About
Dr. Rita Nguyen 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 Calgary, AB, she is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. 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. Nguyen adheres to the highest standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that her practice aligns with provincial regulations and best practices. Her approach is grounded in delivering precise, evidence-based neurosurgical interventions within a supportive environment, prioritizing patient safety and optimal outcomes.
She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. Dr. Nguyen has completed extensive postgraduate training in neurosurgery and maintains active certification allowing her to practice neurosurgical care of the brain, spine, and nerves in Alberta. Her credentials reflect a commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to rigorous clinical standards.
Dedicated to providing exceptional care, Dr. Nguyen emphasizes patient safety, precision in surgical techniques, and the utilization of advanced technology to enhance surgical outcomes. She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive treatment planning and offers thorough post-operative support. Fluent in English, she is committed to clear communication and compassionate patient care in Calgary and surrounding communities.
Dr. Rita Nguyen surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Spinal Stenosis (Cervical, Lumbar): Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- 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.
- Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
- Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Rita Nguyen.
- Chiari Malformation Decompression: Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the cerebellum and brainstem caused by Chiari malformation.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- 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.
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clipping & Coiling (Endovascular coiling often with Interventional Neuroradiology): Surgical or endovascular treatment to secure brain aneurysms and prevent rupture or re-rupture.
- 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.
- Cavernous Malformation Resection: Surgical removal of abnormal clusters of small blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord that can cause bleeding or seizures.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Nguyen 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.
Dr. Nguyen practices within a neurosurgery clinic located in Calgary's Downtown Beltline (Connaught) neighborhood. The facility is situated near the Pedestrian Mall Downtown and Historic Buildings, providing a vibrant and accessible setting. Public transit options are abundant, including Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), ensuring convenient access for all patients. The practice location is wheelchair accessible, accommodating patients with mobility needs. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, offering flexible options for visitors.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Nguyen, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Nguyen, 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. Nguyen'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. Nguyen, 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. Nguyen. 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. Nguyen perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Nguyen, 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. Nguyen 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. Nguyen and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
2107-836 15 Ave SW
Calgary, AB T2R 1S2
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Nguyen 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. Nguyen 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=85b1ee53-1fac-48ac-a393-156bc7e5deba&i=1057