDA-Approved Stroke Treatment Originally published Fall 2004 The Merci® Retriever, an innovative new treatment for stroke, recently received FDA approval. Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates is proud to have been one of only two practices in the Carolinas and Virginia, and one of 10 sites on the entire East Coast, to participate in the clinical trial for the device. full story Advancements In Endovascular Neurosurgery Originally published Summer 2003 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates is playing a leading role in the advancement of endovascular neurosurgery in this region. Technological advances are being made in this field at a tremendous pace allowing more and more lesions to be treated with neuroendovascular therapy. click here for full story Lesions Previously Thought Inoperable Now Treated Locally With Neuroendovascular Surgery Originally published Fall 2000 Neuroendovascular surgery is an emerging specialty combining the skills of neurosurgery and interventional neuroradiology. These minimally invasive techniques have proven effective in the diagnosis and treatment of strokes, brain aneurysms, tumors, arterial venous malformations (AVMs), intracranial atherosclerosis, blocked carotid, vertebral and subclavian arteries, from inside the blood vessel. click here for full story Conditions Successfully Treated With Neuroendovascular Surgery Originally published Fall 2000 Following are a few examples of how neuroendovascular surgery is now making treatment possible for a variety of life-threatening conditions. click here for full story back to top Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): Its Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment Originally published Fall 2004 Hydrocephalus occurs when there is an excess accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. It can be caused by a variety of disorders affecting the brain and spinal cord. If the cause is idiopathic, meaning that it cannot be identified, the condition is commonly known as Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). click here for full story Introducing The Adult Hydrocephalus Specialty Clinic Originally published Fall 2004 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates recently established The Adult Hydrocephalus Specialty Clinic (AHSC) at its Edgehill Road office in Charlotte. The clinic offers the latest in diagnostic techniques to identify and treat adults suffering from Hydrocephalus, including Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). full story back to top Parkinson's Disease Surgical Options Increasingly Effective for Many Parkinson's Patients Originally published Fall 2000 Of the approximately 1 million people in the United States living with Parkinson’s disease, an increasing number are seeking surgical treatment for relief. This is due to advancements in surgical techniques as well as the fact that more patients are building up a resistance to medications which once proved effective for them. click here for full story Physiatry Pinpointing Nerve Problems: On-site Electrodiagnostic Medicine Delivers Accuracy And Convenience For Patients Originally published Spring 2009 The field of electrodiagnostic medicine offers effective testing options for determining the cause of muscle and nerve problems. Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates utilizes these tests, along with a full array of additional on-site diagnostic services, to provide greater convenience for patients. Full story Ultrasound Aids In Treatment Of Musculoskeletal And Peripheral Nerve Injuries Originally published Spring 2008 Ultrasound technology is now being utilized at our Concord & Huntersville offices to evaluate and treat musculoskeletal and peripheral nerve injuries. full story Expanded Nonsurgical Options & Rehabilitation Now Available At The Practice Two Physiatrists Join Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Originally published Fall 2005 Physiatrists David R. Wiercisiewski, M.D., and John A. Welshofer, M.D., have recently joined Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, both physicians have practiced in the Charlotte region for more than a decade. full story Physical Therapy Getting Back On Course With Our Golf Rehabilitation & Fitness Program Originally published Spring 2011 Many golfers spend a great deal of money on new equipment and lessons to improve their game. Yet, they don’t consider that their physical fitness is crucial to taking full advantage of these investments. Proper time spent on golf-specific physical conditioning can help improve performance, lower your handicap, and decrease the risk of injury. Full story Our Golf-Related Spine Rehab & Fitness Program Offers Focused Care Originally published Winter 2010 It was happening two or three times a day. Patients who were recovering from back injury or surgery were asking physical therapist Graham Claytor, MPT, if there were any special exercises that could help them get back on the golf course more quickly. This constant level of interest was the impetus for the creation of the Golf Fitness Program at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. Full story A Spring In His Step Our Physical Therapy Department Kept This 95-Year-Old Man On Track Originally published Winter 2009 At 95 years old, Albert Bradtke is not going to let his age, injuries or balance problems stop him. He just has too much to do. In recent years, Albert has enjoyed dancing, tennis, and exercising regularly at the YMCA. He even took a recent trip to Croatia. Although he has suffered from balance issues over the past decade, he credits physical therapy with keeping him active and out of the operating room. Full story Avoiding Surgery Through Physical Therapy: Our On-Site Services Provided Non-Surgical Relief For Hayes Thompson Originally published Fall 2008 When Hayes Thompson began experiencing debilitating back pain, he knew two things – he wanted lasting relief and he wanted to avoid surgery. Using the on-site physical therapy (PT) services at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, he found exactly what he wanted. Full story On-Site Physical Therapy Makes Treatment More Convenient For Patients Originally published Fall 2005 Graham Claytor, MPT, and Ryan Klomparens, MSR, PT, now offer on-site physical therapy services at our new Charlotte office. These licensed physical therapists work together with our physiatrists and neurosurgeons to review patient progress, exchange information, and share ideas that lead to optimal patient care. full story Pituitary Tumors A Rare Pituitary Tumor Was The Single Cause Of Multiple Health Problems Originally published Spring 2005 When Susan Jarrett went on her family vacation in the summer of 2004, she never expected how much a week at the beach would change her life. full story Pituitary Tumors: Their Symptoms & Treatment Originally published Spring 2005 Symptomatic pituitary tumors are uncommon. While more than 99% of pituitary tumors are benign, a pituitary tumor can cause problems due to its size, its production of excessive hormones, or because it causes the pituitary gland to become underactive. Because pituitary tumors can have such a wide range of effects on the body, they often present with what seem to be a long list of unrelated symptoms.full story Transsphenoidal Surgery Effective In Treatment Of Pituitary Tumors Originally published Spring 2002 For the majority of pituitary tumors, surgical care does not require a craniotomy. Instead, the preferred approach involves a transsphenoidal route (through the nose and across the sphenoid sinus of the face), resulting in no noticeable facial scar. The surgery involves some moderate facial discomfort, but is extremely well tolerated. full story Practice News & Innovations A New Addition To Our Concord Operation Introducing Wilson Daugherty, MD, PhD Originally published Fall 2011 We are proud to welcome Wilson Daugherty, MD, PhD, as he joins the physicians and staff of our Concord location in providing advanced neurosurgical care to this region. Full story Physiatrist Peter Bailey, MD, Joins Our Practice Originally published Fall 2010 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates welcomes physiatrist Peter W. Bailey, MD, to our practice. Dr. Bailey completed a fellowship in Interventional Spine & Musculoskeletal Medicine at The Smart Clinic in Sandy, Utah. full story Innovative Upright MRI® Impresses Patients and Physicians Originally published Fall 2010 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates recently introduced the first open and Upright MRI to the Charlotte region. This innovative scanner delivers diagnostic images of the spine that are unattainable by traditional MRI. “Referring physicians are pleased with the scanner’s ability to show patients in the upright, weight-bearing position, as well as flexion and extension, which no other scanner in the area can demonstrate,” said Bryan Harmon, RT, Manager of Imaging Services for Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. Many physicians and radiologists are pleasantly surprised with the amount of detail and clarity of the images this scanner provides, despite its open design. full story Helping In Haiti - Practice Physician Provides Care In Port-Au-Prince Originally published Spring 2010 From February 7 to 14, practice physician Samuel Chewning, MD traveled to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as a member of the North Carolina One Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT NC-1). Full story Welcoming A Respected Spine Surgeon: Samuel Chewning, Jr., M.D., Joins Our Team Originally published Fall 2009 Orthopaedic spine surgeon Samuel Chewning, Jr., M.D., has joined Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates at our Huntersville and Concord offices. A World Apart Pediatric Neurosurgery Team Delivers Valuable Care In Santo Domingo Originally published Winter 2009 In February, Scott McLanahan, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, led the Charlotte-based team of the International Hospital for Children (IHC) on the second pediatric neurosurgical mission to Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. The group went to provide much needed assistance to Dra. Sonia Fermin, the pediatric neurosurgeon of Robert Reid Cabral Children’s Hospital. Full story Practice Neurosurgeon Serves As Director On American Board Of Neurological Surgeons Originally published Winter 2008 Neurosurgeon Craig VanDerVeer, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates is currently serving as one of ten Directors on the American Board of Neurological Surgeons (ABNS). full story Physiatrist John Lesher, MD, MPH Joins Concord & Huntersville Offices Originally published Winter 2008 Fellowship-trained, board-certified interventional physiatrist John Lesher, MD, MPH, recently joined our Concord and Huntersville offices. full story New Surgery Center Offers Advanced Technology And Convenience For Patients Originally published Spring 2007 Carolina Center For Specialty Surgery, a joint effort between Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates and Carolinas Medical Center, offers a convenient, comfortable and safe alternative to having surgery at a hospital. This new facility, located at 1822 Brunswick Avenue in Charlotte, was designed specifically for elective outpatient and ambulatory surgical procedures. full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Opens New Charlotte Office & Expands Services Originally published Fall 2005 On October 31, 2005, Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates relocated its Charlotte office from Edgehill Road to a new building at the corner of Third Street and Baldwin Avenue. The practice’s administrative office and research department also moved to the new location.full story Expanded Nonsurgical Options & Rehabilitation Now Available At The Practice Two Physiatrists Join Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Originally published Fall 2005 Physiatrists David R. Wiercisiewski, M.D., and John A. Welshofer, M.D., have recently joined Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, both physicians have practiced in the Charlotte region for more than a decade. full story Practice Neurosurgeon Elected Vice President Of The Congress Of Neurological Surgeons Originally published Winter 2005 Anthony Asher, M.D, was elected Vice President of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) at the organization’s annual meeting held October 16-21 in San Francisco.full story Introducing The Adult Hydrocephalus Specialty Clinic Originally published Fall 2004 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates recently established The Adult Hydrocephalus Specialty Clinic (AHSC) at its Edgehill Road office in Charlotte. The clinic offers the latest in diagnostic techniques to identify and treat adults suffering from Hydrocephalus, including Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). full story Scott McLanahan, M.D. Elected To American Board Of Pediatric Neurosurgery Originally published Fall 2004 Practice neurosurgeon Scott McLanahan, M.D., was recently elected to the American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery (ABPNS). The nine-member board is the governing body for the certification and recertification of pediatric neurosurgeons. full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Holds Groundbreaking For New 52,000-Square-Foot Facility Originally published Summer 2004 Upon completion, the new building will allow the practice to consolidate its office on Edgehill Road, as well as the administrative office and research department, which are currently on Morehead Street. full story Addition Of Mobile “Short-Bore” MRI Means Greater Convenience And Comfort For Patients Originally published Summer 2004 For the added convenience of patients, and to enhance their continuity of care, Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates recently added in-house MRI services to the practice’s Edgehill Road and Ballantyne offices. full story Specialized Mid-Level Practitioners Add Efficiency And Continuity Of Care Originally published Summer 2004 Since the addition of the first physician assistant in 1997, mid-level practitioners continue to play vital roles at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. full story New Neurosurgeon Enhances Level Of Care At Our Rock Hill Office Originally published Winter 2004 Mark Smith, M.D., joins Michael Cowan, M.D., at our Rock Hill office in offering a complete range of neurosurgery procedures. full story. Neurosurgeon Trained In Complex Spine Disorders Joins Practice Originally published Winter 2004 Vinay Deshmukh, M.D., is the newest addition to our neurosurgical team. He recently completed a complex spine fellowship and is a graduate of the University of Florida School of Medicine. full story. New Ballantyne Office Opens Originally published Winter 2004 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates recently opened a new satellite office in the Ballantyne area. full story. Craniotomies Can Now Be Performed In Rock Hill Originally published Winter 2004 A dedicated surgical ICU for neurosurgical patients, a clinical nurse specialist dedicated to neurosurgery, and the addition of an advanced BrainLab surgical device, have made it possible for the neurosurgeons of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates to treat brain tumors, vascular abnormalities, and other intra-cranial targets in Rock Hill. full story. Practice Physician Develops Online Journal For Neuro-Oncology Originally published Spring 2001 An online journal called the Select Review of Neuro-Oncology www.neurosurgery.org/tumor/selectreview/ has been developed under the direction of Anthony Asher, M.D., F.A.C.S., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. click here for full story Mark P. Redding, M.D., Joins Board of North Carolina Spine Society Originally published Spring 2001 Mark Redding, M.D., of our Concord location, was recently named to the board of the North Carolina Spine Society.click here for full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Physician Named Chief Of Neurosurgery At Presbyterian Hospital Originally published Summer 2000 E. Hunter Dyer, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, was recently appointed Chief of Neurosurgery for Presbyterian Hospital. click here for full story Neurosurgeon Joe D. Bernard, Jr., M.D., Joins Practice Originally published Summer 2000 Dr. Bernard is a graduate of the University of Louisville School of Medicine and completed his neurosurgical residency at the University of Tennessee, Memphis. click here for full story Spine Specialist Joins Practice Originally published Winter 1999 Spine specialist, Dom Coric, M.D., specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions such as spinal trauma, disc disease, spinal tumors, degenerative diseases of the spine, spinal cord injuries and congenital spinal malformations. click here for full story The William R. Pitts Foundation - Established To Make a Difference Originally published Winter 1999 As founder of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, the late William Reid Pitts, M.D., was a caring physician, respected colleague, and trusted friend. The goal of the William R. Pitts Foundation is to support research and education in the field of neurosurgery. click here for full story Neurosurgeon Michael Cowan, M.D., Joins Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Originally published Fall 1999 Michael Cowan, M.D., studied thoracoscopic spine surgery for treatment of thoracic disc herniations and other spinal disorders. According to Dr. Cowan, this procedure allows patients to leave the hospital as early as the next day after surgery. click here for full story back to top Spasticity Intrathecal Baclofen Pump Is An Effective Option For Treating Spasticity Originally published Spring 2001 Since 1990, Scott McLanahan, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates has offered both neurosurgical and surgical options for managing spasticity in both children and adults. click here for full story Spinal Fusion Complex Spinal Fusion Is Used To Prevent Paralysis In Patient With Gorham’s Disease Originally published Spring 2006 In April of 2005, Malcolm Brelsford was suffering from a spinal staph infection that had left him unable to walk and almost completely paralyzed in his legs. The infection was causing the bones of his spine to deteriorate, and if left to progress would have resulted in fractures in his spine and eventual permanent paralysis. "When I was consulted, Malcolm's spinal infection was severe, his spine was gradually becoming more crooked, and there was pressure on his spinal cord," said Dr. Deshmukh. “We needed to clean out the infection and essentially rebuild his spinal column with screws, rods, and spinal fusion.” Full story Condition Profile:Gorham’s Disease Originally published Spring 2006 With fewer than 200 cases reported in the medical literature, Gorham’s Disease is an extremely rare bone disorder. This condition is characterized by bone loss (osteolysis) often associated with swelling or abnormal blood vessel growth (angiomatous proliferation). Full story Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion Got Sandra Back On Her Feet The Day After Surgery Originally published Spring 2005 Sandra underwent minimally invasive Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF), an alternative to traditional, open spinal decompression and fusion. As with most minimally invasive procedures, the primary advantage is faster recovery for the patient. full story If Effective, OP-1 Putty May Drastically Reduce Patient Recovery Time By Eliminating Use Of Autograft In Spine Fusions Originally published Summer 2003 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates was selected as one of only 24 sites in the United States and Canada, and the only one in North Carolina, for an innovative new clinical trial. The study will compare the efficacy of OP-1 Putty to illiac crest autograft in uninstrumented posterolateral lumbar spine fusions. click here for full story Bone Graft Alternatives Lead To Shorter Recovery Times Originally published Spring 2001 Traditionally, bone from a patient’s own iliac crest was used to complete a spinal fusion. Today, we can now utilize banked bone as an alternative. This allows patients to avoid the pain and inconvenience of a donor incision, which often causes pain greater than that of the spinal incision itself. click here for full story Spinal Stenosis Taking A Shot At Avoiding Surgery Epidural Injections Help Ed Karp To Manage The Pain Of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Originally published Winter 2008 Ed Karp has lived with lumbar spinal stenosis for nearly a decade. The intense pain this condition causes in his left calf can make it difficult to walk. Yet thanks to periodic epidural injections, physiatrist John Welshofer, MD, has helped Ed manage the pain and avoid surgery for 10 years. full story Minimally Invasive Laminectomy Relieves Lumbar Spinal Stenosis With Faster Patient Recovery Time Originally published Spring 2004 Through the use of endoscopic technology, Margaret underwent a minimally invasive lumbar laminectomy, returned home the same day, and felt immediate relief. Click here for the full story Lumbar Spinal Stenosis - The “Unknown” Spine Disorder Originally published Winter 1999 According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, medical professionals should be aware of a degenerative condition known as Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) when treating older adults for lower back pain. click here for full story back to top Spine Surgery Lifesaving Procedure For Treating Cervical Spinal Infection Developed By Practice Neurosurgeon Case Featured In Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine Originally published Fall 2011 There is a new, minimally invasive option for treating cervical spine infections, developed by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates neurosurgeon Vinay Deshmukh, MD, FACS, as described in the August 2010 issue of Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine. This approach is much less invasive and requires no hardware or spinal fusion. Full story Preventing Paralysis And Death By Striking Quickly Against A Spinal Infection Originally published Fall 2011 Spinal infections are challenging to diagnose because back pain is usually the only initial symptom. When other symptoms do emerge, such as limb weakness, fever, and heart arrhythmia, their onset is very rapid. The following case study is a prime example of how quickly a spinal infection can become critical and demonstrates the need for decisive action when it comes to spinal infections. Full story Direct Lateral Spinal Fusions:A New Minimally Invasive Approach Originally published Fall 2010 As Terri disembarked from a recent cruise, you would never know that the 53-year-old female was recovering from spine surgery. Just a few weeks prior, she had an XLIF® procedure, also known as a direct lateral fusion. This minimally invasive spine surgery results in reduced surgical times, less tissue damage, shorter hospital stays, minimal scarring, and a faster return to normal activities. full story Less Waiting, Faster Relief Spine Patients Are Evaluated And Have Surgery Within One Week Originally published Fall 2009 At Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, we’re committed to helping patients with acute spine problems get the relief they need as quickly as possible. Below are two examples of patients who had suffered for months and were then examined and treated in just days after they first contacted our practice. Full story Helping Patients Recover From Spinal Fractures Advanced Options Significantly Reduce Pain Originally published Fall 2009 Nearly one million vertebral compression fractures occur every year in the United States. These fractures can be caused by osteoporosis, tumors, or trauma and are most often treated by immobilizing the spine in a brace for up to three months. When a brace proves ineffective, many patients with this condition find relief from one of two innovative procedures: kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty. Full story Preventing Paralysis Young Teacher Undergoes Successful Spinal Tumor Surgery Originally published Winter 2009 Dr. Kim observed that Christie dragged her right leg when she tried to walk and she had lost sensation in her feet to the point that she couldn’t tell whether or not she was wearing shoes. The blockage of spinal fluid caused by the tumor resulted in a condition called syringomyelia. Christie’s entire spinal cord had stretched and thinned down to the size of a shoelace. Full story The Edge Of Innovation Nucleus Replacement Technology Originally published Fall 2008 Our doctors were the first in the Carolinas to use an artificial disc, as an alternative to spinal fusion, to treat degenerative disc disease (DDD). Unlike spinal fusion, spine arthroplasty technology, such as the artificial disc, has allowed surgeons to relieve pain while preserving motion for patients and protecting adjacent disc levels. Full story Patients Find Alternatives To Spinal Fusion Surgery By Seeking A Second Opinion Originally published Spring 2008 Chuck Cloninger of Asheville and Robert Bass of Huntersville know the value of seeking a second medical opinion. They were both told that a spinal fusion was the only option to relieve their conditions and both found fusion alternatives at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. full story From “Unbearable” To “Pain-Free” In One Afternoon We Helped Developer Mel Graham Overcome A Ruptured Disc Originally published Summer 2007 Mel Graham doesn’t like to slow down. When the intense pain of a ruptured disc stopped him in his tracks, Graham, nephew of evangelist Billy Graham and president of a real estate development and investment company, turned to Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates. Full story Time And Expertise Make The Difference In Patients Recovering From Traumatic Injury Originally published Spring 2007 Quinteris Long was 14 years old when he tried a flip on a backyard trampoline and landed on the back of his neck. Right away, he noticed he could not move his arms or his legs. At the hospital, his family was told that he had a 50% chance of walking again. Remarkably, thanks to the speed in which he got to the hospital and the access to state-of-the-art care, he was able to start in his first JV basketball game just six months later. Full story X Stop® System Is A Less Invasive Alternative For Treating Spinal Stenosis The FDA-approved X STOP® system is a titanium implant that fits between the spinous processes of the symptomatic lumbar levels of the spine to relieve the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis. The procedure does not require removal of bone or soft tissue, does not result in fusion, and is completely reversible. Full Story New Artificial Disc Study Seeks To Expand Options For Patients With Degenerative Disc Disease Kineflex™ Cervical & Lumbar Artificial Disc Implants To Be Studied Originally published Spring 2006 Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates continues to explore new innovations in spine surgery by participating in two new randomized clinical trials for the Kineflex cervical and lumbar artificial discs. Full story An Artificial Disc Was The Perfect Fit For Mike Mariano Originally published Spring 2006 Some say life begins at 40. Mike Mariano would probably agree. After living with intense back pain for 20 years, Mike underwent artificial disc surgery to replace his L5S1 disc, and felt immediate relief afterward. He refers to the procedure as his fortieth birthday present and says it completely changed his life. Full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Implants The First Lumbar Artificial Disc In The Carolinas Originally published Winter 2005 On Thursday, November 18, 2004, neurosurgeon Dom Coric, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, performed the first implantation of a lumbar artificial disc in North or South Carolina. The Charité™ Artificial Disc is the first device of its kind to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The artificial disc, which is used to replace a damaged or worn spinal disc, is designed to be an alternative to spinal fusion surgery.full story Practice Neurosurgeon Is First In The Carolinas To Utilize Artificial Disc Device For Treatment Of Ruptured Discs Originally published Winter 2004 An innovative new surgical procedure utilizing an artificial disc to treat degenerative disc disease (ruptured disc) was performed for the first time in both North and South Carolina by Dom Coric, M.D., a neurosurgeon with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates in Charlotte. full story Why A Neurosurgeon Is The Best Choice For Spine Treatment Originally published Summer 2003 Neurosurgeons are usually associated with treating brain injuries and disorders. However, in most cases, a neurosurgeon can provide the highest level of expertise when it comes to treating spine disorders. That's because neurosurgeons actually complete more spinal surgery training than any other specialty and are the only physicians who treat the entire spine. click here for full story Artificial Disc May Replace Fusion As Treatment For Cervical Disc Herniations Originally published Summer 2003 The practice was selected as one of only 27 test sites in the country for the trial involving the Bryan® Cervical Disc System, an artificial disc designed to provide the motion and elastic characteristics of the natural cervical disc. click here for full story Life-Changing Spine Techniques Reach From Concord To Rock Hill Originally published Fall 2001 Our neurosurgeons have remained at the forefront of developing and implementing the latest advancements in the treatment of spinal disorders. click here for full story Concord Oncologist Finds It’s A Small World When It Comes To Getting Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Originally published Fall 2001 With the help of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates and Northeast Medical Center, oncologist Richard F. Williams, MD, PhD, was able to undergo a minimally invasive operation called cervical microendoscopic discectomy (MED) without ever leaving Concord. click here for full story Spine Surgery Gets Triathlete Back In The Race Originally published Fall 2001 Just eight months after he underwent a posterior lumbar interbody fusion, Frank Bates completed an Olympic triathlon in two hours and fifty minutes. click here for full story Endoscopic Disctectomy Surgery Proved to be an Ace in the Hole for Tim Hodge Originally published Summer 2001 At the age of 40, Tim Hodge had never had surgery or hit a hole-in-one. Then within a two week period, he did both. click here for full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Surgeon Is One Of First In The Country To Offer Microendoscopic Discectomy Surgery To Correct Cervical Disease Originally published Winter 1999 Tim Adamson, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates has recently developed a new form of microendoscopic discectomy surgery for correction of cervical disc disease. This technique significantly reduces the pain and recovery time usually associated with herniated disc surgery of the cervical area by decompressing the nerve root. click here for full story New Cervical Procedure Helps Charlotte Obstetrician Make His Rounds (On and Off the Golf Course) Originally published Winter 1999 John Allbert, M.D., had planned to undergo traditional microsurgery to correct his cervical condition, when he learned that he was a candidate for a new microendoscopic procedure developed by Tim Adamson, M.D. click here for full story back to top Trigeminal Neuralgia Effective Treatment Options For Trigeminal Neuralgia Originally published Summer 2001 Trigeminal Neuralgia or Tic Douloureux is a disorder of the fifth cranial (trigeminal) nerve that causes episodes of intense, stabbing, electric shock-like pain in the areas of the face where the branches of the nerve are distributed - lips, eyes, nose, scalp, forehead, upper jaw, and lower jaw. click here for full story Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Trigeminal Neuralgia Study Originally published Summer 2001 In an effort to assess response to various therapies here in Charlotte, Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates conducted chart reviews and patient contacts were performed to evaluate patients treated in our clinic over the last four to five years. click here for full story back to top Vagal Nerve Stimulator Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates Surgeon Implants First Vagal Nerve Stimulator In North Carolina For Treating Depression Originally published Fall 2005 The first vagal nerve stimulator (VNS) implant for Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD) in North Carolina was recently placed in a local patient by Michael Heafner, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates and John Blumer, M.D., of Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates. full story A Minimally Invasive Solutions For Epilepsy Now Offered Originally published Spring 2002 For over 50% of patients who are not good candidates for resective surgery, implantation of a left vagal VNS may significantly improve seizure control. full story back to top |
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