Neurosurgeons are the specialists who treat complications related to the central nervous system, the brain, and the spinal cord. Read more for this profile's job description and other important aspects.
The scope of medicine has risen steadily in the last few decades in the United States. The higher branches and specializations of medical field have seen tremendous amount of growth, both in terms of treatment and expertise. One of the medical fields that has seen drastic technological advancements is that of neurosurgery.
Everyone unanimously agrees to the fact that the nervous system is responsible for coordinating the voluntary and involuntary functions of our body.
Being such a crucial organ, any sort of diseases, tumors, and infections related to the same can hinder the smooth functioning of the body.
In case if one is affected by any of the problems related to the central nervous system, brain, and spine, he/she should be rushed to the neurosurgeons, who specialize in the study of these organs. Here is the job profile of neurosurgeons.
Job Description
The job of a neurosurgeon is divided into various work activities.
They mainly treat the neurological problems with the help of surgeries and medications.
Removal of brain tumors, diagnosing brain cancer, back surgeries, etc., are some of the neurological procedures that are performed.
While some neurosurgeons work in the general aspects of the neurosurgery, various others opt for various specializations and sub-specializations.
Pediatric neurosurgery, peripheral nerve neurosurgery, spine neurosurgery etc., are some of the specializations.
While many surgeons work for hospitals and health care units, many prefer solo or group practices.
Many professionals also help psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors in complications related to the nervous system.
Note that psychiatric problems can often be due to some physical damage or problem to the brain, so they assist psychiatrists in tracing the problems of patients with such complications.
A neurosurgeon also has to provide assistance to the patients of neurological disorders in matters related to the improvement of their memory and speech.
Since surgeries related to brain are extremely complex, the responsibilities of a neurosurgeon assume more significance.
He needs to display a sense of commitment for the patient's care. He has to ensure that he is dexterous in matters related to the brain surgery.
Educational Requirements
The career path of the neurosurgeon starts from the premedical school education, where he must have studied subjects related to sciences, like physics, math, biology, organic chemistry, human anatomy, etc.
Post high school, one needs to attend undergraduate college, followed by 4 years of medical school training
Since surgery is the main point here, one year of surgical training or internship, and at least, 6 to 8 years of residency is required to become a specialist neurosurgeon.
Depending on the type of the specialization, the residential training period and other requirements can vary.
The American Board of Neurological Surgery (ABNS) is a professional authority that guides, instructs, and takes written and oral exams for the candidates to improve their skills and test their competency, before they are ready to become professional experts. Licenses issued by state authorities are necessary for the professional training in this field.
Salary and Job Outlook
Neurosurgeons play a vital role in research and studies about the brain problems.
While some of them practice and treat patients, various others opt for research work.
The path of career development in this field is tremendous, as there is no limit to research and learning.
They also enjoy attractive salaries, and this one of the best amongst the surgical career options.
The median salary is usually around US $55,900, which increases as per experience.
If you have an experience of more than 6-7 years, you will be paid between US $42,145 to US $86,454.
Such high salaries are often the motivation factor for many, however, remember you have to study a lot and establish yourself as an expert, before you begin to enjoy very high salaries. All the best for a flourishing career.