Neurosurgery at Condell Medical Center
North Shore Magazine
Constant Advances, Skill Prove Condell a Leader in Neuro Related Surgeries
Libertyville- based Condell Medical Center is a top choice for complex brain and spine disorders and surgeries. The state-of-the-art equipment and quality surgical staff mirror academic medical centers.
Unlike other medical institutions with limited access to qualified neurosurgeons, patients at Condell have several choices for surgeons and enjoy the benefits of a specifically designed operating suite for brain and spine surgeries.
In addition to neurosurgery, the 650+ physician medical staff servicing Condell represents a rapidly expanding array of specialities from anesthesiology to vascular surgery, including key specialists in cardiology, surgical oncology and interventional radiology.
Neurosurgery Program
Condell is comitted to bringing pediatric and adult neurosurgical expertise to lake County. Just some of the neurological conditions Condell currently treats include: brain disorders, brain tumors and aneurysms, spinal disorders, herniated disks, peripheral nerve disorders, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and ulnar neurophaty.
Technology and Expertise
Condell is one of few to offer the computer-based VectorVision for brain surgery. Neurosurgeon Jeffery Karasick, MD said, “VectorVision tracks every step of the operation, allowing greater precision. This gives patients a reduced chance of motor function difficulties post-op, and allows for a shorter recovery period.”
One lucky benefactor of VectorVision is Missy Csiha, a Condell nurse. Missy had an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) that had ruptured, spilling blood into her brain. Test confirmed that the permanent removal of the AVM was necessary.
“If hadn't removed Missy's AVM, she would have to live with the possibility that it could rupture again”, said Jonathan Citow, MD, who used VectorVision for this procedure. Three months later, Missy was back at Condell in perfect health taking care of intensive care patients instead of being one herself.
Dr. Citow, Chief of Neurosurgery, has not only helped patients like Missy but has published several books which are used by physicians around the world and also help aspiring surgeons complete their Neurosurgical Board exams.
[Photo: Chief Neurosurgeon at Condell and author, Jonathan Citow,MD, (middle) uses VectorVision during brain surgery. VectorVision guides the surgeon to allow for greater precision which reduces post-op motor function difficulties and allows for a shorter recovery period.]