Frequently Asked Questions

Neurovascular medicine is a subspecialty focused on the blood vessels of the brain and spinal cord. It involves the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect these vessels, including blockages, weakening, and bleeding — using both minimally invasive endovascular techniques and open surgical approaches when necessary.

Neurosurgery is a broad field covering all surgical treatments of the nervous system. Neurovascular surgery is a focused subspecialty within that field that deals specifically with blood vessels of the brain and spine. Our specialists use advanced endovascular (minimally invasive, catheter-based) techniques as well as open surgical approaches to treat these vascular conditions.

You can schedule a consultation by calling our office at (833) 4-CORTEX or by using the contact form on our website. Our team will help coordinate your appointment and gather any necessary records or referral information.

Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, any relevant imaging studies (on CD or USB), a list of current medications, and any referral paperwork from your referring physician. For a detailed checklist, visit our Patient Resources page.

We accept most major insurance plans. Our office staff will verify your benefits before your appointment and can help you understand your coverage. If you have questions about a specific plan, please contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.

Referral requirements vary by insurance plan. Some plans require a referral from your primary care physician, while others allow direct access to specialists. Our scheduling team can help determine whether a referral is needed for your visit.

Most neurovascular procedures are performed in a specialized catheterization lab. You will receive appropriate sedation or anesthesia, and the procedure typically involves a small puncture in the groin or wrist to access the blood vessels. Using real-time X-ray guidance, the specialist navigates to the target area to diagnose or treat the condition. Your team will explain exactly what to expect before your specific procedure.

Neurovascular procedures are performed under sedation or anesthesia, so you should not experience pain during the procedure itself. Some mild discomfort at the access site (groin or wrist) is common afterward, and your care team will provide guidance on managing any post-procedure soreness.

Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure and your overall health. Many endovascular procedures have shorter recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. Some patients go home the same day or the next day, while others may require a short hospital stay. Your care team will provide specific guidance tailored to your procedure.