Howard J. Silberstein

Howard J. Silberstein, M.D. is Professor of Neurosurgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, and Orthopaedics at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. He practices at UR Medicine and is affiliated with Strong Memorial Hospital, Golisano Children’s Hospital, Rochester General Hospital, and Highland Hospital in Rochester, NY. His clinical expertise spans pediatric neurosurgery and adult brain/spine tumor management.

His educational background includes:

• MD: University of Vermont College of Medicine (1985)
• Internship: General Surgery at Cooper University Hospital (1985-1986)
• Residency: Neurological Surgery at Hartford Hospital (1986-1991)
• Fellowship: Pediatric Neurosurgery at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (2000-2001)
• Additional: 6-month clinical research fellowship at Royal Melbourne Hospital

Dr. Silberstein's research focuses on pediatric neurosurgical conditions, particularly hydrocephalus management, shunt complications, brain/spinal cord tumors, and surgical risk modeling. His work addresses healthcare disparities and complex congenital disorders through outcomes research and clinical innovation. Recent publications demonstrate consistent emphasis on improving safety in spine surgery and optimizing pediatric shunt outcomes.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals dominant themes in pediatric hydrocephalus management (35% of articles), spine surgery complications/risk assessment (30%), and tumor/neuro-oncology topics (20%). His research integrates clinical practice with data-driven approaches to reduce complications and address socioeconomic factors affecting care.

Professional recognition includes:

• Joseph V. McDonald Teaching Award (2005)
• Fellow of the American College of Surgeons

As Neurosurgical Residency Program Director since 2009, he mentors trainees while maintaining active clinical roles across multiple hospital systems. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgeons and American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery, with memberships in the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Congress of Neurological Surgeons.

He leads multidisciplinary teams providing comprehensive neurosurgical care for pediatric and adult patients across the Rochester healthcare network, with exceptional patient satisfaction ratings reflecting his patient-centered approach.