1) The document provides information about New York Spine and Brain Surgery, UFPC, which is part of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Stony Brook Medicine.
2) It details the mission and services provided, including treating over 1200 surgeries and 4500 new patients annually for various neurological and spine conditions.
3) Brief biographies are given for several of the neurosurgeons on staff, highlighting their specialties, experience, and leadership roles within the department and medical center.
1. Patient and Family Guide
NEW YORK SPINE AND BRAIN SURGERY, UFPC
DEPARTMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY
STONY BROOK MEDICINE
neuro.stonybrookmedicine.edu
2. We are dedicated to providing the highest
quality of service and respect for our patients.
We believe that the patient always comes first.
We keep in close contact with referring
providers via personal and written means to
ensure that the patient’s care is of primary
concern to all participants of the care team.
We provide care for all patients regardless of
their financial status. Keeping to this high
standard has allowed our practice to achieve
excellent scores in patient satisfaction and to
provide our patients with successful outcomes
according to the most rigorous standards.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
COVER (TOP) SPINE CENTER PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS (L TO R): ROBERT GALLER, DO; JONATHAN RAANAN, MD;
FREDERICK GUTMAN, MD; DONALD MACRON; MD, RAPHAEL DAVIS, MD; MICHELLE TOMASETTI, PA; GENE KING, PA; ARTHUR ROSIELLO,
MD; (BOTTOM L TO R): DR. RAPHAEL DAVIS AT MEETING OF THE MINDS; PATIENT DONATING HER PAINTING TO DR. GUTMAN AND
DR. EGNOR; DR. HENRY WOO IN OPERATING ROOM; (LEFT PAGE) AMBULATORY CARE OFFICES IN EAST SETAUKET AND RIVERHEAD
3. The physicians, nurses,
physician assistants, and staff of the
Department of Neurological Surgery welcome you
to our ambulatory care offices located in
Stony Brook, East Setauket and Riverhead.
Patient and Family Guide
NEW YORK SPINE AND BRAIN SURGERY, UFPC
DEPARTMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY
STONY BROOK MEDICINE
4.
5. WELCOME to New York Spine and Brain Surgery, UFPC, of the Department of
Neurological Surgery, Stony Brook Medicine. Our physicians use their expertise to
treat a wide range of neurosurgical, spine, brain and cerebrovascular diseases and
disorders using medical, surgical and interventional approaches. Trained in the
management of maladies of the brain and spine, we strive for excellence when
treating our patients. We use the latest in technology and minimally invasive
techniques to provide our patients with the best possible outcomes.
The Department of Neurological Surgery is comprised of 7 Neurosurgeons,
1 Interventional Neuroradiologist and 2 non-surgical spine specialists
(Physiatrists). The physicians provide direct care to the patients, along
with a team of neurological Physician Assistants and specially trained Nurse
Practitioners. This allows for the highest quality continuity of care for our
patients. The Neurosurgical Service at Stony Brook University Hospital
(SBUH) provides in-house coverage of our patients 24 hours per day 7 days
per week. We have ambulatory care offices located in Stony Brook Technology
Park (East Setauket), Riverhead and the Cerebrovascular Center at Stony
Brook University Hospital (SBUH).
As members of the Neurosciences Institute, the Department of Neurological
Surgery physicians collaborate with outstanding specialists in Neurology,
Surgery (Neurotology), Orthopaedics, Radiation Oncology, Neuro-oncology,
Neuro-radiology, Pediatrics and Physical Therapy using an integrated team
approach to provide the most effective and least invasive treatments for our
patients. Our physicians have leadership roles in the Neurosciences Institute,
including the Comprehensive Spine Center, the Cerebrovascular and Stroke
Center, the Skull Base Surgery Center and the Neuro-oncology Center.
Our neurosurgeons perform approximately 1200 surgeries per year at SBUH, the
Spine Center of Peconic Bay Medical Center (PBMC), and Eastern Long Island
Hospital (ELIH). Drs. Fiorella and Woo, our endovascular surgeons, perform
approximately 600 diagnostic and therapeutic cerebrovascular interventions
annually using the latest technology in our state-of the art neurointerventional
suites at SBUH. The Physiatrists perform more than 1400 non-surgical spine
interventions annually at two convenient locations, the Ambulatory Surgery
Center (ASC) of Stony Brook Medicine and at PBMC. Our physicians consult with
an average of 4500 new patients per year in our ambulatory care offices. The New
York Spine and Brain Surgery, UFPC offers a unified organizational structure in
collaboration with experts at the only major academic medical center in Suffolk
County for the delivery of minimally invasive and complex procedures to achieve
the best treatment outcomes available for our patients.
New York Spine and Brain Surgery
WE TREAT PATIENTS
DIAGNOSED WITH:
• Acoustic Neuromas
• Acute stroke
• Adult scoliosis
• Arnold Chiari Deformity
• Arteriovenous
malformation (AVM)
• Back and neck pain
• Brain aneurysm
• Brain and spinal tumors
• Carotid stenosis
• Cerebral stenosis
• Cranial hemorrhages
• Craniosynostosis
• Degenerative disc
disease
• Epilepsy
• Herniated discs
• Hydrocephalus
• Intracranial
atherosclerosis
• Neurotrauma
• Pituitary tumors
• Spina bifida
• Spinal cord injuries
• Spinal instability
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Vena Galens
malformation
(LEFT, ABOVE) DR. FREDERICK GUTMAN, ELAINE SEPE, NP; AND DR. ARTHUR ROSIELLO -
INPATIENT SERVICE LEADERSHIP; (LEFT, BELOW) DRS. DAVID FIORELLA, BARRY LIEBER AND
HENRY WOO AT BRAIN ANEURYSM AWARENESS EVENT
6. I made up my mind to
“walk through” my back
obstacle and with your
wonderful expertise, I now
have my leg pain gone and
will again be able to follow
my volleyball passion. I had
100% faith in you as my
doctor and I truly was
correct in my judgment.
—G.A., PATIENT
March marked one year
since you performed surgery
on my spine. I have had a
much more enjoyable,
pain-free and active year
than I have had in the
recent past. So, I want you
to know that not a day goes
by without an expression of
gratitude from me for what
you did for me.
—A.M., PATIENT
Thank you so very much for
the excellent job you did
removing my brain tumor.
The recovery was easy and
you did a perfect job on my
hair by not shaving it too
much. Thank you again for
a job well done. You are
one of a kind!
—P.W., PATIENT
DR. RAPHAEL P. DAVIS
Chairman and Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery
Co-Director, Neurosciences Institute
Co-Director, Skull Base Surgery Center
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1990
Dr. Raphael P. Davis was trained by
Dr. Leonard Mallis, one of the “fathers”
of modern microneurosurgery. Dr. Davis
has been performing microsurgical
procedures for over 25 years. His surgical
expertise includes the treatment of
pituitary tumors and acoustic neuromas,
as well as complex spinal surgery. He has
performed over 8000 operations during
his career. Dr. Davis has held the position
of Chairman of the Department of
Neurological Surgery since 1998.
In 2008, Dr. Davis was named as
Co-Director of the Neurosciences
Institute. The development of the
Institute is a strategic initiative of Stony Brook Medicine and involves
the interdisciplinary organization of numerous Centers for the integrated
delivery of patient care and stimulation of collaborative research. In
addition, he is Co-Director of the Skull Base Surgery Center.
Dr. Davis is pursuing research in the areas of novel vaccines for the
treatment of glioblastomas, the development of an artificial disc and the
use of digital technology in the management of acoustic neuroma patients.
Dr. Davis has been named amongst the best neurosurgeons in the
New York Metropolitan region in New York Magazine’s Best Doctors
issue and Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors.
Chairman and Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery
Co-Director, Neurosciences Institute
Co-Director, Skull Base Surgery Center
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1990
Neurosurgical Residency: Mount Sinai Medical Center
Medical School: Mount Sinai Medical Center.
7. DR. MICHAEL R. EGNOR
Director, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Professor of Neurological Surgery and Pediatrics
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1996
Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery, 1997
Dr. Michael R. Egnor, Director of Pediatric
Neurosurgery, has developed a large
pediatric neurosurgery service in Suffolk
County, performing over 200 surgical
procedures annually. His practice includes
patients diagnosed with Arnold Chiari
Deformity, hydrocephalus, cranio-
synostosis, brain tumors and spina
bifida, as well as children with severe
head trauma.
Dr. Egnor has an international reputation
for research on hydrocephalus, and he is
on the Scientific Advisory Board of the
Hydrocephalus Association in the
United States. He has lectured extensively
in the Unites States and Europe, and has published his research on hydro-
cephalus in medical journals such as the Journal of Neurosurgery, Pediatrics
and Cerebrospinal Fluid Research. His professional memberships include
the American Association of Neurological Surgery, Congress of Neurological
Surgeons and American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons.
Dr. Egnor was profiled in New York Magazine’s Best Doctor’s issue in 2005,
“The Bobby Polange Story”.
Director, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Professor of Neurological Surgery and Pediatrics
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1996
Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery, 1997
Neurosurgical Residency: University of Miami
Medical School: Columbia University
I had been speaking with
my friend about her
daughter and all that she
has been going through
lately. She told me that
you came back from your
vacation to do the tumor
debulking surgery on her
daughter. It got me thinking
that all these years you
have been my son’s
neurosurgeon; I don’t think
I ever actually thanked you
for what you have done for
him, and for all the children
whose lives you save and
touch every single day. You
have given us the greatest
gift anyone ever could have,
and that is the gift of life
and the best health possible
for our beloved children.
— N. L., PARENT OF PATIENT
Now that I’m fully recovered,
I would like to thank you for
operating on me and for your
care. …After a summer of
PT, hard work and exercise,
I was able to play baseball
this past Fall. I led my team
in batting and stealing
bases. This winter I am
enrolled to wrestle. None
of this would have been
possible without you caring
for me.
—C. M., PATIENT
5
8. With enduring gratitude for
extending my “flight” –
still airborne after more
than three years, and
no turbulence. Hope to
schedule a visit soon, once
again shake your hand and
thank you for saving my life.
— P.P., PATIENT
I want to thank you and I
feel privileged to have you
as one of my doctors. When
I was told that I had a brain
aneurysm, it was very
shocking so I appreciate
your efforts in telling me
all about it and what to
expect before and after
surgery. I will never forget
this experience and the
positive outcome I have
as a result of your surgical
excellence.
—M.M., PATIENT
Thought you would like to
know how well your stroke
patient is doing. His goal
during rehab was to play
golf again. Well he reached
his goal…and then some.
His team said that he
carried them to victory.
We thank you for giving
him back a quality of life
that he is enjoying beyond
our wildest dreams.
—P.C., SPOUSE OF PATIENT
DR. DAVID J. FIORELLA
Co-Director, Cerebrovascular Center
Professor of Neurological Surgery and Radiology
Diplomate, American Board of Radiology, 2000
Certificate of Added Qualification, Neuroradiology, 2004
Dr. David J. Fiorella, a neurointerventional
radiologist, held appointments at the
Cleveland Clinic and the Barrow Neuro-
logical Institute prior to joining the
Cerebrovascular Center at Stony Brook.
He attended medical school at SUNY
Buffalo, earning both MD and PhD
(Neuropharmacology) degrees in five years.
He completed a residency in radiology at
Duke University Medical Center, then
completed diagnostic neuroradiology and
endovascular neurosurgery fellowships at
the Barrow Neurological Institute.
Dr. Fiorella is considered a pioneer in the
field of neuro-interventional radiology and
is renowned for performing the first three percutaneous angioplasty and
stenting procedures for intracranial atherosclerosis with the Wingspan™
Stent system, and the first three aneurysm treatments using the Pipeline™
Embolization Device in North America. He was the first physician worldwide
to perform intracranial angioplasty with the SeQuent®
Please Drug Eluting
Balloon. He is one of the most experienced physicians in the world in the use
of the Pipeline™
Embolization Device.
Dr. Fiorella joined the Department of Neurosurgery in 2009, partnering with
Dr. Henry Woo, to develop of a world class Cerebrovascular and Stroke Center.
He has expertise in neuroendovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms,
endovascular management of acute stroke, embolization of CNS tumors, and
endovascular treatment of cerebral and spinal arteriovenous malformations,
dural arteriovenous fistulas, and carotid and intracranial atherosclerosis.
As the Co-Principal Investigator of the NIH-funded SAMMPRIS trial,
Dr. Fiorella published in Lancet the results of this randomized trial comparing
aggressive medical management to stenting to prevent recurrent stroke for
intracranial stenosis. He is a senior member of the Society for Neurointer-
ventional Surgery (SNIS) and currently serves on the Executive Committee
for SNIS. Dr. Fiorella was the recipient of the 2012 Achievements in Health
Care Award by the Long Island Business News.
Co-Director, Cerebrovascular Center
Professor of Neurological Surgery and Radiology
Diplomate, American Board of Radiology, 2000
Certificate of Added Qualification, Neuroradiology, 2004
Endovascular Surgery Fellowship: Barrow Neurological Institute
Diagnostic Radiology Fellowship: Barrow Neurological Institute
Radiology Residency: Duke University Medical Center
PhD in Neuropharmacology: State University of New York at Buffalo
Medical School: State University of New York at Buffalo
9. DR. ROBERT M. GALLER
Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery and Orthopaedics
Co-Director, Stony Brook Comprehensive Spine Center
Medical Director, Spine Treatment Center of PBMC
Board Certification, Neurological Surgery, 2004
Dr. Robert M. Galler, Co-Director of the
Stony Brook Comprehensive Spine Center,
has fellowship training and expertise in
neurosurgery and complex spine surgery.
Having trained with Dr. Volker Sonntag,
the father of modern spinal neurosurgery,
at the Barrow Neurological Institute and
Dr. Kevin Folley, pioneer of minimally
invasive spine surgery, at Semmes
Murphy Clinic, Dr. Galler is highly skilled
to perform all types of spinal surgery
using state-of-the-art techniques. These
include complex spinal instrumentation
and microsurgery for the treatment of
degenerative disc disease, cervical and
lumbar herniated discs, tumors of the spine and spinal cord, adult scoliosis,
and spinal stenosis. In addition, he is a proficient neurosurgeon in the
treatment of brain tumors, neurotrauma and general cranial neurosurgery.
Dr. Galler is the Medical Director of the Spine Surgery Center at Peconic
Bay Medical Center and along with Dr. Davis, he is a leader in making
state-of–the-art spine treatments convenient to residents of the East End
of Long Island.
Dr. Galler is the Principal Investigator on several clinical trials including
the study of medical and surgical treatments for acute spinal cord injury
and traumatic brain injury. Dr. Galler holds professional memberships in
the American Association of Neurological Surgery, the Congress of
Neurosurgeons and the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons (ACOS).
He is a member of the Neurosurgery Test Construction Committee and
the Clinical Assembly Scientific Committee of the ACOS.
Dr. Galler is highly regarded for contributing his time to travel to Tanzania
to train African neurosurgeons through various humanitarian organizations.
Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery and Orthopaedics
Co-Director, Stony Brook Comprehensive Spine Center
Medical Director, Spine Treatment Center of PBMC
Board Certification, Neurological Surgery, 2004
Fellow American College of Surgeons/American College of
Osteopathic Surgeons
Neurosurgical Fellowship/Complex Spine: Barrow Neurological Institute
Neurosurgical Fellowship/Minimally Invasive Spine: Semmes Murphy Clinic
Neurosurgical Residency: Long Island Jewish/North Shore Health Systems
Medical School: New York College of Osteopathic Medicine
I am almost a month late
in thanking you for the
masterful surgery you
performed on my brother.
We interrupted you on a
Friday night and you
showed up and were
wonderfully thoughtful in
how you explained what
you would be doing in the
operation – and then, like
the Lone Ranger, you were
off. Thank you for saving
my brother’s life.
—S.M., SIBLING OF PATIENT
It was my 6 month check-
up from my back fusion
surgery. I have never been
out of pain till now. I can
finally get through a full day
and not take at least an
hour on the heating pad
or icing my back. I also
have not taken any pain
medication since February.
I feel like I got a second
chance in life. And I owe
this all to you.
—H.M.L., PATIENT
In January, you and your
team saved my life. In
December, I married the
love of my life. …There are
so many more memories
ahead…because of you.
—G.C., PATIENT
7
10. DR. FREDERICK B GUTMAN
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Orthopaedics
Co-Director, Neuro-oncology Center
Director, Neurosurgery Inpatient Service
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 2000
Dr. Frederick B. Gutman, Director of
the Neurosurgery Inpatient Service,
has expertise in all areas of neuro-
surgery. He works closely with the
Physician Assistants and Nurse
Practitioners to review and improve
the delivery of care to the inpatients.
Dr. Gutman is known for performing
the first cortical mapping procedure
at SBUH and was profiled on the
University Physicians website for
performing Suffolk County’s first
minimally invasive endoscopic
procedure to treat a pituitary tumor.
His practice includes the treatment
of herniated discs, brain aneurysms, cervical spondylosis, spinal stenosis,
and spinal and brain tumors. He is expert in the use of stereotactic
radiosurgery and image guided computer assisted surgery. In addition
to directing the Neurosurgery Inpatient Service at SBUH, Dr. Gutman
co-directs the Neuro-Oncology Center of the Neurosciences Institute.
Dr. Gutman participates in several of the clinical trials involving spinal
trauma and brain tumors. Due to his expertise in the area of computer
technology, Dr. Gutman was named one of the lead Physician Champions
for the department’s transition to an integrated electronic medical
record for both hospital and ambulatory patients.
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Orthopaedics
Co-Director, Neuro-oncology Center
Director, Neurosurgery Inpatient Service
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 2000
Neurosurgical Fellowship: New York Medical College
Neurosurgical Residency: University of Miami
Medical School: Stony Brook University
Thank you so much for
the exceptional care and
compassion and for always
taking the time to answer
ALL of our questions. We
both felt so much more at
ease during our difficult
situation that you (and your
team) were the ones caring
for us. Thank you over and
over again!
—E.P. AND K.P., PATIENT
AND SPOUSE
In December, you resected
a meningioma in my left
parietal lobe. Thank you
for your professionalism,
outstanding bedside manner
and compassion during this
difficult time for myself
and my family.
—J. P-C., PATIENT
Just saying thank you seems
inadequate. You spent hours
repairing damage to my
spine to create a work
of art that no one will ever
see. I don’t know if there is
a more selfless profession
than yours. I had 100%
trust in your ability and
judgment. You are not only
a gifted surgeon but also a
genuinely personable man.
—V.T., PATIENT
11. DR. ARTHUR P. ROSIELLO
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Orthopaedics
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1993
Fellow, American College of Surgeons, 1996
Dr. Arthur P. Rosiello received his
neurosurgical training from legendary
neurosurgeons, Drs. Joseph Ransohoff,
Eugene Flamm, Vallo Benjamin and
Fred Epstein, at New York University.
He completed a fellowship in spine and
skull base surgery under the guidance of
Dr. Vallo Benjamin at New York
University. The American College of
Surgeons and the American Association
of Neurological Surgeons honor him as
an active fellow.
His practice includes many aspects of
neurosurgery: brain and spinal tumors,
intracranial endoscopic surgery, and
spinal surgery. He is an expert at CT and MRI guided surgery of the brain
and spine, as well as minimally invasive techniques for the treatment of
conditions affecting the brain and spine. These techniques allow for the
safer diagnosis and treatment of lesions that might usually be thought
of as inoperable. Dr. Rosiello works closely with Dr. Gutman to manage
the neurosurgery inpatient service.
His current research efforts involve malignant primary brain tumors,
intracranial pressure analysis, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) physiology and
artificial vision. Dr. Rosiello is the Co-Director of the bi-monthly meetings
of the Neuro-Oncology Tumor Board.
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Orthopaedics
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1993
Fellow, American College of Surgeons, 1996
Spine and Cranial Base Fellowship: New York University
Neurosurgical Residency: New York University
Neurology Residency Program: Harvard University
Medical School: State University of New York at Buffalo
You listened to me. You
discovered the problem.
You found a solution. You
fixed me. Thank you so
much. I have my life back.
—J.M., PATIENT
I am writing to praise and to
express my deepest gratitude
to the wonderful people who
cared for my husband during
his hospital stay. I respect
and appreciate Dr. Rosiello
for his supreme surgical skill
and his kindness towards my
husband and me during this
stressful period.
—J.S., SPOUSE OF PATIENT
You are an excellent doctor
and a very nice person. I am
so lucky to have you to be
my doctor. I appreciate all
the efforts you made to save
my life. Thank you very,
very much.
—F.C., PATIENT
9
12. DR. JONATHAN L. RAANAN
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Physical Medicine
and Rehabilitation
Medical Director, Spine Physiatry Service of PBMC
Diplomate, American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2006
Dr. Jonathan L. Raanan, a Board-certified
Physiatrist (Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation specialist), concentrates his
practice on the diagnosis and treatment
of disorders of the spine. He is focused on
prescribing physical therapy, minimizing
medications and performing non-surgical
procedures for the treatment of conditions
such as degenerative disc disease, sciatica
(radiculopathy), arthritis of the spine
(spondylosis), herniated discs and spinal
stenosis. Dr. Raanan’s expertise includes
performance of epidural injections, joint
injections (e.g. facet, sacro-iliac), and
radiofrequency nerve ablation – all
performed using fluoroscopic guidance to maximize safety and accuracy.
He is proficient in administering diagnostic tests such as lumbar
discography to identify pain-generating disc abnormalities, as well as
nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) to ascertain
if nerves are pinched (e.g. radioculopathy) or compressed (e.g. Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome).
Dr. Raanan is the Director of the Spine Physiatry Service at PBMC and
works closely with Dr. Galler in the Spine Treatment Center to provide
the “East End” patients with a comprehensive approach to the treatment of
spinal disorders and diseases. Dr. Raanan performs procedures at the ASC
of Stony Brook Medicine and the Spine Treatment Center of PBMC.
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Physical Medicine
and Rehabilitation
Medical Director, Spine Physiatry Service of PBMC
Diplomate, American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2006
Spine and Sports Medicine Fellowship: Chicago Institute of Neurosurgery
and Neuroresearch
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency/Chief Resident:
Columbia and Cornell Medical Centers – New York Presbyterian Hospital
Medical School and Internship: New Jersey Medical School –
University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey
Just a note to say thank you
for giving me back my life.
I had a wonderful time in
California with my grand-
children. All thanks to you.
I don’t know if I’ll need to
be back to you for another
treatment, but I will come
completely confident that I
am in very good hands.
—P.D., PATIENT
I respect and admire you
greatly for the kindness, sup-
port and professionalism you
have shown me. I would not
be in the stage of recovery I
am in now, were it not for
you. Thank you for every-
thing and I will never take
for granted what you have
given me back.
—R.G., PATIENT
I thought I would let you
know that the injection
produced rather remarkable
results. There has been a
great reduction in pain
and an almost complete
reduction of radiculopathy
while standing. I would
sincerely like to thank you
for providing some much
needed relief.
—A.M., PATIENT
13. I want to thank you for
giving me hope on the day
I met you, that I would not
have to live with a brain
aneurysm for the rest for
my life. You had a plan for
me that took me step by
step to this point where I
no longer have to worry
about the aneurysm. You
said I was a “frequent flyer”
and I was, but you piloted
me throughout these years
to my destination as only
you could.
—J.F., PATIENT
Long story, short, I’ve been
to hell and back but some-
how got through it. You were
a big part of this; you are a
fantastic neurosurgeon who
provided me with the best
possible chance of recovery.
—L.B., PATIENT
I consider myself an
extremely fortunate person
to have been treated by you.
Besides being an excellent
neurosurgeon, you were
extremely sensitive to the
needs of my family and
me. You took the time to
explain things and answer
all of our questions. It was
your optimism and devotion
that helped carry my family
through this ordeal.
—A.W., PATIENT
DR. HENRY H. WOO
Vice Chair, Department of Neurological Surgery
Director, Cerebrovascular Center
Co-Director, Cerebrovascular and Stroke Center
Professor of Neurological Surgery and Radiology
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 2008
Dr. Henry H. Woo, Co-Director of the
Cerebrovascular and Stroke Center, is
a Board-Certified Cerebrovascular/
Endovascular Neurosurgeon with fellow-
ship training in Neurointerventional
Radiology. He was recruited from the
Cleveland Clinic in 2007 to head up the
development of a Comprehensive
Cerebrovascular Center at Stony Brook
Medicine for the diagnosis and treatment
of stroke and cerebrovascular disease.
Dr. Woo has expertise in the surgical and
neurointerventional treatment of cerebral
aneurysms, carotid and intracranial
atherosclerosis, spinal and dural fistulas,
arteriovenous malformations and acute stroke. He performs stereotactic
radiosurgery for arteriovenous malformations; and provides embolization
services for both brain and spinal tumors.
Dr. Woo directs an active clinical trials program and hemodynamic
laboratory to bring the latest endovascular devices and treatments to
his patients. He is widely published in peer-reviewed journals such as
Neurosurgery, Stroke, Journal of Neurosurgery, American Journal of
Neuroradiology, Journal of Neurointerventional Surgery, Contemporary
Neurosurgery and Critical Care Medicine.
Dr. Woo’s professional memberships include the American Association
of Neurological Surgeons, the Society of Neurological Surgery, the
American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology,
the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the AANS/CNS Joint Section of
Cerebrovascular Association and the World Federation of Interventional
and Therapeutic Neuroradiology.
Dr. Woo was honored as one of the top doctors in New York Magazine’s
Best Doctor’s issue for the past three years: 2012, 2013, and 2014.
Vice Chair, Department of Neurological Surgery
Director, Cerebrovascular Center
Co-Director, Cerebrovascular and Stroke Center
Professor of Neurological Surgery and Radiology
Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgery, 2008
Interventional Neuroradiology Fellowship: New York University
Medical Center
Neurosurgical Residency: New York University Medical Center
Medical School: New York University School of Medicine
11
14. DR. DONALD S.F. MACRON
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Physical Medicine
and Rehabilitation
Diplomate, American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2010
Dr. Donald S.F. Macron, a Board-Certified
Physiatrist (Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation specialist) joined the
department in 2013. He is fellowship
trained in non-surgical sports medicine
and spine care. His emphasis is on the use
of non-pharmacological and non-surgical
means, such as physical therapy and
image-guided procedures, to optimize the
patient’s function and activity. His practice
includes the diagnosis and care of the back,
neck, and tailbone pain, as well as nerve
pain originating from these areas radiating
to the limbs, such as sciatica-type pains.
Dr. Macron routinely performs spinal
procedures such as epidural injections, facet joint procedures, and injections
of the large joints like hips, knees, shoulders and the sacroiliac joint. He also
performs ganglion impar blocks and injections of the sacrococcygeal joint for
tailbone pain. Dr. Macron performs procedures at the ASC of Stony Brook
Medicine and the Spine Treatment Center of PBMC.
Dr. Macron studied medicine at Boston University, earning MD and MA
degrees. He trained at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, and
completed a fellowship in Sports and Spine Rehabilitation Medicine at the
University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He has published in textbooks
on spine injury and rehabilitation, and in journals such as Annals of
Thoracic Surgery and Pain Physician.
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Diplomate, American Board of Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation, 2010
Spine, Sports and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Fellowship:
University of Pennsylvania
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency: Mount Sinai Hospital
Internship: St Vincent Hospital – Worcester Medical Center
Medical School: Boston University School of Medicine
"I try to bring an integrative
approach to treating spine
problems, using a variety
of non-surgical approaches
and not a “one-size-fits-all”
mentality. As a physiatrist,
my focus is working with
my patients not just to
minimize their pain, but
also to increase their
functionality and optimize
their quality of life. My
goal is to provide spine
rehabilitation care in
an intelligent and
compassionate manner.”
Personal Statement
15. “I am excited to bring my
expertise as a pediatric
neurosurgeon to the
Stony Brook community.
My goal is to deliver a
comprehensive range of
care to my patients with
particular emphasis on less
invasive techniques for the
removal of brain tumors
and the correction of
craniosynostosis as well
as the surgical treatment
of epilepsy in both pediatric
and adult populations.”
DR. DAVID A. CHESLER
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Pediatrics
Co-Director, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Dr. David A. Chesler, a fellowship-trained
pediatric neurosurgeon, is a recent
addition to the department in August
2014. He earned a PhD at New York
University (NYU) in neuroimmunology
then went on to complete his medical
degree at Albert Einstein School of
Medicine. He fulfilled the requirements
of a neurosurgery residency at University
of Maryland Medical Center and
concluded his training with two
fellowships, one in neuro-oncology and
one in Pediatric Neurosurgery at Johns
Hopkins School of Medicine. In addition
to general pediatric neurosurgery,
Dr. Chesler’s areas of expertise include epilepsy surgery (pediatric and
adult) – a new service offer by neurosurgery – as well as endoscopic
repair of craniosynostosis, surgical treatment of brain and spinal cord
tumors, and moyamoya disease.
Dr. Chesler earned his PhD in neuroimmunology at NYU under
Dr. Carol Reiss looking at cytokine signaling pathways and their role
in antiviral responses in central nervous system neurons. He completed
a two-year NIH funded post-doctoral fellowship at Johns Hopkins where
he focused on utilizing genetically modified stem cells to target human
glioblastoma as a potentially novel adjuvant therapy. He hopes to continue
his glioblastoma research and as a pediatric neurosurgeon, to expand this
line of experimental investigation to include central nervous system
neoplasms of children, such as medulloblastoma and ependymoma.
Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery and Pediatrics,
Co-Director, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Neurosurgery and Oncology Fellowship:
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Pediatric Neurosurgery Clinical and Research Fellowship:
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Neurosurgical Residency: University of Maryland Medical Center
Medical School: Albert Einstein School of Medicine
PhD in Neuroimmunology: New York University
13
Personal Statement
16. Ambulatory Care Office Appointments
To schedule an appointment with our doctors, call (631) 444-1213, option 1 and speak
with our scheduling staff.
At the time you call to schedule your appointment, you will be asked for:
• information on your medical problem,
• your referring physician and your primary care physician,
• when and where your radiology films/scans were performed, and
• your complete insurance information.
Additional Information: Please have this information handy when you call. If you
are enrolled with an insurance company that requires a referral, please obtain your
referral before your scheduled appointment.
Pre-screening for spine patients: In order to make an appointment for a spine
consultation, the patient must provide the office with a copy of:
• Your MRI radiology report that is less than six months old. It is our policy to offer a
free pre-screening of MRIs to ensure that the patient is directed to the appropriate
provider for his/her condition. All patients will receive an appointment with a neuro-
surgeon, a physiatrist or a neurosurgical Physician Assistant for a full and complete
examination. If the Physiatrist or the Physician Assistant feels that the patient
needs to be seen by a neurosurgeon, he/she will receive an expedited appointment.
• Diagnosis or reason for consultation. Copy of referring doctor’s clinic note
(if available).
• Reports of any other applicable testing such as CT scans, X-rays, or EMGs.
Office visit paperwork may be downloaded and completed at home prior to your visit
by going to the Neurosciences Institute website neuro.stonybrookmedicine.edu.
There is a link to New Patient Forms under the drop down list under Patients and
Visitors across the top of the Homepage.
All patients must bring the following items at the time of their appointment:
• Your consultation request (if applicable)
• Recent (within 6 months) CT, MRI or X-Ray films/scans and Reports
• Your insurance referral
• A list of current prescriptions and over the counter medications including dosages
and frequencies. You may bring the medication containers if that is easier.
Additional Information: Our doctors must evaluate your radiology images during
your visit. Please bring the CD or films from the facility that performed your study
to your appointment. If your radiology studies were performed at Stony Brook
Radiology, we can access them online.
Payment for our services is expected when you see the doctor or one of our Physician
Assistants. If you have no insurance or the doctor is a non-participating provider of
your insurance company, the appointment scheduler will refer you to the appropriate
persons to determine how billing and payment will be handled.
14
17. Hospital Admissions
Hospital admissions for surgery of the spine or brain (Drs. Chesler, Davis, Egnor, Galler,
Gutman, Rosiello, and Woo).
If you and your neurosurgeon determine that you will have surgery, the doctor’s
administrative assistant will call to notify you of the admitting date and to schedule
pre-admission testing, and a history and physical. You will be asked to sign a consent
form, giving your neurosurgeon permission to operate. A parent, next-of-kin, or
guardian must sign for a minor or an adult unable to sign. Your anesthesiologist will
discuss the type of anesthesia you will receive.
Before your admission, the hospital will call you to obtain medical record information
about your hospital stay. Your diet will be restricted the evening before surgery.
Please check with your neurosurgeon or the Physician Assistant about aspirin and
aspirin containing medications, which may be prohibited prior to surgery.
Your scans/films are required for your neurosurgeon to perform surgery. Our office
is not responsible for lost scans/films. Please be sure to request that your scan/films
be returned to you before you are discharged from the hospital.
The neurosurgeons operate at Stony Brook University Hospital for all conditions.
However, you may have your spine surgery performed at SBUH, the Spine Treatment
Center of PBMC, or ELIH. If you have a preference, please discuss this with your
neurosurgeon or administrative assistant. We try our best to accommodate our
patients’ wishes in this regard, but ultimately the neurosurgeon will determine the
location based on what is best for your condition and inpatient care.
New York Spine and Brain Surgery, UFPC is a separate entity from SBUH, PBMC,
and ELIH. You will be billed separately for services provided by each institution.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND CLINICAL RESEARCH STAFF FOR CV CENTER
18. If, together with your doctor, you decide to have a procedure at the Stony Brook ASC or
the Spine Treatment Center of PBMC, the doctor’s administrative assistant will call to
notify you of your appointment date. You will be asked to sign a consent form, giving your
doctor permission to perform the procedure. A parent, next-of-kin, or guardian must sign
for a minor or an adult unable to sign.
• You must arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure. If you do not
have a ride, your procedure will be cancelled for that day.
• You will be given detailed instructions at your office visit if any medication changes are
required prior to your procedure.
• Please bring to your procedure any MRIs, CT scans or X-rays that Dr. Raanan or
Dr. Macron reviewed at your office visit(s). Be sure to request that your scans/films
be returned to you before discharge from the Stony Brook ASC or PBMC.
• Notify your physician if you have an allergy to iodine or contrast. In such cases, medication
will need to be taken prior to the procedure to reduce a potential allergic reaction.
Procedures at Stony Brook ASC or PBMC:
On the day of the procedure, you will be greeted and directed through the registration process.
Then you will change into a hospital gown and an IV will be placed in your arm or hand. Your
physician will meet with you to review the scheduled procedure and answer any remaining
questions you may have before you are escorted to the fluoroscopy (X-ray) room. In this room,
you will be assisted onto the table where your procedure will be performed and your vital
signs monitored. Upon completion of the procedure, you will be escorted to a post-procedural
area for a brief period of observation. At this point you may change into your clothes and
prepare for discharge.
You will receive instructions on when to schedule a follow up appointment from your physician.
Guidelines for Ambulatory Surgery Procedures
Using Fluoroscopic Guidance
DR. RAANAN AND DR. MACRON
19. (LEFT PAGE) AMBULATORY OFFICE STAFF;
(LEFT TOP) DR. JONATHAN RAANAN,
SPINE PHYSIATRIST, IN OUTPATIENT
OFFICE; (BELOW) DR. DONALD MACRON,
SPINE PHYSIATRIST, CONSULTING WITH
MEDICAL ASSISTANT
20. The Cerebrovascular Center of
Stony Brook University Medical Center
DR. HENRY WOO AND DR. DAVID FIORELLA
The Cerebrovascular (CV) Center offers every minimally invasive stroke intervention
technique which has been approved for the opening of narrowed or blocked arteries
going to and within the brain as well as for the repair of brain aneurysms and vascular
malformations. The CV Center has led the way on Long Island by pioneering the
application of new technologies and procedures, including the first intracranial
angioplasty and stenting with the Wingspan™
stent system, the first use of Onyx for
the treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations and aneurysms and the first
application of the Cordis Enterprise™
stent to treat a cerebral aneurysm, among others.
The neurosurgeons of the CV Center also provide advanced surgical treatments
including the bypass of blocked brain vessels, and the open surgical repair of
complex cerebral aneurysms and vascular malformations when minimally invasive
techniques are not a treatment option.
The CV Center is equipped with the most advanced cerebrovascular biplane
angiography suites; a dedicated Stroke Unit; two new Neurosurgery Operating
Rooms with state of the art microscopes and vascular imaging; a mobile CT scanner,
and very soon, a Neurological ICU. Patients of the CV Center also have the
opportunity to participate in a wide variety of cutting edge clinical research trials.
After clinical evaluation and it is determined that you will need a diagnostic
angiogram or an interventional procedure, the administrative assistants of the
CV Center will be available to assist you with the scheduling of your procedure,
obtaining insurance authorizations and pre-procedure testing.
(BELOW) NEUROINTERVENTIONAL SUITE; (RIGHT, ABOVE) CEREBROVASCULAR CENTER CLINICAL TEAM
IN NEUROINTERVENTIONAL SUITE; (RIGHT, BELOW) DR. FIORELLA AND DR. WOO WITH THE CV CENTER
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS)
21.
22. 4
We have a call system that allows our patients to be connected directly with
the various offices within our practice. Your call will be answered with a
recording which will direct you to several options:
To make an appointment with our doctors at any of our ambulatory care offices,
press option 1:
This option is used to schedule, change or confirm an appointment at the doctor’s
office. Your call will be specifically directed to our appointment scheduling staff
and they will help you as quickly as possible. You may be asked to hold while the
staff members take information from other patients or you may be placed in a
queue allowing us to answer calls in the order they are received. Please have all
necessary information handy when you call (referring doctor, primary care doctor
and insurance information).
To access the doctor’s administrative assistant or the administrative office,
press option 2:
This option will lead you to another list of options by doctor. The doctor’s
administrative assistant will help you with the scheduling of surgery,
interventional procedures, MRI or CT scans, referrals, completion of forms, etc.
(Please Note: The doctors’ administrative assistants’ direct office phone numbers
are listed in the Telephone Directory of this booklet).
For prescription renewals or questions about Pre- or Post-Operative Care,
press option 3:
This option directs the caller to a recording so that all of the information may
be gathered for handling by the Physician Assistants or Nurse Practitioners.
Please be sure to have your prescription bottle with you so that all necessary
information is available to you. The pharmacy name and phone number is
required, as is the medication name, dosage and frequency. It is always helpful
to have the prescription number as well. The Physician Assistants and Nurse
Practitioners try to complete all refills within two business days unless there is
an issue that must be discussed with the doctor. Please plan ahead and don’t
wait until you are out of medication to call us for a refill.
Additional Information: The doctors will prescribe relevant medications for you
while you are under their care, pre- and post-operatively; usually 90 days post-
operatively. After your neurosurgical care is completed or if you were seen by the
doctor for consultative services only, it is your responsibility to seek medication
renewals from your primary care physician.
For directions to our ambulatory care offices, or for our fax number,
press option 4.
To contact us, call (631) 444–1213 and press...
1
2
3
20
23. For medical records requests, press option 5:
This option will lead you to a phone mailbox describing directions for requesting
your medical records in writing. Requests must be sent in writing along with a
signed authorization form. Your ambulatory care medical records may be copied and
sent to other healthcare providers at your request. However, you need to write to
the Medical Records Department at the hospital where you were treated to request
copies of your inpatient medical records. In certain circumstances you may be
charged a fee of 75 cents per page and postage for a copy of your medical record.
Patients have a right to the following information:
• Any outpatient consultation or provider notes
• Operative reports
• Discharge or Transfer Summaries dictated by our staff
• EMG (electromyography) reports for tests performed by our Physiatrists
• Diagnostic studies, such as angiograms, performed by our endovascular surgeons
• Radiology reports for X-rays performed in the Radiology Suite at 24 Research
Way in Technology Park, East Setauket (Please Note: You must request all other
copies of radiology scans/films or reports from the facility where the radiology test
was performed)
5
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE STAFF
24. Appointments ....................................................................................................(631) 444 1213
Practice Billing Office ......................................................................................(631) 444-4800
Department Administrative Office................................................................(631) 444-1116
Fax Number (Administrative Office)............................................................(631) 444-1535
Fax Number (Ambulatory Care Office)........................................................(631) 444-9310
Fax Number (Cerebrovascular Center) .......................................................(631) 444-6230
DOCTOR’S ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS
Dr. David Chesler.............................................................................................(631) 444-7630
Dr. Raphael Davis.............................................................................................(631) 444-7925
Dr. Michael Egnor ...........................................................................................(631) 444-7630
Dr. David Fiorella ............................................................................................(631) 444-2772
Dr. Robert Galler..............................................................................................(631) 444-7328
Dr. Frederick Gutman......................................................................................(631) 444-2854
Dr. Donald Macron............................................................................................(631) 444-8105
Dr. Arthur Rosiello...........................................................................................(631) 444-2854
Dr. Jonathan Raanan........................................................................................(631) 444-1092
Dr. Henry Woo ..................................................................................................(631) 444-9137
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
University Hospital Operator ........................................................................(631) 689-8333
Admitting Office ...............................................................................................(631) 444-2590
Pre Surgical Unit..............................................................................................(631) 444-1002
Business Office/Patient Accounts: University Hospital.............................(631) 444-4151
Medical Records...............................................................................................(631) 444-1300
Outpatient Imaging Center (MRI/CT scans)...............................................(631) 638-2121
Stony Brook Ambulatory Surgery Center...................................................(631) 444-9400
Social Work Services........................................................................................(631) 444-1955
Patient/Guest Relations...................................................................................(631) 444-2880
Telephone Directory
22
(ABOVE, L TO R) PRESENTERS AT WHAT'S NEW IN PEDIATRIC NEUROSURGERY EVENT: DR. EGNOR, DR. CHESLER,
AND DR. FIORELLA; (BOTTOM) DR. GALLER IN OPERATING ROOM
25.
26. RIVERHEAD OFFICE
54 COMMERCE DRIVE, SUITE 7
RIVERHEAD, NY 11901
STONY BROOK TECHNOLOGY PARK
24 RESEARCH WAY, SUITE 200
EAST SETAUKET, NY 11733
Long Island Expressway 495
Route 25A
Route 25
Rte 347
Sunrise Highway
Atlantic Ocean
Montauk Highway
Exit 62
Exit 73
Nicholl’s Road 97
Peconic Bay
BelleMeadeRd
PondPath
Mark Tree Rd
Lower Sheep Pasture
Upper Sheep Pastur
e
Long Island Expressway/495
Exit 62
Nesconset Highway - Route 347
Main Street/25A
Technology Dr
Research Way
Old Town Road
Nicolls Road/97
East Setauket
Stony Brook
Technolgy Park
N
Rt. 105
Exit 73
Riverhead
Office
Rt. 24
Rt. 25
L.I.E./495
Riverhead
Rt. 43
West Main Street
Sound Avenue
Mill R
oad
Rt. 58
Old Country Road
Commerc
eDrive
Riverhead
East Setauket
Long Island Expressway/495
Exit 62
Nesconset Highway - Route 347
Main Street/25A
Nicolls Road/97
Stony Brook
The Cerebrovascular Center
Stony Brook University
Medical Center
THE CEREBROVASCULAR CENTER
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
STONY BROOK, NY 11794
EASTERN LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK
24
27. NEW YORK SPINE AND BRAIN SURGERY, UFPC
The New York Spine and Brain Surgery ambulatory care offices in Technology
Park East Setauket, Riverhead and the Cerebrovascular Center of SBUH are
equipped with the latest technology to ensure that our patients experience an
efficient and productive visit. All exam rooms include computers to quickly
access radiology films/scans and reports performed at Stony Brook. Also there
is an X-ray facility at each of the ambulatory care offices, if needed. The practice
keeps electronic patient records that are easily accessible to all members of the
Neurosurgery team so that your medical information is available immediately
at all of our ambulatory care sites and in SBUH.
DIRECTIONS
STONY BROOK TECHNOLOGY PARK
24 Research Way, Suite 200, East Setauket, NY 11733
From the Long Island Expressway (I-495): Take Exit 62, North on Nicolls Road
(CR 97) towards Stony Brook. Right onto Nesconset Highway (Route 347). Left
onto Belle Meade Road. Third right onto Research Way. Building Number 24,
Suite 200. It will be the third building on your left.
RIVERHEAD OFFICE
54 Commerce Drive, Suite 7, Riverhead, NY 11901
From the East: Take CR 58 and make a right onto Commerce Drive (at the Panera
Bread). Building 54 is on the right. The entrance is in the back of the building.
From the West: Take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) to Exit 73. Take CR 58
eastbound and make a left onto Commerce Drive (at the Panera Bread). Building 54
is on the right. The entrance is in the back of the building.
THE CEREBROVASCULAR CENTER
Stony Brook University Hospital, Level 4, Room 430
From the Long Island Expressway (I-495): Take Exit 62, North on Nicolls Road
(CR 97) towards Stony Brook for approximately 8.5 miles. Make a right onto
Health Sciences Drive.
The main entrance to Stony Brook Hospital is on the left at the second traffic
light. If you park in the garage, be sure to bring the ticket issued by the machine
at the garage entrance with you into our office and we will give you a validation
sticker so that you do not have to pay for parking when you exit. If you wish to
use the Valet parking, do so by accessing the valet at the main entrance of the
hospital. You will have to pay $6.00 when you leave your car, but we will give
you a voucher and your $6.00 will be reimbursed when you pick up your car.
Walk to the main elevators and proceed down to level 4. The Cerebrovascular
Center is on Level 4 just as you step off of the elevator. The entrance door is in
the corner where the two banks of elevators meet.
Directions to our Ambulatory Care Office Locations
25
PHOTOGRAPHY:JEANNENEVILLE