Dr. François Brissette – Neurologist | Longueuil, QC

Dr. François Brissette is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at Hopital Pierre-Boucher, Neurologie in Longueuil, QC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive quality neurological care. Dr. Brissette provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach emphasizes a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.

He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 9 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2015. With extensive post-graduate training, Dr. Brissette has obtained the necessary certifications to practice Neurology (Disorders of the Brain, Spinal Cord, Nerves, and Muscles) in Quebec. His certification and ongoing professional development reflect his commitment to maintaining clinical excellence and staying current with the latest advances in neurological medicine.

Dr. Brissette is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care through a holistic approach that values ongoing education, evidence-based practice, and compassionate support. He is committed to enhancing the neurological health of his patients in Longueuil and the surrounding community. Fluent in French, he ensures clear communication and patient understanding throughout the care process. His clinical philosophy centers on collaboration, respect, and empowering patients in their journey toward better neurological health.

Dr. François Brissette addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

• Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
• Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
• Generalized Epilepsy (e.g., Tonic-Clonic, Absence Seizures): Seizures that affect both sides of the brain from the onset, leading to various types of convulsions or alterations in consciousness.

Movement Disorders

• Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorders: Neurological disorders characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.
• Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.
• Parkinson's Disease: A progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement, often including tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. François Brissette.

• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Brissette for care relevant to your needs.

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

Hopital Pierre-Boucher, Neurologie is situated in Longueuil's Vieux-Longueuil (Longueuil West) neighborhood, providing convenient access for patients in the region. The facility is located near Parc Michel-Chartrand, offering a pleasant environment for visitors. Accessible via public transit, particularly the Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL), the clinic is easily reachable for patients using various modes of transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, facilitating convenient arrival and departure for those driving.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Brissette, a Neurologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Brissette, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), 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. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Brissette's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Brissette, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Brissette for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?

You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Brissette if needed.

What are common diagnostic tests in Neurology?

Common tests ordered or interpreted by a neurologist include: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans to visualize the brain and spinal cord; Electroencephalogram (EEG) to record brain electrical activity (often for seizures); Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to assess nerve and muscle function; Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap) to analyze cerebrospinal fluid; and various blood tests to look for infections, inflammation, or genetic markers. Dr. Brissette will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.

What are the treatment options for epilepsy?

The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Brissette can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.

How does Dr. Brissette manage Parkinson's disease?

Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Brissette will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.

Hopital Pierre-Boucher, Neurologie
1333 boul Jacques-Cartier E
Longueuil, QC J4M 2A5

Phone: (450) 468-8111

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Brissette is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Brissette 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=15624