Dr. Harley Sandwith Smyth – Neurosurgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Harley Sandwith Smyth is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at Huronia Medical Centre in Toronto, 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). Dr. Smyth 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 individualized treatment plans, utilizing advanced surgical techniques to optimize patient outcomes. The practice is committed to fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment, ensuring they receive compassionate and expert care throughout their journey.

Dr. Smyth graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has been a practicing Neurosurgeon since 1972, bringing over 52 years of experience to his patients. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), demonstrating his expertise and commitment to neurosurgical excellence. His extensive training and ongoing professional development ensure he remains at the forefront of neurosurgical advancements, providing the most current and effective treatments available.

Guided by a philosophy of patient safety, precision surgery, and the integration of cutting-edge technology, Dr. Smyth is dedicated to delivering exceptional neurosurgical care. He collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. Fluent in English, French, and Italian, he strives to communicate effectively and compassionately with his diverse patient population in Toronto, ensuring they feel informed and supported at every stage of their care.

Dr. Harley Smyth surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions

• Spasticity (severe, for Baclofen pump or selective dorsal rhizotomy consideration): Severe muscle stiffness and spasms, potentially managed with implantable drug delivery systems or nerve root surgery.
• 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.

Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders

• Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
• Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
• Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.

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.
• 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.
• Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.

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

• 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.
• Surgical Management of Hemorrhagic Stroke (e.g., Hematoma Evacuation): Procedures to remove blood clots and relieve pressure on the brain after certain types of strokes.
• Surgery for Degenerative Spine Disease (e.g., Herniated Discs, Spinal Stenosis): Procedures such as microdiscectomy, laminectomy, and foraminotomy to relieve nerve compression and pain.
• Brain Tumor Surgery (Craniotomy for Tumor Resection/Biopsy): Surgical removal or biopsy of benign and malignant brain tumors, including gliomas, meningiomas, metastatic tumors, and pituitary tumors, often utilizing image-guidance and intraoperative monitoring.
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Implantation & Management (for Movement Disorders, Epilepsy, Pain): Surgical placement of electrodes in specific brain areas and programming of the stimulation device for conditions like Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, or epilepsy.
• Spinal Cord Tumor Resection/Biopsy: Surgical removal or biopsy of tumors located within or around the spinal cord or spinal column.
• Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.

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

Huronia Medical Centre is situated within Toronto's vibrant "The Danforth West, Riverdale" neighborhood, serving as a key medical facility equipped with a specialized neurosurgical unit. The centre is conveniently located near the University of Toronto (St. George Campus south edge), making it accessible for patients from across the city and beyond. Public transit options, including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), provide easy access to the facility. The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free entry for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, offering flexibility and convenience for outpatient visits and surgical procedures. The centre's strategic location underscores its role as a vital hub for advanced neurosurgical care in the region.

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

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Smyth, 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. Smyth'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. Smyth, 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. Smyth. 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. Smyth 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.

How is a brain tumor typically treated by a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Smyth?

The treatment for a brain tumor depends on its type, size, location, and the patient's overall health. For many tumors, surgical resection (removal) by a neurosurgeon like Dr. Smyth is a primary treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor safely possible. Surgery may also be done to obtain a biopsy for diagnosis. Often, surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach that may also include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, coordinated with oncologists and radiation oncologists.

Huronia Medical Centre
Suite 208, 807 Broadview Avenue, Box 790
Toronto, ON M4K 2P8

Phone: (416) 461-9471

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Smyth 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. Smyth 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/Smyth-Harley-Sandwith/0020711-25499