University of Michigan Department of Neurosurgery

Happy GME Professionals Day!

PAIN-FREE: After enduring years of chronic lower back pain that limited his mobility, Todd Frass says he has "zero pain" thanks to an innovative spinal implant that relieved pressure and resolved instability without the need for traditional fusion surgery.

Before the procedure, Frass sought several treatment options from different specialists: steroid injections, nerve blocks, physical therapy and medications.

The mechanical implant, called the Premia Spine TOPS system, is designed to stabilize the lower spine while preserving natural range of motion following lumbar decompression surgery. The surgery was performed by Dr. Jacob Joseph, the only neurosurgeon in Michigan trained to offer it.

“The issues that were all-consuming in my daily life — my back pain, weakness, sciatica — all of them are gone," Frass said.

Click this link to learn more about the TOPS procedure: https://michmed.org/XGWJx

Dr. Jody Stern and co-authors discuss the impacts and power of grief in the latest Neurosurg Focus UMich Department of Neurosurgery

Harnessing the power of grief: a framing model and call to action In this article, the authors explore the topics of grief and loss through individual vignettes, sharing stories of grief ranging from the loss of identity, the loss of a parent or loved one, and the cultural divides that make nuanced care decisions more challenging, to working in systems that may fa...

Welcome back to alumnus Dr. Anthony Wang! Thank you for an excellent Grand Rounds presentation on "Surgical Revascularization in Cerebral Arterial Steno-occlusive Disease." We appreciate you sharing your expertise with our residents and faculty.

This past weekend, Dr. Timothy Yee served as faculty at the NREF MIS and Emerging Technology Course for Senior Residents at the BNI in Phoenix. Through case-based discussions and cadaveric labs, this impactful course covers the full spectrum of spinal approaches, incorporating the latest in robotics, navigation, and minimally invasive techniques. Thanks to Dr. Praveen Mummaneni and Dr. Juan Uribe for directing and to the AANS/NREF for supporting the training of the next generation of neurosurgeon leaders! The AANS CNS Joint Section on Tumors Neurosurgery Research and Education Foundation University of Michigan Department of Neurosurgery

Researchers from the University of Michigan Department of Mechanical Engineering and the University of Michigan Department of Neurosurgery are collaborating on a novel cartilage-cutting device that could improve spinal surgery processes for chronic lumbar and cervical conditions.

The research team was recently awarded mid-stage funding through the Michigan Translational Research and Commercialization (MTRAC) Life Sciences Innovation Hub.

Degeneration of spinal discs is a normal part of aging in all adults, though many don’t develop symptoms. However, around 5% of adults over 40 will experience pain in their neck or back related to degenerative disc disease (DDD), according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The U-M research team’s microdiscectomy device aims to bridge a gap in surgical practice by offering a new tool with advanced capabilities for soft-tissue removal in procedures to treat DDD. Albert Shih, U-M professor of mechanical engineering, C. Karl Song, U-M assistant research scientist of mechanical engineering, and Yamaan Saadeh, MD, U-M clinical assistant professor of neurosurgery, lead the project.

“Our mission is not simply to develop a new surgical device, but to translate engineering innovation into technologies that improve human health,” Song explained.

👉🔗 Learn more: https://bit.ly/4cj9zVE

Please join the University of Michigan Department of Neurosurgery as we celebrate the legacy and contributions Dr. Karin Muraszko on October 2, 2026 at Palmer Commons Forum Hall Michigan Medicine

The American Brain Tumor Association National Conference is the largest brain tumor educational meeting designed specifically for patients and caregivers to learn the latest advances in research, treatment, and care from top brain tumor experts. Join in person for a powerful, immersive community experience, or attend virtually for flexible access from anywhere!🧠🧠


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National Conference - American Brain Tumor Association Learn, engage and connect with patients and caregivers impacted by a brain tumor diagnosis at the National Conference.