Another of Dr. Kershenovich's specialties is in the treatment of hydrocephalus. In selected patients, Dr. Kershenovich utilizes an endoscopic approach to draining fluid from the brain. This alternative bypasses the blockage and detours the fluid flow. As a result, it eliminates the need placing foreign material (shunt) in the brain; which results in a shorter recover and fewer surgical risks.

Treatment of epilepsy is another focus of the pediatric neurosurgery program. Working with Geisinger's team of epilepsy experts in pediatric neurology, psychology, neuroradiology, Dr. Kershenovich evaluates children with epilepsy to determine if surgery is the best treatment option.

"Epilepsy usually begins in childhood when uncontrolled seizures can have a significant effect on a child's developmental potential as well the ability to enjoy childhood," explained Dr. Kershenovich. "Surgery effectively controls seizures in two-thirds of selected patients and usually dramatically improves a child with epilepsy's quality of life."In addition to his work with children, Dr. Kershenovich is a member of Geisinger's adult epilepsy team, and is skilled at performing open craniotomy surgeries. He also performs deep brain stimulation, a neurosurgical treatment that stimulates the brain with mild electrical signals to improve symptoms for a number of conditions, such as essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, intractable depression, obsessive-compulsive disease and dystonia.

"Being able to surgically improve a neurological condition to allow a patient the chance to enjoy life is a very special privilege," he said.

Source: Geisinger's Janet Weis Children's Hospital