About Neuromodulation and Functional Neurosurgery

Functional neurosurgery broadly deals with procedures that modify the functioning of the nervous system, from the brain itself down to peripheral nerves in the arm or leg. This can be done through a variety of techniques, such as removing an area of the brain causing seizures, infusing medication directly into the spinal fluid, or using an electrical stimulator on the brain or spinal cord to improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease or chronic pain.

Functional neurosurgeons work with people experiencing such neurological disorders as complex regional pain syndrome, epilepsy, essential tremor, dystonia, Parkinson’s disease, nerve injuries, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, trigeminal neuralgia, Tourette syndrome, failed back surgery syndrome, and brain trauma. At Northwestern Medicine, we continue to expand the boundaries of this field and improve the quality of life of patients.

The Neuromodulation and Functional Neurosurgery Program specialists collaborate in integrated teams to provide patients with a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to their care, including:

• Assessment by a fellowship-trained neurologist in movement disorders or epilepsy
• Neurosurgical procedures including deep brain stimulation, epilepsy surgery, pain surgery, intrathecal medication infusion and other therapeutic procedures
• The opportunity to participate in clinical research trials
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• Social work services: consultation, counseling, support groups, and access to community services and resources
• Educational programs
• Learning materials, including: books, videos, audiotapes and internet resources
• Neuropsychology services

The Neuromodulation and Functional Neurosurgery Program is one of the leading programs in the Midwest, combining advanced technology and using innovative techniques to give hope to patients who have been told there was no hope.