OIBortho is a team of highly skilled Board Certified and Fellowship Trained Spinal Surgeons can treat any spine-relation orthopaedic condition or injury.
Ramil S. Bhatnagar, MD
Specializing in Orthopaedic Spine Surgery
Tyler Kreitz, MD
Specializing in Orthopaedic Spine Surgery
Wylie Lopez, MD
Specializing in Orthopaedic Spine Surgery
The Spine Center
Our board-certified, fellowship-trained spine surgeons perform the full spectrum of spine surgery—from minimally invasive outpatient procedures, robotic spine surgery to scoliosis correction, complex revision surgeries, and trauma cases. Trained at the nation’s top spine programs, our surgeons are among the few in the region who provide spinal trauma and spinal cord injury call coverage, managing some of the most complex spine cases.
In collaboration with our pain management specialists, we offer a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to both operative and non-operative spine care, ensuring each patient receives tailored, evidence-based treatment.
Back and neck pain can impact every part of daily life. Whether your symptoms stem from an injury, disc issue, or chronic condition, getting expert care early can make a lasting difference.
OIBOrtho is home to a team of board-certified, fellowship-trained spine surgeons who treat the full spectrum of spinal conditions, from neck and back pain to complex reconstructive procedures.Â
With convenient locations across New Jersey, including Edison, Red Bank, Freehold, Wall, Brick, Toms River, Lacey, and Manahawkin, our specialists deliver advanced spine care close to home.
Common Spine Conditions
Our spine team evaluates and treats a broad range of neck and back conditions, including:
Cervical Spine (Neck):
- Herniated discs and radiculopathy
- Cervical stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Myelopathy
- Nerve compression
Thoracic and Lumbar Spine (Mid and Lower Back):
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Sciatica
- Spondylolisthesis
- Spinal fractures and trauma
- Osteoarthritis of the spine
- Scoliosis and spinal deformities
- Failed back surgery syndrome
Surgical Spine Treatment Options
OIBOrtho’s spine surgeons perform a comprehensive range of procedures using modern techniques:
Minimally Invasive & Robotic Spine Surgery
Advanced robotic-assisted technology allows for smaller incisions, reduced muscle disruption, and faster recovery. These procedures are ideal for many cases of disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disease.
Spinal Fusion & Disc Replacement
For patients with instability or severe disc degeneration, spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement may restore proper alignment and movement while relieving chronic pain.
Decompression Procedures
Surgeries like laminectomy, laminotomy, foraminotomy, and microdiscectomy remove pressure from the spinal cord or nerves.
Complex & Revision Spine Surgery
Our team has extensive experience with scoliosis correction, revision of failed spine surgeries, and treatment of spinal deformities and trauma.
Nonsurgical Spine Treatments
Surgery is not always the first step. Many patients improve with conservative treatments and a comprehensive care plan. Non-operative options may include:
- Image-guided spinal injections (epidural steroid, facet, or nerve blocks)
- Physical therapy and exercise-based rehabilitation
- Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications
- Bracing and posture training
- Activity modification and ergonomic guidance
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery from spine surgery is a gradual process that varies by procedure and individual needs. Your surgeon will review detailed post-operative instructions covering wound care, medications, and activity limits.
Physical therapy typically begins after your initial healing phase. Our goal is to help you return safely to your normal activities with lasting relief.
Why Choose Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics?
At OIBOrtho, patients receive care from board-certified leaders in spinal surgery and nonsurgical treatment who bring advanced training and a collaborative philosophy.
Our spine specialists include:
- Dr. Ramil S. Bhatnagar, MD: Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery; Chief of the Division of Spinal Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
- Dr. Tyler Kreitz, MD: Spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted cervical and lumbar procedures.
- Dr. Wylie Lopez, MD: Spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive and disc replacement surgery.
- Dr. Joseph G. Marsicano, MD: Orthopaedic spine surgeon specializing in complex spinal pathology.
Commonly Asked Questions
What Are the Signs It’s Time to See a Spine Specialist?
Persistent back or neck pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter medication can signal a deeper issue. Other warning signs include pain radiating down the arms or legs, tingling, numbness, weakness, or loss of coordination. Difficulty standing, walking, or performing daily activities may also indicate that it’s time to consult a spine specialist for evaluation and imaging.
How Can I Prevent Future Back or Neck Problems After Treatment?
Maintaining core strength, practicing good posture, avoiding prolonged sitting, and using ergonomic support while working or driving can all help protect your spine. Regular exercise and stretching keep muscles balanced and reduce the risk of future injury.
When Should I Consider Getting an MRI for Back or Neck Pain?
An MRI may be recommended if symptoms persist for several weeks despite conservative care or if there are signs of nerve involvement, such as numbness, tingling, or loss of strength. Imaging helps your doctor identify structural problems like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
What Are the Risks or Complications of Spine Surgery?
While most spine surgeries are safe and effective, potential risks can include infection, bleeding, nerve irritation, or incomplete symptom relief. Choosing an experienced, fellowship-trained spine surgeon significantly reduces these risks and improves surgical outcomes.
How Soon Can I Return to Work or Sports After Spine Surgery?
Return-to-activity timelines vary by procedure and individual progress. Many patients resume light work within a few weeks after minimally invasive surgery, while athletes or manual laborers may need several months before safely returning to full activity. Your surgeon and physical therapist will guide you based on your recovery milestones.
Find an Orthopaedic Physician
Relief from chronic back or neck pain starts with the right diagnosis. Schedule your consultation with the spine care team at Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics by calling 732-800-9000 today.
With multiple locations throughout Edison, Red Bank, Freehold, Wall, Brick, Toms River, Lacey, and Manahawkin, expert spine care is always within reach in Central and South New Jersey.