Neurosciences

The directorate of clinical neurosciences provides regional services for neurosurgery, Neurology and Neurophysiology and has interdependent relationships with the neuro-radiology and neuropathology departments.

Neurosurgery and neurology offer investigation and treatment of emergency and non-urgent cases. Follow-up and continuing care are undertaken by senior consultants through a network of clinics at peripheral hospitals throughout Northern Ireland.

Neurophysiology primarily services the clinical areas of the directorate, but also provides services for other clinicians within and outside the Royal on a regional basis.

The directorate is involved with the teaching of medical graduates and undergraduates and professional training is provided for medical, nursing and paramedical staff. Research into the causes, treatment and prevention of neurological disease is also carried out.

The in-patient service offers a 24 hour emergency service for admissions and for telephone advice for medical practitioners throughout Northern Ireland.

A range of outpatient clinics are provided including, a specialist migraine clinic, supported by the Migraine Trust, TIA clinics and epilepsy clinics. Strong partnerships have been developed with the Belfast City Hospital to deliver neurology services for example Parkinson's Disease and Epilepsy. Nurse led clinics are currently being developed.

A tele-neurology service is now provided to the Tyrone County and Erne Hospitals by two senior consultants. It is anticipated that this service will be expanded in the future to other hospitals.

The neurosciences directorate provides a number clinical nurse specialists; epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke and Macmillan who provide a comprehensive service which complements the Neuroscience specialty.

'Brainwaves' is a support group set up to help patients (and their families) suffering from brain tumours. It is organised and led by the patients and their families. 'Headway' is another support group for patients following head injury.

Specialist areas include: