Division of Neurological Surgery
Saint Louis University School of Medicine’s Division of Neurological Surgery is devoted to the advancement of neurosurgical care, research and education. Pioneering work and innovation on neurosurgical technologies and operative techniques have been a hallmark of the division team.
Expert Care for Brain and Spine Conditions
The Division of Neurological Surgery provides industry-leading care across the full spectrum of neurosurgical subspecialties. Fostering a culture of innovation, the team has partnered with other departments to develop advanced multidisciplinary programs, including:
- Fetal Care Program
- Surgical Epilepsy Program
- Craniofacial Program
- Movement Disorders Program
- Radiosurgery Program
- Combined Open and Endovascular Program
- Pediatric and Adult Oncology Programs
- Combined Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Spine Programs
Many faculty have subspecialty training in their area of expertise, including the spine, oncology, cerebrovascular and skull base, endovascular, critical care, epilepsy and pediatrics. They offer comprehensive training to medical students and residents.
Neurological Surgery Research
The division conducts research that advances minimally invasive surgical techniques and investigates the underlying causes of neurological disease. Faculty contribute to local and national clinical trials through basic science research, clinical research and ongoing research into technologies that improve patient care.
Researchers are aided by SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital’s advanced neuroimaging techniques, including magnetoencephalography (MEG) and functional MRI.
Birthplace of Modern Stereotactic Navigation
The Division of Neurological Surgery is known worldwide as the birthplace of modern stereotactic navigation. Longtime faculty member Richard Bucholz, M.D., partnered with Medtronic to develop the first StealthStation™ machine, which revolutionized the field by offering stereotactic navigation for surgery involving intracranial lesions. The system improves accuracy, operative time and patient outcomes. Technology derived from Bucholz’s patents has led to devices that are present in almost every modern neurosurgical suite worldwide.
The division is driven by the same trailblazing spirit, which continues to guide the team’s treatment of every patient.