About
Dr. Navraj Singh Heran 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 New Westminster, BC, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the rigorous standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Heran provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. He is committed to utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring his qualifications meet the highest standards for neurosurgical practice in Canada.
Dr. Heran’s clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the use of advanced technology to optimize outcomes. He values multidisciplinary collaboration and is dedicated to providing thorough post-operative care. Serving the adult population in New Westminster, he also speaks Punjabi (Panjabi) in addition to English, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient communities.
Dr. Navraj Heran surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Chronic Neuropathic Pain (select cases for neurostimulation): Persistent pain due to nerve damage, where spinal cord stimulation or other neuromodulation techniques might be considered.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
- 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.
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.
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
- Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Navraj Heran.
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clipping & Coiling (Endovascular coiling often with Interventional Neuroradiology): Surgical or endovascular treatment to secure brain aneurysms and prevent rupture or re-rupture.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- Surgical Management of Hemorrhagic Stroke (e.g., Hematoma Evacuation): Procedures to remove blood clots and relieve pressure on the brain after certain types of strokes.
- Nerve Biopsy for Diagnostic Purposes: Obtaining a small sample of a peripheral nerve for pathological examination.
- Brain Tumor Surgery (Craniotomy for Tumor Resection/Biopsy): Surgical removal or biopsy of benign and malignant brain tumors, including gliomas, meningiomas, metastatic tumors, and pituitary tumors, often utilizing image-guidance and intraoperative monitoring.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Heran 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. Heran practices at a neurosurgery clinic located in the Uptown neighborhood of New Westminster, BC. The facility is conveniently situated near Queensborough Landing Outlet Mall, providing easy access for patients. Public transit options include the TransLink SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus services, making the clinic accessible for those using public transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, offering flexibility for those arriving by car. The practice is committed to providing a welcoming environment with modern amenities to support patient care and comfort.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Heran, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Heran, 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. Heran'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. Heran, 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. Heran. 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.
- How is a brain tumor typically treated by a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Heran?
- The treatment for a brain tumor depends on its type, size, location, and the patient's overall health. For many tumors, surgical resection (removal) by a neurosurgeon like Dr. Heran is a primary treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible. Surgery may also be done to obtain a biopsy for diagnosis. Often, surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach that may also include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, coordinated with oncologists and radiation oncologists.
- 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. Heran and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
- What types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Heran treat surgically?
- Neurosurgeons like Dr. Heran who specialize in spine surgery treat a variety of conditions affecting the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (low-back) spine. These can include herniated discs causing nerve compression, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra), spinal fractures due to trauma, spinal tumors, and spinal deformities. Surgical procedures aim to decompress nerves, stabilize the spine, or remove tumors.
304-250 Keary St
New Westminster, BC V3L 5E7
Phone: (604) 520-1120 | Fax: (604) 526-1126
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Heran 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. Heran 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/323853/Heran%2CNavraj