About
Dr. Enriqueta Lucar Figueroa is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at Clarington FHO in London, ON, she is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. She provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and personalized neurosurgical treatment.
Dr. Figueroa graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in Canada. She has been practicing as a Neurosurgeon since 2023, accumulating over one year of specialized experience in neurosurgical care. She is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, demonstrating her expertise and compliance with provincial standards for neurosurgical practice.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of advanced technology to achieve optimal outcomes. Dr. Figueroa is committed to comprehensive, multidisciplinary collaboration and providing thorough post-operative support. She is dedicated to serving patients in London with compassion and professionalism. Additionally, she speaks French in addition to English, facilitating clear communication with a diverse patient population.
Dr. Enriqueta Figueroa surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.
- 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.
- Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
- 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.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.
- 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.
- Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Enriqueta Figueroa.
- Nerve Biopsy for Diagnostic Purposes: Obtaining a small sample of a peripheral nerve for pathological examination.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumor Resection (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Surgical removal of tumors arising from peripheral nerves.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- Syrinx (Syringomyelia) Decompression Surgery: Procedures to drain or shunt fluid-filled cavities (syrinxes) within the spinal cord.
- Baclofen Pump Implantation for Spasticity Management: Surgical placement of a pump to deliver baclofen directly to the spinal fluid to reduce severe muscle spasticity.
- 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.
- 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. Figueroa 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.
Clarington FHO is situated in London's Downtown London, North London East neighborhood. The practice benefits from close proximity to Victoria Hospital (LHSC) and Parkwood Institute, facilitating prompt access to comprehensive neurosurgical and medical services. Patients can reach the clinic via the London Transit Commission (LTC) public transit system, making it convenient for those relying on bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing flexible and secure parking during visits.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Figueroa, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Figueroa, 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. Figueroa'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. Figueroa, 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. Figueroa. 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.
- Does Dr. Enriqueta Lucar Figueroa perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Figueroa, utilize minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques when appropriate for the patient's condition. These techniques involve smaller incisions, specialized instruments, and often advanced imaging guidance, which can lead to reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. You should ask Dr. Figueroa if minimally invasive options are suitable for your specific neurosurgical needs.
- What types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Figueroa treat surgically?
- Neurosurgeons like Dr. Figueroa 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.
- 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. Figueroa and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
- When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?
- A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Figueroa 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 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. Figueroa 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.
Clarington FHO
800 Commissioners Rd E
London, ON N6A 5W9
Phone: (519) 685-8500
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Figueroa 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. Figueroa 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/Lucar-Figueroa-Enriqueta/0310103-109671