Neurosurgery in St James
SYMEON MISSIOS, M.D., FAANS
Dr. Missios is a board-certified neurosurgeon at
Long Island Brain & Spine, specializing in both cranial and spinal procedures and with subspecialty training in the surgical and radiosurgical management of brain tumors and in minimally invasive endovascular neurosurgery. Click here for Neurosurgery in St James!
Dr. Missios received his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Biological and Biochemical Sciences from Duquesne University, in Pittsburgh, PA where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He obtained his medical degree from Dartmouth Medical School, in NH, where he was elected as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. He graduated medical school with honors and was the recipient of the prestigious Dean’s Medal Award for the highest academic achievement in his class. He completed his internship and residency in neurological surgery at Dartmouth-Hitchcock University Hospital in NH and received his subspecialty training in the field of brain tumors at Cleveland Clinic, in OH, where he completed a fellowship in Neurosurgical Oncology and Stereotactic Radiosurgery. He continued his subspecialty training by completing a second fellowship in the field of Endovascular Neurosurgery and Neurovascular Critical Care at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia.
Dr. Missios’ clinical expertise involves the treatment of benign and malignant tumors that originate in the brain or that have metastasized there. He has extensive experience in the use of advanced intraoperative neuronavigation techniques such as intraoperative tractography, brain mapping and electrocorticography that allow the safe resection of complex brain tumors that occupy critical areas in the brain. He is also an expert in stereotactic radiosurgery, a very precise way of delivering radiation to the tumor while sparing any radiation exposure to the rest of the brain, and is highly effective for the treatment of a variety of intracranial tumors.
Dr. Missios is also a part of the Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Excellence at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, the only Joint Commission Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center in the South Shore of Long Island. He received extensive training in endovascular neurosurgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, one of the largest stroke centers in the country, and his expertise involves the surgical and minimally invasive endovascular treatment of stroke, brain aneurysms and other vascular neurosurgical pathologies.
In addition to his clinical expertise in the management of brain tumors, stroke and brain aneurysms, Dr. Missios’ clinical skills span a wide range including spine surgery for degenerative, traumatic or tumor pathologies as well as surgery for peripheral nerve disorders, brain and spine trauma and neuromodulation for intractable back and leg pain.
Dr. Missios has a very strong academic background and has been involved in more than 80 peer-reviewed publications. He serves as a reviewer for multiple neurosurgical journals. He is a member of the Population Health Research Institute of New York at CHS. His academic projects have won several awards including the Kenneth Shulman Award, awarded to the best research project presented at the annual meeting of the Joint Section of Pediatric Neurological Surgery, and 1st place award in the Socioeconomic Category at the 83rd annual meeting of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.
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What Exercises to Avoid With Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal Stenosis occurs when there isn’t enough space inside the backbone. It restricts your pain-free movement. So, what should you avoid with spinal Stenosis? Our Neurosurgery in St James, Dr. Symeon Missios, wants you to know so you don’t hurt yourself any further or worsen your condition. If you’re interested in the activities to avoid when you have spinal Stenosis, please continue reading below.
What to Avoid with Spinal Stenosis?
The changes from wear and tear in the spine related to arthritis are the most common cause of spinal Stenosis. While surgery from our Neurosurgery in St James can ease the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, the arthritis pain unfortunately can’t be fixed by surgery. What exercises should you avoid doing to minimize or avoid the pain caused by spinal Stenosis? The following are some, but not all, of the exercises to avoid:
- High-impact exercises like running, jumping, and climbing
- Any contact sports like football, basketball, and lacrosse
- Long walks, especially on uneven surfaces like the beach
- Long periods of standing up
- Back extension exercises and stretches
- Heavy lifting
- Twisting and bending
If you have pain while performing a movement not on this list, you should avoid it, too. Even if you don’t have pain, you should avoid everything on this list, as it might worsen your condition.
Simple Pain Relievers
If you need a quick way to relieve your pain, the list below might help. It’s not a way to treat spinal Stenosis, but it might help with the pain temporarily. Try the following:
- Bed Rest
- Massages
- Wear a lumbar support belt
Treatments for Spinal Stenosis
There are many treatment options for spinal Stenosis. The proper treatment depends on the severity of the spinal stenosis, and it is done on a case-by-case basis. Our Neurosurgery in St James offers the following treatment options:
- Medications
- Therapeutic exercise
- Epidural steroid injections
- Decompression procedures
- Spinal fusion
- Artificial disk replacement
Contact Symeon Missios For Neurosurgery in St James
Contact us today if you want to know which treatment method is right. Our Neurosurgery in St James will assess your case and recommend a treatment option. At Dr. Symeon Missios, we strive to personalize your experience and help you decide on your next step.
Is a Meningioma Serious?
Meningiomas are a type of brain tumor that arises from the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. While “tumor” can understandably raise concerns, not all meningiomas are malignant. However, their seriousness can vary greatly depending on their size, location, and growth rate. At Symeon Missios, MD, we specialize in neurosurgery in St. James, providing expert care and treatment options for patients diagnosed with meningiomas.
Meningiomas are the most common type of primary brain tumor, accounting for about 30% of all brain tumors. They are typically benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, they can still cause significant health issues due to their location and size. Meningiomas grow slowly, which often means symptoms develop gradually. These symptoms can include headaches, vision problems, seizures, and changes in behavior or mental status, depending on the tumor’s location in the brain. If you experience these symptoms, seeking neurosurgery in St. James can provide the necessary evaluation and treatment.
Understanding The Seriousness of Meningiomas
The seriousness of a meningioma depends on various factors:
- Size and Location: Larger tumors or those in critical areas of the brain can cause significant neurological issues.
- Growth Rate: Most meningiomas grow slowly, but some can grow more quickly, increasing brain or spinal cord pressure.
- Symptoms: The severity of symptoms can indicate the seriousness of the tumor. For instance, tumors causing severe headaches, vision changes, or seizures need prompt medical attention.
- Potential for Recurrence: Even benign meningiomas can recur after removal, requiring ongoing monitoring and possibly additional treatment.
Given the potential complications, it is crucial to consult a specialist in neurosurgery in st james if you experience symptoms that could be related to a meningioma. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing the condition effectively.
Treatment Options
Treatment for meningiomas depends on the tumor’s size, location, and symptoms. Small, asymptomatic meningiomas may be monitored with regular imaging. Surgery is recommended for symptomatic tumors or those compressing the brain, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving neurological function. Radiation therapy may follow surgery or treat inoperable tumors to control or shrink them. At Symeon Missios, MD, we provide expert neurosurgery in St. James and offer personalized treatment plans for meningiomas.
Contact Us For Neurosurgery in St James
At Symeon Missios, MD, we specialize in comprehensive neurosurgery in St. James and offer personalized treatment plans for meningiomas. If you or a loved one has symptoms or a diagnosis of meningioma, contact us to discuss treatment options and receive the best care.
Tips For Managing Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can significantly impact your daily life, affecting your physical and emotional well-being. However, with the guidance of Dr. Symeon Missios, for Neurosurgery in St James, you can implement strategies to better manage and cope with chronic pain. Here, we’ll explore valuable tips and techniques to help you navigate and alleviate chronic pain effectively. Contact us today to learn more!
Understanding Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is characterized by persistent discomfort that lasts for an extended period, often beyond the normal healing time of an injury or illness. It can result from various conditions, including arthritis, nerve damage, fibromyalgia, and more. Managing chronic pain requires a comprehensive approach that addresses physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors.
Tips for Managing Chronic Pain
Here are some practical tips recommended by Neurosurgery in St James, NY, to help you better manage chronic pain:
- Work with a Pain Management Specialist: Consult an experienced pain management doctor who can evaluate your condition, develop a personalized treatment plan, and provide ongoing support.
- Medication Management: Follow your doctor’s prescription guidelines for pain medications and promptly communicate any concerns or side effects.
- Physical Therapy: Participate in tailored exercises and physical therapy sessions to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion, reduce pain, and enhance function.
- Mind-Body Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or tai chi to reduce stress, tension, and pain perception.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, prioritize sufficient sleep, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these factors can influence pain levels.
- Supportive Devices: Use assistive devices such as braces, splints, or ergonomic tools to support proper posture and reduce strain on affected areas.
Empowering Chronic Pain
By implementing these tips and working closely with Neurosurgery in St James, NY, you can take proactive steps to manage chronic pain effectively and improve your overall quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance and support from Dr. Symeon Missios and the dedicated Neurosurgery in St James, NY, to find relief and enhance your well-being. Contact us today to learn more!