Becker’s Healthcare is proud to unveil its 2025 list of 100 hospitals and health systems skilled in neuroscience and spine care. These standout programs are renowned for their exceptional patient outcomes, advanced surgical expertise and groundbreaking research discoveries.
The institutions featured on this list are home to world-class specialists and pioneering clinical initiatives. Many have earned national recognition for their spine and neuroscience programs from esteemed organizations such as U.S. News & World Report, Newsweek, Healthgrades and more.
Note: This list is not exhaustive, nor is it an endorsement of included hospitals, health systems or associated healthcare providers. Organizations cannot pay for inclusion on this list. Organizations are presented in alphabetical order. We extend a special thank you to Rhoda Weiss for her contributions to this list.
We accepted nominations for this list. Contact Anna Falvey at afalvey@beckershealthcare.com with questions or comments.
AdventHealth Orlando (Fla.). AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute’s team of neurosurgical care experts aim to ensure superior outcomes for patients. AdventHealth’s neurology and neurosurgery program is ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26 and is the only nationally ranked program of its kind in Central Florida. For multiple years, AdventHealth has had the lowest 30-day ischemic stroke mortality among the CMS population in the state and sixth lowest in the nation. Its “Destination Care” program, which attracts patients globally for complex neurological needs, includes programs such as endoscopic spine surgery and minimally invasive and noninvasive brain surgery. This also includes a long-standing gamma knife program that treats brain tumors, one of the nation’s few centers of excellence for the GammaTile advanced brain tumor treatment and one of the country’s busiest MRI-guided ultrasound programs for essential tremors. The institute has a comprehensive outpatient subspecialty neurology and outreach program treating conditions in movement, neuromuscular, memory, migraine, stroke and neuroimmunology. Its American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologies-accredited electroencephalogram lab is Central Florida’s only lab certified for both adults and children. Designated as a National Association of Epilepsy Centers level 4 epilepsy center, AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute provides complex forms of intensive neurodiagnostic monitoring, as well as extensive medical, neuropsychological and psychosocial treatment.
Allina Health (Minneapolis). The Allina Health Brain and Spine Institute delivers comprehensive neurological and spine care across three major Twin Cities hospitals and multiple regional sites, providing more than 116,000 annual visits and treating over 2,500 strokes each year. The institute’s multidisciplinary team includes 32 neurologists, 14 neurosurgeons, 15 orthopedic spine surgeons and over 75 advanced practice providers, offering patients seamless access to leading-edge diagnostics, advanced surgical techniques and post-acute rehabilitation. Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis and United Hospital in Saint Paul, Minn. are certified comprehensive stroke centers, and the system’s Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, Minn. is a primary plus stroke center, ensuring rapid response and treatment across the region. The institute leads in innovation, with Minnesota’s first focused ultrasound program for essential tremor, the adoption of RAPID.AI imaging for faster stroke triage, and the use of Vivistim implants to restore upper-limb mobility after stroke. The Givens Brain Tumor Center and Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute provide nationally recognized neuro-oncology care and recovery support, while partnerships with Twin Cities Spine Center sustain one of the nation’s longest-running spine fellowships. The institute was named among Newsweek‘s “World’s Best Specialized Hospitals for Neurology and Neurosurgery” in 2025.
Atlantic Health System (Morristown, N.J.). Atlantic Health System’s Atlantic Neuroscience Institute is New Jersey’s leading destination for comprehensive brain and spine care, supported by nearly 200 specialists. The system delivers statewide access to expert neurological care, including five certified stroke centers and centers of excellence in complex spine, brain tumors, epilepsy, memory disorders, movement disorders and neuromuscular disease. Its spine programs are distinguished by cutting-edge technologies, such as the nation’s first Airo CT combined with Cardan Robotics, which enhance precision, safety and outcomes in minimally invasive spine surgery. Overlook Medical Center in Summit, N.J. and Morristown Medical Center serve as level 4 epilepsy centers with advanced diagnostics like magnetoencephalography and functional brain mapping, while the Gerald J. Glasser Brain Tumor Center performs more brain tumor surgeries than any other program in New Jersey. Atlantic Health also offers comprehensive neuro-ICU services, the region’s largest CyberKnife program, and extensive rehabilitation services to support recovery across the continuum of care. The system is deeply involved in pioneering research and clinical trials, bringing first-in-nation treatments and new surgical approaches to patients.
Avala (Covington, La.). Avala’s spine and neurosurgery program blends clinical innovation, surgical precision and a deeply personal approach to patient healing. The program delivers a full continuum of care from diagnosis and imaging to surgery, inpatient recovery and rehabilitation, all within a single, integrated campus. Its multidisciplinary team of fellowship-trained spine surgeons, neurosurgeons, pain specialists and physical therapists collaborates to create individualized treatment plans, emphasizing conservative management before considering surgical intervention. Avala’s use of cutting-edge technology, including the Globus ExcelsiusGPS robotic navigation system and Excelsius3D intraoperative imaging platform, allows for extremely accurate minimally invasive procedures, improving outcomes and reducing recovery times. In 2023, Avala became one of only two hospitals nationwide to earn the DNV “Advanced Orthopedic and Spine Center of Excellence” designation with all four advanced certifications. Recognized nationally for its low complication rates and clinical integrity, the hospital achieved the lowest rate of unnecessary spinal fusion and laminectomy procedures in the nation, according to the Lown Institute. It also boasts quality metrics like a 0% surgical site infection rate, 92% ambulation on the day of surgery and a 96% home discharge rate. The hospital has earned multiple distinctions, including Blue Distinction Center+ for spine surgery, Healthgrades 5-stars rating for inpatient spinal fusion and U.S. News & World Report “high performing” status in back surgery.
Banner Alzheimer’s Institute and Banner Sun Health Research Institute (Arizona). With three centers of excellence for memory and movement disorders, Banner Alzheimer’s Institutes in Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz. and Banner Sun Health Research Institute in Sun City, Ariz., Banner Health has gained global recognition for its commitment to these disorders. Since 2006, the institutes have received more than $400 million in Banner-led grants from National Institutes of Health, $116 million in philanthropic donations and $2 billion in additional investments. The institutes have been responsible for multiple contributions to Alzheimer’s research, detection and treatment. These include the discovery of a rare genetic trait, as well as now opening a pathway to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s in people who risk developing the disease. These prevention therapies avert the onset of cognitive impairment in healthy people with blood test evidence of the disease within two years and a treatment that completely averts onset of Alzheimer’s disease in at-risk people within four years. The institutes played an industry-leading role in the FDA approval of two prevention therapies for early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. Establishment of the fluid biomarker program will play a leading role to find simpler, easier and less costly ways to evaluate a person’s risk. Banner Health totaled over 20,000 clinic visits across the specialty centers in 2024, with care provided by 28 employed providers, including subspecialty trained cognitive behavioral and movement disorder physicians, advanced practice providers, neuropsychologists and licensed clinical social workers.
Banner Health (Phoenix). Banner is a global leader in the treatment of diseases of the brain and spine, and in research and discovery of new therapies for neurological disorders. With nearly 125 physician specialists and surgeons, Banner has many “firsts” and “mosts” in neurological care, including world’s first-in-human stem cell transplantation for treating Parkinson’s disease and Western states’ first using a novel treatment for swallowing disorders. In Arizona, it is the first to use a new cranial implant to avoid the use of radiation to monitor skull repair patients more safely, first formal normal pressure hydrocephalus treatment program for instability while standing or walking, loss of bladder control and dementia-like symptoms, and the state’s most stroke interventions with clot removal performed, boasting 40% more than any system. Vizient named Banner Health as the best in the country for neurological spine programs for mortality. Banner’s broad-based research accomplishments earned American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Congress of Neurological Surgeons tumor section award for best research for an advanced immunotherapy vaccine trial against brain tumors. Banner’s research is changing the ways that strokes are diagnosed and treated, seizures managed and epileptic status is determined by testing brain electrical activity at the point of care. Banner physician scientists published over 2,800 articles in peer-reviewed, high-impact scientific and specialty journals. Since 2015, its residency and fellowship programs have trained over 80 neurologists and neurosurgeons. Banner is hosting the 2027 Congress of Neurological Surgeons in Phoenix, the largest neurosurgery meeting in the U.S.
Baptist Health (Coral Gables, Fla.). Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care unites the nationally recognized Marcus Neuroscience Institute in Boca Raton, Fla. and the Miami Neuroscience Institute at Baptist Hospital, delivering world-class neurological and spine care across South Florida and the Florida Keys. With more than 200 neuroscience providers and over 52,000 annual patient encounters, the system leads the region in innovation, outcomes and research. Marcus Neuroscience Institute achieved record-setting 7-minute stroke door-to-needle times, among the fastest in the nation, while both institutes maintain comprehensive stroke center certification and top-tier designations from The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association. Baptist Health also stands at the forefront of spine innovation, offering image-guided, robotic and augmented reality–assisted surgery, along with pioneering treatments such as high-intensity focused ultrasound for movement disorders and GammaTile therapy for brain tumors. With $75 million in philanthropic support and more than 45 active clinical trials in partnership with Duke University and Scripps Research, the system aims to expand access to transformative care. The system is ranked nationally by U.S. News & World Report for neurology and neurosurgery and earned “high performing” designation in stroke and back surgery.
Baptist Health (Jacksonville, Fla.). Lyerly Neurosurgery at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, part of Baptist Health, has been a pioneer in neurosurgical excellence since 1934. The practice’s nationally recognized neurosurgeons are leaders in minimally invasive spine surgery, having developed medical devices now used worldwide and trained peers across the country in advanced surgical techniques. As a core component of the Baptist Neurological Institute, Lyerly Neurosurgery provides patients with access to a full spectrum of multidisciplinary services, including neuro-oncology, cerebrovascular care and spine surgery, as well as participation in groundbreaking clinical trials. The Neuro-Oncology Clinic at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center integrates cutting-edge technology and targeted therapies following the same standards as the world-renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Meanwhile, the Baptist Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center leads in rapid-response stroke care, telemedicine outreach and advanced neuro-endovascular intervention. Its telestroke program connects over two dozen hospitals and emergency centers across Florida and South Georgia, providing 24/7 virtual access to stroke specialists and dramatically improving response times and outcomes. In research, Baptist Health and Lyerly Neurosurgery are participating in more than 35 active clinical trials, including international studies that were featured in The New England Journal of Medicine for their groundbreaking work in large ischemic stroke intervention. Lyerly neurosurgeons are also pioneering new frontiers in robotic-assisted spine surgery, brain aneurysm genetics and neurovascular innovation.
Barnes-Jewish Hospital (St. Louis). The Barnes-Jewish & Washington University Spine Center is one of the nation’s largest and most advanced clinical spine programs, treating a global referral base of patients with spinal injuries and disorders ranging from degenerative disease to complex deformities and spinal cord trauma. Its multidisciplinary team, comprising neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons and specialists in oncology, radiology and rehabilitation, collaborates to deliver personalized, evidence-based care through both surgical and non-surgical approaches. The center is internationally recognized for pioneering surgical innovations, including the development of the translaminar fixation technique for upper cervical spine instability, which has become a safer standard for C1–C2 stabilization. Specialists at the center perform minimally invasive procedures and complex reconstructions for conditions such as scoliosis, spinal tumors and intradural disorders, tailoring care to each patient’s specific diagnosis. The program’s physicians have published more peer-reviewed research on spinal surgery and disorders than nearly any other center in the country, underscoring its role in advancing spine science and clinical innovation. The hospital was ranked No. 17 nationally in neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2025–26.
BayCare Health System (Clearwater, Fla.). The BayCare Neuroscience Institute, part of BayCare Health System, offers world-class treatment through a network of 16 hospitals and more than a dozen certified stroke centers. As the largest nonprofit academic health system in the region, BayCare provides coordinated, multidisciplinary care for complex neurological conditions, including stroke, brain tumors, epilepsy, spine and neck disorders, and memory diseases. The institute’s hub-and-spoke stroke network features two comprehensive stroke centers, eight primary stroke centers and multiple acute stroke-ready facilities, ensuring that expert care is available systemwide. BayCare performs over 3,700 spinal surgeries annually, supported by a team of 15 neurosurgeons, 20 neurologists, six neuro-interventionalists and more than 20 orthopedic spine surgeons. The system has earned numerous accolades, including Healthgrades “America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery”, 5-star ratings for spinal fusion surgery, and multiple American Heart Association “Get With The Guidelines Gold Plus Awards” for stroke excellence. Innovation is central to BayCare’s mission, demonstrated by its integration of AI-driven imaging analysis through RapidAI and its tele-neurology partnership with TeleSpecialists. The institute is also advancing robotic-assisted brain and spine surgery, enhancing surgical precision and recovery. Through StrokeNet research participation, BayCare is helping develop next-generation treatments for stroke and neurodegenerative diseases, while its community outreach programs address health disparities and improve quality of life. With more than $700,000 dedicated to neuroscience research, BayCare’s focus on innovation, quality and efficiency has generated over $4.5 million in clinical savings and measurable improvements in patient outcomes.
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center (Houston). The Neuroscience Institute at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center, part of Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health and affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine, delivers advanced, multidisciplinary care across neurosurgery, spine, neurology and neurocritical care. This 1,041-bed quaternary care center integrates translational research, clinical innovation and Magnet-designated nursing excellence to achieve superior patient outcomes. The program features a DNV comprehensive stroke center, National Association of Epilepsy Centers level 4 epilepsy monitoring unit, and dedicated neurocritical and acute care units, providing the full continuum of neurological and spine services. Baylor St. Luke’s surgeons are national leaders in minimally invasive and image-guided procedures, pioneering the field of spinoplastic reconstruction to improve fusion durability and reduce surgical morbidity. The program’s researchers are advancing discovery through collaborations with NASA on brain health during spaceflight and global studies on coma outcomes, alongside National Institutes of Health-funded investigations totaling over $37 million across neuroscience and neurosurgery. The medical center is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 hospital for neurology and neurosurgery.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Boston). Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is home to one of the nation’s leading integrated programs for neurological and spine care, offering patients the latest therapies through expert collaboration across specialties. The Spine Center at BIDMC is uniquely co-led by a neurosurgeon, orthopedic surgeon and pain medicine specialist, bringing together board-certified Harvard Medical School faculty in neurology, physiatry, radiology and physical therapy to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. Recognized as a Blue Distinction Center+, the program treats the full spectrum of spinal disorders, from degenerative diseases and herniated discs to spinal deformities, trauma and tumors, emphasizing non-surgical approaches whenever possible. The center also provides advanced treatments such as spinal cord stimulation, offering minimally invasive options for patients with chronic pain. BIDMC’s department of neurology, with more than 70 neurologists and neuroscientists, delivers world-class care for complex neurological diseases, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders, all while advancing groundbreaking research and medical education. The medical center was ranked No. 47 in the nation for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26.
Boston Children’s Hospital. The spine division at Boston Children’s Hospital is the largest and busiest pediatric spine center in the United States, providing comprehensive care for thousands of children and young adults each year. Known globally for its expertise in scoliosis, spine deformities and trauma, the division collaborates closely with the department of neurosurgery to deliver safe, customized care for even the most complex spinal conditions. Boston Children’s emphasizes early, non-invasive treatments such as bracing and Schroth-based physical therapy, continuing the legacy of innovation that began with the development of the Boston Brace more than 40 years ago. For patients requiring surgery, the team employs advanced technologies to enhance safety, precision and recovery outcomes, including Mazor X Stealth robotic navigation, intraoperative O-arm CT imaging and magnetic growth rod systems. Specialized programs, like the complex cervical spine program and the spine and sports program, address unique pediatric and adolescent spine challenges, while initiatives such as the “SIMPeds” simulation program prepare families for surgery and recovery. Through leadership in national research collaborations, including the Harms Study Group and Pediatric Cervical Spine Study Group, Boston Children’s helps define best practices in pediatric spinal care. The program is ranked No. 2 nationally in pediatric neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report.
Boston Medical Center. Boston Medical Center’s departments of neurology and neurosurgery are nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report and recognized among Newsweek‘s “Best Neurological Hospitals” for their leadership in innovative, multidisciplinary neurological care. The hospital treats a full spectrum of neurological and neurosurgical disorders, including stroke, epilepsy, movement disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, brain and spine tumors, and traumatic brain and spinal injuries. As a comprehensive stroke center and National Association of Epilepsy Centers-accredited epilepsy center, the system provides care using state-of-the-art imaging, minimally invasive techniques and robotic technologies such as CyberKnife radiosurgery. Its nationally recognized programs include a center for comprehensive multiple sclerosis care and a Parkinson’s center of excellence, while its National Institutes of Health Alzheimer’s research center advances understanding of cognitive and memory disorders. The system also leads groundbreaking work in applying AI to stroke risk prediction and outcome modeling, with neurologists developing large language models to extract key diagnostic data from clinical notes. The recent opening of the system’s 3,000-square-foot clinical research unit is expanding opportunities for early-phase clinical trials and increasing access to cutting-edge therapies for diverse and underserved populations.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Boston). The neurosurgical spine service at Brigham and Women’s Hospital delivers advanced, multidisciplinary care for the full spectrum of spinal disorders, from herniated discs and degenerative disease to complex deformities and spinal tumors. Its team of neurosurgeons collaborates closely with specialists in physical medicine, neurology and pain management to provide individualized treatment plans that emphasize both surgical precision and functional recovery. The program offers expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery, motion-preserving arthroplasty, complex spinal reconstruction and multidisciplinary spinal tumor resection. Faculty are also active researchers and educators within Harvard Medical School’s neurosurgery department, advancing techniques in spine and peripheral nerve surgery while training future surgical leaders. Brigham and Women’s blends cutting-edge technology and academic rigor through specialized programs in adult scoliosis, neurosurgical pain and spinal oncology.
Carilion Clinic (Roanoke, Va.). The Carilion Clinic Institute for Orthopaedics and Neurosciences is Virginia’s largest academic orthopedic department and a regional destination for advanced spine and musculoskeletal care. Established in 2007, the spine surgery program leads the state in minimally invasive, robotic and endoscopic procedures, with five fellowship-trained spine surgeons and a multidisciplinary team delivering outcomes that exceed national benchmarks. Additionally, Carilion Clinic Neurosurgery has established itself as a leader in advanced neurosurgical care, offering comprehensive expertise with four dedicated neurosurgical practice locations, seven total clinical sites, and 9 fellowship-trained neurosurgeons. The departments’ close partnership with the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Fralin Biomedical Research Institute fuels over 100 active studies. The system recently completed a $500 million expansion of Roanoke Memorial Hospital, adding dedicated orthopedic and spine operating suites to support patient access and efficiency. The ortho team also leads spine care for Virginia Tech Athletics and multiple regional universities. Recognized with Magnet designation, Joint Commission certifications and Blue Distinction Center status, Carilion consistently achieves lower complication and readmission rates through its multidisciplinary spine council and overall dedication to spine care.
Cedars-Sinai (Los Angeles). The Cedars-Sinai Spine Center delivers comprehensive care for spinal disorders, combining the expertise of orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, physiatrists and pain management specialists to provide both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options. Its specialists treat patients of all ages with personalized, evidence-based care ranging from conservative therapies and interventional procedures to minimally invasive, robot-assisted and complex reconstructive surgeries. Cedars-Sinai’s peer-review model ensures that multiple faculty members evaluate each case collaboratively, aligning on the optimal treatment plan for every patient. The center includes one of the nation’s largest pediatric spine programs and a dedicated multidisciplinary team for spine tumors, integrating orthopedic, neurological and pediatric specialists with rehabilitation and pain management experts. Cedars-Sinai is also a national leader in spine education, offering accredited neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery residencies and a post-residency spinal surgery fellowship that trains future leaders in adult and adolescent spine care.
Children’s Health (Dallas). Children’s Health provides world-class, comprehensive care for infants through young adults with neurological disorders, earning national recognition from U.S. News & World Report as one of the country’s best pediatric neurology programs. Families from across the globe turn to Children’s Health experts for advanced diagnosis and treatment of both rare and common neurological conditions, from epilepsy and autism to genetic and neurodevelopmental disorders. The system’s specialists utilize cutting-edge tools such as level 3 and level 4 epilepsy monitoring units, genetic testing and gene therapies, and advanced neurosurgical techniques to treat complex brain and spinal conditions. In partnership with Dallas-based UT Southwestern, one of the nation’s leading biomedical research institutions, the system provides access to groundbreaking clinical trials and emerging therapies that give children new hope for recovery. Beyond medical care, the system offers robust family-centered support, including child life services, developmental behavioral programs, neuropsychology care and transition planning to adult services.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s neurology program provides care for infants, children and teens with a wide range of neurological conditions, ranging from common issues like headaches and seizures to rare disorders such as leukodystrophy and neuromyelitis optica. Led by nationally recognized pediatric neurologists, the program combines advanced neuroimaging, diagnostics and treatments with a child-centered approach tailored to each patient’s needs. Families benefit from multispecialty clinics that bring together experts across disciplines to deliver coordinated care in one location. Highlights include a level 4 comprehensive epilepsy center with an eight-bed monitoring unit, a developmental neurology program for autism and neurodevelopmental disorders, and specialized clinics for leukodystrophy, neurogenetic diseases and tuberous sclerosis complex. The program also supports patients through transition-to-adult-care services, ensuring continuity as teens mature. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has also launched innovative programs like the concussion program and complex headache clinic.
Children’s Hospital Colorado (Aurora). The Neuroscience Institute at Children’s Hospital Colorado is one of the largest and most advanced pediatric neurology and neurosurgery programs in the nation, known for clinical excellence, groundbreaking research and family-centered care. As the only National Association of Epilepsy Centers level 4 epilepsy center in the Rocky Mountain region, the hospital offers the most advanced diagnostic and surgical treatments for epilepsy and other complex neurological conditions. With over 40 physicians, 18 advanced practice providers and 10 neuropsychologists, the team provides comprehensive care for a wide spectrum of disorders, including neuromuscular disease, pediatric stroke, neurogenetic conditions and neurodevelopmental disorders. The institute leads more than 170 active research projects, supported by over $9.5 million in National Institutes of Health and other funding, driving discoveries in personalized medicine and neurotherapeutics. Recent milestones include the creation of the first FDA-approved, patient-specific drug for a child with Batten disease and the development of an innovative virtual reality program that transforms pediatric pain management and rehabilitation. Children’s Hospital Colorado is consistently ranked among the nation’s top hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report and Newsweek.
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is home to the Neurological Institute, the leading pediatric neurology and neurosurgery program in the western United States and one of the largest and busiest in the nation, with more than 32,000 annual visits and over 600 neurosurgeries performed each year. Ranked among the best children’s hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report year after year, the system is nationally recognized for excellence in treating complex brain and spinal conditions. The hospital’s scoliosis and spine program is ranked No. 1 on the West Coast and No. 4 in the nation, performing over 225 spine surgeries annually while maintaining exceptionally low complication and infection rates of less than 1%. Guided by a philosophy that prioritizes non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments whenever possible, the spine team collaborates closely with neurology, orthopedics, cardiology and pulmonary specialists to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care. CHLA is also one of the few pediatric centers in the U.S. offering magnetic expansion control growing rods for early-onset scoliosis. Supported by more than $15 million in research funding, CHLA’s Neurological Institute advances the field through groundbreaking studies and innovations in pediatric neuro-oncology, spinal surgery and fetal neurosurgery.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s pediatric neuroscience center includes more than 250 experts in epilepsy, leukodystrophies, headache, movement disorders, hydrocephalus, brain tumors and many other conditions. It has five designated centers of excellence for Friedreich ataxia, leukodystrophy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis and related disorders, and Rett syndrome, as well as an epilepsy neurogenetics program. Its pediatric movement disorders program is one of only a few dedicated pediatric movement disorders programs in the country. The organization’s divisions of neurology and neurosurgery are consistently ranked among the top 10 pediatric programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The neuroscience team is also conducting data-driven research to better understand nervous system functioning. This research is leading to improvements in how care is delivered and the development of new therapies for brain tumor patients, epilepsy patients, neuroinflammatory disease and more. Meanwhile, CHOP’s spine program offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment for children with spinal conditions.
Children’s National Hospital (Washington, D.C.). The spine program at Children’s National Hospital is a national leader in the treatment of pediatric spinal deformities, offering advanced, minimally invasive therapies designed to restore spinal health and function in children of all ages. The hospital’s specialists are at the forefront of innovation, from the pioneering Spinal Fusion Surgical Home, which delivers coordinated, family-centered surgical care, to the use of the magnetic expansion control growing rod system and halo gravity traction for complex scoliosis. As the highest-volume pediatric spine surgery program in the Washington, D.C. region, the hospital’s experienced surgeons and multidisciplinary team provide expert care for scoliosis, kyphosis, spondylolisthesis, congenital deformities, spinal tumors and traumatic injuries. Children’s National combines cutting-edge techniques with compassionate rehabilitation and physical therapy support to minimize pain and improve recovery. Through the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Surgical Innovation, the hospital’s physicians are advancing research on new spinal implants, surgical safety and outcomes optimization. Children’s National is an active member of the Scoliosis Research Society and the international Growing Spine Study Group.
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. The Crawford Spine Center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital is internationally recognized for its expertise in diagnosing and treating spinal injuries and conditions. As one of the nation’s leading pediatric spine programs, the center evaluates thousands of young patients each year and performs more than 200 spine surgeries, with many children continuing to receive follow-up care into adulthood. The multidisciplinary team, which includes orthopedic spine surgeons, neurosurgeons and rehabilitation specialists, provides individualized treatment for scoliosis, spinal deformities, fractures, infections, tumors and sports-related spine injuries. Emphasizing nonoperative approaches like bracing and casting whenever possible, the center also offers advanced surgical options such as minimally invasive and image-guided procedures developed in part by its own physicians. The Crawford Spine Center’s collaborative model ensures that each patient benefits from the combined expertise of specialists across Cincinnati Children’s. The hospital is consistently ranked among the nation’s best in neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report.
Cleveland Clinic. The Cleveland Clinic Center for Spine Health delivers multidisciplinary care for patients with conditions ranging from common back and neck pain to the most complex spinal deformities and tumors. Its nationally recognized specialists in orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery and medical spine collaborate to provide integrated, evidence-based care through medical, interventional and surgical treatments. The program is a national leader in minimally invasive and robotic spine surgery, offering advanced procedures such as spinal fusion, artificial disc replacement and complex deformity correction with high success rates and improved recovery times. Specialized programs, including the spinal deformity, spine tumor, peripheral nerve neurosurgery and comprehensive pain recovery programs, address the full spectrum of spine and nerve disorders with a precision-based, whole-person approach. The center also leads in research through Cleveland Clinic’s Neurological Institute, advancing clinical trials and data-driven innovation in spine and pain management. The center’s emphasis on patient-centered care helps set national standards for outcomes and innovation in spine medicine.
Covenant Health (Knoxville, Tenn.). Covenant Health, a nonprofit health system, delivers comprehensive neurological and spine care through its three spine centers at Fort Sanders Regional, Parkwest Medical Center and Methodist Medical Center, all in Knoxville. The program’s neurosurgeons and neurologists specialize in treating complex spinal, neurological and neuromuscular conditions using advanced, minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques that improve outcomes and recovery times. Covenant’s Thompson Proton Center, one of only 46 such centers in the nation, offers precision radiation therapy for brain and spinal tumors, while the Fort Sanders Gamma Knife Center provides noninvasive radiosurgery for brain disorders. The system also features East Tennessee’s only epilepsy monitoring unit, a network of Joint Commission–certified stroke hospitals, and extensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services through Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Hospital and Therapy Centers. Covenant’s tele-neurology and tele-ICU programs enhance access to expert care across its regional hospitals, ensuring continuity and safety for critically ill patients. Covenant Health’s spine and neuroscience offerings have been recognized by Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report.
Duke Health (Durham, N.C.). Duke Health’s neurosurgery and neurology program is ranked the highest in North Carolina by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26 and is nationally recognized for its spine and neuroscience expertise. The program provides state-of-the-art interdisciplinary care for conditions such as brain tumors, epilepsy, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, spinal tumors, spine trauma and deformity, and degenerative disc disease. Pediatric and adult specialists perform advanced procedures, including deep brain stimulation, responsive neurostimulation, high-intensity focused ultrasound, laser interstitial thermal therapy, minimally invasive and robotic-assisted spine surgery, and awake spinal fusion. The system is also a leader in brain tumor research, having co-developed a vaccine and pioneered a drug that has extended patient survival. As a regional referral center for complex brain and spine cases, the program draws patients from across the nation. Duke’s high-volume spine program supports strong clinical outcomes and ongoing innovation through research and innovative clinical trials. The integrated care team includes spine surgeons, neurologists, pain specialists, physiatrists, chiropractors and therapists working together to deliver coordinated, patient-centered care.
Emory Healthcare (Atlanta). Emory Healthcare delivers nationally recognized neurological and spine care powered by leading research, multidisciplinary expertise and one of the most comprehensive brain health programs in the country. Its department of neurology, which is ranked among the top hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report, offers specialized care for conditions including Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, cognitive disorders, neuromuscular diseases and more. As part of the Emory Brain Health Center, the system uniquely integrates neurology, psychiatry, neurosurgery, rehabilitation medicine and sleep medicine to deliver coordinated, patient-centered treatment informed by cutting-edge research, including National Institutes of Health-funded studies that place the institution among the nation’s top recipients. The Emory Spine Center adds equally robust expertise, providing tailored care delivered by board-certified neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, physiatrists, and therapists who specialize in both nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments. Patients benefit from innovative therapies, advanced diagnostics, and access to Georgia’s only hospital dedicated solely to orthopaedic and spine surgery. With multiple specialty centers, ranging from ALS and movement disorders to epilepsy and dizziness, the system offers comprehensive services across the full spectrum of neurological and spine conditions.
Endeavor Health (Evanston, Ill.). The Endeavor Health Neurosciences Institute is one of Illinois’ leading centers for advanced neurological and spine care, uniting more than 200 specialists across neurology, neurosurgery, neurointervention and rehabilitation. The institute offers high-acuity procedures using state-of-the-art technologies such as GammaTile therapy, MRI-guided laser ablation, 3D surgical modeling, cranial and spine navigation, and robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery. Endeavor Health also operates comprehensive spine centers that provide a streamlined, one-step referral process connecting patients with orthopedic spine surgeons, neurosurgeons, physiatrists and pain specialists, supported by behavioral health, acupuncture and rehabilitation services. Research is central to its mission, with groundbreaking programs like the “DodoNA” project, which uses genomic data from more than 9,800 patients to predict neurological outcomes, and the “LONG-PD” international study investigating the genetics of Parkinson’s disease. The system’s hospitals are nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report as No. 4 in Illinois and among the top 50 in the nation for neurology and neurosurgery, and they have earned multiple American Heart Association “Gold Plus” awards for excellence in stroke care. Endeavor Health also partners with the University of Chicago and University of Illinois to further education and innovation.
Englewood (N.J.) Health. Englewood Health is home to one of New Jersey’s leading neurosurgical and spine programs, offering advanced, tertiary-level care across northern New Jersey. With a team of 19 neurosurgeons, the system provides the full spectrum of spinal procedures, including artificial disc replacement, spinal fusion, tumor care and complex revision surgery. The hospital was the first in New Jersey to introduce the Excelsius Ecosystem, a robotic imaging and navigation platform that delivers GPS-like precision for minimally invasive spine surgery. Englewood has earned The Joint Commission’s “Gold Seal of Approval” for spinal fusion. Its neurosurgeons also collaborate closely with The Lefcourt Family Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center to treat spinal tumors using state-of-the-art imaging and radiation therapy. Englewood’s internationally recognized patient blood management program allows most elective spine surgeries to be performed without transfusions, ensuring safer outcomes and faster recovery. Englewood Health was named a “Best Regional Hospital” by U.S. News & World Report and has been the recipient of multiple Healthgrades awards.
Geisinger (Danville, Pa.). Geisinger’s neurosciences program delivers advanced, comprehensive care for neurological conditions, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and multidisciplinary expertise. Recognized as a level 4 epilepsy center and home to accredited neurophysiology labs, Geisinger provides state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, including epilepsy surgery and advanced imaging techniques. Geisinger excels in spinal surgery, neuro-oncology and neurovascular care, offering innovative treatments like the FDA-approved Optune device for glioblastoma and minimally invasive laser therapies. Designated as a comprehensive stroke center, Geisinger provides 24/7 stroke care and emergency neuro-interventional treatments. Its spinal care program is known for providing complex and minimally invasive center of excellence care to associates from the country’s largest employers and throughout the region. Through robust clinical trials and integrated care teams, Geisinger not only advances treatment modalities but also prioritizes improving the quality of life for patients with neurological and neurosurgical conditions.
Hackensack Meridian Health (Edison, N.J.). Hackensack Meridian Health delivers statewide, quaternary-level brain and spine care, performing over 5,400 neurosurgical procedures annually, including 1,750 spine surgeries, supported by 11,500 inpatient and 85,000 outpatient encounters. A deep bench of subspecialists, with over 50 spine surgeons across neurosurgery and orthopedics, as well as dedicated physiatrists and pain experts, provides conservative-first, multidisciplinary care on dedicated neuro units, with weekly case reviews to standardize best practices. The system has introduced category-leading technologies and firsts, including the world’s first pairing of ZAP-X gyroscopic radiosurgery with brain-only silent MRI at Neptune Township, N.J.-based Jersey Shore University Medical Center, high-intensity focused ultrasound and deep brain stimulation programs across campuses, systemwide robotic spine platforms like Mazor X Stealth, ExcelsiusGPS and Xvision, laser interstitial thermal therapy and ARTIS icono biplane suites. Outcomes and access are strengthened by network-wide quality councils, real-time dashboards tracking length-of-stay and readmissions, and targeted innovations such as pharyngeal electrical stimulation for post-stroke dysphagia and early adoption of QALSODY for genetic ALS. The research portfolio includes National Institutes of Health awards, ALS and MS clinical trials, and AI partnerships to advance neuro-oncology decision-support. Recognition spans Hackensack (N.J.) University Medical Center’s place on the national Honor Roll and No. 1 in New Jersey, comprehensive stroke center certification, the National Association of Epilepsy Centers level 4 epilepsy designations at two system hospitals, and multiple Healthgrades and American Heart Association “Stroke Gold Plus” honors systemwide.
Hartford (Conn.) HealthCare. Hartford HealthCare’s Ayer Neuroscience Institute and Comprehensive Spine Program is nationally recognized for its diagnosis, treatment and research of complex brain, spine, and nervous system conditions. With more than 300 physicians and advanced practice providers across 37 ambulatory locations and all seven of the system’s acute-care hospitals, the Institute delivers world-class neurological and spine care through its innovative, systemwide “Institute Model”. It is home to New England’s first Joint Commission–designated comprehensive stroke center, the Northeast’s first Parkinson’s Foundation comprehensive care center, and Connecticut’s first high-intensity focused ultrasound program for essential tremor. The multidisciplinary comprehensive spine program integrates the expertise of orthopedic and neurosurgeons, achieving some of the nation’s best outcomes in length of stay, complication rates and patient experience, ranking in the top decile nationally. In 2024, Hartford HealthCare opened six new operating rooms designed exclusively for advanced spine surgery. Four system hospitals were the first in the country to earn The Joint Commission’s advanced certification in spine surgery, while multiple facilities earned U.S. News & World Report “high performing” status for spine fusion and consistent Leapfrog “A” safety ratings.
HonorHealth (Scottsdale, Ariz.). HonorHealth Neuroscience & Spine Program is a leading regional destination for comprehensive neurological and spine care, combining state-of-the-art technology, advanced research and multidisciplinary expertise across its nine-hospital system. With three level 1 trauma centers, a comprehensive stroke center, and seven certified stroke centers of excellence, HonorHealth provides rapid, high-quality, coordinated care for even the most complex neurological emergencies. The Bob Bové Neuroscience Institute, a 120,000-square-foot facility uniting neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, stroke, rehabilitation and research, serves as the system’s hub. Its teams perform cutting-edge procedures such as deep brain stimulation, GammaTile therapy and robotic-assisted spine surgery. In addition, the institute advances care through more than 60 active clinical trials and innovative protocols like ketogenic diet therapy for gliomas. The program’s dedication to quality is reflected in its 100% compliance rate for chemoprophylaxis in traumatic brain injury patients and a reduction in postoperative hemorrhage rates to zero in 2025. With Magnet designations, multiple “Beacon Awards for Excellence” from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, and DNV comprehensive stroke center accreditation, HonorHealth combines high-acuity expertise, research-driven progress and exceptional outcomes.
Hospital for Special Surgery (New York City). The Hospital for Special Surgery is an internationally recognized leader in spine care, providing advanced treatment for more than 22,000 patients each year. The Complex Spine and Scoliosis Center unites world-renowned orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons and neurologists to manage the full range of spinal disorders with both surgical and nonsurgical approaches. The center treats disorders ranging from degenerative disease and deformity to trauma and revision surgery. HSS performs over 4,000 spine procedures annually, among the highest volumes nationwide, with consistently superior clinical outcomes and one of the lowest infection rates in the country. The center’s specialists are pioneers in minimally invasive and motion-preserving spine surgery techniques, reducing pain, accelerating recovery and improving long-term function. HSS is ranked the No. 1 hospital in the U.S. for orthopedics according to U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26 and has been recognized among “America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery” by Healthgrades from 2021–2025. Complementing its surgical expertise, the Marcia Dunn and Jonathan Sobel Department of Neurology provides multidisciplinary care for neuromuscular and spine-related neurological disorders, integrating advanced diagnostics and intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring to ensure optimal outcomes for every patient.
Houston Methodist. The Spine & Peripheral Nerve Center at Houston Methodist Neurological Institute provides advanced, multidisciplinary care for both common and complex spinal disorders. Its team of spine surgeons, recognized among the most experienced in Houston, specializes in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures to improve precision, reduce complications and shorten recovery times. The program is one of the few in the region with expertise in endoscopic spine surgery, an outpatient technique that minimizes tissue disruption and postoperative pain while preserving healthy muscle and ligaments. Houston Methodist’s surgeons also perform complex spinal reconstructions, deformity corrections and tumor resections with advanced image-guided and robotic technologies. Ongoing clinical trials focus on spinal cord injury recovery and postoperative pain reduction, underscoring the center’s commitment to innovation and improved patient outcomes. The system is currently ranked No. 15 nationally and as the best in Texas for neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report.
Inova (Falls Church, Va.). The Inova Spine Program delivers spine care through an integrated network of neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists, anesthesiologists and dedicated nurse navigators, ensuring every patient receives seamless, personalized treatment. Inova is the only health system in the Mid-Atlantic with four Joint Commission “Gold Seal”–certified spine centers, reflecting its commitment to quality and consistency across all five hospitals. Patients benefit from a structured care pathway featuring “enhanced recovery after surgery” protocols, pre-procedure optimization and robust education resources, all supported by dedicated spine nurse navigators who guide patients from evaluation through recovery. The program’s strong emphasis on data-driven quality improvement includes monthly multidisciplinary reviews of outcomes, operational metrics and patient experience, fostering continuous advancement and collaboration. Recent innovations include the adoption of Arthrex Imaging for greater surgical precision, facility modernization, and the expansion of Alzheimer’s and ALS programs. Inova Alexandria (Va.) Hospital was named “high performing” in back surgery and spinal fusion by U.S. News & World Report, while the system as a whole remains an active member of the American Spine Registry.
Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital (Salt Lake City). Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report in all 11 pediatric specialties, including neurology and neurosurgery, reflecting its reputation as one of the nation’s premier destinations for pediatric brain and spine care. The hospital’s comprehensive epilepsy program, alongside specialized programs for dysautonomia, headache, leukodystrophy, neuro-autoimmune, neuromuscular, stroke and vascular disorders, provides children access to world-class expertise and the latest neurological advancements. The hospital’s accredited electroencephalogram and electromyography laboratories use state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of neurological and neuromuscular conditions with precision and safety. Intermountain’s specialists deliver minimally invasive, personalized care by employing advanced imaging and surgical tools, including functional MRI, PET scans, ROSA brain robotics, transcranial magnetic stimulation and Wada testing. Family-centered care is at the heart of the program, with parents encouraged to participate throughout testing and treatment to ensure comfort and understanding.
Jefferson Health (Philadelphia). Jefferson Health delivers comprehensive, research-driven neurological and spine care led by nationally recognized specialists dedicated to improving function, safety and quality of life for patients with both common and complex conditions. As part of the Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, the region’s only dedicated hospital for neurological care, patients receive expert evaluation and treatment from teams specializing in stroke, epilepsy, movement disorders, memory disorders, multiple sclerosis, ALS and more. Jefferson is home to multiple nationally accredited programs, including a level 4 epilepsy center, Parkinson’s Foundation center of excellence, ALS certified treatment center and comprehensive stroke centers across several hospitals. Patients also benefit from Jefferson’s pioneering use of advanced diagnostics, a high-tech mobile robotic system for rapid neurovascular assessment and access to cutting-edge clinical trials that offer emerging therapies for epilepsy, neurodegenerative disease and sleep disorders. The Jefferson Neuroscience Network connects more than 30 regional hospitals, ensuring 24/7 access to specialized expertise, particularly in time-sensitive emergencies like stroke. Spine care is equally comprehensive, combining experts from neurosurgery, orthopedics and rehabilitation to provide personalized treatment plans ranging from physical therapy and minimally invasive techniques to advanced disc replacement and spinal fusion.
Johns Hopkins Medicine (Baltimore). The Johns Hopkins Neurosurgical Spine Center provides advanced care for patients with degenerative spine disease, spinal deformities and spinal tumors, focusing on pain relief, function restoration and minimally invasive treatment. Its team of neurosurgeons collaborates closely with specialists in orthopedics, neurology, pain management and rehabilitation to deliver evidence-based care for conditions such as herniated discs, scoliosis, spinal stenosis and metastatic spinal tumors. The center is recognized for pioneering surgical innovations including sacral-alar-iliac fusion and robotic-assisted hardware placement to improve precision and outcomes in complex spine surgeries. Intraoperative CT and advanced image-guided navigation enable safe resection of spinal tumors once considered inoperable. Supported by extensive research infrastructure, the program houses multiple specialized labs focused on spinal oncology, fusion and surgical outcomes, as well as the HEPIUS Innovation Lab, which unites biomedical engineers and neurosurgeons to develop new diagnostics and treatments for spinal cord injury. Johns Hopkins also trains the next generation of spine specialists through its instructorship and fellowship programs, reinforcing its leadership in clinical care, research and education in spine neurosurgery.
Keck Medicine of USC (Los Angeles). The USC Spine Center at Keck Medicine of USC delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care for the full spectrum of spinal disorders, combining the expertise of orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons and interventional pain specialists. As a leading tertiary referral center for Southern and Central California, the program is recognized for managing some of the most complex spine cases in the region. Each case is reviewed in weekly multidisciplinary conferences to ensure optimal treatment planning and continuous quality improvement. The spine center’s faculty are international leaders in their field, holding key roles in national and global spine societies and frequently serving as keynote speakers and organizers for major academic conferences. The center integrates clinical excellence with education, offering premier training for medical students, residents and fellows in the latest surgical and non-surgical spine techniques. With expertise in both robotic and endoscopic spine surgery and a robust research portfolio spanning spine biology, spinal cord injury and cervical myelopathy, the USC Spine Center advances Keck Medicine’s mission of furthering innovation, education and exceptional patient outcomes.
LCMC Health (New Orleans). LCMC Health Neuroscience Institute unites one of the Gulf South’s largest and most advanced teams of neurosurgeons, neurologists and spine specialists, with more than 50 dedicated providers. The institute delivers a full spectrum of high-acuity neurological and spine care across its approximately 2,000-bed system. Anchored by University Medical Center New Orleans, the region’s only level I trauma center and an academic partner to LSU Health and Tulane, the institute provides advanced treatment for brain and spinal cord injuries, stroke, tumors and degenerative spine conditions using minimally invasive, image-guided and stereotactic surgical techniques. Two of the system’s hospitals have earned The Joint Commission’s “Gold Seal of Approval” as primary stroke centers and multiple American Heart Association “Get With The Guidelines” awards for their excellence in stroke care, while two others extend specialized neuro and spine services throughout the community. Recent systemwide innovations include the opening of a dedicated neuro intensive care unit, the launch of the “Healthy Brain Aging Initiative” for dementia prevention and cognitive health, and the integration of the Culicchia Neurological Clinic to expand subspecialty expertise. LCMC Health also invests heavily in neuroscience research, contributing $5 million to a joint research fund with LSU and committing an additional $50 million to multidisciplinary clinical and translational programs. The program has also enhanced recovery protocols, reduced readmission and complication rates, and received consistently high patient satisfaction scores.
Loyola Medicine (Maywood, Ill.). Loyola Medicine’s departments of orthopaedic surgery and neurological surgery deliver world-class neuro-spine care. As an integrated academic health system and level 1 trauma center, the system combines the expertise of orthopedic spine and neurosurgical specialists with physical medicine, pain management, radiation oncology and neurology to manage the most complex cases, ranging from spinal deformities and degenerative disease to trauma and spinal oncology. The program is recognized for its precision in minimally invasive and image-guided spine procedures, using advanced surgical navigation systems that enhance safety and reduce recovery times. The system’s faculty also contributes to biomechanical research and regional spine boards, establishing the hospital as a thought leader in the field. With a comprehensive stroke center, a level 4 epilepsy center, state-of-the-art MRI technology and a collaborative team model, Loyola provides a full continuum of neurological and spine services within one system. Recognized as a Blue Distinction Center+ for spine surgery and an Aetna “Institute of Quality Facility” for orthopedic and spine care, Loyola receives more than $1.3 million in active research funding.
Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. The division of pediatric neurology at Lurie Children’s Hospital is one of the nation’s most comprehensive programs of its kind, providing expert, family-centered care for infants, children and teens with neurological conditions. One in three children hospitalized at Lurie Children’s is seen by the neurology team, which brings expertise in diagnosing and treating complex disorders such as epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, movement disorders, stroke and neuroimmunologic diseases. The team comprises pediatric neurologists, advanced practice providers and nurses, as well as collaborating neurosurgeons, neurointensivists and neuro-oncologists, all working together under one roof to deliver personalized care. The division offers an extensive range of specialized programs, from the epilepsy genetics clinic and neurocritical care program to the complex movement disorders and neurovascular disease centers. Families benefit from state-of-the-art technology and the hospital’s commitment to integrating care into daily life. The hospital’s physician-scientists are also advancing groundbreaking studies aimed at improving treatments for children with rare and hard-to-treat neurological conditions.
Mass General Brigham (Boston). Led by its academic medical centers, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Mass General Brigham neurosurgery is home to 79 staff neurosurgeons who performed more than 9,600 surgeries, more than 30% of which were spinal procedures. The neurosurgical spine service is known for complex spine surgery, particularly spine tumor, deformity and minimally invasive surgery using advancements such as augmented reality technology. Mass General Brigham also features specialists in focused ultrasound procedures for essential tremor and arteriovenous malformation surgery. In addition to patient care, the program features a robust educational mission with seven fellowships that include specialties like spinal neurosurgery, functional neurosurgery, neuroendocrine surgery, cerebrovascular/endovascular surgery and neuro-oncology. A nationally recognized research leader, Mass General Brigham neurosurgery manages a more than $30 million annual research budget across 24 labs, totaling 36,871 square feet of research space and led by 42 research faculty investigators. Research areas of focus include AI, biomechanics, mechanobiology, patient-centered clinical outcomes, CAR-T therapy for brain cancer, cell therapy for Parkinson’s treatment, and the assessment of brain signals via a responsive neurostimulation program.
Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.). The Mayo Clinic Spine Center delivers care across its Arizona, Florida and Minnesota campuses, treating thousands of patients annually with complex spinal and limb disorders. Its care model integrates specialists in neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, radiology, anesthesiology, pain medicine and rehabilitation, supported by experts in psychiatry, nutrition and integrative medicine to ensure fully personalized treatment plans. The team emphasizes conservative management like physical therapy, interventional pain procedures and regenerative medicine, reserving surgery for cases where it can meaningfully improve quality of life. Advanced diagnostic tools, including 3D modeling, CT myelography and neuroimaging, enable precise evaluation and tailored interventions. The program leads innovation in minimally invasive spine surgery, regenerative medicine and proton therapy, supported by active clinical research in stem cell treatments for degenerative spine conditions. Additionally, Mayo Clinic’s neurosurgical services rank among the most advanced globally, with surgeons performing over 9,300 complex procedures each year using technologies such as robotics, intraoperative MRI and stereotactic radiosurgery.
Memorial Hermann Health System (Houston). Memorial Hermann’s neuroscience program is one of the nation’s most comprehensive and innovative centers for neurological and spine care, integrating neurology, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, neurorehabilitation and research across 11 hospitals throughout Southeast Texas. With more than 200 specialists, the program delivers coordinated, end-to-end care for over 500 neurological conditions ranging from brain and spinal tumors to stroke, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury and complex spine disorders. Memorial Hermann was the first in Texas to offer the full spectrum of advanced neurosurgical modalities and remains a national leader in stroke care, operating the world’s first DNV-certified mobile stroke unit. Its TIRR Memorial Hermann rehabilitation hospital, consistently ranked among the nation’s best, provides world-class recovery services for brain and spinal cord injuries. The program has achieved American Heart Association “Gold Plus” and “Honor Roll Elite” awards across multiple campuses for excellence in stroke treatment. Recent innovations include piloting AI-supported Ceribell electroencephalogram technology to accelerate seizure diagnosis and establishing a systemwide Neuro-Interventional Council to standardize best practices. The system boasts nationally ranked adult and pediatric neurology and neurosurgery programs recognized by U.S. News & World Report.
MemorialCare (Fountain Valley, Calif.). MemorialCare Neurosciences Institute treats thousands each year through surgical and nonsurgical interventions at Long Beach (Calif.) Medical Center, Fountain Valley-based Orange Coast Medical Center and Laguna Hills, Calif.-based Saddleback Medical Center and clinics, as well as physical therapy, surgery and imaging centers. Neurologists and neurosurgeons who serve as leaders in patient care, research and education are supported by clinical and rehabilitative specialists. As a Joint Commission-accredited comprehensive stroke center and American Heart Association “Gold Plus” stroke program, Long Beach Medical Center offers advanced, timely care when every second counts. A Joint Commission thrombectomy-capable stroke center specializing in clot retrieval, Saddleback Medical Center ensures access to timely stroke treatment. For epilepsy diagnosis and treatment, Long Beach Medical Center is one of just seven California hospitals with merican Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologists LAB-long-term monitoring accreditation for excellence in electroencephalogram long-term monitoring. For those suffering from essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease, Orange Coast Medical Center’s MR-guided focused ultrasound is a groundbreaking, less invasive alternative to surgery. Each hospital’s spine center offers individualized care from back pain to surgery. Advanced technology increases precision and accuracy and reduces recovery time, thanks to ExcelsiusGPS and Stryker Q Guidance with Copilot for spine surgeries. Long Beach Medical Center and Orange Coast Medical Center had U.S. News & World Report “high-performing” rankings for neurology and neurosurgery, and all three hospitals were listed for back surgery/spinal fusion and stroke. Long Beach Medical Center was again named among “America’s Best Neurological Hospitals” by Newsweek.
MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach (Calif.). The neurology center at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s offers a multi-disciplinary approach to care for children with developmental conditions, neurological and spine disorders. Expert pediatric teams consisting of neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, spine surgeons and physiatrists treat children of all ages, continuing treatment and care into adulthood alongside its nationally known sister hospital, MemorialCare Long Beach (Calif.) Medical Center, located on the same campus. Pediatric neurologists diagnose and treat various neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, migraines, attention deficit disorder and Guillain-Barré syndrome. It is one of only seven hospitals in California with American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologists long-term monitoring accreditation for epilepsy care. Physicians also treat brain tumors and collaborate with neurosurgeons and hematologists/oncologists to create leading treatment plans for optimal outcomes. Its EOS imaging system uses two to three times less radiation than X-rays and offers extremely detailed images of patients in a standing position, lowering lifetime radiology dosing. As California’s only children’s hospital with ExcelsiusGPS robotic navigation technology for kids, state-of-the-art equipment creates a 7D surgical platform for intraoperative navigation in spinal deformity surgeries to eliminate radiation exposure, cut operative times and improve accurate screw placements. Its bone and soft tissue tumor program is the area’s only hospital with a fellowship-trained surgeon in pediatric orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal oncology.
Michigan Medicine (Ann Arbor). The University of Michigan Health’s comprehensive spine program provides multidisciplinary, evidence-based care for the full spectrum of spinal disorders, uniting experts in neurosurgery, orthopedics, pain management and rehabilitation to deliver personalized treatment plans. The program emphasizes a conservative-first approach, beginning with noninvasive therapies such as physical therapy, pain management and functional restoration before advancing to surgical options when appropriate. Its specialists perform advanced procedures including minimally invasive, endoscopic and robotic-assisted spine surgeries, as well as disc replacement, deformity correction and tumor resection. Patients benefit from integrated services such as electromyography, manual medicine and vocational rehabilitation, designed to optimize function and quality of life. With nearly a century of experience and innovation, U-M Health offers one of the most comprehensive spine programs in the country, achieving exceptional outcomes for patients with even the most complex spinal conditions.
Montefiore Einstein (Bronx, N.Y.). The Montefiore Spine Center is one of the most comprehensive and outcomes-driven spine programs in the Northeast, uniting physiatrists, anesthesiologists, interventional pain specialists, orthopedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons under one collaborative model. This multidisciplinary approach eliminates fragmented care, allowing seamless transitions between conservative management and surgical intervention while maintaining continuity with the same expert team. The center integrates research directly into clinical practice, with faculty leading landmark studies on complication prevention, risk stratification and predictors of recovery, all resulting in measurable improvements such as shorter surgical duration, reduced complications and decreased hospital stays. Montefiore has recently expanded its reach with new spine centers, bringing its integrated model to new patients. The center is also a regional leader in basivertebral nerve ablation, a minimally invasive treatment for vertebrogenic low back pain that offers long-term relief for patients with limited prior options. Montefiore is ranked among the nation’s best hospitals for neurology, neurosurgery and orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report.
Mount Sinai Health System (New York City). The department of neurosurgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is a global leader in academic neurosurgery, ranked No. 1 in New York State and No. 15 nationally for National Institutes of Health funding. Its 63-member team performs more than 3,400 open neurosurgeries, 2,500 endovascular procedures and 325 stroke thrombectomies each year, treating the full spectrum of brain, spine and nervous system disorders. Mount Sinai’s faculty are pioneers in brain-computer interface technology, leading first-in-human clinical trials of minimally invasive neural implants that enable paralyzed patients to control digital devices by thought. The department’s academic research organization oversees 191 active clinical trials and has secured over $27 million in research funding, driving discovery in cerebrovascular, spinal and neuromodulation therapies. In 2025, Mount Sinai will open a clinical neurosciences center to centralize care for movement disorders, epilepsy and psychiatric neurosurgery, enhancing integration of research and patient access. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 11 program in neurology and neurosurgery, the program is also ranked No. 8 in the nation by Newsweek. Mount Sinai Spine, part of the Mount Sinai Health System and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, is a nationally recognized center of excellence pioneering the use of machine-vision navigation, augmented reality and AI-driven surgical planning. The program also advances research in AI-based outcome prediction and next-generation navigation systems.
NYU Langone (New York City). The NYU Langone Spine Center provides comprehensive care for more than 25,000 adults and children annually, offering both nonsurgical and surgical treatments for degenerative spine conditions and complex spinal deformities. Its multidisciplinary team of 30 specialists, including internationally recognized orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons, performs over 4,700 spine procedures each year while emphasizing conservative, patient-centered care. NYU Langone Health has pioneered minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery techniques that have transformed postoperative pain management; a 2024 study demonstrated a 21% reduction in opioid use and a 24% reduction in nonopioid pain medication following these procedures. The program benefits from a robust research enterprise, with more than $5 million in combined funding across its neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery departments. Its collaborative, system-based model streamlines care to reduce unnecessary visits and improve outcomes. NYU Langone’s excellence in neurological and spine care is recognized nationally, with the health system ranked No. 1 in neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital (Columbus, Ohio). The Center for Comprehensive Spine Care at Nationwide Children’s Hospital provides individualized, family-centered treatment for children and young adults with spinal conditions ranging from mild back pain to complex deformities. Led by four expert pediatric spine surgeons, the program delivers advanced, team-based care using the latest surgical and nonsurgical innovations. Every spine surgery at Nationwide Children’s is performed by two surgeons, ensuring greater precision, safety and outcomes, an approach that contributes to some of the lowest post-infection rates in the country. The hospital’s specialists manage the full spectrum of spinal disorders, including scoliosis, kyphosis, cerebral palsy-related deformities, trauma, stress fractures and spinal muscular atrophy. The team uses cutting-edge technologies such as magnetic expansion control and vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib rods for early-onset scoliosis and vertebral body tethering for motion-preserving correction as children grow. Working closely with colleagues in neurosurgery, neurology, rehabilitation, sports medicine and physical therapy, the center provides coordinated care that supports every aspect of a child’s health and development.
Nebraska Medicine (Omaha). The Neurosciences Center serves Nebraska and western Iowa as the region’s leading neurology and neurosurgery provider. It holds multiple designations, serving as Nebraska’s only Joint Commission comprehensive stroke center, North American Skull Base Society center of distinction, ALS and Huntington’s disease center of excellence, level 4 epilepsy center and National MS Society comprehensive care center. The center pioneered CAR-T therapy for multiple sclerosis and offers advanced treatments, including endoscopic/robotic spine surgery, deep brain stimulation, vagal nerve stimulation for depression, and approved infusions for ALS and Alzheimer’s. It operates one of only about 30 magnetoencephalography scanners nationally for diagnosing epilepsy, dementia and movement disorders. Beyond clinical care, the center advances healthcare informatics through its partnership with the National Institutes of Health “Data Collect Once, Use Numerous Times” project, and fosters research and education as a leader supported by the National Institutes of Health “Great Plains Institutional Development Award for Clinical and Translational Research”.
NewYork-Presbyterian (New York City). Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian unites top orthopedic and neurological spine surgeons with nonoperative and rehabilitation experts to deliver spine care for both adults and children. Its multidisciplinary team treats the full spectrum of spine conditions, from common degenerative disorders and herniated discs to complex deformities and spinal tumors, prioritizing nonsurgical approaches whenever possible. Specialists across neurology, pain management, radiology and physical therapy collaborate to develop personalized, minimally invasive treatment plans supported by advanced imaging and precision techniques. The center’s new flagship facility, Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian/The Spiral, expands access to spine care across the tri-state area with on-site radiology, rehabilitation and diagnostic services. Internationally recognized orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons at Och Spine perform some of the nation’s most complex spinal reconstructions using cutting-edge, motion-preserving surgical methods.
Northwell Health (New Hyde Park, N.Y.). Northwell Health’s neurosurgery program offers world-class care for a full spectrum of neurological and neurosurgical conditions, providing patients with seamless access to Long Island’s largest and one of the nation’s most comprehensive neurosurgery departments. The program’s distinguished team of neurosurgeons and specialists delivers individualized, evidence-based care for brain, spine and cerebrovascular disorders, including aneurysms, brain and spinal tumors, stroke, traumatic injuries and complex spinal deformities. Combining expertise in both surgical and nonsurgical interventions, the team specializes in advanced procedures such as minimally invasive skull base and endoscopic surgery, deep brain stimulation, cerebral bypass, and endovascular treatments for aneurysms and vascular malformations. Northwell’s approach, which brings together neurosurgery, orthopedics, rehabilitation and pain management, ensures every patient receives a coordinated, personalized care plan. Supported by the expansive research and innovation network of Northwell Health, the department pioneers groundbreaking techniques and technologies that advance outcomes in brain and spine care.
Northwestern Medicine (Chicago). The Northwestern Medicine Center for Spine Health is the only spine program in Illinois to integrate orthopedic and neurological surgeons within a single clinic, offering patients fully coordinated care for complex spine disorders. The center’s multidisciplinary team spans physical medicine, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, neuropsychology and musculoskeletal radiology, providing individualized treatment plans that emphasize nonsurgical solutions whenever possible. When surgery is needed, specialists employ advanced techniques including minimally invasive and computer-navigated procedures, stereotactic radiosurgery and regenerative or nanotechnology-based bone graft substitutes. The program treats the full spectrum of spine conditions, from spinal deformity and degenerative disk disease to trauma, oncology and work- or sports-related injuries. Its technology-driven approach enables precise diagnosis and targeted intervention, with computer-assisted imaging guiding optimal treatment pathways. Ranked No. 6 nationally for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2025–26, Northwestern Memorial Hospital continues its 14-year distinction as Illinois’ top-ranked hospital.
Norton Healthcare (Louisville, Ky.). Kenton D. Leatherman, MD, the program namesake of Norton Leatherman Spine, was the first doctor in Kentucky to repair scoliosis surgically, and the program’s specialists continue to build on innovation in delivering patient care. With 45 orthopedic spine surgeons, neurosurgeons and pain management specialists, Norton Healthcare was the first health system in the nation to be recognized as an advanced orthopedic and spine center of excellence by DNV. Norton Leatherman Spine was the first in the world to perform robotic spine surgery using the Medtronic Mazor X Stealth Edition and the first in the state of Kentucky to use EOS imaging system, a high resolution image system with less radiation exposure than traditional X-rays and CT scans. Training the next generation of specialists continues to be a priority for the program, with a fellowship program that boosts more 150 trained fellows.
Novant Health (Winston-Salem, N.C.). Novant Health Neurosciences Institute provides comprehensive neurological and spine care, offering treatment across more than 230 physicians and advanced practice providers throughout the Carolinas. The institute delivers expertise in stroke, epilepsy, neuromuscular and movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, spine and brain tumors, and memory and pediatric neurological conditions. With three Joint Commission–certified comprehensive stroke centers, eight primary stroke centers and a DNV-certified comprehensive stroke hospital, Novant Health consistently earns “Gold Plus” recognition from the American Heart Association for excellence in stroke care. Its spine program integrates innovative, minimally invasive techniques such as lateral lumbar interbody fusion, minimally invasive lumbar decompression and Evoke spinal cord stimulation, achieving national recognition with multiple Joint Commission spine certifications, Blue Distinction designations, and five U.S. News & World Report “high performing” ratings for spinal fusion in 2025. Novant Health is also the first in North Carolina to use the Woven EndoBridge embolization system for brain aneurysms and one of the first nationwide to offer the VYALEV pump for Parkinson’s disease. With the addition of the renowned Southeastern Spine Institute and Spine & Scoliosis Specialists, the system has expanded access to top-tier spine and neurological care across both states. The institute also utilizes breakthrough technologies like MRI-guided ultrasound thalamotomy and AI-powered stroke triage.
OSF HealthCare (Peoria, Ill.). OSF HealthCare Illinois Neurological Institute is a regional destination for complex neuro and spine services, drawing patients from 51 counties across Illinois. The program provides a full continuum of care through community clinics and is home to the only fellowship-trained spine surgeons in the Peoria and Bloomington, Ill. regions, including a fellowship-trained spine oncologist. The team performs over 1,000 spine surgeries annually, more than any other hospital system in Central Illinois, and ranks as the second-largest program in the state. Surgical volumes include 44% cervical, 42% lumbar and 14% thoracic cases, with 24% of procedures performed for emergent, urgent or trauma needs. Of the surgeries performed, 70% are inpatient, and 37% of those carry a Medicare “severity diagnosis related group” code of six or higher. OSF surgeons also offer minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery, enabling smaller incisions, faster recovery and fewer side effects. Supported by research, technology and clinical trials, the program maintains a readmission rate of just 6.25%. The institute’s Multiple Sclerosis Center, designated by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society as a center for comprehensive multiple sclerosis care, treats and supports more than 2,300 ambulatory unique patients with an MS diagnosis.
OU Health (Oklahoma City, Okla.). OU Health’s neurosurgery and spine program delivers integrated care as part of the University of Oklahoma’s academic health system. The program includes 19 adult and pediatric neurosurgeons and spine surgeons, four medical neuro-oncologists, one interventional pain specialist, 10 advanced practice providers and 12 research faculty. Its surgeons are fellowship-trained in complex spine, open vascular, endovascular, brain tumor, pediatrics and trauma. The team performs more than 5,500 surgeries annually, with spinal procedures comprising a significant share. OU Health offers advanced interventions, including minimally invasive spine and epilepsy surgery, spine deformity correction, skull base tumor surgery, focused ultrasound and deep brain stimulation. The program achieved several Oklahoma firsts: focused ultrasound for movement disorders, laser ablation for epilepsy and responsive neurostimulation device placement. It operates the region’s only adult spina bifida clinic and has the only fellowship-trained neuro-trauma surgeon in the area. Education is central, with fellowships in pediatrics, skull base, neuro-endovascular and spine surgery. The program maintains more than $13 million in active research funding, rounding out the clinical care, education and research missions of the health system.
Ochsner Health (New Orleans). The Ochsner Neuroscience Institute is one of the largest and most comprehensive neuroscience programs in the Gulf South, providing expert care to more than 50,000 patients each year from 37 states and 10 countries. With over 200 specialists, the institute delivers advanced treatment for the full spectrum of neurological conditions, including epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, multiple sclerosis and complex spine disorders. The institute has several specialized centers, such as an ALS center, comprehensive stroke center and Parkinson Foundation comprehensive care center. The institute offers state-of-the-art therapies including deep brain stimulation, epilepsy surgery, gamma therapy and robotic-assisted spine surgery, supported by an integrated team of neurologists, neurosurgeons and rehabilitation experts. Nationally ranked among the top 10% of U.S. hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report, Ochsner has also earned the Healthgrades “Neurosciences Excellence Award” and recognition as one of America’s 100 best hospitals for stroke care. Construction is currently underway on the new Debra H. and Robert J. Patrick Neuroscience Center, which will feature a biodesign lab and early-onset dementia clinic.
Orlando (Fla.) Health. Orlando Health’s neurosurgery and spine program delivers one of Florida’s most comprehensive and collaborative approaches to spine and neurological care, uniting the expertise of the Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute and the Orlando Health Neuroscience Institute. The system’s new multidisciplinary spine center spans 21 locations across Central Florida, including eight walk-in clinics, providing patients same-day access to orthopedic and neurosurgical spine specialists. Through an integrated triage model, patients are guided seamlessly from conservative treatments like physical therapy and pain management to surgical intervention when appropriate, supported by nurse navigators and educational classes in English and Spanish. The program performs more than 4,200 neurosurgical procedures annually, including robotic-assisted and minimally invasive spine surgery, and its surgeons have developed multiple patented spinal implant technologies. Recent innovations include a state-of-the-art downtown neuroscience institute equipped with EOS imaging, advanced rehabilitation facilities and dedicated research space, as well as international training collaborations through a bioskills lab. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a best hospital and by The Joint Commission as a spine center of excellence, Orlando Health’s program aims to reduce costs, streamline treatment and improve outcomes across the region.
Parkview Health (Fort Wayne, Ind.). Parkview Neurosciences is the largest and most comprehensive neuro program in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio, serving more than 20 counties through eight locations, including its flagship at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne. The program brings together 36 specialists across neurology, neurosurgery, neurointervention, and physical medicine and rehabilitation, offering advanced care for conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, multiple sclerosis and spinal disorders. Parkview’s comprehensive stroke center, certified by DNV and recognized by U.S. News & World Report, performs over 2,000 urgent stroke evaluations annually and utilizes RapidAI technology to accelerate diagnosis and treatment. The system also leads the region in noninvasive innovation, introducing focused ultrasound therapy for essential tremor and expanding minimally invasive and robotic-assisted spine surgery capabilities. Parkview’s multidisciplinary approach and outreach initiatives, including community stroke education and support groups, underscore its patient-centered mission. Parkview has also been recognized with the Vizient “Birnbaum Quality Assurance Award” and multiple American Heart Association “Get With The Guidelines” honors.
Penn Medicine (Philadelphia). The Penn Medicine Spine Center provides integrated, patient-centered care for a full range of spinal conditions through a multidisciplinary model spanning neurosurgery, orthopedics, pain medicine, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and behavioral health. Its team performs more than 5,000 spine surgeries annually, using advanced minimally invasive techniques and state-of-the-art imaging technologies to ensure safe, efficient recovery. Four Penn Medicine hospitals, including the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia, are designated Blue Distinction Centers for spine surgery, thanks to superior quality outcomes and lower readmission rates. Princeton Medical Center in Plainsboro Township, N.J. also holds The Joint Commission’s spine certification for evidence-based excellence in spine care. The program’s “enhanced recovery after surgery” initiative, among the first of its kind nationally in neurosurgery, optimizes recovery by reducing surgical risks, promoting early mobility and shortening hospital stays. The center offers spinal tumor and adult spinal deformity programs, serving patients across Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.
Phoenix Children’s. Phoenix Children’s is a national leader in pediatric neurological and spine care, home to the Barrow Neurological Institute, the largest pediatric neuroscience center in the Southwest, and the state’s only collaborative ortho-neuro pediatric spine program, the Center for Spine Care. Together, these programs deliver advanced treatment for children with complex brain, spine and neurological conditions. The Center for Spine Care employs a dual-surgeon approach, combining neurosurgical and orthopedic expertise to shorten procedures, minimize blood loss and enhance recovery, while offering cutting-edge techniques like vertebral body tethering and low-dose EOS imaging. The Barrow Neurological Institute provides more than 20 specialized clinics and is consistently ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Its integrated model includes neurology, neurosurgery, developmental pediatrics, rehabilitation and neuropsychology under one roof. The program’s research portfolio spans pediatric epilepsy, cerebral palsy and neurogenetics, supported by $1.25 million in annual foundation and research funding. Recognized by national organizations including the National Association of Epilepsy Centers and the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, Phoenix Children’s offers family-centered care that transforms outcomes for children across Arizona and beyond.
Providence Saint John’s Health Center (Santa Monica, Calif.). Providence Saint John’s Health Center is a nationally recognized 266-bed hospital distinguished for its excellence in neurological and spine care through its renowned Neuroscience and Spine Institutes. In partnership with the Santa Monica-based Pacific Neuroscience Institute, the program unites leading specialists in neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, neuro-ophthalmology, head and neck surgery, neurointerventional radiology and behavioral health to deliver truly comprehensive care. The Spine Center utilizes robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques, supported by O-arm imaging and Stealth Navigation, to ensure optimal precision, faster recovery and superior long-term outcomes, while maintaining some of the lowest readmission rates in the region. Innovative initiatives such as the hospital’s spine preoperative education program empower patients with knowledge and confidence before surgery, reducing anxiety and improving recovery experiences. Providence Saint John’s also excels in advanced treatments across its subspecialty centers, including the Brain Tumor Center, Eye, Ear & Skull Base Center and the Movement Disorders Center, all recognized for exceptional results and pioneering therapies like deep brain stimulation and keyhole surgery. Recent breakthroughs include performing California’s first CONVIVO intraoperative confocal microscopy procedure for real-time brain tumor visualization and leading clinical trials like the “Placebo-controlled Efficacy of iNPH Shunting” study on shunt surgery for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus. Providence Saint John’s Health Center has earned the American Heart Association’s “Gold Plus Target Stroke Elite Award” since 2019.
Providence St. Joseph Hospital (Orange, Calif.). Providence St. Joseph Hospital Orange’s Complex Spine Center is a nationally recognized program specializing in advanced treatment for spinal pain, injury and deformities, serving as a regional referral destination for complex and revision spine surgeries. The center’s expert team of 15 specialists utilizes “smart operating rooms” equipped with state-of-the-art imaging, robotic assistance and navigation systems to perform minimally invasive spinal fusions, artificial disk replacements and complex scoliosis realignments. The program has implemented a robust framework for pre-surgical optimization, including proactive health preparation and patient education, resulting in smoother recoveries and improved surgical readiness. Enhanced recovery protocols emphasize early mobilization and coordinated care among therapy and nursing teams, while strong communication and daily multidisciplinary rounds ensure seamless care transitions. Data-driven performance improvement and meticulous surgical planning have led to impressive results, reducing the geometric mean length of stay from 1.31 to 1.13 and lowering readmission rates from 2.3% to just 0.8%. Recognized for quality and patient experience, St. Joseph Hospital ranks among U.S. News & World Report’s top 10 hospitals in the Los Angeles/Orange County metro area, holds Blue Distinction for spine surgery, and has achieved the Surgical Review Corporation robotic center of excellence status. Additionally, it is a five-time Magnet-accredited hospital, the first within Providence to receive Magnet with distinction and one of only 30 hospitals worldwide to hold this designation.
RWJBarnabas Health (West Orange, N.J.). RWJBarnabas Health’s department of neurosurgery at New Brunswick, N.J.-based Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital is a premier academic neurosurgical program and national referral center, offering advanced neuroscience capabilities found only at a select number of institutions nationwide. Through its partnership with Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the hospital delivers cutting-edge care, research and education for the most complex neurological and spine conditions. The department provides a full spectrum of services, including comprehensive stroke care, neurointerventional procedures, advanced spine surgery, movement disorder management and functional neurosurgery. The hospital is New Jersey’s first to utilize intraoperative MRI technology and one of the first to employ image-guided and robotic-assisted techniques such as the ROSA ONE Brain and ClearPoint Navigation Systems for precision in brain and spine procedures. Its National Association of Epilepsy Centers-accredited level 4 epilepsy center and “Gold Seal”–certified comprehensive stroke center exemplify its dedication to excellence, innovation and outcomes. The hospital maintains a stroke mortality index of less than 1.0 and has significantly reduced postoperative complications through ongoing quality reviews. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as “high performing” for stroke treatment and re-certified by The Joint Commission for both spine surgery and comprehensive stroke care, the hospital continues to advance patient safety and recovery through protocols like enhanced recovery, on-site physical therapy and a 15-bed neurocritical care unit.
Rady Children’s (San Diego). Rady Children’s Hospital is home to one of the nation’s top-ranked divisions of pediatric neurology and neurosurgery, providing expert diagnosis and treatment for infants, children and adolescents with conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and neuromuscular system. The program’s multidisciplinary team delivers compassionate, state-of-the-art care for both common and complex neurological disorders, often serving families who have limited treatment options elsewhere. The program features a level 4 comprehensive epilepsy center, a tuberous sclerosis complex clinic designated by the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance, and one of the few pediatric movement disorder and mitochondrial medicine centers in the country. The program’s specialists use the latest innovations, including transcranial magnetic stimulation, genome sequencing, Visualase laser ablation and the ROSA surgical robot for minimally invasive pediatric epilepsy surgery. The division is deeply engaged in clinical research and precision medicine, offering access to groundbreaking therapies and international registries such as the Batten disease precision therapeutics program and the neurotransmitter-related disorders registry. Rady Children’s performs more than 600 pediatric neurosurgeries annually, and remains a leader in training future specialists.
The Redlands (Calif.) Community Hospital. The Redlands Community Hospital Spine & Joint Institute is a nationally recognized program providing exceptional, comprehensive care for patients with spine and joint conditions. Consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and Healthgrades, the institute offers an integrated approach to care that brings together expert physicians, specialized nurses, physical therapists and rehabilitation professionals to help patients achieve optimal outcomes and return to mobility faster. The institute’s focus on patient-centered, multidisciplinary care ensures a seamless experience from diagnosis through recovery, supported by advanced surgical techniques and a commitment to innovation. The institute’s use of minimally invasive and outpatient surgical options has significantly reduced recovery times and improved patient satisfaction. The program has earned numerous accolades, including the Healthgrades “Orthopedic Surgery Excellence Award” from 2024-25 and the “Spinal Fusion Surgery Award” for 2025, as well as the Surgical Review Corporation center of excellence in orthopedic surgery designation for 2024. Redlands Community Hospital’s Spine & Joint Institute boasts exceptional patient outcomes, a first-case on-time start rate above 80%, turnover times averaging just 22 minutes and HCAHPS satisfaction scores consistently above the 90th percentile.
Renown Health (Reno, Nev.). As a provider of neurosurgical and spine care, the Renown Institute for Neurosciences has established partnerships with physicians to offer comprehensive care throughout their 100,000 square mile region. The institute recently expanded its cranial neurosurgery program to offer patients functional neurosurgery options including deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease treatment with plans to expand to surgical intervention for epilepsy patients. Advanced facilities include a new surgical trauma ICU with 34 private rooms and the region’s largest Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities-accredited rehabilitation hospital with 62 beds. Renown specializes in neurological rehabilitation with board-certified physicians in spinal cord injury medicine as well as traumatic brain injury. It houses an interventional pain management program and the area’s largest network of outpatient therapy clinics. A leader in pediatric orthopedic and scoliosis care, surgical specialists offer expert care for congenital deformities, limb deformities, hip disorders, clubfoot, neuromuscular disorders, sports injuries and complex spinal disorders.
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (Buffalo, N.Y.). Roswell Park’s spinal oncology center is one of the nation’s first and largest centers dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of tumors of the spine. Neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, neuropathologists and neuroradiologists unite to care for a high volume of patients with rare spinal tumors, both cancerous and nonmalignant. These experts specialize in care for patients with rare conditions, including chordoma and chondrosarcoma, spinal metastatic disease, thoracoscopic schwannoma, Pancoast tumor and comprehensive care for adults with neurofibromatosis. The program has a history of incorporating the latest technological advances in spine care, including Western New York’s first O-Arm and New York State’s first implant carbon fiber instrumentation. Roswell Park’s spine tumor experts set best practices through roles on National Comprehensive Cancer Network guideline panels and the North American Spine Society’s spine oncology leadership committee. The team developed a nerve-sparing technique for Pancoast tumor resection resulting in improved function, an innovation that translates to improved quality of life for patients.
Rush University Medical Center (Chicago). The Rush Spine Center offers an integrated model for the diagnosis and treatment of spine disorders, emphasizing nonsurgical, evidence-based care whenever possible. Its specialists in physical medicine, rehabilitation and physical therapy collaborate to design individualized, nonoperative treatment plans focused on rapid recovery and improved function. Board-certified spine surgeons at Rush provide advanced surgical options ranging from minimally invasive procedures to complex deformity corrections for patients who require operative intervention. The center’s world-renowned surgeons are pioneers in minimally invasive, fusion and stabilization techniques, each with subspecialty expertise in tumor surgery, deformity correction, and cervical and lumbar spine procedures. Rush leverages state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, including EOS imaging scans that provide low-radiation, three-dimensional skeletal imaging, enhancing precision in both assessment and surgical planning. Located in the Joan and Paul Rubschlager Building, the center serves as a regional destination for comprehensive spine care, supported by integrative medicine, rehabilitation services and expanded clinical research opportunities.
Sanford Health (Fargo, N.D.). Sanford Fargo Brain & Spine Center is a regional leader in neurological care, offering advanced services in neurosurgery, neurology, neuropsychology, pain management and rehabilitation. It is recognized as an advanced comprehensive stroke center, one of only two in its region, with telemedicine programs like telestroke and virtual rounding that expand access to expert care for rural patients. The center excels in surgical innovation, being the first in Fargo to offer stereotactic radiosurgery and employing robotic-assisted technology for minimally invasive spine procedures. Committed to education and research, Sanford Fargo partners with the University of North Dakota on a neurology residency program, participates in clinical trials for multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s, and conducts cutting-edge research on stroke imaging and medication efficacy to drive advancements in neurological care. Comprehensive care is further supported through its multidisciplinary spine clinic, a level 4 epilepsy monitoring unit, and the state’s only Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities-accredited brain injury rehabilitation unit. To further enhance stroke recovery, the center became the first in the state in 2024 to offer Vivistim therapy, a breakthrough device implanted under the skin that stimulates the brain during physical and occupational therapy.
Sarasota (Fla.) Memorial Health Care System. The Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, one of Florida’s largest and most advanced public health systems, is celebrating a century of excellence in 2025 while continuing to lead innovation in spine and neurosurgical care. The spine program unites five orthopedic and seven neurosurgeons in a collaborative, patient-centered model supported by expert physical therapists, perioperative nurses and case managers. In 2025, the program completed over 1,360 elective spine cases at the Sarasota campus alone, earning DNV advanced spine surgery certification and recognition by U.S. News & World Report as a “high performer” in back surgery. The system is redefining modern spine care with technologies such as augmented reality and robotic-assisted surgery, improving precision, safety and recovery outcomes. Surgeons are also pioneering the use of Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headsets and Aprevo 3D-printed spinal implants, while conducting studies like the evaluation of iceless cryopneumatic therapy to reduce pain and swelling after surgery. In 2025, the system expanded its research capabilities with the opening of the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute, a $75 million facility advancing clinical studies, surgical simulation and medical innovation. The program has achieved complication and readmission rates well below national benchmarks, and has earned five consecutive Magnet designations, CMS 5-star ratings every year since 2016, Blue Distinction Center status for spine surgery, and inclusion on Newsweek‘s “World’s Best Hospitals” and “”World’s Best Smart Hospitals” 2026 lists.
Seattle Children’s. Seattle Children’s spine program is the largest and most comprehensive pediatric spine center in the Pacific Northwest, providing expert care for children of all ages with the full spectrum of spinal conditions, from back pain and scoliosis to complex congenital deformities and spinal tumors. Recognized nationally for excellence, the program treats patients referred from across the region and is led by board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons who focus exclusively on pediatric spinal surgery. The multidisciplinary team spans orthopedics, neurosciences, pulmonary medicine and rehabilitation, collaborating to design individualized treatment plans that prioritize noninvasive approaches such as bracing, physical therapy and Mehta casting whenever possible. For patients requiring surgery, Seattle Children’s offers advanced, minimally invasive and motion-preserving options like the magnetic expansion control rod system and vertebral body tethering, supported by 3D imaging, neuromonitoring and a dedicated pediatric spine anesthesia team to ensure precision and safety. The program also houses the region’s only low-dose EOS imaging system, reducing radiation exposure for children. As a leader in pediatric spine research, Seattle Children’s participates in national and international study groups, including the Harms and Pediatric Spine Study Groups, driving innovation in scoliosis care, surgical safety and imaging protocols.
Sharp HealthCare (San Diego). Sharp HealthCare’s neurosciences program is a regional and national leader in advanced neurological and spine care, anchored by the Sharp Grossmont Hospital for Neuroscience in La Mesa, Calif., the first and only stand-alone comprehensive neuroscience hospital in San Diego County and one of few in the nation. This state-of-the-art facility brings together specialized services, including a neuro-ICU, neuro progressive care unit, inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient clinics, creating a fully integrated ecosystem for complex brain and spine care. Sharp’s multidisciplinary team of more than 50 specialists leads innovations in neuro-oncology, movement disorders, stroke care and spine surgery, with expertise supported by active participation in clinical trials and academic collaborations. A hallmark of Sharp’s innovation is its introduction of MR-guided focused ultrasound, an incisionless, noninvasive treatment for essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease, making Sharp the only provider in San Diego County to offer this groundbreaking therapy. The system is also expanding epilepsy care with a new four-bed epilepsy monitoring unit and is pursuing National Association of Epilepsy Centers level 4 accreditation to meet growing regional needs. Sharp’s stroke program continues to exceed national benchmarks in outcomes and recovery, using RapidAI imaging technology to accelerate diagnosis and treatment. Recognized with multiple American Heart Association “Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus” awards and the Joint Commission’s spine surgery certification, Sharp is supported by grants, research funding and a strong commitment to patient-centered innovation.
St. Louis Children’s Hospital. St. Louis Children’s Hospital, in affiliation with Washington University School of Medicine, is home to one of the nation’s largest and most advanced pediatric neurology programs, providing compassionate, cutting-edge care for infants, children and adolescents with neurological disorders. The hospital’s pediatric neurology department features 33 board-certified neurologists and offers a full continuum of care, including specialized services such as electroencephalogram, electromyography, nerve conduction studies, muscle biopsy and sleep monitoring. The program is equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring and rehabilitation technology. Its comprehensive epilepsy center ranks among the most extensive in the world, while its cerebral palsy program is the largest full-service pediatric program of its kind in the U.S. St. Louis Children’s also operates a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities-accredited nine-bed neurorehabilitation unit, providing intensive therapy for children recovering from neurological injury.
Stanford Medicine (Palo Alto, Calif.). The Stanford Medicine Spine Center brings together leading neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists and pain management specialists to provide care for both common and complex spine disorders. Its multidisciplinary team treats the full spectrum of spinal conditions, from degenerative disc disease and scoliosis to spinal cord tumors and traumatic injuries, emphasizing conservative, minimally invasive approaches. Advanced diagnostic technologies, including EOS low-radiation imaging, high-definition fiber tractography, perfusion MRI and intraoperative imaging, enable precise identification and targeted treatment of spinal pathology. The center integrates research and clinical innovation, translating discoveries from Stanford’s neurosciences and bioengineering programs into new techniques that improve surgical precision and recovery outcomes. Through personalized treatment plans and robust patient education initiatives, the spine center prioritizes rapid diagnosis, reduced recovery times and long-term spinal health.
Sutter Health (Sacramento, Calif.). Sutter Health’s advanced neuroscience service line delivers coordinated, high-level neurological care across California, using cutting-edge technology, AI-driven tools and systemwide integration to elevate precision, speed and outcomes for complex brain and nervous system conditions. The program supports more than 6,000 stroke patients each year, performs hundreds of lifesaving thrombectomies and operates 17 certified stroke centers. Sutter’s multidisciplinary network includes more than 110 neurologists, three accredited epilepsy centers, two comprehensive memory clinics, an MS center of excellence, advanced neurodiagnostics, one of the nation’s only mobile stroke units and broad access to phase 1-4 clinical trials. Recent innovations include systemwide implementation of Aidoc’s real-time AI imaging platform, smartphone-based cognitive screening, Apple Watch–supported Parkinson’s monitoring, and expanded use of minimally invasive neurosurgical technologies. Sutter is also investing $442 million in a new advanced neurosciences complex in San Francisco, expanding teleneurology and virtual electroencephalogram networks, and launching a new neurology residency to train future specialists.
Tampa (Fla.) General Hospital. The Tampa General Hospital Neuroscience Institute provides comprehensive neurological and neurosurgical care for both children and adults, offering one of the largest and most advanced programs in the nation. As a nationally recognized leader, the institute houses one of the largest neuroscience intensive care units in the U.S. and operates the second-busiest functional neurosurgery program in the country. Tampa General is among the few hospitals in Florida to offer cutting-edge treatments such as the Visualase laser interstitial thermal therapy system, GammaTile therapy, and high-intensity focused ultrasound for movement disorders. The system implements minimally invasive techniques that reduce recovery times and cost per encounter by over 10%. Through its partnership with USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, the institute conducts more than 140 active clinical trials, driving advancements in neuro-oncology, stroke care and neurodegenerative disease research. Named among the top 10% in the nation for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2025–26, Tampa General is also recognized as a comprehensive stroke center and for high performance in back surgery.
Texas Children’s Hospital (Houston). The Texas Children’s Hospital Neuroscience Center is one of the largest and most advanced pediatric neuroscience programs in the world, providing comprehensive care through a multidisciplinary team of more than 100 specialists, including 54 neurologists and nine neurosurgeons. Affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine, the center combines patient care, education and research to treat over 40,000 children annually from across the globe. Ranked No. 2 nationally in neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report, Texas Children’s leads in clinical innovation and outcomes, performing over 1,000 neurosurgical operations each year. Its team pioneered several world-firsts, including MRI-guided laser ablation for epilepsy and fetoscopic spina bifida repair, and was the first pediatric hospital in Texas to use the NeuroPace RNS device for seizure control. In 2024, the hospital achieved another global milestone by administering the first gene therapy for Rett syndrome and delivering the first FDA-approved gene therapy for aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency. Texas Children’s offers specialized programs spanning epilepsy, neurogenetics, neurovascular disorders, brain tumors and neuromuscular diseases.
UAB Medicine (Birmingham, Ala.). UAB Medicine’s University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital delivers one of the Southeast’s most comprehensive and advanced spine programs through its departments of neurosurgery and orthopedics, performing more than 1,200 spine procedures annually and treating the full spectrum of spinal disorders. The program features a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary model integrating neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, rehabilitation specialists and pain management experts to provide tailored, evidence-based care. UAB was the first hospital in Birmingham to introduce the ExcelsiusGPS robotic spine system, enabling more precise, minimally invasive procedures and faster patient recovery. The departments collectively received over $5 million in research funding last year, supporting innovation in spinal surgery and neuroscience. The program’s “enhanced recovery protocol” has reduced hospital stays, improved mobility and minimized opioid use, while maintaining top safety metrics, including a 98% postoperative renal safety rate. UAB earned The Joint Commission’s “Gold Seal of Approval” for advanced certification in spine surgery in 2023, and is ranked “high performing” in back surgery/spinal fusion by U.S. News & World Report for 2025–26.
UC Davis Health (Sacramento, Calif.). The UC Davis Spine Center, part of UC Davis Health’s 653-bed UC Davis Medical Center, cares for spinal disorders across a 65,000-square-mile service area in Northern California. Co-directed by the chief of spinal neurosurgery, the center integrates expertise from neurosurgery, orthopedics, pain management, rehabilitation and psychology. Its surgeons specialize in minimally invasive, endoscopic, robotic and augmented reality–assisted spine surgery, supported by one of the region’s leading medical extended reality research groups. The program recently expanded into UC Davis Health’s new 48X Complex, a 270,000-square-foot surgical facility with 14 operating rooms and 100,000 square feet of specialty clinics, enhancing access and efficiency for elective and complex spine procedures. UC Davis launched the region’s first endoscopic spine surgery program in 2024 and serves as Northern California’s only level I adult and pediatric trauma center, providing state-of-the-art care for spine trauma and spinal cord injury. The spine center also leads in research, participating in major clinical trials such as the Medtronic Alliance post-market study and international collaborations on cervical spondylosis and spinal cord injury.
UC San Diego Health. UC San Diego Health delivers nationally ranked, research-driven care for brain, spine and memory disorders, offering treatments grounded in the latest scientific advances. Recognized as No. 28 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for neurology and neurosurgery, UC San Diego provides expertise in conditions ranging from epilepsy and ALS to brain tumors, traumatic brain injury, neuromuscular disorders and facial pain. Its neurological institute is a major research powerhouse, leading studies on the blood–brain barrier, glioma cancer vaccines, stem cell transplantation, advanced radiosurgery, innovative imaging and minimally invasive surgical techniques. For spine care, UC San Diego Health is the first in California to earn The Joint Commission’s “Gold Seal of Approval” for advanced certification in spine surgery. Spine specialists offer a full spectrum of personalized treatment options, including nonsurgical therapies, minimally invasive and endoscopic procedures, total disc replacement and complex reconstructions, supported by national leadership in minimally invasive approaches. As the regional referral center for advanced spine care, UC San Diego Health ensures patients receive precise diagnosis, cutting-edge treatments and outcomes-driven care across all spinal conditions.
UCLA Health (Los Angeles). The UCLA Health Spine Center delivers comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for spinal injuries, disorders and disease, integrating neurosurgery and orthopedics under one roof to treat even the most complicated conditions. Its nationally recognized specialists are leaders in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted spine surgery, with advanced expertise in procedures such as disc arthroplasty, spinal fusion and biologic-based healing techniques that utilize the body’s own proteins to reduce pain and accelerate recovery. As one of only 50 training centers nationwide teaching disc replacement surgery, UCLA Health continues to advance the field through innovation and education. The center was awarded a Blue Distinction Center designation thanks to its excellence in surgical outcomes and low readmission rates. Patients benefit from on-site diagnostics, electromyography and a 4,000-square-foot rehabilitation gym that’s equipped with virtual and force-plate technology for personalized therapy. The specialists in the UCLA Health department of neurosurgery are ranked among the nation’s top neurosurgery programs by U.S. News & World Report year after year.
UCI Health (Orange, Calif.). The UCI Health Comprehensive Spine Center is Orange County’s only academic spine program, offering world-class expertise in diagnosing and treating complex spinal disorders such as trauma, tumors, degenerative disease and scoliosis. Its multidisciplinary team of orthopedic and neurosurgeons, physiatrists, anesthesiologists and pain specialists collaborates to develop care plans using the latest minimally invasive, robot-assisted and endoscopic surgical techniques. As a leader in research and education, UCI Health hosts the internationally attended “Spine by the Sea” symposium and operates a state-of-the-art cadaveric training program to advance spine surgery innovation. The center’s surgeons have achieved groundbreaking milestones, including performing the world’s first endoscopic spinal fusion using augmented reality technology. U.S. News & World Report ranks UCI Health as high performing in neurology, neurosurgery and spinal fusion. Supported by more than $2 million in research funding and active clinical trials, the program pioneers advancements in spine surgery while maintaining low complication and readmission rates across its expanding Southern California network.
UCSF Health (San Francisco). The UCSF Spine Center, one of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive programs, treats more than 10,000 patients annually through a multidisciplinary model that integrates neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, neurology, psychiatry and other specialties. Its expert team includes leaders in cancer care, pain management, physical therapy, radiation oncology and rheumatology who collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans. The center offers advanced services such as minimally invasive cervical and lumbar procedures, motion-sparing surgery, complex revision surgery and noninvasive radiosurgery using CyberKnife technology. Its innovative lateral paramedian transpedicular approach, developed by a UCSF surgeon, has made previously inoperable cervical tumors treatable. The program maintains monthly spine tumor board reviews and a rapid case review service for urgent conditions, ensuring timely and specialized care. Ranked “Best in the West” and No. 2 nationally for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2025–26, the UCSF Spine Center is advancing the field through pioneering research, clinical trials and patient support services.
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Brain Care Institute brings together some of the nation’s leading experts in pediatric neurology and neurosurgery to uncover the mysteries of the brain and deliver world-class care for children. Ranked among the best pediatric programs by U.S. News & World Report, the program offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a wide spectrum of neurological conditions, including epilepsy, movement disorders, mitochondrial and metabolic diseases, muscular dystrophy, neuroimmunology, stroke and rare brain disorders. UPMC Children’s neurologists collaborate closely with specialists in neuro-oncology, neurocritical care, genetics and neuroimaging, ensuring every patient benefits from a multidisciplinary, research-driven approach. Beyond diagnosis and treatment, families have access to extensive support through the Brain Care Institute’s integrated network, including behavioral health, therapy services and family-centered programs. Dedicated specialty clinics such as the tuberous sclerosis clinic, neurofibromatosis clinic, headache clinic and childhood stroke program provide targeted expertise. As a nationally recognized research center, UPMC Children’s participates in cutting-edge clinical studies, expanding access to the most advanced therapies.
UR Medicine (Rochester, N.Y.). UR Medicine Neurosurgery is a nationally recognized, research-driven program providing comprehensive neurosurgical care across a wide regional network, managing more than 3,500 cases annually. The department’s strengths span cerebrovascular and endovascular surgery, skull base and pituitary procedures, complex and minimally invasive spine, neuro-oncology, epilepsy, functional and pediatric neurosurgery, and peripheral nerve care. Its mobile stroke unit and leadership in the Stroke Treatment Alliance of Rochester demonstrate a strong commitment to rapid, equitable access to care. The program for translational brain mapping, developed in partnership with cognitive neuroscientists, integrates advanced imaging, fMRI and tractography to improve preoperative planning and predict recovery outcomes. Research collaborations through the Del Monte Neuroscience Institute and Strong Cerebrovascular Laboratory have earned National Institutes of Health R01 funding, advancing understanding of ischemic thrombi and astrocyte biology. The Stone Lab’s 3D printing and augmented reality innovations are reshaping surgical training and planning, while quality initiatives such as “YoUR SPINE” have improved outcomes and patient satisfaction. The system’s Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester is designated as a level 1 trauma center and comprehensive stroke center.
UT Southwestern Medical Center (Dallas). The UT Southwestern Spine Center delivers care for the full spectrum of spinal disorders, combining innovation, research and advanced technology to optimize patient outcomes. Its expert team, comprising specialists in pain management, physical medicine and rehabilitation, orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery, collaborates to provide individualized treatment plans for both routine and complex spine conditions. The program offers a full range of nonsurgical and surgical options, including minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery, robotic-assisted procedures, and advanced rehabilitation and pain management therapies. The center specializes in treating scoliosis, spinal deformities, degenerative diseases, herniated discs and spinal tumors through a patient-first approach that emphasizes function, recovery and long-term quality of life. UT Southwestern is nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report as “high performing” for back surgery/spinal fusion and ranks No. 9 in the nation for neurology and neurosurgery, with many of its physicians named “Top Doctors” by D Magazine and Castle Connolly.
UVA Health (Charlottesville, Va.). UVA Health’s department of neurosurgery and spine center comprise 20 spine and neurosurgeons supported by 15 advanced practice providers. UVA Health delivers comprehensive care across centers of excellence for epilepsy, spine, stroke, pituitary tumors, neuro-oncology, pediatric neurosurgery and functional neurosurgery. UVA Health’s comprehensive stroke center, which is Virginia’s only Joint Commission–designated facility of its kind, has earned multiple American Heart Association awards, including the “Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus” and “Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite”. The institution is a global pioneer in Gamma Knife radiosurgery, treating over 10,000 patients from 54 countries, and home to a level 4 epilepsy center providing the highest level of surgical and medical management. UVA’s neurosurgeons are at the forefront of minimally invasive, image-guided and robot-assisted spine surgery, performing more than 1,500 procedures annually. The program’s groundbreaking focused ultrasound research has achieved multiple firsts worldwide, including FDA-approved applications for essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease. UVA Health’s ongoing clinical trials in brain tumor sonodynamic therapy, neuromodulation and spinal deformity research continue to shape the future of neuroscience. The program receives more than $7.5 million in National Institutes of Health and industry-backed research funding, has earned a top-5 national ranking for research output, and has garnered repeated national recognition from U.S. News & World Report and Newsweek.
UW Medicine (Seattle). UW Medicine is the health system of the University of Washington and home to one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest and most comprehensive neurology and multidisciplinary spine programs. The team includes neurologists, orthopedic and sports medicine specialists, neurosurgeons, spine surgeons and rehabilitation specialists who collaborate at the region’s only level 1 trauma center, Harborview Medical Center, as well as at the University of Washington Medical Center, both located in Seattle. These specialists diagnose and treat the full spectrum of brain, spine and nervous system disorders, including the most complex traumatic brain, spine and spinal cord injuries. Patient care is highly collaborative and incorporates advanced technologies such as minimally invasive surgical techniques, intraoperative image guidance and radiosurgery. The program also features innovative hospital “smart rooms” designed to enhance patient recovery and support clinical teams. The neurology program is designated as a comprehensive stroke center, a distinguished multiple sclerosis center and a center of excellence for ALS and Huntington’s disease. UW Medicine’s faculty, trainees and research staff are recognized as national and international leaders in clinical, basic science and translational research, with a focus on translating research findings into innovative, high-quality patient care.
University of Chicago Medicine. The University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Spine Center offers a uniquely collaborative model that unites neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine surgeons to provide advanced, individualized care for patients with spinal disorders. The center focuses on treatment plans tailored to each diagnosis, combining non-surgical and surgical options to achieve optimal outcomes. Whenever possible, the team emphasizes conservative management, such as physical therapy, pain management and lifestyle modification, before considering surgical intervention. When surgery is required, UChicago Medicine’s specialists use the latest minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques, including cervical disc replacement, microdiscectomy, laminectomy, vertebroplasty and spinal fusion, supported by stereotactic navigation systems developed in part at UChicago. The program treats the full spectrum of spine conditions, from degenerative disc disease, scoliosis and kyphosis to complex deformities, tumors and tethered spinal cord syndrome. Patients benefit from coordinated care that extends from pain management through recovery and rehabilitation, with shared decision-making at every step. The spine center is backed by the department of neurological surgery’s expertise in critical care, neuro-oncology, neurovascular and pediatric spine surgery.
University Hospitals (Cleveland). The University Hospitals Neurology and Spine Institute provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care across 16 specialty centers for the full range of neurological and spinal disorders. Its team of 19 neurosurgeons, 37 neurologists and 21 advanced practice providers collaborates to deliver advanced treatments integrating neurosurgery, neurology and spine medicine. The UH Spine Institute, one of only 20 programs nationwide designated a center of excellence by the National Spine Institute, specializes in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted spine surgery using ExcelsiusGPS navigation for greater precision. University Hospitals is also among a select group of U.S. centers offering proton therapy for spinal and cranial tumors, improving outcomes while protecting healthy tissue. The department oversees 105 active clinical trials, including 54 funded by the National Institutes of Health, and leads groundbreaking studies such as the ReHAB brain-computer interface trial to restore movement after paralysis. Its teams also performed the first endoscopic discectomy in Northeast Ohio, expanding access to ultra-minimally invasive spine care.
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (Tacoma, Wash.). Virginia Mason Franciscan Health’s Center for Neurosciences and Spine is the Puget Sound region’s premier destination for advanced neurological and spine care, recognized for its innovation, research and clinical excellence. The center’s specialists treat a full range of complex conditions, from scoliosis and spinal tumors to stroke, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s, with expertise in minimally invasive and deformity spine surgery, cerebrovascular and endovascular neurosurgery, and deep brain stimulation. Designated a Blue Distinction Center for spine surgery by Blue Cross Blue Shield, the program maintains certifications for excellence in stroke, ALS, back pain and multiple sclerosis care. Its collaboration with the Benaroya Research Institute in Seattle drives groundbreaking studies on neurovascular disease, MS and spine disorders, advancing the science of diagnosis and treatment. The program’s Multiple Sclerosis Center, which is recognized by the National MS Society as a center for comprehensive care, serves more than 1,500 patients annually and leads national research efforts on disease-modifying therapies. Recently, the center became the first in a five-state region to offer the latest laser interstitial thermal therapy for precise, minimally invasive brain tumor treatment. The system was recognized with American Heart Association’s “Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus” designation, Healthgrades “Stroke Care Excellence Award” and a spot on Newsweek‘s “America’s Best Specialized Hospitals” list.
Virtua Health (Marlton, N.J.). The Penn Medicine | Virtua Health Neurosciences Program delivers nationally recognized neurological and spine care through an innovative partnership that unites Virtua Health, the largest health system in southern New Jersey, with the expertise of Penn Medicine. This collaboration brings advanced, academic-level neuroscience services that are traditionally available only at major tertiary centers directly to communities across South Jersey. At Camden, N.J.-based Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, board-certified neurologists, neurosurgeons, and neuroradiologists provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for conditions including stroke, brain tumors, epilepsy and complex spine disorders. In 2025, Virtua launched a state-of-the-art neuro-ICU at the hospital, featuring 18 private rooms designed for critically ill neurological and neurosurgical patients. That same year, Virtua opened a new epilepsy monitoring unit at Virtua Voorhees (N.J.) Hospital, making it one of only two in the region, and offering continuous video electroencephalogram monitoring and advanced diagnostics for patients with seizure disorders. Virtua Reconstructive Orthopedics also became the second site in the nation to use the Mako robotic-assisted system for spine surgery. Across the system, Virtua hospitals are recognized with Blue Distinction Center and Blue Distinction Center+ designations for spine surgery, Joint Commission stroke and spine certifications, and multiple American Heart Association “Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus” awards. Supported by Penn’s academic depth, Virtua’s neuroscience teams deliver quality metrics including reduced length of stay, lower readmissions and exceptional safety performance.
WellSpan Health (York, Pa.). WellSpan Neurosciences is one of the region’s most comprehensive neuro and spine programs, performing nearly 4,300 spine and cranial procedures annually, including complex fusions, tumor resections, aneurysm treatments and minimally invasive surgeries. Supported by 117 specialists across neurosurgery, neurology, physiatry and pain medicine, WellSpan provides integrated care spanning inpatient, outpatient and trauma settings. The health system was the first in the nation to combine Stryker Navigation with Airo TruCT intraoperative imaging, setting a new standard for precision in spinal and cranial surgery. Its multidisciplinary spine referral program, supported by 76 navigators, ensures streamlined patient access, personalized guidance and continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery. National recognition reflects this excellence: five hospitals earned Blue Distinction or Blue Distinction+ Center for spine surgery status in 2025, while multiple facilities achieved DNV orthopedic and spine center of excellence designation. In 2024, WellSpan received the American Hospital Association’s “Quest for Quality Prize,” the highest honor for leadership and innovation in patient safety and performance improvement.
White Plains (N.Y.) Hospital. White Plains Hospital delivers neurological, spine and interventional pain management care, offering comprehensive medical and surgical treatments for stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and complex spinal disorders. As the only center for comprehensive MS care in Westchester County and a Joint Commission–certified thrombectomy-capable stroke center, the hospital leads in advanced neurovascular and spine innovation. The hospital is also a level 4 epilepsy center, performs nearly 900 neurosurgical and spine procedures annually, and collaborates closely with Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in White Plains for seamless post-acute recovery. The hospital utilizes state-of-the-art technologies such as AI-enabled stroke diagnostics, robotic-assisted stereoelectroencephalography surgery and New York State’s first PET-MRI scanner outside NYC. Its spine program offers both surgical and minimally invasive options for deformities, tumors and pain management, including platelet-rich plasma therapy, stem cell injections and nerve stimulation. Recent quality initiatives like “Mission 60” and “Stroke on the Fast Track” have achieved over 200% improvement in thrombectomy timeliness and dramatically elevated patient satisfaction scores. The program was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as “high performing” in neurology and neurosurgery.
Yale New Haven (Conn.) Health. Yale New Haven Hospital, flagship of Yale New Haven Health, offers a neurosciences program that brings together world-renowned experts in neurology, neurosurgery and spine care to deliver cutting-edge treatment for the most complex brain and spinal disorders. Ranked No. 38 nationally in neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2025, the hospital provides advanced care powered by technologies found at only a few centers worldwide, including real-time MRI-guided interventions, stereotactic neuroradiosurgery and personalized genetic-based therapies. Its neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons perform a broad range of spine procedures like minimally invasive and endoscopic surgeries, disc replacements, spinal fusions and tumor resections. Spine procedure performance is supported by advanced neurovascular techniques including aneurysm coiling and intracranial stenting. The upcoming Adams Neurosciences Center, a 500,000-square-foot facility opening in 2027, will expand these capabilities with dedicated neurosurgery operating rooms, rehabilitation and advanced neuroimaging, serving as a national destination for neurological innovation. Yale New Haven Hospital’s Saint Raphael Campus is Joint Commission–certified in advanced spine surgery and serves as an advanced primary stroke center, while the York Street Campus holds advanced comprehensive stroke center certification. Yale New Haven Hospital boasts a 30% better-than-benchmark risk-adjusted mortality rate and a 98.5% stroke care compliance score.
