Dr. Ashish Kumar – Neurosurgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Ashish Kumar is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing within a neurosurgery department at a major hospital in Toronto, ON, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective care. Dr. Kumar 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 precision, safety, and patient-centered care, utilizing advanced surgical techniques to optimize outcomes. He is committed to supporting adult patients through every stage of their neurosurgical treatment journey, fostering a reassuring environment for recovery and well-being.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Shivaji University in India and has accumulated over 4 years of experience as a Neurosurgeon since 2020. He is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), which affirms his specialized expertise in neurosurgical care. His medical training and certification reflect a strong foundation in the latest surgical practices and clinical standards relevant to adult neurosurgical patients.

Dr. Kumar’s clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, meticulous surgical planning, and the use of innovative technology. He emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care. His dedication to excellence extends to providing thorough pre-operative assessments, precision in surgical execution, and attentive post-operative support. Fluent in English, he is committed to clear communication and compassionate care for patients in Toronto and the surrounding community.

Dr. Ashish Kumar surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions

• 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.
• Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.

Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)

• Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs) of the Brain & Spine: Tangles of abnormal blood vessels connecting arteries and veins, which can disrupt normal blood flow and risk rupture.
• Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
• 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.

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.
• Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
• Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.

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

• Hydrocephalus Management (VP Shunt, ETV - Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy): Surgical treatment for abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, including shunt placement/revision and endoscopic procedures.
• 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.
• Nerve Biopsy for Diagnostic Purposes: Obtaining a small sample of a peripheral nerve for pathological examination.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
• 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.
• Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
• Spinal Cord Tumor Resection/Biopsy: Surgical removal or biopsy of tumors located within or around the spinal cord or spinal column.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Kumar 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. Kumar's practice is located within a neurosurgery department at a prominent hospital in Toronto's Lawrence Park neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near major landmarks such as the Scotiabank Arena and Nathan Phillips Square, offering an accessible environment for patients. It is well-served by public transit options including TTC subway, streetcar, and bus services. The hospital premises are wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing flexibility for those arriving by car. The setting offers a comfortable, professional environment dedicated to providing high-quality neurosurgical care in Toronto.

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

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Kumar, 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. Kumar'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. Kumar, 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. Kumar. 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. Kumar and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.

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

Suite 306, 2075 Bayview Ave
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Phone: (416) 480-6100 | Fax: (416) 480-6085

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kumar 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. Kumar 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/Kumar-Ashish/0289825-101868