Curtis E. Doberstein, M.D. - Research Interests

Dr. Doberstein has conducted basic-science research on apoptosis after stroke. Most of his current research, however, is clinical.

At present, Dr. Doberstein is investigating two surgical procedures, carotid endarterectomy and posterior lumbar interbody fusion. Specifically, he is exploring the feasibility of same-day discharge after carotid endarterectomy, the removal of plaque from a carotid artery. Two studies look at patients who underwent this surgery with local anesthesia only: One examines patient satisfaction after surgery; the other assesses post-surgical outcomes in over 300 patients.

In posterior lumbar interbody fusion, the surgeon grafts bone between adjacent vertebrae. Dr. Doberstein is evaluating long-term outcomes and radiographic findings after this procedure.