Neurosurgery

Neurological surgery is usually touted as the toughest and most impressive specialty. Indeed, residency is at least 5 years following a year of general surgery and includes neurology, neuropathology, and neuroradiology. Neurosurgeons manage diseases and disorders of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and related structures. It is a high stress high risk job with both incredible and devastating outcomes. There is a wide range of patients. Surgeons often have to take night call; hours are long. However, compensation is very high and there are major advances in the field. There is also the satisfaction of being able to do something few others can.