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Dr. Dani Bidros grew up and attended school in Lafayette, Louisiana. After obtaining top honors at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, he began medical school at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. Early in medical school, he became intrigued with neuroscience, and began his pursuit to becoming a neurosurgeon. He completed his intern year in General Surgery residency at Charity Hospital in New Orleans which provided him with the knowledge and skills to treat critically ill patients. After completing the intenrship, he began his neurological surgery training at Louisiana State University in New Orleans, rotating at both Charity Hospital and at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation. He was trained by the esteemed Neurosurgery and Harvey Cushing Medal recipient Dr. David Kline. He completed residency and fellowships at the world famous Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Bidros' focus include Spine, Spine Oncology, minimally invasive Brain and Spine surgery, Brain Oncology.

Dr. Sahni was raised in New York City where he attended Columbia University for both undergraduate and medical school. he then moved to Houston to train in neurological surgery at the Baylor College of Medicine and MD Anderson Cancer Center - one of the most intensive and rigorous neurosurgery training programs in the nation. During residency, Dr. Sahni won the prestigious NREF award, of which only a handful are awarded annually, and conducted ground-breaking research in the use of nanotechnology for spinal cord regeneration. After residency, he completed a complex and minimally invasive spine fellowship in orthopedic spine surgery. He is among the very few spine surgeons in Texas with dual training in both neurosurgery and orthopedic spine surgery. In addition, he has extensive training in brain and spine tumors from MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he was a chief resident. Dr. Sahni currently serves as the chief trauma neurosurgery coordinator for St. David's South Austin Hospital.

Ashlee Rego, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant at Advanced Neurosurgery's offices in Reno and Carson City, Nevada. She’s a highly motivated professional experienced in providing excellent care tailored to each patient's needs.

Ashlee attended Florida International University in Miami, graduating in 2013 with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry. In 2020, she earned a master’s degree in physician assistant studies at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) School of Medicine. She’s also certified in advanced cardiovascular life support and pediatric advanced life support.

Ashlee's extensive clinical experience includes orthopedics, women's health, family medicine, geriatrics and palliative care, internal medicine, pediatrics, and behavioral medicine. She’s also worked in general and orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery. 

Ashlee is an active member of both the Nevada Academy of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants. She also represented the UNR School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program in the Assembly of Representatives.

Ashlee is passionate in her concern for the patients she cares for at Advanced Neurosurgery. They, in turn, appreciate her warmth and respect, as well as her medical expertise. She aims to welcome patients who are going through distressing, often painful experiences, and provide them with the comfort and support they need.

 

Koijan Kainth, MD, is an experienced, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and neurosurgeon at The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre in The Woodlands, Texas. Dr. Kainth brings a unique perspective to treating spinal disorders. He has expertise in orthopedic spine surgery and neurosurgery and is board-certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery.

Dr. Kainth finished at the top of his class after earning his undergraduate degree from the University of California at Berkeley. He received his medical degree from Penn State University in Centre County, Pennsylvania, and completed residency training in neurosurgery at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities and Penn State University. Dr. Kainth finished his training with a one-year orthopedic spine fellowship in Dallas, Texas.

He takes a conservative, individualized approach to care for patients, striving to help them thoroughly understand their condition and treatment options. Dr. Kainth has expertise in complex reconstructive and minimally invasive spine surgery. He recommends conservative treatments first and offers surgery as a last resort if other treatments fail.

Dr. Kainth maintains his advanced credentials with continuing education. He’s a fellow of the American Board of Neurological Surgery and a member of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, North American Spine Society, Montgomery County Medical Society, and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

Dr. Kainth welcomes patients to The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre and looks forward to working with them.

At Advanced Neurosurgery's offices in Reno and Carson City, Nevada,
board-certified neurological surgeon Michael Song, MD, delivers exceptional
care and positive outcomes for patients affected by central nervous system
conditions and peripheral nerve disorders.

Dr. Song specializes in performing spine surgeries such as artificial disc
replacement, herniated disc decompression and fusion, complex spinal
revisions, and microsurgery of the spinal cord.

Dr. Song attended Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis.
After earning his medical degree, he undertook a general surgery internship
at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, staying on to
complete his neurosurgery residency.

He's a member of Phi Beta Kappa and the Alpha Omega Alpha national medical
honor society. Dr. Song also received the American College of Surgeons Award
as a top student in surgery.

Dr. Song is a diplomate of the American Board of Neurological Surgery and a
member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of
Neurological Surgeons, Washoe County Medical Society, and Nevada State
Medical Association.

His hospital affiliations include Surgery Center of Reno, Carson Tahoe
Health, Renown Health, Sierra Surgery Hospital in Carson City, and the
Northern Nevada Medical Center in Sparks, Nevada.

Dr. Song has earned the Patient's Choice 5th Anniversary Award, an award
granted to only 1% of all doctors in the United States, for over 10 years
now.

Lloyd Zucker, MD, FAANS, is a board-certified neurosurgeon at the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida, providing complete neurosurgical care to people of all ages at locations in Delray Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Dr. Zucker started his professional education at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, where he earned his undergraduate degree with honors. Then, he enrolled at the Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine (formerly the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey) in Newark, obtaining his medical degree.

Before entering private practice, Dr. Zucker completed a neurosurgical residency at the University of Connecticut - Hartford Hospital in Hartford and a spinal surgery fellowship at the University of South Florida - Tampa General Hospital in Tampa.

Dr. Zucker has more than 30 years of experience diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the brain and spine. He holds several leadership positions at area facilities, including Chief of Neurosurgery at Delray Medical Center in Delray Beach, former Chief of Surgery, and director of neurosurgical services for the Palm Beach Health Network including Good Samaritian and Palm Beach Gardens Hospitals. 

Dr. Zucker is admired throughout South Florida for his clinical expertise. He’s one of the few providers in the area offering radiosurgery, neuro-oncology, and stereotactic procedures. He has led multiple clinical trials with Alzheimer's, but most recently exploring the use of focused ultrasound in the treatment of Parkinson's pallidothalamic tractotomy - the latest and most advanced form of focused ultrasound for Parkinson’s treatment.  

Dr. Zucker proudly holds membership in several professional organizations, including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and the North American Spine Society. He also serves as secretary and treasurer of the Subcortical Surgery Group.

When he isn’t meeting with patients, Dr. Zucker enjoys sharing his knowledge with others. He regularly attends national meetings and symposiums and sets aside time each year to spend time with colleagues at major private and academic centers.  

Dr. Zucker welcomes anyone seeking neurosurgical care to the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida today.

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Evan Packer, MD, FACS, FAANS, is a board-certified neurosurgeon at the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida, providing complete neurosurgical care to people in and around Delray Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Dr. Packer was born and raised in New York. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and his medical degree from the University of South Florida Health Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa. Dr. Packer thrived in the program and was elected to the prestigious medical honor society, Alpha Omega Alpha.

Before entering private practice, Dr. Packer completed a surgery internship and a neurological surgery residency at the University of South Florida Affiliated Hospitals and Clinics. Then, he received training in neurosurgical oncology at Moffitt Comprehensive Cancer Center and Research Institute (also in Tampa).

Dr. Packer brings extensive surgical training and experience to the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida. As a managing partner, he offers the latest treatments for both trauma and elective surgery. 

Dr. Packer never rushes consultations. He takes the time to discuss complex procedures, ensuring patients and their families know exactly what to expect. What’s more, he works one-on-one with each individual, overseeing each step of the treatment process. 

Dr. Packer enjoys attending industry conferences, national meetings, and symposiums when he isn’t working. He also contributes to medical publications, including the Textbook of Neurological Surgery.

Dr. Packer proudly holds membership in several professional organizations, including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and the North American Spine Society.

He welcomes anyone in need of neurological care to the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida today.

Yan Michael Li, MD, PhD, is a board-certified and fellowship-trained neurosurgeon serving patients at the Minimally Invasive Brain and Spine Institute. The practice has offices in Houston and San Antonio, Texas, and Upstate, New York. 

Dr. Li received his medical degree from Peking Union Medical College in Beijing, China. He then obtained his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.

He completed a neurosurgical residency and enfolded complex spine fellowship at the State University of New York in Albany, New York. Dr. Li completed fellowships at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. He also completed a neurosurgical oncology fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, focusing on complex brain and spine tumor surgery.

Dr. Li is an award-winning fellowship-trained spine and tumor neurosurgeon specializing in treating complex spine diseases and brain and spine tumors. He has a strong clinical interest in simple and complex spine surgery, minimally invasive spinal surgery, and computer-assisted spinal navigation and robotic surgery. 

Dr. Li provides the latest and most efficient treatment options for each patient with back pain, including minimally invasive herniated disk surgery through less than the one-inch incision, minimally invasive lateral or posterior spinal fusion surgery, and artificial disc implants that allow for more mobility.

He has a reputation as an expert in complex spinal surgery, with more than 50 percent of his referrals originating from other surgeons who relied on him for revision surgeries or complex spine cases outside their expertise. 

Dr. Li’s practice emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to disease processes to achieve the best patient outcomes. He works closely with other specialists, such as pain specialists, neurologists, and physical therapists.

 

 

Dr. Li has extended expertise in the research field, with about 70 papers published.

Articles in Peer-Reviewed Journals:

1. Li YM, Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Bucklen B. Laterally placed expandable interbody spacers with and without adjustable lordosis improve patient outcomes: A preliminary one-year chart review. Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2022 Jan 13;213:107123. doi: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2022.107123. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 35063724.
2. Li YM, Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Bucklen BS. Laterally Placed Expandable Interbody Spacers With and Without Adjustable Lordosis Improve Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes: A Two-Year Follow-Up Study. Cureus. 2021 Dec;13(12):e20302. doi: 10.7759/cureus.20302. eCollection 2021 Dec. PubMed PMID: 35028207; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC8748004.
3. Li YM, Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Riggleman JR, Ledonio C. Expandable Technology Improves Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Disc Disease. Int J Spine Surg. 2021 Feb;15(1):87-93. doi: 10.14444/8012. Epub 2021 Feb 12. PubMed PMID: 33900961; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC7931745.
4. Li YM, Frisch RF, Huang Z, Towner JE, Li YI, Edsall AL, Ledonio C. Comparative Effectiveness of Laterally Placed Expandable versus Static Interbody Spacers: A 1-Year Follow-Up Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes Study. Asian Spine J. 2021 Feb;15(1):89-96. doi: 10.31616/asj.2019.0260. Epub 2020 Jun 12. PubMed PMID: 32521948; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC7904492.
5. Towner JE, Li YI, Singla A, Moquin RR,Li YM. Retrospective Review of Revision Surgery After Image-guided Instrumented Spinal Surgery Compared With Traditional Instrumented Spinal Surgery. Clin Spine Surg. 2020 Feb 11.
6. Towner JE, Li YI, Pieters TA, Li YM. Descriptive Analysis of 1972 Cervical Corpectomy Patients and 30-Day Postoperative Outcomes. Int J Spine Surg. 2020 Jun;14(3):412-417. doi: 10.14444/7054. eCollection 2020 Jun. PubMed PMID: 32699765; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC7343259. 
7. Zhang JW, Li YI, Towner JE, Pieters TA, Li KZ, Al-Dhahir,MA, Childers F, Li YM. Sepsis and septic shock after craniotomy: Predicting a significant patient safety and quality outcome measure. PLOS One. Sept 17, 2020
8. Li YI, Ventura N, Towner JE, LiKZ, Roberts D, Li YM. Risk factors and associated complications with unplanned intubation in patients with craniotomy for brain tumor. J Clin Neurosci.  2020 Feb 5.
9. Li YM, Frisch R, Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Greeley S, Ledonio C. Comparative Effectiveness of Expandable versus Static Interbody Spacers via MIS LLIF: A 2-Year Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes Study. Global Spine Journal 2020. 
10. Piper K, Zou LL, Li DM, Underberg D, Towner J Chowdhry AK., Li YM. Surgical management and adjuvant therapy for patients with neurological deficits from vertebral hemangiomas. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2020 Jan 15;45(2):E99-E110. 
11. Liu X, Tian W, Kolar M, Johnson MD, Milano MT, Jiang HH, Lin S, Li D, Mohile NA, Li YM, Walter AK, Ekholm S, Wang HZ.  The correlation of fractional anisotropy parameters with Ki-67 index, and the clinical implication in grading of non-enhancing gliomas and neuronal-glial tumors.  Magn Reson Imaging. 2020 Jan;65:129-135.
12. Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Greeley S, Ledonio C, Li YM. Laterally Placed Expandable Interbody Spacers Improve Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes: A 1-Year Follow-up Study, Interdisciplinary Neurosurgery: Advanced Techniques and Case Management 2019
13. Towner JE, Li YI, Pieters TA, Schmidt T, Walter KA, Audre, Li YM. Descriptive Analysis of Cervical Corpectomy Outcomes from 2012 to 2015 ACS NSQIP Dataset. Global Spine Journal 2019.
14. Mahon BZ, Mead JA, Chernoff BL,SimsMH,  Garcea FE,  Prentiss5 E,  Belkhir R, Haber SJ, Gannon SB,  Erickson S, Wright KA, Schmidt5 MZ, Paulzak A, Milano VC, Paul DA,Foxx K,  Tivarus M,  Nadler JW,  Behr JM,  Smith SO, Li YM, Walter K,  Pilcher WH. Translational Brain Mapping at the University of Rochester Medical Center: Preserving the Mind Through Personalized Brain Mapping. J. Vis. Exp. (150), e59592, Aug 2019.
15. Li YM, Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Riggleman JR, et al. (2019) Laterally Placed Expandable Interbody Spacers with Adjustable Lordosis Improve Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes. J Spine S8:001. DOI: 10.4172/2165-7939.S8-001
16. Garcea FE, Almeida J, Sims MH, Nunno A, Meyers SP, Li YM, Walter K, Pilcher WH, Mahon BZ. Domain-Specific Diaschisis: Lesions to Parietal Action Areas Modulate Neural Responses to Tools in the Ventral Stream. Cereb Cortex. 2019 Jul 5;29(7):3168-3181.
17. Huang JF, Chen D, Sang CM, Zheng XQ, Lin JL, Lin Y, Ni WF, Wang XY, Li YM, Wu AM. Nomogram for Individualized Prediction and Prognostic Factors for Survival in Patients with Primary Spinal Chordoma: A Population-Based Longitudinal Cohort Study. World Neurosurg. 2019 May 1.
18. Piper K, Zou LL, Li DM, Underberg D, Towner J Chowdhry AK., Li YM. Surgical management and adjuvant therapy for patients with neurological deficits from vertebral hemangiomas. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2020 Jan 15;45(2):E99-E110. 
19. Liu X, Tian W, Kolar M, Johnson MD, Milano MT, Jiang HH, Lin S, Li D, Mohile NA, Li YM, Walter AK, Ekholm S, Wang HZ.  The correlation of fractional anisotropy parameters with Ki-67 index, and the clinical implication in grading of non-enhancing gliomas and neuronal-glial tumors.  Magn Reson Imaging. 2020 Jan;65:129-135.
20. Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Greeley S, Ledonio C, Li YM. Laterally Placed Expandable Interbody Spacers Improve Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes: A 1-Year Follow-up Study, Interdisciplinary Neurosurgery: Advanced Techniques and Case Management 2019
21. Towner JE, Li YI, Pieters TA, Schmidt T, Walter KA, Audre, Li YM. Descriptive Analysis of Cervical Corpectomy Outcomes from 2012 to 2015 ACS NSQIP Dataset. Global Spine Journal 2019.
22. Mahon BZ, Mead JA, Chernoff BL,SimsMH,  Garcea FE,  Prentiss5 E,  Belkhir R, Haber SJ, Gannon SB,  Erickson S, Wright KA, Schmidt5 MZ, Paulzak A, Milano VC, Paul DA,Foxx K,  Tivarus M,  Nadler JW,  Behr JM,  Smith SO, Li YM, Walter K,  Pilcher WH. Translational Brain Mapping at the University of Rochester Medical Center: Preserving the Mind Through Personalized Brain Mapping. J. Vis. Exp. (150), e59592, Aug 2019.
23. Li YM, Huang Z, Towner J, Li YI, Riggleman JR, et al. (2019) Laterally Placed Expandable Interbody Spacers with Adjustable Lordosis Improve Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes. J Spine S8:001. DOI: 10.4172/2165-7939.S8-001
24. Garcea FE, Almeida J, Sims MH, Nunno A, Meyers SP, Li YM, Walter K, Pilcher WH, Mahon BZ. Domain-Specific Diaschisis: Lesions to Parietal Action Areas Modulate Neural Responses to Tools in the Ventral Stream. Cereb Cortex. 2019 Jul 5;29(7):3168-3181.
25. Huang JF, Chen D, Sang CM, Zheng XQ, Lin JL, Lin Y, Ni WF, Wang XY, Li YM, Wu AM. Nomogram for Individualized Prediction and Prognostic Factors for Survival in Patients with Primary Spinal Chordoma: A Population-Based Longitudinal Cohort Study. World Neurosurg. 2019 May 1.
26. Pieters TA, Li YI, Towner JE, Schmidt T, Vates GE, Pilcher W, Li YM. Comparative Analysis of Decompression Versus Decompression and Fusion for Surgical Management of Lumbar Spondylolisthesis. World Neurosurg. 2019 Feb 19.
27. Wang L, LianB, LiYI, LiuX, Huang J and Li, YM. What is the advance of extent of resection in glioblastoma surgical treatment, a systematic review. Chinese Neurosurgical Journal, 2019:5-2
28. Nunno A, Li Y, Pieters TA, Towner JE, Schmidt T, Shi M, Walter K, Li YM. Risk Factors and Associated Complications of Symptomatic Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Craniotomy for Meningioma. World Neurosurg. 2019 Feb;122.
29. Chen D, Shao MM, Wang XY, Li YM, Wu AM. Current strategies of reduce the rate of dysphagia and dysphonia after anterior cervical spine surgery and role of corticosteroids. Ann Transl Med. 2018 Dec;6. 
30. Towner JE, Piper KF, Schoeniger LO, Qureshi SH, Li YM. Use of image-guided bone scalpel for resection of spine tumors: technical note. AME Case Rep. 2018 PMCID: PMC6286896. 
31. Nunno A, Johnson MD, Wu G, Li YM. Metastatic prostate cancer mimicking a subdural hematoma: A case report and literature review. J ClinNeurosci. 2018 Sep;55.
32. Chen D, Chen CH, Zhang LL, Lin ZK, Zheng JW, Phan K, Mobbs RJ, Lin Y, Ni WF, Wang XY, Li YM, Wu AM. Chondrosarcoma of the Osseous Spine Treated by Surgery With or Without Radiotherapy: A Propensity Score Matched and Grade/Stage-stratified Study. Clin Spine Surg. 2018 Jul;31(6):E310-E316. 
33. Wang PF, Wang TJ , Yang YK, Yao K,  Li Z, Li YM, Yan CX. The expression profile of PD-L1 and CD8 + lymphocyte in pituitary adenomas indicating for immunotherapy. J Neurooncol. 2018 Aug;139(1):89-95.  (Co-corresponding author).
34. Wang PF, Cai HQ, Zhang CB, Li YM, Liu X, Wan JH, Jiang T, Li SW, Yan CX. Molecular and clinical characterization of PTPN2 expression from RNA-seq data of 996 brain gliomas. J Neuroinflammation. 2018 May 15;15(1):145. 
35. Wu AM, Zhang K, Li XL, Cheng XF, Zhou TJ, Du L, Chen C, Tian HJ, Sun XJ, Zhao CQ, Li YM, Zhao J. The compression of L5 nerve root, single or double sites?-radiographic graded signs, intra-operative detect technique and clinical outcomes.Quant Imaging Med Surg. 2018 May;8(4):383-390. 
36. Piper K, DeAndrea-Lazarus I, Algattas H, Kimmell KT, Towner J, Li YM, et al. Risk Factors Associated with Readmission and Reoperation in Patients Undergoing Spine Surgery, World Neurosurgery2018;110, e627-e635, 
37. Cheng X, Zhang F, Zhang K, Sun X, Zhao C, Li H, Li YM, Zhao J.Effect of Single-Level Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion on Segmental and Overall Lumbar Lordosis in Patients with Lumbar Degenerative Disease.World Neurosurgery. 2018; 109:e244-e251.
38. Cheng X, Zhang G, Zhang L, Hu Y, Zhang K, Sun X, Zhao C, Li H, Li YM, Zhao J. Mesenchymal stem cells deliver exogenous miR-21 via exosomes to inhibit nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis and reduce intervertebral disc degeneration.J Cell Mol Med. 2018 Jan;22(1):261-276. 
39. Piper K, Algattas H, DeAndrea-Lazarus IA, Kimmell KT, Li YM, et al. Risk factors associated with venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing spine surgery. J Neurosurg Spine. 2017 Jan;26(1):90-96. 
40. Liu X, Tian W, Chen H, LoStracco TA, Zhang J, Li YM et al. Advanced Neuroimaging in the Evaluation of Spinal Cord Tumors and Tumor Mimics: Diffusion Tensor and Perfusion-Weighted Imaging. Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 2017 Apr;38(2):163-175.
41. Brown TJ, Brennan MC, Li YM, et al. Association of the Extent of Resection With Survival in Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Oncol. 2016 Nov 1;2(11):1460-1469.
42. Li YM, Suki D, Hess K, Sawaya R.  The influence of maximum safe resection of glioblastoma on survival in 1229 patients: Can we do better than gross-total resection? J Neurosurgery. Apr;124(4):977-88. 2016.
43. Hu M, Guan H, Lau CC, Terashima K, Jin Z, Cui L, Wang Y, Li G, Yao Y, Guo Y, Li YM, et al.  An update on the clinical diagnostic value of β-hCG and αFP for intracranial germ cell tumors. Eur J Med Res.Mar 12;21:10, 2016
44. Towner JE, Johnson MD, Li YM. Intraventricular Hemangiopericytoma: A Case Report and Literature Review. World Neurosurg. 2016 May89:728.e5-728.
45. Huang J, Li YM, Cheng Q, Vallera DA, Hall WA.A novel brain metastasis xenograft model for convection-enhanced delivery of targeted toxins via a micro-osmotic pump system enabled for real-time bioluminescence imaging. Mol Med Rep. Oct;12(4):5163-8, 2015.
46. Li YM, Rhines L, Clinical Outcomes of Sacral Chordoma Surgeries, Global Spine Journal 5 (S 01), A220, 2015.
47. Hanna B, Li YM, Beutler T, Goyal P, Hall WA. Xanthomatoushypophysitis. J Clin Neurosci. Jul;22(7):1091-7. 2015 
48. Li YM,  Rhines L, Clinical Outcomes of 36 Sacral Chordoma Surgeries. Spine J. Nov 14 (11): S183. 2014
49. Li YM, Vallera DA, Hall WA.  Diphtheria toxin-based immunotoxin therapy for brain tumors (with Journal Cover Page). J Neurooncol, Sep;114(2):155-64. 2013.
50. Huang J, Li YM, Massague J, Vallera DA, Hall WA.  A novel brain metastasis xenograft model for convection-enhanced delivery of targeted toxins via a micro-osmotic pump system enabled for real-time bioluminescence imaging. International Journal of Cancer, 109(2):229-38. PMID: 22696210.2013
51. Cantu RC, Li YM, Abdulhamid M, Chin LS. Return to play after cervical spine injury in sports. Curr Sports Med Rep.2013Jan;12(1):14-7. 
52. Li YM, Blaskiewicz D, Hall WA. Staphylococcus Lugdunensis Intracranial Abscess caused by Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Related Infection in a Hydranencephaly patient. World Neurosurgery,2013 Jan; 12: S1878-8750(13)00107-1.
53. Huang J, Li YM, Massague J, Vallera DA, Hall WA.  Convection enhanced delivery of the bispecific targeted toxin DTATEGF in a mouse xenograft model of a human metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. JNeurooncol, 2012 Sep;109(2):229-38.
54. TianW, HanX, XuY, Duggineni S, Luo G, Li YM, Han X, Huang Z, An J. Structure-based discovery of a novel inhibitor targeting the β-catenin/Tcf4 interaction. Biochemistry. 2012 Feb 51(2):724-31. 
55. Li YM, Hall WA.  Cell Surface Receptors in Malignant Glioma. Neurosurgery. 2011Oct;69(4):980-94; discussion 994.
56. Schanker BD, Walcott BP, Nahed BV, Kahle KT, Li YM,Coumans JV.Familial Chiari malformation: case seriesNeurosurg Focus. 2011Sep;31(3):E1.
57. Abdulhamid M, Li YM, Hall WA. Spontaneous Acute Subdural Hematoma as the Initial Manifestation of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. JNeurooncol, 2011Feb;101(3):513-6.
58. Li YM, Hall WA.  Targeted Toxins in Brain Tumor Therapy, Toxins 2010 Nov;2(11):2645-62.
59. Li Y, Zou L, Li Q, Haibe-Kains B, Tian R, Li YM, Desmedt C, Sotiriou C, Szallasi Z, Iglehart JD, Richardson AL, Wang ZC.Amplification of LAPTM4B and YWHAZ contributes to chemotherapy resistance and recurrence of cancer. Nature Medicine 2010 Feb;16(2):214-8. 
60. Jiang J, Xia XB, Xu HZ, Xiong Y, Song WT, Xiong SQ, Li YM.Inhibition of retinal neovascularization by gene transfer of small interfering RNA targeting HIF-1alpha and VEGF.J Cell Physiol. 2009 Jan;218(1):66-74.
61. Xia XB, Xiong SQ, Xu HZ, Jiang J, Li YM.Suppression of retinalneovascularization by shRNA targeting HIF-1alpha.Curr Eye Res. 2008Oct;33(10):892-902.
62. Li YM, Zhou BP, Jiong D, Pan Y, Hung MC. PI-3K/Akt induced HIF-1 Activation Independent of Hypoxia in HER2 Overexpressing Cell. Cancer Research 2005 Apr 15; 65(8):3257-63.
63. Ding Q, Xia W, Liu JC, Yang JY, Lee DF, Xia J, Bartholomeusz G, Li YM,et al. Erk associates with and primes GSK-3beta for its inactivation resulting in upregulation of beta-catenin. Molecular Cell. 2005 Jul 22;19(2):159-70.
64. Li Z, Ding Q, Li YM,Miller SA, Abbruzzese JL, Hung MC. Suppression of pancreatic tumor progression by systemic delivery of a pancreatic-cancer-specific promoter driven Bik mutant. Cancer Letter. 2005 Jun 10.
65. Li YM, Pan Y, Wei Y, Cheng X, Zhou BP, Tan M, Xia W, Zhou X, Hortobagyi GN, Yu D, and Hung MC. Up-regulate chemokine receptor CXCR4 is essential for HER2-mediated cancer lung metastasis, Cancer Cell. 2004 Nov; 6(5):459-69. Accompanied by Preview: A new key in cancer metastasis. Cancer Cell. 2004 Nov;6(5):429-30. Reviewed by Lancet 2005 Mar 16;365(9464):1006-7. Nature Review Cancer Highlights 2005 Jan,5(1):1
66. Zhou BP, Deng J, Xia W, Xu J,Li YM, Gunduz M, Hung MC. Dual regulation of Snail by GSK-3beta-mediated phosphorylation in control of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Nature Cell Biology. 2004 Oct; 6(10):931-40.
67. Chen JS, Liu JC, Shen L, Rau KM, Kuo HP, Li YM, Shi D, Lee YC, Chang KJ, Hung MC. Cancer-specific activation of the survivin promoter and its potential use in gene therapy. Cancer Gene Therapy. Nov;11 (11):740-7.
68. Makino K, Day CP, Wang SC, Li YM, and Hung MC. Upregulation of IKKα/IKKβ by Integrin Linked Kinase is Required for neu Oncogene-induced NF-κB Anti-apoptotic Pathway. Oncogene. 2004 May 6; 23(21): 3883-7
69. Li YM, Wen Y, Zhou BP, Kuo HP, Ding Q, Hung MC. Enhanced Anti-tumor effect by bik mutant. Cancer Research. 2003 Nov 15; 63(22): 7630-3.
70. Li YM, Wen Y, Ding QQ, Zhou BP, Hung MC.Mutant proapoptotic Bik enhances cancer killing effect.Molecular Therapy. 2003 May; 7(5), S17.
71. Zhou B, Li YM and Hung MC. HER-2/Neu Signaling and Therapeutic Approaches in Breast Cancer. Breast Disease. 2002, 15, 13-24.
72. Deng J, Miller SA, Wang H, Xia W, Wen Y, Zhou B, Li YM, Lin SY, Hung MC. Fas downregulation by β-catenin inhibition of NF-κB. Cancer Cell. 2002 Oct; 2(4): 323-34.
73. Winbow VM, Li Y, Nguyen B, Mills SL, O’Brien, J. Phosphorylation of connexins 35 and 34.7 by protein kinase A. IVOS 2001, 42(4), 1038-B351.
74. Li W, He Z, Li Y, Yanoff M. Vascular endothelial growth factor regulates both apoptosis and angiogenesis of choriocapillaris endothelial cells. Microvascular Research. 2000 Mar; 59(2): 286-9. 
75. Li Y, Pang GX, Zhan SH, et al. The Apoptosis and Proliferation after Photorefractive Keratectomy.Chinese Journal of Ophthalmology, 1999 Jan; 35 (1): 29-32
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Dr. Karam Moon, MD is a board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of spine disorders, nerve conditions, and chronic pain. With extensive expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery and advanced neurosurgical techniques, Dr. Moon works closely with interventional pain management specialists to provide personalized, multidisciplinary care that helps patients reduce pain, restore function, and improve their quality of life.

Dr. Moon serves as the Managing Partner at Southwest Associates of Neurosurgery and is an Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. He completed both his Neurosurgery Residency and Endovascular Neurosurgery Fellowship at the internationally renowned Barrow Neurological Institute. A respected clinician, educator, and researcher, Dr. Moon has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care using the latest advances in spine and neurosurgical treatment.

Timothy Burke, MD, FAANS, is a board-certified neurosurgeon at the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida, providing neurosurgical care to people in Delray Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. 

Dr. Burke earned his medical degree from the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C. He excelled in the program and was awarded membership into the prestigious medical honor society Alpha Omega Alpha.

Dr. Burke has received extensive training in various neurosurgical procedures. He specializes in cranial base surgery, stereotactic surgery, and neuro-oncology. Dr. Burke also performs more complex operations, including microvascular decompression and removal of brain and spine tumors.

Dr. Burke holds membership in several professional organizations, including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.

He’s also passionate about helping the next generation of medical professionals. In fact, Dr. Burke formerly served as the course director for Virtual Reality Simulation in Neurosurgical Training at SAIL (Surgical Advancement through Innovation and Learning Center) and as an associate professor of neurological surgery at George Washington University.

Ronald L. Young II, MD, is a board-certified neurosurgeon at the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida, providing neurolosurgical care to people at locations in Delray Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Dr. Young earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Oklahoma in Norman. Then, he enrolled at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in Oklahoma City, earning his medical degree. 

Dr. Young brings more than 30 years of experience to the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida. He manages various neurological problems but specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors and hydrocephalus. Patients also seek Dr. Young’s expertise in minimally invasive brain and spinal cord tumor surgery.

Dr. Young has had a rewarding career. He served in various positions before moving to South Florida, including chief of pediatric neurosurgery and chair of cooperative brain tumor conference at Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine in Carmel, Indiana. 

Dr. Young was also an assistant professor in the division of pediatric surgery, department of neurosurgery at the University of Texas Health (UTHealth) - Houston.

Outside the office, Dr. Young enjoys attending national and international conferences and spending time with his wife and four children. He’s also an athlete active in karate, downhill skiing, road biking, and tennis.

Dr. Young welcomes any individual or family seeking neurosurgery care to the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida today.

Silver Spine & Neurological Center was established by Dr. M. Viktor Silver after 20 years in practice with interventional pain management, minimally invasive and outpatient spine surgeries.

Dr. Silver completed fellowship training in the management of Complex Spinal diseases, including minimally invasive spine surgery, disc replacement and spinal injections.

With many years of experience in challenging cases, areas of special interest to Dr. Silver are the management of spinal conditions like sciatica, spinal stenosis, neck and back pain using the latest techniques in spinal injections, minimally invasive spinal surgery, sacroiliac joint fusions, spine cord stimulation and same-day surgery.

The primary objective is to understand the patient’s symptoms and signs in the context of a comprehensive diagnosis, to then lay the groundwork for treatment. The patient needs to know all the options for treatment, both surgically and non-surgically, including physical therapy,spinal injections and outpatient spine surgery.

Dr. Pradeep K Narotam is an internationally renowned Neurosurgery Specialist with more than 25 years of diverse experience in brain & spine surgery. Dr. Narotam is board certified by College of Medicine of South Africa (FCS 1993) for which he was awarded the Krynauw Medal for exceptional performance, the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC 1997), the American College of Surgeons (FACS 2004), and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (FAANS). Dr. Narotam has been awarded a PhD in Health Services from Walden University, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dr Narotam has more than 30 Publications to his credit and has made almost 90 scientific presentations. He has delivered more than 20 lectures in the field of Neurosurgery & critical care at various conferences, symposia, institutes and meetings. Neurosurgery & Spine provides comprehensive neurosurgical care to residents of Pinellas County at HCA Northside Hospital, Pasadena Hospital & Largo Medical Center

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Compassionate, personalized care is a cornerstone of service at Nova Neuroscience, a premier neurosurgery practice in Vienna and Woodbridge, Virginia. Led by board-certified neurosurgeon Bülent Yapicilar, MD, the team delivers the highest level of neurosurgical care to patients through their individualized treatment plans and unparalleled expertise. 

The brain is the most complex organ in the body. Suffering even the slightest damage or complication to the brain and spine can impact the functioning of the rest of the body or neurological processing system. 

Brain tumors range in severity and seriousness. Dr. Yapicilar can perform advanced procedures and create precise treatment plans for patients diagnosed with brain tumors, such as meningiomas and glioblastomas, and ensure they receive the attentive follow-up care they need. At Nova Neuroscience, patients are also treated for conditions requiring vascular surgery, such as vascular malformations and brain aneurysms. 

As a fellowship-trained physician in skull base and vascular neurosurgery, Dr. Yapicilar offers expertise in a highly specialized field. Skull base surgery demands exceptional skills as it uses  surgery to diagnose and treat tumors on the underside of the brain, at the base of the skull, and in the upper part of the spine. 

Nova Neuroscience is a small practice, which allows them to fully dedicate their time and energy to each patient, and ensure patients feel well-informed and cared for throughout their treatment.

For expert neurosurgical care and treatment, call Nova Neuroscience today, or book your appointment online.  

 

Dr. Alexis A. Morell is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon and neurointensivist who has joined the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida.  He brings a unique dual background in neurosurgical oncology and neurocritical care, offering a comprehensive approach to complex neurological conditions. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Morell serves a diverse patient population, including international patients seeking advanced neurosurgical care in South Florida.

With a foundation in academic neurosurgery and experience at major U.S. training centers, Dr. Morell provides a combination of clinical precision and compassionate care. His approach blends cutting-edge surgical techniques with a deep commitment to patient advocacy and recovery.

Dr. Morell is proud to serve the Palm Beach County and greater South Florida community. His practice at the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida combines advanced surgical technology with compassionate, individualized care. From initial consultation through recovery, he is dedicated to guiding patients and families through some of the most complex decisions in medicine.   His team provides a concierge-style experience for all patients, supporting both local and international individuals seeking world-class neurosurgical care in South Florida. Unlike traditional hospital systems, Dr. Morell’s practice is streamlined, personalized, and patient-first. You’ll get direct access, shorter wait times, and a true partner in your health—whether you're seeking a second opinion, long-term management, or urgent neurosurgical care.

Take the next step with confidence. Dr. Morell and his team are here to provide expert answers, thoughtful planning, and world-class care. Call today to schedule your consultation at the Brain and Spine Center of South Florida in Delray Beach.

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Education & Training

• Medical Degree – National University of Rosario, Argentina
• Neurosurgery Residency – Completed in a rigorous academic setting with honors
• Fellowship Training – Specialized in Neurocritical Care and Neurosurgical Oncology in top U.S. institutions

Dr. Morell is recognized for his academic excellence and has been involved in national observership and leadership programs in neurosurgery.

Areas of Expertise: His multidisciplinary care model ensures seamless collaboration with neurologists, oncologists, and rehabilitation teams.

• Brain Tumor Surgery – Primary and metastatic brain tumors, including awake craniotomies and minimally invasive techniques
• Traumatic Brain Injury – Emergency neurosurgical care for cranial and spinal trauma
• Neurocritical Care – Specialized intensive care for patients with critical neurological conditions
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery – Targeted interventions for spine pathologies
• Complex Cranial Procedures – Including vascular and skull base surgeries

Clinical Philosophy: Dr. Morell believes that every patient deserves personalized, evidence-based care. He is committed to providing:

• Clear, honest communication with patients and families
• Multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure the best outcomes
• Long-term care planning, including rehabilitation and follow-up
• Culturally sensitive care, supporting patients from diverse backgrounds

Professional Credentials

• Board-Certified in Neurocritical Care
• Member of leading U.S. neurosurgical and critical care societies
• Faculty experience and frequent lecturer at academic and professional conferences
• Over 60 published articles and case studies in neurosurgery and critical care

Jeff Pan, MD, is a board-certified neurosurgeon with his own private practice in Edison, New Jersey. He brings over 17 years of experience to the communities of Middlesex County and the surrounding areas. 

Prior to entering private practice, Dr. Pan completed his undergraduate studies, graduating Cum Laude, from the State University of New York (SUNY) Buffalo, where he majored in biophysics. Thereafter, he went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine from SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, before completing his general surgery internship at the same institution. While at SUNY Downstate, he also completed a neurosurgery residency, where he served as chief resident in his final year. Then, in 2004 Dr. Pan completed a fellowship in complex spine surgery at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

As a respected member of the medical community, Dr. Pan has contributed to numerous research projects, presentations, and publications. He also maintains professional affiliations with several professional organizations, including the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and the Joint Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves. Dr. Pan is board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgeons.

Dr. Kuznits is a board-certified neurosurgeon, who specializes in cranial and spinal surgeries to treat neoplastic (tumor related), degenerative, infectious, and trauma-related conditions.

Dr. Kuznits received his undergraduate degree in Biological Basis of Behavior from the University of Pennsylvania. He then went on to medical school at Temple University, and completed his neurosurgery internship and residency training at Northwestern University.

A native of the Philadelphia area, Dr. Kuznits has been providing neurosurgical care to the residents of Philadelphia’s Western Suburbs, from the Main Line to Berks County, since 2000. Upon completing his training, he joined the Department of Neurosurgery at Main Line Health.

In 2008, Dr. Kuznits established Neurosurgical Care, a practice dedicated to providing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for treating spinal and cranial conditions.

He performs complex revision surgery for cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacroiliac conditions, and employs minimally invasive approaches whenever possible and appropriate. He performs CyberKnife® radiosurgery, and image-guided, frameless stereotactic surgery to treat benign and malignant brain tumors, and neuro-modulation procedures to treat neuropathic pain.

Dr. Kuznits has offices in Collegeville and Exton, and performs surgery at Paoli, Phoenixville, and Pottstown Hospitals.

For more information on the wide range of procedures, both surgical and nonsurgical, performed at Dr. Kuznits’ practice, please peruse our website, or contact our offices today. If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kuznits, we will be happy to help you set up an appointment. Dr. Kuznits looks forward to helping you get back to what you enjoy doing.