Henry Brem

Dr. Henry Brem is a renowned neurosurgeon and the Director of the Department of Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital. He is widely recognized for his pioneering advancements in the surgical treatment of malignant brain tumors. His work has fundamentally changed how neuro-oncology is practiced worldwide.

The Gliadel Wafer is an FDA-approved biodegradable polymer infused with the chemotherapy drug carmustine (BCNU), co-developed by Dr. Henry Brem. During brain tumor resection surgery, these wafers are placed directly into the cavity where the tumor was removed. This allows for a highly concentrated dose of chemotherapy directly at the tumor site while minimizing systemic side effects.

Beyond the Gliadel Wafer, Dr. Henry Brem also played a crucial role in developing non-invasive techniques for brain tumor localization and drug delivery. He has held numerous patents related to localized chemotherapy and treatments for hydrocephalus. His research lab at Johns Hopkins continues to focus on overcoming the blood-brain barrier.

Dr. Henry Brem practices neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. In addition to his surgical practice, he serves as the Harvey Cushing Professor of Neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He also acts as the Neurosurgeon-in-Chief for the entire Johns Hopkins Health System.