Dr. Mark Aaron Bernstein – Neurosurgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Mark Aaron Bernstein is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at a neurosurgery department within a major hospital in Toronto, ON, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. He provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. His practice is committed to utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment.

Dr. Bernstein graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa, Canada. With over 40 years of experience as a Neurosurgeon since 1984, he has built a reputation for excellence in neurosurgical care. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring adherence to the highest standards of medical practice and ethics.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the use of cutting-edge technology to optimize outcomes. Dr. Bernstein believes in a multidisciplinary approach, working closely with colleagues across specialties to provide comprehensive care. He is dedicated to ongoing education and patient communication, ensuring that individuals in Toronto receive the best possible neurosurgical treatment. Fluent in both English and French, he is committed to serving a diverse patient population with compassion and professionalism.

Dr. Mark Bernstein surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)

• Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.
• Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
• Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.

Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)

• Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
• Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.
• Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.

Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders

• Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
• Spinal Stenosis (Cervical, Lumbar): Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
• Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Mark Bernstein.

• Non-Operative Management of Select Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing conservative management options when surgery is not immediately indicated, including observation, medication management referrals, and pain management strategies.
• Stereotactic Radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife, CyberKnife) Planning & Coordination: Collaborating with radiation oncologists for non-invasive, highly focused radiation treatment for brain tumors, AVMs, and other neurological conditions.
• Interpretation of Advanced Neuroimaging (MRI, CT, Angiography, Myelography): Expert analysis of specialized imaging of the brain, spinal cord, and vasculature to guide diagnosis and surgical decision-making.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
• Surgery for Degenerative Spine Disease (e.g., Herniated Discs, Spinal Stenosis): Procedures such as microdiscectomy, laminectomy, and foraminotomy to relieve nerve compression and pain.
• Epilepsy Surgery (e.g., Temporal Lobectomy, Lesionectomy, Corpus Callosotomy - in selected cases): Surgical interventions for medically refractory epilepsy, aimed at removing or disconnecting the seizure focus.
• Surgical Treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes (e.g., Microvascular Decompression): Procedures to alleviate severe facial pain caused by nerve compression or dysfunction.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Bernstein for care relevant to your specific condition.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Bernstein practices at a neurosurgery clinic within a reputable hospital in Toronto's vibrant Kensington Market, Chinatown, and Grange Park neighbourhoods. The facility is conveniently located near the US Consulate and is easily accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing convenience for those arriving by private vehicle. The practice is committed to providing accessible, patient-centered care in a welcoming environment.

Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Bernstein, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Bernstein, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some advanced technologies, specific implantable devices, or purely elective/cosmetic procedures may have different coverage. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Bernstein's office, the hospital's financial services, or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) prior to any major procedure.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Bernstein, a Neurosurgeon?

Yes, a referral from your family physician, an emergency room physician, or another specialist (like a neurologist or oncologist) is almost always required to see a Neurosurgeon such as Dr. Bernstein. Neurosurgical conditions are typically complex and require initial assessment and investigation before a neurosurgical consultation is appropriate. The referral ensures coordinated care and that you are directed to the right specialist.

What does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Bernstein specialize in?

A Neurosurgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the surgical treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, cerebrovascular system (blood vessels of the brain and spine), and peripheral nerves. He is a Neurosurgeon specializing in surgical treatment of the brain, spine, and nerves. Dr. Bernstein performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.

What types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Bernstein treat surgically?

Neurosurgeons like Dr. Bernstein who specialize in spine surgery treat a variety of conditions affecting the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (low-back) spine. These can include herniated discs causing nerve compression, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra), spinal fractures due to trauma, spinal tumors, and spinal deformities. Surgical procedures aim to decompress nerves, stabilize the spine, or remove tumors.

What are some common procedures a Neurosurgeon performs?

Neurosurgeons perform a wide variety of intricate procedures. Common surgeries include craniotomies (opening the skull) for brain tumor removal, aneurysm clipping, or hematoma evacuation; spinal surgeries like laminectomies or discectomies for nerve decompression, and spinal fusions for instability; and placement of shunts for hydrocephalus. Dr. Bernstein would be able to discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition. Many neurosurgeons also have subspecialty interests, such as pediatric neurosurgery, spine surgery, or vascular neurosurgery.

Suite 200A, 399 Bathurst Street
Toronto, ON M5T 2S8

Phone: (416) 603-6499 | Fax: (416) 603-5298

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Bernstein is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Bernstein for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Bernstein-Mark-Aaron/0036166-50142