Hydrocephalus Community Loses a Trailblazer

Dr. Noel Tulipan, Vanderbilt

3-27-2014 – Studio photos of Dr. Noel Tulipan, M.D. & Professor of Neurosurgery. (Steve Green / Vanderbilt University)

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Noel Tulipan, MD, renowned neurosurgeon and trailblazer in fetal surgery repair for spina bifida. Dr. Tulipan died on Monday after a long illness. He was 64.

“Sadly Noel Tulipan, one of the leaders of Pediatric Neurosurgery, pioneer of fetal surgery for myleomeningocele leading to the ground changing MOMS trial, and ASPN member since 1997, has passed away on November 2, at the age of 64. Noel spent his entire career at Vanderbilt where he brought the pediatric neurosurgery program there to national prominence as a result of his tireless work and commitment,” shared Jim Drake, MD, head of neurosurgery at The Hospital for Sick Children in Ontario, Canada and Secretary for the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons (ASPN).

Dr. Tulipan was known in the hydrocephalus community for his dedication and compassion for his patients. He had been a longtime supporter of the Hydrocephalus Association and the community at large. His patients and their families will remember him for his caring heart and pioneering effort in treating hydrocephalus.

“He got it. It wasn’t about being the neurosurgeon that knew it all. It was about making sure that he called her Lula Mae, he cracked a smile when she called him Tuli, and he knew when to hang up the surgical scrubs,” remembers Chara McLaughen, mom to Ema and our Chattanooga Hydrocephalus Association WALK Chair.

Read more about Dr. Tulpan in this announcement from Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and his colleagues.

Dr. Noel Tulipan with patient

Dr. Noel Tulipan with Ema McLaughen at the 2012 Chattanooga Hydrocephalus Association WALK

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