Bestclinicabroad
Connect with the world's Best Clinic and doctors at Best Clinic Abroad. Your well-being is our priority, with personalized care every step of the way.
Connect with the world's Best Clinic and doctors at Best Clinic Abroad. Your well-being is our priority, with personalized care every step of the way.
Neurological disorders are among the leading causes of disability worldwide. According to global health data from the World Health Organization and other neurological societies, conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, and traumatic brain injuries affect hundreds of millions of people each year. The growing burden of neurodegenerative diseases and cerebrovascular disorders has increased the demand for experienced neurologists and neurosurgeons who work within structured and safety-focused healthcare systems.
Belgium has a nationally regulated healthcare framework supported by university hospitals and tertiary referral centers. Neurologists and neurosurgeons in Belgium complete extensive medical education followed by specialist training accredited under national and European standards. Many practice in academic institutions where patient care, research, and medical education are closely integrated. Clinical practice typically follows recognized European guidelines for stroke management, epilepsy treatment, brain tumor surgery, spinal procedures, and neurocritical care.
Modern neurology and neurosurgery in Belgium include advanced imaging such as MRI and CT, intraoperative navigation systems, minimally invasive spine surgery when appropriate, and structured intensive care monitoring after major procedures. Treatment plans are individualized, based on neurological examination, imaging findings, and overall health status. Multidisciplinary collaboration between neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, rehabilitation specialists, and psychologists is common.
For international patients, Belgium offers coordinated hospital systems and regulated patient-safety standards. Costs vary depending on complexity and hospital setting. Emotional and psychological support is recognized as an important part of care, especially for patients facing chronic neurological conditions or major brain and spine surgery. Overall, Belgium provides an evidence-based and structured environment for neurological and neurosurgical evaluation.
Paul Van Haverbeke, MD
Specialization: Neurosurgery
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Hospital: University Hospitals Leuven (UZ Leuven)
Dr. Paul Van Haverbeke practices neurosurgery at UZ Leuven, a tertiary academic center. His clinical focus includes brain tumors, skull base surgery, and complex cranial procedures. Cases are reviewed in multidisciplinary neuro-oncology boards before surgical planning. Intraoperative imaging and neuronavigation systems are used when clinically indicated. Postoperative monitoring includes structured neurocritical care and rehabilitation planning.
Bart Nuttin, MD, PhD
Specialization: Functional Neurosurgery
Years of Experience: 30+ years
Hospital: University Hospitals Leuven (UZ Leuven)
Professor Bart Nuttin is known for his work in functional neurosurgery, including deep brain stimulation for movement disorders and selected psychiatric conditions. His practice follows strict patient selection criteria and international guidelines. Procedures are performed within a multidisciplinary team involving neurologists and neuropsychologists. Preoperative evaluation includes imaging and a comprehensive clinical assessment. Long-term follow-up is part of treatment planning.
Patrick Cras, MD, PhD
Specialization: Neurology and Neurodegenerative Disorders
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Hospital: Antwerp University Hospital
Professor Patrick Cras focuses on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. At Antwerp University Hospital, he contributes to diagnostic evaluation and long-term management strategies. Clinical care includes cognitive assessment, imaging review, and symptom monitoring. Treatment decisions are individualized and based on recognized neurological guidelines. Multidisciplinary collaboration supports comprehensive patient care.
Vincent Thijs, MD, PhD
Specialization: Stroke Neurology
Years of Experience: 20+ years
Hospital: University Hospitals Leuven (UZ Leuven)
Professor Vincent Thijs specializes in acute stroke management and cerebrovascular disease. His work includes thrombolysis and stroke prevention strategies when clinically appropriate. At UZ Leuven, he participates in structured stroke unit programs that follow European stroke guidelines. Diagnostic imaging and vascular assessment guide treatment decisions. Secondary prevention planning is part of long-term care.
Geert Vanhooren, MD
Specialization: Spine Neurosurgery
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Hospital: Ghent University Hospital
Dr. Geert Vanhooren focuses on spinal surgery, including degenerative spine disease, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis. At Ghent University Hospital, minimally invasive approaches are considered when appropriate. Surgical planning involves MRI evaluation and functional assessment. Risks such as nerve injury, infection, and recurrence are discussed in consultation. Postoperative rehabilitation is individualized.
Marc Lemmerling, MD
Specialization: Neuroradiology
Years of Experience: 20+ years
Hospital: AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende
Dr. Marc Lemmerling is a neuroradiologist who supports neurological and neurosurgical diagnosis through advanced imaging interpretation. His work includes MRI and CT evaluation of brain and spine conditions. Accurate imaging assessment contributes to safe surgical planning and risk reduction. Collaboration with neurosurgeons and neurologists ensures integrated care. Radiation safety principles guide imaging selection.
Dirk De Ridder, MD, PhD
Specialization: Neurosurgery and Neuromodulation
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Hospital: University Hospitals Leuven (UZ Leuven)
Professor Dirk De Ridder works in neuromodulation and complex neurosurgical procedures. His clinical interests include chronic pain and selected neurological disorders managed with implantable devices. Patient selection is based on structured neurological assessment and guideline-based criteria. Procedures are performed in regulated surgical environments. Follow-up includes device monitoring and symptom evaluation.
Christian Raftopoulos, MD
Specialization: Cerebrovascular and Skull Base Neurosurgery
Years of Experience: 30+ years
Hospital: Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels
Professor Christian Raftopoulos practices cerebrovascular and skull base neurosurgery. At Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, cases are evaluated in multidisciplinary conferences. Surgical approaches are tailored to tumor type, vascular anatomy, and patient condition. Risks such as bleeding, neurological deficits, and prolonged recovery are discussed in detail. Postoperative intensive care monitoring supports early complication detection.
The specialists listed above are provided for informational purposes only and do not represent rankings or endorsements.
| Consultation Type | Estimated Cost Range |
| Neurologists and Neurosurgeons consultation | $350–$450 |
Note: Costs are approximate and provided for general guidance only. Prices vary depending on the healthcare provider, hospital type, city, and consultation format (in-person or remote). Diagnostic tests, imaging, or additional evaluations are not included. Final fees are determined by the provider after an individual clinical assessment and may be affected by currency fluctuations.
Seeking neurological or neurosurgical care abroad can feel complex. You may have concerns about safety, expertise, and communication. Taking time to understand hospital systems and regulatory standards can help you make informed decisions about your care.
➤ Availability of English-speaking medical staff and professional medical translators in many facilities
➤ Specialized clinics that manage a high volume of international patients
➤ Government regulations and oversight mechanisms supporting medical tourism safety and international patient protection
➤ Structured hospital documentation, patient-safety protocols, and informed consent practices
For international patients, practical matters should be reviewed carefully. Visa or entry requirements depend on your nationality and intended length of stay. After major brain or spine surgery, a postoperative stay of at least 7–14 days is often recommended to allow early monitoring and wound assessment. In larger cities such as Brussels, Leuven, Antwerp, and Ghent, multilingual support is common, while smaller regions may have more limited language services. Planning structured follow-up care with your local neurologist or neurosurgeon after returning home is essential for long-term safety and monitoring.
Patients considering Neurologists and Neurosurgeons care in Belgium can share their medical reports, imaging scans, and clinical history with Best Clinic Abroad to receive coordinated guidance on consultation options and structured support for treatment planning.
Do I need a medical visa to travel to Belgium for neurological or neurosurgical treatment?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the expected duration of treatment. Many non-European patients require a Schengen visa for medical travel. You should contact the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country to confirm documentation requirements. Hospitals may provide appointment confirmation letters, but visa approval decisions are made by immigration authorities.
Can I communicate in English with neurologists and neurosurgeons in Belgium?
In major university hospitals and tertiary centers, many neurologists and neurosurgeons speak English. International patient departments often assist with coordination and documentation. However, language support may vary outside large cities. If needed, interpreter services can usually be arranged in advance to support clear communication during consultation.
Is it possible to arrange an online consultation before traveling for neurological treatment?
Yes, you can request an online consultation through Best Clinic Abroad. You may securely share MRI scans, CT reports, laboratory results, and prior medical records for preliminary review. This helps you understand whether an in-person evaluation in Belgium is appropriate and what additional tests may be required. Final treatment decisions are made only after a comprehensive clinical assessment.
How long should I plan to stay in Belgium after neurosurgery?
The recommended stay depends on the type and complexity of the procedure. Brain or spinal surgeries often require hospital monitoring followed by outpatient review before travel. Many patients are advised to remain in Belgium for at least 7–14 days after discharge, depending on recovery progress. Your treating team will provide individualized guidance.
What happens with follow-up care once I return home?
Follow-up care is an essential part of neurological and neurosurgical treatment. Before traveling home, you should obtain a detailed discharge summary, imaging copies, and medication instructions. Coordination with your local neurologist or neurosurgeon helps ensure continuity of care and ongoing monitoring. Clear documentation supports safe long-term management.
Disclaimer
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed medical specialist based on individual clinical evaluation.
