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15 Best Neurosurgeons in Philadelphia

Philadelphia neurosurgeons cover a wide range of specialist consultations, including cervical and lumbar surgery, complex spine conditions, tumors, epilepsy, cerebrovascular care, and persistent spinal pain. The right appointment depends on the condition being investigated and the question you need answered.

Start by matching the surgeon’s area of practice to your referral or symptoms, then confirm appointment availability and what records to bring. A second opinion may be useful for a difficult case, while a focused consultation can help clarify possible next steps.

How this list is ordered

A reputation that holds up over time, real focus on this service and a clear account of how they work: that is how this guide to neurosurgeons in Philadelphia was built and ordered.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3Every optionMapChoosing well

Compare the 15 local options

John Y. K. Lee, MD, MSCE, Philadelphia#1

John Y. K. Lee, MD, MSCE

4.9129 reviews
Penn Neurosurgery Pennsylvania Hospital, Spruce Building, 801 Spruce St 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States

John Y. K. Lee, MD, MSCE is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon with a particular focus on trigeminal neuralgia and microvascular decompression. Consultations emphasize detailed education about the condition, surgical options and the steps before and after treatment.

A careful, thorough style and attentive office team can help patients approach a potentially intimidating decision with greater clarity. The practice is a strong fit for people seeking a specialist discussion about persistent facial pain when medication has not provided adequate relief.

Stavropoula I. Tjoumakaris, MD, Philadelphia#2

Stavropoula I. Tjoumakaris, MD

5.023 reviews
1101 Chestnut St Fl 10, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Cerebrovascular consultationsAneurysm and AVM care

Stavropoula I. Tjoumakaris, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon providing care for complex cerebrovascular conditions, including cerebral arteriovenous malformations and aneurysms. Her consultation style is thorough and direct, with careful attention to explaining imaging, diagnosis and treatment choices in understandable terms.

Patients and families may appreciate the combination of clear communication, patience and advocacy during difficult hospital stays and recovery. The practice is particularly relevant for people seeking a specialist evaluation after a cerebral bleed, seizure-related diagnosis or other vascular neurological concern.

Jon J.W. Yoon, MD, MSc, Philadelphia#3

Jon J.W. Yoon, MD, MSc

4.770 reviews
Spruce Building, 801 Spruce St 1st Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Cervical or lumbar surgery consultationsSpine second opinions

Jon J. W. Yoon, MD, MSc is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon treating spine conditions with a strong emphasis on informed decision-making. Consultations cover the diagnosis, expected procedure, potential risks and recovery in clear, detailed language.

His approach is especially notable for respecting patient confidence before surgery: questions are welcomed, and treatment can be reconsidered when a patient is not ready to proceed. The practice suits people exploring cervical or lumbar surgery, second opinions and complex pain or mobility concerns who want a careful discussion rather than a rushed recommendation. Plan ahead for a specialist consultation and bring relevant imaging and prior treatment details.

Chengyuan Wu, MD, Philadelphia#4

Chengyuan Wu, MD

4.928 reviews
1101 Chestnut St Fl 10, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Epilepsy-surgery consultations

Chengyuan Wu, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon whose work spans epilepsy surgery, movement-disorder procedures and spine care. Relevant treatments include temporal-lobe surgery for seizures, deep brain stimulation for tremors and spinal cord stimulation discussions for persistent pain.

His consultation style is unusually detailed: complex procedures, alternatives and recovery stages are explained patiently, often with models or step-by-step teaching. He also uses diagnostic testing to build a fuller picture before recommending treatment. Patients facing a major neurological decision may value the time devoted to questions and informed preparation.

Ashwini D. Sharan, MD, Philadelphia#5

Ashwini D. Sharan, MD

4.928 reviews
1101 Chestnut St Fl 10, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Seizure treatment consultationsSpinal cord stimulation discussions

Ashwini D. Sharan, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon known for attentive care in complex spine and neurological conditions. His work includes seizure treatment, spinal cord stimulation and cervical fusion, with an emphasis on careful assessment and individualized planning.

Patients and families can expect a thoughtful consultation style, clear listening and explanations that do not feel rushed. The practice may be especially helpful for people weighing treatment for seizures, chronic pain or spinal deformity and looking for a specialist who combines technical focus with steady personal attention.

St. Christopher's Pediatric Associates Neurology, Philadelphia#6
Why it stands out
  • Multidisciplinary pediatric neurology

St. Christopher's Pediatric Associates Neurology

4.755 reviews
160 E Erie Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19134, United States
Best suited to
Children needing neurological careFamilies managing complex conditions

St. Christopher’s Pediatric Associates Neurology in Philadelphia provides specialized neurological care for children. The multidisciplinary team includes physicians, nurses, dietitians, social workers, and other staff, supporting families through complex pediatric neurological needs.

The practice is recognized for taking time to listen, explain next steps, and coordinate care with compassion. Families preparing for a first visit may find the team-oriented approach especially helpful when a child’s needs involve ongoing evaluation, testing, or support beyond a single appointment.

James S. Harrop, MD, Philadelphia#7

James S. Harrop, MD

4.754 reviews
1101 Chestnut St Fl 10, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Spinal tumor consultationsComplex spine conditions

James S. Harrop, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon whose work includes complex spine conditions, spinal tumors, cervical fusion, tethered cord syndrome and muscle biopsy. His approach is marked by careful discussion, a willingness to investigate difficult cases and attention to helping patients understand the reasoning behind treatment.

Patients seeking consultation for spinal or neuromuscular concerns may value his calm manner and detailed explanations. The practice uses an appointment-based model, and planning ahead is sensible for specialist consultations.

ENearby option
#8

Evans James J MD

5.019 reviews
909 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Hydrocephalus and shunt consultations

James J. Evans, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon whose work includes hydrocephalus, pituitary tumors and other complex cranial conditions. His care is supported by a coordinated team that helps organize treatment before and after surgery while keeping families informed.

A patient, compassionate manner is central to the practice. Consultations allow time for questions, and explanations are designed to make serious diagnoses and treatment plans easier to understand. Patients and families facing shunt placement, pituitary surgery or a difficult neurological diagnosis may appreciate the combination of surgical skill, communication and continuity.

PNearby option
#9

Pascal M. Jabbour, MD

5.015 reviews
1101 Chestnut St Fl 10, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Patients seeking vascular neurosurgical careFamilies navigating aneurysm treatment

Pascal M. Jabbour, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon with a focus on complex neurovascular care. His clinical work includes treatment of brain aneurysms, including procedures involving stents, flow diversion, coils and pipelines when clinically appropriate.

A calm, compassionate manner is a defining part of the care experience. He is described as responsive to questions, attentive during recovery and clear when discussing difficult diagnoses and treatment decisions. That combination can be especially valuable for patients and families facing an urgent or highly stressful neurosurgical situation. Consultations and follow-up visits should be arranged in advance, with the relevant imaging and medical history ready for discussion.

DNearby option
#10

Dr. Amer F. Samdani, MD

4.918 reviews
3551 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19140, United States
Best suited to
Pediatric scoliosis consultationsSpinal fusion discussions

Dr. Amer F. Samdani, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon focused on complex pediatric and spinal care. His work includes spinal fusion, vertebral body tethering and treatment planning for children with scoliosis and other significant spinal conditions.

The practice is marked by a caring, respectful approach and close attention to families throughout treatment. Parents may value the combination of specialized surgical knowledge, patient explanations and a team that remains engaged across the care process. It is a fitting option for families seeking a pediatric spine consultation or discussing corrective surgery.

Kevin D. Judy, MD, Philadelphia#11

Kevin D. Judy, MD

4.818 reviews
1101 Chestnut St Fl 10, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Brain tumor consultations

Kevin D. Judy, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon with experience in brain tumors, cysts, lesions and pituitary conditions. His care style is notably direct and attentive, with clear instructions for patients and families before and after surgery.

The office places emphasis on communication, including practical coordination around appointments and questions. That combination of straightforward guidance and personal attention can be valuable when a diagnosis involves a brain biopsy, pressure from a cyst or a pituitary tumor requiring specialist evaluation.

FNearby option
#12

Farrell Christopher MD

4.817 reviews
909 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Complex neurosurgical consultationsChiari-related evaluations

Christopher J. Farrell, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon whose consultations emphasize careful listening, understandable explanations and a full review of the available imaging. His work includes complex spinal and cranial conditions, with particular relevance for patients seeking evaluation of Chiari-related concerns and other difficult diagnoses.

The office takes a considerate, non-judgmental approach and gives attention to both physical symptoms and the emotional strain of long-term illness. Patients looking for a detailed specialist assessment may value the willingness to explain images directly and discuss longer-term treatment options.

DNearby option
#13

Dr. William C. Welch, MD

4.566 reviews
801 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Tarlov cyst consultationsLumbar nerve decompression

Dr. William C. Welch, MD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon with particular expertise in complex spinal pain and nerve-related conditions, including Tarlov cysts and lumbar nerve decompression. His approach emphasizes careful evaluation before recommending surgery, especially when symptoms have multiple possible causes.

Patients may appreciate the team’s thorough explanations, compassion and attention to difficult cases. The practice is well suited to people seeking a specialist opinion for persistent pain, mobility limits or an unusual spinal diagnosis.

James M. Schuster, MD, PhD, Philadelphia#14

James M. Schuster, MD, PhD

4.715 reviews
3737 Market Street Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
Best suited to
Patients weighing spine surgery

James M. Schuster, MD, PhD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon treating a wide range of spine and cranial conditions. His surgical work includes procedures such as cervical fusion, lumbar decompression, laminectomy, craniotomy and treatment of subdural hematoma.

The practice stands out for pairing technical expertise with a down-to-earth, reassuring manner. Explanations are direct, care is organized from consultation through follow-up, and treatment decisions are presented with attention to both conservative options and surgery when needed. Patients dealing with spinal stenosis, weakness, radiculopathy or complex neurological conditions may find that balanced approach particularly useful.

Jack Jallo, MD, PhD, Philadelphia#15

Jack Jallo, MD, PhD

4.429 reviews
1101 Chestnut St Fl 10, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Best suited to
Complex spine-surgery consultations

Jack Jallo, MD, PhD is a Philadelphia neurosurgeon handling complex spine and neurological conditions. His consultations are known for clear discussions of imaging, surgical options and risk factors, giving patients a concrete framework for deciding whether an operation is appropriate.

The practice may be a strong fit for people considering cervical or lumbar surgery, particularly when the case requires a careful assessment of likely benefit rather than an automatic recommendation. Appointments are recommended ahead of time, and bringing complete imaging and prior treatment records can make the consultation more productive.

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviewsBest suited to
#1John Y. K. Lee, MD, MSCE 4.9129—
#2Stavropoula I. Tjoumakaris, MD 5.023Cerebrovascular consultations
#3Jon J.W. Yoon, MD, MSc 4.770Cervical or lumbar surgery consultations
#4Chengyuan Wu, MD 4.928Epilepsy-surgery consultations
#5Ashwini D. Sharan, MD 4.928Seizure treatment consultations
#6St. Christopher's Pediatric Associates Neurology 4.755Children needing neurological care
#7James S. Harrop, MD 4.754Spinal tumor consultations
#8Evans James J MD 5.019Hydrocephalus and shunt consultations
#9Pascal M. Jabbour, MD 5.015Patients seeking vascular neurosurgical care
#10Dr. Amer F. Samdani, MD 4.918Pediatric scoliosis consultations
#11Kevin D. Judy, MD 4.818Brain tumor consultations
#12Farrell Christopher MD 4.817Complex neurosurgical consultations
#13Dr. William C. Welch, MD 4.566Tarlov cyst consultations
#14James M. Schuster, MD, PhD 4.715Patients weighing spine surgery
#15Jack Jallo, MD, PhD 4.429Complex spine-surgery consultations

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Mapping neurosurgeons in Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers specialist options across several neurosurgical needs, with particular variety in spine consultations and second opinions. Other profiles focus on epilepsy surgery, aneurysm and AVM care, hydrocephalus, spinal tumors, or less common sources of persistent pain. Use the map to compare travel time with the type of appointment required. For complex or time-sensitive concerns, confirm the correct office, referral pathway, records policy, and earliest suitable consultation before traveling.

What each one offers

  • Cervical and lumbar consultationsUseful for discussing possible surgery or treatment options involving the cervical or lumbar spine.
  • Spine second opinionsA focused option when you want another perspective on a proposed procedure or difficult spinal diagnosis.
  • Complex spine conditionsSome specialists address complicated spinal cases, including tumor-related concerns and persistent symptoms.
  • Nerve decompressionConsultations may cover lumbar nerve decompression when pain, weakness, or nerve compression requires review.
  • Epilepsy surgerySpecialist appointments are available for seizure treatment planning and epilepsy-surgery consultations.
  • Cerebrovascular careCerebrovascular consultations can include aneurysm and AVM care.
  • Hydrocephalus and shuntsSome neurosurgical consultations focus on hydrocephalus and shunt-related questions.
  • Spinal cord stimulationAsk about discussions of spinal cord stimulation when persistent pain has not improved with other approaches.

How to compare neurosurgeons in Philadelphia

  1. Match the surgeon’s specialty to your diagnosis, imaging, referral, or main symptom.
  2. Ask whether the appointment is appropriate for a first consultation or a second opinion.
  3. Bring imaging discs, reports, medication details, previous treatment notes, and referral paperwork.
  4. Confirm whether the office reviews complex cases before scheduling a full consultation.
  5. Ask about expected waiting time when symptoms or treatment decisions are time-sensitive.
  6. Prepare a short list of symptoms, prior procedures, and questions about alternatives.

Your questions answered

Who should I consider for a spine second opinion?

Jon J.W. Yoon, MD, MSc is suited to cervical or lumbar surgery consultations, spine second opinions, and patients who want thorough explanations. James S. Harrop, MD also fits difficult or complex spine cases. Bring your imaging and prior treatment records.

Which neurosurgeon handles spinal tumors or complex spine conditions?

James S. Harrop, MD is associated with spinal tumor consultations, complex spine conditions, and second opinions for difficult cases. Confirm that the office accepts your specific diagnosis and ask which imaging, pathology, or referral documents are needed.

Where can I discuss epilepsy surgery or seizure treatment?

Chengyuan Wu, MD is suited to epilepsy-surgery consultations, while Ashwini D. Sharan, MD is associated with seizure treatment consultations. Ask whether your case requires a particular referral, testing pathway, or multidisciplinary review.

Can a neurosurgeon review persistent spinal pain?

Dr. William C. Welch, MD is suited to consultations involving persistent spinal pain, Tarlov cysts, and lumbar nerve decompression. A consultation can help clarify whether further imaging, conservative treatment, decompression, or another specialist opinion is appropriate.

What should I confirm before booking?

Confirm that the surgeon treats your condition, whether a referral is required, and which records must be sent beforehand. Ask about the earliest appropriate appointment and whether the visit is intended for diagnosis, surgical planning, or a second opinion.

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