Neurosurgeons in Japan Are Exclusively Brain Surgeons.

BACKGROUND: In Japan, neurosurgeons have traditionally mainly treated brain diseases, with most cases involving the spine and spinal diseases historically being treated by orthopedists. Nowadays, spinal surgery is 1 of the many subspecialties in the neurosurgical field in Japan.

METHODS: Most patients with neurological deficits or suspected neurological diseases see board-certified neurosurgeons directly in Japan, not through referrals from family physicians or specialists in other fields.

RESULTS: Problems originating in the spine and spinal cord have been overlooked or misdiagnosed in these situations.

CONCLUSIONS: Neurosurgeons in Japan must rethink the educational program to include advanced trauma life support and spinal surgery.