Referring Doctors' Corner
Neurosurgical Red Flags
These presentations warrant urgent neurosurgical referral or emergency department attendance.
Cauda equina syndrome
Bilateral leg weakness, saddle anaesthesia, bladder/bowel dysfunction
Rapidly progressive neurological deficit
Progressive limb weakness over hours to days
Symptoms following trauma
Neurological deficit after head or spinal injury
Signs of raised intracranial pressure
Headache, vomiting, papilloedema, decreased consciousness
New seizures with focal neurological signs
May indicate intracranial mass lesion
Spinal cord compression
Myelopathy, bilateral signs, sensory level
When to Request MRI vs CT
Quick reference guide for appropriate imaging in common clinical scenarios.
Back pain with red flags
MRI lumbar spine (urgent)
CT if MRI unavailable
Sciatica > 6 weeks
MRI lumbar spine
Include sagittal and axial T2
Head injury with neurological deficit
CT brain (urgent)
Non-contrast CT initially
Suspected brain tumour
MRI brain with contrast
Include T1, T2, FLAIR, post-gadolinium
Cervical myelopathy
MRI cervical spine
Include sagittal and axial sequences
Hydrocephalus
CT brain or MRI
CT for acute, MRI for chronic assessment
Referral Pathway
How to refer a patient to Dr Dzowa’s neurosurgical practice
Clinical Assessment
Complete clinical evaluation and relevant investigations. Include any imaging already performed.
Contact the Practice
Call +263 77 230 0337 or WhatsApp for routine referrals. For emergencies, call directly.
Provide Documentation
Send a referral letter with clinical history, examination findings, investigation results, and imaging.
Appointment Scheduled
The patient will be contacted with an appointment date. Emergency cases are seen on the same day.
Educational Content for Practitioners
Evidence-based referral guidelines, imaging protocols, and emergency contact information for GPs and specialists.
Brain Tumours
Brain Tumours What Are Brain Tumours? A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or surrounding tissues. Brain tumours may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They can arise from the brain itself or spread from cancer elsewhere in the body. The effects of a brain tumour depend on
Spinal Trauma
Spinal Trauma What Is Spinal Trauma? Spinal trauma refers to injuries affecting the spinal column, spinal cord, or surrounding structures. These injuries may result from motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, workplace accidents, or violence. Prompt medical assessment is essential to minimise the risk of permanent neurological damage. Common Symptoms Symptoms may include:
Degenerative Spine Disease
Degenerative Spine Disease What Is Degenerative Spine Disease? Degenerative spine disease refers to age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal discs, joints, ligaments, and vertebrae. These changes may result in pain, stiffness, and nerve compression. Although commonly associated with ageing, symptoms vary considerably between individuals. Common Symptoms Symptoms may include: When Should Medical