Chair’s Corner
Steven L. Giannotta, MD, is nationally recognized for his work on cerebrovascular disease of the brain and spinal cord, and has a special expertise in surgical approaches to the cranial base.
He has surgically treated more than 1,000 intracranial aneurysms and surgically removed more than 400 acoustic neuromas. A highly regarded mentor, he ensures that neurosurgical residents and fellows are exposed to a broad range of experiences across the neurosurgical care spectrum and that they complete their training equipped with the latest surgical techniques.

Chair, Neurological Surgery
Professor of Neurological Surgery
Biography
Steven L. Giannotta, MD, has served as chair of Neurological Surgery since 2004. A board-certified neurosurgeon, he earned his medical degree and completed residency at the University of Michigan. He joined USC in 1980.
Working with colleagues in otolaryngology, Giannotta has developed a team approach to treating complex cranial base lesions, including acoustic neuromas, meningiomas of the cranial base, complex aneurysms that require cranial base approaches, and other conditions affecting the base of the brain and skull. Complex conditions often require several modes of therapy and Giannotta offers expertise in leading-edge techniques, such as stereotactic radiosurgery using the Gamma Knife and Cyberknife.
He was named one of “America’s Top Doctors” in 2015.
About Steven L. Giannotta
Clinical Interests
Giannotta specializes in the treatment of cerebrovascular and skull base disorders, including trigeminal neuralgia, acoustic neuroma, meningioma, aneurysm, stroke, carotid stenosis, cavernous malformation and arteriovenous malformation.
He has developed a comprehensive set of surgical techniques to treat cerebrovascular disease of the brain and spinal cord, with a patient-centered approach to care.
Current Research
Giannotta’s research focuses on cerebral blood flow and cerebral protection from ischemia. Through his discoveries, he has developed innovative surgical techniques that manipulate the cardiovascular system to control the ischemic effects of cerebral vasospasm. His lab is currently looking at the nature of arteriovenous malformations of the brain.