Best Spine Surgeon in New Jersey | Advanced Spine Care

Spine disorders remain one of the leading causes of disability, chronic pain, and lost mobility in the United States. Whether caused by degenerative changes, trauma, nerve compression, or structural instability, untreated spinal conditions can profoundly affect a patient’s daily function and long-term health. In New Jersey, patients seeking truly exceptional spine care consistently rely on Dr. Alexios Apazidis, MD, an orthopedic spine surgeon known for his precision, advanced surgical expertise, and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.

As part of the multidisciplinary Precision Pain & Spine Institute, Dr. Apazidis has earned a reputation as one of the best spine surgeons in New Jersey, offering minimally invasive spine procedures, complex reconstructive surgeries, and integrated conservative treatments designed to restore mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life.

About Dr. Alexios Apazidis, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
Profile Link: https://njnopain.com/doctors/alexios-apazidis

A highly respected figure in orthopedic and spine medicine, Dr. Apazidis brings decades of specialized training and clinical experience to patients suffering from back and neck disorders. As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship-level expertise, he focuses exclusively on spine surgery; ranging from minimally invasive decompression to complex cervical and lumbar reconstruction.

His approach blends comprehensive diagnostic assessment, targeted conservative care, and evidence-based surgical intervention. Patients appreciate not only his surgical skill but also his compassion, communication, and commitment to achieving long-term outcomes.

Why Dr. Apazidis Is Considered One of New Jersey’s Best Spine Surgeons

In a state with many capable specialists, Dr. Apazidis distinguishes himself through a powerful combination of advanced clinical training, surgical precision, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

1. Mastery of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Modern spine surgery has shifted toward smaller incisions, less muscle disruption, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery. Dr. Apazidis is a recognized expert in these innovative surgical techniques. His procedures often allow patients to walk the same day and return to daily activity earlier than with traditional open approaches.

He specializes in:

• Microdiscectomy
• Minimally invasive lumbar decompression
• Minimally invasive spinal fusion
• Cervical disc replacement
• Lateral and anterior lumbar approaches (XLIF, ALIF)
• Revision spine surgery
• Kyphoplasty for compression fractures

Each surgical plan is customized with a focus on safety, precision, and long-term spinal function.

2. Comprehensive Conservative Treatment Before Considering Surgery

Although he is a surgical expert, Dr. Apazidis believes surgery should be a last step; not the first. Most patients begin with non-invasive treatments unless there is a neurological emergency.

He works closely with board-certified pain specialists, chiropractors, neurologists, and physical therapists, ensuring every non-surgical option is fully explored.

Collaborative Team Includes:

Pain Management Physicians:

• Dr. Wael Elkholy, MD
• Dr. Ashraf Sakr, MD
• Dr. Douglas Pitchford, MD
  
   

Chiropractors:

• Dr. Edward Sofo, DC
• Dr. Patrick Nierva, DC
• Dr. Fouad Karam, DC
• Dr. Omerkian Baksh, DC
• Dr. Erick Geleta, DC
• Dr. Je Vonna Hopkins, DC
• Dr. Isaac Kebabjian, DC
  
   

Physical Therapy Team:

• Aldou Cinco, PT
• Edmund Benaojan, PT
• Carlos Santos, PT
• Ryan Mangubat, PT
• Allyn Sison, PT

Neurology:

• Dr. Saima Usmani, MD

This integrated model provides patients with a seamless treatment experience, reducing delays and improving functional outcomes.

3. Expertise in Treating Complex and High-Risk Spine Disorders

Dr. Apazidis frequently evaluates patients who have failed prior treatments or whose conditions require surgical interventions only a highly specialized surgeon can perform.

Conditions commonly treated include:

Herniated Cervical and Lumbar Discs

Disc herniation compresses nerves, causing sciatica, arm pain, weakness, and numbness. Using MRI correlation and precise neurological evaluation, Dr. Apazidis identifies the exact source of pain and determines whether surgery is required.

Spinal Stenosis

Narrowing of the spinal canal can cause leg heaviness, difficulty walking, and severe pain. Minimally invasive decompression removes pressure while preserving healthy tissue.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Chronic disc degeneration can produce disabling pain. Treatments may include biological therapy, image-guided injections, or surgical reconstruction.

Spondylolisthesis

A condition where one vertebra slides over another, often requiring stabilization through minimally invasive fusion.

Cervical Myelopathy

Compression of the spinal cord can lead to difficulty with balance, hand function, or gait. Early surgical intervention is crucial, and Dr. Apazidis is highly experienced in these delicate procedures.

Spine Fractures

Traumatic or osteoporotic fractures may require stabilization or kyphoplasty to restore support and reduce pain.

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)

Patients who did not achieve relief from previous surgeries often seek Dr. Apazidis for expert evaluation and corrective care.

Advanced Diagnostic Approach

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful spine treatment. Dr. Apazidis utilizes a combination of cutting-edge imaging and clinical evaluation to build a true understanding of the underlying problem.

Diagnostic tools include:

• MRI
• CT scan
• X-ray
• EMG and nerve conduction studies
• Functional and neurological evaluations
• Pain mapping techniques

His ability to interpret subtle findings and correlate them with physical symptoms is one reason patients trust his judgment.

Treatment Philosophy: Precision, Safety, and Preserving Function

The goal of spine surgery is not simply to reduce pain; it is to restore stability, prevent neurological deterioration, and improve long-term function. Dr. Apazidis combines surgical accuracy with minimally invasive technique to achieve optimal outcomes.

His approach emphasizes:

• Smaller incisions
• Minimal muscle disruption
• Faster recovery
• Avoiding unnecessary fusion
• Preserving motion whenever possible (disc replacement)
• Clear communication with the patient and family

Patients consistently remark on his calm, professional demeanor and the thorough explanations he provides before any procedure.

Signs You Should See a Spine Surgeon Like Dr. Apazidis

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:

Spinal Red Flags

• Weakness in the arms or legs
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Rapidly worsening pain
• Severe balance difficulty
• Numbness spreading into the limbs

Chronic Pain Indicators

• Back or neck pain lasting more than 6 weeks
• Pain radiating down the leg or arm
• Burning or tingling sensations
• Discomfort after sitting or standing for long periods
• Failed response to chiropractic care or physical therapy

When symptoms persist or progress, early surgical evaluation prevents long-term nerve damage.

What Makes Precision Pain & Spine Institute a Leading Center for Spine Care

Dr. Apazidis practices within a multidisciplinary spine and musculoskeletal institute, providing unparalleled access to coordinated care across multiple specialties.

Benefits include:

• On-site diagnostic imaging
• Coordinated referrals
• Integrated pain management and rehabilitation
• Multiple New Jersey locations for convenience
• Personalized treatment plans
• Insurance-friendly practice
• Long-term follow-up and rehabilitation support

This team-based approach ensures continuity and precision from diagnosis through recovery.

Patient-Centered Outcomes: Why Patients Trust Dr. Apazidis

Patients consistently highlight:

• His exceptional bedside manner
• Clear communication
• Thoughtful conservative-first philosophy
• High surgical success rates
• Shorter recovery times
• Personalized treatment plans
• Collaborative team support

His practice reflects the highest standard of orthopedic spinal care available in New Jersey.

FAQs

1. Does Dr. Apazidis perform outpatient spine surgery?

Yes. Many minimally invasive procedures are performed in outpatient facilities, allowing faster recovery and same-day mobility.

2. How do I know if I need spine surgery?

Surgery is recommended only when conservative treatments fail or when neurological compromise requires urgent intervention.

3. What is the recovery time after spine surgery?

Recovery varies by procedure. Many minimally invasive surgeries allow patients to resume light activity within days.

4. Can I continue chiropractic and physical therapy after surgery?

Yes. Most patients benefit from integrated post-operative rehabilitation under guided expertise.

5. Does Dr. Apazidis treat work injuries and auto-accident–related spine conditions?

Absolutely. The clinic specializes in complex injury cases requiring coordinated, multidisciplinary treatment.