 What is a Neurosurgeon?
A neurosurgeon is a physician that specializes in the treatment of diseases and conditions related to the nervous system. The nervous system is an all-inclusive term that encompasses the spine and spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the brain. Neurosurgeons complete four years of college, four years of medical school, and then undertake a residency in neurosurgery lasting six to seven years. Some neurosurgeons then choose to undergo additional fellowship training in a subspecialty of the field, gaining additional experience in specific areas such as spine surgery, vascular and skull base neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery, surgery for pain, and non-invasive stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife). Dr. Kraus’ fellowship in neurovascular-skull base surgery was completed at the prestigious Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona.
In his capacity as a neurosurgeon, Dr. Kraus treats conditions that occur in the following areas:
- Brain (aneurysms, hemorrhages, tumors (benign and malignant))
- Cervical spine (disks, trauma, tumors)
- Thoracic spine (disks, trauma, tumors)
- Lumbar spine (disks, trauma, tumors)
- Sacral spine (trauma, tumors)
- Peripheral nerves (compressions, lacerations)
- Carpal tunnel
- Ulnar nerves
- Brachial plexus
- Lumbosacral plexus
Neurosurgeons such as Dr. Kraus are extremely meticulous, conscientious, and passionate about their work. Many seek certification by the American Board of Neurological Surgeons (ABNS). To obtain ABNS certification the physician must undertake an educational program that, when completed, employs comprehensive written and oral examinations to assess the individual’s knowledge, skills and experience. Satisfactory completion of this process is intended to assure the public of the surgeon’s capacity to provide quality neurosurgical care. |
