Skull Base Surgery in New York, NY
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Contact UsWhat is Skull Base Surgery?
Dr. Raymond Sekula performs skull base surgery to address abnormalities at the bony surface beneath the brain. The skull base, housing many vital structures and separating the brain from facial features, is divided into three regions: the anterior cranial fossa, the middle cranial fossa, and the posterior cranial fossa, each at different levels. This region is critical as it contains the brainstem, which connects the brain and spinal cord and controls vital functions, and the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordination and balance. Historically challenging to access, surgical advances and improved neuroimaging now allow for effective treatment of skull base abnormalities with ongoing advancements leading to less invasive procedures. Techniques include traditional craniotomy, which can now be performed minimally invasively, and transsphenoidal surgery, a procedure done through the nostrils or inside of the mouth with an endoscope, allowing for small and usually invisible incisions. To learn more about skull base surgery, contact Dr. Raymond Sekula at his office inside The Neurological Institute of New York in New York, NY.
What Can I Expect after Skull Base Surgery?
Skull base surgery may be performed by Dr. Sekula when a brain abnormality is found near the skull base. Conservative options, such as medication, are usually considered first, but surgery usually becomes the primary treatment to address the abnormality. Patients who undergo transsphenoidal surgery typically stay in the hospital for 1 – 2 days while those who undergo a craniotomy may stay around one week. After surgery, Dr. Sekula provides specific instructions to aid recovery, including prescribed medications, activity restrictions, and scheduling follow-up appointments to assess the patient's progress and determine if further treatment is needed.
Dr. Raymond Sekula Reviews
I had suffered with hemifacial spasms on the left side of my face for around six years. After hearing about Dr. Sekula’s success with this condition, I flew from Alabama to New York City to have surgery on June 12. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made! I went through testing the day before my surgery, and the MRI revealed that I had a vein on my facial nerve instead of an artery. Dr. Sekula explained that this is much more rare and outcomes for success not quite as good. I really appreciated his complete honesty with me. But after discussing this with my daughter and prayer, we decided to go ahead with the surgery. What was normally a one and a half to two hour surgery took about four hours in my case. But from the moment I woke up in the recovery room I have not had a single spasm since, and I am writing this three months later. I did have some facial weakness on the left side but this is slowly improving as Dr. Sekula predicted. I can not thank this compassionate and skilled surgeon enough! And I thank God for leading me to him!! Dr. Sekula and his whole team are very professional and caring individuals. I can highly recommend them!
Dr. Sekula did trigeminal neuralgia rhizotomy surgery on my wife and he was caring, understanding and came by before and after surgery which does not always happen. He is a wonderful surgeon and he is a compassionate doctor. So far she is in remission which is great and it is all thanks to him and his team. Caroline is great and supports you every step of the way. I can’t speak highly enough about Dr. Sekula and his team.
Dr. Sekula performed a procedure (MVD) to alleviate a hemi-facial spasm that had plagued me for many years. The surgery was a resounding success; I am completely spasm free and I couldn't be more grateful to Dr. Sekula and all the support staff at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.
Dr. Sekula is an exceptional neurosurgeon who performed my MVD surgery on June 11, 2024, to treat Trigeminal Neuralgia. His surgical skills and professionalism are the best. His knowledge and reassuring demeanor helped my wife and I decide that MVD surgery would offer me the best path forward. And it has!! I am now pain free and my life has been changed! Thank you, Dr. Sekula, Caroline and the entire team!
Really grateful to Dr. Sekula and happy that he is in NYC at NY-Presbyterian/Columbia. When I started looking into treatment for hemifacial spasm, Dr. Sekula's name repeatedly came up as one of the top neurosurgeon for hemifacial spasm but was getting information that he was based in PA. I would have travelled to PA based on many positive feedback regarding his expertise and kind easy-going demeanor. For my first appointment with Dr. Sekula, I came with a list of questions but he covered almost all of them before I asked. His approach is honest and grounded but reassuring that he is able to help my condition. I had MVD surgery with Dr. Sekula in May of this year (2024). I woke up from surgery spasm free. Even thru the initial side effects of surgery such as nausea and headaches, I was very grateful for a positive result. Dr. Sekula gave me "re-start" as hemifacial spasm is a very debilitating condition. Dr. Sekula has an awesome team in Caroline and Brianna. Very helpful and responsive throughout pre and post op. I found the pre-op screening/appointments were easy to get done thru the hospital. Also grateful to the staff at NY- Presbyterian's 8 Hudson South as they were awesome during my hospital stay.
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What Are the Benefits of Skull Base Surgery?
Skull base surgery has evolved significantly, offering patients effective treatment options for abnormalities located at the base of the skull. Advancements in surgical techniques and neuroimaging have led to less invasive procedures with improved outcomes. Benefits of this surgery include:
- Precise access to hard-to-reach areas of the skull base and brain
- Minimally invasive techniques that reduce recovery time
- Preservation of critical structures, such as nerves and blood vessels
- Lower risk of complications compared to open surgery
- Effective treatment for tumors, cysts, and vascular abnormalities
- Improved symptom management and overall quality of life
Learn More About Neurological Institute of NY
About UsSchedule An Appointment Today
If you are facing a brain abnormality near the skull base, trust in the skill and compassionate care of Dr. Raymond Sekula in New York, NY. Whether it's exploring conservative treatment options or moving forward with surgery, Dr. Sekula ensures personalized care every step of the way. Don't let uncertainty loom over your health; schedule a consultation today at his office in The Neurological Institute of New York to better understand your options.
Skull Base Surgery FAQs
How does the location of the skull base condition affect potential complications?
The location of the condition within the skull base can significantly influence the type and severity of potential complications. For example, conditions near cranial nerves may increase the risk of nerve damage, leading to issues such as facial weakness, hearing loss, or difficulty swallowing. Similarly, conditions close to major blood vessels can increase the risk of bleeding or stroke. The surgical team carefully considers these factors when planning the procedure to minimize complications.
What are the advancements in technology that have improved skull base surgery?
Recent advancements in technology have greatly enhanced the safety and effectiveness of skull base surgery. Innovations such as intraoperative MRI, neuronavigation systems, and high-definition endoscopes allow surgeons to perform procedures with greater precision. These technologies help reduce the risk of complications, improve surgical outcomes, and allow for more complex conditions to be treated successfully. Additionally, advancements in anesthesia and postoperative care have contributed to faster recovery times and better overall patient experiences.
What are the common conditions treated with skull base surgery?
Skull base surgery is used to treat a variety of conditions, including benign and malignant tumors, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, vascular anomalies, and certain congenital defects. These conditions can affect vital structures such as the brain, cranial nerves, and major blood vessels, making surgical intervention necessary. Skull base surgery is also used to treat infections and inflammatory diseases that can affect the area.