The ATLAS Institute of Brain and Spine is home to three internationally recognized Centers of Excellence led by Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol, one of the most accomplished neurosurgeons in the world. Patients from across the United States and around the globe seek out these centers for advanced minimally invasive surgery, superior outcomes, and access to cutting-edge technology not available at standard neurosurgical facilities.
Dr. Cohen’s career includes more than two decades of experience and exceptional surgical volume, with over 2,000 meningioma surgeries, more than 800 cavernous malformation operations, and more than 600 microvascular decompressions for hemifacial spasm. His consistent record of innovation, precision, and long-term success places these Centers of Excellence among the most respected neurosurgical programs worldwide.
Each Center of Excellence provides a highly focused, multidisciplinary approach with advanced imaging, proprietary 3D surgical simulation, and individualized treatment planning. Patients receive expert diagnosis, refined minimally invasive techniques, and long-term follow-up to ensure the best possible neurological outcomes.
Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol performed surgery on me, and the results were excellent. I regained my full eyesight and have not had any issues. He and his staff have always been professional, courteous, and caring before the surgery and through the follow-up visits.
Explore Our Centers of Excellence
The following centers represent the highest level of specialization at the ATLAS Institute of Brain and Spine. Each program offers tailored treatment, advanced imaging, and a surgical approach that aims to preserve neurological function while providing long-term stability.
Meningioma Surgery Center of Excellence
The Meningioma Surgery Center of Excellence is recognized for its expertise in complex and minimally invasive meningioma removal. With more than 2,000 meningioma surgeries performed, Dr. Cohen is among the most experienced meningioma surgeons in the world, achieving a 95 percent complete resection rate that exceeds national benchmarks.
Highlights of This Center
- Minimally invasive and keyhole approaches
- High-resolution endoscopy and microvascular imaging
- Proprietary 3D surgical simulation planning
- Multidisciplinary tumor board evaluation
- Faster recovery and reduced scarring
- Access to clinical trials and advanced therapies
Cavernous Malformation, CCM Surgery Center of Excellence
The Cavernous Malformation Center of Excellence provides world-class care for cerebral cavernous malformations, including deep or high-risk lesions. Dr. Cohen has performed more than 800 CCM surgeries, offering patients a 98 percent symptom resolution rate and lower recurrence than standard neurosurgical programs.
Highlights of This Center
- Advanced MRI and intraoperative ultrasound
- Intraoperative navigation and microsurgical precision
- 3D simulation for approach planning
- Expertise in hereditary and familial CCM
- Vascular neurology and genetic counseling integration
- Safe management of brainstem and deep-seated CCMs
Hemifacial Spasm, Microvascular Decompression Center of Excellence
The Hemifacial Spasm Center of Excellence is globally recognized for its mastery in minimally invasive microvascular decompression surgery. With more than 600 MVD procedures performed, Dr. Cohen’s infra-floccular technique provides a documented 95 percent cure rate, a less than 1 percent risk of facial weakness, and excellent long-term durability.
Highlights of This Center
- Smooth transition from Botox to permanent cure
- Ultra high-definition endoscopy for enhanced visualization
- Real-time facial nerve mapping and neuro-monitoring
- Minimally invasive infra-floccular approach
- 95 percent durable cure rate at ten years
- Multidisciplinary facial nerve specialists
Why Patients Travel to Our Centers from Around the World
Patients frequently travel long distances for the level of surgical mastery and advanced care provided here. Many arrive after being told elsewhere that their tumor, vascular malformation, or hemifacial spasm is too difficult or too dangerous to treat surgically.
Referrals for Complex Cases
Dr. Cohen routinely treats patients with:
- Recurrent tumors previously operated elsewhere
- Deep cavernous malformations in the brainstem or thalamus
- Facial nerve compression unresponsive to Botox
- High-risk lesions previously deemed inoperable
His ability to achieve safe outcomes in these complex situations is one reason the Centers of Excellence have earned international recognition.
Exceptional Outcomes and Low Complication Rates
The centers consistently demonstrate complication rates significantly lower than national benchmarks, driven by meticulous microsurgery, minimally invasive planning, and advanced imaging technologies.
Continuous Innovation and Research
The ATLAS Institute of Brain and Spine contributes to clinical trials, global registries, and ongoing research in tumor removal, vascular lesion management, and facial nerve compression. Patients benefit from access to innovations and surgical advancements as soon as they become available.
Your Patient Journey at the Centers of Excellence
1. Diagnosis and Imaging
Patients undergo advanced MRI, CT, or vascular imaging depending on the condition.
2. Personalized Consultation with Dr. Cohen
Imaging is reviewed in depth, and the safest, most effective treatment plan is developed collaboratively.
3. 3D Surgical Simulation and Strategy
Dr. Cohen uses his proprietary simulation platform to rehearse the operation and refine the approach for maximum safety.
4. Minimally Invasive Surgery
Patients benefit from refined microsurgical techniques, high-definition visualization, and continuous monitoring.
5. Postoperative Care and Long-Term Follow-Up
The centers provide ongoing monitoring, rehabilitation when needed, and lifelong follow-up for stability and recovery.
Request a Consultation with One of Our Centers of Excellence
Patients seeking advanced diagnosis, minimally invasive neurosurgery, and world-leading outcomes are encouraged to contact the ATLAS Institute of Brain and Spine. Whether you have a newly diagnosed condition, a complex case, or a recurrence after previous treatment, Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol and the center’s multidisciplinary team offer exceptional expertise and a patient-centered care experience.
