Department of Neurosurgery

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Theresa Williamson, MD MPH

Director of Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Spinal Surgery, Director of the CINNR (Center for Innovation in Neurosurgery and Neural Repair) Laboratory
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Biography

Background

Dr. Williamson completed her medical degree at Yale School of Medicine, neurosurgery residency and complex spine fellowship at Duke University, and a Surgical Ethics Fellowship at the University of Chicago and the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Williamson joins us from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, where she served as Director of the Minimally Invasive Spine Service within the Department of Neurosurgery. Her clinical expertise spans the management of complex spinal disorders, brain and spinal trauma, and metastatic spinal disease, with a particular focus on minimally invasive and patient-tailored surgical approaches.

In addition to her clinical leadership, Dr. Williamson is nationally recognized for her research in surgical ethics, patient-physician communication, and health equity. She leads the Neurosurgical Equitable Wellness (NEW) Lab, which investigates disparities in neurosurgical care, shared decision-making, and workforce wellness. Her work integrates bioethics and data science to improve outcomes and enhance trust in surgical decision-making.

Recent News

ABC, Championship's Edge

Dr. Theresa Williamson, Mindset of a Surgeon | The Champion’s Edge with Bonnie Bernstein

Pioneering neurosurgeon Theresa Williamson applies lessons from sports to cutting-edge brain and spine surgery. A former multisport athlete who played soccer at Yale, her path in medicine is shaped by resilience and reinvention. When injuries end her athletic career, she redirects her competitive drive toward medicine. In the operating room, Theresa leads teams with the same coordination, focus, communication, and precision that defined her as an athlete. Through patient stories and mentorship, she highlights her mission to improve the patient experience, advance neurotechnology, and inspire young women in medicine and beyond.
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