Patient Information
Last updated:
This page is intended to help patients and their families prepare for the first assessment at the neurosurgery outpatient clinic. Bringing the existing medical documents and imaging studies to the visit makes it easier to assess the condition and to discuss the treatment options.
What should you bring to the first visit?
If possible, have the following information and documents with you:
- Imaging studies: digital copies of the MRI, CT, angiography and other images relating to your condition.
- Medical reports: radiology and pathology reports and, if any, previous operation reports.
- Current medication: the names and doses of the medicines you take regularly, in particular blood thinners and anti-seizure medication.
- Previous treatment: information on any previous operations, radiotherapy, radiosurgery or other treatment.
- Your complaints: when your symptoms began, how they have progressed and what assessments have been made so far.
It is not essential for all of these documents to be ready before the first visit. Bringing what is available is sufficient; any further investigations that are needed can be planned after the assessment.
How should imaging studies be prepared?
Digital copies of the MRI, CT and angiography images in DICOM format are preferred where possible. The images can be obtained on CD or USB memory stick, or through the secure access system provided by the healthcare institution.
Radiology reports contain important information, but they do not always take the place of a detailed review of the images themselves. In surgical assessment in particular, direct review of the images is important.
What is assessed at the first visit?
At the first visit, the patient’s complaints, the findings of the neurological examination, previous treatment and the current imaging results are assessed together.
Depending on the features of the condition, regular follow-up, surgical treatment or other treatment options may come into consideration. In some cases, additional imaging, laboratory tests or assessment by other specialties may be needed before a decision can be made.
In patients for whom surgery is being considered, the aim of the operation, the methods that may be used, the expected benefits, the possible risks and the alternatives are discussed.
The timing of the treatment decision depends on the features of the condition. In some cases further assessment and follow-up are appropriate, while other conditions call for intervention without delay.
Second opinion
In patients who have already been diagnosed or offered treatment at another healthcare institution, the existing findings can be reassessed.
The purpose of a second opinion is to assess the existing diagnosis and treatment recommendation in the light of the scientific evidence, to explain the suitable options and to help the patient understand the treatment decision better.
Having the previous imaging studies, medical reports and information on the recommended treatment to hand makes this assessment easier.
Appointments and medical assessment
Outpatient appointments for the Neurosurgery Clinic of the University of Health Sciences, Tepecik Training and Research Hospital are made through the Central Physician Appointment System (MHRS) or by calling ALO 182.
This website does not provide individual medical assessment, online review of images or patient consultation by e-mail.
The descriptions of diseases and treatments on this site are for general information; they do not take the place of an individual examination and medical assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make an appointment?
Appointments for the Neurosurgery Outpatient Clinic of Tepecik Training and Research Hospital can be made through MHRS or by calling ALO 182.
How should I bring my MRI and CT images?
If possible, bring digital copies of the images in DICOM format together with the relevant radiology reports.
Is the treatment decision made at the first visit?
In some patients the existing examination and imaging findings are sufficient for a treatment plan to be decided. In others, further tests or assessment by other specialties may be needed.
Does every patient need surgery?
No. Depending on the type and features of the condition, regular follow-up, drug treatment, surgery or other treatments may be considered.
Can I come for a second opinion?
Yes. The existing investigations of patients who have already been diagnosed or offered treatment can be reassessed. It is helpful to have the previous medical documents and images available.
How can I find out about the team that will perform the operation?
When surgical treatment is being considered, the planning of the operation, the specialties involved and the course of treatment can be discussed during the clinical assessment.
Should I change my medication before the visit?
No. Do not stop or change the dose of your regular medication unless your doctor has specifically advised it. Changes to blood thinners and anti-seizure medication in particular require medical assessment.
In the event of emergency symptoms such as sudden weakness, disturbance of speech, loss of consciousness or a sudden, very severe headache, emergency medical help should be sought by calling 112 without waiting for an outpatient appointment.