Specialist neurosurgical and spine care
NJIN offers a focused set of neuroscience services delivered by Consultant Neurosurgeon Dr. Franz Pencle and the multidisciplinary team at GWest Centre. Each pathway is structured around specialist evaluation, evidence‑based treatment planning, and longitudinal follow‑up.
Neurosurgical Consultations
Specialist evaluation for new and ongoing neurological symptoms, with treatment planning grounded in clinical expertise and current evidence.
A consultation begins with a detailed history and neurological examination, review of any prior imaging or investigations, and discussion of the patient's goals. Where indicated, additional imaging or studies are arranged, and a personalised treatment plan is developed in collaboration with the patient and their referring clinician.
- New patient assessments for neurological and spinal symptoms
- Second opinions on existing diagnoses or surgical recommendations
- Pre‑operative planning, including imaging review and risk discussion
- Post‑operative follow‑up and longitudinal care
Brain & Spine Care
Comprehensive surgical and non‑surgical management of brain and spinal conditions, from first consultation through recovery.
The brain and spine pathway covers both operative interventions (where surgery is indicated) and structured non‑operative care plans for patients whose conditions are best managed conservatively. Treatment decisions are made with the patient, informed by imaging, examination findings, and the patient's overall health and goals.
- Brain tumor evaluation, surgical planning, and resection where indicated
- Spinal disease assessment — degenerative, traumatic, and structural
- Head injury evaluation and surgical management
- Hydrocephalus assessment and treatment, including shunt management
- Non‑surgical care plans where surgery is not the right path
Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery
Where clinically appropriate, surgical techniques designed to improve precision, reduce tissue disruption, and support a better recovery experience.
Minimally invasive approaches are considered when they offer a clear clinical advantage for the specific case. The decision is always grounded in patient anatomy, the nature and location of the pathology, and the expected outcome — not technique for its own sake. When a more traditional approach is the right path, that is recommended openly.
- Selected spinal procedures with reduced muscle and tissue disruption
- Endoscopic and image‑guided techniques where appropriate
- Transparent discussion of when minimally invasive is and is not the right choice
- Recovery‑focused planning and post‑operative pathways
Pain Management
Specialist oversight for spinal disease, nerve‑related pain, and persistent neurological symptoms requiring specialist attention.
Many patients arriving at NJIN do not require surgery — they require clear, specialist‑led management of pain rooted in spinal or neurological conditions. The pain management pathway focuses on accurate diagnosis of the pain's underlying source, appropriate intervention, and structured ongoing care that is reassessed over time.
- Specialist evaluation of chronic and acute neurological pain
- Treatment of nerve‑related pain and persistent post‑operative symptoms
- Coordination with referring clinicians for ongoing care
- Honest guidance on what surgery can and cannot resolve
Speak with a specialist about your condition
A consultation is the right first step for any new symptoms, a second opinion, or ongoing concerns. The booking process is straightforward and confirmations are sent by email.