About
Dr. Alim Mitha is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at Alim Mitha Clinic Calgary in Calgary, AB, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based neurosurgical care. Dr. Mitha provides comprehensive surgical solutions for a wide spectrum of conditions affecting the nervous system, including trauma, tumors, degenerative diseases, and vascular anomalies. His approach emphasizes patient-centered care, utilizing advanced surgical techniques within a supportive environment to optimize outcomes and improve quality of life for his patients.
He holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Alberta (Canada) and is certified as a Neurosurgeon, with key credentials including LMCC and FRCSC in Neurosurgery. These certifications reflect his rigorous training and commitment to maintaining professional excellence in neurosurgical practice. Dr. Mitha continually updates his skills through ongoing education and professional development, ensuring that his patients benefit from the latest advancements in the field.
Guided by a philosophy of patient safety, precision surgery, and multidisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Mitha is dedicated to delivering personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. He utilizes state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based protocols, providing clear communication and compassionate support throughout the surgical journey. Fluent in English, he strives to foster an environment of trust and understanding, empowering patients and their families to make informed decisions about their neurosurgical treatment options.
Dr. Alim Mitha surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.
- Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (severe cases requiring surgery): Compression of the median nerve at the wrist, where surgery (carpal tunnel release) may be indicated if conservative treatments fail.
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
- Spasticity (severe, for Baclofen pump or selective dorsal rhizotomy consideration): Severe muscle stiffness and spasms, potentially managed with implantable drug delivery systems or nerve root surgery.
- Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Alim Mitha.
- Surgical Management of Hemorrhagic Stroke (e.g., Hematoma Evacuation): Procedures to remove blood clots and relieve pressure on the brain after certain types of strokes.
- Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) & Dural Fistula Treatment (Surgical Resection, Embolization, Radiosurgery Coordination): Multimodal approaches to treat abnormal connections between arteries and veins in the brain or spinal cord.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Implantation & Management (for Movement Disorders, Epilepsy, Pain): Surgical placement of electrodes in specific brain areas and programming of the stimulation device for conditions like Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, or epilepsy.
- Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- 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.
- Surgery for Degenerative Spine Disease (e.g., Herniated Discs, Spinal Stenosis): Procedures such as microdiscectomy, laminectomy, and foraminotomy to relieve nerve compression and pain.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Mitha 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Alim Mitha Clinic Calgary is situated within a prominent medical facility in Calgary's NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), making it easy for patients to reach from various parts of the city. The practice is located near the Pedestrian Mall Downtown, providing a vibrant and accessible environment. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available, ensuring convenient access for those arriving by car. As a key neurosurgical unit within a larger hospital complex, the clinic offers advanced facilities and a multidisciplinary team dedicated to high-quality patient care.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Mitha, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Mitha, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Mitha's office, the hospital's financial services, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Mitha, 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. Mitha. 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 are the general risks associated with neurosurgery?
- All surgical procedures carry some risks. For neurosurgery, these can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and neurological deficits (such as weakness, numbness, or problems with speech or vision), depending on the area being operated on. There's also the risk that the surgery may not fully alleviate the symptoms or that the underlying condition may recur. Dr. Mitha will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
- How is a brain tumor typically treated by a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Mitha?
- The treatment for a brain tumor depends on its type, size, location, and the patient's overall health. For many tumors, surgical resection (removal) by a neurosurgeon like Dr. Mitha is a primary treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible. Surgery may also be done to obtain a biopsy for diagnosis. Often, surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach that may also include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, coordinated with oncologists and radiation oncologists.
- 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. Mitha 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.
- When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?
- A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Mitha is typically made by another physician when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical intervention or specialized neurosurgical assessment. This can include brain tumors, spinal disc herniations causing severe nerve compression, spinal stenosis, traumatic brain or spine injuries, cerebral aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), hydrocephalus, some forms of epilepsy, or peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes not responding to conservative treatment.
- What is recovery like after neurosurgery?
- Recovery from neurosurgery varies greatly depending on the type and complexity of the surgery, the underlying condition being treated, and the individual patient's overall health. It can range from a few weeks for some minimally invasive spine procedures to several months or longer for major brain or complex spine surgeries. Recovery often involves a hospital stay, followed by a period of rest and rehabilitation, which may include physical, occupational, or speech therapy. Dr. Mitha and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
Alim Mitha Clinic Calgary
1403 29 St NW, Foothills Medical Centre
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Phone: (403) 944-4550 | Fax: (403) 944-8712
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Mitha is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Mitha for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=d8f0ac9e-b49d-470a-998a-703ee05a0ed0&i=994