About
Dr. Richard J. Fox is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, AB, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based neurosurgical care. Dr. Fox provides comprehensive surgical services for a wide array of conditions impacting the central and peripheral nervous systems, including trauma, tumors, degenerative diseases, and vascular abnormalities. He is committed to utilizing advanced surgical techniques and fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Toronto in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His credentials include certifications such as LMCC and FRCSC in Neurosurgery, reflecting his extensive training and expertise in the field of neurosurgical care. Dr. Fox maintains a commitment to ongoing professional development and adheres to the rigorous standards set by medical regulatory bodies to ensure the highest quality of patient care.
Dr. Fox’s clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision in surgical intervention, and the utilization of cutting-edge technology to optimize outcomes. He emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, thorough preoperative assessment, and comprehensive post-operative care. Dedicated to serving the Edmonton community, Dr. Fox provides care in English and is committed to guiding patients through their treatment journey with compassion, clarity, and professionalism.
Dr. Richard Fox surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- 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.
- 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. Richard Fox.
- Chiari Malformation Decompression: Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the cerebellum and brainstem caused by Chiari malformation.
- Surgery for Spinal Trauma & Fractures: Decompression and stabilization procedures for injuries to the spinal column and spinal cord.
- 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.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
- 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.
- Baclofen Pump Implantation for Spasticity Management: Surgical placement of a pump to deliver baclofen directly to the spinal fluid to reduce severe muscle spasticity.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Fox 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
The University of Alberta Hospital, located in Edmonton's S Central district within the neighborhoods of University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park, serves as a leading medical facility in the region. This hospital is home to one of the province's key neurosurgical units, providing specialized care in a state-of-the-art environment. The hospital's proximity to the Living History Museum offers a cultural touchstone in the area. Accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes, the facility is wheelchair accessible to ensure ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the hospital, facilitating convenient visits for patients and their families.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Fox, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Fox, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Fox's office, the hospital's financial services, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Fox, 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. Fox. 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 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. Fox 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. Fox 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. Fox performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.
- What types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Fox treat surgically?
- Neurosurgeons like Dr. Fox 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. Fox will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
University of Alberta Hospital
1B107-8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2J2
Phone: (780) 407-3558 | Fax: (780) 407-8203 | Website: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/uah/uah.aspx
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Fox is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Fox for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=8cd125ea-d9b4-4ef8-b12d-879ef287a7fe&i=481