Research

Neurosurgery Research

Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery is one of the top programs of its kind in the country. This reputation can be attributed to extraordinary productivity, first-rate scientific investigations and exceptional patient outcomes.

Children's scientists are investigating the behavior of tumor cells in search of effective therapies for medulloblastoma and gliomas, among the most common and deadliest childhood cancers, as well as other tumors of the central nervous system. Their far-reaching research also is exploring treatments for spasticity, cerebral palsy, movement disorders, craniofacial anomalies, head injuries and the surgical and pharmacological treatment of epilepsy.

As the groundbreaking technology in the field of minimally invasive procedures continues to improve, so do the benefits for pediatric patients. This type of surgery translates into less time under anesthesia and reduced risk of infection. It also means less blood loss, fewer complications and negligible disfigurement. A faster recovery time means that a child misses fewer days of school and can go back to playing with friends more quickly.