Conditions and services

Neurosurgeons at Ascension Medical Group St. John Neurosurgery in Tulsa, Oklahoma use advanced surgical techniques to relieve brain, spine, and nerve conditions.

Ascension Indiana, St. Vincent neurosurgery for brain and spine care

Advanced diagnosis and treatment for neurosurgical conditions

Our neurosurgeons start by listening to you and your concerns. Neurosurgical disorders can cause symptoms including pain, weakness, loss of sensation, memory loss, problems with speech, mobility challenges, and more. On the Ascension St. John Medical Center campus, we provide advanced neurodiagnostic imaging to diagnose and treat your neurosurgical condition. Brain and spine imaging includes: 3D brain mapping, cerebral angiograms, MRI, and PET brain imaging. Then, if needed, we work with a multidisciplinary team of specialists to create a comprehensive care plan.

To make an appointment with Dr. Tyler Auschwitz, Dr. Mohammad Kalani, or Dr. Thomas Rapicki, please call 918-748-7854.

 

Conditions treated

  • Arachnoid cyst
    Arachnoid cysts are fluid-filled sacs between the brain or spinal cord and the surrounding membrane. These cysts are either present at birth or develop as a result of head injury, trauma, or disease. There are many treatment options for arachnoid cysts. Your care team will create a care plan that’s right for you.
  • Brain aneurysm (cerebral aneurysm)
    An aneurysm occurs when there is swelling in a blood vessel that causes it to bulge. The bulging can rupture, which is known as a hemorrhage. There are many different treatment options for a brain aneurysm, including surgery. We have a multidisciplinary team that collaborates to provide comprehensive care. We also support you and your family throughout your treatment and recovery.
  • Brain bleed (intracranial hemorrhage)
    A brain bleed occurs when there is bleeding in the skull. There are several types of brain bleeds. Your neurosurgeon and care team quickly assess your brain bleed to determine the type and severity. Then, we deliver advanced care that stops the bleeding and reduces the effects of the brain bleed.
  • Brain tumor and brain cancer
    Brain tumors can be cancerous or noncancerous. Our neurosurgeons have the expertise to diagnose and surgically remove both cancerous and noncancerous tumors on the brain and spine. Our experienced multidisciplinary care team helps you and your family understand the effects of the tumor and provides support throughout your treatment and recovery.   
  • Carotid artery disease
    Carotid artery disease occurs when there is a blockage in the carotid artery that leads to decreased blood flow to the brain. This may lead to an increased risk of stroke. Treatment may include medications and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the blockage or open up the area of the blockage.
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
    Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when one of the major nerves leading into the hand becomes compressed or squeezed. This compression can cause symptoms such as pain, weakness, tingling or numbness. We work with you to determine which treatment option is right for you. Treatment options range from therapy and medications, to carpal tunnel release surgery.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF)
    CSF occurs when the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord leaks out through a hole or tear in the membrane. This fluid, known as cerebrospinal fluid, provides cushioning and protection for the brain and spinal cord. Our team identifies the right treatment option for you.
  • Chiari malformation

    A Chiari malformation is when the lower part of the brain pushes down through the spinal canal. There are four types of Chiari malformations:

    • Chiari malformation type I: Type I is the most common and least severe type of Chiari malformation. It is usually diagnosed in adolescence or adulthood.
    • Chiari malformation type II (also known as Arnold-Chiari malformation): Type II is when the lower part of the brain pushes into the opening between the skull and spinal cord, and has missing or partially formed nerve tissue connecting the two halves of the brain. Type II Chiari malformations are often associated with spina bifida.
    • Chiari malformation type III: A rare and severe form of Chiari malformation where the cerebellum and part of the brainstem push out through an opening in the skull. This type of malformation usually involves significant neurological concerns and is diagnosed at birth.
    • Chiari malformation type IV: The least common and most severe type is Chiari malformation type IV. It involves an incomplete or underdeveloped lower part of the brain. Those with Chiari malformation type IV may also have severe developmental conditions.

    Our team of experienced specialists diagnose and identify which treatment option is right for you or your child. This may include monitoring, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

  • Herniated discs (slipping or bulging disc)

    A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of a disc is pushed out into the spinal canal. The herniated disc can push on spinal nerves, often causing pain. Herniated discs can occur in the neck (cervical spine), middle back (thoracic spine), or lower back (lumbar spine). They are usually caused by age-related degeneration, trauma injury, heavy lifting, or sudden strain.

    Our team of experienced spine specialists make a diagnosis and identify which treatment option is right for you. Treatment options may include monitoring, medications or surgery.

  • Hydrocephalus
    Hydrocephalus is an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain that puts pressure on the brain tissue. Hydrocephalus may be congenital, which means it is present at birth, or it can be acquired, meaning it develops after birth as a result of injury or disease. Surgery is the most common treatment option for hydrocephalus.
  • Intracranial hypertension (IH)
    This condition occurs when the pressure around the brain inside the skull is higher than normal. Elevated intracranial pressure causes symptoms such as severe headache, changes in vision, and a whooshing sound in the ears. There are different treatment options for intracranial hypertension, including medication and surgery. Our team works with you to create a care plan that’s right for you.
  • Myelopathy
    Myelopathy is a condition where the spinal cord becomes compressed. It is usually caused by injury or age-related degeneration Treatment options vary depending on severity. Our care team works with you to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
  • Neurofibromatosis
    Neurofibromatosis is a disorder that causes tumors to grow in the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. There are three main types of neurofibromatosis: Type I, Type II and Type III. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of neurofibromatosis. The most common treatment options include monitoring, medication, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Parkinson's disease
    Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder of the central nervous system. It’s a progressive condition, meaning that it can get worse over time. There are many treatment options, including deep brain stimulation (DBS), to help manage symptoms. DBS is a surgical therapy that uses electrodes implanted in specific areas of the brain to generate electrical impulses. These impulses help to reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
  • Radiculopathy
    Radiculopathy occurs when one or more nerves leaving the spinal column are compressed or irritated. This can lead to symptoms such as weakness, tingling, pain, or numbness. Our care team works with you to create a care plan that's right for you.
  • Seizures and epilepsy
    Seizure disorders and epilepsy occur when neurons in the brain send the wrong signal and cause seizures. There are many types of seizures and epilepsy. Treatment options may include diet and lifestyle changes, medication, epilepsy surgery, or neurostimulation devices.
  • Skull injury
    Skull injuries can cause damage to the bones of the skull and the brain. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Skull injuries require immediate emergency care. Our team of skilled specialists quickly evaluate your injury and provide advanced emergency care for traumatic injuries.
  • Spinal stenosis
    Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal becomes narrowed, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Spinal stenosis can occur in the neck (cervical spine), middle back (thoracic spine), or lower back (lumbar spine). We work with you to create a care plan that’s right for you based on the type and severity of your spinal stenosis.
  • Spine tumor
    Spine tumors can be cancerous or noncancerous. Our neurosurgeons have the expertise to diagnose and surgically remove both cancerous and noncancerous tumors on the brain and spine. Our experienced multidisciplinary care team helps you and your family understand the effects of the tumor and provides support throughout your treatment and recovery.
  • Syringomyelia
    Syringomyelia is a condition that causes a fluid-filled cavity or cyst (also called syrinx) to form in the spinal cord. The cyst may grow over time, and can compress or damage the surrounding spinal cord tissue. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of your symptoms. Your care team helps determine which treatment option is right for you.
  • Tethered spinal cord
    A tethered spinal cord occurs when the spinal cord is abnormally attached to surrounding tissues of the spine. This may be present at birth (congenital), or it can develop at the site of a spine injury. In children, symptoms may include a hairy patch on the back, pain, spinal malformations, and loss of bladder and bowel control. In adults, symptoms include pain, loss of bladder and bowel control, and other sensory and motor problems. Surgery is usually the recommended treatment option. Your surgeon will help determine which treatment option is right for you.
  • Traumatic spine injury
    Traumatic spine injuries can range from minor to life-threatening. Treatment depends on the type and severity of your injury. We provide a full range of treatments, including surgery and spinal cord stimulation. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) uses a device that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord, we can help manage your pain. SCS modifies pain signals before they reach your brain, reducing pain. Placement of the device is a surgical procedure.
  • Trigeminal neuralgia
    Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic condition that causes sudden and severe pain in the face. The treatment options include medication and surgery. Your care team will explain your treatment options, and help create a care plan that is right for you.
  • Vascular formations
    Vascular malformations are abnormal formations of blood vessels in the brain or spine that can disrupt normal blood flow. They may be present at birth or develop over time. Symptoms may include weakness, trouble speaking, trouble walking, and pain. In some cases, vascular malformations can lead to serious complications. There are many treatment options, including surgery. Your neurosurgeon works with you to create a personalized care plan.