Alexander Faans

Professor of Surgery, Radiology and Neurosciences at University of California San Diego

Alexander Khalessi, MD, MBA, is a prominent neurosurgeon and academic leader at the University of California San Diego (UCSD). He currently serves as the Chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery and holds the position of Professor of Neurological Surgery, Radiology, and Neurosciences at UCSD School of Medicine.1 2 3

Professional Roles and Expertise

Dr. Khalessi is a board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in:

Complex cranial surgery
Endovascular neurosurgery
Stroke care
Neurological oncology1 2

He performs both open surgical and minimally invasive procedures, demonstrating a wide range of expertise in neurosurgical techniques.1

Academic Leadership

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Khalessi holds several prestigious positions:

Inaugural Don and Karen Cohn Chancellor's Endowed Chair in Neurosurgery at UCSD2 3
Current President of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS)2

Under his leadership, the Department of Neurological Surgery at UCSD has experienced significant growth, performing an average of 4,000 major cases annually.2

Education and Achievements

Dr. Khalessi's educational background includes:

Medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Neurosurgery residency at the University of Southern California
Fellowship training at the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine1

His contributions to the field of neurosurgery have been recognized through various accolades, including the Excellence in Stewardship award.4

Dr. Khalessi's work has significantly impacted neurosurgical care at UCSD and beyond, with the institution being ranked #1 in California and San Diego, and #22 in the nation.4