Sample Video 6

February 28th, 2024 by New Jersey Brain and Spine

What are the differences between brain tumors including meningioma, astrocytoma, glioblastoma

When people hear the words brain tumor, they often imagine a single disease. In reality, there are many different types of brain tumors, each with unique origins, growth patterns, and treatment approaches. Among the most common primary brain tumors are meningioma, astrocytoma, and glioblastoma. Understanding how they differ helps patients and families make sense of diagnoses and treatment plans. How brain tumors are classified Doctors classify brain tumors based on where they start and how they behave: Primary brain tumors...

When is Aneurysm Stenting the Right Treatment Option?

When Aneurysm Stenting Is the Right Option – NJ Brain & Spine Aneurysm Guide A brain aneurysm ruptures every 18 minutes in the U.S., according to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, meaning 30,000 Americans experience the health emergency every year. A range of brain aneurysm treatment options exist, including the minimally invasive aneurysm stenting. In fact, a meta-analysis of stent-assisted coiling determined that in 98% of 976 patients the stents were placed successfully. The same research shows that for half of...

Neurosurgical Myths vs Facts: What Patients & Providers Should Know

At New Jersey Brain and Spine, our physicians routinely encounter misconceptions about neurological and spine care. These misunderstandings can delay appropriate evaluation, referral, or treatment. In everyday clinical practice, many neurological conditions present subtly, evolve over time, or have treatment options that are more advanced than patients (and even some providers) realize. Below, we address some of the most common neurosurgical myths we hear—and the clinical realities behind them. Myth: Minimally invasive surgery is just a limited version of open...

Vivistim Stroke Recovery Therapy: A Breakthrough for Upper-Limb Function

From being one of the earliest U.S. adopters of the IRRAflow tool for brain bleeds to groundbreaking augmented reality (AR) X-ray vision spine technology, New Jersey Brain and Spine is always at the forefront of innovative treatments that make a meaningful difference in the physical and emotional health of our patients. Now, we’re proud to highlight New Jersey Brain and Spine’s commitment to compassionate, innovative care includes offering new cutting-edge treatments when they can make a meaningful difference for our...

Cavernous Malformations vs. Arteriovenous Malformations: Key Differences

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are abnormal blood vessel formations in the brain or spinal cord. Both can rupture and bleed, but AVMs can be more severe because they involve high blood flow, while cavernous malformations have slow blood flow. Understanding the differences between the two helps patients and families make more informed decisions about monitoring, intervention, and where to seek expert neurovascular care, such as at New Jersey Brain & Spine. Neurovascular anomalies: Normal blood flow...

Dr. George J. Kaptain, MD - NJ Brain and Spine

Meet Dr. George Kaptain: A Leading Neurosurgeon in New Jersey on 30 Years of Subspecialized Care

For more than two decades, Dr. George Kaptain, MD, FAANS has helped shape the philosophy and growth of New Jersey Brain and Spine as a neurosurgeon specializing in brain, spine, skull-base tumors and pituitary tumors. As NJBS celebrates 30 years of practice, Dr. Kaptain reflects on the practice’s evolution, its guiding values, and the future of subspecialized care in New Jersey. What was your vision for the practice when you joined the board? When I joined the practice in 2003,...

Surgical Innovation Spotlight: Dr. Roy Vingan and the Lateral Approach for Spinal Fusion Surgery

When Dr. Roy Vingan, co-founder of New Jersey Brain and Spine, first encountered lateral access spine surgery nearly two decades ago, he saw more than a new surgical route. He saw the future of spine surgery. He first heard about the lateral approach in 2006, and flew out to San Diego to train on it. “Like any new procedure, there’s a learning curve. By my third case I realized it was challenging, but I knew it was worth mastering,” says...

Lumbar Discectomy vs. Conservative Treatment: When Is Surgery the Better Option?

Understanding your options for herniated disc relief—and how to know when it’s time to consider surgery Back pain has a way of quietly reshaping daily life—until one day, it becomes impossible to ignore. For Mark, a 42-year-old Bergen County father of two and avid weekend cyclist, discomfort in his lower back started as a nuisance. Long rides felt harder. Sitting through work meetings became uncomfortable. Over time, the pain began radiating down his leg, making even short walks difficult. What...

Artificial Cervical Disc Replacement vs. Cervical Fusion: Recovery, Mobility, and Long-Term Outcomes

Understanding two surgical paths for spine pain—and how the right choice can protect your quality of life Chronic neck or back pain doesn’t just hurt—it changes how you move, work, sleep, and show up for the people you love. For Andrea, a 39-year-old New Jersey marketing executive and mother of two, persistent neck pain began as stiffness after long workdays. Over time, it evolved into shooting arm pain and numbness in her fingers, making it difficult to type, drive, or...