Dr. Benjamin Ditty, MD is a Neurosurgeon dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Neurosurgical care for older adults. He practices at his clinic in Naples, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). A general neurosurgeon possesses specialized expertise in diagnosing and surgically treating a wide range of complex neurological conditions common in older adults, such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and brain tumors, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcome. Dr. Ditty is committed to providing exceptional care for older adults (typically 65 and over) and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (239) 649-1662 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Benjamin Ditty, MD is a neurosurgeon in Naples, FL with over 15 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine in 2009 and completed an internship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine in 2010. He is Board Certified in Neurosurgery by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and is affiliated with medical facilities such as Naples Community Hospital and Lee Memorial Hospital. Dr. Ditty's approach to care is rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, he strives to provide the best possible outcomes for his patients. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Ditty provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Benjamin Ditty is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Benjamin Ditty is a compassionate neurosurgeon dedicated to providing comprehensive, person-centered care for seniors. He expertly diagnoses and treats a wide range of neurological conditions, from spinal stenosis to brain tumors, always prioritizing the patient's well-being and collaborating with their primary care physician and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcome and a smooth transition through their care journey.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Benjamin Ditty can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield of California
Cigna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO
- National (BlueCard) PPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Benjamin Ditty provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Dural Tear: Sometimes during spine or brain surgery, a small tear in the protective covering (dura) can happen; thankfully, this is usually repairable, leading to better outcomes and reduced discomfort.
- Nerve Root Injury and Plexus Disorders (incl. Pinched Nerve): Plexus disorders, affecting networks of nerves, and pinched nerves can impact daily activities; treatment focuses on easing pain and improving nerve function, often through a combination of conservative and surgical options, to enhance independence.
- Vascular Disease: Vascular diseases, like strokes, disrupt blood supply to the brain, potentially leading to cognitive decline or physical limitations; timely diagnosis and treatment, including medication and surgery in some cases, can help preserve brain function and quality of life.
- Traumatic Brain Injury: A TBI is a serious brain injury resulting from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury; rehabilitation and ongoing medical care can significantly improve recovery and enhance the well-being of seniors.
- Broken Neck: A fracture in the bones of the neck can cause significant pain and limit movement, but with appropriate medical care, including surgery in many cases, seniors can recover and improve their quality of life.
- Tethered Cord Syndrome: Tethered cord syndrome occurs when the spinal cord is anchored to the surrounding tissues, leading to various neurological problems; surgical untethering can often improve function and reduce pain.
- Cancer of Cerebral Meninges: While a diagnosis of a cerebral meningeal cancer (meningioma) may be unsettling, effective treatments are available to manage this type of brain tumor, focusing on symptom relief and preserving quality of life for seniors.
- Brain Abscess: A brain abscess is a life-threatening infection within the brain needing urgent medical attention, with treatment aiming to eliminate the infection and restore your cognitive function and overall health.
- Thoracic Spine Fracture: A thoracic spine fracture, a break in the bones of your middle back, may affect your daily activities, however treatment options are available to minimize pain and help you remain active and engaged.
- Scoliosis: With age, scoliosis can worsen, leading to pain and limited movement; however, treatments such as bracing or surgery can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Hypothalamus Cancer: Hypothalamus cancer is a serious but treatable condition involving a part of the brain that manages many bodily functions; with a team of doctors, a personalized treatment plan can help manage symptoms, preserve independence, and improve quality of life for seniors.
- Spine Disorders: Problems with your spine, such as a compressed nerve or worn-out discs, can impact your ability to move freely, but various treatments including surgery, can improve your comfort and quality of life.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Benjamin Ditty offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Posterior Lumbar Fusion With Robotic Assistance: Posterior lumbar fusion with robotic assistance is a surgical procedure that helps stabilize the spine and alleviate pain caused by conditions like spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease in older adults.
- Peripheral Nerve Block: As part of a senior's comprehensive pain management plan, a peripheral nerve block can provide temporary pain relief while other treatments are explored, significantly enhancing their quality of life.
- Carotid Artery Stent Placement: To diagnose and treat narrowed carotid arteries, seniors may undergo carotid artery stent placement, a procedure that improves blood flow and reduces the risk of stroke, a major concern in later life.
- Neurostimulation: This technique helps seniors suffering from intractable neuropathic pain by delivering precisely targeted electrical impulses, potentially reducing reliance on high doses of pain medication.
- Spinal Fusion: Spinal fusion surgery helps to alleviate nerve compression and instability, improving symptoms for seniors with conditions like spinal stenosis, thus allowing for increased participation in daily activities.
- Neuroplasty: For seniors with nerve-related pain, neuroplasty offers a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery, potentially improving their quality of life.
- Spinal Discectomy: As part of a comprehensive care plan, spinal discectomy helps manage persistent back pain and leg numbness caused by a compressed nerve, enabling seniors to enjoy a more active lifestyle.
- Dural Repair or Other Spinal Cord Repair: Dural repair helps mend tears in the protective covering of the spinal cord, relieving pressure and improving nerve function for seniors experiencing spinal pain.
- Vertebroplasty: Vertebroplasty helps seniors manage the debilitating pain from spinal fractures, providing a pathway towards better mobility and a more fulfilling life.
- Herniated Disc Surgery: Herniated disc surgery helps manage chronic pain and improve mobility in older adults by addressing the underlying cause of their symptoms, leading to a better quality of life.
- Brain Surgery: Brain surgery offers a potential treatment option for seniors experiencing symptoms from brain conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.
- Vascular Transcatheter Embolization: As part of a senior's comprehensive care plan, transcatheter embolization can be used to treat certain types of tumors or abnormal blood vessels, improving symptoms and quality of life.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Neurosurgeries in Florida.
Dr. Benjamin Ditty is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After surgery, a senior felt less pain and more secure at home, finally able to resume their daily walks in the neighborhood park. The family rejoiced at their improved quality of life.
- With the guidance of a neurosurgeon, a senior was able to resume knitting, a cherished hobby, after experiencing significant relief from nerve pain. The family felt a renewed sense of security as the patient's improved mobility allowed for safer navigation around the home.
- Following a series of appointments and personalized treatment, a senior felt more confident navigating her home environment, no longer fearing falls or sudden dizziness associated with the vascular disease.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Neurological Surgery (Neurosurgery)
Here are answers to some common questions about Neurosurgical care with Dr. Benjamin Ditty:
- What is a Neurosurgeon, and how are they different from a Neurologist?
- A neurosurgeon is a medical doctor specializing in surgery of the brain, spine, and nerves. Neurologists, on the other hand, diagnose and treat neurological conditions with medication and non-surgical therapies. While their approaches differ, neurosurgeons and neurologists often collaborate as a team to provide the best possible care.
- Does seeing a neurosurgeon always mean I will need surgery?
- Absolutely not. A neurosurgeon's role includes diagnosing conditions and determining if surgery is the best course of action. Dr. Ditty often recommends conservative treatments first, such as physical therapy or injections, and only considers surgery when necessary.
- What can I expect during my first consultation with Dr. Benjamin Ditty?
- Your first consultation with Dr. Ditty will be a thorough diagnostic process. We will review your symptoms, perform a detailed neurological exam, and carefully examine any existing imaging, like MRIs or CT scans. This comprehensive evaluation will help us determine the best path forward, whether that involves surgery or other treatments.
- Can you help with carpal tunnel syndrome?
- Dr. Ditty and our team are experts in peripheral nerve issues, including carpal tunnel syndrome. We can diagnose and treat this, often starting with conservative measures, and if needed, perform a simple outpatient surgical release to relieve pressure on the nerve.
- What is spinal stenosis, and how is it treated?
- Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to age-related arthritis, which can put pressure on nerves. Treatment options range from physical therapy and injections to surgery, such as a laminectomy, to relieve the pressure in severe cases.
- How do you treat brain tumors in older adults?
- Dr. Ditty and his team develop a highly personalized treatment plan for brain tumors in older adults, considering the tumor type and the patient's overall health. Options may include surgical removal, radiation therapy like Gamma Knife, or observation, always prioritizing maximizing quality of life.
- What is minimally invasive spine surgery?
- Minimally invasive spine surgery, performed by Dr. Ditty, is an advanced technique using smaller incisions and specialized instruments. This approach results in less muscle damage, reduced pain, and a potentially faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery, making it a beneficial option for seniors.
- What is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for?
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical therapy used to manage movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease or essential tremor, when medications are no longer adequately controlling symptoms. It works by implanting a small device that sends electrical signals to specific areas of the brain, similar to a pacemaker, to help reduce tremors and other motor problems.
6101 Pine Ridge Rd
Naples FL 34119
Phone: (239) 649-1662
Dr. Benjamin Ditty, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1215163795
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Neurosurgeries like Dr. Benjamin Ditty are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.