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Nick Theodore

Nick Theodore, MD

Spine Surgery

Neurosurgery

Accepting New Patients
Johns Hopkins Affiliations:
  • Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Faculty

Languages

  • Greek
  • English

14 Insurances Accepted

View all

Gender

Male

About Nick Theodore

Physician’s Office Phone

443-287-4934

Professional Titles

  • Director, Neurosurgical Spine Center
  • Donlin M. Long Professor

Primary Academic Title

Professor of Neurological Surgery

Background

Nicholas Theodore, M.D., director of the Johns Hopkins Neurosurgical Spine Center, is a nationally recognized expert in brain and spinal cord injury, minimally invasive spine surgeries and robotics. He earned a medical degree at  Georgetown University School of Medicine and completed both a residency in neurosurgery and a fellowship in spinal surgery at the Barrow Neurological Institute.

As an award-winning teacher and researcher, Dr. Theodore has written or co-authored 30 book chapters, over 180 peer-reviewed journal articles and is co-holder of 10 patents for medical devices and procedures. His research focuses on trauma, spinal cord injuries, robotics and developing an understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of spinal diseases.

Dr. Theodore treats patients with a variety of spinal disorders including, trauma, Chiari malformations, spinal deformities, degenerative spine conditions and spinal cord tumors. He sees patients at both the Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center and the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center.

Recent News Articles and Media Coverage

Additional Academic Titles

Professor of Pediatrics, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery

Lab Website

HEPIUS Innovation Lab - Lab Website

  • Named after the Greek god of medicine and healing, the HEPIUS team unites neurosurgeons, biomedical engineers, scientists, radiologists and other physicians to treat and diagnose spinal cord injuries.

Selected Publications

  • Kalb S, Zaidi HA, Ribas-Nijkerk JC, Sindhwani MK, Clark JC, Martirosyan NL, Theodore N: Persistent outpatient hypertension is independently associated with spinal cord dysfunction and imaging characteristics of spinal cord damage among patients with cervical spondylosis. World Neurosurg. 2015;84(2):351-7.

  • Kelly BP, Theodore N: What can standard in vitro biomechanical testing tell us about adjacent segment disease? World Neurosurg. 2015 Dec 15. [Epub ahead of print]

  • Martinez-del-Campo E, Kalb S, Soriano-Baron H, Turner JD, Neal MT, Uschold T, Theodore N: Computed tomography parameters for atlantooccipital dislocation in adult patients: The occipital condyle-C1 interval. J Neurosurg Spine. 2015 Dec 18:1-11. [Epub ahead of print]

  • Martirosyan NL, Kalani MY, Bichard WD, Baaj AA, Gonzalez FL, Preul MC, Theodore N: Cerebrospinal fluid drainage and induced hypertension improve spinal cord perfusion after spinal cord injury in pigs. Neurosurgery. 2015;76(4):467-8; discussion 468-9.

  • Martirosyan NL, Kalani MY, Lemole GM Jr, Spetzler RF, Preul MC, Theodore N: Microsurgical anatomy of the arterial basket of the conus medullaris. J Neurosurg Spine. 2015;22(6):672-6.

  • Mortazavi MM, Verma K, Harmon OA, Griessenauer CJ, Adeeb N, Theodore N, Tubbs RS: The microanatomy of spinal cord injury: A review. Clin Anat. 2015;28(1):27-36.

  • Rodriguez-Martinez NG, Perez-Orribo L, Kalb S, Reyes PM, Newcomb AG, Hughes J, Theodore N, Crawford NR: The role of obesity in the biomechanics and radiological changes of the spine: An in vitro study. J Neurosurg Spine. 2015 Dec 11:1-9. [Epub ahead of print]

  • Rodriguez-Martinez NG, Safavi-Abbasi S, Perez-Orribo L, Newcomb AG, Reyes PM, Loughran G, Theodore N, Crawford NR: Biomechanics of a flexible sublaminar connector in long-segment thoracic fixation. J Neurosurg Spine. 2015 Oct 13:1-7. [Epub ahead of print]

  • Ropper AE, Neal MT, Theodore N: Acute management of traumatic cervical spinal cord injury. Pract Neurol. 2015;15(4):266-72.

  • Safavi-Abbasi S, Komune N, Archer JB, Sun H, Theodore N, James J, Little AS, Nakaji P, Sughrue ME, Rhoton AL, Spetzler RF: Surgical anatomy and utility of pedicled vascularized tissue flaps for multilayered repair of skull base defects. J Neurosurg. 2015 Nov 27:1-12. [Epub ahead of print]

  • Soriano-Baron H, Newcomb AG, Malhotra D, de Tranaltes K, Martinez-del-Campo E, Reyes PM, Crawford NR, Theodore N, Tumialán LM: Biomechanics of nested transforaminal lumbar interbody cages. Neurosurgery. 2016;78(2):297-304.

Honors

  • Mayfield Basic Science Research Award, Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral, AANS/CNS
  • Timothy Harrington Neurological Surgery Teacher of the Year, Barrow Neurological Institute
  • Best Doctors in America, U.S. News & World Report
  • America's Top Doctors, Castle Connolly Medical Ltd.
  • Compassionate Doctor Award, Vitals.com

Memberships

  • AANS/CNS Joint Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves
  • AANS/CNS Joint Section on Neurotrauma
  • American Academy of Neurological Surgery
  • American Association of Neurological Surgeons
  • American College of Surgeons
  • American Medical Association
  • Association of Military Surgeons of the United States
  • Society of Neurological Surgeons
  • Society of University Neurosurgeons

Locations

  1. Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center
    • 301 Mason Lord Drive, Suite 1201, Baltimore, MD 21224

    Expertise

    Education

    Abrazo Central Campus Hospital

    Residency, Neurological Surgery, 2001

    Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

    Residency, Neurosurgery, 1997

    National Institutes of Health

    Fellowship, Neurological Disorders, 1995

    Georgetown University School of Medicine

    Medical Education, MD, 1991

    Georgetown University School of Medicine

    Graduate School, Physiology, MS, 1987

    Insurance

    Johns Hopkins providers accept various commercial health insurance plans. However, they may not be included in all of an insurance company's plans or offerings. This may include Exchange, Medicaid, Medicare, and specific limited benefit plans. Exceptions to participation also exist based on your employer’s benefits package and the provider's location or specialty. Please contact your insurer directly to make sure your doctor is covered by your plan. For more details, please review our Insurance Information.
    Search plans
    • Aetna
    • CareFirst
    • Cigna
    • First Health
    • Geisinger Health Plan
    • HealthSmart/Accel
    • Humana
    • Johns Hopkins Health Plans
    • MultiPlan
    • Pennsylvania's Preferred Health Networks (PPHN)
    • Point Comfort Underwriters
    • Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS)
    • UnitedHealthcare
    • Veteran Affairs Community Care Network (Optum-VACCN)

    Ratings & Reviews

    4.7 out of 5

    171 ratings, 70 reviews

    The Patient Rating score is an average of all responses to physician related questions on the national CG-CAHPS Medical Practice patient experience survey through Press Ganey. Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best score. Comments are also gathered from our CG-CAHPS Medical Practice Survey through Press Ganey and displayed in their entirety. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.

    Overall Rating by Patient
    Average provider Overall Rating by Patient rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
    Provider Listened Carefully
    Average provider Provider Listened Carefully rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
    Provider Explained Things Clearly
    Average provider Provider Explained Things Clearly rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
    Provider Knew Medical History
    Average provider Provider Knew Medical History rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
    Provider Showed Respect
    Average provider Provider Showed Respect rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
    Provider Spent Enough Time
    Average provider Provider Spent Enough Time rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
    Search reviews
      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/29/2024

      The best. Period.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/29/2024

      His assistant was not helpful at all. Kept asking for a test but never responded when I said I didnt know what the test was. Then cancelled my appointment! His secretary was very helpful and put it back on the schedule

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/29/2024

      Excellent: kind, personable, respectful, professional!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/22/2024

      He really listens and it's truly concerned. I feel he is the best doctor for me for his credentials are impeccable.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/8/2024

      Doctor Theodore is one of the best you have and always works with the patient throughout the care for his patients.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/1/2024

      Doctor answered all my questions and gave me an honest opinion about my condition.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/1/2024

      Good questions very professional

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/1/2024

      Excellent provider... Understanding and thorough. Showed real concern for the patient's welfare.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 9/24/2024

      Dr. Theodore is always very professional, caring and concerned.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 9/10/2024

      Dr Theodore is exceptional. He is immediately warm, personable and concerned about the issue at hand. He Is completely focused on the explanations of and treatments for the problem. He immediately established my confidence in his care for my injury.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 9/3/2024

      Good

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 9/3/2024

      Excellent provider

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/27/2024

      Dr. [ ] and Dr. Theodore are literally the best in the world! They did something no one else in Georgia felt comfortable doing. Thank you!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/27/2024

      Very pleased and so glad I changed to Dr. Theodore

      3 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/27/2024

      Dr. Theodore was professional, demonstrated strong expertise within his specialty, and spent a fair amount of time speaking with us. After we advocated for his help, he offered to meet with me in person for a consult and agreed to ordering an updated MRI in an effort to determine if he could possibly help.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/20/2024

      Dr Theodore is wonderful

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/20/2024

      Dr. Nicholas Theodore is the best doctor ever

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/13/2024

      Dr. Theodore provided outstanding care and support. He took time to ensure my pain was identified and even found the need for more care to resolve my pain.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/13/2024

      Dr Theodore is a wonderful surgeon. I appreciate all of the time and care he has shown me throughout the years since my surgery.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/13/2024

      FANTASTIC!He was everything I w texted from a Johns Hopkins physician.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/16/2024

      Dr. Theodore is genuinely concerned about my treatment.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/16/2024

      I really liked Dr. Theodore.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/16/2024

      I found Dr Nicholas Theodore to be an excellent listener and seemed to really care about my issue. Although we are not going to proceed with surgery right away, we're going to do a follow up in 6 months.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/9/2024

      Dr Theodore is the most professional and courteous doctor I have ever met. His bedside manner is like none other I have encountered. He is 190 percent genuine.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/9/2024

      Dr Theodore was very thorough And took time to listen to my concerns. I would highly recommend him.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/9/2024

      They were Super/Great

      4 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/9/2024

      Dr. Theodore was direct, thorough, and easy on o understand.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/9/2024

      Very good

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/2/2024

      He was attentive, thorough in his examination and clear with his advice. He was familiar with the reports I had sent to Hopkins. And he was also warm and kind. Really a special physician.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/2/2024

      Dr Theodore was very compassionate and understanding. He spent the time with me to explain what was needed to be done and details about the surgery. Very nice provider.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/18/2024

      This was my first visit, Dr. Theodore seems to have a very good team, and he answered all my questions and concerns.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/11/2024

      Great bedside manner. Dr Theodore was certain to address my questions and concerns

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/11/2024

      Good

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/11/2024

      Dr. Theodore was very thorough in explaining things and providing a care plan and where we go from here.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 5/7/2024

      Very satisfied with the appointment and results.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 5/7/2024

      A wonderful visit

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 5/7/2024

      Dr. Theodore is extremely personable, knowledgeable, caring and highly experienced.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/30/2024

      Doc Theodore is the best doctor I've ever been to. Excellent surgical skills, great bedside manner, great listener. All the things you need in a great doctor.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/30/2024

      He was not intimidating and he was patient with questions. I did not feel rushed or dismissed and he encouraged me to contact him either via the portal or by phone if anything changes before our next visit.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/30/2024

      Professional, reputable and all I expected after a first visit from a JH medical provider.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/16/2024

      Excellent

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/16/2024

      Professional and personable

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/16/2024

      Both Dr and his assistant was very nice. Explained MRI and what everything was and how it worked, what was going on in my back

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/16/2024

      Dr. Theodore was friendly and informative.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/9/2024

      I am very pleased with the advise and care I have received from Dr. Theodore at this point. His office was able to get me in on rather short notice, which was a huge relief for me and my family.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/9/2024

      Dr Theodore is very caring and so knowledgeable

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/2/2024

      Very patient with my frequent portal messages

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/2/2024

      I have been injured for 20 years. He fixed a botched surgery that changed my life. I couldn't walk any longer. When I left Dr. T's care, I was walking. Dr. Theodore is the best spine surgeon I've seen.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 3/26/2024

      Dr. Theodore has great bedside manners and very thorough

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 3/19/2024

      Professional,intelligent,respectful a true DOCTOR who knows his field of expertise! I have recommended him to many, as well as Johns Hopkins healthcare!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 3/12/2024

      Dr. Theodore has my complete trust--a premiere board-certified neurosurgeon and head of department, who performed my cervical decompression surgery [ ] months ago. I requested to see him for a different issue. He takes the time to fully investigate, evaluate the issue enabled by imaging and experience. He explained his findings and care plan thoroughly.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 3/5/2024

      He talks like a family. Takes time and listens to me very well.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 3/5/2024

      Dr Theodore appears to combine the pretty unique combination of outstanding clinical skills, surgical skills, professionalism and amazing bedside manner!!! Thanks Dr Theordore

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 3/5/2024

      Excellent

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/27/2024

      Very kind and with calming energy

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/26/2024

      Very professional. Well done

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/20/2024

      Dr Theodore is an amazing man. He always listens and takes what I say under consideration. I can never repay him for what he has done for my health.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/20/2024

      Dr. Theodore was caring, compassionate and made me feel at ease about my surgery. Excellent patient care skills.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/20/2024

      Very professional

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/20/2024

      He's excellent

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/13/2024

      Very good provider

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/6/2024

      World class surgeon who deeply cares about the ultimate outcome of his work.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 2/6/2024

      Dr.Theodore possesses an outstanding bedside manner that made me feel relaxed and confident in his abilities to get me well again.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/30/2024

      Very good

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/30/2024

      Dr. Theodore is a great doctor. I found him kind and compassionate and very supportive.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/30/2024

      Just a great and comfortable visit.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/23/2024

      Dr Theodore was everything I wanted in a surgeon

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/16/2024

      Dr. Theodore gave me confidence and hope in that he ordered tests that had never been done in the two and a half years since my surgery. He appreciated that I had been through a lot of stress and medical procedures during that time trying without success to figure out why I have constant headaches and falling episodes. I am grateful to him for listening to me and considering new options.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/16/2024

      Great visit with Dr Theodore, he is excellent in getting to the point, he listens and his recommendations are clearly explained. Excellent bed side manner. One of the best doctors I have ever had.