Functional Neurosurgery

The Division of Functional Neurosurgery treats patients with intractable epilepsy in the context of a Level 4 comprehensive epilepsy program with two, additional full-time epileptologists, video EEG beds, functional MRI program, in collaboration with the Departments of Neurology, Neuroradiology, and Neuropsychology. In terms of treating painful neurological syndromes, we have one of the largest Trigeminal Neuralgia practices in the Chicago area and our surgenons have published on microvascular decompression, motor cortex stimulation, deep brain stimulation (DBS), and an innovative procedure –anterior pontine tractotomy. We provide patients with dorsal column stimulation in collaboration with our Pain Clinic physicians. Treatment of movement disorders in conjunction with movement disorder specialists in the Department of Neurology includes patients with Parkinson’s Disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. We have IRB-approved studies in DBS for severe progressive spastic dystonia in children and intractable Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We collaborate with neurologists on surgical treatment of severe, intractable cluster headaches.  It is an especially exciting time in Functional Neurosurgery with many opportunities for innovation and research. Dr. Douglas Anderson directs these efforts.