Pediatric Neurosurgery

Pediatric brain, spine and nerve surgery

Pediatric neurosurgery requires careful planning because these conditions can affect a child's growth, movement, learning and development.

Areas of expertise include:

• Brain tumors. Our surgeons treat brain tumors, including skull base tumors, with a broad range of options such as image-guided resection, coordinating closely with neuro-oncology and radiation oncology specialists.

• Blood vessel conditions. We have deep experience treating arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), aneurysms, other vascular malformations and stroke.

• Brain and skull conditions. Our expertise includes pituitary disorders, Chiari malformation, hydrocephalus, craniofacial anomalies, craniosynostosis and head injuries.

• Spine and nerve conditions. Children get expert care for spina bifida, scoliosis, spinal abnormalities, spinal cord tumors, spine injuries and brachial plexus injuries.

• Epilepsy and movement disorders. Children receive skilled surgical care for epilepsy, cerebral palsy, spasticity, dystonia, essential tremor and juvenile Parkinson's disease.

Broad range of neurosurgery options

Our neurosurgeons create a personalized approach for each patient, determining the treatment option that will work best for your child.

Depending on your child's condition, we may recommend:

• Endoscopic procedures. These minimally invasive methods use small openings to reach certain areas of the brain or spine.

• Open surgery. These procedures remove tumors, relieve pressure or disconnect seizure-causing tissue, often using imaging and mapping for guidance.

• Implanted devices. Advanced devices help control seizures or movement symptoms.

• Laser treatment. These less invasive procedures are available for certain brain tumors or seizures, accessed through a small opening.

• Radiation therapy. Gamma Knife and CyberKnife procedures don't require an incision.

Detailed planning for delicate procedures

Before surgery, we study your child's anatomy from every angle. Our team may use specialized imaging, detailed brain maps, virtual reality and 3D models to prepare for surgery.

These tools help us plan a precise route, anticipate challenges and explain the procedure clearly. In some cases, surgeons can review updated images during surgery and adjust their approach as needed, helping them make informed adjustments during the procedure.

Care through surgery and recovery

You are part of every decision for your child's care. We explain our recommendations, what to expect and how recovery may unfold.

Your child has a team of specialists ready to offer any care they may need throughout treatment:

• Child life specialists prepare your child for procedures and help them feel comfortable.

• Pediatric critical care doctors, anesthesiologists and nurses support your child during and after surgery.

• Social workers help your family manage practical needs.

• Rehabilitation specialists support movement, communication and daily activities when recovery requires additional care.

Research that expands possibilities

We are investigating pediatric brain tumors and other neurological disorders, studying new treatments and surgical approaches for children with serious or hard-to-treat conditions. Through this research, your child may have access to clinical trials testing promising therapies that are not widely available.