About
Dr. Walter John Hader 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 Calgary, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patient safety, quality, and ethical care are at the forefront of all treatments. Dr. Hader 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 combines advanced surgical techniques with compassionate patient-centered care, dedicated to improving outcomes and quality of life for his patients.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon. His credentials include certifications such as LMCC and FRCSC in Neurosurgery, reflecting his expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development. Dr. Hader’s training and certification ensure that he remains current with the latest advancements in neurosurgical care, providing his patients with leading-edge treatment options and clinical practices.
Guided by a commitment to patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of advanced technology, Dr. Hader emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive post-operative care. He provides his neurosurgical services primarily in English, fostering clear communication and understanding. His clinical philosophy centers on individualized treatment plans, meticulous surgical techniques, and thorough patient education, ensuring each patient receives optimal care tailored to their specific condition in Calgary.
Dr. Walter Hader 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.
- Syringomyelia (Syrinx): Formation of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord, which can expand and damage nerve tissue.
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
- Chronic Neuropathic Pain (select cases for neurostimulation): Persistent pain due to nerve damage, where spinal cord stimulation or other neuromodulation techniques might be considered.
- Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- 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.
- Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
- Traumatic Nerve Injuries (requiring repair or grafting): Severe injuries to peripheral nerves that may benefit from surgical exploration, repair, or nerve grafting.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Walter Hader.
- Skull Base Surgery (Anterior, Middle, Posterior Fossa): Complex surgical procedures to treat tumors and other lesions located at the base of the skull, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach.
- 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.
- Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- 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.
- Epilepsy Surgery (e.g., Temporal Lobectomy, Lesionectomy, Corpus Callosotomy - in selected cases): Surgical interventions for medically refractory epilepsy, aimed at removing or disconnecting the seizure focus.
- Cavernous Malformation Resection: Surgical removal of abnormal clusters of small blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord that can cause bleeding or seizures.
- 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. Hader 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. Hader practices at a neurosurgery clinic within a major hospital in Calgary’s NW: Bowness, Montgomery, Greenwood neighbourhoods. The facility is conveniently situated near Calgary City Hall and is easily accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The practice location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for patient convenience, making it straightforward to attend appointments and surgical consultations.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Hader, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Hader, 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. Hader'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. Hader, 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. Hader. 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 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. Hader will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
- When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?
- A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Hader 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.
- Does Dr. Walter Hader perform minimally invasive neurosurgery?
- Many neurosurgeons, including potentially Dr. Hader, 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. Hader if minimally invasive options are suitable for your specific neurosurgical needs.
- What types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Hader treat surgically?
- Neurosurgeons like Dr. Hader 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.
28 Oki Dr NW
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8
Phone: (403) 955-7805 | Fax: (403) 955-7634
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hader 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. Hader 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=ac243164-1dc2-4fe6-9b45-a795e7fc865f&i=568