About
Dr. Timothee Etienne Darsaut 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 Edmonton, AB, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, regulated care. Dr. Darsaut provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. He is committed to delivering patient-centered, evidence-based interventions aimed at improving neurological function and quality of life.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Queen's University in Canada and has completed extensive postgraduate training in neurosurgery. Dr. Darsaut holds the necessary certification as a Neurosurgeon to practice within Alberta, reflecting his expertise and adherence to provincial standards. His certifications ensure he is qualified to perform complex neurosurgical procedures and provide ongoing, specialized care for adult patients with neurological conditions.
Dr. Darsaut's clinical philosophy emphasizes patient safety, precision in surgical technique, and the utilization of advanced technology. He believes in a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating closely with neurologists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes. He is dedicated to providing comprehensive pre-operative assessment, meticulous surgical planning, and thorough post-operative follow-up. Fluent in both English and French, Dr. Darsaut strives to communicate clearly and compassionately, ensuring patients feel informed and supported throughout their care journey.
Dr. Timothee Darsaut 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.
- Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
- 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.
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.
- Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)
- 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.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Timothee Darsaut.
- 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 Tumor Resection (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Surgical removal of tumors arising from peripheral nerves.
- 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.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife, CyberKnife) Planning & Coordination: Collaborating with radiation oncologists for non-invasive, highly focused radiation treatment for brain tumors, AVMs, and other neurological conditions.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
- Cavernous Malformation Resection: Surgical removal of abnormal clusters of small blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord that can cause bleeding or seizures.
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clipping & Coiling (Endovascular coiling often with Interventional Neuroradiology): Surgical or endovascular treatment to secure brain aneurysms and prevent rupture or re-rupture.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Darsaut 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Darsaut practices within a well-equipped neurosurgery clinic or hospital department located in Edmonton's S Central neighborhood, near the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park. The facility is conveniently situated close to the Citadel Theatre, with easy access via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for visitors, providing flexible options for those coming for consultations or procedures. The practice is committed to providing accessible, patient-centered neurosurgical care in a comfortable environment.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Darsaut, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Darsaut, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Darsaut's office, the hospital's financial services, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Darsaut, 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. Darsaut. 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. Darsaut 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. Darsaut treat surgically?
- Neurosurgeons like Dr. Darsaut 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.
- What are the general risks associated with neurosurgery?
- All surgical procedures carry some risks. For neurosurgery, these can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and neurological deficits (such as weakness, numbness, or problems with speech or vision), depending on the area being operated on. There's also the risk that the surgery may not fully alleviate the symptoms or that the underlying condition may recur. Dr. Darsaut will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
- What does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Darsaut 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. Darsaut performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.
8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7
Phone: (780) 407-1440 | Fax: (780) 407-8203
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Darsaut is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Darsaut for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=c0299ca0-c34e-4ea9-b22f-fd316b7336ca&i=343