Joshua Ryan, MD Spine Surgeon

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Dr. Ryan is a highly trained board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in both cranial and spinal procedures. He started his journey at North Carolina State University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences and Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry. As a double major, he graduated at the top of his class as valedictorian. He also received Minors in both Genetics and English. While at NC State, Dr. Ryan had the pleasure of participating in a study abroad program at The University of Oxford with a focus on British Art & Literature. Dr. Ryan obtained his medical degree from The University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill. Upon finishing medical school, he then matched at one of the top neurosurgery programs in the country and relocated to our Nation’s Capitol. Dr. Ryan completed his internship and residency in Neurological Surgery at the respected Georgetown University Hospital located in the heart of Washington, DC. It was here that Dr. Ryan underwent extensive neurosurgical training in all areas of spinal & cranial surgery. He also worked directly with pioneers in the field to master minimally-invasive spine surgery techniques that are now standard and being taught in programs around the country. Minimally-invasive spine surgery utilizes natural tissue planes to decrease disruption of the natural anatomical structures. This includes muscle-splitting approaches with tubular dilators for decompressions (for spinal stenosis, disc herniation, etc.) It also includes lateral lumbar fusions, anterior lumbar fusions, and percutaneous posterior instrumentation. These approaches decrease blood loss, postoperative pain, and length of stay in the hospital. Dr. Ryan uses a patient-specific approach to deciding a treatment strategy and uses minimally-invasive approaches when they are appropriate. While Dr. Ryan’s subspecialty expertise is in minimally-invasive spine surgery, the breadth of his clinical skills spans a wide field from complex cranial operations to complex spinal fusions. His clinical approach involves comprehensive evaluation with detailed explanations about the anatomy, disease process, procedures, and treatment plan in a way that is easy for the patient to understand. He takes a non-operative approach when surgery can be avoided and utilizes treatment modalities such as physical therapy and pain management when appropriate.