About
Dr. Blaise Mathew Wheatley 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 Edmonton, AB, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. Dr. Wheatley adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring safe and effective neurosurgical care. His role encompasses providing comprehensive surgical interventions for a wide range of conditions impacting the nervous system, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. He is committed to delivering patient-centered care in a supportive environment, utilizing advanced surgical techniques to optimize outcomes and recovery.
He has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice neurosurgery (Surgical Care of the Brain, Spine, and Nerves) in Alberta. Dr. Wheatley graduated with an MD (Doctor of Medicine) from the University of Alberta (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His training and certification reflect his expertise and dedication to maintaining the highest standards of neurosurgical practice.
Dr. Wheatley's clinical philosophy emphasizes patient safety, precision in surgical techniques, and the utilization of cutting-edge technology. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care, from initial diagnosis through post-operative management. Fluent in English, he is committed to providing clear, compassionate communication to his patients in Edmonton. His approach prioritizes individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique condition and needs.
Dr. Blaise Wheatley 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.
- Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
- Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
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.
- Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
- Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Blaise Wheatley.
- Cavernous Malformation Resection: Surgical removal of abnormal clusters of small blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord that can cause bleeding or seizures.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- 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.
- Nerve Biopsy for Diagnostic Purposes: Obtaining a small sample of a peripheral nerve for pathological examination.
- 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.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clipping & Coiling (Endovascular coiling often with Interventional Neuroradiology): Surgical or endovascular treatment to secure brain aneurysms and prevent rupture or re-rupture.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Wheatley 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.
Dr. Wheatley's practice is situated within a neurosurgery clinic at a major hospital in Edmonton's S Central neighbourhood, including areas such as the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park. The facility is conveniently located near the Botanical Gardens (Pyramids) and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots provide convenient options for visitors.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Wheatley, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Wheatley, 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. Wheatley'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. Wheatley, 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. Wheatley. 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 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. Wheatley 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. Wheatley 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.
8440 112 St NW, 8440 - 112 street
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7
Phone: (780) 407-3567
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Wheatley 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. Wheatley 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=26296dc6-9064-4738-8ca2-1388fe0652d1&i=1543