Cutting edge: A Neurosurgery Student Blog

Cutting edge: A Neurosurgery Student Blog

By Siddarth | Course: ENGL2201

Entry 1: About Me - Why Neurosurgery? 

#neurosurgery #studentjourney #medicine #psychology

Hello! My name is Siddarth Kuchimanchi, and I’m a neuroscience and psychology student on the pre-med track with plans to pursue neurosurgery. Ever since high school, I’ve been drawn to the idea of surgery, the direct, hands-on way it allows you to see the body’s inner systems and use skill and focus to restore them. Out of all the organs, the brain has always fascinated me the most. It is both fragile and powerful, shaping who we are while controlling every heartbeat, thought, and motion. The more I learn about it, the more I feel that neurosurgery is not just a medical specialty but a calling that combines curiosity, patience, and precision.

This blog is written for students interested in neuroscience or medicine, aspiring surgeons, and anyone curious about the future of brain science. My purpose is to connect my personal journey as a neuroscience/psychology double major with broader topics about what defines modern neurosurgery, not just its technologies, but its ethics. I want this blog to show that the path to becoming a surgeon is more than academics; it’s about developing empathy, resilience, and discipline along the way.

My academic path so far has tested all of those qualities. Long nights memorizing neural pathways, tackling difficult neuroscience exams, and balancing labs with clinical shadowing have taught me the importance of perseverance. Neurosurgery requires steady focus and humility—the understanding that precision takes time and that every error is an opportunity to improve. To me, medicine is where science meets compassion: it challenges you to think deeply while reminding you that every discovery, every patient, and every surgery has a human story behind it.

Through Cutting Edge: A Neurosurgery Student Blog, I’ll explore both the science and the humanity of this field:

• The latest neurosurgical innovations, like AI-assisted robotics and imaging systems.

• The human side of surgery, where trust and empathy matter as much as technique.

• Career guidance for students preparing for medical school or considering neuroscience.

My goal is to show that becoming a neurosurgeon isn’t simply about mastering anatomy—it’s about learning patience, building character, and discovering how precision and compassion can coexist in every procedure.

Alt text: MRI brain scan with highlighted neural fiber tracts, illustrating the complexity of brain anatomy relevant to neurosurgery

Caption: Every pathway tells a story, understanding these connections is what makes neurosurgery so precise and fascinating. 

Entry 2: Robots in the OR – How Technology Is Transforming Neurosurgery

#robotics #innovation #neurosurgery #technology

Robotic-assisted neurosurgery used to feel like something out of a sci-fi movie, but today it’s becoming a real game-changer in the operating room. Robots aren’t taking over surgeons, they’re tools that extend what humans can do. They help make procedures more precise, reduce surgeon fatigue, and allow for smaller, less invasive incisions, which means patients often recover faster and face fewer complications. In many ways, these innovations are expanding what neurosurgeons can accomplish.

One example of this progress is the ROSA robot, which allows surgeons to perform incredibly precise procedures with millimeter-level accuracy. ROSA can perform deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedures with millimeter accuracy, which is critical for treating movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and certain types of epilepsy. The surgeon is still in full control, carefully guiding electrodes through the brain’s complex structures with the help of real-time imaging and mapping software. Impressively, the robot can even correct for small hand tremors, protecting delicate tissues in ways that would be almost impossible with just human hands.

Beyond neuromodulation, robotics is improving vascular and spinal procedures. At the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Sanjay Misra and his team use robotic systems to place stents, catheters, and other devices with unprecedented accuracy. These tools not only enhance surgical outcomes but also reduce radiation exposure for both patients and surgeons, showing how technology is reshaping the concept of surgical precision. Precision is no longer just a measure of steady hands, it is now a combination of human skill boosted by highly reliable, computer-guided systems.

Bringing robots into the operating room also brings big questions. How will medical schools train surgeons for a future where learning to code or operate advanced robotic systems might be just as important as mastering sutures? Will future neurosurgeons need to understand AI and data analysis as well as they know anatomy? These questions show just how fast the field is changing and how surgeons will need to blend technical skill with flexibility and sharp problem-solving to keep up.

What excites me most about neurosurgery is seeing biology and technology come together in the operating room. Every robotic-assisted procedure is a mix of science, engineering, and human judgment, showing how innovation can truly enhance a surgeon’s skills. I love imagining a future where surgeons and robots work side by side to take on the most complex brain conditions, making procedures both safer and more precise.

Video 1: https://youtu.be/heMR6HM7b7Y?si=2VlrL7ArvWmky3Lt 

Video summary: 

• While robotics has been used for years in specialties like general surgery, cardiology, and orthopedics, it is newer for brain and spine surgeries due to the specialized environment required for minimally invasive nervous system procedures
• In March 2022, Lee Health became the first health system in Southwest Florida to perform a Neurosurgical robotic procedure
• Neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Fry highlights that robotics allows the surgeon to leave a digital footprint. This data, combined with analytics, can drive augmented intelligence to shape physician behavior and reduce variation in spine or brain surgery.
• The technology allows for minimally invasive approaches through incisions as small as 2 millimeters
• Early results show that patients undergoing robotic procedures are experiencing: A reduced length of stay and less post operative pain.

Video 2: https://youtu.be/wl2H0Lpw3hw?si=2zh0m6EkUYSbWuCp 

Video summary: 

• This short video shows how robots are already being used in surgical settings at Mayo Clinic.
• It features an interview with Dr. Sanjay Misra, and interventional radiologist, who explains that these robotic systems allow more prevision in placing stents and other devices. 
• This video emphasizes that these robots don't act autonomously, they are tools controlled by surgeons to improve their reach, accuracy and outcomes. 

Article:

Singh, R., Wang, K., Qureshi, M. B., Rangel, I. C., Brown, N. J., Shahrestani, S., Gottfried, O. N., Patel, N. P., & Bydon, M. (2022, August 19). Robotics in neurosurgery: Current prevalence and future directions. Surgical neurology international. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9479589/ 

Caption: Neurosurgeon performing a procedure with robotic assistance and real-time imaging, showing the precision and technology driving modern  brain spine surgery. 

Alt Text: Two neurosurgeons in an operating room use robotic tools and computer-guided imaging during a brain and spine procedure.

Entry 3: The Human Side of Neurosurgery - Trust and Communication

#patientcare #communication #neurosurgery #medicine

While neurosurgery often makes headlines for its advanced technology and complex procedures, the true heart of the field lies in human connection. Every patient walking into a neurosurgeon’s office is facing a situation that can change their life, sometimes permanently. Whether it’s a diagnosis like a brain tumor, a spinal injury, or a vascular abnormality, patients are often scared and uncertain about what comes next. In those moments, communication becomes just as important as surgical precision.

Neurosurgeons have to translate incredibly complex information, about brain function, risks, and recovery, into language patients and their families can understand. It’s not just about explaining the science; it’s about helping people feel seen and supported. A calm tone, eye contact, and patience can mean the difference between fear and reassurance. Even before surgery begins, a surgeon’s words can begin the healing process by building trust and understanding.

The field of neurosurgery demands not only technical expertise but emotional intelligence. Surgeons often meet patients at their most vulnerable, and how they respond in those moments can define the entire experience. I’ve noticed this even while shadowing in clinical environments, patients remember how doctors make them feel more than the technical details of a diagnosis. A good surgeon treats the disease, but a great surgeon treats the person who has it.

The communication doesn’t stop once surgery is over. Post-operative care, follow-ups, and updates on progress all rely on empathy and teamwork. Neurosurgeons often work closely with nurses, therapists, and family members to ensure that recovery isn’t just physical but emotional as well. Sometimes, this means celebrating small victories like a patient regaining movement or speech, moments that remind doctors why they chose this path in the first place.

For me, this human side of neurosurgery is one of the most inspiring aspects of the field. It shows that medicine is not only a science but also an art. The tools, robotics, and imaging may evolve over time, but compassion will always be the foundation of patient care. As I prepare for medical school, I’m learning that success in neurosurgery isn’t just measured in outcomes or precision—it’s measured in trust, empathy, and the ability to help people face fear with hope.

Video 1: https://youtu.be/Gf7SCSkexWY?si=vru2ZVpOsjIDykRb

Video summary: 

• This video features Dr. Henry Marsh, a retired neurosurgeon, discussing the "painful lessons" he learned throughout his career regarding medical error, communication, and consent.
• He outlines two core questions he aims to address: How to minimize mistakes and avoidable harm to patients and How to establish trust with patients and their families to avoid trouble if (or when) things go wrong
• Dr. Marsh emphasizes that medical danger is often avoidable, a lesson he connects to the success of aviation safety, which is based on learning from failure. He says that highly skilled surgeons are still prone to terrible mistakes.
• Dr. Marsh stresses that true teamwork is about constructive disagreement and helpful, not competitive, colleagues. 
• Dr. Marsh explains that most bad practice cases don’t actually stem from medical mistakes, they happen because of poor communication between doctors and patients.

Video 2: https://youtu.be/bzan-qFssUI?si=KM881rsdOmhxskLJ

Video summary:

• This video features Dr. Paresh Doshi, the Director of the Neurosurgery & Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery department at the Jaslok Hospital and Research Center in Mumbai, India, discussing his program's work, core values, and patient care philosophy.
• The center focuses heavily on functional neurosurgery (90% of their work), treating conditions such as Parkinson's, other movement disorders, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders (depression, OCD), various types of pain (trigeminal neuralgia, migraine, cancer pain), and Alzheimer's disease 
• Human Care: The team prioritizes making the patient's experience as comfortable as possible through pre-visit communication and detailed preoperative discussions. This process helps alleviate anxiety and ensures the patient's cooperation during surgery. 
• Patient Safety: They ensure the highest level of patient safety, with procedures meeting or exceeding all international standards, and strict scrutiny by the scientific and ethics committee
• Innovation: The center has been a pioneer in neurological surgery, including being the first center to offer:

Article: 

Axelrod, D., & Goold, S. (n.d.). Maintaining Trust in the surgeon-patient relationship: Challenges for the new millennium | surgery | jama surgery | jama network. JAMA. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/fullarticle/390488

Alt text: Two doctors reviewing a brain scan on a computer monitor while a patient undergoes an MRI in the background.

Caption: Neurosurgery is not just about science and precision. it’s also about teamwork, empathy, and supporting patients through every step of care.

Entry 4: Advice for Students Interested in Neuroscience and Medicine 

#career #students #medicine #neuroscience

As a student majoring in both neuroscience and psychology while preparing for medical school, I’ve learned a lot about balancing curiosity, challenge, and purpose. The path toward medicine, especially neurosurgery, is not a sprint; it’s a long and demanding journey that tests patience, resilience, and self-belief. When I first started taking courses like biology, chemistry, and physics, I quickly realized that success wasn’t about natural talent but about persistence. There were weeks when concepts didn’t click right away, and it was tempting to feel defeated. But over time, I discovered that small, consistent effort pays off far more than trying to master everything at once. Patience with yourself is one of the most important tools you can have in this field.

Another lesson I’ve learned is to stay curious. Neuroscience is one of the fastest-evolving scientific fields, where every year brings new insights into how the brain works, from mapping neural connections to understanding the mind-body connection in behavior and disease. It’s easy to get lost in memorization, but true understanding comes when you let curiosity guide your learning. When I began to see how topics from different classes overlapped (like how neurotransmitters affect both movement and emotion) I realized that curiosity builds long lasting knowledge.

Equally important is finding community. This journey can be isolating at times, but connecting with others makes a huge difference. Whether it’s seeking help from professors, joining study groups, or talking to mentors already in medicine, having support can keep you grounded and motivated. Everyone in this field has struggled at some point, and sharing those experiences makes the process feel more human.

Finally, it’s important to remember the bigger picture. Grades and test scores matter, but they aren’t the whole story. At the heart of medicine is a desire to help others, to heal, comfort, and make an impact through compassion and knowledge. Neurosurgery, in particular, combines the technical challenge of precision with the emotional challenge of dealing with patients and families facing life-changing diagnoses. Choosing this path isn’t just about fascination with the brain, it’s about dedicating yourself to a lifelong process of learning, growth, and service.

For students just starting out, my biggest advice is this: never lose sight of why you chose this path. Let that motivation carry you through the toughest courses, the longest nights, and the hardest exams. The journey may be long, but the purpose behind it makes it deeply meaningful.

Video 1: https://youtu.be/vkuwRy6qVIQ?si=WXFZqgv0nTj4K3uF

Video summary:

• This video is a webinar from the Quad Education Group titled "Pre-Med Advice From a Harvard Grad: Tips to Stand Out," featuring admissions consultant Jennifer White, a Harvard graduate, and Quad Education team member Halle Caldwell.
• Pre-Med is a Track, Not a Major The term "Pre-Med" is a track of undergraduate study designed to prepare a student for medical school, not an actual major field of study on the common application
• Core Coursework The track requires excelling in a core of courses including chemistry, biology, and physics, to build the foundational knowledge needed for the MCAT exam 
• Strategic Major Choice While 58% of medical school applicants major in Biological Sciences, the acceptance rates are relatively similar across all major fields (low to mid-40s)
• When choosing an undergraduate institution, students should focus on the environment where they will excel to be competitive for top medical schools, not just the "best" school they can get into 
• Show Your Character: Extracurriculars do not have to be exclusively STEM-focused; they should demonstrate dedication, leadership, and passion in diverse areas.

Video 2: https://youtu.be/Qy6rjptJMK0?si=WAF-RmeIMQ2kJghK

Video summary: 

• The video, titled "Studying as a Pre-medical Student | Neurology Resident Advice," features a neurology resident who shares his most impactful study tip for pre-medical students.
• Educational materials like textbooks and PowerPoints build a foundational understanding before introducing more complex details.
• Check for Comprehension: As you read, you should "subconsciously ask yourself, 'do you understand what this actually means?'" This process allows you to pose more questions and dive deeper into the information.
• This is important in basic science courses (like organic chemistry or biology) because topics build on each other. Not understanding a simple concept will "bite you down the line" when more detailed, complex topics come into play

Article: 

Tieniber, A. D., & Readdy, W. J. (2016, July). Remodeling Neuroscience Education in medical student training: How early exposure and mentorship are promoting student interest in neurology and Neurosurgery. Neural regeneration research. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4994440/?utm_source

Caption: Students examine a brain model during a lab session, representing curiosity, collaboration, and the dedication needed to pursue neuroscience and medicine.

Alt Text: Two students sit at a lab table studying a model of the human brain together, symbolizing curiosity and teamwork in learning neuroscience.

Entry 5: The Ethics of Innovation in Neurosurgery

#ethics #innovation #neurosurgery #AI

As technology keeps advancing, the ethical questions in medicine are becoming harder to ignore. How much should we really rely on machines to make decisions for patients? Should AI ever be trusted to predict how a surgery will turn out, or even recommend treatment options? In neurosurgery, these aren’t just abstract ideas; they’re real, pressing issues. Lives are on the line, and every new tool or innovation comes with both incredible possibilities and serious responsibilities.

Neurosurgery is a place where human judgment and machine precision come together in fascinating and sometimes challenging ways. Today’s algorithms can look at patient scans and predict how a brain tumor might grow, or spot patterns that even the most experienced surgeons could miss. These tools offer the promise of earlier interventions, more accurate diagnoses, and better outcomes. But they also bring serious ethical questions. Patient information is deeply personal, and using it to train AI requires clear consent and strong safeguards to protect privacy. It’s a careful balancing act, taking full advantage of technology while making sure trust and patient rights are never compromised.

Even when robotic systems assist in the operating room, the responsibility for each decision ultimately remains with the surgeon. The machines may enhance precision, reduce fatigue, or allow for minimally invasive procedures, but they cannot replace human judgment, empathy, or accountability. This means that as automation in neurosurgery increases, so too does the need for transparency and ethics. Surgeons must be able to explain how technology informs their decisions, anticipate potential errors, and prioritize patient welfare above all else.

As I continue learning about neurosurgery, it has become clear that ethics is not a side topic, it is the backbone of medical practice. True progress in medicine cannot be measured solely by technological advancement. A surgical robot or predictive AI is impressive, but the real success lies in how these innovations serve patients, honor their choices, and uphold human dignity. Medicine, at its core, is about caring for people, not just perfecting procedures.

Looking forward, I am inspired by the idea that the most meaningful innovations will advance both technology and humanity together. Neurosurgery is a field where the highest skill meets the highest responsibility, and ethical awareness ensures that progress is not only powerful but also human. In the end, our challenge is to push medicine forward in a way that advances science while truly caring for the people it’s meant to help.

Video 1: https://youtu.be/J85AWOd8fhs?si=pKFftuQy84MRWmMU

Video summary: 

• This video, presented by neurosurgeon Marike Broekman, discusses the ethical implications of using AI in neurosurgery.
• He talks about 3 main pillars for ethical reflection: 
• Collection and Privacy: This involves ensuring patients give informed consent for their sensitive data to be collected and used. A key risk is that collected data could be used for unintended purposes, such as denying insurance
• Ownership and Storage: It is currently unclear who owns a patient's data (the patient, the hospital, or the doctor). Clear rules need to be established regarding data ownership and the specific time period for which various types of data will be stored.
• As robotic surgery and AI algorithms become more prevalent, the question of responsibility arises, who is to blame if an error or complication occurs: the robot, the surgeon, the manufacturer, or the programmer?

Video 2: https://youtu.be/Cz5AQs4WoA0?si=wFPz9BBduWu6Z-EP

Video summary: 

• This video, "The Ethics of AI in Neurosurgery: Who’s Responsible When the Robot Makes a Mistake?" explores how quickly AI is becoming part of neurosurgery and the serious ethical questions this raises
• AI is already here: AI is moving beyond assistance to actively deciding, guiding, and replacing human tasks in neurosurgery, such as diagnosing metastatic brain cancer with high accuracy and sorting surgical candidates
• AI won’t replace neurosurgeons, but it will change what they do. Future surgeons will need to understand algorithms and, just as importantly, have the judgement to question or override the machine, because in the end, the patient’s chart has their name.

Article: 

Khan, M. M., Scalia, G., Shah, N., Umana, G. E., Chavda, V., & Chaurasia, B. (2025, February). Ethical concerns of AI in neurosurgery: A systematic review. Brain and behavior. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11814476/?utm_source

Caption: A neurosurgeon reviewing a brain scan images showing a tumor. 

Alt text: A neurosurgeon examines detailed brain MRI scans displaying a tumor, using a tablet while additional images are shown on a nearby screen.

Entry 6: Video

#BrainPlasticity #NeurosurgeryExplained #ENGL2201

https://youtu.be/dN4DuxaPdXg