Dr. André Turmel – Neurosurgeon | Québec, QC

Dr. André Turmel is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at Bureau d’évaluation medicale in Québec City, QC, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring quality, safety, and professionalism in all aspects of patient care. Dr. Turmel provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. His approach emphasizes precise diagnostics and individualized treatment plans, utilizing advanced surgical techniques to optimize patient outcomes. The practice is committed to creating a supportive environment where patients can access expert neurosurgical care with confidence.

He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 37 years of experience as a Neurosurgeon since 1987. Throughout his career, Dr. Turmel has completed extensive postgraduate training in neurosurgical care, acquiring all necessary certifications to practice in Québec. His longstanding expertise ensures that patients benefit from evidence-based, innovative surgical interventions tailored to their specific conditions.

Guided by a philosophy of patient safety, precision surgery, and multidisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Turmel is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of neurosurgical care to the Québec City community. He utilizes advanced technology and adheres to best practices in clinical management, ensuring comprehensive post-operative support. Fluent in French, he is committed to clear communication and compassionate patient engagement, making sure each individual understands their diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery process.

Dr. André Turmel surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders

• Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
• Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.
• Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.

Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions

• Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
• Movement Disorders (Parkinson's, Essential Tremor, Dystonia - for DBS evaluation): Evaluation for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery for patients with movement disorders not adequately controlled by medication.
• Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.

Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)

• Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH - select cases for evacuation): Bleeding within the brain tissue itself, where surgical evacuation may be considered for large or life-threatening hematomas.
• 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.

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

• Management of Brachial Plexus & Lumbosacral Plexus Injuries (Surgical Repair/Grafting in select cases): Complex surgical interventions for injuries to major nerve networks.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
• Chiari Malformation Decompression: Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the cerebellum and brainstem caused by Chiari malformation.
• Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
• Spinal Fusion & Instrumentation (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): Surgical stabilization of the spine using bone grafts and/or metallic hardware for conditions like instability, deformity, or after trauma/tumor resection.
• Surgery for Spinal Trauma & Fractures: Decompression and stabilization procedures for injuries to the spinal column and spinal cord.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.

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

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Located within the historic Vieux-Québec (Upper Town) neighborhood, the Bureau d’évaluation medicale offers convenient access for patients seeking neurosurgical consultation and evaluation. This practice is situated on a vibrant historic shopping street (Lower Town), easily accessible via public transit provided by the Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC). The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, providing flexibility and convenience for patients and visitors.

Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Turmel, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Turmel, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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. Turmel's office, the hospital's financial services, or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) prior to any major procedure.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Turmel, 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. Turmel. 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 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. Turmel and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.

What does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Turmel 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. Turmel performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.

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. Turmel will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.

Bureau d’évaluation medicale
300-200 Ch Sainte-Foy
Québec City, QC G1R 5T4

Phone: (418) 643-5899

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Turmel is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Turmel for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=87666