Neurosurgeons are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. They perform surgery on the nervous system, but they can also provide nonsurgical treatments. Neurosurgeons assess, diagnose, and treat conditions that affect the body’s nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and spinal column, and all of the nerves that extend from the spinal cord. They can also diagnose and treat conditions that affect the structures that support the nervous system, including the skull, spinal vertebrae, spinal disks, blood vessels, protective membranes, and soft tissues. Neurosurgeons are skilled in several surgical and procedure techniques, including open surgery and minimally invasive surgery. They also provide the operative and non-operative care of patients with injury to, or diseases/disorders of the brain, spinal cord and spinal column, and peripheral nerves within all parts of the body. Neurosurgeons work closely with other health specialists such as emergency room doctors and neurologists regarding their cases.