Professor Dr. Nezih Özkan – Experienced Neurosurgeon in Turkey

Introduction

Professor Dr. Nezih Özkan is a Turkish neurosurgeon associated with Memorial Şişli Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. He specializes in brain and nerve surgery, also known as neurosurgery, and has an extensive professional background in the diagnosis and surgical management of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system.

His clinical interests include brain tumors, spinal cord tumors, cerebrovascular diseases, head injuries, hydrocephalus, spina bifida, and spinal disc disorders. With decades of experience in neurosurgery and an academic background in medical education, he is a specialist for patients seeking consultations for complex neurological conditions and possible surgical treatment in Turkey.

Education and Professional Qualifications

Professor Dr. Nezih Özkan completed his medical education at Ege University in 1976. He subsequently pursued neurosurgical specialization at Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, completing his specialist training in 1982.

He received the academic title of associate professor in neurosurgery in 1991 and became a professor in 2010. His professional training also included neurosurgery and microsurgery studies at Zurich University Hospital in Switzerland between 1987 and 1989.

His international training and academic career have contributed to his professional background in brain and spinal surgery. Patients considering treatment should discuss the specific procedure they require, its potential benefits and risks, and the experience of the surgical team responsible for their care.

Expertise in Brain Tumor Surgery

Brain tumors can be benign or malignant and may develop in different areas of the brain. Symptoms depend on the tumor's size, location, growth rate, and effect on surrounding tissues. Patients may experience headaches, seizures, changes in vision, weakness, balance difficulties, or other neurological symptoms.

Neurosurgical assessment typically involves reviewing neurological symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and other investigations when appropriate. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include observation, biopsy, surgical removal, radiation therapy, or medication-based treatment coordinated with other specialists.

Professor Dr. Özkan's listed areas of expertise include brain tumors and neuro-oncological surgery. His role may involve evaluating whether surgery is appropriate and discussing treatment options with patients and their multidisciplinary care teams. The most suitable approach depends on the individual diagnosis and the location and characteristics of the tumor.

Spinal Cord Tumors and Spine Surgery

Spinal cord tumors and other spinal conditions can affect mobility, sensation, strength, and daily functioning. Some patients experience persistent back or neck pain, tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or symptoms caused by pressure on nerves and the spinal cord.

Professor Dr. Özkan's published specialties include spinal cord tumors and surgery for lumbar and cervical disc herniations. Depending on the condition, a neurosurgical evaluation may involve reviewing MRI scans, assessing neurological function, and considering whether conservative treatment or an operation is appropriate.

Spinal surgery may be recommended in selected cases when symptoms are severe, nerve compression is significant, or non-surgical treatment has not provided sufficient relief. The procedure depends on the affected spinal level, the cause of compression, and the patient's overall health. Recovery time and outcomes vary between individuals.

Cerebrovascular Diseases and Head Trauma

Cerebrovascular diseases affect the blood vessels supplying the brain. These conditions may include abnormalities that can cause bleeding, restricted blood flow, or other neurological complications. Head trauma can also produce injuries that require urgent assessment and, in certain circumstances, neurosurgical intervention.

Professor Dr. Özkan's listed expertise includes cerebrovascular diseases, head trauma, and brain and spinal cord injuries. Depending on the patient's condition, assessment may involve neurological examination, CT or MRI imaging, and consultation with other specialists.

Sudden facial weakness, difficulty speaking, loss of consciousness, a seizure, or a sudden severe headache can indicate a medical emergency. Such symptoms require immediate emergency assessment rather than waiting for a routine specialist appointment.

Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida

Hydrocephalus is a condition involving an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain's ventricles. Management depends on the underlying cause, symptoms, and severity. Selected patients may require a procedure to divert fluid and reduce pressure.

Spina bifida is a congenital condition involving incomplete development of the spine and surrounding structures. Treatment depends on the type of condition, associated neurological problems, and the patient's age and medical needs.

Professor Dr. Özkan's official profile lists hydrocephalus and spina bifida among his areas of expertise, including shunt surgery for hydrocephalus and surgical treatment for spina bifida. Patients should seek an individualized assessment to understand the available options and expected follow-up.

Professional Experience and Academic Background

Professor Dr. Özkan's professional history includes positions at Haydarpaşa Numune Research and Education Hospital, Bezmialem Vakıf Gureba Research and Education Hospital, Abant İzzet Baysal University Faculty of Medicine, and Acıbadem University Atakent Hospital. His listed responsibilities have included leading a neurosurgery clinic and serving as head of a university neurosurgery department.

He has also participated in international neurosurgical training and professional activities. His academic background and membership in Turkish neurosurgical organizations reflect his involvement in the wider professional field.

Neurosurgery at Memorial Şişli Hospital, Istanbul

Memorial Şişli Hospital is a medical facility in Istanbul, Turkey, where international patients can inquire about specialist consultations and treatment planning. Patients considering Professor Dr. Özkan for neurosurgery should confirm his current availability and the services offered for their particular condition directly with the hospital.

Before travelling, patients should prepare previous medical reports, MRI or CT images, pathology findings where relevant, medication lists, and details of previous procedures. They should request information about the recommended treatment, estimated costs, hospital stay, recovery period, possible complications, and follow-up arrangements.

Conclusion

Professor Dr. Nezih Özkan is an established Turkish neurosurgeon with a professional background spanning brain surgery, spinal conditions, cerebrovascular disorders, head trauma, hydrocephalus, and neuro-oncological surgery. His education, academic appointments, and long-standing clinical career make him a relevant specialist to consider when researching neurosurgery in Istanbul.

The right treatment depends on the patient's diagnosis, symptoms, and overall medical condition. A direct consultation with the specialist and the hospital's neurosurgical team is essential to determine whether surgery is necessary and which treatment approach is most appropriate.