Faculty present at the Southern Neurosurgical Society annual meeting

Two USA Health neurosurgeons, Richard Menger, M.D., M.P.A., and Jai Thakur, M.D., both assistant professors of neurosurgery at the Whiddon College of Medicine, were recently invited to present at the 73rd Southern Neurosurgical Society Annual Meeting.  

Menger, chief of complex spine surgery at USA Health and director of the USA Health Spine Institute, presented his published research regarding complications in certain pediatric patients following S2-alar-iliac fusion to the pelvis. The research concluded that fixating the spine to the pelvis resulted in significant correction to the spinal deformity without impacting the ability to walk. This was the first paper investigating the impact of this specific technique in children who could walk without assistance.  

Thakur, director of minimally invasive cranial and skull-base neurosurgery at USA Health, presented his research on the importance of transcranial endoscopy during skull-base surgeries to reduce blind spots. This was a novel reflection of his research which makes the visualization of blind spots in skull base surgery possible by using intraoperative angled endoscopy.  

“Discussing the new innovations to skull-base surgery is a great opportunity to not only raise awareness about this approach, but also promote it for its safety, reducing complications and re-operations.” Thakur said.  

Learn more about the Southern Neurosurgical Society.