Dr. Douglas James Cook – Neurosurgeon | Kingston, ON

Dr. Douglas James Cook is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at Uptown Eye Specialists in Kingston, ON, 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 Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective neurosurgical care. Dr. Cook 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 surgical techniques and individualized patient care to optimize outcomes. The practice is dedicated to utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in Canada and has accumulated over 12 years of experience as a Neurosurgeon since 2012. Dr. Cook is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his extensive training and expertise in neurosurgical care. His clinical experience encompasses a broad spectrum of neurosurgical procedures, emphasizing patient safety and evidence-based practice.

Dr. Cook's philosophy centers on a commitment to patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of advanced technology. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive neurosurgical care, ensuring that each patient receives tailored treatment plans. Dedicated to serving the Kingston community, he offers care in English and is deeply committed to supporting his patients through every stage of their neurosurgical journey.

Dr. Douglas Cook surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

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.
• Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.

Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)

• 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.
• Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
• 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

• Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
• Chronic Neuropathic Pain (select cases for neurostimulation): Persistent pain due to nerve damage, where spinal cord stimulation or other neuromodulation techniques might be considered.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• Peripheral Nerve Tumor Resection (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Surgical removal of tumors arising from peripheral nerves.
• 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.
• 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.
• Baclofen Pump Implantation for Spasticity Management: Surgical placement of a pump to deliver baclofen directly to the spinal fluid to reduce severe muscle spasticity.
• Comprehensive Neurosurgical Consultation & Evaluation: In-depth assessment of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including review of medical history, neurological examination, imaging review, and surgical planning.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Cook 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.

Uptown Eye Specialists is situated in Kingston's vibrant Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighbourhood. The practice is conveniently accessible, being located near the Kingston General Hospital Site. Patients can reach the clinic via Kingston Transit or personal transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing convenient options for those arriving by car.

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

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Cook, 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. Cook'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. Cook, 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. Cook. 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. Cook 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. Cook performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.

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

Neurosurgeons like Dr. Cook 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.

Uptown Eye Specialists
76 Stuart Street
Kingston, ON K7L 2V7

Phone: (613) 549-6666 | Fax: (613) 548-1346

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Cook 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. Cook 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/Cook-Douglas-James/0210589-81003