Pediatric Neurosurgery

Our Approach to Care

Comprehensive Pediatric Neurosurgery Care  

NewYork-Presbyterian’s pediatric neurosurgeons know that caring for children requires an approach that includes an understanding of the child’s perspective and the emotional toll taken on families with a sick child. These compassionate physicians consider the family’s needs throughout the care of their young patients, from diagnosis and treatment to recovery and follow-up into adulthood.

The neurosurgery team uses the latest imaging tests and other diagnostic services available to pinpoint the cause of a child’s symptoms. For some children, the diagnosis is made based on a genetic test. Our children’s hospitals are home to internationally known medical genetics departments staffed by experts who can explain a child's genetic test results and what they mean for their care and for their family.

Depending on the diagnosis, care could include one or more of the following surgical approaches:

• Surgery with precision: Our neurosurgeons are highly experienced in advanced surgical techniques to treat brain and spinal tumors, craniofacial deformities, spasticity, epilepsy, tuberous sclerosis, and complex spinal deformities. We use the latest mapping and monitoring techniques to plan surgery to ensure the best outcomes while minimizing risk.
• Minimally invasive surgery: Our neurosurgeons are able to utilize minimally invasive approaches to surgery in most of our pediatric patients, resulting in smaller incisions, less pain after surgery, less scarring, and a faster recovery. Our neurosurgeons are exceptionally skilled at endoscopic procedures for the treatment of hydrocephalus, intracranial cysts, certain brain tumors, and some spinal disorders.
• Critical care for children: Our Pediatric Neuro ICUs provide specialized care around the clock to infants, children, and adolescents with life-threatening neurological illnesses and injuries, as well as those recovering from major or high-risk neurological surgery.