Dr. Reena Kaur Baweja 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 Kamloops, BC, she is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). She provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. Dr. Baweja's approach emphasizes precision, safety, and multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
She graduated with a MB BS degree from the University of Sydney in Australia and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. Her credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming her expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards in neurosurgical practice.
Dr. Baweja's clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, the application of advanced surgical techniques, and utilizing state-of-the-art technology. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment. She communicates fluently in English and values thorough patient education and shared decision-making throughout the care process.
Dr. Reena Baweja surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
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.
- 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.
- 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.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- 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.
- 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.
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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Reena Baweja.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- 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.
- 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.
- Hydrocephalus Management (VP Shunt, ETV - Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy): Surgical treatment for abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, including shunt placement/revision and endoscopic procedures.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Baweja 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. Baweja practices at a neurosurgery department located within a major hospital in Kamloops, in the Downtown Kamloops, South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Royal Inland Hospital, providing easy access for patients from across the region. Public transit options are available via the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit), allowing accessible transportation. The hospital facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free entry for all patients. Parking amenities include metered street parking and nearby lots, facilitating convenient access for patients and visitors.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Baweja, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Baweja, 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. Baweja'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. Baweja, 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. Bawega. 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.
- Does Dr. Reena Kaur Baweja perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Baweja, 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. Bawega 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. Baweja 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 types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Baweja treat surgically?
- Neurosurgeons like Dr. Baweja 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. Bawega will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
474 Columbia St
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T5
Phone: (778) 471-9271 | Fax: (250) 434-1400
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Baweja 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. Baweja 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/374656/Baweja%2CReena