Dr. Phillip A. Villanueva, MD, FAANS

Expert Publications

• Neurobehavioural outcomes of penetrating and tangential gunshot wounds to the head.
• Hyperbaric oxygen seizures in rats: effects of handling and chamber noise.
• Magnetic resonance applications in cerebral injury.
• Simplified technique for subdural pressure monitoring: technical note.
• An improved subarachnoid screw for intracranial pressure monitoring. Technical note.
• Evaluation of serum osteoblast mitogenic activity in spinal cord and head injury patients with acute heterotopic ossification.
• Orbital-frontal delayed hemorrhagic contusions: clinical course and neurosurgical treatment protocol.
• Diffuse axonal injury (DAI) is not associated with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP).
• Early combined management of frontal sinus and orbital and facial fractures.

Media Releases

Transforming Lives Through Surgical Excellence and Compassionate Care 

Philip A. Villanueva, MD, FAANS, a distinguished neurosurgeon with nearly five decades of experience, currently serves as the Director of Neurotrauma and Critical Care at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia. A prominent figure in Pennsylvania’s leading neurosurgical center, Dr. Villanueva combines surgical mastery with academic leadership to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex neurological conditions.

Dr. Villanueva is also a Professor of Clinical Neurosurgery at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. His commitment to education is matched by his dedication to patient care; Dr. Villanueva’s expertise spans conservative and surgical treatment approaches for conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, spinal column, and peripheral nerves.

Under Dr. Villanueva’s leadership, the Neurotrauma and Critical Care Program has experienced significant advancements, expanding its services to better serve patients suffering from traumatic brain injuries, aneurysms, spinal cord injuries, and complex neurological emergencies. His dual role as a surgeon and educator allows him to integrate the latest surgical techniques with best practices in intensive care, ensuring both immediate survival and improved long-term neurological outcomes for patients.

Dr. Villanueva earned his Medical Degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where he cultivated his passion for neurosurgery. He completed his residency in neurological surgery and further enhanced his skills through a fellowship at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. This rigorous training has equipped him with the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in his current role.

As a Fellow of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (FAANS), Dr. Villanueva is board-certified in neurological surgery by the American Board of Neurological Surgery, exemplifying his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice. He actively engages in various professional organizations, including the Congress of Neuroscience, the Society Section on Trauma & Critical Care – AANS/CNS, and the Pennsylvania Neurosurgical Society, among others. His involvement in these organizations underscores his dedication to staying at the forefront of advances in neurosurgery and critical care.

At the core of Dr. Villanueva’s career is a deep commitment to his patients. His surgical success is not solely attributed to his technical skills but also his genuine compassion for those under his care. Dr. Villanueva employs a holistic approach that considers the emotional and psychological needs of his patients during their treatment journeys.

Patients frequently express feeling reassured and supported while under Dr. Villanueva’s care. His ability to simplify complex neurological conditions fosters a trusting relationship, allowing patients to feel more engaged in their treatment plans. This patient-centered approach has been instrumental in his success as a neurosurgeon.

Dr. Villanueva’s dedication and contributions to the field of neurosurgery have garnered numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the Best Doctors in America® for Neurological Surgery for 2019-2020. His honors also include the Dean’s List for Patient Satisfaction, the esteemed Iron Arrow Honor Society, the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, and the Neurosurgical Resident of the Year Award from Jackson Memorial Medical Center, among others. These achievements reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence and his profound impact on both his patients and the medical community.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Villanueva is passionate about raising public awareness regarding brain trauma. He has participated in community public service announcements (PSAs) and continues to contribute to the academic community through key educational texts in critical-care neurosurgery.

“Philadelphia has entrusted its most vulnerable patients to our Neurotrauma unit,” Dr. Villanueva stated. “My focus remains on advancing multimodal approaches to neurocritical care—fusing surgical innovation, compassionate patient engagement, and rigorous academic standards to improve recovery and reduce long-term disability.”

As Dr. Phillip A. Villanueva continues to excel in his roles as a surgeon, educator, and leader, the future of neuroscience at Temple University Hospital looks promising. His unparalleled career reflects a lifetime of service and an unwavering dedication to advancing the field of neurosurgery, ensuring that the highest standards of care are met for countless patients.

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