NSONJ Neurosurgeons Share Expertise at International Society of University Neurosurgeons Meeting

Three physicians from Neurosurgeons of New Jersey recently represented the practice at the 2026 annual meeting of the Society of University Neurosurgeons (SUN), held June 28 through July 2 in Lima, Peru. Their participation reflected not only the practice’s commitment to exceptional patient care, but also its ongoing leadership in academic neurosurgery, research, and education.

Founded in 1965, the Society of University Neurosurgeons is an international organization dedicated to advancing academic neurosurgery through collaboration, scientific research, education, and leadership. Its annual meeting brings together neurosurgical leaders from major academic medical centers to exchange ideas, present new research, and discuss the latest advances shaping the future of patient care.

Members of Neurosurgeons of New Jersey participated in the 2026 Society of University Neurosurgeons Annual Meeting in Lima, Peru. Pictured (left to right): Dr. David Estin, Dr. Richard Anderson, and Dr. Michael Kaiser.

Leadership Beyond the Operating Room

Neurosurgeons of New Jersey was well represented at this year’s meeting by Dr. Michael Kaiser, Dr. Richard Anderson, and Dr. David Estin, each of whom continues to contribute to the advancement of neurosurgery beyond clinical practice.

Dr. Michael Kaiser currently serves as Vice President of the Society of University Neurosurgeons, while Dr. Richard Anderson serves on the Society’s Senior Advisory Committee after completing his term as President. Their leadership positions reflect years of dedication to advancing neurosurgical education, mentoring future surgeons, and supporting research that improves patient outcomes.

While patients know these physicians for the compassionate care they provide in New Jersey, their work extends far beyond the operating room. Through organizations like SUN, they collaborate with experts from leading academic institutions to help shape the future of neurosurgery.

“One of the greatest benefits of the SUN meeting is the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions about complex surgical problems with colleagues who are leaders in their fields. Those conversations challenge all of us to continually refine our techniques, evaluate new evidence, and deliver the highest level of care to our patients.”

Sharing Expertise in Spine Surgery

During the meeting, Dr. Michael Kaiser presented:

“Anterior versus Posterior Approach for Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament: A Review of the Literature and a Single Surgeon’s Perspective.”

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a condition in which spinal ligaments gradually harden into bone, placing pressure on the spinal cord and potentially causing pain, weakness, numbness, and difficulty walking. Because every patient’s anatomy and symptoms are different, selecting the most appropriate surgical approach is often complex.

Dr. Kaiser’s presentation examined the current medical literature alongside his own surgical experience, highlighting the factors surgeons consider when determining whether an anterior or posterior approach is most appropriate for each patient.

Improving Care for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Dr. Richard Anderson presented:

“Is an Intrathecal Baclofen Trial Helpful to Select Patients and Predict Outcomes After Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy in Children with Cerebral Palsy?”

Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a specialized procedure that can reduce muscle spasticity and improve mobility in carefully selected children with cerebral palsy. One of the greatest challenges is determining which children are most likely to benefit from surgery.

Dr. Anderson’s presentation explored whether an intrathecal baclofen trial may help physicians better predict surgical outcomes, providing families with additional information when considering treatment options. Research like this supports more personalized treatment decisions and helps ensure each child receives the care that is most appropriate for their individual needs.

“Research is most valuable when it helps families make more informed decisions. By continuing to study which children benefit most from specific treatments, we can provide more personalized care and help families move forward with greater confidence.”

Collaboration That Benefits Patients

Although scientific presentations are a major part of the meeting, one of the greatest values of SUN is the opportunity for academic neurosurgeons to learn from one another. Throughout the conference, physicians discussed emerging technologies, evolving surgical techniques, challenging patient cases, and the latest clinical research.

Dr. David Estin also participated in the meeting as a member of the Society of University Neurosurgeons, joining colleagues from leading academic medical centers in scientific sessions and collaborative discussions focused on improving neurosurgical care.

“Academic medicine is built on collaboration. Meetings like SUN allow us to exchange ideas with colleagues from around the world, and those conversations ultimately help us provide even better care for the patients we serve here in New Jersey.”

Bringing Academic Excellence Home to New Jersey

For patients, participation in organizations like the Society of University Neurosurgeons means their physicians remain actively engaged with the latest research, evolving surgical techniques, and national leaders in the field. Rather than relying solely on established practices, they continue to contribute to the conversations that help define the future of neurosurgical care.

Whether treating complex spine conditions, pediatric neurological disorders, brain tumors, or other diseases affecting the brain and spine, the physicians at Neurosurgeons of New Jersey combine decades of surgical experience with an ongoing commitment to research, education, and innovation.

That commitment ensures patients receive care informed not only by experience, but also by the latest evidence, collaboration, and advances in neurosurgery from around the world.

If you are looking for expert care for a brain, spine, or neurological condition, the specialists at Neurosurgeons of New Jersey combine compassionate patient care with active leadership in academic neurosurgery, research, and education.

To learn more about our team or request an appointment, contact Neurosurgeons of New Jersey today.