Insights In Pediatric Neurosurgery

In this episode, hosts Dr. Heather Spader, Dr. Carolyn Quincy, and Dr. Vijay Ravindra discuss the complexities of shunt placement and management in pediatric patients. They cover critical decision-making processes for premature infants, examine optimal surgical timing, review the pros and cons of programmable versus non-programmable valves, and discuss the clinical nuances of frontal versus occipital placement. The episode concludes with a discussion on "shunt nightmares,” as they review their most challenging cases and emphasize why a shunt remains one of the most humbling and complex operations in neurosurgery.

This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman.

Join hosts Dr. Vijay Ravindra, Dr. Heather Spader, and Dr. Carolyn Quinsey for a conversation about the realities of modern pediatric neurosurgery practice. While pediatric neurosurgeons are often considered some of the last true generalists in the field, certain rare and high-stakes pathologies demand a team approach.

Through a series of hypothetical scenarios, the hosts explore the delicate balance between managing patients independently and knowing exactly when to call in backup. They break down the logistics, ethics, and ego-checks required to successfully collaborate with adult sub specialists, ensuring the best possible outcomes for children.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

Produced by Parker Chapman

In this episode, Dr. Heather Spader and Dr. Carolyn Quinsey tackle the gray areas and surgical controversies surrounding Chiari malformations. They debate everyday clinical decisions from atypical headaches to bone-only decompressions. Also, they discuss specific surgical techniques like shrinking cerebellar tonsils and selecting the best dural graft materials. Beyond the technical OR details, they share candid advice on patient selection and post-operative care. Join us for an honest, practical look at how to navigate one of pediatric neurosurgery's debated conditions. We hope you enjoy the episode! 

This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman

In this episode, Dr. Carolyn Quinsey sits down with pediatric craniofacial surgeon Dr. Thomas Willson to bust common OR myths and discuss the art of team surgery. They debate everyday surgical techniques like skin hooks, surgical markers, and Raney clips. Beyond the technical details, they share advice on insightful communications between specialities in the OR. We hope you enjoy the episode! 

This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman.

In this episode of Insights in Pediatric Neurosurgery, hosts Dr. Heather Spader (University of Virginia), Dr. Vijay Ravindra (University of Utah), and Dr. Carolyn Quinsey (University of Missouri) are excited to introduce a new monthly format focused on analyzing controversial clinical cases. 

The team reviews the case of a 14-month-old female presenting with a large arachnoid cyst in the right middle temporal fossa. Together, they debate the delicate balance between observation and intervention as well as explore what specific symptoms should trigger a trip to the operating room. We hope you enjoy the episode!

This podcast was produced by Parker Chapman.

Today we are joined by Dr. Jeff Ojemann, Chief Medical Officer and pediatric neurosurgeon at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Dr. Ojemann shares his unexpected path from the operating room to hospital leadership. He also reflects on how the skills of neurosurgery directly translate into executive leadership. He discusses the challenges of balancing clinical work with administrative responsibilities, the politicization of healthcare, and why physicians should not shy away from leadership roles.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

Produced by Parker Chapman

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Eisha Christian, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery at SickKids in Toronto, as she shares her experiences working in Ukraine before and during the ongoing war. From operating during air raids to training local surgeons in resource limited settings, Dr. Christian offers a firsthand look at the resilience of Ukrainian healthcare workers and the challenges of delivering care in a conflict zone.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Scott Wait, Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, NC. Dr. Wait shares his insights into building a hybrid “private-demic” practice, balancing adult and pediatric neurosurgery, and sustaining a busy surgical career while training future neurosurgeons. From navigating negotiations with hospitals to reflecting on what truly sustains a meaningful career, this conversation offers a practical look into the evolving landscape of pediatric neurosurgery.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

In this inspiring episode, hosts Dr. Johnston and Dr. Barkley discuss and explore the remarkable life and career of Dr. Jerry Oakes, a trailblazer in the field. Gain a unique glimpse into the world of Pediatric Neurosurgery in this episode.

Whether you're in the medical field or simply enjoy listening to the extraordinary lives of Pediatric Neurosurgeons, we hope you enjoy this episode.

In this episode, Dr. Barkley talks with Dr. Susan Durham about the gender disparities seen in Neurosurgery throughout their time working in the field. From medical school to residency, all up to their current positions. Dr. Durham is Chief of the Division of Neurosurgery and the Co-director of the Neurological Institute of the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles. She also holds the position of Director of the Neurosurgery Fellowship Program and the J. Gordon McComb Family Chair in Neurosurgery. As well as the second woman to lead an Academic Neurosurgery Program