About
Dr. Mark G. Hamilton 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 Calgary, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based neurosurgical care. Dr. Hamilton provides comprehensive surgical services for a broad spectrum of conditions impacting the central and peripheral nervous systems, including traumatic injuries, tumors, degenerative diseases, and vascular disorders. His approach emphasizes patient-centered care, utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for individuals undergoing treatment for complex neurological conditions.
He graduated with an MD CM from McGill University in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His credentials include certification from the Medical Licencing Examination of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (LMCC) and Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Neurosurgery. These qualifications reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of neurosurgical expertise and ongoing professional development.
Dr. Hamilton's clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision in surgical intervention, and the integration of cutting-edge technology. He believes in a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating closely with neurologists, radiologists, oncologists, and rehabilitation specialists to optimize patient outcomes. Dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care, he communicates clearly in English and ensures that patients are well-informed about their treatment options, risks, and expected outcomes. His goal is to deliver safe, effective, and minimally invasive neurosurgical care tailored to each patient's unique needs in Calgary.
Dr. Mark Hamilton surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
- 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.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- 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.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
- Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
- Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
- Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Mark Hamilton.
- Surgery for Degenerative Spine Disease (e.g., Herniated Discs, Spinal Stenosis): Procedures such as microdiscectomy, laminectomy, and foraminotomy to relieve nerve compression and pain.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumor Resection (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Surgical removal of tumors arising from peripheral nerves.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- Spinal Fusion & Instrumentation (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): Surgical stabilization of the spine using bone grafts and/or metallic hardware for conditions like instability, deformity, or after trauma/tumor resection.
- 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.
- Cavernous Malformation Resection: Surgical removal of abnormal clusters of small blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord that can cause bleeding or seizures.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Hamilton 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Hamilton practices at a neurosurgery clinic within a major hospital in Calgary's NW neighbourhoods, including Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington). The facility is conveniently located near Chinook Centre and the Commercial Corridor South, making it accessible for patients in the city and surrounding areas. Public transit options such as Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT) serve the location, ensuring easy access via multiple routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility challenges. Parking is available at or near the facility for those arriving by private vehicle, providing convenient access for outpatient and inpatient neurosurgical care.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Hamilton, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Hamilton, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Hamilton's office, the hospital's financial services, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hamilton, 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. Hamilton. 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 the general risks associated with neurosurgery?
- All surgical procedures carry some risks. For neurosurgery, these can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and neurological deficits (such as weakness, numbness, or problems with speech or vision), depending on the area being operated on. There's also the risk that the surgery may not fully alleviate the symptoms or that the underlying condition may recur. Dr. Hamilton will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
- Does Dr. Hamilton perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Hamilton, 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. Hamilton if minimally invasive options are suitable for your specific neurosurgical needs. Many cases involve such approaches to optimize patient outcomes and recovery.
1403 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Phone: (402) 944-1626 | Fax: (403) 283-2270
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hamilton is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Hamilton for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=bf691813-10ad-4a4b-8466-d3bafb72b3e1&i=578