About
Dr. Zelma Hendriette Tunde Kiss is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at Kiss Zelma H T Dr in Calgary, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA). She provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. Her focus is on delivering precise, patient-centered neurosurgical interventions within a supportive environment, utilizing advanced surgical techniques to optimize outcomes.
Dr. Kiss graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Ottawa in Canada. She holds specialty certification as a Neurosurgeon and is certified by the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) as well as the Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Neurosurgery. Her extensive training and certifications reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of neurosurgical care and continuous professional development.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of cutting-edge technology. Dr. Kiss emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration and comprehensive post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcomes for her patients. She is committed to providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique condition. In addition to English, Dr. Kiss speaks Hungarian, which helps her connect with a diverse patient community in Calgary.
Dr. Zelma Kiss surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
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 Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Spasticity (severe, for Baclofen pump or selective dorsal rhizotomy consideration): Severe muscle stiffness and spasms, potentially managed with implantable drug delivery systems or nerve root surgery.
- 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.
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.
- 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. Zelma Kiss.
- Cavernous Malformation Resection: Surgical removal of abnormal clusters of small blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord that can cause bleeding or seizures.
- 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.
- Spinal Cord Tumor Resection/Biopsy: Surgical removal or biopsy of tumors located within or around the spinal cord or spinal column.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Kiss 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.
Kiss Zelma H T Dr is located in Calgary's NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighbourhood, within a key medical facility that is part of a larger hospital complex. The practice is situated near landmarks such as McMahon Stadium and North Hill Centre, making it accessible for patients across Calgary. Public transit options include Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), providing convenient access to the location. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby lots are available for those arriving by car, facilitating a smooth and accessible patient experience.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Kiss, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Kiss, 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. Kiss'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. Kiss, 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. Kiss. 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.
- When might someone need to see a Neurosurgeon?
- A referral to a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Kiss 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 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. Kiss and the care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.
- How is a brain tumor typically treated by a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Kiss?
- The treatment for a brain tumor depends on its type, size, location, and the patient's overall health. For many tumors, surgical resection (removal) by a neurosurgeon like Dr. Kiss is a primary treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible. Surgery may also be done to obtain a biopsy for diagnosis. Often, surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach that may also include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, coordinated with oncologists and radiation oncologists.
- What does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Kiss 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. She is a Neurosurgeon specializing in surgical treatment of the brain, spine, and nerves. Dr. Kiss performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions. She is committed to providing expert neurosurgical care, utilizing the latest technology and evidence-based practices to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Kiss Zelma H T Dr
1403 29 St NW, Foothills Hospital 12th floor
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Phone: (403) 944-8602
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kiss 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. Kiss 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=19701885-167c-465b-b160-1932e73f189e&i=767