Johns Hopkins University SOM

Professor & Director of Neurosurgery

About

Professor of Neurosurgery, Ophthalmology, Oncology and Biomedical Engineering/Director, Department of Neurosurgery/Director, Hunterian Neurosurgical Research Laboratory/Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Henry Brem has developed new tools and techniques that have changed the field of neurosurgery. Brem carried out the pivotal clinical study that introduced navigational imaging into the neurosurgical suite. His work led to the FDA's approval of the first image guidance computer system for intraoperative localization of tumors. Furthermore, he has changed the surgical armamentarium against brain tumors by inventing and developing Gliadel® wafers to intraoperatively deliver chemotherapy to brain tumors. His work with Bob Langer, has shown that surgeons can accurately deliver potent therapies directly at the tumor site. Brem has changed the surgical treatment of brain tumors by introducing new approaches for targeted therapy. He developed new classes of polymers and microchips for drug delivery that are custom synthesized for the agent being developed. The polyanhydrides, which were the first new treatments for brain tumors that the FDA had approved in 23 years, have been shown in his laboratory to be biocompatible and potent. He then designed and led the clinical trials demonstrating safety and efficacy. He has published over 350 research papers, 58 book chapters, 11 patents, and an H index of 95 with over 37,000 citations. In addition to his academic work he has worked closely with biotech companies to develop new technologies. The worldwide impact of the Hopkins Neurosurgery Department is reflected in 18 Neurosurgery Department Chairman that have come from the Department between 2000 and 2022. Brem’s devotion to patient care, clinical excellence and translational science has brought together a unique group of neurosurgeons and investigators that have changed the field of neurosurgery. He continues his practice of complex brain surgery and to lead the Johns Hopkins Neurosurgery Department.