News and Highlights
Keith Desserich of The Cure Starts Now presents Dr. Mark Souweidane with a check to support his ground-breaking clinical trial for DIPG. Dr. Mark Souweidane has been given a gift of $97,000 from The Cure Starts Now to support his research into children's brain tumors. Dr. Souweidane recently received approval to begin an innovative new trial testing Convection Enhanced Delivery (CED) to deliver a radioactive agent directly to the site of the pontine glioma, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Read more about the trial.
Drs. Schwartz and Anand Publish New Book on Pituitary Surgery
Dr. Theodore H. Schwartz and Dr. Vijay K. Anand have just released their newest book, Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery, a comprehensive guide to clinical management of pituitary tumors. Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery is the first major reference work on pituitary surgery in nearly ten years, and is a must-have guide for all physicians who are involved in the care of patients with pituitary tumors, particularly those patients who may need surgery. The volume includes contributions from a variety of distinguished experts and features decision-making algorithms on managing hormone-producing and non-hormone-producing tumors. The book covers surgical techniques, patient selection, and endocrine and neuro-ophthalmologic considerations, and also includes an in-depth discussion of the merits of endoscopic versus microscopic tumor resection. It is available from the publisher, Thieme, as well as other online booksellers.
Brain Tumor Center Announces 2012 "Brain Tumor Biotech Summit"
The Brain Tumor Center at the Weill Cornell Brain and Spine Center will host an innovative one-day event featuring interactive lectures and networking dedicated to emerging targets, therapeutics, and strategies against brain cancer. The event will include physicians, surgeons, oncologists, scientists, analysts, venture capitalists, hedge fund managers, and top leaders in pharmaceutical and biotech industries. For registration information and to be put on our mailing list for updates, please email Amy Sabek at AMS2008@nyp.org or Dr. John Boockvar at jab2029@nyp.org.
Six Weill Cornell Neurosurgeons Named as U.S. News Top Doctors
U.S. News and World Report magazine has become well known for its annual listings of Top Hospitals, Top Health Plans, and Top Nursing Homes. New this year, its list of Top Doctors confers the “Top” distinction on the best physicians and surgeons in the country, as nominated by their peers and selected by U.S. News and Castle Connelly Medical. We’re proud to have six of our neurosurgeons on this first edition of the list: Dr. Philip E. Stieg, Dr. John Boockvar, Dr. Roger Härtl, Dr. Michael Kaplitt, Dr. Theodore Schwartz, and Dr. Mark Souweidane. The distinction of being a Top Doctor adds to the prestige of being associated with NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, a veteran of the Top Hospitals list. The 2011-2012 list shows NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital #4 in the nation for neurological surgery -- and #1 overall in New York.
Neuroscience Physician Assistants Awarded for Making Patients' Hospital Stay Safer
On September 21, 2011, the Clinical Documentation and Coding Services Department presented the 2011 Clinical Documentation Program Award to Suzan Wollard, Chief Physician Assistant for the Department of Neurological Surgery, and Rich Cassa, Senior Physician Assistant for the Department of Neurology, who accepted the awards on behalf of all of the Neuroscience Physician Assistants who are making a difference in patients' hospital stay. Outstanding documentation is essential in communicating with the team of medical providers caring for each of our patients. We are proud of this award, which represents a safer and better hospital experience for our patients.
Documentation Specialist Virginia Bjornton presents the 2011 Clinical Documentation Program Award to Suzan Wollard, Chief Physician Assistant for the Department of Neurological Surgery, and Rich Cassa, Senior Physician Assistant for the Department of Neurology.
"Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Brain Tumors" by Dr. Susan Pannullo Now Available for Download
September 26, 2011
Dr. Susan Pannullo, Director of Neuro-Oncology in the Department of Neurological Surgery, is the lead author of a chapter in a book released today, "Diagnostic Techniques and Surgical Management of Brain Tumors." Dr. Pannullo’s chapter, "Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Brain Tumors" is available as a free downloadable PDF. Get the chapter here.
Drs. Patsalides and Dinkin Open Clinical Trial for IIH
September 21, 2011
Dr. Athos Patsalides and Dr. Mark Dinkin are now enrolling patients in a new FDA-approved clinical trial evaluating venus sinus stenting in patients with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH, also known as pseudotumor cerebri). Many patients with IIH have not responded to existing medical and surgical treatments, which have also produced unwanted side effects. Get details of the clinical trial by downloading the PDF here.
Dr. Mark Souweidane Accepts $100,000 Research Award From Cristian Rivera Foundation
September 13, 2011
Dr. Mark Souweidane thanks the donors at the Cristian Rivera Foundation gala for their gift of $100,000 to support his research. Presenting the check is Ralph Mercado III, a member of the committee of the Cristian Rivera Foundation.
At a star-studded gala at the Copacabana in New York last night, Mark M. Souweidane, MD, received a $100,000 gift to support his search for a cure for Diffuse Infiltrative Pontine Glioma (DIPG). The award, from the Cristian Rivera Foundation, was made in honor of Cristian Rivera, who lost his battle with DIPG in 2009 at the age of 6. Dr. Souweidane, who treated Cristian, is heading up a new initiative to find new therapies and solutions for DIPG, an inoperable, incurable brain stem tumor that claims 200 lives a year – mostly children under age 10.
The gala was the third annual event for the Foundation, which was created by John "Gungie" Rivera, Cristian's father. Dr. Souweidane and his research are the sole beneficiaries of the Foundation's fund-raising efforts, which are supported by an impressive list of committee members, including Saturday Night Live star Kenan Thompson, award-winning actor Luis Guzman, former Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer, celebrity chef Alex Garcia, legendary producer John "Jellybean" Benitez, and former New York Knicks all-star Anthony Mason.
Read more about the Childhood Brain Tumor Project of the Pediatric Brain and Spine Center.
Dr. Boockvar Talks About Brain Cancer with Dr. Oz
September 21, 2011
Dr. John Boockvar appeared on a segment of The Dr. Oz Show to talk about the leading risk factors for brain cancer, and ways to reduce those risks. In this video clip, Dr. Boockvar reassures a headache sufferer with the news that, while headaches are common, brain tumors are very rare. Watch the video to hear Dr. Boockvar on CT scans, cell phones, and how he diagnoses brain tumors.
Drs. Schwartz and Dr. Wernicke Featured in News Video
September 22, 2011
Dr. Theodore Schwartz from Neurological Surgery and Dr. A. Gabriella Wernicke from the Department of Radiation Oncology were featured in a video segment on WPTV about their groundbreaking procedure using radiation seeds to target a brain tumor. In this patient, breast cancer had metastasized to her brain; traditionally, surgery to remove the tumor would have been followed by a healing period before radiation could begin. Too often that period allows cancer cells to take root again. By implanting the Cesium-131 seeds directly into the surgical site, Drs. Schwartz and Dr. Wernicke allowed radiation therapy to begin quickly - and they spared the patient a second procedure. See related news item for more information.
Brain Power: Dr. Schwartz Featured in Crain's
Dr. Theodore Schwartz's pioneering work with three-dimensional endoscopic surgery was featured in the August 22-28, 2011, edition of Crain's New York. These techniques are being used in the operating room for Dr. Schwartz's work with brain tumors and epilepsy; in the laboratory he is testing these minimally invasive approaches on animals to see seizures occurring in real time, with the goal of being able to predict - and stop - seizure in humans. See the article
Dr. Boockvar Gets FDA/IRB Approval for New Study for Patients With Vestibular Schwannoma
Dr. John Boockvar will lead a new trial using intraarterial chemotherapy for vestibular schwannoma (VS). A recent study showed that IV Bevacizumab (trade name Avastin) treatment was followed by clinically meaningful hearing improvement, tumor-volume reduction, or both in some, but not all, patients with vestibular schwannoma who were at risk for complete hearing loss or brain-stem compression from growing VS. Because of these promising results in preliminary studies of IV Bevacizumab and because of our significant experience with the safety of intraarterial chemotherapy, this novel study will offer a safe treatment for patients with VS. This will be the only center in the United States where this trial is being offered. If you would like more information on the trial please call 212-746-1996 or email jab2029@med.cornell.edu or taw2015@med.cornell.edu.
Dr. Theodore Schwartz Publishes Results of Promising Epilepsy Research
Nearly a third of all epilepsy patients do not respond to conventional drug treatments, and only a fraction of those are candidates for surgical solutions. New research published in the journal Neurotherapeutics holds promise for an alternative approach. Dr. Theodore Schwartz of the Neurosurgery Department collaborated with Dr. Stewart Anderson from the Department of Psychiatry in a newly released study that shows how brain cell transplants stopped seizures in a rat model. See the abstract and download the paper.
Drs. Härtl and Bonassar Publish Results of "Living" Spinal Disc Implants
Dr. Roger Härtl, Director of Spinal Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Dr. Larry Bonassar, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Cornell University, report success in their laboratory tests of living, tissue-engineered replacement discs for patients with degenerative disc disease. The new artificial discs are designed to integrate into the spine and improve over time as they generate new growth. The researchers hope this next generation of disc implants will replace today's artificial implants, which can degenerate in the body. The promising results were published in the current issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and were reported in the Cornell University Chronicle as well as in Discovery News.
Lauren Rotman Awarded 2011 American Brain Tumor Association Medical Student Summer Fellowship
Lauren Rotman, a Cornell alumna and first-year medical student at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, was awarded a prestigious American Brain Tumor Association Medical Student Summer Fellowship, with Dr. Mark Souweidane’s mentorship. The Summer Fellowship is to train aspiring medical students to be next-generation physicians conducting brain cancer research in addition to medical service. Lauren is pursuing a novel multi-drug targeted approach to treating diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) with Drs. Mark Souweidane and Zhiping Zhou.
Dr. Boockvar Appointed to Journal of Neuro-oncology Editorial Board, Reappointed to AANS/CNS Tumor Section
Dr. John A. Boockvar, Co-Director of the Brain and Spinal Tumor Program at Weill Cornell Medical College, was recently selected for a second term to the Executive Committee for the AANS/CNS Tumor Section. He will serve another three-year term and oversee Research and Funding. The Executive Committee includes national and international leaders in the field of surgical and medical neuro-oncology. In addition, as of July 1, 2011, Dr. Boockvar became an Editorial Board member of the Journal of Neuro-oncology, the official journal of the Tumor Section of the AANS/CNS.
Three "All-Star" Awards Presented at Second Annual Lids4Kids Event
The Weill Cornell Pediatric Brain and Spine Center hosted the second annual Lids4Kids event on June 18, 2011. The gathering is a celebration of the return to health of pediatric neurosurgery patients as well as an opportunity to spread awareness of head protection. Dr. Mark Souweidane and Dr. Jeffrey Greenfield, pediatric neurosurgeons, traded scrubs for baseball caps as Team Souweidane faced off against Team Greenfield in a softball game on the Great Lawn in Central Park. Twelve raffle winners took home new bicycle helmets, and three All-Star Awards were presented: to Kelly DeMarrais and Connor Ventura, young athletes who shared their Chiari surgery stories as a way of inspiring others, and Patti Ventura, whose tireless fund-raising and awareness campaigns have been an enormous benefit to patients and families. See more photos on our Facebook page.
Dr. Jeffrey Greenfield (left) and Dr. Mark Souweidane (right) joined award winners Kelly DeMarrais, Patti Ventura, and Connor Ventura at Lids4Kids 2011.
Dr. Pannullo Leads Brain Tumor Walk
On June 18, 2011, Dr. Susan Pannullo led the first-ever 5K New York Brain Tumor Walk on Governor's Island, which raised nearly $300,000 for brain tumor research. Dr. Pannullo, Director of Neuro-Oncology and Neurosurgical Radiosurgery at the Weill Cornell Brain and Spine Center and also Research Chair for the National Brain Tumor Society, led Team Cornell in the New York event, one of nine events going on nationwide in support of brain tumor research and quality-of-life issues for those affected. See photos from the walk.
Susan C. Pannullo, MD, Receives Spirit Award for Brain Tumor Work
On May 28, 2011, Dr. Susan C. Pannullo, Director of Neuro-Oncology and Neurosurgical Radiosurgery at The Weill Cornell Brain and Spine Center and a member of the board of the National Brain Tumor Society, was honored with a Spirit Award from the New York Mets as a part of Brain Tumor Awareness Night. Dr. Pannullo is chairing the New York event of the first-ever NBTS Brain Tumor Walk, to be held on Governors Island on Saturday, June 18, to raise awareness and funds for brain tumor research. More information about the walk.
Dr. Susan C. Pannullo (third from right) and key committee chairs for the first NBTS Brain Tumor Walk receive their Spirit Awards on the field at Citi Field.
Neurology and Neurosurgery Honors 7 for Reaching 25-Year Mark
On March 15, 2011, the Neurosurgery and Neurology departments hosted a celebration honoring our peers for serving more than 25 years in Neuroscience.
From left to right: Wendy Friedmann, Staff Radiology Technologist; Ruth Shariff, Registered Nurse; Dorothy Phinn, Registered Nurse; Sybil Marshall, Nursing Assistant; and Marie Dominique, Registered Nurse. Not present: Randy Capella, Supervisor of Interventional Neuroradiology, and Lisa Holtzman, Registered Nurse.
Dr. Susan C. Pannullo Chairs Inaugural New York Brain Tumor Walk to Raise $1 Million
On Saturday, June 18, 2011, National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS) board member Dr. Susan C. Pannullo, Director of Neuro-Oncology and Neurosurgical Radiosurgery at The Weill Cornell Brain and Spine Center, will steer the first New York-based Brain Tumor Walk to be held on Governors Island. The all-ages 5K event is one of nine walks that will take place in other US cities during the year to raise awareness and funds for brain tumor research. Team Cornell will be led by volunteers from The Brain and Spine Center who will walk in support of the $1 million fundraising goal for innovative research and services to help the more than 210,000 adults and children diagnosed with brain tumors each year in the US. Brain tumors are the leading cause of solid tumor cancer death in children under 20 years of age and the second leading cause of cancer death in young adults 20- to 39-years of age.
Dr. Pannullo is also Research Chair for the NBTS, a nonprofit organization that funds strategic research and delivers support services to address quality-of-life issues for those affected by brain tumors. Over the past 3 years, the NBTS has funded more than $10 million in brain cancer research.
The New York Brain Tumor Walk begins at 7 AM. . Programs and activities run from 8:30am to noon. Register at www.BrainTumorWalk.org/NewYork. For more information contact NYWalk@braintumor.org or call toll-free 866.455.3214.
Intracavitary brachytherapy is a minimally invasive technique used to line a surgical cavity with radioactive seeds - cancer-fighting radioisotopes encased in capsules the size of a rice grain - after removal of malignant disease. This procedure delivers high-dose radiation to the tumor cavity margin to prevent recurrence of microscopic disease in patients with malignant brain tumors. Dr. Schwartz and Dr. A. Gabriella Wernicke from the Department of Radiation Oncology, were the first to perform the 15-minute procedure with cesium-131 - a radioactive isotope with a shorter half-life and higher energy level than other agents in use, assuring rapid and safe delivery. The radioactive isotopes release a radiation dose tailored to individual patient needs over a period of days. For patients with malignant brain tumors, the use of cesium-131 seeds can eliminate the need for additional external radiation therapy. In some patients, implantation of brachytherapy may offer hope for additional therapy to maintain their quality of life when other treatments have failed. This medical achievement was made possible by a collaborative effort between Dr. Schwartz's team, Dr. Wernicke's department, of Radiation Oncology and IsoRay Medical™, the company that makes the radioactive seeds. For more information, please call the office of Dr. Schwartz at 212-746-5620.
Dr. Mark Souweidane Chosen in Worldwide Search to Perform Pioneering Procedure on Pediatric Patient
On Thursday January, 12, 2011 Dr. Mark Souweidane performed a pioneering surgical procedure on a 6-year-old child with a late-stage malignant brain stem tumor, a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). Using a stereotactically guided micro-catheter, Dr. Souweidane directly infused the tumor with a virus that kills the virus. This approach, known as virotherapy, uses tumor killing viruses to replicate selectively in tumor cells, leaving normal cells untouched. Just days after the procedure, the child appears to be doing well and without surgical complications. It is hoped that this innovative approach will become an alternative treatment for other children with DIPG or other incurable brain tumors. The patient's parents selected Dr. Souweidane after exhaustive efforts to find the most innovative and promising therapy for their child all over the U.S. and Europe. Dr. Souweidane has spent over ten years conducting preclinical research on the feasibility of direct infusion for brain tumors in children. He is also the principal investigator of a Phase I clinical study for children with DIPG that should soon be open for patient enrollment.
Dr. Roger Härtl Shares a $100,000 NFL Research Grant for Pioneering Work on Artificial Disc
Dr. Roger Härtl, Director of Spinal Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Dr. Larry Bonassar, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Cornell University, were awarded a $100,000 NFL Charities research grant honoring their collaborative groundbreaking work on tissue engineering for spinal disc degeneration. Dr. Bonassar's laboratory engineers intevertebral discs from sheep cells that grow, mature, and multiply on a natural mold to re-create a fully functional, implantable disc. Dr. Härtl tests the discs by developing techniques for implanting them into the spines of animals with disc degeneration. Promising earlier work showed that engineered discs planted into healthy animals were able to maintain the appropriate pressure and support after 1 year. It is hoped that human trials can begin in approximately 5 years.
Dr. Theodore H. Schwartz Awarded $650,000 Wellcome Trust Grant for Collaborative Epilepsy Research
Dr. Theodore H. Schwartz, Director of Epilepsy Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, has been awarded a $650,000 grant from the Wellcome Trust, a British-based global charitable foundation committed to public health initiatives. The grant supports a collaborative research effort on the effect of epilepsy on blood flow and oxygenation in the brain. The project brings together the recognized neuroimaging and electrophysiology capabilities of Dr. Jason Berwick and his laboratory at the University of Sheffield in the UK with Dr. Schwartz's expertise in the study of brain function in epilepsy models. The 3-year project targets the enhanced use of neuroimaging technology for the presurgical localization of epileptic foci, which would improve surgical outcomes in epilepsy patients.
Pediatric Neurosurgery's First Annual "Lids for Kids" Softball Game
On June 26, 2010, the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Weill Cornell Medical College and The Phyllis and David Komansky Center for Children's Health at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, hosted its first annual "Lids for Kids" softball game at Battery Park City Field. The goal of the event was to celebrate our young patients and to educate parents and caregivers about pediatric head injury prevention.
See the live segment on NY1
Dr. Roger Härtl and Dr. Larry Bonassar Receive Hansjörg Wyss Award
Dr. Roger Härtl, Chief of Spinal Surgery and Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Dr. Larry Bonassar, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Cornell University, received the prestigious Hansjörg Wyss Research Award from AOSpine and the Hansjörg Wyss Foundation for their research project on biological disc replacement. They will be sharing the Award's $300,000 grant to support scientists and clinicians in the field of fundamental, translational, or clinical spine research with colleagues Dr. Harry Gebhard and Robby Bowles, of Cornell University's Neurosurgery and Biomedical Engineering team.
HEAD INJURIES - Taking Them Seriously
Dr. Philip Stieg, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College and Neurosurgeon-in-Chief at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital ,reports on the serious repercussions of head injuries and provides guidelines in the Spring/Summer 2010 Issue of Health News: The Newsletter of The Executive Registry.
Read the full story here.
Pannullo Named to Women's Leadership Program
Associate professor of clinical neurological surgery Susan Pannullo '83, MD '87, has been selected for the Hedwig van Ameringen Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine Program for Women. Held at Drexel University, it is the nation's only program dedicated to preparing senior women for leadership positions at academic health centers. The 2010-11 class comprises fifty-four fellows from the U.S. and Canada.
Read the full story here.
Grant Award for Pediatric Brain Tumor Research
Dr. Mark Souweidane was recently awarded a $91,740 grant from the Cure Starts Now Foundation to support the collaborative research between Weill Medical College of Cornell University and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Hospital with a novel Phase I study in children with Diffuse Pontine Glioma (DIPG).
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Patient Receives World's 1st Selective Intraarterial Delivery of Chemotherapies Directly into a Brain Stem Tumor
Neurosurgeons from NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center performed the world's first intraarterial cerebral infusion directly into a patient's brain stem tumor.
Read More
Basic Science Award for Spinal Research
Dr. Harry Gebhard graduated from his AOSpine North America Fellowship Program with the distinguished Basic Science Research Award 2010, having worked with bioengineered intervertebral discs (IVD). The committee recognized his contributions to a translational and collaborative research project between Dr. Härtl's team at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College
Read More.
The Department of Neurological Surgery thanks Joan and Sanford I. Weill for their support of a new, state-of-the-art interventional neuroradiology suite. This new premier facility has enhanced the Department of Neurosurgery's delivery of advanced life-saving treatments for a variety of neurological conditions, from stroke to malignant brain tumors.
Grant Award for Pediatric Brain Tumor Research
Dr. Mark Souweidane was recently awarded a $91,740 grant from the Cure Starts Now Foundation to support the collaborative research between Weill Medical College of Cornell University and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Hospital with a novel Phase I study in children with Diffuse Pontine Glioma (DIPG). This trial will be utilizing a novel local delivery system called convection enhanced delivery (CED) to administer radio immunotherapy to children with an otherwise incurable tumor. For more information, including how to volunteer or participate in the study, please visit The Cure Starts Now Foundation website or contact Dr. Souweidane's office at 212-746-2363.
The Spine Center Welcomes Dr. Elowitz
The Department of Neurological Surgery welcomes Dr. Eric H. Elowitz, a specialist in minimally invasive surgical treatment of degenerative spinal disease, including herniated cervical and lumbar discs and spinal stenosis. Previously, he served as Co-Director of the Minimally Invasive Spine Center at Roosevelt Hospital and has presented many scientific papers at national neurosurgery meetings. Working at The Spine Center, he brings outstanding clinical expertise and is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art patient care in a personalized environment. Dr. Elowitz will be listed on our Minimally Invasive and Spine Center surgical services pages soon.
The procedure avoids all the inherent risks of implanted shunt devices including infection, breakage, bowel perforation, and shunt migration.
[Read More]
Patient Receives World's 1st Selective Intraarterial Delivery of Chemotherapies Directly into a Brain Stem Tumor
NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Technique Opens Blood-Brain Barrier to Deliver High Dose Chemotherapy to Brain Stem Tumors
May Offer Treatment to Children with Incurable Brain Tumors
[Read More]
CNN Interview Addresses NFL Study on Football & Dementia
Brain injury acquired during sports, such as football and boxing, has long been an area of concern, not only for doctors, but for the parents of children who participate in competitive sports. In response to a recent NFL study linking football and dementia, an interview appeared on CNN's Lou Dobbs show, including Chairman Dr. Philip E. Stieg, retired football player, Harry Carson, and a New York Times sports writer. Medical and ethical issues were explored.
[Click here for the CNN interview.]
Do cell phones cause brain tumors?
Dr. Philip E. Stieg, Chairman of the Department of Neurological Surgery, addressed the question, "Do cell phones cause brain tumors?" in a Fox News interview with Bill Hemmer. Topics covered included types of radiation, use by adults versus children, important journal studies, and the expansion of cell phones in the United States and Europe. Dr. Stieg underscored the fact that brain tumor rates have remained relatively stable since the exponential expansion of cell phones over recent years.
[ Click here for the Fox News interview.]
Celebrating The Spine Center
On October 1, 2009, the Department of Neurosurgery held a party in the Griffis Faculty Club at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center to celebrate The Spine Center. The party was attended by The Spine Center staff, friends, fellows and colleagues.
[Article & Photos]
CNN Interview Addresses NFL Study on Football & Dementia
Brain injury acquired during sports, such as football and boxing, has long been an area of concern, not only for doctors, but for the parents of children who participate in competitive sports. In response to a recent NFL study linking football and dementia, an interview appeared on CNN's Lou Dobbs show, including Chairman Dr. Philip E. Stieg, retired football player, Harry Carson, and a New York Times sports writer. Medical and ethical issues were explored.
[Click here for the CNN interview.]
Patient Satisfaction is Up: Platinum Standard Service Established
In 2008, department administrator Rick Paddy spearheaded an innovative program to upgrade patient satisfaction. Costumer service surveys indicate satisfaction levels have indeed improved. Entering its 2nd year, the program is a collaboration between Weill Cornell's Department of Neurosurgery and the Sloan Program in Health Administration on Cornell's Ithaca campus. Developments include a customer service manual for the department's support staff; courtesy features such as games, crossword puzzles, and Sudoku; and a pager that allows patients the freedom to step away from an unexpected lengthy stay in the waiting room.
[Read More]
New Faculty Welcome Party a Success
On September 23, 2009, the Department of Neurosurgery officially welcomed two new faculty members. Guests included members from the medical community at large as well as from departments within NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Both new faculty are already familiar faces in the department and bring outstanding expertise to the department that is expanding clinical coverage in pediatric neurosurgery and endovascular treatment of vascular diseases of the brain. Dr. Athos D. Patsalides had trained in the department, and Dr. Jeffrey P. Greenfield formerly served as a Chief Resident (click for bios).
Justin's Journey: A Home Run
All the bases were covered during a 2-part operation involving four neurosurgeons in the Department of Neurological Surgery. Drs. Souweidane, Greenfield, Schwartz and Riina combined efforts to ensure a healthy home run for Justin. Justin is 13-years old and has faced many medical challenges throughout his childhood. Dr. Souweidane operated on him when a blood vessel burst inside his brain-caused by an AVM (arteriovenous malformation). Later, a new complication developed --epileptic seizures. It came to a point where a very complicated 2-part operation was determined as the best treatment, and this would include a hemispherectomy-- removal of one side of the brain. The operation highlighted the multifaceted neurosurgical skills within the department. One of the perks along Justin's journey was when Brian Cashman-- having heard that Justin loved the Yankees-- hosted him for a game. "This is a lot better than watching the game on TV," said Justin.
[ Click here for the video or Read the story here ]
On the Road Again: Another Tanzania Humanitarian Mission & BLOG!!
Join the Blog/Stories From the Field - click here.
Dr. Hartl and his team of neurosurgeons and researchers are carrying out another exciting humanitarian mission to Africa. The program has the potential to greatly upgrade the way developing countries deliver health care. Working through Madaktari Africa Dr. Hartl explains, "We are doing hands-on training of doctors in Eastern Africa, empowering them with a high level of expertise in neurosurgical procedures."
Read more]
Chairman Interviewed (WCBS) on the Prevention & Treatment of Stroke
Chairman, Dr. Philip E. Stieg, treated Rosemary McKeon for stroke. Rosemary's mother and sister suffered from strokes as well. Rosemary was experiencing a few of the hallmark symptoms-couldn't understand words, and even numbers, and some clumsiness in hand dexterity. Dr. Stieg performed surgery on Rosemary that has allowed her to regain an active life. She has returned to work and rides her bike every day and serves as a spokesperson for helping people recognize the symptoms of a stroke, and for promoting a healthy lifestyle that can help prevent a stroke. She and Dr. Stieg were interviewed by Dr. Max Gomez, WCBS, providing valuable information on what you need to know about preventing and treating a stroke.
WCBS Interview &
Stroke Educational Event/Open to the Public (read more)
Pet Therapy for Pediatric Patients
Aidan, a 4-year old patient of Dr. Mark M. Souweidane's, was skeptical at first about petting Max, a highly experienced pet therapy golden retriever. No problem: Max has seen it all, from the most welcoming of patients to the most reluctant, and all ages too. He, and his niece Gracie, another beautiful golden retriever, have been put through the training ropes to make sure they can easily tolerate groups of 10, canes falling down around them, loud noises, and other hazards in this line of work.
[More]
Dr. Greenfield Joins Faculty
Jeffrey P. Greenfield, M.D., Ph.D., joins the faculty of the Department of Neurological Surgery on July 1, 2009 as an Assistant Professor in Neurological Surgery. Specializing in pediatric neurosurgery, Dr. Greenfield completed his Chief Residency in the department.
[More]
HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE ESTABLISHED:
MAKING PATIENTS FEEL WELCOME
If you look the word "hospitality" up in the dictionary, it says the friendly and generous treatment of guests. Dr. John Boockvar and the "Hospitality Committee" are ensuring that patients who come to the Department of Neurological Surgery at the NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center will receive a warm welcome. The hospitality team gathered on June 3rd for the official launch of this effort. Hospitality rounds have begun including the distribution of patient welcome packets filled with valuable information to help guide patients on their surgical journey. Packets are tailored to both in patients and out patients and include a welcome letter from the chairman, a summary of medical advancements in the department, biographies of the neurosurgeons on staff, critical phone numbers and photographs of physician extenders.
[more]
National Stroke Month a Success
The departments of Neurological Surgery and Neurology/Neurosciences joined forces to make National Stroke Month a success. During the month of May, health outreach to the community included a panel discussion with four leading experts in the fields of neurology, neurosurgery and cardiology who spoke on the causes, prevention and treatment of stroke. The event drew 100 people and a question/answer session followed the presentation. A stroke "free" screening was also held at the hospital.
[more]
The Gruson Memorial Neuro-Oncology Lectureship
Event: May 18,2009
Through the generosity of the Gruson family, and underwritten in part by Charles Schwab & Co., this year's Gruson Memorial Neuro-Oncology Lecture features Dr. Jerome B. Posner. Dr. Posner, a distinguished expert in the field of Neuro-oncology and Paraneoplastic Syndromes will speak at Grand Rounds on May 18, 2009 at 7:30am, Room F-639. Each year Dr. Susan Pannullo has spearheaded this event, recruiting outstanding leaders in their fields. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Jerome B. Posner. [More] - Lecture Topic: Glioblastomas
HELMETS A BIG PART OF SAFETY ON SLOPES
Natasha Richardson's tragic ski accident should remind everyone to strap on a helmet before setting foot on snow, industry experts said yesterday.
[Read More]
Surgery Through a Straw: Deputy Fire Chief Receives Relief for Five-Alarm Back Pain
A Deputy Fire Chief, Tom Parsons, received immediate relief for five-alarm back pain that extended down the back of his leg, calf and foot. In fact, he walked out of the hospital a couple of days after Dr. Roger Härtl came to his aid with "surgery through a straw."[more]
888-WCBACKS (888-922-2257): The Number to Call for the Best in Treatments for the Spine
The Spine Center (888-WCBACKS or 888-922-2257) offers a comprehensive approach to individual back care. The latest in minimally invasive surgical and non-surgical techniques are provided. The spine team formulates a treatment plan that may include physical therapy, medication, interventional pain management, acupuncture, movement therapies, or in some cases surgery. Dr. Roger Härtl serves as Co-Director of the Center located at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, 525 East 68th Street, Floor 16.
[PDF Brochure]
Dr. Mark Souweidane, a Hero to Children with Life-Threatening Brain and Spine Tumors
Dr. Mark Souweidane's skill in the operating room and his ability to help his young patients cope with life-altering illnesses, comes as no surprise to anyone who has worked with him or benefited from his internationally recognized expertise.
[more]
No More Falls: Novel Two-stage Minimally Invasive Operation Proves Effective to Reach the Spine Through the Nose
It was truly a team effort in the Department of Neurological Surgery, and today patient Elizabeth Barry reports, "I am walking so much better. People who know me are amazed. I have had no more dizziness and no more falls." Her 11-year old daughter, Jennifer, adds, "Since my mom came home after this surgery, I can see she is much more independent."
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Chairman, Dr. Philip E. Stieg, Hosts Patterson Celebration: Professorship Launched
On December 5th, Dr. Philip E. Stieg hosted a day and evening to celebrate the remarkable career of Dr. Russel H. Patterson and to launch the Russel and Julie Patterson Professorship in Neurological Surgery.
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One of America's Top Surgeons: Dr. Howard A. Riina
Dr. Howard A. Riina has been listed in the Guide to America's Top Surgeons (Consumers' Research Council of America). Dr. Riina is one of a small cohort of neurosurgeons who offers two approaches for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms, microneurosurgical and the less invasive endovascular approach. He also serves as the Department's Director of the Residency Training Program, one of the most rigorous in the country. The department congratulates him on this recent honor.
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New Cornell Collaboration to set "Platinum Standard" in Patient Services
Over the last eight years, the Department of Neurological Surgery has forged several research collaborations with Cornell University, Ithaca Campus. Recently, it has ventured into a new and innovative direction to improve patient service - in fact, to set the "Platinum Standard" in patient care service.
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Epilepsy Resistant to Medicine Cured by Minimal Access Surgery
McGehee Porter, who has worked at Neuberger Berman for many years, is no stranger to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
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Dr. Russel Patterson and the History of Neurological Surgery at Weill Cornell
The brightest minds in neurological surgery in New York and beyond gathered at the Rockefeller Auditorium on Friday, Dec. 5, for a special program highlighting the rich history of the field, and the groundbreaking contributions of one particular neurosurgeon.
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Spine Surgeon Brings Renewed Hope To Tanzania in Humanitarian Mission
Dr. Roger Härtl had been collaborating with colleagues in Tanzania, and traveled to East Africa in order to deliver life-saving surgical equipment worth $432,000 that was generously donated by the company Synthes Spine, as well as a drill to perform neurosurgical and spinal procedures from Anspach. The President of Tanzania thanked the United States, the companies involved, and Dr. Härtl at a celebration dinner.
[more]
Spine Surgeon Saves Flight Attendant After Three Story Fall
"Writhing in pain inside a dilapidated hospital in the Dominican Republic, Brooklyn native Jessica Mazzone didn't think she'd ever walk again..." Read the rest of this article directly on the
NY Daily News website.
Dr. Philip E. Stieg Named on "Best Doctors" List in New York Magazine
Dr. Stieg has been listed in the June 16, 2008 issue of New York Magazine as one of the "Best Doctors" in the field of neurological surgery. Physicians listed on "Best Doctors" are selected by their peers.
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Skull Base Course Attracts National & International Participants
The annual Skull Base Course in the Department of Neurosurgery, held on June 6 and 7, was a resounding success attracting participants from around the world and all regions of the Untied States.
The New York Times Magazine Highlights Department Surgeons
Drs. Howard A. Riina, Theodore H. Schwartz, and Mark Souweidane were listed on the Superdoctor's edition published in The New York Times Magazine, April 27, 2008.
Dr. Pannullo Receives the Gary Lichtenstein Humanitarian Award
Dr. Susan Pannullo, Director of The New York Brain Tumor Center in the Department of Neurosurgery, will be honored with the Gary Lichtenstein Humanitarian Award by Voices Against Brain Cancer (VABC).
Shedding Some Light on Epilepsy
Epilepsy, convulsive seizures caused by disturbed electrical rhythms in the brain, affects 1-2% of the population of the United States.
Tissue-engineered Human Intervertebral Discs for Back Pain
The second leading cause of disability in America is degenerative disc disease (DDD). An estimated 12 million people suffer with back pain from DDD, with a million of them undergoing surgery each year.
Proactive Health Show "How to Save Your Life" Airs on WNYH
Dr. Philip E. Stieg is the host of "How to Save Your Life" on WAMC Northeast Public Radio. The show will be adding a New York radio station, WNYH, 740 AM.
Trailblazing Technique in Department of Neurosurgery Cures Patient of Giant Brain Tumor
In the Department of Neurological Surgery Virgil Perryman finally found a cure for the giant tumor lodged in his brain. Dr. Theodore H. Schwartz was the turning point.
Injured Window Washer Has Operation on Spine
"Dr. Boockvar said the three-and-a-half-hour operation had stabilized Mr. Moreno's spinal column, reducing the risk of neurological injury when he begins to move or walk. Mr. Moreno had a broken lumbar vertebra..."
- Excerpt from New York Times
Breakthrough Procedure Saves Lives of Patients With Retinoblastoma
Today, there is new hope for treating retinoblastoma, a rare and often fatal eye cancer that affects children and adults, thanks to an innovative procedure using "chemosurgery" developed by Dr. Pierre Gobin and Dr. David H. Abramson.
Neil Young Recuperating Cancels Juno Awards Apperance On Advice Of Doctors
New York - April 1, 2005 - It was announced today that Neil Young will be unable to appear and perform on this year's Juno Awards, set for this Sunday, April 3rd in Winnipeg
Promising Results from First Gene Therapy Clinical Trial for Parkinson's Disease Reported in The Lancet
In what could be a breakthrough in the treatment of neurological disease, a team led by physician-scientists at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center has completed the first-ever phase 1 clinical trial using gene therapy to battle Parkinson's disease.
About The New York Brain Tumor Center
The New York Brain Tumor Center at NewYork Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical Center is one of the country's most innovative and comprehensive brain tumor specialty programs. Created in 2002, The New York Brain Tumor Center provides a truly multi-disciplinary approach to brain tumor treatment and care in a warm, compassionate environment. Hundreds of patients each year seek care at The New York Brain Tumor Center for malignant brain tumors, such as Glioblastoma Multiforme, Anaplastic Astrocytomas and Oligodendrogliomas, and Brain Metastases, as well as for benign central nervous system tumors such as Acoustic Neuromas and Meningiomas.
Dr. Andy Cohen and Don Mattingly make a winning team for sports medicine.
Cutting edge "sports neurosurgery" is able to return the pro to the game and, for the rest of us, give us back our active lives.
Skull Base Surgery Conference & Skull Base Surgery Interactive Web Site.
The first 3-day Skull Base Neurosurgical Course with 3D technology and Virtual Reality was presented last December by Philip E Stieg, PhD, MD and Antonio Bernardo, MD at Cornell University.
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