The Brain Radionecrosis Center is a multi-disciplinary center housed within the Division of Hyperbaric Medicine at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. The Center is actively supported by the Mayfield Clinic, the Neurosciences Institute, the Department of Emergency Medicine and the Institute for Health Policy and Health Services Research. This team approach helps us provide comprehensive care for all brain radionecrosis needs.

Dr. Laurie Gesell, one of the foremost hyperbaricists in the country, leads the center. She is supported by a neurosurgeon, Dr. Ron Warnick, and a neuro-oncologist, Dr. John Breneman. Carla Vogt, RN, coordinates the day-to-day operations of the Center.

Laurie Beth Gesell, MD, FACEP, received her medical degree from UMDNJ - New Jersey Medical School in Newark, New Jersey and graduated with membership in Alpha Omega Alpha. She was also the recipient of the Janet M. Glasgow Memorial Award from the American Medical Women's Association for Scholastic Achievement. Subsequently, Dr. Gesell completed her residency in Emergency Medicine at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. During her senior year she was elected to serve as Chief Resident. Following residency, Dr. Gesell completed a two-year fellowship in toxicology and hyperbaric medicine, also at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. In 1997, Dr. Gesell joined the staff in the Department of Emergency at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and, shortly thereafter was chosen to be Medical Director for the University's existing Center for Hyperbaric Medicine.

During her tenure, the Center has undergone numerous changes, improvements and growth. As a result, Hyperbaric Medicine has been promoted to Division status within the Department of Emergency Medicine. Dr. Gesell is the Director.

In addition to her involvement in hyperbaric medicine, Dr. Gesell serves as an Assistant Professor in Emergency Medicine, and consulting toxicologist for the Cincinnati Regional Drug and Poison Information Center. She is an active member of the Disaster Medical System's Disaster Medicine Assistance Team (DMAT) KY-1, and she is a founding member of the American Red Cross's Cincinnati Carbon Monoxide Task Force.

She was nominated in 2004 by the Business Council as a "Health Care Hero" in Cincinnati.

Dr. Gesell is certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians, as well as a member of numerous other professional societies. In 1999, she achieved certification by the American Board of Hyperbaric Medicine. In 2000, she became a diplomat in the subspecialty of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine as awarded by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, and in 2001, she became a diplomat in the subspecialty of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine as awarded by the American Board of Emergency Medicine.

Her UHMS positions include serving as a member on the Executive Board, and as a member of the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Committee and Research Committee. She was also an Executive Committee Member-at-Large until her President Elect appointment for the Midwest Hyperbaric Medicine Chapter.

Dr. Gesell has published and presented numerous abstracts and book chapters in the field of toxicology and hyperbaric medicine. In addition, she is actively involved in clinical hyperbaric medicine research.

Ron Warnick, MD, is a Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and is an active neurosurgeon with the Mayfield Clinic. His expertise pertains to central nervous system tumors.

John Breneman, MD, is the Charles M. Barrett Professor of Radiation Oncology in the Department of Radiology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. His expertise includes the treatment of brain tumors, pediatric tumors, and cutaneous lymphomas.

Carla J. Vogt RN, BSN, is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati's College of Nursing. Subsequent to obtaining her license from the Ohio State Board of Nursing, she worked as a medical-surgical staff nurse. Ms. Vogt has experience in pharmaceutical research, as well, working in a database management capacity. She serves as the coordinator for the Brain Radionecrosis Center, as the central point of contact for patients and physicians.