Description
About Dr. Shahid Mohammed Gul
Dr. Shahid Mohammed Gul is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at Shahid Gul Clinic Vancouver in North Vancouver, BC, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Gul provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. His approach focuses on delivering expert, patient-centered care tailored to individual needs within a supportive environment, utilizing advanced surgical techniques to optimize outcomes.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (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 maintaining the highest standards in neurosurgical practice.
Dr. Gul is committed to ensuring patient safety, precision in surgical interventions, and the integration of cutting-edge technology in his practice. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care and post-operative support. Fluent in English, he dedicates himself to guiding patients through their neurosurgical journey with professionalism and compassion, especially for those in North Vancouver seeking expert brain and spine surgery.
Common Conditions Dr. Shahid Gul Addresses
Dr. Shahid Gul surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
- Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.
- Spinal Stenosis (Cervical, Lumbar): Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
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.
- Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Chronic Neuropathic Pain (select cases for neurostimulation): Persistent pain due to nerve damage, where spinal cord stimulation or other neuromodulation techniques might be considered.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
- Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Shahid Gul.
Neurosurgeon Services Offered by Dr. Shahid Mohammed Gul
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- Syrinx (Syringomyelia) Decompression Surgery: Procedures to drain or shunt fluid-filled cavities (syrinxes) within the spinal cord.
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Implantation & Management (for Movement Disorders, Epilepsy, Pain): Surgical placement of electrodes in specific brain areas and programming of the stimulation device for conditions like Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, or epilepsy.
- Baclofen Pump Implantation for Spasticity Management: Surgical placement of a pump to deliver baclofen directly to the spinal fluid to reduce severe muscle spasticity.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Gul 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.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Shahid Gul Clinic Vancouver is situated in the vibrant area near central North Vancouver, easily accessible via local public transit. The clinic is conveniently located close to key points of interest, making it easy for patients to reach. 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, providing flexible options for visitors seeking expert neurosurgical care in North Vancouver.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Gul, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Gul, 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. Gul'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. Gul, 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. Gul. 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 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. Gul and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
- 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. Gul 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.
Contact & Licensing Information
Shahid Gul Clinic Vancouver
340-138 13TH St E
North Vancouver, BC V7L 0E5
Phone: (604) 904-2484 | Fax: (604) 904-2410
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Gul 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. Gul 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/324332/Gul%2CShahid