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Rafael J. Tamargo

Rafael J. Tamargo, MD

Neurosurgery

Vascular Neurosurgery

Accepting New Patients
4.8 of 5 stars76 ratings, 31 reviews

Highlights

Languages

  • Spanish
  • English

Gender

Male

Johns Hopkins Affiliations:

  • Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Faculty

About Rafael J. Tamargo

Physician’s Office Phone

410-614-1533

Professional Titles

  • Walter E. Dandy Professor of Neurosurgery
  • Director, Division of Cerebrovascular Neurosurgery
  • Vice-Chairman, Department of Neurosurgery
  • Neurosurgical Co-Director, Neurosciences Critical Care Unit

Primary Academic Title

Professor of Neurological Surgery

Background

Dr. Tamargo specializes in the treatment of aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), and cavernous malformations of the brain and spinal cord in both adults and children.

Dr. Tamargo specializes in revascularization procedures for moyamoya disease. For this condition, Dr. Tamargo performs either a microsurgical encephaloduroarteriomyosynangiosis (EDAMS) or a microsurgical extracranial-to-intracranial artery bypass.

Dr. Tamargo also specializes in the treatment of acoustic neuromas (vestibular schwannomas).

A recipient of numerous honors and awards, some of Dr. Tamargo's most recent accolades include the Neurosurgery Faculty Teaching Award and the Hopkins Richard S. Ross Clinician Scientist Award.

Recent News Articles and Media Coverage

Additional Academic Titles

Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

Lab Website

Vascular Neurology Lab - Lab Website

  • Vascular research led by Rafael Tamargo, M.D., the Walter E. Dandy Professor of Neurosurgery, explores treatment of aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, cavernous malformations, and arteriovenous fistulas of the brain and spinal cord. Basic science research has focused on endothelial cell-leukocyte interactions (inflammation) after subarachnoid hemorrhage and identifying drugs that might inhibit this inflammatory response as well as the narrowing of blood vessels.

Selected Publications

  • Kanagalingam, S., P. Gailloud, R. J. Tamargo, P. S. Subramanian, and N. R. Miller. Visual sequelae after consensus-based treatment of ophthalmic artery segment aneurysms: The Johns Hopkins Experience. Journal of Neuro-Ophthalmology 32: 27-32, 2012.

    Wicks, Robert T., G. Pradilla, S. M. Raza, U. Hadelsburg, A. C. Coon, J. Huang, and R. J. Tamargo. Impact of changes in intraoperative somatosensory evoked potentials on stroke rates after clipping of intracranial aneurysms. Neurosurgery 70: 1114-1124, May 2012.

    Starmer, H. M., S. R. Best, Y. Agrawal, W. W. Chien, A. T. Hilllel, H. W. Francis, R. J. Tamargo, and L. M. Akst. Prevalence, characteristics, and management of swallowing Tamargo CV - 1 5 disorders following cerebellopontine angle surgery. Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery 146: 419-425, 2012.

    Pradilla, G., T. Garzon-Muvdi, J. J. Ruzevick, M. Bender, L. Edwards, E. N. Momin, R. C. Thompson, and R. J. Tamargo. Systemic L-citrulline prevents cerebral vasospasm in haptoglobin 2-2 transgenic mice after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Neurosurgery 70: 747-757, March 2012.

    Colby, G. P., A. R. Paul, M. G. Radvany, D. Gandhi, P. Gailloud, J. Huang, R. J. Tamargo, and A. L. Coon. A single center comparison of coiling versus stent assisted coiling in 90 consecutive paraophthalmic region aneurysms. J Neurointerv Surg 4: 116-120, March 2012.

    Coon, A. L., A. R. Paul, G. P. Colby, L. Lin, G. Pradilla, J. Huang, and R. J. Tamargo. Comparison of tertiary-center aneurysm location frequencies in 400 consecutive cases: Decreasing incidence of posterior communicating artery region aneurysms. Surgical Neurology International 2(4): 152, July-August 2011.


    Shan, X., I. Hamasaki, J. Tian, H. S. Ying, R. J. Tamargo, and D. S. Zee. Vertical alignment in monkeys with unilateral IV section: effects of prolonged monocular patching and trigeminal deafferentation. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 1233: 7884, 2011.

    Rivas, A., K. D. Boahene, H. C. Bravo, M. Tan, R. J. Tamargo, and H. W. Francis. A model for early prediction of facial nerve recovery after vestibular schwannoma surgery. Otol Neurotol. 32(5): 826-833, July 2011.

    Walker, M. F., J. Tian, X. Shan, R. J. Tamargo, H. Ying, and D. S. Zee. The cerebellar nodulus/uvula integrates otolith signals for the translational vestibulo-ocular reflex. PLoS ONE 5(11): e13981, 2010.

    Paul, A. R., G. P. Colby, M. R. Radvany, J. Huang, R. J. Tamargo, and A. L. Coon. Femoral access in 100 consecutive subarachnoid hemorrhage patients: The craniotomy of endovascular neurosurgery. BMC Research Notes. 3: 285, 2010.

    Alvernia, J. E., G. Pradilla, P. Mertens, G. Lanzino, and R. J. Tamargo. Latex injection of cadaver heads: Technical note. Neurosurgery / Operative Neurosurgery Supplement 2 67: 362-367, 2010.

Honors

  • Harold Lamport Research Scholar Award for Involvement of the Haptoglobin Gene Locus in the Formation of Extracranial Aneurysms (senior author and sponsor of Jacob Ruzevick), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 12/1/12
  • Paul Ehrlich Research Award (senior author and sponsor of Eric N. Momin) 32nd Young Investigator's Day Award, Vernon B. Mountcastle Auditorium, Preclinical Teaching Building, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 4/1/09
  • Mordecai Y. T. Globus New Investigator Award for Stroke Abstract (senior author and sponsor of Dr. Michael T. Froehler), International Stroke Conference 2009, San Diego, California, 2/1/09
  • Professional Achievement Recognition Transforming Influences The Johns Hopkins Campaign: Knowledge for the World Gala Dinner, Ralph S. O'Connor Recreation Center, Johns Hopkins University Homewood Campus, 10/1/06
  • Walter E. Dandy, M.D., Professorship/Chair, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 11/1/04
  • Walter E Dandy, M.D., Guest Lecturer, Department of Neurosurgery Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 11/1/04
  • Galbraith Award for Best Abstract Submission by a Resident on Cerebrovascular Disease (senior author and sponsor of Dr. Richard E. Clatterbuck), 52nd Annual Meeting of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 9/1/02

Memberships

  • American Academy of Neurological Surgery (AAcNS)
  • Society of Neurological Surgeons (SNS)
  • Neurosurgical Society of America (NSA)
  • American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS)
  • Congress of neurological Surgeons (CNS)

Locations

  1. Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center
    • 601 North Caroline Street, Floor 5, Baltimore, MD 21287

    Expertise

    Education

    Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

    Residency, Neurological Surgery, 1991

    Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

    Fellowship, Neurological Surgery, 1988

    Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

    Residency, Neurological Surgery, 1987

    Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons

    Medical Education, Medicine, MD, 1984

    Board Certifications

    Neurological Surgery

    American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1995

    Neurological Surgery

    American Board of Neurological Surgery, 1995

    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

    4.8 out of 5

    76 ratings, 31 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 4.8 out of 5 stars
    Provider Listened Carefully
    Average provider Provider Listened Carefully rating 4.7 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 4.9 out of 5 stars
    Provider Showed Respect
    Average provider Provider Showed Respect rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
    Provider Spent Enough Time
    Average provider Provider Spent Enough Time rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
    Search reviews
      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/31/2025

      This was the 4th Neurosurgeon I consulted regarding my recently diagnosed bilateral internal carotid artery aneurysms. He was knowledgeable, took the time toThoroughly answer my questions and I will be back for a craniotomy in upcoming months. Fully trust him.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/29/2025

      I have been seeing Dr. Tamargo for since I was a kid. I absolutely would recommend him time and time again. He is the best neurologist.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/22/2025

      Dr. Tamargo is excellent.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/22/2025

      I'm relieved that I'm in such good hands!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 1/15/2025

      Dr was very kind and thorough

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 12/9/2024

      He reassured me that he was going to help me get better

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 11/15/2024

      Dr Tamargo is excellent. This is quite scary for all of us and he put us at ease. We all feel confident in his expertise and care

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 11/13/2024

      Dr. Tamargo is the best!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 11/13/2024

      Dr. Tamargo was wonderful. He spent a lot of time answering my questions and explaining things to me. He was very knowlegeable and caring.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 11/13/2024

      Wonderful

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 11/8/2024

      Dr. TAMARGO inspires confidence and trust that your health are in the best hands available.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 11/4/2024

      This was my first ever appointment with Dr Tamargo. I found him to be pleasant, personable, focused, informative, and professional. He was inquisitive about details of my medical history and willing to both talk and listen about my questions and concerns. His explanations were thorough and complete even in addressing the difficult questions of outcome and survivability. He took his time with me and I did not feel rushed.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/30/2024

      Dr. Tamargo is kind and wonderful. Most of all my neurology introduced me that he is one of the best neurosurgeon so I completely trusted him. Also surgery was successful. I thank to Dr. Tamargo.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/23/2024

      He was very concerned about my issue. He was also very honest and direct about the results on my MRA. He then asked that I get a CTA to confirm the first test. I was very impressed with this visit, especially since it was my first.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/21/2024

      I was amazed at prompt and how quick Dr Tamargo assistant responded back to me.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 10/4/2024

      Excellent , could not have had a better doctor to handle problem [ ] and follow -up appointments!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 9/16/2024

      Can not thank God enough for Dr R Tamargo. We are truly tankful for his services and his team,

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 9/6/2024

      Very good, but not always understanding or patient - 99.99 % of the time he's excellent!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 8/7/2024

      Excellent

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/31/2024

      Dr. Tamargo has been my doctor for many years now and I have always received excellent care!!!!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 7/29/2024

      Exceptional doctor!

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/21/2024

      Excellent knowledge of system.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/17/2024

      Exceptional physician. Easy to speak to and he is clear and thorough when overall health and treatment plans.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/14/2024

      Explained everything so that we understood. Took his time with our family and answered all our questions.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/7/2024

      My Doctor is the best in his field I am blessed to have been taken care by this Doctor and his team. Its because him I am alive today without any pending issues after my surgery.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 6/3/2024

      Dr. Tamargo is very personable, knowledgeable and honest. He provided honest feedback regarding my mother's condition and what could be done to help her. We wish to thank him so much for seeing us and helping us.

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

      Very knowledgeable

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 5/15/2024

      Excellent & I'm truly blessed to have him

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/24/2024

      I have confidence in Dr. Tamargo. He is patient and knowledgeable.

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/17/2024

      Appreciated [ ]'s help getting test orders correctly and getting me scheduled quickly. Dr Tamargo was excellent. He immediately was able to sort through all the information and set my mind at ease. It was great to be able to have access to an expert like Dr Tamargo

      5 out of 5 stars
      Reviewed on 4/1/2024

      Dr. TAMARGO is a great doctor. Saved my life.