Dr. Teresa Suzanne Purzner – Neurosurgeon | Kingston, ON

Dr. Teresa Suzanne Purzner is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at North York General Hospital in Kingston, ON, she is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe, effective, and patient-centered neurosurgical care. 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. Purzner's approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs, utilizing the latest surgical techniques and technology to optimize outcomes.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. Since 2021, she has been practicing as a Neurosurgeon, accumulating over 3 years of specialized experience in neurosurgical care. Dr. Purzner is recognized as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist in Neurosurgery, validated by her certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her training and certifications underscore her expertise and commitment to excellence in neurosurgical practice.

Dr. Purzner’s clinical philosophy centers on delivering safe, precise, and compassionate care. She is dedicated to utilizing advanced surgical technology and techniques to maximize safety and efficacy. She values multidisciplinary collaboration, working closely with neurologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation specialists to ensure comprehensive patient management. Her commitment extends beyond the operating room, providing thorough pre-operative assessments and post-operative support. She offers her care in English and is deeply committed to supporting her patients throughout their treatment journey in Kingston and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Teresa Purzner surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)

• 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.
• Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.

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.
• 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.

Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions

• 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.
• Chronic Neuropathic Pain (select cases for neurostimulation): Persistent pain due to nerve damage, where spinal cord stimulation or other neuromodulation techniques might be considered.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Teresa Purzner.

• 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.
• Syrinx (Syringomyelia) Decompression Surgery: Procedures to drain or shunt fluid-filled cavities (syrinxes) within the spinal cord.
• Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
• 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.
• 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.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
• Interpretation of Advanced Neuroimaging (MRI, CT, Angiography, Myelography): Expert analysis of specialized imaging of the brain, spinal cord, and vasculature to guide diagnosis and surgical decision-making.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Purzner 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.

North York General Hospital is situated in Kingston's Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, within the Sydenham Ward neighborhood. The hospital features a dedicated Neurosurgical Unit where Dr. Purzner provides specialized surgical care. The facility is easily accessible via Kingston Transit, with multiple bus routes servicing the area. The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and convenience for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for visitors. As a key medical facility in Kingston, North York General Hospital offers state-of-the-art surgical suites and comprehensive patient support services, making it a trusted destination for neurosurgical care in the region.

Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Purzner, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Purzner, 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. Purzner'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. Purzner, 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. Purzner. 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 types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Purzner treat surgically?

Neurosurgeons like Dr. Purzner 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.

When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?

A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Purzner 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 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. Purzner 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.

Does Dr. Purzner perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?

Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Purzner, 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. Purzner 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. Dr. Purzner and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.

North York General Hospital
Room 1E-174, 76 Stuart St, Department of Anesthesia
Kingston, ON K7L 2V7

Phone: (613) 549-6666 | Fax: (613) 548-1346

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Purzner 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. Purzner 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/Purzner-Teresa-Suzanne/0258119-91594