Dr. Ian Gordon Fleetwood – Neurosurgeon | Victoria, BC

Dr. Ian Gordon Fleetwood 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 Victoria, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Fleetwood 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 patient-centered care, utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment.

He graduated with an MD from the University of Manitoba (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring adherence to rigorous training and professional standards. Throughout his career, Dr. Fleetwood has dedicated himself to continuous learning and skill development in the field of neurosurgery, specializing in surgical interventions for complex neurological conditions.

Dr. Fleetwood's clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of advanced technology to optimize outcomes. He emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive post-operative care to ensure each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their specific needs. Fluent in English, he is committed to providing clear communication and compassionate care to the residents of Victoria and surrounding areas.

Dr. Ian Fleetwood surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

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.
• Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.

Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)

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

Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions

• Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Epilepsy Surgery (e.g., Temporal Lobectomy, Lesionectomy, Corpus Callosotomy - in selected cases): Surgical interventions for medically refractory epilepsy, aimed at removing or disconnecting the seizure focus.
• Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation for Chronic Pain: Placement of a device that delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord to manage chronic back or limb pain.
• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Fleetwood 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Fleetwood practices at a neurosurgery clinic within a hospital setting in Victoria, BC, situated in an area near central Victoria. The location offers easy access to Saanich and Highway routes, making it convenient for patients traveling from various parts of the region. The facility is well-connected by the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring accessible public transportation options. The hospital or clinic premises are fully accessible, with wheelchair access available to accommodate patients with mobility challenges. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing ease of access for patients arriving by car. The environment is designed to support a comfortable and efficient patient experience, emphasizing safety and accessibility for all visitors.

Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Fleetwood, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Fleetwood, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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. Fleetwood's office, the hospital's financial services, or Medical Services Plan (MSP) prior to any major procedure.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Fleetwood, 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. Fleetwood. 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. Fleetwood perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?

Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Fleetwood, 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. Fleetwood if minimally invasive options are suitable for your specific neurosurgical needs.

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

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. Fleetwood is a primary treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as 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.

What does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Fleetwood 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. Fleetwood performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.

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

Neurosurgeons like Dr. Fleetwood 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.

284 Helmcken Rd Ste 103, Victoria Neurosurgery Clinic
Victoria, BC V9B 1T2

Phone: (778) 405-1224 | Fax: (250) 383-3053

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Fleetwood is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Fleetwood for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/341742/Fleetwood%2CIan