Consultant neurosurgeon Datuk Dr Kantha Rasalingam explains that neurosurgeons are trained to operate on the spine, brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. “For neurosurgeons, however, spine surgery is already part of their core training.”One key distinction between the specialities lies in surgical technique. According to Dr Kantha, neurosurgeons receive extensive training in microsurgery, which involves highly-precise procedures using specialised instruments and operating microscopes. In complex cases, such as long or multi-segment procedures, or surgeries involving the spinal cord or spinal cord compression, both specialists may operate together as a team. “Because we are trained to operate on the brain and spinal cord – two of the body’s most delicate structures – precision is one of our key strengths,” he says.

Source: The Star January 21, 2026 14:03 UTC