Center of Excellence

Brain & Spine Centre - Asiri Central


Center of Excellence

Brain & Spine Centre - Asiri Central


At the forefront of neurological care in Sri Lanka, the Asiri Brain & Spine Centre offers comprehensive, specialized care for a wide array of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nervous system. Conditions such as chronic headaches, back pain, neck pain, strokes, and injuries to the head and spine can be debilitating, impacting a patient’s quality of life, mental health, and overall function. Our centre brings together some of the country’s most experienced Neurosurgeons, Neurologists, Stroke Physicians, and Interventional Neuro-radiologists to provide cutting-edge, evidence-based treatments tailored to each patient’s needs.

The Central Asiri Brain and Spine Centre, which is supported by the most comprehensive diagnostic and imaging resources available, can identify advanced conditions affecting the brain, spine, nervous system, and muscles. We also have the capability of identifying rare genetic disorders such as Huntington’s disease and multiple system atrophy, multiple sclerosis, and particular motor neuron diseases.


Our Services & Treatments

  • Management of Head and Spinal injuries
  • Comprehensive Back and Neck Pain Management
  • Surgery for Disc Prolapse and Cervical Disc Replacement
  • Degenerative Spine Management
  • Correction and Fusion for Spondylolisthesis
  • Correction of scoliosis
  • Management of Trigeminal Neuralgia RF Ablation
  • Micro Vascular Decompression
  • Management of Strokes and Brain Haemorrhages
  • Comprehensive Management of
    • All Adult & Paediatric Tumours
    • Pituitary Tumours
  • Management Service of Adult and Paediatric Hydrocephalus and Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
  • Management of Cerebral Aneurysm and AVM
  • Spine Tumour Management
    • Vertebral Tumours
    • Intradural Tumours
    • Intra Medullary Tumours
  • Diagnostic Services – Department of Radiology
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  • Rehabilitation – Physiotherapy Unit
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Other Locations




Why choose the Asiri Central Brain & Spine Centre?

The Asiri Central Brain & Spine Centre (ACBSC) is the most advanced Neurosurgical Centre in Sri Lanka. It addresses all forms of brain and spine diseases and works in collaboration with a team of leading Neurologists, Neuroradiologists and Interventional Radiologists, using an array of the best neuroimaging equipment including CT, MRI scans and the most advanced Biplaner Neuroangiography. The centre is capable of diagnosing most Brain & Spine-related diseases.

ACBSC is a world class Neurosurgical facility which includes three dedicated Neurosurgical Theatres with top of the range Neurosurgery Operating Microscopes, latest Neuronavigation Platforms, and Intraoperative Monitoring Equipment. In the hands of a team of the most eminent Neurosurgeons, this allows us to offer our patients a Neurosurgical Service on par with the best in the world.

Our Neuro Intensive Care Unit has 12 separate full facility rooms, and a dedicated NICU team provides the precise care that is necessary for patients after major neurosurgery is performed. It is deemed to be the best in Sri Lanka. Our 37-bed ward complex, situated on the 10th floor of the Asiri Central Hospital, provides care that is praised by all our patients.



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Our Team



How the Asiri Central Brain & Spine Centre Operates

How our Brain and Spine Centre Operates

The Brain and Spine Centre comprises the neuro-catheterisation laboratory, the neuro-ward, ICU, and operating theatres.

The Neuro-Ward, ICU and theatre function together to provide the following services:

  • The pre-admission evaluation unit is where patients are assessed and clerked before being admitted to the wards.
  • Neuro-wards are responsible for managing the pre-operation, post-operation and rehabilitative care of all neuro-related patients. The neuro-operating theatre receives patients who have been prepared for surgery. After the surgery is performed and the patient has recovered, they are transferred to either the ICU or the ward.
  • Neuro-ICU is responsible for receiving and caring for patients from the operating theater (post-operation), and the accident and emergency department or ward. Once stable, the patients are transferred to the ward.

Information and Coordinating Centre

This is the coordinating office for the Brain & Spine Centre and is situated on the 3rd floor of Asiri Central Hospital.

The services offered through this office are,

  • Information regarding the Brain & Spine Centre and its services.
  • Information on Neurosurgeons associated with Asiri Central Hospital and how to contact them.
  • Information on the surgical procedures performed at this Centre and estimated costs of the procedures.
  • Issuing documents regarding Neurosurgical procedures and coordinating with the President’s Fund.
  • Completing documentation relating to insurance claims.
  • Coordinating the transfer of patients to and from the Brain & Spine Centre.

Coordinators: Ms. Kaushiya Ganaiah & Ms. Harshani Perera
General Line: +94 11 466 5500
Mobile: 077 397 3550 / 076 548 5229

Appointments with Dr. Sunil Perera

Consultation appointments with Dr. Sunil Perera can be obtained through a free consultation with his assistant to assess if your problem is a neurosurgical condition.

If you suffer from any of the following symptoms related to brain & spine, speak to us at the FREE consultation clinic at Asiri Central Hospital, 3rd Floor, Clinic Room.

  • Persistent headaches
  • Pain radiating down legs
  • Neck or back pain
  • Numbness or weakness in your arms and legs

The free Brain & Spine Clinic at Asiri Central Hospital
Every Monday, 8:30am to 11:30am
Call the hotline: 076 548 5229 for appointments
Email: chl.neuroscience@asiri.lk

Consult a Specialist

Booking Appointment

Holistic, Patient-Centered Care

  • Focus on physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
  • Individualized care plans tailored to your lifestyle and health goals.
  • Patient education and preventive strategies for long-term health.

At Asiri Brain & Spine Centre, we believe in treating not only the symptoms but also the patient as a whole. We understand that neurological conditions can be deeply distressing, affecting not just physical health but mental and emotional well-being. Our multidisciplinary team approach ensures that every aspect of a patient’s condition is addressed, from physical symptoms to psychological support.

We provide individualized care plans that consider each patient’s unique needs, lifestyle, and goals. Our emphasis on patient education and preventive strategies helps patients understand their conditions, make informed decisions about their treatment, and take an active role in their health journey. Our commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care is what sets us apart as a leader in neurological health in Sri Lanka.

The Asiri Brain & Spine Centre is dedicated to delivering world-class neurological care for patients with headaches, back pain, neck pain, strokes, and both head and spinal injuries. By combining cutting-edge technology, a highly skilled multidisciplinary team, and personalized treatment plans, we offer patients the best possible outcomes for even the most complex neurological conditions. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, treatment for an acute injury, or advanced stroke care, the Asiri Brain & Spine Centre is here to provide the expertise, support, and solutions you need for optimal neurological health.

Contact us today to learn how we can help improve your neurological health and quality of life.


Our Facilities

  • Dedicated Neurosurgery Ward with 40 Patient Rooms
  • Dedicated Neurosurgical ICU with 12 Separate Rooms with latest equipment
  • Dedicated Neurosurgery Theatre Complex with three separate theatres
  • Most Advanced Equipment used in Neurosurgery
  • Neurosurgery Microscopes (Zeiss)
  • Neuronavigation (Brainlab & Stealth Station)
  • Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA)
  • Intra Operative Monitoring for Cranial and Spinal Surgery including Epilepsy Surgery
  • Fully equipped Physiotherapy Centre with a Hydrotherapy Unit
  • Comprehensive Neuro Imaging Centre with MRI, CT Scan and Angiography Facilities.

The Neuro-Ward Complex


The ACBSC Ward Complex occupies the entire 10th floor of the 13-floor hospital. It comprises of 37 individual air-conditioned rooms (except for a few which are reserved for patients who prefer not to use air conditioning), and 2 luxury rooms for patients who need more comfort. Almost 50% of the rooms have a magnificent view of the Colombo Skyline and the rest have a view of the courtyard below, which houses the cafeterias and relaxing areas for patients and visitors.

Each individual room has an ICU type electrically operated bed, which can be adjusted to multiple positions. There is an over-bed panel, which has ports for oxygen, suction and air as in the ICU.

The skilled core team including the in-ward doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and ancillary staff are experienced in managing neurosurgical patients with all types of cerebral conditions such as head injuries, brain tumors, etc. and spinal conditions such as injuries, disc prolapse, tumors, etc. pre and postoperatively. All other types of neurological conditions are also managed in this ward.

There is an in-house physiotherapy program which is tailor-made for patients who cannot be transported to the Department of Physiotherapy.

Theatre Complex

The ACBSC theatre complex is the best designed ultra-modern Neurosurgery Theatre Complex in the country. It is comparable to any such complex in the world. It is a stand-alone facility with three spacious theaters catering to neurosurgery only. Approximately 1500 neurosurgical procedures are performed here annually. ACBSC being a center catering to some of the most difficult neurosurgical patients, this theatre complex is geared to perform any complex neurosurgical procedure.

We were the first in the country to acquire a Neuronavigation Platform (Medtronic Stealth Station) in 2004, followed by the latest BrainLab Neuronavigation Platform in 2016. Our intraoperative CT Scan (BrainLab-Aero), the first in the country has significantly augmented our surgical capabilities with intraoperative neuro and spinal navigation. From the time of establishing Neuronavigation in Asiri Hospitals, we have done more than 2500 Neuronavigation Guided surgical procedures in our theaters.

We have also been the first theater in the country to acquire Neuro Intraoperative Monitoring Equipment (Nihon Kohden). This has the capability to help monitor the EEG wave pattern for Epilepsy Surgery and Motor and Sensory Evoked Potential Monitoring for Brain and Spinal Surgery specially to assist in removing eloquent area lesions in the brain and removal of spinal tumors and also in surgery for complex myelo and lipo meningoceles. This has allowed extremely safe neurosurgery to be performed in this theater complex and we are proud to say that we were the first to perform “Awake Neurosurgery” and DBS insertion for Parkinson’s disease in this country. We were the first private sector hospital to perform Epilepsy Surgery in Sri Lanka and now the only hospital to continue with Epilepsy Surgery in the country.

Additionally, we have the following equipment to support our high-end neurosurgery.

  1. Neurosurgery Microscopes x 3
    • Zeiss Pentero 900
    • Moller Wedel
    • Zeiss NC 4
  2. Cavitron Ultrasound Aspirator (Integra) x 2
  3. High-Speed Neurosurgery Drill Systems x 4
  4. Stereotactic Frame
  5. Endoscope

In addition to the surgical equipment, we also have high-end anesthetic and monitoring equipment necessary for highly complex neurosurgery including Awake Neurosurgery and surgery in the Seated Position for posterior fossa lesions.

Our highly skilled assisting doctors and nurses are probably the best in the country and are capable of assisting in the most complex neurosurgical procedures. The team of Consultant Neurosurgeons and Anesthetists are the best in the country and compare to some of the best in the world.

Intensive Care Unit

ACBSC, being a center addressing the most complex neurosurgical conditions in the country, knows well the pivotal role the Neurosurgery ICU plays in a patient's recovery. Guided by the motto 'All our patients survive' the unit ensures even the most critical of patients are given the best chance of survival. We are proud of a 99% success rate.

The dedicated team includes highly skilled Doctors, Nurses, Consultant Neurosurgeons and Ancillary Staff tethered by two 'In-Charge' Consultant Anesthetists working 24/7. The perfect understanding and collaboration with which the team works together is a primary reason for the unit's success rate.

Improving the service in this unit professionally and technologically, to be abreast with the best Neuro ICUs in the world, is our commitment.

High Dependency Unit

As a value addition to the Brain and Spine Centre, Asiri Central Hospital opened its 4 Bed HDU in August 2016. This is to help critically ill Neurosurgical patients in their transition from the ICU to the neurosurgical ward. The HDU provides patients who have recovered from a critical status but not yet ready to be looked after in individual wards, without constant supervision, a pathway to be managed less intensely but closely till the doctors are ready to move them to the ward. This helps the patient to know that they are on the path to recovery and also will help financially as the cost in the HDU is much less than in the ICU. However, the patients are looked after by experienced ICU nurses and the HDU has monitoring equipment and other necessities to handle any emergency. Being situated next door to the Neuro ICU and the Neurosurgery theater is an additional advantage to manage any patient in the HDU who may need urgent care.

Cutting-Edge Diagnostic Technology

  • Accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.
  • Technology Highlights:
    • MRI, CT scans, and biplanar neuroangiography.
    • Expert radiology team ensuring precision in diagnostic imaging.

Visit Radiology

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, especially in complex neurological conditions. The Asiri Brain & Spine Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including MRI, CT scans, and biplanar neuroangiography. These technologies allow our team to capture detailed images of the brain and spine, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions such as brain tumors, stroke, and spinal cord injuries.

Our diagnostic services are complemented by an expert radiology team specializing in interpreting these complex images. Whether it’s identifying the cause of chronic headaches, assessing the extent of a spinal injury, or planning a treatment pathway for stroke recovery, our diagnostic capabilities ensure that each patient receives the most accurate and effective care possible.


About brain and spine disorders

The central nervous system of the human body is primarily composed of the brain and spinal cord. The brain, often referred to as the body's ‘command center,’ directs almost everything we do. It controls important processes like breathing, heart rate, and body temperature while also controlling our thoughts, emotions, and memories.

The spinal cord acts as a communication route between the brain and the rest of the body. It transmits messages that let us feel touch, move our muscles, and feel pain. Our bodies can adapt to changes in our surroundings due to this connection.

Disorders of the spine and the brain can impair these vital processes. Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease both have an impact on memory, cognition, movement and coordination. Paralysis or loss of feeling below the injury site are potential consequences of spinal cord injuries. Additionally, depending on where in the brain they are, diseases like stroke or brain tumors can produce a variety of symptoms.

Medical, surgical, and rehabilitative therapies are used in the treatment and management of various illnesses with the goal of restoring or improving the function of these essential organs.


Symptoms of brain and spine disorders

Neurological symptoms can vary due to the several body functions being controlled by the central nervous system.

The following are some typical neurological symptoms:

  • Pain (back/neck/head/along a nerve pathway)
  • Muscle malfunction (weakness/tremor/paralysis/clumsiness/difficulty walking/rigidity)
  • Changes in smell, taste, vision, and hearing
  • Sleep problems
  • Changes in consciousness (fainting/seizures/coma)
  • Changes in cognition (dementia/poor memory/difficulty understanding or using language)

How we treat Brain & Spine Disorders

Headache and Migraine Management

  • Diagnose and treat chronic headaches and migraines.
  • Key Features:
    • Advanced neuroimaging for root cause analysis.
    • Treatments: Medications, nerve block therapies, and lifestyle modifications.
    • Education on managing triggers and preventive care.

Headaches, ranging from minor tension headaches to severe migraines, are among the most common neurological conditions worldwide. Although they are frequently underestimated, chronic headaches can disrupt daily life and lead to mental strain, fatigue, and reduced productivity. Migraines, in particular, can be debilitating, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light, and visual disturbances.

At Asiri Brain & Spine Centre, we approach headache and migraine management with a combination of advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment. Our team first works to identify the root cause, which may involve neuroimaging to rule out structural issues like tumors or vascular problems. For chronic migraine sufferers, we offer treatments that include medications, nerve block therapies, and lifestyle modifications, aimed at reducing both the frequency and intensity of migraine episodes. We also provide preventive strategies, education on managing triggers, and supportive therapies that empower patients to manage and potentially reduce their headache symptoms over time..


Comprehensive Back Pain Management

  • Relief for back pain caused by muscle strain, herniated discs, and spinal degeneration.
  • Our Approach:
    • High-resolution imaging for accurate diagnostics.
    • Treatments: Physiotherapy, medications, nerve blocks, and minimally invasive surgeries.
    • Long-term prevention through strengthening exercises and ergonomic guidance.

Back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide and can result from a variety of issues, including muscle strain, herniated discs, arthritis, or spinal degeneration. Chronic back pain can restrict mobility, impair daily activities, and have a significant impact on quality of life. Our approach at the Asiri Brain & Spine Centre includes both non-surgical and surgical options, depending on the severity and cause of the pain.

We begin with a thorough diagnostic assessment to pinpoint the source of discomfort, utilizing high-resolution imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scans. Our treatment options include physiotherapy, medication management, nerve blocks, and, for more severe cases, minimally invasive surgeries such as spinal fusion or disc replacement. These procedures help alleviate pressure on nerves, relieve pain, and restore mobility. Our team also focuses on long-term management, working with each patient to prevent future issues through strengthening exercises and ergonomic education.


Neck Pain and Cervical Spine Treatment

  • Specialized care for neck pain caused by strain, arthritis, or cervical spondylosis.
  • What We Offer:
    • Diagnostics: Advanced MRI and CT scans.
    • Treatments: Physical therapy, pain management, and cervical disc replacement.
    • Prevention: Education on posture and ergonomic practices.

Neck pain, like back pain, can result from multiple causes, including strain, arthritis, or degenerative conditions like cervical spondylosis. Chronic neck pain can lead to complications such as headaches, shoulder pain, and even numbness or weakness in the arms and hands. Our centre’s approach involves a combination of precise diagnostic tools and a wide range of therapeutic options tailored to each patient’s specific condition.

To accurately assess the cause of neck pain, we use advanced imaging technologies like MRI and CT scans, which provide detailed views of the cervical spine. Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management techniques, or minimally invasive surgical interventions such as cervical disc replacement. We also prioritize patient education, helping individuals understand proper posture and ergonomics to prevent recurring neck issues.


Stroke Care and Rehabilitation

  • Time-critical interventions for stroke patients.
  • Services Include:
    • Emergency treatments like thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy.
    • Post-stroke rehabilitation: Physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
    • Customized recovery plans for optimal outcomes.

A stroke is a medical emergency where time is critical. The Asiri Brain & Spine Centre offers specialized, immediate care for patients experiencing a stroke. Our centre is equipped with advanced neuroimaging tools, allowing our team to assess the brain in real-time and identify the location and extent of the stroke. We utilize treatments like thrombolysis (administering clot-busting drugs) and mechanical thrombectomy (physically removing the clot) to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, minimizing brain damage.

Post-stroke rehabilitation is another cornerstone of our stroke management. After acute treatment, we develop individualized rehabilitation plans to help patients regain motor skills, speech, and cognitive abilities. Our multidisciplinary team, including physiotherapists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, works together to support each patient’s recovery and maximize their quality of life.


Head Injury Management

  • Effective treatment for concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
  • Our Approach:
    • Rapid neuroimaging for precise assessment.
    • Mild TBIs: Symptom management and activity reintegration.
    • Severe injuries: Surgical care and rehabilitation for cognitive and functional recovery.

Head injuries, whether from accidents, falls, or sports-related trauma, can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These injuries can have long-term effects on cognition, memory, and even personality. At the Asiri Brain & Spine Centre, we prioritize rapid, effective intervention to manage head injuries. Our neuroimaging capabilities allow us to assess the extent of the injury quickly, enabling us to provide timely and appropriate care.

For mild TBIs or concussions, our treatment focuses on symptom management, rest, and gradually reintroducing physical activity. For more severe injuries, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the brain or repair structural damage. We also offer rehabilitation services, including cognitive therapy, to support patients’ recovery and help them regain functional abilities.


Spinal Injury Treatment and Rehabilitation

  • Comprehensive care for spinal trauma.
  • What We Provide:
    • Diagnostics: High-resolution imaging to assess injuries.
    • Treatments: Non-invasive techniques and minimally invasive surgeries.
    • Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and mobility adaptation programs.

Spinal injuries can be life-changing, often resulting in chronic pain, paralysis, or restricted mobility. At the Asiri Brain & Spine Centre, we approach spinal injuries with the latest diagnostic and therapeutic options to offer patients the best possible outcomes. Our team uses high-resolution imaging techniques to assess the injury in detail, identifying fractures, nerve damage, and potential spinal cord involvement.

For patients with spinal injuries, our treatment options range from non-invasive approaches to advanced surgical interventions. In cases where surgery is required, we use minimally invasive techniques wherever possible, which help reduce recovery time and postoperative discomfort. Post-surgical rehabilitation, which may include physical therapy and occupational therapy, is essential in helping patients regain mobility and adapt to their condition. Our goal is to optimize function and quality of life, even in the face of severe spinal trauma.


Insights from neurology experts






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