Dr. Preneshlin Vadival Govender – Neurosurgeon | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Preneshlin Vadival Govender 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 Kelowna, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). 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. Govender's approach focuses on delivering precise, personalized treatment in a supportive environment, utilizing advanced surgical techniques to optimize patient outcomes.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from the University of Natal in South Africa and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His qualifications are further affirmed by certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of neurosurgical practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Govender’s clinical philosophy emphasizes patient safety, surgical precision, and the integration of cutting-edge technology. He is dedicated to providing comprehensive care in English, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optimal treatment planning and post-operative support for his patients in Kelowna. His goal is to offer compassionate, evidence-based neurosurgical care that addresses each patient's unique needs with professionalism and respect.

Dr. Preneshlin Govender surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

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.
• Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.

Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders

• Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
• 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.

Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions

• 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.
• 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.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Preneshlin Govender.

• 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 Cord Tumor Resection/Biopsy: Surgical removal or biopsy of tumors located within or around the spinal cord or spinal column.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Peripheral Nerve Tumor Resection (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Surgical removal of tumors arising from peripheral nerves.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Govender 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. Govender practices at a neurosurgery clinic within a hospital department located in Kelowna's Upper Mission, Kettle Valley neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Downtown Kelowna, accessible by public transit via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The location is fully wheelchair accessible and parking is available at or near the facility, ensuring ease of access for all patients. The practice's setting is designed to provide a welcoming environment for those seeking expert neurosurgical care in Kelowna.

Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Govender, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Govender, 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. Govender'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. Govender, 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. Govender. 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 types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Govender treat surgically?

Neurosurgeons like Dr. Govender 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.

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. Govender will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.

303-3320 Richter St
Kelowna, BC V1W 4V5

Phone: (250) 763-2999 | Fax: (250) 763-2912

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Govender 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. Govender 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/327728/Govender%2CPreneshlin