Dr. Michael Nikolakis 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 Vancouver, BC, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. He provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. Dr. Nikolakis adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, safe, and effective patient care.
He graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His medical training and ongoing professional development reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of neurosurgical practice, with a focus on innovative and evidence-based treatment modalities.
Dr. Nikolakis’s clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precise surgical techniques, and the integration of advanced technology to optimize outcomes. He values multidisciplinary collaboration, working closely with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive treatment plans. His practice in Vancouver is characterized by a compassionate approach, aiming to support patients throughout their neurosurgical journey. He provides care in English and is dedicated to addressing each patient's unique needs with thoroughness and respect.
Dr. Michael Nikolakis surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
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.
- Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Spinal Stenosis (Cervical, Lumbar): Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
- Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
- Chronic Neuropathic Pain (select cases for neurostimulation): Persistent pain due to nerve damage, where spinal cord stimulation or other neuromodulation techniques might be considered.
- Spasticity (severe, for Baclofen pump or 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. Michael Nikolakis.
- 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.
- Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) & Dural Fistula Treatment (Surgical Resection, Embolization, Radiosurgery Coordination): Multimodal approaches to treat abnormal connections between arteries and veins in the brain or spinal cord.
- Management of Brachial Plexus & Lumbosacral Plexus Injuries (Surgical Repair/Grafting in select cases): Complex surgical interventions for injuries to major nerve networks.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Nerve Biopsy for Diagnostic Purposes: Obtaining a small sample of a peripheral nerve for pathological examination.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Nikolakis 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. Nikolakis practices at a neurosurgery clinic within a hospital in Vancouver's Fairview neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently situated near BC Place, making it easily accessible for patients. Public transit options include TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing convenient options for those arriving by car.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Nikolakis, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Nikolakis, 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. Nikolakis'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. Nikolakis, 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. Nikolakis. 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. Nikolakis will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
- Does Dr. Nikolakis perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Nikolakis, 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. Nikolakis if minimally invasive options are suitable for your specific neurosurgical needs.
- 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. Nikolakis 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 does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Nikolakis 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. Nikolakis performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.
- When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?
- A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Nikolakis is typically made by another physician when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical intervention or specialized neurosurgical assessment. This can include brain tumors, spinal disc herniations causing severe nerve compression, spinal stenosis, traumatic brain or spine injuries, cerebral aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), hydrocephalus, some forms of epilepsy, or peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes not responding to conservative treatment.
613-550 Broadway W
Vancouver, BC V5Z 0E9
Phone: (604) 423-9323 | Fax: (604) 563-5604
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Nikolakis 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. Nikolakis 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/327316/Nikolakis%2CMichael