Rupen Desai

Rupen Desai, MD is an Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin and Director of Clinical Trials in the Cranial Division. He specializes in complex neuro-oncology, minimally invasive skull base surgery, and brain tumor management. Dr. Desai completed his neurosurgery residency at Washington University in St. Louis, followed by fellowships in Minimally Invasive Skull Base Surgery (Weill Cornell) and Complex Neuro-Oncology (University of Oklahoma). He is affiliated with Froedtert Health and leads multidisciplinary teams in neuro-oncology, brain injury, and spine tumor programs.

His research focuses on glioblastoma, brain metastases, tumor microenvironment dynamics, and immunotherapy advancements. Recent work includes studies on sonobiopsy for glioma diagnosis, T-cell therapies, and surgical innovations like the eyelid trans-orbital approach. Dr. Desai emphasizes patient-centered care, combining cutting-edge techniques with shared decision-making.

• Education:
  • MD: Duke University School of Medicine (2016)
  • Residency: Neurological Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis (2016–2023)
  • Fellowships:
    • Minimally Invasive Skull Base Surgery (Weill Cornell, 2023)
    • Complex Neuro-Oncology (University of Oklahoma, 2024)

His clinical trials focus on advancing therapies for malignant brain tumors. Collaborative research includes lymphoscintigraphy for brain-drainage mapping and radiation safety in spine surgery. Dr. Desai is also actively engaged in translational studies bridging immunology and neuro-oncology.

Outside medicine, he enjoys outdoor activities with his family and maintains a passion for sports and culinary exploration.