Dr. Martin Alexander Sutton-Brown – Neurologist | Nanaimo, BC

Dr. Martin Alexander Sutton-Brown 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 Martin Sutton-Brown Clinic Surrey in Nanaimo, BC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach emphasizes personalized, compassionate care to support patients and their families through complex neurological health challenges.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Calgary (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurologist. He is licensed to practice medicine in British Columbia under the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), with license number 29572. His credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of neurological practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Sutton-Brown's clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, integrating evidence-based practices with a holistic approach to neurological health. He is committed to ongoing patient education, support, and fostering a collaborative environment to optimize neurological outcomes. Fluent in English, Dr. Sutton-Brown provides attentive care tailored to the unique needs of each adult patient in Nanaimo, ensuring they feel heard, informed, and empowered in their health journey.

Dr. Martin Sutton-Brown addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare inflammatory demyelinating condition of the central nervous system, typically following an infection or vaccination.

Cognitive Disorders & Dementia

• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): An intermediate stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious decline of dementia.
• Lewy Body Dementia: A type of progressive dementia that leads to a decline in thinking, reasoning and independent function, often with visual hallucinations and parkinsonian features.
• Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): A group of disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in personality, behavior, and language.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Martin Sutton-Brown.

• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• 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.
• 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.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.

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

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Martin Sutton-Brown Clinic Surrey is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and Brooks Landing Shopping Centre, making it accessible for patients in the region. Public transit options are readily available via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit), providing an easy commute for those using buses. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, allowing for flexible and accessible parking during visits. The clinic's strategic location and accessible facilities make it a convenient choice for adults seeking expert neurological care in Nanaimo.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Sutton-Brown, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Sutton-Brown, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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. Sutton-Brown's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Sutton-Brown, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Sutton-Brown 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.

How does Dr. Sutton-Brown 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. Sutton-Brown 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.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Sutton-Brown?

Your first appointment with Dr. Sutton-Brown will likely be quite thorough. He will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Sutton-Brown may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.

Martin Sutton-Brown Clinic Surrey
1515 Dufferin Cres Ste 502
Nanaimo, BC V9S 2B8

Phone: (250) 755-2007 | Fax: (778) 508-9840

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Sutton-Brown is a licensed Neurologist 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. Sutton-Brown 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/331905/Sutton-Brown%2CMartin