Neurosurgery Faculty Spotlight: Mari Groves

How do you describe being a pediatric neurosurgeon?

I would describe being a pediatric neurosurgeon as challenging and extremely humbling. But I find it extremely rewarding when you see the positive effect that you have had on the lives of your patients and their families.

What are your specialty areas? What are some common procedures you perform or conditions you treat?

Brain tumors, Chiari Malformations, Epilepsy, Hydrocephalus, Intramedullary spinal cord tumors, Lipoma, Myelomeningocele, Spinal Deformity; Scoliosis, Skeletal Dysplasia, Spina bifida, Spinal Cord Injury, and Dysraphism.

What drew you to the complex specialty of pediatric neurosurgery?

This specialty allows me to tackle complex diagnosis and help improve the quality of life.

What are your research/professional interests?

My research interests focus on pediatric spinal disease and how surgical intervention can impact the growth and neurological function over a child's life. Many children are diagnosed with debilitating spinal disease very early in their life and our understanding and appreciation of this is growing day by day.

What is the most satisfying aspect of being a neurosurgeon?

Every day, I am humbled to be able to offer my counsel to families faced with difficult and sometimes impossible decisions regarding the treatment of their child. As a mother myself, I can understand the fear and apprehension that might surround a surgical solution to a life-altering diagnosis. I am incredibility reverent of these difficult scenarios and honored to be part of that healing process.

What is some advice you frequently share with patients?

For patients (and parents), I can attest that Maryland is dedicated to providing the best care possible. I hope that parents feel confident that the team and myself strive to consistently provide their child the very best individualized care.