Neurology treatment in China: planning questions

Neurological conditions and treatment options in China

Brain tumours — glioma, meningioma, acoustic neuroma

A qualified neurosurgical team should assess the imaging, pathology, symptoms and prior treatment, and explain whether an operation or another approach is appropriate.

• Glioma (including glioblastoma, GBM) — awake craniotomy for tumours in eloquent cortex; fluorescence-guided resection; integration with radiation oncology and temozolomide chemotherapy
• Meningioma — skull base meningioma requiring complex approaches; minimally invasive options for suitable cases
• Acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) — both microsurgical resection and CyberKnife radiosurgery available; hearing preservation protocols
• Pituitary tumours — endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery with dedicated pituitary surgery teams

For brain tumours unsuitable for open surgery (due to location, size, or patient fitness), CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery provides a non-invasive high-precision alternative — available at Foshan FIMC for GBA-based patients, and at select Shanghai centres.

Stroke — acute and rehabilitation

For acute ischaemic stroke, timing is everything. For post-stroke patients seeking rehabilitation or secondary prevention consultation, China's major stroke centres offer:

• Mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion (Huashan, Zhongshan)
• Comprehensive stroke unit care and rehabilitation
• Carotid endarterectomy and carotid stenting for secondary prevention
• Complex cerebrovascular malformations (AVM, aneurysm) — both surgical and endovascular approaches

Parkinson's disease and movement disorders

Ask a movement-disorder specialist whether medication review, rehabilitation or an assessment for a device-based treatment is appropriate. Eligibility, risks, costs and aftercare require individual clinical review.

Epilepsy — drug-resistant cases

For epilepsy, ask the treating neurologist whether further assessment is appropriate and what testing, medicine review or other options are relevant. Confirm any hospital service through that institution’s official channels.

Spinal conditions

For spinal conditions, ask the relevant specialist to review imaging, symptoms and prior treatment and explain the options, risks and alternatives. A second opinion does not guarantee a different recommendation.

Questions about research treatments

Experimental technologies require specific regulatory and research approval. Ask the responsible hospital to confirm study status, eligibility, safeguards and alternatives; do not treat a research report as a routine treatment offer.

Cost comparison

Common questions from neurology patients

What should I confirm before planning an appointment?

The hospital confirms appointment availability and the clinical schedule after reviewing the records. Do not book travel until the hospital and relevant authorities have confirmed the necessary arrangements.

I have Parkinson's and want to consider DBS. How do I know if I'm a candidate?

Only a qualified movement-disorder team can assess suitability for deep brain stimulation. Ask the relevant hospital about its assessment route, examination requirements, risks, alternatives and aftercare. This guide does not offer access to Huashan specialists through WELLIN.

What should I confirm before planning an appointment?

This guide does not establish that a hospital or country is safer than another. Ask the proposed clinical team about its experience with the diagnosis, relevant evidence, risks, alternatives and the plan for complications and follow-up.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. All treatment decisions should be made with a licensed physician. WELLIN Pro International Health is a professional services and does not provide diagnosis or treatment.