About
Dr. Laura Nanna Lohkamp is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Hea in Thunder Bay, ON, she is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Lohkamp provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. She is committed to utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Innsbruck in Austria, and has been practicing as a Neurosurgeon since 2023, accumulating over 1 year of experience in this specialized field. Dr. Lohkamp is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring her adherence to rigorous professional standards and ongoing medical education.
Dr. Lohkamp’s clinical philosophy emphasizes patient safety, precision in surgical intervention, and the integration of advanced technology. She is dedicated to providing patient-centered care through multidisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive post-operative support. Fluent in English, she is committed to guiding her patients through every step of their neurosurgical journey with compassion and expertise.
Dr. Laura Lohkamp surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- 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.
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
- Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- 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.
- Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Laura Lohkamp.
- Carotid Endarterectomy / Carotid Artery Stenting Coordination: Surgical removal of plaque from the carotid artery or stenting (often by vascular surgeons/interventionalists) to prevent stroke, with neurosurgical consultation for specific cases.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
- 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.
- 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.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumor Resection (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Surgical removal of tumors arising from peripheral nerves.
- Skull Base Surgery (Anterior, Middle, Posterior Fossa): Complex surgical procedures to treat tumors and other lesions located at the base of the skull, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach.
- Chiari Malformation Decompression: Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the cerebellum and brainstem caused by Chiari malformation.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Lohkamp 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.
The practice is situated within the Centre for Addiction and Mental Hea, located in Thunder Bay's Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood. This central location allows easy access for patients from across the city and surrounding regions. The facility is conveniently accessible via Thunder Bay Transit, ensuring public transportation options for those attending appointments. The building is wheelchair accessible, providing barrier-free entry and facilities for patients with mobility challenges. Parking options include metered street parking and nearby parking lots, making visits straightforward and convenient for all patients seeking neurosurgical consultation and care.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Lohkamp, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Lohkamp, 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. Lohkamp'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. Lohkamp, 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. Lohkamp. 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. Lohkamp 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.
- 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. Lohkamp and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
Centre for Addiction and Mental Hea
Unit 3, 980 Oliver Road
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4
Phone: (807) 684-6000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lohkamp 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. Lohkamp 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/Lohkamp-Laura-Nanna/0324378-116573