Patient Resources

Conditions We Treat A-Z

Achondroplasia is a bone growth disorder that causes disproportionate dwarfism. Dwarfism is defined as a condition of short stature as an adult. People with achondroplasia are short in stature with a normal sized torso and short limbs. It’s the most common type of disproportionate dwarfism.The disorder occurs in approximately 1 in 25,000 live births. It’s equally common in males and females.

For More Information: Pediatric-Neurosurgery

An acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous growth that develops on the eighth cranial nerve. Also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve, it connects the inner ear with the brain and has two different parts. One part is involved in transmitting sound; the other helps send balance information from the inner ear to the brain. Acoustic neuromas -- sometimes called vestibular schwannomas or neurilemmoma -- usually grow slowly over a period of years. Although they do not actually invade the brain, they can push on it as they grow. Larger tumors can press on nearby cranial nerves that control the muscles of facial expression and sensation. If tumors become large enough to press on the brain stem or cerebellum, they can be deadly.

For More Information:

Acromegaly is a disorder that occurs when your body makes too much growth hormone (GH). Produced mainly in the pituitary gland, GH controls the physical growth of the body. In adults, too much of this hormone causes bones, cartilage, body organs, and other tissues to increase in size. Common changes in appearance include enlarged or swollen nose, ears, hands, and feet.

For More Information: Pituitary Tumor Program

An adenoma is a benign tumor of epithelial tissue with glandular origin, glandular characteristics, or both. Adenomas can grow from many glandular organs, including the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, thyroid, prostate, and others. Some adenomas grow from epithelial tissue in nonglandular areas but express glandular tissue structure. Although adenomas are benign, they should be treated as pre-cancerous. Over time adenomas may transform to become malignant, at which point they are called adenocarcinomas. Most adenomas do not transform. However, even though benign, they have the potential to cause serious health complications by compressing other structures and by producing large amounts of hormones in an unregulated, non-feedback-dependent manner. Some adenomas are too small to be seen macroscopically but can still cause clinical symptoms.

For More Information: Pituitary Tumor Program

Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia. No cure exists, but medications and management strategies may temporarily improve symptoms.
It is a progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. A medical diagnosis must be obtained through neuropsychological testing.
Brain cell connections and the cells themselves degenerate and die, eventually destroying memory and other important mental functions. Memory loss and confusion are the main symptoms.
No cure exists, but medications and management strategies may temporarily improve symptoms.

For More Information:

Astrocytomas are a type of brain tumor. They develop in star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes, which form part of the tissue that protects the nerve cells in your brain and spinal cord. Astrocytomas are classified by their grade. Grade 1 and grade 2 astrocytomas grow slowly and are benign, meaning they’re not cancerous. Grade 3 and grade 4 astrocytomas grow faster and are malignant, which means they’re cancerous. An anaplastic astrocytoma is a grade 3 astrocytoma. While they’re rare, they can be very serious if left untreated. Keep reading to learn more about anaplastic astrocytomas, including their symptoms and the survival rates of people who have them.

For More Information:

A brain aneurysm is a bulging area within the wall of an artery that supplies the brain. In most cases, brain aneurysms do not produce symptoms.

In some cases, the aneurysm may cause symptoms by pushing on other areas of the brain. Depending on the size of the aneurysm and the area involved, these symptoms can include headaches, neck pain, blurred vision and/or speech changes.

When a brain aneurysm ruptures, there is bleeding within the brain. Symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm come on suddenly and include a severe, sudden headache that is different from other headaches an individual has experienced.

For More Information:

Chiari malformation (CM) is a structural defect in the cerebellum, characterized by a downward displacement of one or both cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum (the opening at the base of the skull). CMs can cause headaches, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, dizziness, neck pain, unsteady gait, poor hand coordination, numbness and tingling of the hands and feet, and speech problems.[3] Less often, people may experience ringing or buzzing in the ears, weakness, slow heart rhythm, or fast heart rhythm, curvature of the spine (scoliosis) related to spinal cord impairment, abnormal breathing, such as central sleep apnea, characterized by periods of breathing cessation during sleep, and, in severe cases, paralysis.[3]

For More Information:

An arteriovenous fistula, is an abnormal connection of vessels in the tissues around the brain or spinal cord in which one or more arteries are directly connected to one or more veins or venous spaces called sinuses. Arteries carry blood from the heart to the tissues, and veins take blood back from the tissues to the heart. In a DAVF, there is a direct connection between one or more arteries and veins or sinuses which gives rise to many problems. DAVFs differ from arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in that AVMs are found within the tissue of the brain or spinal cord, but DAVFs are found in the coverings of the brain or spinal cord, such as the dura mater or arachnoid. The most serious problem associated with DAVFs is that they transfer high-pressure arterial blood into the veins or venous sinuses that drain blood from the brain or spinal cord. This results in an increase in the pressure of the venous system around the brain or spinal cord.

For More Information: Neurosurgical Spine Program

Arteriovenous malformation is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, bypassing the capillary system. This vascular anomaly is widely known because of its occurrence in the central nervous system (usually cerebral AVM), but can appear in any location. Although many AVMs are asymptomatic, they can cause intense pain or bleeding or lead to other serious medical problems.

AVMs are usually congenital and belong to the RASopathies. The genetic transmission patterns of AVMs are incomplete, but there are known genetic mutations (for instance in the epithelial line, tumor suppressor PTEN gene) which can lead to an increased occurrence throughout the body.

For More Information:

Astrocytoma is the most common a type of glioma tumor that can develop in the brain and spinal cord. It’s more common in men than women and most often shows up after age 45. There are several types of astrocytoma, and some grow faster than others.

They get their name from astrocytes, the star-shaped cells where they form in the brain. About 50% of primary brain tumors are astrocytomas.

For More Information:

Astrocytomas are the most common type of glioma. This type of glioma develops from glial cells called astrocytes, most often in the cerebrum (the large, outer part of the brain), but also in the cerebellum (the lower, back part of the brain).

About half of childhood brain tumors are astrocytomas. They are most common in children between the ages of 5 and 8.

They can be slow-growing (low grade, Grade I or II) or fast-growing (high grade, Grade III or IV). Most astrocytomas in children (80%) are low grade. Sometimes they spread to the spine.

For More Information: Pediatric Neuro Oncology

Atypical Parkinsonian disorders are progressive diseases that present with some of the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, but that generally do not respond well to drug treatment with levodopa. They are associated with abnormal protein buildup within brain cells.

The term refers to several conditions, each affecting particular parts of the brain and showing a characteristic course:

Dementia with Lewy bodies, characterized by an abnormal accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein in brain cells (“synucleinopathy”)

Progressive supranuclear palsy, involving tau protein buildup (“tauopathy”) affecting the frontal lobes, brainstem, cerebellum and substantia nigra

Multiple system atrophy, another synucleinopathy that affects the autonomic nervous system (the part of the nervous system that controls internal functions such as heartbeat, blood pressure, urination digestion), substantia nigra and at times the cerebellum

Corticobasal syndrome, a rare tauopathy that typically affects one side of the body more than the other and makes it difficult for patients to see and navigate through space

For More Information:

Benign rolandic epilepsy accounts for about 15% of the cases of epilepsy in children. On average, children are between 6 and 8 years old when they first develop seizures from benign rolandic epilepsy. Adults aren't affected by this form of epilepsy, however.

It's called "rolandic" because seizures originate in the rolandic area of the brain. That's the area that controls the face. Because these seizures begin in a specific part of the brain, they are called partial seizures.

Benign rolandic epilepsy is also called "benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes." This refers to a pattern of brain waves it often creates on an electroencephalogram (EEG).

For More Information:

The brachial plexus is the network of nerves that sends signals from your spinal cord to your shoulder, arm and hand. A brachial plexus injury occurs when these nerves are stretched, compressed, or in the most serious cases, ripped apart or torn away from the spinal cord.

Minor brachial plexus injuries, known as stingers or burners, are common in contact sports, such as football. Babies sometimes sustain brachial plexus injuries during birth. Other conditions, such as inflammation or tumors, may affect the brachial plexus.

The most severe brachial plexus injuries usually result from automobile or motorcycle accidents. Severe brachial plexus injuries can leave your arm paralyzed, but surgery may help restore function.

For More Information:

A brain aneurysm occurs when a weak spot in your brain’s arterial wall bulges and fills with blood. It may also be called an intracranial aneurysm or cerebral aneurysm.

A brain aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition that can affect a person at any age. If a brain aneurysm bursts, it’s an emergency situation that can result in a stroke, brain damage, and even death if not treated immediately.

Not all aneurysms will rupture. Around 6 million people in the United States have aneurysms that haven’t ruptured, according to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation. An estimated 50 to 80 percent of all aneurysms never rupture in a person's lifetime.

Only about 30,000 of people in the United States experience ruptured aneurysms each year. Forty percent of ruptured aneurysms are fatal.

If you think you may at risk of having or acquiring an aneurism, come and see us. We often monitor patients for years, and we always recommend early treatment if your aneurism appears to be at risk of rupture. Here are some of the risk factors that could lead to an aneurysm:

Aneurysms run in your family
older age
drug abuse, especially cocaine
alcohol abuse
congenital problems that affect the arterial walls, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
head injury
cerebral arteriovenous malformation
congenital narrowing of the aorta known as coarctation

For More Information:

Brainstem glioma generally refers to all gliomas that are located in the brainstem.

Typically these tumors are astrocytomas, and can be grades I-IV. Because of their location in the brainstem (which controls many critical functions like breathing, swallowing, and heart rate), treatment for these tumors require certain considerations.

Astrocytomas that develop in different regions of the brainstem behave very differently from each other. Gliomas that occur in the midbrain and medulla (the top and bottom segments of the brainstem, respectively) are usually low grade (grade I). However, those that arise in the pons (the mid-portion of the brainstem) are usually grade IV tumors and typically grow much faster and progress more rapidly. The reason for the very rapid growth of these tumors in this particular area of the brain is still unknown.

For More Information:

A brain tumor is a collection, or mass, of abnormal cells in your brain. Your skull, which encloses your brain, is very rigid. Any growth inside such a restricted space can cause problems. Brain tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). When benign or malignant tumors grow, they can cause the pressure inside your skull to increase. This can cause brain damage, and it can be life-threatening.

Brain tumors are categorized as primary or secondary. A primary brain tumor originates in your brain. Many primary brain tumors are benign. A secondary brain tumor, also known as a metastatic brain tumor, occurs when cancer cells spread to your brain from another organ, such as your lung or breast.

There are many types of brain tumors. Primary brain tumors originate in your brain. They can be benign or cancerous. In adults, the most common types of brain tumors are gliomas and meningiomas. Other primary brain tumors include pituitary tumors, pineal gland tumors, ependymomas, craniopharyngiomas, primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphomas, primary germ cell tumors, meningiomas and schwannomas.

Secondary brain tumors make up the majority of brain cancers. They start in one part of the body and spread, or metastasize, to the brain. Cancers that commonly spread to the brain include lung, breast, kidney and skin cancers. Secondary brain tumors are always malignant, because benign tumors don’t spread from one part of your body to another.

For More Information:

Brain tumors are clumps of cells in the brain that are dividing incorrectly (too much or too fast). There are many different kinds of cells that can behave this way. Some are aggressive and spread through the brain and spine. When the cells spread, we call them malignant or metastatic. In other types of brain tumors, the cells just stay in one place, but are a problem because they are growing in the skull, an area where space is limited.

Unlike adult cancers, doctors think that brain tumors in young people are not caused by any environmental factors, but rather by a "two hit" theory. This theory implies that first the brain cells divide incorrectly, and second the body's usual process for finding and stopping this bad division doesn't work.

Brain tumors seem to occur more often in children under 3 years old and in teenagers. Children’s Hospital of Colorado offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art treatment and skilled neurosurgeons from the CU Department of Neurosurgery.

For More Information: Pediatric Brain Tumors

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a medical condition due to compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist at the carpal tunnel.[1] The main symptoms are pain, numbness and tingling in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and the thumb side of the ring finger.[1] Symptoms typically start gradually and during the night.[2] Pain may extend up the arm.[2] Weak grip strength may occur, and after a long period of time the muscles at the base of the thumb may waste away.[2] In more than half of cases, both hands are affected.[1]

Carpal tunnel surgery, also called carpal tunnel release (CTR) and carpal tunnel decompression surgery, is a surgery in which the transverse carpal ligament is divided. It is a surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and recommended when there is constant (not just intermittent) numbness, muscle weakness, or atrophy, and when night-splinting no longer controls intermittent symptoms of pain in the carpal tunnel.[1] In general, milder cases can be controlled for months to years, but severe cases are unrelenting symptomatically and are likely to result in surgical treatment.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are vascular lesions comprised of clusters of tightly packed, abnormally thin-walled small blood vessels (capillaries) that displace normal neurological tissue in the brain or spinal cord. Common symptoms include headaches or seizures. Experiencing symptoms depends on where the lesions grow and how many of the lesions are present.

Most of the time, these formations cause no problems. Many people never know that they have one. In some people, however, the lesions can burst and bleed into the brain, causing neurologic problems, including stroke and, in rare instances, death.

For More Information:

A cerebral aneurysm (also known as a brain aneurysm) is a weak or thin spot on an artery in the brain that balloons or bulges out and fills with blood. The bulging aneurysm can put pressure on the nerves or brain tissue. It may also burst or rupture, spilling blood into the surrounding tissue (called a hemorrhage). A ruptured aneurysm can cause serious health problems such as hemorrhagic stroke, brain damage, coma, and even death.

Some cerebral aneurysms, particularly those that are very small, do not bleed or cause other problems. These types of aneurysms are usually detected during imaging tests for other medical conditions. Cerebral aneurysms can occur anywhere in the brain, but most form in the major arteries along the base of the skull.

Brain aneurysms can occur in anyone and at any age. They are most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 60 and are more common in women than in men. People with certain inherited disorders are also at higher risk.

All cerebral aneurysms have the potential to rupture and cause bleeding within the brain or surrounding area. Approximately 30,000 Americans per year suffer a brain aneurysm rupture. Much less is known about how many people have cerebral aneurysms, since they don’t always cause symptoms. There are no proven statistics but a consensus of scientific papers indicate that between 3 and 5 percent of Americans may have an aneurysm in their lifetime.

Also, see “brain aneurysm” and “aneurysm”

For More Information:

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak occurs when there is a tear or hole in the membranes surrounding the brain or spinal cord, allowing the clear fluid that surrounds and cushions those organs to escape.

Cranial CSF leaks occur in the head and are associated with CSF rhinorrhea, in which the cerebrospinal fluid escapes through the nasal passages (runny nose).

Spinal CSF leaks develop due to tears in the soft tissues surrounding the spinal cord.

Some CSF leaks occur spontaneously and the cause is unknown, while others are a result of trauma such as a head injury, brain or spinal surgery, an epidural, a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) or a skull base tumor.

Patients with high-pressure hydrocephalus, an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid, also may be at an increased risk of developing leaks.

The most common symptoms of a spinal CSF leak are:

Positional headaches, which feel worse when sitting upright and better when lying down; caused by intracranial hypotension
Nausea and vomiting
Neck pain or stiffness
Change in hearing (muffled, ringing in the ears)
Sense of imbalance
Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
Phonophobia (sensitivity to sound)
Pain between the shoulder blades

For patients with cranial CSF leaks, the most common indicators are:

Drainage from the nose (rhinorrhea)
Salty or metallic taste in the mouth
Sense of drainage down back of throat
Drainage from the ear (otorrhea)
Cutaneous sinus tract drainage (CSF leaks into the sinus tract, which then creates a pathway to drain through the skin)
Loss of sense of smell (anosmia)
Change in hearing or ringing in the ears

For More Information: Neuro-Critical Care

Cerebral vascular insufficiency refers to decreased blood supply to the brain. It is extremely common among the elderly in developed countries due to the high prevalence of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). The artery affected in most cases is the carotid artery. A pair of carotid arteries—one on each side of the neck running parallel to the jugular vein—are the main arteries that supply blood to the brain.

Symptoms of cerebral vascular insufficiency are caused by reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. This can lead to a stroke. Any symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, drooping of the facial muscles, ringing in the ears, sudden confusion, etc. warrant a 911 call immediately.

For More Information:

A herniated disk refers to a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (disks) that sit between the individual bones (vertebrae) that stack to make your spine. A spinal disk has a soft, jellylike center (nucleus) encased in a tougher, rubbery exterior (annulus). Sometimes called a slipped disk or a ruptured disk, a herniated disk occurs when some of the nucleus pushes out through a tear in the annulus.

A herniated disk, which can occur in any part of the spine, can irritate a nearby nerve. Depending on where the herniated disk is, it can result in pain, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg. Many people have no symptoms from a herniated disk. Surgery is not always recommended, but when it is, neuro spine surgeons excel at many specialty procedures and devices that reduce risk and optimize outcomes.

For More Information:

This is a condition in which the lower or upper appendages of the body lose their functionality. It occurs as a result of damage to the cervical spine, which comprises the first 7 vertebra (around the neck region). Such damage is directly caused by pressure exerted on the spinal cord located inside the neck, or sometimes there are other contributors which interfere with the normal signal transmission by neurons in the spinal cord. Apart from the extremities, this condition may also affect bowel and bladder control.

For More Information:

Chondrosarcoma is a cancer composed of cells derived from transformed cells that produce cartilage. Chondrosarcoma is a member of a category of tumors of bone and soft tissue known as sarcomas. Often, peripheral nerves are involved. About 30% of skeletal system cancers are chondrosarcomas. It is resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Unlike other primary bone cancers that mainly affect children and adolescents, chondrosarcoma can present at any age. It more often affects the axial skeleton than the appendicular skeleton.

For More Information:

Chordoma is a rare type of bone cancer that happens most often in the bones of the spine or the skull. It most often forms where the skull sits atop the spine (skull base) or at the bottom of the spine (sacrum).

Chordoma begins in cells that once made up a collection of cells in the developing embryo that go on to become the disks of the spine. Most of these cells go away by the time you're born or soon after. But sometimes a few of these cells remain and, rarely, they can become cancerous.

Chordoma happens most often in adults between 40 and 60, though it can happen at any age.

Chordoma usually grows slowly. It can be difficult to treat because it's often located very close the spinal cord and other important structures, such as arteries, nerves or the brin.

For More Information:

Chordoma happens most often in adults between 40 and 60, though it can happen at any age.

Chordoma usually grows slowly. It can be difficult to treat because it's often located very close the spinal cord and other important structures, such as arteries, nerves or the brin.

For More Information:

A concussion is a traumatic head injury, usually mild and temporary. Common in both children and adults. Treatment is advised, in case there are serious or long lasting symptoms. Signs and symptoms of a concussion may include: Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head. Nausea or vomiting. Balance problems or dizzines . Double or blurry vision. Sensitivity to light or noise. Feeling sluggish, groggy or dazed. Difficulty paying attention.

For More Information:

Congenital abnormalities, called malformations, are conditions affecting the form and function of the nervous system.

There are numerous variations of congenital malformations of the bone and soft tissue of the head and spine, including neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, encephaloceles, Chiari malformations and arachnoid cysts.

Some congenital malformations are mild, and some are severe but correctable with surgery by a pediatric neurosurgeon.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Convexity meningiomas are tumors that grow on the surface of the brain (called the convexity). These tumors are about 20 percent of all meningioma cases. Convexity meningiomas are some of the most surgically accessible meningiomas, so we can usually remove them (resection) completely.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Craniofacial is a medical term that relates to the bones of the skull and face. Dysmorphology is the study of disordered development, resulting in recognizable morphologic abnormalities that fall outside the range of normal human variation. Craniofacial abnormalities are birth defects of the face or head. Some, like cleft lip and palate, are among the most common of all birth defects. Others are very rare. Most of them affect how a person's face or head looks. These conditions may also affect other parts of the body. Children’s Hospital of Colorado has a robust, multi-disciplinary team that specializes in all variations of these abnormalities.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Craniopharyngioma is a rare type of brain tumor that mostly affects children between the ages of 5 and 14, but sometimes occur in adults. They grow near the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. Craniopharyngiomas are made up of solid parts and fluid-filled pockets called cysts.

This type of tumor isn't cancer, so it can't spread to other parts of your body. But it can get larger and press on parts of your brain that control vision and hormone release.

Doctors aren’t sure why these tumors form, and there’s no known way to prevent them.

Most craniopharyngiomas grow slowly and are treatable.

For More Information: Pituitary Program of Excellence

Craniopharyngioma is a rare type of brain tumor that mostly affects children between the ages of 5 and 14. Adults sometimes get them, too. They grow near the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. Craniopharyngiomas are made up of solid parts and fluid-filled pockets called cysts.

This type of tumor isn't cancer, so it can't spread to other parts of your body. But it can get larger and press on parts of your brain that control vision and hormone release.

Doctors aren’t sure why these tumors form, and there’s no known way to prevent them.

Most craniopharyngiomas grow slowly and are treatable. To make sure your child has the best outcome, you should try to work with doctors who have experience in treating this kind of tumor.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Craniosynostosis is a birth defect in which the bones in a baby’s skull join together too early. This happens before the baby’s brain is fully formed. As the baby’s brain grows, the skull can become more misshapen. The spaces between a typical baby’s skull bones are filled with flexible material and called sutures. These sutures allow the skull to grow as the baby’s brain grows. Around two years of age, a child’s skull bones begin to join together because the sutures become bone. When this occurs, the suture is said to “close.” In a baby with craniosynostosis, one or more of the sutures closes too early. This can limit or slow the growth of the baby’s brain.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

A condition that occurs from exposure to high cortisol levels for a long time.

The most common cause is the use of steroid drugs, but it can also occur from overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands. Signs include a fatty hump between the shoulders, a rounded face, and pink or purple stretch marks.

Treatment options include reducing steroid use, surgery, radiation, and medication.

For More Information:

Degenerative spine conditions involve the gradual loss of normal structure and function of the spine over time. They are usually caused by aging, but may also be the result of tumors, infections or arthritis. Pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots caused by degeneration can be caused by slipped or herniated discs, spinal stenosis (or narrowing of the spinal canal), or osteoarthritis (a breakdown of the cartilage at the spinal joints).

For More Information:

Dementia is a collective term used to describe various symptoms of cognitive decline, such as forgetfulness. It is a symptom of several underlying diseases and brain disorders. Dementia is not a single disease in itself, but a general term to describe symptoms of impairment in memory, communication, and thinking. These symptoms interfere with daily functioning.

Dementia is diagnosed when there is impairment of at least two brain functions, such as memory loss and judgment. Symptoms include forgetfulness, limited social skills, short term memory loss, long term memory loss, frequently “getting lost,” sometimes impaired driving and executive functioning.

Medications and therapies may help manage symptoms. Some causes are reversible.

For More Information: Neuropsychology Program of Excellence

Diabetes insipidus is a rare condition that causes your body to make a lot of urine that is "insipid," or colorless and odorless. Most people pee out 1 to 2 quarts a day. People with diabetes insipidus can pass between 3 and 20 quarts a day.

If you have diabetes insipidus, the hormones that help your body balance liquids don’t work. Only one in every 25,000 people gets this condition.

For More Information: Pituitary Tumor Program of Excellence

Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors (DNET) are benign (WHO Grade I) slow growing glioneuronal tumors arising from either cortical or deep grey matter. The vast majority are centered in cortical grey matter, arise from secondary germinal layers, and are frequently associated with cortical dysplasia (in up to 80% of cases). They characteristically cause intractable partial seizures (see temporal lobe epilepsy).

For More Information:

Dystonia is a neurological hyperkinetic movement disorder syndrome in which sustained or repetitive muscle contractions result in twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal fixed postures.[3] The movements may resemble a tremor. Dystonia is often intensified or exacerbated by physical activity, and symptoms may progress into adjacent muscles.[4]

The disorder may be hereditary or caused by other factors such as birth-related or other physical trauma, infection, poisoning (e.g., lead poisoning) or reaction to pharmaceutical drugs, particularly neuroleptics,[3] or stress. Treatment must be highly customized to the needs of the individual and may include oral medications, chemodenervation botulinum neurotoxin injections, physical therapy, or other supportive therapies, and surgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation

For More Information:

Encephalocele is a rare type of birth defect of the neural tube that affects the brain. The neural tube is a narrow channel that folds and closes during the third and fourth weeks of pregnancy to form the brain and spinal cord. Encephalocele is a sac-like protrusion or projection of the brain and the membranes that cover it through an opening in the skull. Encephalocele happens when the neural tube does not close completely during pregnancy. The result is an opening anywhere along the center of the skull from the nose to the back of the neck, but most often at the back of the head (pictured), at the top of the head, or between the forehead and the nose.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery Program of Excellence

An ependymoma is a tumor that arises from the ependyma, a tissue of the central nervous system. Usually, in pediatric cases the location is intracranial, while in adults it is spinal. The common location of intracranial ependymomas is the fourth ventricle. Rarely, ependymomas can occur in the pelvic cavity.

For More Information:

Pediatric ependymomas are similar in nature to the adult form of ependymoma in that they are thought to arise from radial glial cells lining the ventricular system. However, they differ from adult ependymomas in which genes and chromosomes are most often affected, the region of the brain they are most frequently found in, and the prognosis of the patients. Children with certain hereditary diseases, such as neurofibromatosis type II (NF2), have been found to be more frequently afflicted with this class of tumors, but a firm genetic link remains to be established. Symptoms associated with the development of pediatric ependymomas are varied, much like symptoms for a number of other pediatric brain tumors including vomiting, headache, irritability, lethargy, and changes in gait. Although younger children and children with invasive tumor types generally experience less favorable outcomes, total removal of the tumors is the most conspicuous prognostic factor for both survival and relapse.

For More Information:

Epilepsy is a central nervous system (neurological) disorder in which brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations, and sometimes loss of awareness.

Anyone can develop epilepsy. Epilepsy affects both males and females of all races, ethnic backgrounds and ages.

Seizure symptoms can vary widely. Some people with epilepsy simply stare blankly for a few seconds during a seizure, while others repeatedly twitch their arms or legs. Having a single seizure doesn't mean you have epilepsy. At least two unprovoked seizures are generally required for an epilepsy diagnosis.

Treatment with medications or sometimes surgery can control seizures for the majority of people with epilepsy. Some people require lifelong treatment to control seizures, but for others, the seizures eventually go away. Some children with epilepsy may outgrow the condition with age.

For More Information: Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery Program of Excellence

Epilepsy is the most common childhood brain disorder in the United States. Nearly 3 million people have been diagnosed with this disease, while 450,000 of them are under the age of 17. [1] Fortunately, two thirds of the child population will overcome the side effects, most notably, seizures, in teenage-hood through treatment. [1] Epilepsy affects all ages groups. But for children, a variety of issues exist that can affect one's childhood.

Seizures are defined as 'a transient occurrence of signs and symptoms due to the abnormal, excessive, or synchronous neuronal activity in the brain characterized by abrupt and involuntary skeletal muscles activity'[2]. A doctor will most often diagnose a child with epilepsy, also known as seizure disorder, if the child has one or more seizures, if the doctor thinks they could have another one, and if their seizures aren't caused by another medical condition.

Some epilepsy ends after childhood. Some forms of epilepsy are associated only with conditions of childhood that cease once a child grows up. Approximately 70% of children who have epilepsy during their childhood eventually outgrow it. There are also some seizures, such as febrile seizures, that are one-time occurrences during childhood, and they do not result in permanent epilepsy.

Pediatric epilepsy may cause changes in the development of the brain. For this reason, epilepsy in children is vastly distinct from epilepsy in adults and they must be considered differently in most regards.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Essential Tremor is a nerve disorder characterized by uncontrollable shaking, or "tremors," in different parts and on different sides of the body. Areas affected often include the hands, arms, head, larynx (voice box), tongue, and chin. The lower body is rarely affected.

ET is not a life-threatening disorder, unless it prevents a person from caring for him or herself. Most people are able to live normal lives with this condition -- although they may find everyday activities like eating, dressing, or writing difficult. It is only when the tremors become severe that they actually cause disability.

For More Information:

Esthesioneuroblastoma, is a rare cancer of the nasal cavity. Arising from the upper nasal tract, esthesioneuroblastoma is believed to originate from sensory neuroepithelial cells, also known as neuroectodermal olfactory cells.

For More Information:

Fibrillary astrocytomas are the most common type of diffuse low grade astrocytoma and as of the 2016 update to WHO classification of CNS tumors it no longer exists as a distinct entity, having been incorporated into the generic term diffuse astrocytoma.

Unlike the other variants of diffuse low grade gliomas (e.g. gemistocytic astrocytoma, protoplasmic astrocytoma, oligoastrocytoma) or the focal low grade gliomas (e.g. pilocytic astrocytoma, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma) they are often merely referred to as a low grade glioma.

For More Information:

Fibrous dysplasia is a disorder where normal bone and marrow is replaced with fibrous tissue, resulting in formation of bone that is weak and prone to expansion. As a result, most complications result from fracture, deformity, functional impairment, and pain. Disease occurs along a broad clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic, incidental lesions, to severe disabling disease. Disease can affect one bone (monostotic), multiple (polyostotic), or all bones (panostotic) and may occur in isolation or in combination with café au lait skin macules and hyperfunctioning endocrinopathies, termed McCune–Albright syndrome. More rarely, fibrous dysplasia may be associated with intramuscular myxomas, termed Mazabraud's syndrome. Fibrous dysplasia is very rare, and there is no known cure. Fibrous dysplasia is not a form of cancer.

For More Information: Neuro-Oncology Program of Excellence

Foot drop, sometimes called "drop foot," is the inability to lift the front part of the foot. This causes the toes to drag along the ground while walking.

To avoid dragging the toes, people with foot drop may lift their knee higher than normal. Or they may swing their leg in a wide arc.

Foot drop can happen to one foot or both feet at the same time. It can strike at any age.

In general, foot drop stems from weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot. It can have many different causes. Treatments for foot drop vary according to the cause.

Foot drop is a symptom of an underlying problem, rather than a disease itself. It can be temporary or permanent. Causes of foot drop include nerve injury, brain or spinal disorders and muscle disorders.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Generalized seizures affect both cerebral hemispheres (sides of the brain) from the beginning of the seizure. They produce loss of consciousness, either briefly or for a longer period of time, and are sub-categorized into several major types, including Generalized tonic clonic seizures (grand mal seizures), myoclonic, atonic, or absence seizures (petit mal).

For More Information: Functional and Restorative Program of Excellence

A germ-cell tumor (GCT) is a neoplasm derived from germ cells. Germ-cell tumors can be cancerous or benign. Germ cells normally occur inside the gonads (ovary and testis). GCTs that originate outside the gonads may be birth defects resulting from errors during development of the embryo.

For More Information:

Giant cell tumor of bone is a rare, aggressive non-cancerous tumor. It generally happens in adults between ages 20 and 40 when skeletal bone growth is complete.

It usually develops near a joint at the end of the bone. The location of a giant cell tumor is often in the knee, but can also involve the bones of the arms and the legs. It can also affect the flat bones, such as the breastbone or pelvis.

For More Information:

Glioma is a broad category of brain and spinal cord tumors that come from glial cells brain cells that support nerve cells.

The symptoms, prognosis, and treatment of a glioma depend on the person’s age, the exact type of tumor, and the location of the tumor within the brain. These tumors tend to grow and infiltrate into the normal brain tissue, which makes surgical removal very difficult -- or sometimes impossible -- and complicates treatment.

These brain tumors are often diagnosed older adults , depending on the type of glioma. Brain tumors are slightly more likely to occur in males. Most gliomas that occur in children are low grade.

Prior radiation to the brain is a risk factor for malignant gliomas. Some genetic disorders also increase the risk of development of these tumors in children but rarely in adults.

Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is the most aggressive type of cancer that begins within the brain.[6] Initially, signs and symptoms of glioblastoma are nonspecific. They may include headaches, personality changes, nausea and symptoms similar to those of a stroke. Symptoms often worsen rapidly and may progress to unconsciousness.

The cause of most cases of glioblastoma is not known. Uncommon risk factors include genetic disorders, such as neurofibromatosis and Li–Fraumeni syndrome, and previous radiation therapy. Glioblastomas represent 15% of all brain tumors. They can either start from normal brain cells or develop from an existing low-grade astrocytoma. The diagnosis typically is made by a combination of a CT scan, MRI scan and tissue biopsy.

There is no known method of preventing the cancer. Treatment usually involves surgery, after which chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used. High-dose steroids may be used to help reduce swelling and decrease symptoms. Greater surgical removal of the tumor is linked to longer survival.

For More Information:

Glioblastoma Multiformes (GBMs) are high-grade gliomas that arise from the brain’s supportive tissue, known as glial cells. These are aggressive tumors that rapidly infiltrate adjacent healthy brain tissue and, as a result, are difficult to treat.

The majority of GBMs, roughly 65%, occur in the cerebral hemispheres, which control higher functions like speech, movement, thought and sensation. They can also develop in the part of the brain that identifies sensations such as temperature, pain and touch and the region of the brain that controls balance and motor function.

These tumors are usually diagnosed between the ages of 5 and 9, and occur in boys and girls equally. GBMs occur with increased frequency in children with certain genetic syndromes, including neurofibromatosis 1, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer and tuberous sclerosis. Most GBMs, however, have no known cause.

Our glioma specialists have extensive expertise in treating all types of gliomas, including GBMs. Our patients receive multidisciplinary care from neuro-oncologists, neurosurgeons, neurologists, and pediatric subspecialists.

For More Information:

A hemangiopericytoma is a type of soft-tissue sarcoma that originates in the pericytes in the walls of capillaries. When inside the nervous system, although not strictly a meningioma tumor, it is a meningeal tumor with a special aggressive behavior. It was first characterized in 1942. Depending on the grade of the sarcoma, it is treated with surgery,[5] chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy.

For More Information:

Hyperprolactinemia describes an excess of the hormone prolactin in a person’s body. Prolactin is a hormone produced from the pituitary gland. It helps stimulate and maintain breast milk production.

It’s normal to have this condition during pregnancy or when producing milk for breastfeeding.

Certain conditions or use of specific medications, however, can cause hyperprolactinemia in anyone. The causes and effects of high prolactin levels vary depending on a person’s sex.

For More Information: Pituitary Program of Excellence

Hydrocephalus is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the ventricles (cavities) deep within the brain. This excess fluid causes the ventricles to widen, putting pressure on the brain’s tissues.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the clear, colorless fluid that protects and cushions the brain and spine. Normally, cerebrospinal fluid flows through the ventricles and bathes the brain and spinal cord before being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. The body typically produces enough CSF each day and absorbs the same amount. However, when the normal flow or absorption of CSF is blocked it can result in a buildup of CSF. The pressure from too much CSF can keep the brain from functioning properly and cause brain damage and even death.

Fortunately, there are treatment options that can restore normal levels of CSF. Though treatment is often helpful, it may take multiple surgeries to treat hydrocephalus. (Hydrocephalus is the most common reason for brain surgery in young children.) With treatment many people lead normal and productive lives.

This condition is treated by the entire neurosurgery department. Call (720) 848-2080 to make an adult appointment, or (720) 777-6100 for children

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), previously known as pseudotumor cerebri and benign intracranial hypertension, is a condition characterized by increased intracranial pressure (pressure around the brain) without a detectable cause. The main symptoms are headache, vision problems, ringing in the ears with the heartbeat, and shoulder pain. Complications may include vision loss.

Risk factors include being overweight or a recent increase in weight. Tetracycline may also trigger the condition. The diagnosis is based on symptoms and a high intracranial pressure found during a lumbar puncture with no specific cause found on a brain scan.

This condition is treated by the entire neurosurgery department. Call (720) 848-2080 to make an adult appointment, or (720) 777-6100 for children

Juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma (JPA) is a rare childhood brain tumor. In most cases, the tumor is a benign, slow growing tumor that usually does not spread to surrounding brain tissue. Symptoms of a JPA will vary depending upon the size and location of the tumor. Most symptoms result from increased pressure on the brain and include headaches, nausea, vomiting, balance problems and vision abnormalities.

A JPA develops from certain star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes. Astrocytes and similar cells form tissue that surrounds and protects other nerve cells found within the brain and spinal cord. Collectively, these cells are known as glial cells and the tissue they form is known as glial tissue. Tumors that arise from glial tissue, including astrocytomas, are collectively referred to as gliomas.

For More Information:

Low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure headache is caused by an internal spinal fluid leak and may range from obvious and disabling to subtle and nagging. The brain normally sits inside a bag filled with spinal fluid that extends down from the skull into the spine. The bag consists of membranes called the meninges (as in meningitis). The fluid helps to circulate waste products out of the brain and provides cushioning and support. When the pressure of this fluid is too low typically when there is a small leak somewhere in the meninges — the brain may sag downward when the patient is upright, stretching the meninges and nerves lining the brain and causing pain.

In most cases, there is an obvious cause of the leak, such as a spinal tap, spinal surgery, or trauma to the head or neck. In cases when postural headaches develop shortly after an obvious potential cause, diagnosis is usually easy to make. Subtle cases can be trickier to diagnose. There may be no obvious precipitating event, or perhaps the leak was caused by a sneeze, a violent cough, or some other unrecognized minor trauma. Some patients — particularly those with hyperflexibility of the joints — may be born with meninges that are more susceptible to tearing with relatively small degrees of force.

This condition is treated by the entire neurosurgery department. Call (720) 848-2080 to make an adult appointment, or (720) 777-6100 for children

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are a rare type of cancer that occurs in the lining of the nerves that extend from the spinal cord into the body. Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors used to be called neurofibrosarcomas.

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors can occur anywhere in the body, but most often occur in the deep tissue of the arms, legs and trunk. They tend to cause pain and weakness in the affected area and may also cause a growing lump or mass.

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are typically treated with surgery. In certain cases, radiation therapy and chemotherapy also may be recommended.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Medulloblastoma is the most common type of primary brain cancer in children. It originates in the part of the brain that is towards the back and the bottom, on the floor of the skull, in the cerebellum, or posterior fossa.

The brain is divided into two main parts, the larger cerebrum on top and the smaller cerebellum below towards the back. They are separated by a membrane called the tentorium. Tumors that originate in the cerebellum or the surrounding region below the tentorium are, therefore, called infratentorial.

Historically medulloblastomas have been classified as a primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET), but it is now known that medulloblastoma is distinct from supratentorial PNETs and they are no longer considered similar entities.

Medulloblastomas are invasive, rapidly growing tumors that, unlike most brain tumors, spread through the cerebrospinal fluid and frequently metastasize to different locations along the surface of the brain and spinal cord. Metastasis all the way down to the cauda equina at the base of the spinal cord is termed "drop metastasis".

For More Information:

A meningioma is a tumor that forms on membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord just inside the skull.

Specifically, the tumor forms on the three layers of membranes that are called meninges.

These tumors are often slow-growing. As many as 90% are benign (not cancerous).

Most meningiomas occur in the brain. But they can also grow on parts of the spinal cord.

Often, meningiomas cause no symptoms and require no immediate treatment. But the growth of benign meningiomas can cause serious problems. In some cases, such growth can be fatal.

Meningiomas are the most common type of tumor that originates in the central nervous system. They occur more often in women than in men.

Some meningiomas are classified as atypical. These are not considered either benign or malignant (cancerous). But they may become malignant.

A small number of meningiomas are cancerous. They tend to grow quickly. They also can spread to other parts of the brain and beyond, often to the lungs.

For More Information:

Adult Brain Tumor Program

Meralgia paresthetica is a condition characterized by tingling, numbness and burning pain in the outer thigh. It is caused by compression of the nerve that supplies sensation to the skin surface of the thigh. Tight clothing, obesity or weight gain, and pregnancy are common causes, but meralgia paresthetica can also be due to local trauma or a disease, such as diabetes. In most cases, conservative measures such as wearing looser clothing may relieve this condition. In severe cases, medications and/or surgery are needed.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Brain metastases occur when cancer cells spread from the original site of the cancer to the brain. Any cancer can spread to the brain, but the types most likely to cause brain metastases are lung, breast, colon, kidney and melanoma.

Brain metastases, or secondary brain tumors, occur in 10 to 30 percent of adults with cancer. As the metastatic brain tumors grow, they create pressure on and change the function of surrounding brain tissue. Brain metastases can cause many signs and symptoms.

Treatment for people whose cancer has spread to the brain is often surgery, radiation therapy or both. In some cases, chemotherapy and immunotherapy are helpful. Treatment is often focused on reducing pain and symptoms resulting from the cancer.

For More Information:

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) causes a slight but noticeable and measurable decline in cognitive abilities, including memory and thinking skills. A person with MCI is at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's or another dementia.

Mild cognitive impairment causes cognitive changes that are serious enough to be noticed to the person affected and to family members and friends, but do not affect the individual’s ability to carry out everyday activities. Approximately 15% to 20% of people age 65 or older have MCI.

People living with MCI, especially MCI involving memory problems, are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias than people without MCI. However, MCI does not always lead to dementia. In some individuals, MCI reverts to normal cognition or remains stable. In other cases, such as when a medication causes cognitive impairment, MCI is mistakenly diagnosed. It is important that people experiencing cognitive changes seek help as soon as possible for diagnosis
and possible treatment.

For More Information: Neuro-Psychology Program of Excellence

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) uses smaller incisions than standard surgery. This often causes less harm to nearby muscles and other tissues. It can lead to less pain and better outcomes after surgery.

The standard method of spine surgery is called open surgery. This uses a long incision down the back. The muscles and soft tissue around the spine would need to be moved away. In some cases, tissue would need to be removed.

During MISS, the surgeon makes a smaller incision. He or she then inserts a device called a tubular retractor. This is a stiff, tube-shaped tool. It creates a tunnel to the problem area of the spine. It gently pushes aside the muscle and soft tissue around the area. The surgeon can then put small tools through the tunnel to work on the spine. The surgeon also uses a special operating microscope and views real-time X-ray images of the spine.

Surgeons can use MISS for some types of spine surgery. These include lumbar discectomy, laminectomy, and spinal fusion.

For More Information:

Mixed gliomas are tumors made up of more than one type of glial cell—support cells in the brain and spinal cord. At Columbia University Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, we specialize in diagnosing and surgically treating mixed gliomas. For more information on the treatment of mixed gliomas, see our page on brain tumor surgery.

Most brain tumors are named after the cells from which they develop. A brain tumor derived from glial cells is known as a glioma. There are several types of gliomas, including astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas and ependymomas. Each derives from a single type of glial cell:

For More Information:

Moyamoya disease is a disease in which certain arteries in the brain are constricted. Blood flow is blocked by constriction and blood clots (thrombosis).[1] A collateral circulation develops around the blocked vessels to compensate for the blockage, but the collateral vessels are small, weak, and prone to bleeding, aneurysm and thrombosis. On conventional MR angiography, these collateral vessels have the appearance of a "puff of smoke" (described in Japanese).

When moyamoya is diagnosed by itself, with no underlying correlational conditions, it is diagnosed as moyamoya disease. This is also the case when the arterial constriction and collateral circulation are bilateral. Moyamoya syndrome is unilateral arterial constriction, or occurs when one of the several specified conditions is also present.[2] This may also be considered as moyamoya being secondary to the primary condition. Mainly, occlusion of the distal internal carotid artery occurs. On angiography, a "puff of smoke" appearance is seen, and the treatment of choice is surgical bypass.

For More Information:

Myoclonic atonic epilepsy (MAE) is also known as Doose Syndrome.

MAE affects boys more than girls and starts in early childhood with the first seizure usually occurring between 2 to 6 years of age.

Development prior to seizure onset is usually normal. With frequent seizures, development slows and may regress. With control of seizures and EEG improvement, development progresses again.

Children with MAE then develop multiple seizure types, including drop attacks. About a third of children may have episodes of non-convulsive status epilepticus.

Gene mutations may be involved.

Seizures associated with MAE typically don't respond well to seizure medication initially and the outlook is variable.

Contact:

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a group of three conditions in which tumors grow in the nervous system.[1] The three types are neurofibromatosis type I (NF1), neurofibromatosis type II (NF2), and schwannomatosis.[1] In NF1 symptoms include light brown spots on the skin, freckles in the armpit and groin, small bumps within nerves, and scoliosis.[2] In NF2, there may be hearing loss, cataracts at a young age, balance problems, flesh colored skin flaps, and muscle wasting.[2] In schwannomatosis there may be pain either in one location or in wide areas of the body.[3] The tumors in NF are generally non-cancerous.[1]

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Nerve injury is injury to nervous tissue. There is no single classification system that can describe all the many variations of nerve injury. In 1941, Seddon introduced a classification of nerve injuries based on three main types of nerve fiber injury and whether there is continuity of the nerve. A nerve injury can be caused by pressure, stretching, or cutting of the nerve. If your nerve is injured, you may feel numb, weak or painful in the injured area.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

The nerve sheath is a layer of myelin and connective tissue that surrounds and insulates fibers in the peripheral nerves — those branching out of the brain and spinal cord. A nerve sheath tumor is an abnormal growth within the cells of this covering. Nerve sheath tumors such as neurofibromas and schwannomas are mostly benign, but malignant nerve sheath tumors can be serious and require prompt treatment.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

A neurofibroma is a benign nerve-sheath tumor in the peripheral nervous system. In 90% of cases, they are found as stand-alone tumors, while the remainder are found in persons with neurofibromatosis type I, an autosomal-dominant genetically inherited disease. They can result in a range of symptoms from physical disfiguration and pain to cognitive disability.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Neurofibromatoses are genetic disorders of the nervous system. Mainly, these disorders affect the growth and development of nerve cell tissue. The disorders are known as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). NF1 is the more common type of neurofibromatosis. Schwannomatosis has recently been identified as a third and more rare type of neurofibromatosis, but little is known about it.

NF1, also called von Recklinghausen NF or peripheral NF, is characterized by multiple café au lait spots (patches of tan or light brown skin) and neurofibromas (soft, fleshy growths) on or under the skin. Enlargement and deformation of bones and curvature of the spine (scoliosis) may also occur. Occasionally, tumors may develop in the brain, on cranial nerves, or on the spinal cord. About 50% to 75% of people with NF1 also have learning disabilities.

NF2, also called bilateral acoustic NF (BAN), is much less common than NF1 and is characterized by multiple tumors on the cranial and spinal nerves. Tumors that affect both of the auditory nerves and hearing loss beginning in the teens or early twenties are generally the first symptom of NF2.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a brain disorder in which excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates in the brain's ventricles, causing thinking and reasoning problems, difficulty walking, and loss of bladder control.

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a brain disorder in which excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain’s ventricles, which are fluid-filled chambers. Normal pressure hydrocephalus is called "normal pressure" because despite the excess fluid, CSF pressure as measured during a spinal tap is often normal. As brain ventricles enlarge with the excess CSF, they can disrupt and damage nearby brain tissue, leading to difficulty walking, problems with thinking and reasoning, and loss of bladder control.

Normal pressure hydrocephalus can sometimes be treated with surgical insertion of a shunt, a long, thin tube that drains excess CSF from the brain to the abdomen. Surgery is most likely to help correct difficulties walking, but thinking changes and loss of bladder control are less likely to improve. Shunting doesn’t help everyone with normal pressure hydrocephalus, and there’s uncertainty about how best to identify those most likely to benefit. There’s also a lack of data showing how long the benefit of shunting may last for those whose symptoms improve.

This condition is treated by the entire neurosurgery department. Call (720) 848-2080 to make an adult appointment, or (720) 777-6100 for children

Obstructive hydrocephalus (also called non-communicating hydrocephalus) is a form of hydrocephalus which is caused by some visible blockage in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

One of the most common sites in the brain for obstruction is the cerebral aqueduct. This area is a narrowing of the ventricles within the brain and therefore is prone to obstruction. Either rings, webs or tumors in the area can cause obstruction of the aqueduct, termed aqueductal stenosis.

If no obvious point of obstruction is found on neurological testing, it is termed communicating hydrocephalus or non-obstructive hydrocephalus. The fluid spaces in the brain appear to be communicating normally.

This condition is treated by the entire neurosurgery department. Call (720) 848-2080 to make an adult appointment, or (720) 777-6100 for children

Occipital neuralgia is a rare type of chronic headache disorder. It occurs when pain stems from the occipital region and spreads through the occipital nerves. The occipital nerves run from the top of your spinal cord to your scalp.

Unlike headaches or migraines, occipital neuralgia can be triggered quickly, even with a simple touch like brushing your hair. The most severe part of the attacks is brief, with intense, sharp pain lasting only a few seconds to a few minutes. Migraine pain, which is also severe, lasts much longer than pain from occipital neuralgia.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare cancer of the upper part of the nasal cavity called the cribiform plate, which is a bone deep in the skull between the eyes, and above the ethmoid sinuses. It accounts for about 5% of all cancers of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. It develops in nerve tissue associated with the sense of smell (olfactory nerve). It can occur at any age, but typically is found in adulthood.[1][2][3] Symptoms may be nonspecific and include a blockage of the nasal passageways due to the tumor, facial pain, runny nose, and nosebleeds. Treatment usually includes surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and sometimes chemotherapy.[2]

For More Information:

Oligodendroglioma is a rare tumor that occurs in the brain. It belongs to a group of brain tumors called gliomas. Gliomas are primary tumors. This means they have originated in the brain rather than spreading from elsewhere in the body.

Around 3% of all brain tumors are oligodendrogliomas. The tumors can be fast or slow growing. They are more commonly diagnosed in adults, though young children can also be affected. In rare cases, the tumors can spread through the central nervous system via the fluid around your brain and spinal cord.

Oligodendrogliomas are typically divided into two types: grade II – slow growing and anaplastic grade III (fast growing and malignant)

For More Information:

An optic nerve glioma is a type of brain tumor. There are multiple kinds of brain tumors. Typically, each type of tumor is named after the kinds of cells it affects.

Most optic nerve gliomas are considered low-grade and don’t grow as quickly as other types of brain tumors. They are found in the optic chiasm, where the left and right optic nerves cross. They are also referred to as optic glioma or juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma.

Optic nerve glioma is a rare kind of cancer that’s typically slow growing and found in children. It is rarely found in individuals over the age of 20. It has also been associated with the genetic disorder neurofibromatosis type 1, or NF1.

For More Information:

An optic nerve glioma (also called an optic pathway glioma) is a slow-growing brain tumor that arises in or around the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. As the tumor progresses, it presses on the optic nerve, causing a child’s vision to worsen. Blindness can occur but only in about 5 percent of cases. While these are serious tumors, they have a high cure rate.

Nearly 75 percent of optic nerve gliomas, which may affect one or both eyes, occur in children younger than 10, with most younger than 5 years of age at the time of diagnosis. Optic nerve gliomas account for 5 percent of all childhood brain tumors. Because the optic system is located near the hormone center of the brain, these tumors can affect the body's endocrine functions, such as hormone production, salt and water balance, appetite, and sleep.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

An osteoma (plural: "osteomata") is a new piece of bone usually growing on another piece of bone, typically the skull. It is a benign tumor.

When the bone tumor grows on other bone it is known as "homoplastic osteoma"; when it grows on other tissue it is called "heteroplastic osteoma".

Osteoma represents the most common benign neoplasm of the nose and paranasal sinuses. The cause of osteomata is uncertain, but commonly accepted theories propose embryologic, traumatic, or infectious causes. Osteomata are also found in Gardner's syndrome. Larger craniofacial osteomata may cause facial pain, headache, and infection due to obstructed nasofrontal ducts. Often, craniofacial osteoma presents itself through ocular signs and symptoms (such as proptosis).[1]

For More Information:

Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity.

Paranasal sinuses

“Paranasal” means near the nose. The paranasal sinuses are hollow, air-filled spaces in the bones around the nose. The sinuses are lined with cells that make mucus, which keeps the inside of the nose from drying out during breathing.

There are several paranasal sinuses named after the bones that surround them:
The frontal sinuses are in the lower forehead above the nose.
The maxillary sinuses are in the cheekbones on either side of the nose.
The ethmoid sinuses are beside the upper nose, between the eyes.
The sphenoid sinuses are behind the nose, in the center of the skull.

For More Information: Skull Base Neurosurgery Program of Excellence

Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Symptoms start gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. Tremors are common, but the disorder also commonly causes stiffness or slowing of movement.

In the early stages of Parkinson's disease, the face may show little or no expression, arms may not swing when walking, and speech may become slurred or very soft. The symptoms worse as the condition progresses.

Although are no cures, there are many medications, and now neuro surgical interventions, such as DBS (Deep Brain Stiumlation) which can improve symptoms and regulate certain regions of the brain.

For More Information:

All seizures are caused by abnormal electrical disturbances in the brain. Partial (focal) seizures occur when this electrical activity remains in a limited area of the brain. The seizures can sometimes turn into generalized seizures, which affect the whole brain. This is called secondary generalization.

Partial seizures can be divided into simple seizures (not affecting awareness or memory) and complex seizures (affecting awareness, memory of events before, during and immediately after the seizure, and affecting behavior).

For More Information: Functional and Restorative Program of Excellence

Pediatric hydrocephalus is a condition caused by an excessive buildup of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. CSF is a clear fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord, protecting them from injury. When the fluid builds up in the brain, it can cause increased pressure within the head. Hydrocephalus can occur for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, it is caused by an overproduction of CSF and other times, it may be due to the body’s inability to drain or reabsorb the fluid. It can be present at birth (congenital) or occur after birth (acquired). Pediatric hydrocephalus can be damaging if left untreated, but with early diagnosis and treatment, children with hydrocephalus can often lead normal, healthy lives. According to the Hydrocephalus Association, one to two of every 1,000 babies born in the U.S. will have hydrocephalus and more than one million people in the U.S. are currently living with hydrocephalus.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Spinal cord tumors in children are rare, but they do happen. In fact, tumors of the nervous system are the most common type of solid tumors (those not originating in the blood or bone marrow) found in children. Spinal cord tumors can be life threatening if left untreated. The following information will give you a better understanding of this potentially serious medical condition.

Spinal tumors, also called neoplasms, are abnormal growths of tissue found inside the spinal column. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Tumors that originate in the spine are called primary tumors. Whether cancerous or non-cancerous, tumors in the spine can cause serious health problems as they grow and place pressure on the spinal cord. Immediate treatment is usually required.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Pediatric neurotrauma is the leading cause of death in children more than 1 year of age and disability following pediatric neurotrauma is common, sometimes with a profound impact on functional long- term outcomes. Neurotrauma includes traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI). Our approach at the University of Colorado and the Children’s Hospital of Colorado involves a coordinated team of pediatric specialists who carefully assess your child, form a diagnosis, and develop and implement a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

The peroneal nerve is a branch of the sciatic nerve, which supplies movement and sensation to the lower leg, foot and toes. Common peroneal nerve dysfunction is a type of peripheral neuropathy (damage to nerves outside the brain or spinal cord). This condition can affect people of any age. Dysfunction of a single nerve, such as the common peroneal nerve, is called a mononeuropathy. Mononeuropathy means the nerve damage occurred in one area. Certain body-wide conditions can also cause single nerve injuries.

Damage to the nerve disrupts the myelin sheath that covers the axon (branch of the nerve cell). The axon can also be injured, which causes more severe symptoms.

Common causes of damage to the peroneal nerve include trauma to the knee, fractures to the fibula, long term constriction of the lower leg, crossing legs regularly, pressure to the knee during sleep. Commonly peroneal nerve injury is seen in people who are very thin, have autoimmune conditions, have nerve damage from other medical problems, or have Charcot-Marie-Toothe disease, an inherited disorder that affects all the nerves.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

The petrous apex refers to a portion of the temporal bone situated approximately two to three inches in from the outer portion of the ear. Fluid-filled cysts, cholesteatomas, cholesterol granulomas, and other types of lesions may develop on the petrous apex and require medical intervention. These lesions are often benign, but the location of the petrous apex can make surgical treatment complex.

For More Information: Skull Base Program of Excellence

A pituitary gland tumor is a group of abnormal cells that grows out of control in your pituitary gland. Most of these tumors are not cancerous. Pituitary cancer is very rare.

The pituitary gland, which is about the size of a pea, controls growth, heart rate, reproduction and much more. It is considered a “master gland” because it tells other glands when to make and secrete more hormones, which in turn control other organs.

So pituitary tumors can cause serious problems, either because of their size (large tumors) or because they make extra hormones your body doesn’t need (functioning tumors). They’re typically treated with surgery, medicine, or radiation.

For More Information: Pituitary Tumor Program of Excellence

Pseudotumor cerebri is a brain condition that causes the same symptoms as a brain tumor: headaches, vision problems, nausea, and dizziness. But it's not a tumor. "Pseudotumor"means "false tumor."It's caused by increased pressure around the brain.

It can be hard to tell a pseudotumor from a real tumor. But, getting diagnosed and treated early is essential.

This condition is treated by the entire neurosurgery department. Call (720) 848-2080 to make an adult appointment, or (720) 777-6100 for children

Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign (non-cancerous) fluid-filled growths that develop between the parts of the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. They are congenital deformities, meaning that they develop while a fetus is growing in the womb. An RCC develops from a piece of the fetus’ developing Rathke pouch, which ultimately becomes part of the pituitary gland.

Rathke cleft cysts are rare. And, they rarely cause symptoms or problems during childhood, so they are not usually diagnosed in kids. Rather, they are most often found in adults during an MRI scan to diagnose another problem, or even after death, if an autopsy is done. Women are more likely to develop this condition compared to men.

If Rathke cleft cysts become large enough, they can cause vision changes or various problems with the pituitary gland's normal processes.

For More Information: Pituitary Tumor Program of Excellence

This is a rare form of cancer that mainly happens in childhood. Doctors don’t know any way to prevent Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), but there are treatments.

The name rhabdomyosarcoma comes from the type of cells this cancer usually forms in called rhabdomyoblasts. These cells start to form when a human embryo is just a few weeks old. Later, they turn into tissues that make up the skeletal muscles -- the muscles you use to move your body.

Because rhabdomyoblasts are mainly found in developing embryos, the cancer is usually diagnosed in children. About 350 people are diagnosed with RMS every year in the United States. More than half of them are kids younger than 10. It’s very rare for it to be diagnosed in adults, but it can happen.

For More Information:

If the expansion of the aneurysm reaches a point where the wall becomes too thin, the aneurysm will rupture and bleed into the space around the brain. This event is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This catastrophic event requires immediate and urgent medical attention.

For More Information:

Schwannomatosis is an extremely rare genetic disorder closely related to the more-common disorder neurofibromatosis (NF). Originally described in Japanese patients,[1] it consists of multiple cutaneous schwannomas, central nervous system tumors, and other neurological complications, excluding hallmark signs of NF. The exact frequency of schwannomatosis cases is unknown, although some populations have noted frequencies as few as 1 case per 1.7 million people.[2]

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Scoliosis is a medical condition in which a person's spine has a sideways curve. The curve is usually "S"- or "C"-shaped over three dimensions. In some, the degree of curve is stable, while in others, it increases over time. Mild scoliosis does not typically cause problems, but severe cases can interfere with breathing. Typically, no pain is present.

The cause of most cases is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include other affected family members. It can also occur due to another condition such as muscle spasms, cerebral palsy, Marfan syndrome, and tumors such as neurofibromatosis. Diagnosis is confirmed with X-rays.

For More Information:

Skeletal dysplasia is the medical term for what many people refer to as dwarfism. It’s an umbrella term that includes hundreds of conditions that can affect bone and cartilage growth. Types of skeletal dysplasia are generally classified by which parts of the skeleton are involved.

Skeletal dysplasia is a genetic condition. It’s caused by a defect in a specific gene, known as a genetic mutation. Each type of skeletal dysplasia is relatively rare.

For More Information:

Neurofibromas are tumors that arise from the outer sheath of peripheral and cranial nerves. Although neurofibromas may arise sporadically, 90% of neurofibromas are asosociated with neurofibromatosis type I, an autosomal dominant neurocutaneous disorder associated with tumor development throughout the central and peripheral nervous system. Peak presentation is between 20 and 30 years of age, and both males and females can be equally affected. Most neurofibromas are benign tumors, however 5-10% of large neurofibromas may undergo malignant transformation into malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs).

For More Information: Skull Base Program of Excellence

Skull base tumors form in the area under the brain and the bottom part of the skull. Most of these tumors are noncancerous (benign). However, their close proximity to nerves and major blood vessels can put you at risk for life-threatening complications.

Your skull base is made up of multiple bony structures on which your brain sits. It includes the area behind your eyes and nose and forms the bony ridge in the back of your head.

For More Information: Skull Base Program of Excellence

A skull fracture is a break in a bone surrounding the brain. Skull fractures can occur with or without brain damage. Symptoms may include pain, symptoms of brain damage, and, in certain fractures, fluid leaking from the nose or ears or bruises behind the ears or around the eyes.

Skull fractures are not always easy to see. Symptoms that can indicate a fracture include swelling and tenderness around the area impacted, facial bruising, or bleeding from the nostrils or ears. Treatment depends on the severity and type of fracture. Pain medication may be the only treatment needed for mild fractures, while neurosurgery may be required for more serious injuries.

Types of skull fractures include: Closed factures, open fractures, depressed fractures, basal fractures, linear (straight line) or comminuted (broken into three or more sections) fractures.

For More Information: Neuro-Critical Trauma Program of Excellence

The accessory nerve is a cranial nerve that supplies the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles. It is considered as the eleventh of twelve pairs of cranial nerves, or simply cranial nerve XI, as part of it was formerly believed to originate in the brain. The sternocleidomastoid muscle tilts and rotates the head, while the trapezius muscle, connecting to the scapula, acts to shrug the shoulder.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Your spinal cord is the tube that runs from the base of your brain to the bottom of your spine. It houses the nerves that send messages back and forth between your brain and body.

Tumors can grow along the spinal cord, just as they can in other parts of your body, such as the lungs or liver.

A tumor forms in the spinal cord when cells grow too quickly. They can be harmful to you because they can push on and damage the spinal cord.

They can cause symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and even paralysis along both sides of the body.

For More Information:

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that can occur in any age group. Scoliosis is a coronal plane (i.e. side to side) deformity occurring in children, adolescents, and adults. Symptoms vary with age of onset and severity of the curvature; cosmetic problems including sitting imbalance, breathing difficulty or delayed development is common findings in infants and young children. A rib hump, pelvic or shoulder height imbalance tend to common in the adolescent group. Intractable back pain, sciatica, leg weakness or numbness and gait difficulty are common reasons for surgical correction in adults.

Kyphosis

Kyphosis is seen when a person’s spinal balance has moved too far forward to allow the spine to effectively carry the body weight without progressive deformity, pain or neurologic loss of function. Patients typically walk in a forward flexed posture being unable to stand up straight. This condition can also occur along with scoliosis causing Kyphoscoliosis.

For More Information:

Spinal dysraphism is an umbrella term that describes a number of conditions present at birth that affect the spine, spinal cord, or nerve roots.

All forms of spinal dysraphism result from an event very early in an embryo’s development. In about the third week of development, a sheet of cells called the neural plate folds up to form a structure called the neural tube. The top of the neural tube develops into the brain, and the rest of the neural tube develops into the spine and spinal cord. Spinal dysraphism results when a section of the neural tube that will become the spine and spinal cord does not close completely.

Types of spinal dysraphism include myelomeningocele (also known as spina bifida aperta or open spina bifida), spina bifida occulta, split cord malformation (diastematomyelia), spinal cord lipoma (lipomyelomeningocele), dermal sinus tract, tight filum terminale, and tethered spinal cord. A person with spinal dysraphism may have more than one type.

For More Information:

Spina bifida is a neural tube birth defect that prevents a child's vertebrae from forming correctly. The nerves in the spinal cord may be exposed, or form outside of the vertebrae or skin. There are several types of spina bifida. Each type may affect each child in a different way. Issues may include nerve or brain damage leading to learning disabilities, fluid buildup in the brain, or seizures. Sometimes education, self-care and social skills are delayed. Some children may need crutches, braces or wheelchairs and some may have bowel and bladder issues. But, every child and every case is different.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Spinal stenosis is a condition, mostly in adults 50 and older, in which your spinal canal starts to narrow. This can cause pain and other problems.

Your spine is made up of a series of connected bones (or “vertebrae”) and shock-absorbing discs. It protects your spinal cord, a key part of the central nervous system that connects the brain to the body. The cord rests in the canal formed by your vertebrae.

For most people, the stenosis results from changes because of arthritis. The spinal canal may narrow. The open spaces between the vertebrae may start to get smaller. The tightness can pinch the spinal cord or the nerves around it, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in your legs, arms, or torso.

There’s no cure, but there are a variety of surgical and nonsurgical treatments and exercises to keep the pain at bay. Most people with spinal stenosis live normal lives.

For More Information:

The term myelopathy means a problem with the spinal cord, which can lead to numbness, weakness, dysautonomia, and more.1 There are many different possible causes of myelopathy. Infection is not the most common cause, but doctors need to recognize it because infections require different types of treatment. Viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites can all lead to spinal cord damage.

There are numerous causes and types of infections, including viruses, syphilis, tuberculosis, baceterial abscesses, fungal infections, parasitic infections and more. While these infections can be dramatic, frightening, and often serious, the truth is that most of them are treatable if they are appropriately identified, especially if they are found as soon as possible.

For More Information:

A stroke is a medical condition in which poor blood flow to the brain results in cell death.[5] There are two main types of stroke: ischemic, due to lack of blood flow, and hemorrhagic, due to bleeding.[5] Both result in parts of the brain not functioning properly.[5] Signs and symptoms of a stroke may include an inability to move or feel on one side of the body, problems understanding or speaking, dizziness, or loss of vision to one side.[2][3] Signs and symptoms often appear soon after the stroke has occurred.[3] If symptoms last less than one or two hours it is known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini-stroke.[3] A hemorrhagic stroke may also be associated with a severe headache.[3]

For More Information:

Pediatric stroke is a stroke that happens in children or adolescents. Stroke affects about 6 in 100,000 children. Stroke is a leading cause of death in children in the U.S.

Stroke is different in children and newborns than it is in adults. Children have hemorrhagic strokes as often as they have ischemic strokes, while adults are more likely to have ischemic strokes. Sixty percent of pediatric strokes occur in boys. Causes of stroke are also different in children than they are in adult

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Sturge–Weber syndrome, sometimes referred to as encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis, is a rare congenital neurological and skin disorder. It is one of the phakomatoses and is often associated with port-wine stains of the face, glaucoma, seizures, intellectual disability, and ipsilateral leptomeningeal angioma (cerebral malformations and tumors). Sturge–Weber syndrome can be classified into three different types. Type 1 includes facial and leptomeningeal angiomas as well as the possibility of glaucoma or choroidal lesions. Normally, only one side of the brain is affected. This type is the most common. Type 2 involvement includes a facial angioma (port wine stain) with a possibility of glaucoma developing. There is no evidence of brain involvement. Symptoms can show at any time beyond the initial diagnosis of the facial angioma. The symptoms can include glaucoma, cerebral blood flow abnormalities and headaches. More research is needed on this type of Sturge–Weber syndrome. Type 3 has leptomeningeal angioma involvement exclusively. The facial angioma is absent and glaucoma rarely occurs. This type is only diagnosed via brain scan.[1]

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), is a compression neuropathy and painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. This tunnel is found along the inner leg behind the medial malleolus (bump on the inside of the ankle). The posterior tibial artery, tibial nerve, and tendons of the tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus muscles travel in a bundle through the tarsal tunnel. Inside the tunnel, the nerve splits into three segments. One nerve (calcaneal) continues to the heel, the other two (medial and lateral plantar nerves) continue on to the bottom of the foot. The tarsal tunnel is delineated by bone on the inside and the flexor retinaculum on the outside.

Patients with TTS typically complain of numbness in the foot radiating to the big toe and the first three toes, pain, burning, electrical sensations, and tingling over the base of the foot and the heel. Depending on the area of entrapment, other areas can be affected. If the entrapment is high, the entire foot can be affected as varying branches of the tibial nerve can become involved. Ankle pain is also present in patients who have high level entrapments. Inflammation or swelling can occur within this tunnel for a number of reasons. The flexor retinaculum has a limited ability to stretch, so increased pressure will eventually cause compression on the nerve within the tunnel. As pressure increases on the nerves, the blood flow decreases.[1] Nerves respond with altered sensations like tingling and numbness. Fluid collects in the foot when standing and walking and this makes the condition worse. As small muscles lose their nerve supply they can create a cramping feeling.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a group of disorders that occur when blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and your first rib (thoracic outlet) are compressed. This can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers.

Common causes of thoracic outlet syndrome include physical trauma from a car accident, repetitive injuries from job- or sports-related activities, certain anatomical defects (such as having an extra rib), and pregnancy. Sometimes doctors can't determine the cause of thoracic outlet syndrome.

Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome usually involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. Most people improve with these approaches. In some cases, however, your doctor may recommend surgery.

For More Information: Peripheral Nerve Program of Excellence

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is brain dysfunction caused by an outside force, usually a violent blow to the head. Traumatic brain injury often occurs as a result of a severe sports injury or car accident.
Immediate or delayed symptoms may include confusion, blurry vision, and concentration difficulty. Infants may cry persistently or be irritable. Treatment depends upon severity and may involve rest, medication, and/or (in serious cases) neurosurgery.

For More Information: Neuro-Critical Trauma Program of Excellence

A traumatic intracranial hematoma is usually a result of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and can be life threatening. It is a collection of blood within the skull, most commonly caused by rupture of a blood vessel within the brain or from trauma such as a car accident or fall. The blood collection can be within the brain tissue or underneath the skull, pressing on the brain.

For More Information: Neuro-Critical Trauma Program of Excellence

Trigeminal neuralgia is an ongoing pain condition that affects certain nerves in your face. You might also hear it called “tic douloureux.”

People who have this condition say the pain might feel like an electric shock, and it can sometimes be intense.

Doctors have treatments that can help, including medicine and surgery

For More Information:

Brain aneurysms are often undetected until they rupture or burst. A ruptured aneurysm is a serious medical issue, but it is possible to have an unruptured brain aneurysm that may never cause problems.

Once an unruptured aneurysm is identified, a decision needs to be made as to the management options. The recommendation is made depending on the estimated likelihood of the aneurysm to rupture, as well as the age and general health of the patient. The likelihood of rupture is dependent upon specific aneurysm characteristics which include size, shape, and location. For unruptured aneurysms, sometimes no treatment is recommended. Other times, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure.

The aneurysm may be treated with microsurgical clipping or endovascular coiling. During clipping, a neurosurgeon makes a small window in the skull and, using a microscope, isolates the aneurysm. Then, the surgeon affixes a titanium clip to the base of the aneurysm. This clip excludes the aneurysm from the circulation and essentially eliminates the likelihood of it ever rupturing. Microsurgical clipping provides the most long-lasting treatment for aneurysms.

Endovascular coiling is another, less invasive treatment option. For this procedure, the surgeon inserts a catheter through the groin up to the blood vessels in the brain. The surgeon then places metal coils and/or stents in the aneurysm to stop blood from flowing into the aneurysm. Although less invasive, aneurysm growth and rupture are more likely to occur with coiling than with clipping.

Each patient and aneurysm are different; the decision about which procedure to have or whether to have surgery at all depends on the individual case. If you’ve learned you have an aneurysm, seek out an experienced care team at a hospital that knows how to perform both procedures.

For More Information:

There are many vascular abnormalities that occur in children. Some of these include aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and moyamoya disease. These and many other conditions may be treated with medications, surgery and other approaches.

For More Information: Pediatric Neurosurgery

A vestibular schwannoma (VS) is a benign primary intracranial tumor of the myelin-forming cells of the vestibulocochlear nerve (8th cranial nerve). A type of schwannoma, this tumor arises from the Schwann cells responsible for the myelin sheath that helps keep peripheral nerves insulated.

Although it is also called an acoustic neuroma, this is a misnomer for two reasons. First, the tumor usually arises from the vestibular division of the vestibulocochlear nerve, rather than the cochlear division. Second, it is derived from the Schwann cells of the associated nerve, rather than the actual neurons (neuromas).

Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 cases are diagnosed each year in the United States (6 to 9 per million persons). Most recent publications suggest that the incidence of vestibular schwannomas has been rising because of advances in MRI scanning.

For More Information:

family 336

“Today was a BIG day for me as a runner. It was the first time I have jogged 3 miles since my tumor was removed. What a perfect day to share my progress!!! Please let Dr. Youssef know how grateful we are for him and his team. Thank you to everyone for all that you do!”
CU Neurosurgery Patient

brainMRI-350

“I'm feeling GREAT! Dr. Duhon and the entire CU team have been amazing! The entire surgical experience has really exceeded my expectations. Thank you all so much for all you do!”
JS, CU Neurosurgery Patient

bedside 300

“I had the privilege of having Dr. Lillehei and his team perform some cutting edge procedures to remove cancerous growth, chondrosarcoma, in the base of my skull and spine, C1 and C2,through the roof of my mouth. That was back in July 2012. It's now May 2020 and I'm thankful for every day since that I've been given. My follow up visits with Dr. Finn over the last eight years have gradually been further and further apart. I've always looked forward to seeing him! Dr. Finn, see ya in two years, yahoo!”
CU Neurosurgery Patient

strokewalk 300

“After 4 failed pain injections I finally found a doctor that will help me. Dr. Lennarson was superb. He answered any and all questions without hesitation and made sure I was comfortable with everything. His staff of Lawrence, Ebony, and Carl were also standouts.”
DF, CU Neurosurgery Patient

Tools & Resources

CU Campuses

CU Anschutz Medical Campus

Department of Neurosurgery

School of Medicine

Patient Resources

Conditions We Treat A-Z

Paranasal sinuses

Programs of Excellence

General Patient Information

Directions to Hospitals

Make an Appointment

Referrals

More About Some Conditions

Neurosurgery (SOM)

Patient Resources

Conditions We Treat A-Z

Achondroplasia

Acoustic Neuroma

Acromegaly

Adenoma

Alzheimer’s Disease

Anaplastic Astrocytoma

Aneurysms

Arachnoid Cysts

Arnold-Chiari Malformation

Arteriovenous Fistula (AVF or DAVF)

Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)

Astrocytoma

Astrocytoma – in children

Atypical Parkinsonism

Benign Rolandic Epilepsy

Brachial Plexus Injury

Brain Aneurysm

Brain Stem Glioma

Brain Tumors

Brain Tumors in Children

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carotid Stenosis

Cavernous Malformation

Cerebral Aneurism

Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak (CSF Leak)

Cerebrovascular Insufficiency

Cervical and Lumbar Disc Herniation

Cervical Myelopathy

Chiari Malformation (see…Arnold Chiari Malformation under “A”)

Chondroma

Chondrosarcoma

Chordoma

Choroid Plexus Tumor

Concussion

Congenital Malformations of the Brain and Spine

Convexity Meningioma

Craniofacial Syndromes

Craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngioma in children

Craniosynostosis / Craniostenosis

Cushing’s Disease

Degenerative Spine Conditions

Dementia

Diabetes Insipidus

Dysembryoplastic Neuroepithelial Tumors

Dystonia

Encephaloceles

Ependymoma

Ependymomas in children

Epidural Hematoma

Epilepsy

Epilepsy in Children

Essential Tremor

Esthesioneuroblastoma (Olfactory Neuroblastoma)

Fibrillary Astrocytoma

Fibrous Dysplasia

Foot Drop Injury

Generalized Seizures

Germ Cell Tumor

Giant Cell Tumor

Gliomas (including Glioplastoma multiforme)

Glioblastoma Multiforme in Children

Hemangiopericytoma

Hyperprolactinemia

Hydrocephalus

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH)

Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma

Low CSF Headache

Malignant Nerve Sheath Tumors

Medulloblastoma

Miningiomas

Meralgia Paresthetica

Metastatic Brain Tumor

Mild Cognitive Impairment

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Mixed Glioma

Moyamoya Disease

Myoclonic Astatic Epilepsy