Department of Neurosurgery
R.K. Thompson Professor and Chair
Howard M. Eisenberg, MD
The Department of Neurosurgery manages patients with a large variety of neurosurgical conditions. The department places special emphasis on cerebrovascular surgery, neuro-oncology, spinal surgery, epilepsy surgery, Gamma Knife radiosurgery and pediatric neurological surgery. Active neurotrauma service at the Shock Trauma Center offers opportunities to not only participate in clinics and the operating room, but also critical care rounds dedicated to the central nervous system.
Research Interests
The Cerebrovascular/Ion Channel Physiology Laboratory is actively maintained within the department with research objectives involving cellular mechanisms regulating cerebral blood flow focusing on ion channel function in cerebral smooth muscle using the patch clamp technique. Basic science research activities are complemented by on-going clinical trials of pharmacological agents for treatment of cranial and spinal trauma, cerebral vasospasms and brain tumors.
Undergraduate Medical Program
Third or Fourth Year (Surgical Subspecialty)
During the third or fourth year, students may choose to spend two weeks on the neurosurgical service as part of the surgical subspecialty clerkship. Opportunities are provided for observing neurosurgical procedures and participating in all service activities.
Fourth Year (Sub-Internship)
A fourth-year elective is available in general neurosurgery. The student works on the neurosurgery service for three weeks and one week on the neurotrauma service. Student responsibilities are significantly enhanced in the operating room and in providing patient care. Special preceptorships in pediatric neurosurgery, neuro-oncology and neurotraumatology are also offered.
Graduate Studies
A training program in neurological surgery is available to graduates of accredited medical schools who have completed one year of general surgical residency. The five-year program based at the University of Maryland Medical System provides residents with the opportunity to develop their general neurosurgical skills while gaining valuable experience in research and subspecialty areas.