Dr. Scott Joseph Paquette – Neurosurgeon | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Scott Joseph Paquette 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 Vancouver, BC, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. 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. Paquette adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that his practice maintains the utmost professionalism and patient safety.

He graduated with an MD from Memorial University of Newfoundland (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his expertise and commitment to excellence in neurosurgical care.

Dr. Paquette's clinical philosophy centers around patient safety, precision in surgical techniques, and the utilization of advanced technology to improve outcomes. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care in a multidisciplinary environment, supporting patients through every stage of their neurosurgical journey. Fluent in English, he is committed to clear communication, ensuring that patients understand their conditions and treatment options fully.

Dr. Scott Paquette surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)

• 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.
• 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.

Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders

• Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
• Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
• Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.

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.
• 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.
• 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. Scott Paquette.

• Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation for Chronic Pain: Placement of a device that delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord to manage chronic back or limb pain.
• 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.
• Chiari Malformation Decompression: Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the cerebellum and brainstem caused by Chiari malformation.
• Peripheral Nerve Decompression Surgery (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Release, Ulnar Nerve Decompression): Surgical procedures to relieve pressure on entrapped peripheral nerves.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
• Surgery for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Emergency and elective procedures for TBI, including craniotomy for hematoma evacuation, management of skull fractures, and intracranial pressure monitoring.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Paquette 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. Paquette practices within a neurosurgery clinic located in Vancouver's Fairview neighborhood. The facility is situated conveniently close to the Downtown Entertainment District, making it easily accessible for patients. Public transit options include TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), bus services, SeaBus, and the West Coast Express at Waterfront Station, providing seamless transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, offering flexibility and convenience for visitors.

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

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Paquette, 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. Paquette'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. Paquette, 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. Paquette. 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. Paquette 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. Paquette treat surgically?

Neurosurgeons like Dr. Paquette 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.

818 10th Ave W, Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Combined Neurosurgical and Orthopedic Spine Progra
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 875-5562 | Fax: (604) 875-8223

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Paquette 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. Paquette 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/328547/Paquette%2CScott