Pearls for Starting a Headache Surgery Practice in Academic and Private Practice.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Plastic Surgery
• Headache Medicine

Background:

• Growing evidence supports the efficacy of headache surgery for refractory headache disorders.
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recognized peripheral nerve decompression surgery as a standard of care in 2018.
• This recognition has led to increased interest among plastic surgeons in developing headache surgery practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline key considerations and essential pillars for establishing a successful headache surgery practice.
• To provide guidance for plastic surgeons in both academic and private settings.
• To address the challenges associated with launching a specialized headache surgery clinic.

Main Methods:

• This report synthesizes current evidence and expert considerations for practice development.
• It outlines foundational elements for clinical and administrative success.
• The focus is on practical strategies applicable to diverse practice environments.

Main Results:

• Establishing a successful headache surgery practice requires careful planning and execution.
• Key pillars include patient selection, surgical technique, multidisciplinary collaboration, and practice management.
• Addressing specific challenges in academic versus private settings is crucial.

Conclusions:

• Headache surgery is a viable and increasingly recognized treatment modality.
• Successful practice establishment hinges on a comprehensive approach addressing clinical and operational aspects.
• This report serves as a foundational guide for surgeons entering this specialized field.