What Is Neurosurgery?

November 25, 2025

When you hear the word neurosurgery, you might think immediately of brain surgery. While brain surgery is part of it, neurosurgery covers much more than that. In simple terms, neurosurgery is the medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the brain, spine, and nervous system. That means neurosurgeons care for everything from brain tumors and spinal injuries to pinched nerves and strokes.

A neurosurgeon is a doctor who has spent years studying one of the most complex systems in the human body — the nervous system — and how it connects to everything we do. However, despite the name, not every neurosurgical treatment involves an operation. Many neurosurgeons use nonsurgical or minimally invasive techniques, like image-guided procedures or targeted pain therapies, to help patients manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Neurosurgery plays an important role in helping people recover from serious injuries or chronic conditions. For example, if someone has a herniated disc pressing on a nerve and causing pain or weakness, a neurosurgeon can relieve that pressure and help restore movement. For patients with brain disorders, such as epilepsy or certain movement disorders, advanced surgical treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and improve daily function.

Neurosurgery is about more than just the brain — it’s about helping people regain their strength, mobility, and independence when the nervous system is affected.

At Presbyterian Neurosurgery, our neurosurgery team combines advanced technology with compassionate care to create personalized treatment plans for every patient. Whether you need a consultation, a second opinion, or ongoing care, we’re here to help you find relief and get back to living your life.

You can find out more about our programs and locations we serve at phs.org/neurosurgery.