Innovative, noninvasive diagnosis and treatment 

Piedmont's neuroscience department provides innovative, noninvasive diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the nervous system—specifically the brain, head and spinal cord.

The neurosciences are comprised of two disciplines: neurology, which is the study of diseases affecting the nervous system that can be treated with medications, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis; and neurosurgery, which is the use of surgical techniques to treat nervous system dysfunctions, such as brain tumors and arteriovenous malformations (relating to the arteries or veins).

Piedmont has the distinction of being the oldest tradition in both neurological surgery and neurology in the Southeast. Our first neurologist was hired in 1908. Today the department is comprised of 14 board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons, all of whom specialize in treating neurological injuries, herniated discs, pain management, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and other related conditions. Although technology plays an important role in neuroscience, our emphasis remains on providing consistent, high-quality patient care.

Our physicians use the most advanced techniques and technology to treat neurological disorders—including minimally invasive endoscopic surgery for certain spinal conditions, deep-brain stimulation for disabling tremors and drug pumps for disabling spasticity. Patients feel less pain during endoscopic procedures and are able to return to daily activities sooner.

The neuroscience staff collaborates with other physicians, radiation therapists, pain management specialists, and occupational, physical and speech therapists as needed to develop an appropriate, comprehensive course of care for each patient's particular needs.

Piedmont is involved in an FDA clinical-controlled trial studying the implantation of an artificial cervical disk as an alternative to spine fusion. We remain a national leader in minimal-access spine surgery.