Dr. Rabab Thamer N Alshahrani

Dr. Rabab Alshahrani 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.
• Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.

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.
• 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.

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.
• Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.

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

• 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.
• Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
• Interpretation of Advanced Neuroimaging (MRI, CT, Angiography, Myelography): Expert analysis of specialized imaging of the brain, spinal cord, and vasculature to guide diagnosis and surgical decision-making.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
• Nerve Biopsy for Diagnostic Purposes: Obtaining a small sample of a peripheral nerve for pathological examination.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Alshahrani 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Victoria Hospital is situated in Toronto's Bay Street Corridor, within the Discovery District neighborhood. It is a leading medical facility housing specialized neurosurgical units, including the neurosurgery department where Dr. Alshahrani practices. The hospital is conveniently accessible via the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus) with multiple transit options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available with metered street parking and nearby lots, providing flexible options for visitors seeking in-person consultations or procedures. The hospital's location near landmarks such as the Art Gallery of Ontario and Massey Hall makes it a central hub for healthcare and cultural activities in Toronto.

Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Alshahrani, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Alshahrani, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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. Alshahrani's office, the hospital's financial services, or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) prior to any major procedure.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Alshahrani, 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. Alshahrani. 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 does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Alshahrani 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. She is a Neurosurgeon specializing in surgical treatment of the brain, spine, and nerves. Dr. Alshahrani performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.

How is a brain tumor typically treated by a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Alshahrani?

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. Alshahrani 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.

When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?

A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Alshahrani 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.

Does Dr. Rabab Thamer N Alshahrani perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?

Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Alshahrani, 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. Alshahrani if minimally invasive options are suitable for your specific neurosurgical needs.

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. Dr. Alshahrani and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.

Victoria Hospital
A2-600, 500 University Avenue, Geriatric Mental Health
Toronto, ON M5G 1V7

Phone: (416) 978-6976

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Alshahrani is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Alshahrani for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Alshahrani-Rabab-Thamer-N/0301658-107606