About
Dr. Michael Ming-Chee Chow 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 University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, AB, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. Dr. Chow adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that his practice aligns with provincial regulations and best practices. He 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 precision, patient safety, and the use of advanced surgical techniques to optimize outcomes. The practice is dedicated to supporting patients through every stage of their neurosurgical journey, fostering a compassionate and multidisciplinary environment.
Dr. Chow graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Queen's University in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His credentials include certification from the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and fellowship in the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Neurosurgery. These qualifications attest to his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of neurosurgical care.
His clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the integration of advanced technology to enhance treatment effectiveness. Dr. Chow values multidisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive post-operative care, ensuring that each patient receives tailored and effective treatment. He provides care in English and is dedicated to serving the Edmonton community with professionalism and compassion.
Dr. Michael Chow 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.
- Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
- Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Michael Chow.
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clipping & Coiling (Endovascular coiling often with Interventional Neuroradiology): Surgical or endovascular treatment to secure brain aneurysms and prevent rupture or re-rupture.
- Syrinx (Syringomyelia) Decompression Surgery: Procedures to drain or shunt fluid-filled cavities (syrinxes) within the spinal cord.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- 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.
- 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.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife, CyberKnife) Planning & Coordination: Collaborating with radiation oncologists for non-invasive, highly focused radiation treatment for brain tumors, AVMs, and other neurological conditions.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Chow 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.
The University of Alberta Hospital, located in Edmonton's S Central area near the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park neighborhoods, serves as a major medical and research hub. The hospital is situated along 4th Street Promenade, easily accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) including Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes. The hospital complex is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for visitors, providing convenient access to specialized neurosurgical services in a modern, well-equipped facility dedicated to advanced medical care.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Chow, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Chow, 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. Chow'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. Chow, 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. Chow. 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. Chow 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. Chow and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
- Does Dr. Chow perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Chow, 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. Chow if minimally invasive options are suitable for your specific neurosurgical needs.
- 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. Chow will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
University of Alberta Hospital
8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7
Phone: (780) 407-1428 | Fax: (780) 407-8203 | Website: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/uah/uah.aspx
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Chow 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. Chow 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=d35eb9c8-c3f6-4a92-a86b-30314377c96c&i=293