Elissa Ortolani , MD

Biography

“The NeuroNEXT Fellowship was an incredible opportunity to develop my growing interest in clinical research.  Beginning with the completion of the REACH Summer Core curriculum, I was able to lay a solid foundation of clinical research methods, measures and biostatistics. These formal didactics helped to create a structure for my own research project design and implementation. The fellowship mentors were invaluable, providing constant support and encouragement as I learned to navigate the world of research. I am excited for a future career as a clinical researcher and feel honored to have had this opportunity.”

Dr. Elissa Ortolani is currently a Vascular Neurology Fellow in the Division of Neurology at UPMC.  She completed a 5-year Child Neurology Residency at the UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where she served as one of the Chief Neurology Residents during her final year.  Prior to her training, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Jacob’s School of Medicine and Biological Sciences in Buffalo, NY.

During her child neurology residency, she developed a strong clinical and research interest in pediatric vascular disease and stroke.  These problems are seen regularly at Children’s Hospitals and can have a devastating impact on lifelong disability and yet their causes, pathophysiology and treatment are poorly understood. Her goal is to practice a combination of both adult and pediatric vascular neurology, with the intention of translating knowledge from the more developed adult experience to pediatric practice.

Dr. Ortolani is a member of Alpha Omega Alpha, American Academy of Neurology, American Heart Association and the Child Neurology Society.  Her research interests include care and outcomes of pediatric patients with in-hospital acute ischemic stroke.