Chronic Back Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist for Effective Treatment
Chronic back pain? Hello Doctor: My mother is 64 years old. She worked as a hairdresser when she was younger and has been suffering from back pain for 30 years. Recently, the pain has worsened to the point where she feels pain even while walking, and only feels more comfortable w...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Please visit the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for further examination. Thank you.[Read More] Chronic Back Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist for Effective Treatment
Is a 0.6 cm Changing Mole on My Scalp a Cause for Concern?
A 0.6 cm mole has been found on the scalp, and it has changed color? Today, a friend noticed a large mole on the top of my head, near the back of my skull. It has a diameter of about 0.6 centimeters, with a brownish outer edge and a black center that is neither raised nor sunken....
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
You need to see a neurosurgery or plastic surgery outpatient clinic. A direct examination is necessary for diagnosis. Thank you.[Read More] Is a 0.6 cm Changing Mole on My Scalp a Cause for Concern?
Understanding Hemianopia: Treatment Options and Expert Insights
Regarding the issue of hemianopia? Hello Doctor: When I was twelve years old, I fell from upstairs and suffered a left cerebral hemorrhage. I did not undergo surgery, but afterwards, I experienced symptoms similar to a stroke, with reduced mobility on my right side. I received tr...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Unable to provide a detailed answer. Please consult neurosurgery and ophthalmology for further examination.[Read More] Understanding Hemianopia: Treatment Options and Expert Insights
Understanding Treatment Options for Carotid-Cavernous Fistulas
Carotid-cavernous fistula What are the current treatment options for carotid-cavernous fistulas in modern medicine? How effective are these treatments? Are there any potential complications or risks involved? Thank you for your clarification!
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Craniotomy can be performed for aneurysm clipping or combined with cerebral angiography for aneurysm embolization treatment. The former requires general anesthesia and carries a high surgical risk. The latter can be done under local anesthesia but is technically challenging. Curr...[Read More] Understanding Treatment Options for Carotid-Cavernous Fistulas
Can I Opt for Artificial Bone Only in L4-L5 for My Spine Surgery?
Regarding spinal surgery? Hello Doctor: I have been advised by my physician to undergo artificial bone implantation at the L2-L3 and L4-L5 intervertebral spaces, with the L4-L5 area being the most severe. The physician mentioned that the artificial bone for the L4-L5 space could ...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Artificial bone cage implants must be approved by the National Health Insurance Administration before use, which takes approximately two weeks. For those who do not undergo spinal fusion surgery, a microdiscectomy can also be performed. However, if surgery is required, patients m...[Read More] Can I Opt for Artificial Bone Only in L4-L5 for My Spine Surgery?
Understanding Compensatory Sweating After Endoscopic Sympathectomy
excuse me? 1. Is there any hope for compensatory sweating below the chest after undergoing endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis? Are there any reversal surgeries available? 2. I've heard that if only the first and second segments are resected, recovery is pos...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) for palmar hyperhidrosis typically involves the cauterization of the second and third thoracic sympathetic ganglia. Compensatory hyperhidrosis is a common complication that can lead to new concerns. The surgical approach using cauterization...[Read More] Understanding Compensatory Sweating After Endoscopic Sympathectomy
Chronic Back Pain Radiating to Chest: Causes and Treatment Options
Back pain with accompanying chest pain? Hello, I have been experiencing back pain for over six months, specifically in the area near the right scapula. The pain is persistent and radiates to my right chest, sometimes to the point where it makes me feel nauseous. I have consulted ...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
You may experience pain from your back to the left anterior chest, which is similar to thoracic nerve root pathology. You should first consult a neurosurgeon and undergo a thoracic MRI for further diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Zheng's clinic hours are Monday afternoons and We...[Read More] Chronic Back Pain Radiating to Chest: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Bee Venom Aftereffects: Impact on Health and Immunity
Bee venom sequelae After a bee sting, if there is a swelling that persists and continues to move around multiple times, can it damage the immune system and hinder blood circulation? Will it affect health? Will it impact saliva secretion? What is Sjögren's syndrome?
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Regarding the immune response to bee stings, a bee sting can potentially trigger allergic reactions, which may manifest as urticaria and lymphadenopathy. In severe cases, it can lead to mucosal edema, respiratory difficulties, or anaphylactic shock. Individuals who are all...[Read More] Understanding Bee Venom Aftereffects: Impact on Health and Immunity
Risks of Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation at L3 Level Explained
Risks of Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation at the L3 Level Hello Dr. Cheng, Three years ago, I underwent a discectomy for a herniated disc at the L4-L5 level, during which a titanium alloy cage was implanted and fusion was performed. Recently, I had an MRI two weeks ago that re...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Herniated discs at the L3-L4 level rarely cause paralysis due to nerve root or cauda equina compression. To avoid further surgery, it is essential to strengthen your abdominal and back muscles to reduce spinal strain. Please consult a rehabilitation specialist for further guidanc...[Read More] Risks of Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation at L3 Level Explained
Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Nerve Damage, and Disability Benefits
Herniated disc Hello Doctor: Nine years ago, I had a herniated disc at L4/L5/S1 that compressed my nerves, resulting in loss of sensation and inability to walk in my left leg. This month, I returned to the surgeon for electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, which sho...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Hello: If there is already atrophy in the calf before the surgery, it may not fully recover after the surgery. You can apply for a disability certificate only if the affected area impacts the mobility of the lower limb joints. Please provide your full name, ID number, and address...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Nerve Damage, and Disability Benefits
Understanding Sympathetic Nerve Surgery for Blushing: Risks and Treatments
Facial flushing sympathetic nerve surgery? Hello, I would like to ask if there are still significant complications from sympathetic nerve surgery for treating facial blushing? If there is compensatory sweating, are there medications available for treatment? Also, I have heard tha...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Complications include compensatory hyperhidrosis, Horner's syndrome (ptosis, miosis, and anhidrosis on one side of the face), hemothorax, and pneumothorax. There is no medication available to treat compensatory hyperhidrosis. Neurosurgeons and thoracic surgeons at major medi...[Read More] Understanding Sympathetic Nerve Surgery for Blushing: Risks and Treatments
Understanding Spinal Cord Injury: Treatment Options and Clinical Trials
Spinal cord injury Hello Doctor; I have a 32-year-old male friend who has been hospitalized for over three months due to a car accident. He currently requires respiratory support and cannot undergo further examinations, so we do not know the extent of his neurological injuries. H...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Based on your description, your friend likely has a high cervical spinal cord injury resulting in quadriplegia, respiratory muscle paralysis, and incontinence. Due to cervical instability, a cervical collar is still being used. To assess the condition of the cervical spinal cord ...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Cord Injury: Treatment Options and Clinical Trials
Are Flashing Lights in Vision Linked to Arteriovenous Malformation?
Is the presence of persistent flashes of light related to arteriovenous malformations? Hello, Doctor! I was hospitalized last December due to bleeding from an arteriovenous malformation. After receiving medication to lower intracranial pressure, I regained consciousness, but my l...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
After gamma knife radiosurgery for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), it typically takes about 2-3 years (depending on the size of the malformation) for the abnormal blood vessels to undergo embolization, eliminating the risk of bleeding. You discovered the cerebrovascular abnor...[Read More] Are Flashing Lights in Vision Linked to Arteriovenous Malformation?
Understanding the Link Between Sympathetic Nerve Surgery and Facial Flushing
The relationship between sympathetic nerve resection and blushing? Thirteen years ago, I underwent a sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis. After the surgery, compensatory sweating shifted to my legs and the soles of my feet, and I also experienced facial flushing. I'm unsure if t...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
It is rare to experience hand cracking and rosacea-like skin conditions after sympathetic nerve ablation. Long-term inappropriate use of medications is more likely to be the cause. It is recommended that you consult another dermatologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Sympathetic Nerve Surgery and Facial Flushing
Effective Surgical Options for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures in Seniors
Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures in the elderly? Hello, my grandmother is 87 years old and has suffered from vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis. She has undergone conservative medical treatment with little effect and cannot sit for long periods. I hav...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
In elderly patients, vertebral compression fractures must first undergo differential diagnosis to determine whether they are solely due to osteoporosis or if they are pathological fractures (common causes include metastatic cancer, osteomyelitis, or multiple myeloma). Reliable di...[Read More] Effective Surgical Options for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures in Seniors
Understanding Shoulder Pain and Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help
Shoulder pain and numbness in the back? Hello Doctor: I have to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects at work. Every day, I experience numbness on both sides of my back near the spine, which has persisted for over a year. It is very distressing, and sometimes even the tip...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Hello, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Zheng Zhong in the neurosurgery department. The clinic hours are Monday afternoons and Wednesday mornings. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding Shoulder Pain and Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Post-Surgery Complications After Meningioma Removal
Postoperative conditions after meningioma surgery? My wife experienced several episodes of aphasia four months ago, and after examination, a meningioma was discovered. She underwent a minimally invasive surgery to remove it (although it is unclear if it was completely excised), a...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Post-surgery, it is necessary to conduct follow-up imaging studies to confirm whether the brain tumor has been completely resected. Antiepileptic medications should be continued for six months after brain tumor surgery to prevent seizures, as recurrent seizures can cause damage t...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Complications After Meningioma Removal
Is Surgery the Only Option for Lumbar Disc Issues? Expert Advice Needed
Hello, Dr. Cheng! Dear Dr. Cheng, After my consultation, the doctor informed me that my lumbar spine at the L4-L5 levels shows dark areas on the MRI and recommended surgery. Is there truly no other option available, and is surgery the only way forward? My symptoms include occasi...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
An MRI showing a dark intervertebral disc indicates decreased water content and reduced elasticity. This does not necessarily mean that surgery is required. Generally, it is important to assess whether the disc is herniated and compressing the nerve, and if conservative treatment...[Read More] Is Surgery the Only Option for Lumbar Disc Issues? Expert Advice Needed
Understanding Thigh Nerve Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Thigh nerve pain Hello doctor, for several months now, when I sit cross-legged with my left thigh, I experience pain and soreness in the upper part. When I stand up, I cannot put any weight on my left foot and need to rest for a few seconds before I can move. At night, I also fee...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
Please visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic for further examination. Wishing you well with your joints.[Read More] Understanding Thigh Nerve Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Can Torn Finger Ligaments Be Reattached? Expert Insights and Costs
Reattachment of finger ligaments Hello Dr. Cheng, I would like to ask you a question. Many years ago, I suffered a deep cut on my thumb from glass. At that time, the exterior was stitched up with hundreds of stitches, but the tendon was not reattached. As a result, my thumb can...
Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery
1. The inability to flex the thumb normally and apply force after an injury years ago may be due to: (1) the tendon cannot be reattached as described, (2) scar tissue contracture, (3) adhesive capsulitis of the joint, (4) adhesion of ligaments and tendons. 2. Given that several...[Read More] Can Torn Finger Ligaments Be Reattached? Expert Insights and Costs