About
Dr. Sung-Joo Yuh is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at CHUM, Département de neurochirurgie in Montréal, QC, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the highest standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate neurosurgical care. Dr. Yuh provides comprehensive surgical services for a broad spectrum of conditions involving the nervous system, focusing on delivering individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.
He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 8 years of experience as a Neurosurgeon since 2016. Throughout his career, he has completed extensive post-graduate training and obtained the necessary certifications to practice neurosurgery (Surgical Care of the Brain, Spine, and Nerves) in Quebec. His expertise encompasses both complex and routine neurosurgical procedures, with a commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge in the field.
Dr. Yuh’s clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of advanced surgical technology. He is dedicated to fostering a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes. His practice emphasizes comprehensive pre-operative evaluation, minimally invasive techniques when feasible, and thorough post-operative care. Fluent in both English and French, Dr. Yuh is committed to providing accessible, patient-centered neurosurgical care to the Montréal community.
Dr. Sung-Joo Yuh 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.
- 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.
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
- Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH - select cases for evacuation): Bleeding within the brain tissue itself, where surgical evacuation may be considered for large or life-threatening hematomas.
- 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)
- Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Sung-Joo Yuh.
- 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.
- 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.
- Spinal Fusion & Instrumentation (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): Surgical stabilization of the spine using bone grafts and/or metallic hardware for conditions like instability, deformity, or after trauma/tumor resection.
- 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.
- Surgery for Spinal Trauma & Fractures: Decompression and stabilization procedures for injuries to the spinal column and spinal cord.
- Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- Peripheral Nerve Decompression Surgery (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Release, Ulnar Nerve Decompression): Surgical procedures to relieve pressure on entrapped peripheral nerves.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Yuh for care relevant to your specific condition.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
CHUM, Département de neurochirurgie is situated in Montréal's Ville-Marie East (Quartier Latin, Village) neighborhood, offering convenient access for patients. The facility is located near prominent landmarks such as the Jewish General Hospital and Saint Joseph's Oratory. It is easily accessible via public transit, with multiple options provided by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), including Métro and bus routes. The practice is committed to accessibility, with the facility being wheelchair accessible. Patients can find metered street parking and nearby parking lots for added convenience.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Yuh, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Yuh, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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. Yuh's office, the hospital's financial services, or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Yuh, 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. Yuh. 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. Yuh perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Yuh, 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. Yuh 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. Yuh and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
- When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?
- A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Yuh is typically made by another physician when a condition is suspected or diagnosed that may require surgical intervention or specialized neurosurgical assessment. This can include brain tumors, spinal disc herniations causing severe nerve compression, spinal stenosis, traumatic brain or spine injuries, cerebral aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), hydrocephalus, some forms of epilepsy, or peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes not responding to conservative treatment.
- What does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Yuh 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. Yuh performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.
CHUM, Département de neurochirurgie
1051 Rue Sanguinet
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1
Phone: (514) 890-8000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Yuh is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Yuh for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=16113