Dr. Nicholas M. Wetjen, MD

Expert Publications

• Balloon angioplasty to treat vasospasm after transsphenoidal surgery. Case illustration.
• Neurologic variant laryngomalacia associated with Chiari malformation and
• Histologically proven, low-grade brainstem gliomas in children: 30-year experience with long-term follow-up at Mayo Clinic.
• The role of nocturnal polysomnography in assessing children with Chiari type I malformation.
• Repeat resective surgery in complex pediatric refractory epilepsy: lessons learned.
• Superficial siderosis of the central nervous system associated with incomplete dural closure following posterior fossa surgery: report of 3 cases.
• Current Selection Criteria and Perioperative Therapy Used for Fetal Myelomeningocele Surgery.
• Accuracy of Pedicle Screw Placement in Children 10 Years or Younger Using Navigation and Intraoperative CT.
• Clinical and surgical management of a congenital Type II split cord malformation presenting with progressive cranial neuropathies: case report.
• Optical Coherence Tomography for the Noninvasive Detection of Elevated Intracranial Pressure: A New Role for the Ophthalmologist?
• Pre- and postischemic effects of the NMDA receptor antagonist dizocilpine maleate (MK-801) on collateral cerebral blood flow.

Media Releases

Renowned Neurosurgeon Brings Extensive Expertise and Commitment to Patient Care in Fort Wayne

Dr. Wetjen is a general and pediatric neurosurgeon currently affiliated with Fort Wayne NeuroSpine and Pain and the Indiana University Physicians Group. His current practice focus is in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine procedures after having transitioned from an academic career in pediatric neurosurgery. His career spans over 15 years during which he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovative clinical practices that prioritize patient outcomes.

Previously, he held the position of Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Mayo Clinic in Rochester Minnesota as well as at Blank Children’s Hospital and Iowa Clinic in Des Moines, Iowa. His exceptional experience at the Mayo Clinic, where he served as Associate Professor of Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, has further reinforced his standing as a leading figure in neurosurgery. His specialization in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine as well as pediatric spine, craniofacial, and skull base surgery underlines his dedication to addressing complex neurological conditions in adults and children.

Dr. Wetjen’s educational journey began at the University of Iowa, where he obtained his medical degree. He completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic, an infolded clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health and a pediatric neurosurgery fellowship at the University of Utah. His extensive training has equipped him with the skills necessary to tackle a wide range of neurosurgical challenges.

Dr. Wetjen is board certified in both neurosurgery and pediatric neurosurgery and is a fellow in several prestigious medical organizations, including the American Association of Neurological Surgery and the American College of Surgeons. His contributions to academic research and clinical practice continue to inspire both his peers and the next generation of neurosurgeons, making him a vital asset to the medical community.

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