Michael P Catalino, MD

As a neurosurgical oncologist, Michael P. Catalino, MD, specializes in the surgical treatment of brain and spine tumors. He also performs surgery for degenerative diseases of the spine. Dr. Catalino’s practice focuses on the treatment of pituitary tumors, anterior skull base malignancies, and metastatic cancer affecting the brain and spinal column.

Bringing a unique blend of advanced training to UVA Health, Dr. Catalino is well-equipped to serve patients with a wide range of needs. He completed a fellowship in neuroendoscopy and pituitary surgery under Edward R. Laws Jr., at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. He also completed a neurosurgical oncology fellowship – focusing on complex brain, skull base, and spine tumors – at MD Anderson Cancer Center, in Houston, Texas, where he was awarded the Caroline Ross Endowed Fellowship in Brain Cancer Research.

Dr. Catalino attended Duke University and graduated with honors in biological anthropology and anatomy. As a decorated student-athlete, he also won a NCAA lacrosse national championship with the Blue Devils. Dr. Catalino then earned a master’s degree in global health from Duke and his medical doctorate from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. He then completed a residency in neurological surgery at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. In addition to his contributions to medical and surgical education, Dr. Catalino’s research has resulted in numerous peer-reviewed publications.

Because of his outstanding research, he was invited to join an elite group as a full member of the UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center. He received this honor in 2024 from the UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center Support Grant leadership for his research related to cancer prevention and population health.

Passionate about caring for the whole person, Dr. Catalino knows how difficult it is to receive a cancer diagnosis. He strives to understand each patient’s individual needs and preferences while finding the best treatment approach to extend survival and improve quality of life.

“I believe that a major part of my role as a surgeon is to support patients through the darkest and most challenging times in their lives,” says Dr. Catalino.

A native of Webster, New York, Dr. Catalino knew from a young age that he wanted to be a physician.

“My heart has always been patient-facing and filled with compassion for the sick. The road to being a doctor is not easy, but all throughout my career, I have been blessed by so many great mentors who have provided the perspective and encouragement I needed to become the physician I am today.”

Dr. Catalino is a principled surgeon driven by a deep sense of purpose.

“The core values that shape my clinical practice and academic work are humility, truth, teamwork, curiosity, and respect,” he says. “These values have proven critical to caring for patients, leading research and clinical teams, and mentoring the next generation of medical and surgical professionals.”

Outside of work, Dr. Catalino enjoys camping, fishing, and spending time with his wife and three children. “I am so thankful for my family, and I don’t know where I would be without them faithfully by my side,” he says. “They shape and motivate me each and every day.”

Clinical Interests

• Brain and anterior skull base tumors
• Degenerative spine disease
• Metastatic cancer to the brain and spine
• Pituitary tumors
• Tumors of the vertebral column and spinal cord
• Tumor-related hydrocephalus

Gender

Male

Languages

English

Age Groups Seen

Adults (21-65)
Older Adults (65+)

Primary Education

Georgetown University School of Medicine

Residency

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine

Fellowships

Brigham and Women's Hospital