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News and Highlights

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." [more]

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. [more]

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. [more]

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. [more]

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. [more]

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. [more]

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. [more]

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.

New Honors, Awards and Promotions Announced