Should I See a Neurosurgeon or an Orthopedic Surgeon?

What is the Difference Between a Neurosurgeon and an Orthopedic Surgeon?

Both orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons are both specialists in spine surgery. While they both treat spine conditions, some conditions are best treated by one or the other. Orthopedic surgeons are experts on injuries and conditions of the musculoskeletal system, while neurosurgeons focus on injuries and conditions of the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. Many orthopedic surgeons have specialized training in spinal surgery, but some conditions can only be treated by neurosurgeons. At Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA), we’ll recommend the best provider for you based on your symptoms and diagnosis.

What Medical Issues Can an Orthopedic Surgeon Treat?

An orthopedic surgeon can treat issues that affect the entire musculoskeletal system. While some specialize in spine surgery, they also treat conditions and injuries that affect the hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle. Orthopedic spine surgeons follow a patient from diagnosis and surgery through rehabilitation. While in recovery, patients remain under the supervision of their surgeon through physical therapy to total rehabilitation.

What Medical Issues Require a Neurosurgeon?

Neurosurgeons are skilled in diagnosing and treating diseases or disorders that affect the central and peripheral nervous system, including issues related to the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and spinal column. These issues may include traumatic injury, stroke, spinal infection, congenital anomalies, degenerative diseases of the spine, and brain infection. Conditions such as spinal cord tumors, spina bifida, nerve root cancer, or tumors between the skull and upper spine require operation inside the brain or the dura mater of the spinal cord and, as such, may only be performed by a board-certified Neurosurgeon. These specialists often have little to do with patients after treatment.

Do I Need a Neurosurgeon or Orthopedic Surgeon?

The decision to see a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon depends on your diagnosis and needs. Both types of doctors can treat disc degeneration, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and spine fractures, but certain surgeries require specialized training only neurosurgeons possess. New spinal surgery techniques combine aspects of neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery, allowing for advanced care. Orthopedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons take similar training to become spine specialists. Still, some take additional fellowships to subspecialize in treatment areas such as pediatrics, cervical spine, lumbar spine, or others.
In many cases, a surgeon’s subspecialty is a more significant deciding factor in choosing your provider than whether they are a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon. When selecting a surgeon, it is important to research their educational background and ask about their experience level with the issue you are experiencing. At CONA, our providers are fellowship-trained and board-certified to treat your medical problems.

Spine Specialists in Spartanburg, Duncan, and Greenville, SC

Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) ‘s staff includes neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons prepared to meet your needs. After a complete evaluation, we will create a treatment plan and refer you to the best treatment provider for your condition. Book an appointment online to get started at our Duncan, Spartansburg, or Greenville locations today.