Headache

Index

  • Aneurysm
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Migraine and Cluster headache
  • Post Concussional Disorders
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia

    • Aneurysm

    An aneurysm is a thin-walled blister on a blood vessel inside the head. These develop over time and are most common in people with high blood pressure. They rarely run in families. Aneurysms have a tendency to rupture and bleed, with potentially catastrophic results. In those people who survive such an episode, surgery is often employed to repair these weak areas. In some instances, aneurysms are discovered on a CT scan or MRI scan, and can be treated surgically before they rupture, thereby markedly reducing the risk to the person harboring the aneurysm.

    Aneurysm surgery is technically challenging. Using a team approach with neuroradiologists, the surgeons of New England Neurological Associates use advanced imaging techniques, such as Spiral CT, to produce three-dimensional computer generated images of the aneurysm and its surrounding vessels. At the time of surgery, an arteriogram is performed in the operating room. This confirms succesful treatment and allows immediate correction of any potential problem, thereby improving outcomes and patient safety. These advanced methods are not widely available throughout the country at this time, but they are highly desirable and allow safer treatment of complex aneurysms.


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    Diagnostic Imaging

    24 Hour Electroencephalographic (EEG) Monitoring.

    Brain wave electrodes are attached to a portable recorder which is carried for 24 hours to study the brain's electrical activity to aid in the diagnosis of seizures and other neurological conditions.

    Arteriogram (angiogram).

    An X-Ray where dye is injected into an artery to study the blood vessels supplying the brain and within the brain.

    Carotid Ultrasound Testing.

    This test permits us to diagnose abnormalities of the carotid artery, such as arteriosclerosis, using safe and painless high frequency sound waves without radiation.

    Computerized Axial Tomography (CT or CAT Scan).

    A computer-assisted X-Ray which constructs sophisticated, two dimensional pictures of the body, head and spine to aid in the diagnosis of many disorders of the brain, spine, lungs, abdomen and pelvis. In some instances, intravenous dye is used to obtain a better picture.

    Electrodiagnostic Testing (EMG & Nerve Conduction Tests).

    Through mild electrical stimuli, this test measures the electrical activity in muscles and the functioning of nerves for the diagnosis of various disorders of the nerves, muscles and spinal cord. As small needles are inserted to transmit and record the electrical activity, this procedure may cause slight discomfort.

    Evoked Potentials Testing.

    Disorders of the nerves, spinal cord and brain stem as well as visual and hearing pathways can safely and effectively be studied by this test, which combines electrodiagnostic studies and sophisticated computerized EEG recordings.

    Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)/Angiography.

    Using a powerful magnetic field, radio-waves, and computer reconstruction, MRI produces high resolution images of the brain, spine, joints, chest and abdomen. Vascular imaging studies can also be provided with MR Angiography. The imaging process is non-invasive, safe and painless without using radiation.

    Myelogram.

    Contrast medium is injected into the back to aid in diagnosis of herniated discs of the cervical and lumbar spines as well as many other spinal disorders.

    Transcranial Doppler Studies.

    Transcranial Doppler uses the same painless high frequency sound waves as carotid ultrasound to examine the arteries inside the brain to help treat and prevent strokes.


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    Migraine and Cluster headache


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    Post Concussional Disorders

    Established by the doctors of New England Neurological Associates, the Post-Concussional Program serves patients with intractable post-concussional symptoms such as headaches, neck pain, behavioral changes and emotional or cognitive dysfunction.


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    Trigeminal Neuralgia

    Trigeminal neuralgia is a severe, intermittent pain that occurs on one side of the face. The pain represents hyperactivity of the nerve for sensation in the face. It is usually caused by pressure from a blood vessel pulsing against the nerve near the brain. It is occasionally caused by other neurologic diseases.

    The primary treatment of trigeminal neuralgia is with medication. If the medicines do not provide adequate relief, surgery may be offered. For most patients, the operation involves moving the offending artery away from the nerve and placing a pad between them (the "Jannetta procedure"). For other people, an injection of medication into the space around the nerve settles the hyperactivity without damaging the nerve (glycerol rhizotomy).

    Dr. Bruce Cook, a New England Neurological Associates neurosurgeon, is particularly interested in the surgical treatment of trigeminal neuralgia and did extensive training with Dr. Jannetta, who developed the operation which is the most effective treatment for this condition.


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    Disclaimer: The information and references contained herein are intended solely for the information. It should not be used for treatment purposes, but rather for discussion with the patient's own physician.
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