About
Dr. Stefano Maria Priola 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 Sudbury, ON, 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. As a licensed practitioner under the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), Dr. Priola adheres to the highest standards of medical practice, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Messina in Italy and has accumulated over 4 years of experience as a Neurosurgeon since 2020. Recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist, he has demonstrated specialized expertise in neurosurgical care, including complex surgical interventions and advanced minimally invasive techniques. His certification underscores his commitment to maintaining excellence in neurosurgical practice and ongoing professional development.
Dr. Priola's clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of advanced technology to optimize outcomes. He is dedicated to providing compassionate care through multidisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive post-operative support. In addition to English, he speaks Italian, which allows him to serve a diverse patient population in Sudbury with clear communication and cultural sensitivity. His approach is rooted in a commitment to excellence, patient-centered care, and fostering a supportive environment for individuals undergoing neurosurgical treatment.
Dr. Stefano Priola surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
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.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
- 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)
- 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.
- Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Herniated Disc (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): A condition where the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer ring, potentially compressing nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis (Cervical, Lumbar): Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Stefano Priola.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed surgical or non-surgical treatment plans.
- 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.
- Peripheral Nerve Decompression Surgery (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Release, Ulnar Nerve Decompression): Surgical procedures to relieve pressure on entrapped peripheral nerves.
- 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.
- Surgery for Degenerative Spine Disease (e.g., Herniated Discs, Spinal Stenosis): Procedures such as microdiscectomy, laminectomy, and foraminotomy to relieve nerve compression and pain.
- 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.
- Spinal Cord Tumor Resection/Biopsy: Surgical removal or biopsy of tumors located within or around the spinal cord or spinal column.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Priola 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Priola practices within a neurosurgery department located in a prominent hospital in Sudbury's Downtown Sudbury, Minnow Lake, or Ramsey Lake Area neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Laurentian University and Idylwylde Golf & Country Club, making it accessible for patients in the region. Public transit options are available through GOVA Transit (Greater Sudbury Transit), ensuring easy access for patients. The location is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available at or near the facility, facilitating a comfortable and accessible environment for all patients.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Priola, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Priola, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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. Priola's office, the hospital's financial services, or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Priola, 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. Priola. 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 does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Priola 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. Priola performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.
- 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. Priola and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
Suite 940, 41 Ramsey Lake Road, PO Box 36
Sudbury, ON P3E 5J1
Phone: (705) 806-2248 | Fax: (705) 806-2998
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Priola is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Priola for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Priola-Stefano-Maria/0308463-108919