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Our role The H.U.B’s Neuroimaging Department is equipped with two high-tech devices that enable us to map and study the functioning of the brain.  « Our principal activity is research », explains Professor Xavier De Tiège, head of the department. « It is ‘translational’ in the sense that we aim to bring the results of our research to clinical practice, for the benefit of patients ». Image Image The H.U.B’s Neuroimaging Department cooperates regularly with Neurosurgery, ENT, Radiology, la radiologie, Child Psychiatry, etc.To get more info about the service : SecMed [dot] MedNuc [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (SecMed[dot]MedNuc[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be). Our specialities The H.U.B’s Translational Neuroimaging Department has two leading edge technologies: Magnetoencephalography (MEG) records brain activity in a totally non-invasive way to a high degree of precision in terms of time (millisecond) and space (a few mm).  MEG has 2 clinically recognised indications:  to precisely pinpoint the epileptic source to be operated on in the case of refractory epilepsy;   to precisely locate functionally important areas of the brain  (for language, mobility, vision, etc.) in relation to a brain tumour or lesion that has to be operated on.   The department also contributes internationally to developing the MEG of the future based on a new sensor technology  known as optical pumping magnetometers. This MEG system can be fitted directly to the scalp  and offers a precision that is superior to the present system.   PET-MRI is a technology that combines magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and a  PET-Scan. It makes it possible to visualise the brain’s anatomy and functioning simultaneously. It is very useful for studying the brain’s structure and functioning in the case of brain tumours, multiple sclerosis, cognitive disorders  such as Alzheimer’s, certain learning difficulties in children, autism spectrum disorders, etc.    Our team Image Our specialists Research The functional neuroimaging platform at the ULB – of which the Translational Neuroimaging Department and the Neuroanatomy and Neuroimaging Laboratory  (LN2T) headed by Professor Xavier De Tiège are a part – enables researchers from the ULB’s Institute of Neurosciences, together with other Belgian laboratories and universities, to have access to MEG  and PET-MR technology. Within the ULB itself, research relating to these two devices concentrates on its sensomotor, language and cognitive functions. It is a question of studying how and to what degree certain brain diseases (epilepsy, tumours, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis) affect these major brain functions. Publications Lien vers https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ana.26844  On-Scalp Magnetoencephalography Based On Optically Pumped Magnetometers Can Detect Mesial Temporal Lobe Epileptiform Discharges Feys O, Ferez M, Corvilain P, Schuind S, Rikir E, Legros B, Gaspard N, Holmes N, Brookes M, Wens V, De Tiège X.Ann Neurol. 2024 Mar;95(3):620-622.  Lien vers https://pubs.rsna.org/doi/10.1148/radiol.212453?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%… On-Scalp Optically Pumped Magnetometers versus Cryogenic Magnetoencephalography for Diagnostic Evaluation of Epilepsy in School-aged Children Feys O, Corvilain P, Aeby A, Sculier C, Holmes N, Brookes M, Goldman S, Wens V, De Tiège X.Radiology. 2022 Aug;304(2):429-434.   Lien vers https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00259-020-05154-6  Structural and metabolic brain abnormalities in COVID-19 patients with sudden loss of smell Niesen M, Trotta N, Noel A, Coolen T, Fayad G, Leurkin-Sterk G, Delpierre I, Henrard S, Sadeghi N, Goffard JC, Goldman S, De Tiège X.Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging. 2021 Jun;48(6):1890-1901.   Lien vers https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/hbm.25247  Brain dysconnectivity relates to disability and cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis Sjøgård M, Wens V, Van Schependom J, Costers L, D'hooghe M, D'haeseleer M, Woolrich M, Goldman S, Nagels G, De Tiège X.Hum Brain Mapp. 2021 Feb 15;42(3):626-643.  

Our Clinic specializes in the diagnosis and management of movement disorders (including those caused by Parkinson’s disease). We offer a multidisciplinary approach, personalized follow-up, and access to advanced therapies. For specialized care of movement disorders Abnormal movements may result from various neurological, genetic, or metabolic diseases, may be related to certain medications or brain injuries, and are influenced by different risk factors. Their diagnosis and management therefore require specialized expertise to accurately identify the cause and adapt treatment in order to best preserve patients’ quality of life. Image Image Image Diagnosis and management of movement disorders We provide personalized care focused on quality of life and the patient’s goals through, among other things, a multidisciplinary approach integrating both motor and non-motor aspects (cognition, sleep, pain, mood, autonomy, etc.). When necessary, we refer patients to advanced therapies and specialized care pathways.  Personalized and multidisciplinary care Our comprehensive clinical assessment and longitudinal follow-up include the possibility of objectively tracking disease progression through clinical examinations, standardized scales, and even video recording when indicated. Movement disorders are not limited to motor symptoms; therefore, we pay special attention to non-motor symptoms and their impact on relatives. As a clinic within a leading university hospital, our academic expertise and our teaching and research activities directly benefit patients. Finally, our close collaboration with neurological rehabilitation within Erasmus Hospital allows us to offer optimal functional care and autonomy. Our care services Depending on the clinical situation, the Movement Disorders Clinic of the H.U.B offers:Specialized consultations (diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment adjustment)Assessment and management of:Parkinson’s disease and parkinsonian syndromesTremorsDystonia (involuntary muscle contractions causing abnormal postures or repetitive, sometimes painful movements)Chorea (rapid, jerky, unpredictable movements giving the impression the body is “dancing” involuntarily)TicsMyoclonus (sudden, very brief muscle jerks similar to involuntary startles)Gait and balance disorders (also called “ataxias”)Functional movement disordersEvaluation of complications (fluctuations, dyskinesia, pain, falls, autonomic nervous system disorders, sleep, anxiety, depression, fatigue, cognitive disorders, etc.)Referral to specific/advanced treatments when indicated (in collaboration with relevant teams):Botulinum toxin injectionsPump therapiesDeep brain stimulation (DBS)Coordination of multidisciplinary care (physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, neuropsychology, etc.)Patient education and information: practical advice, reliable resources, information sessions Make an appointment Our team The team of the Movement Disorders Clinic of the H.U.B includes specialized physicians and multidisciplinary healthcare staff:Physiotherapist: Sara Ben ChekrounSpeech therapist: Sophie RobertNeuropsychologists: Hichem Slama and Christelle MaenhoutPsychologist: Véronique Simons Dr. Frédéric Supiot, Director of the Clinic Position: Neurologist, specialist in movement disordersConsults for Parkinson’s disease, tremors, dystonia, and other movement disordersPrincipal investigator in clinical research (Enroll HD program for Huntington’s disease)Performs botulinum toxin injections for certain movement disorders such as dystonia and hemispasmExpertise in DBS (deep brain stimulation) implantation and programmingExpertise in initiation, adjustment, and follow-up of patients treated with Duodopa pump therapy Dr. Virginie Destrebecq Position: Neurologist, specialist in movement disordersConsults for Parkinson’s disease, tremors, dystonia, and other movement disorders, as well as degenerative cerebellar diseases (ataxia) and functional neurological disordersReference specialist for rare ataxia diseases within the European network (ERN-RND)Principal investigator in clinical and cross-sectional research (essential tremor) Dr. Vincent Leclercq Position: Neurologist, specialist in movement disordersConsults for Parkinson’s disease, tremors, dystonia, and other movement disordersPays special attention to non-motor symptoms (behavioral disorders, mood disorders, sexual dysfunction, urinary and digestive disorders, pain, etc.)Promotes a global approach, with links to neurological rehabilitation when neededPerforms DBS programming and botulinum toxin injections Dr. Alexandra Boogers Position: Neurologist, specialist in movement disordersConsults for Parkinson’s disease, tremors, dystonia, and other movement disordersExpertise in DBS implantation and programming Services we collaborate with Neurology Lien vers Neurology Neurosurgery Lien vers Neurosurgery Radiology - Medical Imaging Lien vers Radiology - Medical Imaging As part of our collaboration with the Neurology Department, we regularly work with:Neurological Rehabilitation Unit (multidisciplinary rehabilitation)Sleep Unit (polysomnography)Clinical Neurophysiology Unit (recording of abnormal movements) FAQ on Parkinson’s disease and its management 1. What is Parkinson’s disease? Parkinson’s disease is a chronic neurological disorder associated with a progressive decrease in dopamine in certain regions of the brain. It can lead to motor symptoms (slowness, stiffness, tremor), but also non-motor symptoms (sleep disorders, fatigue, constipation, pain, anxiety, cognitive disorders, etc.). 2. What are the first symptoms of Parkinson’s disease? The first symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can be subtle and variable. The most common are:Slowness of movement (bradykinesia),Stiffness (rigidity),Resting tremor (not always present),Reduced arm swing when walking,Smaller handwriting (micrographia),Changes in voice,Non-motor symptoms such as constipation, loss of smell, sleep disorders (especially agitation during dreams), or unusual fatigue. 3. At what age does Parkinson’s disease begin? Parkinson’s disease most often begins after the age of 60, but it can also affect younger people. Early-onset Parkinson’s is defined when symptoms appear before the age of 50. The age of onset varies from one person to another and does not necessarily affect the severity of the disease. 4. What are the causes of Parkinson’s disease? The exact causes of Parkinson’s disease remain partially unknown. It results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In most cases, the disease is not hereditary. Exposure to certain pesticides or toxins is being studied as a possible risk factor. 5. How is Parkinson’s disease diagnosed? The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is primarily clinical. It is based on neurological examination and observation of symptoms. There is currently no single biological test. Additional examinations (brain MRI, dopaminergic scintigraphy) may be performed to rule out other diseases. 6. Is there a treatment for Parkinson’s disease? There is currently no curative treatment for Parkinson’s disease, but several treatments can effectively relieve symptoms. Dopaminergic medications, rehabilitation (physiotherapy, speech therapy), and in some cases deep brain stimulation significantly improve quality of life. 7. Is Parkinson’s disease hereditary? In the vast majority of cases, Parkinson’s disease is not hereditary. Only 5 to 10% of patients have an identified genetic form. Having a relative with the disease does not necessarily imply a high risk of developing it. 8. What is the life expectancy with Parkinson’s disease? The life expectancy of people with Parkinson’s disease is close to that of the general population, especially when the disease is well managed. Medical advances and multidisciplinary care have significantly improved prognosis and quality of life. 9. Can you live normally with Parkinson’s disease? Yes, it is possible to live a long and active life with Parkinson’s disease. Appropriate treatment, regular physical activity, medical support, and psychological support allow many people to maintain their independence and a satisfactory social life for many years. 10. Where can you find reliable information about Parkinson’s disease? For reliable information about Parkinson’s disease, it is recommended to consult:Your neurologist,Recognized patient associations,Institutional websites (university hospitals, scientific societies),Resources validated by healthcare professionals.

Under construction The Erasmus hospital offers this service for the care of our patients. The page is currently being updated. However, you can make an appointment for this service by clicking on "make an appointment". Our team Image Our specialists

Our role Neurosurgery is the treatment of pathologies of the brain and vertebral column by means of surgery.Neurosurgery works in close cooperation with the Departments of Neurology, Neuroradiology, Interventional Neuroradiology, Paediatrics and Endocrinology, as well as with the Jules Bordet Institute's Radiotherapy Department.     Image We are both surgeons and neurologists. We are therefore familiar with all the diseases of the brain: brain tumours, neurological malformations, epilepsies and also head injuries, etc. Our specialities The HUB Interhospital Department of Neurosurgery spans 5 clinics: The Neuro-Oncology Clinic treats benign and cancerous tumours of the brain, in cooperation with the Jules Bordet Institute. This clinic also possesses Belgium's only Gamma-Knife Centre.  This particular form of radiotherapy delivers a major dose of radiation to a very precise point in the brain in a single session. This makes it possible to treat brain metastases, trigeminal nerve neuralgias, meningiomas, etc.     The Vertical Column Clinic is concerned with pathologies, injury or trauma affecting the vertical column that can be treated with surgery. Examples: discal hernia, vertebral fracture, etc.   The Clinic for Skull Base Surgery is concerned with the lower zone of the brain, which begins at the level of the forehead and "descends" towards the neck.    The Functional Neurosurgery Clinic aims to improve or restore a function impaired by a brain disease. Examples: ablation of an epilepsy source site that is unresponsive to other treatment, the placing of intracerebral electrodes to reduce Parkinson's disease symptoms, reduction of spasms caused by multiple sclerosis, etc.   The Paediatric Neurosurgery Clinic operates in conjunction with the HUDERF children's hospital. This reputed structure cooperates regularly with the prestigious Necker Hospital in Paris.    Our team Image Our medical specialists Focus The Interhospital Department of Neurosurgery has developed great expertise in surgery of the skull base by endoscopic means. The Erasmus Hospital is one of two centres in Belgian that practices this procedure. Developed by neurosurgeons in cooperation with the Ear, Nose and Throat Department, it consists of operating on tumours  – often benign, such as pituitary adenomas  – by passing through the nose.     Research Most doctors at the HUB Interhospital Department of Neurosurgery undertake clinical research. In neuro-oncology, the treatment of brain tumours   – in adults as well as children – is an important line of research. 

Description Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also known as Von Recklinghausen syndrome, is a rare genetic disease. It is characterised in particular by skin anomalies such as birthmarks known as café au lait spots. Symptoms linked to the development of tumours along the nerves (neurofibromas) can occur and develop over time. The brain, eyes, bones and kidneys can be affected, to a variable degree but sometimes seriously.   Treatment This disease requires an early diagnosis, in early childhood, and must be monitored by a specialised multidisciplinary team. The Children’s Hospital has provided this follow-up for many years, in the form of regular and systematic consultations with a number of specialists. For the comfort of the children and their families these consultations are arranged on the same day and take place once a year, although sometimes more frequently depending on the age and particularities of the child. The monitoring begins before birth and continues through the growth years of childhood and into adulthood. As they reach adulthood a transition consultation can be arranged at the Erasmus Hospital. Patients can be prescribed innovative medicines, depending on their individual situation and in line with international recommendations. Our team works in close cooperation with other specialists and paramedical teams at the Children’s Hospital as well as with GPs and paediatricians, child therapists (physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, etc.), support services, respite care services, associations and psycho-medico-social centres.    Our specialists Children's patients (Children's Hospital)The multidisciplinary consultation is organised by the Neuroaediatrics Department (Co-ordinating doctor: Dr Anne Monier; Co-ordinating secretary: Ms Daniela Wayllace). Co-ordinating doctor and neuropaediatrician: Dr Anne MonierDermatologist: Dr Pamela El NemnomOphthalmologist: Dr Sophie LhoirOrthopaedist: Dr Jean-Paul KaleetaNephrologist: Dr Khalid IsmailiGeneticist: Dr Catheline VilainSecretary coordinator: Mrs Daniela Wayllace (02 477 39 67) Adult patients (Erasmus Hospital)The consultation is organised by the Neurology Department (Cons [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be)Neurologist: Dr Chantal DepondtNeurologist: Dr. Gauthier RemicheNeurologist: Dr Michela Bisciglia