Brain surgery at Dr. Zuhair Abu Salma’s clinic
Dr. Abu Salma reads your brain MRI or CT, examines you, and explains what the imaging and symptoms suggest.
Common reasons patients come in
These are examples of conditions reviewed at the clinic. The actual review depends on your specific imaging and symptoms:
What the visit usually looks like
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Before the visit
The doctor reviews your brain MRI or CT and prior reports in advance, so the consultation time is spent on explanation.
- 2Step 2 of 3
Review of imaging and clinical examination
Clear scientific diagnosis that helps you understand your condition and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
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Plan the next step
The plan may include further imaging, hormonal or visual testing (for pituitary tumor cases), a follow-up visit, or a discussion of a procedure. You leave with a clear summary.
What to prepare
Bringing the following helps the clinic team review your case efficiently:
- Brain MRI or CT on CD/DVD, or a printed report with images
- Any prior imaging for comparison, even from years ago
- A list of current symptoms with when they started and how they change
- A list of current medications and previous treatments
- For pituitary cases: recent hormone blood tests and visual field test results
- Sudden severe headache unlike any before, with or without vomiting
- New seizure, new confusion, or sudden change in speech or vision
- Progressive weakness on one side, or sudden loss of consciousness
Common questions from patients
Do all brain tumors need surgery?
No. Many brain findings are followed with imaging over time, especially small and slow-growing ones. Surgery is considered when the imaging and symptoms together suggest it is the appropriate next step. The decision is made case by case.
What is skull base surgery?
Skull base surgery comprises delicate procedures to treat tumors and conditions affecting the skull base, while preserving the important nerves and blood vessels as much as possible. The appropriate surgical approach is determined after evaluating the case and reviewing the medical imaging.
How long is the typical hospital stay?
Hospital stay depends on the procedure and on the patient. It is discussed during the visit once the procedure plan is clear. The doctor coordinates the pre-admission and discharge planning.
Can I send my MRI ahead of the visit?
Yes. Use the contact page to send files. Sending ahead lets Dr. Zuhair Abu Salma review the images before the visit so the consultation focuses on explanation and discussion.
Do I need to stop any medications before a procedure?
Some medications (such as blood thinners) may need to be stopped before certain procedures. During the visit, the doctor gives clear instructions on which medications to continue, stop, or adjust.
Related specialties
Other specialties seen at the clinic:
Related reading
In-depth articles on this specialty
Brain Tumor Awareness
Warning Signs of a Brain Tumor: Symptoms Worth Checking
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When Tumor Surgery Can Restore Vision: The Skull-Base Story
Some tumors near the base of the brain press on the visual pathways. When evaluated and operated on in time, vision may improve — sometimes dramatically.
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Rare Brain and Neck Masses in Children: What Families Should Understand
A calm explanation of why rare pediatric brain and upper-neck masses require advanced imaging, specialist review, and careful discussion before treatment.
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Rare Masses Near the Brainstem in Infants: Why Patient, Careful Evaluation Comes First
Finding a mass near the junction of the brain and the neck in an infant is frightening. The first job is not to rush — it is to understand what the imaging really shows.
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